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Weather service warns of light snow conditions

Location: News

Weather service warns of light snow conditions

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of disruptive snowfall which is expected over the Cape Winelands, Cederberg, Stellenbosch, Paarl, Central and Little Karoo mountains of the Western Cape as well as the southern high ground of Namakwa District on Monday.

The closure of the following mountain passes is likely: Swartberg, Franschhoek, Hex River, Ouberg and Katbakkies.

“Snowfall accumulation of between 5-10 cm is expected, with possible low-level or ground snowfall especially over the southern high ground of the Northern Cape and the Cape Winelands and Central Karoo municipalities (Western Cape). There is also a possibility of 20 cm accumulation of snowfall over the Matroosberg mountain range,” SAWS said on Sunday.

Due to the adverse weather conditions, loss of vulnerable livestock and crops can be expected as well as risk of hypothermia in humans due to the very cold conditions.

Traffic disruptions and vehicle accidents are highly likely due to icy roads, said the service. 

“Disruption to services is also possible. Some communities may be temporarily inaccessible.

“The possibility of snowfall over Ubuntu Local Municipality in the Northern Cape, could result in the isolated loss of vulnerable livestock and crops.”

SAWS said the light snow may lead to icy roads and non-major passes being closed for a short time.

“KwaZulu-Natal can expect scattered to widespread showers and thunder showers. This will result in disruptive rain leading to localised flooding in the south-eastern parts of the province. The rain accumulation expected is around 20 to 50 mm.

“Localised flooding of susceptible settlements, both formal and informal, roads, low lying areas and low bridges is possible. Major roads could be affected but can be used with increased travel time.

“Poor driving conditions on dirt roads. Minor vehicle accidents are possible, due to poor visibility and slippery roads. Localised mudslides, rockfall and soil erosion is possible,” SAWS said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 10:40

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Government warns of anticipated drop in temperatures with possible snowfall

Location: News

Government warns of anticipated drop in temperatures with possible snowfall

Acting Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has urged South Africans to exercise caution in light of the South African Weather Service's (SAWS) alert regarding expected drops in temperature and possible snowfall. 

This comes after parts of the country were hit by heavy snowfall, affecting Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape over the past weekend.

Heavy snowfall caused havoc on the N3 toll route and other regional roads, stranding scores of motorists, including truck drivers and bus commuters and causing loss of life. 

Meanwhile, according to the SAWS, light snow can be expected over the Drakensberg this weekend.

The forecasters said weather conditions are expected to change significantly with predictions of cooling over the escarpment regions of South Africa, extending from the Western Cape up to the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

Indicators also show that daytime temperatures are likely to start cooling down over the Western Cape from Sunday, 29 September 2024, reaching the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal region by Monday, 30 September 2024. 

In a statement released by the SAWS, the expected snowfall will follow a similar trend, starting in the Western Cape early on Sunday morning, 29 September 2024 and spreading eastward towards KwaZulu-Natal Monday morning, 30 September 2024. 

“Snowfall is expected to clear up in the Western Cape and western parts of the Eastern Cape by Monday evening.”

However, snowfall will persist on Tuesday, 1 October 2024, over the eastern parts of Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal.

According to the department, the cold front will also bring rain and showers to the Western Cape and surrounding areas.

“Temperatures are set to drop significantly, particularly in higher regions, with some areas experiencing highs below 10°C on Monday. 

“Strong winds and large ocean swells are anticipated along the South Coast. Rainfall is expected to be around 30 mm from September 29 to October 1, with light snowfall in high areas of the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and southern KwaZulu-Natal.” 

The Acting CoGTA Minister has since reiterated the SAWS’ precautions for citizens to listen to warnings on the radio or television, stay indoors, dress warmly if going outside, and cover their mouths in extreme cold to protect their lungs.

Kubayi also suggested that people avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and smoking, as this increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. 

She also urged residents and farmers to keep small livestock sheltered from the cold. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:39

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W Cape records lowest HIV prevalence rate in SA

Location: News

W Cape records lowest HIV prevalence rate in SA

Out of the nine provinces in South Africa, the Western Cape had the lowest HIV prevalence (7.4%) in 2022 and second lowest in 2017 (8.6%).

According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), this translates to 540 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the Western Cape, which was a decline from 560 000 PLHIV in 2017.

The information is based on the findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI) for the Western Cape, which was released by the HSRC on Thursday. 

According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the survey showed that in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was higher among those aged 25 to 49 (10.8%) for both females (14.6%) and males (5.8%). 

Meanwhile, HIV prevalence was higher among females (9%) compared to males (5.6%).

“HIV prevalence peaked at 12.9% amongst those aged 35 to 39 in 2022 from 23.4% in 2017 within the same age group. 

“There was a decrease in HIV prevalence in 2022 among all age groups younger than 30 to 34 years compared to 2017, apart from the age groups zero to 14; 15 to 19, and those 50 years and older. 

“The worsening prevalence among those younger than 24 years is deeply concerning, as it shows continued new infections from both horizontal and vertical transmissions,” Zuma said.

SAnews reported last week that Mpumalanga now has the highest HIV prevalence at 17.4% in 2022, which translates to an estimated 890 000 (PLHIV) in the province, followed by KwaZulu-Natal.  

READ | Mpumalanga records highest HIV prevalence rate 

Antiretroviral treatment

Antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage in the Western Cape increased to 76.8% in 2022, from 54.4% in 2017. 

This translates to an estimated 360 000 PLHIV in the province receiving ART in 2022.

In 2022, ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lower among those aged 15 to 49 (76.5%) compared to other age groups. 

ART use was also lower among males (75.3%) compared to females (77.1%). 

In addition, ART use was 76.2% amongst respondents who reside in urban areas and 81.4% in the City of Cape Town.

The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and Aids, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.

Viral load suppression (VLS)

The survey further revealed that in 2022, among all provinces, the Western Cape had the seventh highest proportion of PLHIV with VLS (78.4%), having increased from 2017 (54.6%).

Overall, VLS was also lower among males (76%) compared to females (79.7%). 

VLS was also lower among those aged 50 and older (69.4%) compared to other age groups. 

Knowledge of HIV status

The professor expressed concern that PLHIV between 25 and 49 years accounted for the majority of PLHIV in the Western Cape, who were unaware of their HIV status (59.1%); aware but not on ART (64.7%), and on ART but not VLS (66.7%). 

Adolescents and youth aged between 15 and 24 contributed disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 9.5% of all PLHIV.

Regarding the key drivers of the HIV epidemic, Zuma noted that in the Western Cape, there was an increase in the proportion of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24, who reported sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (14%), compared to 2022 (16.3%). 

Sexual debut before the age of 15 among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 in 2022 was higher among males (21.5%) than females (11.3%).

Multiple sexual partners

The survey revealed that in the Western Cape, 6.7% of people aged 15 and older reported having two or more sexual partners in 2022 compared to 7.6% in 2017.

The proportion of people aged 15 and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was two-fold higher among males (8.9%), compared to females (4.4%), and higher among those aged 15 to 24 (19.1%) compared to other age groups.

Condom use 

The survey revealed that 22.1% reported using a condom with their most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 26.6% in 2017, representing a 4.5% decline. 

Condom use with their most recent sexual partner among people who are 15 years and older was higher among those 15 to 24 years (39.9%) and in the urban areas (22.5%), while it was similar by sex.

A higher proportion also reported that they had never or sometimes (81.4%) used a condom with their most recent sexual partner. Only 13.4% reported that they had used condoms almost every time.

Consistency of condom use with their most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 in the province was higher among youth aged 15 to 24 (24%). – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/26/2024 - 12:51

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KZN teams on standby ahead of predicted adverse weather

Location: News

KZN teams on standby ahead of predicted adverse weather

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has announced that highly efficient and dedicated teams are on standby with an expected drop in temperatures later this week, with a possibility of snow.

While the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has not issued an official weather warning, the weather service predicts the possibility of snow over the high lying areas of the Western Cape from 29 September 2024, which will spread into the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal by 30 September 2024.

Addressing a media briefing on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said the Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS) led by South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) comprising of all key role players on the national, provincial, and municipal road networks were putting together a consolidated plan.

“They are identifying areas where joint operations and coordination will be established - covering all notorious roads and areas identified from past experiences. 

“The department's Road Traffic Inspectorate is establishing a satellite centre on top of Van Reenen’s Pass to ensure quick action and road closure to mitigate against people getting trapped in the snow,” the MEC said.

This satellite centre will start operating on Saturday afternoon and operate on a 12-hour shift.

Traffic law enforcement officials are already involved in the coordination of possible road closures and observation of major routes in consultation with the N3 Toll Concession. 

“The focus is on the N3 between Harrismith, Tugela Toll, R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, N2 Ingeli and N3 Mooi River, and others. We wish to indicate that the team will also be responsible for escorting trucks and vehicles to ensure that there is no congestion on the road. 

“However, members of the public and motorists are urged to reschedule or postpone their journeys in anticipation of any eventuality. Prevention is better than cure.

“Motor graders are currently being sharpened to respond with … urgency to remove any snow before accumulating on the road. More than 10 graders will be stationed in identified routes to ensure that our response is faster,” the MEC said.

The province has 21 graders which will be on standby as part of strengthening prevention measures.

“On Wednesday, we interacted with SAWS. They informed us that KwaZulu-Natal will be affected by snowfall from Monday into Tuesday. The areas that are expected to be affected include Ladysmith, Underberg, Drakensberg as well as Giant Castle, and other high-ground area.

“In addition, they emphasised that, in all likelihood, snowfall will stop on Tuesday but will be followed by rainfall in various parts of the province, including Durban and other coastline areas,” Duma said.

The MEC said the provincial government has started engaging with key stakeholders to ensure that everyone works together to avoid any crisis and ensure the safety of road users.

“We have continuous engagements with road freight industry stakeholders such as operators - trucking companies – companies that are managing and supplying drivers.

“The South African National Taxi Council and bus councils, bus and truck associations are key stakeholders as we strengthen our road safety measures. We do not want to leave out port operators and the entire value chain of fast-moving consumer goods,” Duma said.

The provincial government has assigned engineers in consultation with SANRAL to look at the impact of the recent heavy snowfall on the road infrastructure.

“The truck congestion on N3 last weekend compels us to intensify our plans aimed at modernisation and development of rail transport – both freight and passenger.

“Working with the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and other main roleplayers, as KwaZulu-Natal we believe that we must ensure that we deploy wagons to move cargo from road to rail, with a specific focus on certain goods, such as coal.

“In addition, we want to improve rail services in the province so that it could serve as the backbone of public transport while at the same time recognising the huge challenges currently facing commuter rail services in KwaZulu-Natal and throughout the country,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 09/26/2024 - 11:11

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Minister Gwarube commits to stabilising the education system

Location: News

Minister Gwarube commits to stabilising the education system

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube and her deputy, Dr Reginah Mhaule, have committed to take all necessary steps to stabilise the education system given the budgetary constraints affecting provinces.

The Minister said this while addressing the media on developments regarding budget cuts in the education sector, in Pretoria, on Wednesday. 

“The Deputy Minister and I have been in constant engagement with provinces to support them during this challenging fiscal environment. We have committed ourselves to doing everything we can to stabilise the system and have appealed to provinces to retain the basket of posts, in order to not compromise education outcomes,” the Minister said. 

She also moved to appreciate the work that the provinces have been doing around the clock to help the sector get to grips with these challenges. 

“I have witnessed MECs work tirelessly with their provincial departments to protect teaching and learning in our schools.”

Challenges

The briefing comes weeks after several provincial Departments of Education have been vocal about the budgetary pressures they face. 

These, said the Minister, have been years in the making due to the aggressive budget cuts, economic stagnation and fiscal mismanagement which is now set to impact schools.

“These budget pressures are not just numbers on a spreadsheet - they translate into fewer teachers, reduced textbooks, and fewer admin support staff, which means teachers spend more time on admin work, thereby reducing learning and teaching time. In essence, the very fabric of our children’s future is under threat.”

She explained that provinces like the Western Cape have seen the painful decision to reduce the basket of teaching posts for 2025, a move that may result in fewer educators in classrooms. 

“This may mean larger class sizes, reduced individual attention for learners, and ultimately, a risk to the achievement of quality education outcomes.”

She added that unfortunately, other provinces throughout the country are in a similar position with many desperately working to find ways of avoiding having to top slice budgets for key services like textbooks, admin support and scholar transport programmes. 

“We are faced with a pending national crisis, one that affects not just our learners but our teachers, principals, and broader communities.

“It is crucial to understand that this crisis is not confined to one province or one aspect of the education sector. Every province is grappling with these painful choices.”

Provincial education departments will in the next two to three years, find it increasingly difficult to fund their existing basket of posts and existing programmes within the available budget, unless measures are taken proactively to mitigate this risk.

For instance, she said in the 2025/26 financial year, four provincial departments will battle to cover their budgets; in the 2026/27 financial year, five provinces will battle to cover their budgets. In the 2027/28 financial year, seven provinces will not be able to afford their budgets. 

“Several provinces have preserved the same post basket for the past three academic years, despite learner numbers increasing, while other provinces have decreased their posts in the past three years. It is important to note that these have been cuts in posts but not warm bodies. 

“Meaning that no person gets retrenched but rather vacancies are not filled,” she said. 

Increase in learner numbers

Nationally, the Minister highlighted that the number of learners within the education system has increased by approximately 292,820 over the last five years.

Learner/Educator Ratios have also steadily increased across most provinces. 
She explained that an increase in learners' numbers without increasing the post basket, may affect the quality of teaching which may soon be reflected in the performance of the system.

Largely, she added that the financial constraints have had the largest impact on educator provisioning, leading to a steady increase in Learner/Educator Ratios in most provincial education departments.

“Most provincial Education Departments require between R350 million and R3.8 billion [over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework to fully fund their respective basket of posts].

“The numbers are staggering. If we continue down this path, projections indicate that most provincial education departments will not be able to maintain their respective basket of posts,” she said. 

Interventions

In response to this potential crisis, Minister Gwarube said she convened two special meetings of the Council of Education Ministers (CEM). These meetings brought together education MECs from across the country and they conducted a thorough analysis of the budget challenges in each province. 

MECs from each province have compiled provisional provincial reports with sobering results.

“For the first time in a decade, we now have a clearer picture of where the most significant budget pressures lie and how we need to engage treasury in a bid to address the challenges we see.

“As a result, I have requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Finance to discuss the matter further. I am grateful to Minister [Enoch] Godongwana for his cooperation and support on this important matter.

“We are also appreciative of Treasury’s willingness to engage with the Education sector. Ultimately a solution must be found in order for us to protect front line services,” the Minister said. 

Gwarube has also requested a convening of a political 10X10 meeting between the Minister of Finance and the provincial MECs for Finance, as well as herself and the nine MECs of Education. 

“We must work together with all 10 treasuries to unlock additional funds to alleviate the pressures facing the education sector, even if it is for the short term, and to prevent further cuts to teaching posts and critical support services like school nutrition and transport.

“We also need to look at cross-departmental reprioritisation of budgets from departments that have under-performing programmes – ensuring that funding across government is directed to appropriate national priorities,” she said. 

The Minister concluded that while the sector faces significant challenges, “these are not insurmountable. But they require decisive action and an unwavering commitment to putting education first.”

Earlier this month, the Department of Basic Education said that the Minister had held meetings with various international partners to reinforce South Africa's commitment to enhancing the education sector through global collaboration. 

READ | Minister Gwarube in talks to enhance education sector

– SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 11:51

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SA Weather Service forecasts warm week followed by light snow

Location: News

SA Weather Service forecasts warm week followed by light snow

South Africa is set to experience a mix of warm and cool temperatures in the coming days, with a significant drop in temperatures and even light snowfall expected later this month, according to the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

This after the weekend’s freezing temperatures and snowfall in some parts of the country caused havoc on the roads, resulting in one fatality.   

READ | Heavy snowfall on N3 claims life of a 39-year-old woman

Forecaster at the South African Weather Service (SAWS) Lehlogonolo Thobela provided an outlook for the week ahead, highlighting warm conditions across much of the country.

“Today we are expecting just warm temperatures over the central parts, ranging between 26 and 30 degrees Celsius, that’s on average in the Northern Cape province. 

“In Gauteng, the weather will be cooler in the south but warm in the northern areas, with maximum temperatures reaching about 25 degrees in the north and about 24 to 22 degrees over the southern parts,” Thobela said.

The Eastern Cape will experience varied conditions, with cool weather in the northeastern parts but warmer and even hot temperatures in the south. 

“It will be quite cool over most parts of the northeastern parts of the Eastern Cape but warm over most of the province and hot over the southern parts,” Thobela explained.

The Western Cape, meanwhile, will see cooler conditions in the west but warmer weather in the east. 

“Just warm temperatures are expected across the country,” Thobela said.

Looking ahead to Wednesday, Thobela forecasted hot temperatures in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga, with highs of 34 degrees Celsius, and similarly warm to hot conditions in Limpopo. 

“It will be warm over most parts of the country, with maximums between 25 and 30 degrees over the central parts,” he noted. 

He said that cooler weather will persist in the Western Cape, especially along the west coast, where temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 22 degrees.

The heat is set to continue through the week, especially in Limpopo and the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal, with hot conditions predicted for the 26th and 27th of September. 

“It will be hot over most parts of Limpopo on the 26th and 27th,” Thobela said.

Central regions like the Free State, North West, and Gauteng will remain warm during this period.

However, a significant temperature drop is expected later in the month, starting on the 29th of September. 

“It will be cold over the southern parts, and the Western Cape will be very cold, with maximums ranging between 10 and 14 degrees Celsius,” Thobela said. 

The Eastern Cape will remain cool, with colder conditions in the central and southwestern parts.

On the 30th of September, cold conditions will spread to KwaZulu-Natal and parts of the Free State. 

“There is some light snow expected over the highland areas of the Eastern Cape, as well as the southwestern parts of KwaZulu-Natal and the border of Lesotho, between the 30th [of September] and the 1st of October,” Thobela revealed, though he assured that the snowfall would be light.

The cold snap will extend to the escarpment of Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal on the 1st of October, with temperatures starting to recover by the 2nd.

South Africans are advised to prepare for fluctuating temperatures and possible snow in high-lying areas over the next week. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 09/24/2024 - 13:09

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Temps to start recovering in the next few days, says weather service

Location: News

Temps to start recovering in the next few days, says weather service

While warmer weather is expected throughout most of South Africa in the coming days, the south western parts of the country can expect a cold front on Wednesday.

This after the weekend’s freezing temperatures and snowfall in some parts of the country caused havoc on the roads, causing one fatality.  

Forecaster at the South African Weather Service (SAWS) Samkelisiwe Thwala said on Monday rain showers are expected this afternoon over the central and western parts of the Western Cape, spreading to other areas this evening.

“Tomorrow will be mostly partly cloudy for most of the country in the morning. This will clear from the west throughout the day,” Thwala told SAnews.

She said the weather service expected isolated showers in the extreme parts of the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Northern Cape. This will move into the Eastern Cape and Free State and southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

Temperatures will start recovering in the next couple of days. “We are expecting temperatures to be warm in most parts of the country, but still relatively cool over Gauteng and Mpumalanga.”

On Wednesday, however, a cold front will be approaching from the west and showers are expected in the south western parts of South Africa, spreading along the south coast. 

Meanwhile, all roads affected by the recent snowstorm, including the N3 Toll Route, were reopened to traffic last night. These include key routes in Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. 

“The extensive backlog of traffic between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State has been cleared. Motorists are advised to resume their travels on Monday, 23 September 2024. 

“Although the roads are cleared, road users are urged to drive cautiously as some roads remain slippery, and weather conditions limit visibility.

“Government thanks all citizens, emergency services, government entities, humanitarian organisations, and stakeholders for their support during this time,” said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) on Sunday night. 

READ | Tips for safer driving on icy roads

Regrettably, a 39-year-old woman died on Saturday while trapped in the blizzard that engulfed the N3 between Van Reenen’s Pass, connecting KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 17:11

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African leaders meet on Mpox

Location: News

African leaders meet on Mpox

President Cyril Ramaphosa says as the continent tackles Mpox, Africa needs to learn from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We need to ensure equitable distribution of medical countermeasures based on transparent criteria and readiness to initiate vaccination. We ask Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to lead the consultation with member states to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines and other medical countermeasures,” said the President.

He was delivering South Africa’s statement at the African Union Heads of State virtual meeting on Mpox on Sunday.

“We need a finance plan that is evidence-based, with sound forecasting of needs. The Africa CDC mandate on data sharing is the bedrock of global health security. This will help to ensure that public health threats are detected and shared across borders and with other continental and global stakeholders,” said the President.

He said countries would only be able to effectively mobilise and direct funds if supported by reliable data.

“We call on all African countries to make use of this instrumental system that has been created by our own institution. We call for the urgent operationalisation of the Africa Epidemic Fund as the primary vehicle for epidemic response financial management.”

He said as with COVID-19, Africa is still struggling to get the Mpox vaccine and treatment.

The President said the continent needs to manufacture Mpox vaccines in Africa to reduce costs and improve access.

“We must co-develop these medical countermeasures, share intellectual property and ensure technology transfer. In this regard, we welcome the agreement between Africa CDC and Bavarian Nordic to transfer the Mpox vaccine technology to African manufacturers,” he said.

With the financial support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness, the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator, Afreximbank, the European Union and other partners, President Ramaphosa said the continent should be able to start vaccine manufacturing by 2025.

“In the meantime, we appreciate the support from a number of countries to get vaccines in Africa.

“The COVID-19 experience taught us that we need predictable demand and off-take guarantees for the vaccines, medicines and diagnostics manufactured in Africa. African countries should therefore buy vaccines and other health products manufactured in Africa to ensure sustainable manufacturing on our continent.”

He said this could be achieved through the African Pooled Procurement Mechanism.

Surveillance systems must be enhanced and healthcare delivery and infrastructure strengthened.

“We must ensure that frontline health workers have the necessary diagnostic tools, vaccines and antiviral treatments. We need tested public health messages that promote awareness and prevention.

“Beyond the targeted vaccination responses to outbreaks, we should explore the feasibility of continuing vaccinations in high-risk populations. This dual approach will help create a buffer against future outbreaks and protect our most vulnerable communities,” he said.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared Mpox  as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The President commended the fact that Africa CDC had partnered with the WHO, UNICEF and other partners to develop the Mpox continental preparedness and response plan and to build, for the first time in Africa, one Continental Incident Management Team.

The total number of positive cases recorded in South Africa since the outbreak in May this year stands at 25 cases, including three deaths. Twelve of these were reported in Gauteng, 11 reported in KwaZulu-Natal and two in the Western Cape.

Africa CDC has signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215 000 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine.

Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritising local needs across the affected member states. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Mon, 09/23/2024 - 11:17

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Shaping Inclusive Fisheries and Transforming Gender Roles in South Africa’s Coastal Communities

Location: News
The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR)

Coastal communities in South Africa were represented in a lively two-day community workshop that sought to promote gender inclusivity in environmental management and the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. The workshop, which was co-hosted by AU-IBAR, Mabuyi Development Planners, and Blue Wild Coast NPO, aimed to provide a thorough Gender Plan of Action for NGOs engaged in small-scale fisheries.

Fifty people showed up at the event in East London, South Africa. Among them were ladies from the seaside towns of Hamburg and Port St. John's, as well as officials from the government, non-governmental organisations, the business sector, and foreign organisations. The workshop sought to incorporate gender-sensitive practices into environmental management, with a heavy emphasis on gender mainstreaming. This was especially important in small-scale fisheries, where women are crucial but under-represented.

Workshop Objectives and Background
After successfully recruiting a Technical Consultant to assist South African environmental NGOs, the Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation Project continued its earlier efforts with the workshop. Site visits, a gender assessment report, an MoU, and a Gender Plan of Action were all part of the consultant's remit to guarantee that women and disadvantaged communities would be a part of environmental sustainability initiatives.

Prior consultations verified the inception report, which laid the groundwork for this workshop. Recognising the importance of local women as guardians of aquatic biodiversity, we set out to understand the difficulties they encounter in small-scale fisheries and find strategies to support them. Workshop participants also had the opportunity to confirm the consultant's report's findings and work together to develop ways to increase gender inclusion in the sector.

Opening Session: Setting the Stage for Change
A panel of speakers stressed gender equality in small-scale fisheries and aquatic biodiversity management at the inaugural session.

At the outset of the session, Ms. Elethu Duna, Executive Director of Blue Wild Coast NPO, acknowledged the importance of women in small-scale fishing in South Africa and highlighted their lack of representation in decision-making bodies. She emphasized that addressing gender inequities offers potential for permanent change and expressed gratitude to AU-IBAR and partners for the session. Duna strongly encouraged participation in developing a substantial Gender Plan of Action.

Mr. Zamkhaya Maseti from the Premier's Office, Government of South Africa, recognized the need for additional action in rural communities while emphasizing the government's dedication to empowering women through policies. He highlighted the importance of women in fisheries, noting that they are sometimes overlooked, and described the session as a crucial step in addressing this disparity. "The time for talk is over," Maseti declared as his final rallying cry. Now is the moment to take action.

Ms. Thabisa Sigwela, representing the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster, emphasized the need for women's economic empowerment and advocated for organized investments in financial inclusion and capacity building. She pledged to support businesses run by women and stressed the importance of providing women in underserved coastal communities with easy access to economic opportunities.

Ms. Mashebane Thosago, from the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET), highlighted the obstacles women in the fishing industry face, including a lack of education and financing. She spoke about how AWFISHNET is working to connect women across Africa and how this training can empower those involved in small-scale fishing to make a difference.

Ms. Fransciscar Mhuriro, representing AU-IBAR, reiterated the organization's commitment to gender equality, calling for women to be recognized as leaders in the fisheries industry. She stressed that AU-IBAR is responsible for promoting gender-responsive policies and enabling knowledge-sharing to ensure the Gender Plan of Action is a living tool for change.

Finally, Ms. Nozuko Ntsokota from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) discussed the need for practical application of existing gender policy. She highlighted the importance of collaboration to equip women with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive in small-scale fisheries and pledged continued support for initiatives that emerge from the session.

The workshop focused on gender issues in small-scale fisheries through technical sessions. The first session introduced the importance of integrating gender principles into fisheries management. Key presentations included the roles of men and women in small-scale fisheries, the marginalization of women, and the role of women in vulnerable coastal communities. The second session, moderated by Stephanie Achieng, discussed legislative frameworks, financial exclusion, tenure rights, and infrastructure challenges in small-scale fisheries. A draft gender plan of action was introduced, based on input from local fisherwomen.

Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Cooperatives
Ms. Thosago Mashebane of AWFISHNET and SANWFA highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women in fisheries cooperatives. Issues included unfriendly working environments, inadequate infrastructure, and limited financial inclusion. Despite the existence of cooperatives for over a decade, women continue to struggle with access to resources, funding, and tenure rights. Ms. Mashebane emphasized the need for improved legislative frameworks, increased capacity-building initiatives, and the creation of financial tools tailored to the needs of women in coastal communities.

Proposed Solutions and Commitments
Participants discussed potential solutions, such as the establishment of organized forums for women in cooperatives, improved sustainability of interventions, and stronger policy frameworks. The workshop also proposed the development of business models for women cooperatives, alongside measures to increase their representation in decision-making institutions at local and national levels. Notably, SANWFA committed to connecting women cooperatives from the Eastern Cape with buyers in the Western Cape, fostering new economic opportunities.

Key Workshop Outcomes
Key conclusions from the event will guide future efforts and the Gender Plan of Action. As a means of identifying and addressing critical obstacles, participants evaluated current frameworks and policies that affect women in coastal areas. They looked at different ways to help women participate more in small-scale fishing, with an emphasis on financial inclusion, capacity building, and access to resources. Involvement from women in coastal communities, local NGOs, and government stakeholders led to the development of a thorough Gender Plan of Action. This plan outlines methods for capacity building, advocacy, and monitoring. The significance of public-private partnerships was also highlighted, with organisations such as the South African Maritime Association and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) being identified as vital for long-term success.

Next Steps and Recommendations
The subsequent actions were outlined as follows: 

After the Gender Plan of Action is finalised, workshop participants will receive a draft of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and have the opportunity to review and provide input on it before the deadline. When completed, it will be a part of larger plans to manage fisheries on a national and regional level. The importance of ongoing support from AU-IBAR and Blue Wild Coast NPO was highlighted, as was the need for continuous capacity building for women cooperatives in Port St. Johns and Hamburg. For the purpose of tracking and adjusting progress, gender-sensitive monitoring and evaluation indicators will be created and integrated into the M&E framework of the participating NGOs. Sustainable business models in small-scale fishing will also be a priority, therefore we'll be working to connect women's cooperatives with buyers and funding options.

Conclusion
For South African small-scale fisheries, the community workshop was a watershed moment in the fight for gender parity. At this event, women from coastal communities, along with representatives from government and NGOs, worked together to develop strategies that will empower women and involve them in managing aquatic biodiversity. Participation and representation of women in coastal communities in environmental management discussions will be enhanced by the workshop's outputs, which will play a pivotal role in informing future policies and interventions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).

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CCTCLaunches Origin8 Programme to Accelerator Sme Growth in the Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather Industry

Location: MyPR

The Cape Clothing & Textile Cluster (CCTC) is excited to announce the launch of “Origin8: From Start-up to Scale-up”, a programme that is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa’s clothing, textile, footwear, and leather (CTFL) sector. Supported by the City of Cape Town’s Growth Coalitions Branch, the programme is the …

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Countdown to final exams for Class of 2024

Location: News

Countdown to final exams for Class of 2024

With just under a month to go to the start of this year’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, matrics all around the country will put shoulder to wheel in preparation for the final exams of their basic education careers.

The examinations are set to run from 21 October to 27 November 2024, and marking will commence immediately thereafter. 

READ | Basic Education ready for 2024 matric examinations

According to the Western Cape Education Department, over the school holiday, matrics across the province will be attending Spring School to revise their work and prepare for the final exams ahead.

“Matric learners will have the opportunity to attend walk-in classes at their school, or a hub with learners from several schools attending,” said Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier.  

Meanwhile, the Eden and Central Karoo, and West Coast education districts will also host residential camps for some of their learners. 

The department is appealing to the public to support Grade 12s, as the countdown to the exams is a stressful period for the learners and they need to be given the best possible opportunity to achieve their goals without any added anxiety.

“I encourage any matric learner who feels overwhelmed to reach out to their teachers and school for support. Help is available, and we will do everything we can to support you. 

“This will also be an anxious time for our matric teachers, who have supported our learners throughout the year,” said Maynier. 

He also took the time thank the educators for the many hours they have put into preparing matric learners for the final stretch. 

“To our matrics, you have made it this far, and worked so hard to prepare for this moment, so this is the time to make your efforts count. We can’t wait to see what the #ClassOf2024 will achieve.” 

Maynier expressed his appreciation for the tutors’ willingness and schools to host these vital revision classes over the holiday period.

“We have also collated a variety of eLearning resources specifically for our matrics on our ePortal, including video lessons, past papers, study tips and revision notes.” 

The MEC is encouraging learners to make use of these resources, which can be found on https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/matric-support. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Sun, 09/22/2024 - 13:54

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Homes and title deeds for Garden Route communities

Location: News

Homes and title deeds for Garden Route communities

The Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, has visited the Garden Route to hand over title deeds and houses in George and Mossel Bay.

The Minister and the community of Toekoms in Great Brak River, Mossel Bay, were in high spirits as 10 beneficiaries finally received their title deeds on Friday. 

The MEC was joined by Executive Mayor Dirk Kotzé, who thanked Simmers, saying: “Together with the community of Toekoms, we are thankful to once again be working with the Western Cape Government (WCG) to make a difference in Mossel Bay.

“We know that not only do these title deeds empower the beneficiaries here today, but they also empower their loved ones and secure a better future for their children.”

At the Metro Grounds Housing Development in George, 18 houses and title deeds were handed over.

The Metro Grounds Housing Development will deliver 436 housing opportunities upon completion.

Simmers took the opportunity to announce that his department is planning to build another 196 units at this development.

“We share the excitement of this community, and we are thankful for what our municipality, in partnership with the WCG, has been able to provide to these deserving beneficiaries,” said Executive Mayor of George Municipality, Jackie von Brandis.  

Meanwhile, Simmers acknowledged that occasions like these are not possible without partnerships. 

“It is encouraging to witness how the Western Cape Government, municipalities like Mossel Bay and George, and all relevant stakeholders, can work together to improve the lives of the people of the Western Cape.” 

On both occasions, local law practitioners were present, who assisted beneficiaries with drawing up wills at no charge.

The provincial department believes that it was befitting that the houses and title deeds were handed over last week, particularly during Heritage Month and Free Wills Week. 

The WCG is of the view that the handover of title deeds means more than just becoming the owner of a house but also empowers the title holder to ensure a better future for their loved ones.

“My department’s primary focus is to uplift our communities, especially poorer communities, and to build infrastructure that provides residents with the opportunity for a better, prosperous future,” said Simmers. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Sun, 09/22/2024 - 13:24

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Cabinet hails progress in fight against crime with Operation Shanela

Location: News

Cabinet hails progress in fight against crime with Operation Shanela

Cabinet has welcomed progress being made in the fight against crime through Operation Shanela, which continues to make its mark in rooting out criminality. 

“Between 2 and 8 September 2024, law enforcement agencies arrested 13 691 suspects for serious crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said during a post Cabinet media briefing on Friday. 

Since its inception in May 2023, Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols, including foot patrols, the tracing of wanted suspects with a focus on murder and rape suspects, and compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand goods dealers. 

Through detectives and crime intelligence tracing operations, roadblocks, as well as stop and searches - police have taken a bold and decisive approach in protecting the communities that they serve.

Since its launch, Operation Shanela has resulted in the arrest of 850 375 suspects, and seizure of 824 illegal firearms and over 17 282 rounds of ammunition. In addition, drugs worth over R13 million were seized at the OR Tambo International Airport over the past two months, and copper worth over R20 million was recovered from a scrapyard near Durban, with a suspect arrested.

“Through a coordinated multidisciplinary and intelligence-led operations, law enforcement agencies are focused on dismantling extortion syndicates across the country. In the past two weeks, 14 extortionists were arrested in various provinces,” Ntshavheni said.

Restoring Integrity of Law Enforcement Officers

Through a multidisciplinary collaboration, law enforcement agencies have arrested 14 suspects in Mpumalanga on charges of fraud and corruption for issuing illegal learners’ and driver’s licences. Meanwhile, 11 traffic officers were also arrested for soliciting bribes from motorists along the N1 freeway in Limpopo.

“Three off-duty police officers and a civilian were arrested in Durban, KZN, for soliciting a R100 000 bribe from a businessman in exchange for the release of confiscated goods, and four more police officers handed themselves over to the SAPS on the same case,” the Minister said. 

Furthermore, eight suspects were arrested for alleged involvement on tender fraud and corruption amounting to R850 million in the City of Cape Town, Western Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 14:11

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Minister Macpherson welcomes Castle of Good Hope court order

Location: News

Minister Macpherson welcomes Castle of Good Hope court order

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has welcomed a court order which stipulates that those occupying the Castle of Good Hope have to vacate the property by 17 October.

The eviction order was granted to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) by the Western Cape High Court.

The order stipulates that those occupying the Castle of Good Hope have to vacate the property by 17 October 2024, following which an eviction may occur as needed for any remaining unlawful occupants. 

The City of Cape Town has a standing offer to unlawful occupants to take up dignified transitional shelter at the city-run Safe Space facilities. 

Safe Spaces offer warm beds, ablution facilities, meals, access to medical care, substance abuse treatment, Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) work, personal development planning and more, to help people leave the streets.

“The eviction order serves as a boost for Cape Town’s economy ahead of the busy summer tourism season in the city and reinforces our position that state assets should be looked after and be used for public good. 
“We simply cannot allow state assets to be occupied and vandalised, such as the Castle of Good Hope during the COVID-19 pandemic. The occupation and decay of state buildings nationwide create issues for the municipalities by attracting crime and grime which we have also seen at the Castle of Good Hope,” Minister Macpherson said. 

He added that the castle is an important part of South Africa’s history, and it is therefore important that it be safeguarded and maintained to ensure that future generations can learn from the past to build a better future. 
He added that the castle is also an important tourism attraction in the City of Cape Town and thereby plays an important role in the local economy which helps to create jobs which are sorely needed.

Meanwhile, the Minister will be joining City of Cape Town Executive Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis on Friday afternoon, to tour the Grand Parade next to the Castle of Good Hope, as well as the Hout Bay Harbour. 

The Minister will also address the media on efforts by the DPWI to address hijacked and decayed State-owned properties in the city.

The Minister said he is committed to working with all municipalities to turn South Africa into a construction site and use public assets for public good. 

“Similarly to the Memorandum of Understanding that I will soon be signing with the Mayor of eThekwini, I look forward to concluding an agreement with the City Of Cape Town, to work closer together with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to address hijacked and decaying state-owned buildings, but also to contribute to economic growth and job creation. Let’s Build South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/20/2024 - 09:44

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Western Cape NCOP Delegation Impressed by Delivery of Affordable Social Housing in Cape Town

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Western Cape's permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) expressed satisfaction and commended the efficient implementation of social housing projects to residents by the Western Cape Provincial Government's Department of Infrastructure and the City of Cape Town.

The delegation said some of the social housing projects are a great example of effective intergovernmental collaboration and public-private partnerships which provide decent and dignified accommodation.

While briefing the delegation on, the City of Cape Town reported that ten affordable social housing projects, totaling 4 849 residential units, have been completed between 2017 and 2024. According to the City, six more land parcels have been awarded as part of the land release program for affordable mixed social housing, out of which 4 268 housing opportunities are expected to be completed by 2028.

The delegation heard that more land parcels are at planning and release stage and are expected to provide approximately 20 000 housing opportunities in future.

The delegation conducted site visits to three of the recently completed social housing projects on Wednesday. It was impressed by the Conradie Better Living Model Exemplar Project in Pinelands which has 1004 affordable rental units ranging from R740 a month for a bachelor unit. It was built on the land belonging to the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and has more tenants living in the vast precinct than the total population of Pinelands.

The delegation also commended the Maitland Mews development which boasts 204 social housing units developed to curb the City's dire need for centrally located social housing residences. At a total development cost of R95 953 055, monthly rental ranges from R650 for a bachelor to at least R4 900 for a two-bedroom unit.

Other features include nine business training units which are also used as meeting venues, play areas for children, and 24-hour security with biometrics fingerprint access and CCTV cameras.

The delegates also braved the rain and inclement weather on their third site visit of the day. They inspected the Goodwood Station Social Housing Project which began tenanting its 1055 units in December 2023 and August 2024 respectively. Water and bulk services are fully subsidized, and tenants also benefit from the indigent electricity subsidy.

The delegation and SALGA representatives quizzed the City on what seem like stringent and exclusionary letting procedures, and recommended a more inclusionary approach to benefit more people. The City currently has 410 000 applicants on its waiting list of indigent people needing social housing.

The leader of the delegation, Mr Rikus Badenhorst, said other municipalities could benchmark the City's delivery model in managing strategic intergovernmental cooperation and private-public partnerships that enable development.

Meanwhile the department cautioned that lack of funding, cross-subsidy and political support may hamper the delivery of similar projects that are currently at planning phase. The department indicated that similar projects are currently underway in Oudtshoorn, George, Knysna, Worcester, Stellenbosch and in other areas across the province.

The City recommended exploring alternative funding mechanism for affordable housing beyond government subsidies which may not be sustainable in future. The City also suggested the devolution of the Consolidated Capital Grant funding to municipalities for localized administration.

Mr. Badenhorst said the delegation will consolidate all recommendations and report back to the NCOP at the end of the oversight programme. The delegates will reconvene at the Western Cape Provincial Parliament Chamber this morning to turn their focus towards the province's disaster management systems.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Police Committee Questions Appointment of Major General Mbotho as Divisional Commissioner

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Police has requested the Minister of Police, National Commissioner of Police and the head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation to outline the rationale for appointing Major General Patrick Mbotho as Divisional Commissioner: National Priority Offences in the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation. The committee has learned that the SAPS has made the appointment despite major integrity and reputational concerns.

“The fight against crime requires police officers of high integrity that are beyond reproach,” said Mr Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the committee. “The fact that Major General Mbotho has had various allegations of impropriety against him might have a negative impact on the perception of the SAPS' willingness to fight crime,” Mr Cameron said.

While the committee acknowledged that these allegations had not been proven in any formal or legal process, the mere fact that the allegations of impropriety exist and that no formal investigation was undertaken to disprove the claims will feed the perception that the SAPS are protecting their own. “The trust deficit between the SAPS and the community will continue to widen if officers facing such worrying allegations are promoted. The police management must reconsider the appointment to safeguard the integrity of the service,” Mr Cameron urged.

Some of the allegations against Major General Mbotho is that he posted various explicit and adult content to a Detectives Commander WhatsApp group using his official cell phone. The committee found it concerning that this allegedly happened while Major General Mbotho headed the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. This unit's primary mandate is the protection of women and children. “That transgression alone should have led to his dismissal from the SAPS, especially because of the unacceptably high gender-based violence in the country. That he was only transferred to North West DPCI was grossly irregular and reeks of SAPS protecting their own,” Mr Cameron said.

There were also allegations that Major General Mbotho had meetings with individuals currently suspected of gang activity and extortion in the Western Cape. The Chairperson said with the country currently experiencing increased cases of extortion, it is unfathomable that an individual with such worrying allegations was promoted. There are also other allegations that Major General Mbotho was involved in interfering in criminal investigations and defeating the ends of justice. “It is on this basis that the appointment seems highly irrational and threatens the reputation and integrity of the SAPS in the eyes of the public,” Mr Cameron said.

As a result, the Chairperson has written a letter to the Minister of Police to, amongst others, clarify who the other applicants for the post were, who the members of the recruitment panel were, the performance of Major General Mbotho in the North West province compared to other provinces, if the allegations against him were considered during the recruitment process, and if the Major General has the requisite security clearance as required by the position. The committee has given the Minister until September 27 to respond.

“What is important to the Portfolio Committee is the appointment of capable, ethical and credible officers that will enhance the fight against crime. Appointments must send a clear message that SAPS is serious about upholding the integrity of the service,” Mr Cameron said.

The committee also requested that the appointment be reviewed and an inquiry be launched.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read morePolice Committee Questions Appointment of Major General Mbotho as Divisional Commissioner

Basic Education ready for 2024 matric examinations

Location: News

Basic Education ready for 2024 matric examinations

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) says all systems are in place for it to administer the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations for the Class of 2024.

The department briefed the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education this week on a preliminary report regarding the state of readiness for this year’s Grade 12 final examinations.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule and Director-General Mathanzima Mweli led the departmental delegation to Parliament.

The examinations are set to run from 21 October to 27 November 2024, and marking will commence immediately thereafter. 

“There are 55 053 markers appointed, who will be stationed at 188 marking centres. The results will be released to candidates on 16 January 2025. The Minister will announce the results on 15 January 2024,” the department said. 

Delivering opening remarks, Gwarube said the DBE had done a lot of work to prepare both the candidates and the system for this year’s examination. She said this was a pivotal moment for the learners, who are in their last weeks in the basic education system.

In terms of system readiness, the Chief Director for National Assessment and Public Examinations, Dr Rufus Poliah, reported that there were 732 448 full-time candidates enrolled for NSC examinations this year, which is 8 400 more than in 2023.

“KwaZulu-Natal has the largest Grade 12 population with 172 213 candidates, while Gauteng contributes the second largest number with 136 620. Eastern Cape has 103 975 and Limpopo has 94 236. Mpumalanga has 68 455 and the Western Cape has registered 64 552 candidates. The North West has 41 480, while the Free State has 37 737 and the Northern Cape has 13 180 registered candidates this year. 

“There are 136 195 part-time candidates registered to sit for various subjects this year. The examinations will take place in 6 909 centres across the nine provinces,” the department said.  

Poliah said a total of 162 question papers for the 2024 October/November examinations have been approved by Umalusi and are ready for handover to provinces for printing.

The Class of 2024 is the seventh cohort that will sit for South African Sign Language (SASL) Home Language (HL) examinations in November 2024. Twenty- three schools in nine provinces have 210 candidates registered for SASL HL, compared to 134 candidates in 2023.

In terms of learner readiness, the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum, Dr Barney Mthembu, highlighted several factors that need to be taken into account regarding the current cohort of Grade 12 learners. 

“Firstly, the Class of 2024 was in Grade R in 2012, the year of implementation of the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) in foundation phase. Secondly, they entered Grade 8 in 2020 at the height of COVID-19, which means their transition from primary to secondary school was seriously disrupted.

“Thirdly, their Grade 9 year (2021), which is crucial for subject selection in Grade 10, was also disrupted due to COVID-19,” Mthembu said. 

He said learners experienced social distancing, which limited group work between teachers and group assessment activities. Rotational attendance affected coverage of the curriculum and created content gaps. At the height of COVID-19, teacher absenteeism affected teacher curriculum coverage negatively for this cohort.

In spite of these disruptions, the department said this cohort started to benefit from the Learning Recovery Programme at primary school.

“Strategies and interventions aimed at addressing the academic setbacks of COVID-19 were introduced. In Grade 10 (2022), the system was beginning to recover from the COVID-19 restrictions, which led to a return of the majority of learners to school.

“This saved this cohort from rotational attendance and loss of teaching and learning time. It also helped them to complete the Grade 10 Annual Teaching Plans (ATPs). In Grade 11 (2023) this cohort had an advantage of the removal of social distancing and other related restrictions. This helped it to cover the Grade 11 Annual Teaching Plans,” the department said. 

This year, in Grade 12, they are benefiting from a wealth of resources that were developed to assist the classes of 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 with learning and studying. These include previous diagnostic reports, question papers and study material.

Mweli has visited 162 study camps in different parts of the country throughout the year to support the Grade 12 learners.

The department further highlighted that the Class of 2024 has also benefited from being taught by teachers who have improved subject results in 2022 and 2023, making them motivated to improve performance in 2024. 

The Class of 2024 reached Grade 12 when schools had mastered the skill of using the diagnostic reports of the previous years for examination preparation. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 10:23

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Suspect arrested for attempted murder, possession of illegal ammunition

Location: News

Suspect arrested for attempted murder, possession of illegal ammunition

Police have arrested a suspect wanted in an attempted murder case in Malmesbury in the Western Cape.

On Tuesday morning, members of the Malmesbury Crime Prevention Unit responded to information about a wanted suspect, who was in hiding. The suspect had evaded arrest after perpetrating attempted murder over the weekend, where a victim sustained a gunshot wound.

The information led the members to the hiding place of the suspect on Anemone Street in Wesbank, Malmesbury, where they found and apprehended the 22-year-old suspect. 

When the members searched the suspect and the premises, they found a .38 special revolver and four rounds of ammunition. Further investigation revealed that the suspect had stolen the firearm during a burglary.

The suspect will appear in the Malmesbury Magistrates’ Court on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and attempted murder. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 08:56

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Cooler weekend expected, says weather service

Location: News

Cooler weekend expected, says weather service

While many South Africans are experiencing a hot to very hot start to spring with the first heat wave of the season occurring over parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, cooler weather is expected from Thursday.

Weather conditions are expected to change significantly as a cold front and cut-off low-pressure system will introduce wintery conditions to the Western Cape, southern parts of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape from Thursday, 19 September 2024. 

Significantly colder conditions will then spread to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and Mpumalanga on Friday, 20 September, and reach Gauteng, North West and Limpopo on Saturday, 21 September.

“Disruptive snowfall and bitterly cold conditions are expected to affect the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape (especially the north-eastern high-ground) from Thursday, spreading to the eastern and southern high-ground of the Free State, the western and southern high-ground of KwaZulu-Natal and extending as far as the southern Highveld of Mpumalanga on Friday into Saturday morning,” the SA Weather Service (SAWS) said in a statement. 

The public and small stock farmers are advised to take the necessary precautions ahead of the expected adverse weather conditions to ensure the safety and health of their animals.

A cold front arrives in the Western Cape today resulting in showers and rain over the south-western parts, spreading to the Garden Route and Little Karoo by this evening and to the Eastern Cape tomorrow. 

“It will be cold to very cold over parts of the Western Cape interior and the Eastern Cape on Thursday. Strong to near-gale force winds with rough seas of 4 to 6 metres are likely along the Western Cape coast today, spreading to parts of the Eastern Cape coast overnight and to the coast of KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow.  

“Light snowfalls are likely to occur over the eastern mountains of the Western Cape and the northern high-ground and mountains of the Eastern Cape, mainly from Thursday afternoon into the evening, while becoming disruptive over the north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape later in the evening,” the Weather Service said.

In contrast, very hot to extremely hot temperatures - exceeding 38 to 40°C - are expected to occur over parts of the Limpopo Valley and Lowveld of Limpopo ahead of this system.

On Friday, an intense cut-off low pressure system will develop along the border of the Northern and Eastern Cape provinces and will move into the southern parts of the Free State in the evening.

This system will result in widespread showers and thundershowers over parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal (with possible heavy rainfall along the coastal regions), while scattered thunderstorms are possible over parts of Gauteng, western Limpopo, the eastern parts of the North West and the Free State as well as parts of Mpumalanga. 

Bitterly cold daytime temperatures of 4 to 8°C can be expected over the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the eastern Free State, and the interior of KwaZulu-Natal, where widespread snowfall is likely. 

SAWS said current numerical weather prediction models indicate the possibility of light snowfall over the southern parts of Gauteng and the remainder of the Highveld of Mpumalanga on Saturday morning. 

“However, there is significant uncertainty regarding this outlook, as the forecast may still change.”

Disruptive snowfall of 15 to 30 cm can be expected over the north-eastern high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the western and southern areas of KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern Free State and the southern Highveld and escarpment of Mpumalanga, mainly on Friday continuing into Saturday morning. 

“This may result in the closure of mountain passes, loss of livestock and crops, and affect major traffic routes (parts of the N3, N5 and N11). Cold to very cold daytime temperatures (8 to 12°C) can also be expected over Gauteng and the eastern parts of North West on Saturday, 21 September. 

The cut-off low is expected to weaken and exit the country from Saturday afternoon. Daytime temperatures are expected to recover quickly from Sunday into Monday across eastern South Africa. 

The weather service will therefore continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required. 

The public is urged and encouraged to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 14:58

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Green Hydrogen programme makes progress 

Location: News

Green Hydrogen programme makes progress 

Since the gazetting of nine Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) by Infrastructure at a Capex value of R300 billion, the Green Hydrogen National Programme (GHNP) has attracted projects with the Capex value of over R800 billion with about 20% of the total investments at the bankable feasibility stage.

This is according to Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister, Sihle Zikalala, who was speaking at the Green Hydrogen Devac conference in Sandton, Johannesburg on Wednesday.

The gazetting of the SIPs was done by Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) which is an entity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in 2022.

According to Zikalala, most of these projects are at different stages of development ranging from prefeasibility to execution.

These projects include the Isondo Precious Metals (IPM) in Johannesburg which entails a fuel cell and electrolyser component manufacturing facility in Gauteng, the Prieska Energy Cluster Green Ammonia Production facility in the Northern Cape, Boegoes Bay Green Hydrogen Port Rail and Infrastructure Project driven by the Northern Cape provincial government.

Other projects include the Hive Green Ammonia export project in the Eastern Cape, Arcelor Mittal South Africa (AMSA) Saldanha Green Steel Project in the Western Cape and the Sasolburg 60MW H2 production in Gauteng.

Zikalala said South Africa only needed one percent of the country’s land area to support green hydrogen economy initiatives, creating jobs and improving the economy. He said this was unusable land for agriculture and human settlements.  

The Deputy Minster said ISA acted as one of the government enablers for the South African green hydrogen opportunity.

He said that by gazetting the GHNP as a SIP, ISA enabled projects to be placed on an expedited path to development with prescribed and shortened timeframes for various project approvals and authorisations.
‘The seventh administration has identified three priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state," said the Deputy Minister.

He called on green hydrogen players to work with government in the creation of jobs in the green hydrogen economy.

“We look up to you to take a lead in facilitating green hydrogen manufacturing capability in a manner that localises the production of upstream and downstream value-added products. Working together, South Africa can realise its potential to produce six to 13 million tons of green hydrogen and derivatives per year by 2050.  

“We reiterate that South Africa as a green hydrogen investment destination still offers substantial additional investment opportunities including green shipping, green fertiliser production, electrolyser manufacturing, pipeline development, green field port developments’, said Zikalala. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 15:26

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