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WHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency

Location: News

WHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency

The ongoing outbreak of Mpox has been officially declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The upsurge of Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa has been determined by the WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, to constitute a 
Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Ghebreyesus’ declaration came on the advice of an IHR Emergency Committee of independent experts who met on Wednesday to review data presented by experts from the WHO and affected countries. 

A PHEIC is the highest alert level under international health law.

“The emergence of a new clade of Mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighbouring countries are very worrying. On top of outbreaks of other Mpox clades in DRC and other countries in Africa, it’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” Ghebreyesus said. 

WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said significant efforts are already underway in close collaboration with communities and governments, with country teams working on the frontlines to help reinforce measures to curb Mpox. 

“With the growing spread of the virus, we’re scaling up further through coordinated international action to support countries bring the outbreaks to an end,” she said. 

Committee Chair, Professor Dimie Ogoina, indicated that the current upsurge of Mpox in parts of Africa, along with the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain of the Mpox virus, is an emergency, not only for Africa but for the entire globe. 

“Mpox, originating in Africa, was neglected there, and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself.”

According to the WHO, the multi-country outbreak of Mpox was declared a PHEIC in 2022 after it spread rapidly via sexual contact across a range of countries where the virus had not been seen before. 

That PHEIC was declared over in May 2023 after there had been a sustained decline in global cases.
Meanwhile, Mpox has been reported in the DRC for more than a decade, and the number of cases reported each year has increased steadily over that period. 

Last year, the WHO said reported cases increased significantly, and already the number of cases reported so far this year has exceeded last year’s total, with more than 15 600 cases and 537 deaths.

“The emergence last year and rapid spread of a new virus strain in DRC, clade 1b, which appears to be spreading mainly through sexual networks, and its detection in countries neighbouring the DRC is especially concerning, and one of the main reasons for the declaration of the PHEIC,” the WHO said. 

In South Africa, the total number of cases stands at 24, of which 12 were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape and three deaths. 

Vaccine donation

The WHO announced it was working with countries and vaccine manufacturers on potential vaccine donations and coordinating with partners through the interim Medical Countermeasures Network to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and other tools.

The WHO said it anticipates an immediate funding requirement of an initial US$ 15 million to support surveillance, preparedness and response activities. 

To allow for an immediate scale-up, the WHO said it has released US$ 1.45 million from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies and may need to release more in the coming days. 

“The organisation appeals to donors to fund the full extent of needs of the Mpox response.”

READ | Everything you need to know about Mpox disease – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 09:57

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Read moreWHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency

Winners in Table Bay Mall Leg of HYPROP MTN SHIFT Tournament Announced Ahead of the Final Chance to Qualify for Grand Final

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

R200k in prize money, eight qualifiers nationwide, culminating in one epic gaming showdown… this is the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024! The HYPROP MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024 is approaching its thrilling conclusion, with the announcement of the latest winners and just two more opportunities to qualify for the grand final. The latest round of …

Read moreWinners in Table Bay Mall Leg of HYPROP MTN SHIFT Tournament Announced Ahead of the Final Chance to Qualify for Grand Final

Basic Education Committee Chairperson Shocked by Death of Learners

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education, Ms Joy Maimela, has noted with shock the death of several learners in Gauteng yesterday.

She said: “This is indeed incredibly sad such young lives, dying so tragically. They will now never reach their full potential. The youth is the future, but South Africa will now never benefit from these young people.”

Ms Maimela was reacting to media reports that three Sebokeng's Evaton Primary School learners, two of them were siblings got sick at school and were taken to a nearby health facility. They were declared dead on arrival at hospital and food poison is alleged as the cause of their death.

In a separate incident a Grade 8 learner from Tsakane Secondary School in Ekurhuleni died yesterday after she allegedly consumed rat poison. “We want to appeal to all learners to seek help if they feel overwhelmed. Schools normally have support systems in place and learners should make use of this,” said Ms Maimela.

Ms Maimela appealed to parents and care givers to be vigilant, especially during examinations periods with the nearing Grade 12 preliminary and final examinations. She called for a favourable atmosphere of study for learners at this time.

Ms Maimela also noted that the body of a Grade 10 learner was found in the storeroom late last week at the Overberg High School in Caledon, Western Cape. “This learner was sent to school in what is supposed to be a safe environment. Now her parents and loved ones will never see her thrive in life.”

She appealed to the authorities for greater safety in schools. “Furthermore, we appeal to the police for swift investigations and to ensure that they leave no stone unturned.”

The committee also noted several road accidents in recent weeks where learners lost their lives. Ms Maimela appealed to the providers of scholar transport, public transport owners to screen drivers before hiring them to ensure they are trustworthy for transporting learners. “Sadly, we are losing too many learners on our roads,” said Ms Maimela.

She added: “We want to convey our sincerest condolences to all the families, friends and school communities at large that have been affected by these tragedies.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreBasic Education Committee Chairperson Shocked by Death of Learners

Miss South Africa redefines what it means to be a queen, Chikunga

Location: News

Miss South Africa redefines what it means to be a queen, Chikunga

Minister in Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has congratulated Mia Le Roux who was recently crowned Miss South Africa 2024.

The 28-year-old Le Roux who was born in Sasolburg, Free State, and raised in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, was crowned Miss South Africa during a glittering ceremony held at the Sun Bet Arena in Menlyn, Pretoria East, on Saturday night.

Le Roux, who is deaf, became the first Miss South Africa and differently abled finalist in the history of the pageant.

READ | Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Prior to entering the competition, Le Roux worked full-time as a marketing manager for a start-up company. She is also studying a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing part time at Unisa.

In her congratulatory message, Chikunga said Le Roux’s incredible achievement speaks volumes, not just for her beauty and grace, but for her strength, resilience, and determination.

“You have shown the world that true beauty shines from within, and that our differences only make us stronger. You have broken barriers and redefined what it means to be a queen.

“May your reign be filled with joy, pride, and the knowledge that you are a beacon of hope and inspiration to countless others. Wishing you continued success and happiness in all your future endeavours,” Chikunga said.

The Minister also noted that her win will assist to carry the baton of hope and trust among young people.

“We also wish to encourage Le Roux to become an ambassador to address the rights of persons with disabilities, while also assisting with dismantling social, psychological, and structural barriers, which remain major challenges for people with disabilities,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 13:56

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Read moreMiss South Africa redefines what it means to be a queen, Chikunga

Western Cape Government urges motorists to exercise caution 

Location: News

Western Cape Government urges motorists to exercise caution 

The Western Cape Government (WCG) is urging motorists to reduce their speed on the roads after recording a concerning 201 speeding offences on provincial roads.

“This statistic highlights the ongoing challenge of curbing speeding and ensuring road safety across the province,” said the provincial government in a statement.

The speeding offences were recorded between 5 and 11 August. 

According to the WCG, speeding remains one of the leading causes of traffic crashes, resulting in preventable injuries and fatalities. 

The Mobility Department said it was committed to promoting safer driving habits and urged all road users to adhere to speed limits to protect themselves and others.

In addition to one arrest for speeding, six drivers were also arrested for reckless and negligent driving in the past week. 

The provincial department said the highest speed violations recorded between 5 and 11 August include 161km/h in a 120km/h, 144km/h in a 100km/h and 89km/h in a 60km/h zone. 

Speeding is not just a violation of traffic laws but a significant threat to public safety. 

The department said driving at excessive speeds significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time, increases the severity of collisions, and diminishes the effectiveness of safety features in vehicles.

“In the unfortunate event of an accident, the chances of severe injuries or fatalities rise dramatically with speed. Pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users are especially at risk when drivers exceed speed limits.” 

To address this issue, the department has intensified its traffic law enforcement efforts, including increased patrols on high-risk routes. 

Western Cape MEC of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, commented that enforcement alone is not enough.

“We need a collective effort from all road users to change their mindset and driving behaviour. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and adhering to speed limits is a crucial aspect of this responsibility,” said Sileku. 

He said his department remains committed to creating safer roads for all residents. 

“We urge drivers to take the dangers of speeding seriously and to contribute to the safety of our communities by driving within the prescribed speed limits. Together, we can prevent unnecessary tragedies and make our roads safer for all Western Cape residents,” Sileku added. 

Tips for drivers to help avoid speeding:
   • Plan ahead: Ensure you leave with enough time to reach your destination without feeling rushed.
   • Stay alert: Regularly check your speedometer and adjust your speed according to road conditions and speed limits.
   • If available, use cruise control: On freeways, cruise control can help maintain a steady and legal speed.
   • Be mindful of speed zones: Pay attention to road signs indicating speed limits and adjust your speed accordingly, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity.
   • Avoid aggressive driving: Keep calm and patient, even in traffic or when running late. 

 -SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Gabisile
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 11:13

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Emergency spillway under construction to avoid further Riverlands disaster

Location: News

Emergency spillway under construction to avoid further Riverlands disaster

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has given the City of Cape Town permission to construct an emergency spillway on the fourth and remaining farm dam reported to be on the verge of collapse to lower the risk of its collapse.

This follows the failure of three farm dams, located in Riverlands, that breached, resulting in flooding that caused severe property and infrastructure damage to the affected area, leading to hundreds of people being provided with humanitarian assistance.

The department’s Head of Communication, Dr Mandla Mathebula, said the three failed dams did not have sufficient spillways and had filled beyond the safe level, resulting in overtopping due to high rainfall and associated run off, causing them to fail in series.

“The fourth dam, which is the highest dam in the valley, also has no spillway and it has been discovered that it has some structural damage. The dams are owned by the Western Cape Provincial Government and serve local farmers.

“To reduce the risk of potential failure, the DWS Dam Safey Office has granted permission for the construction of an emergency spillway on the fourth dam,” Mathebula said.

Mathebula said construction has started under the supervision of an approved professional person and will ensure that the dam is able to manage the anticipated floods due to the predicted rainfall, which will last until Tuesday.

“The existing outlet pipe of the dam will also be kept fully open to allow the dam levels to drop to safe capacity or even empty if required,” Mathebula said.

According to the preliminary report by the department’s engineers who are on site, the dams failed last week Wednesday at approximately 3am. The town of Riverlands, approximately two kilometres downstream, was partially flooded.

Due to the dams storing the bulk of the catchment runoff and not having any spillways to discharge any water in rainy seasons, the river dried up downstream.

Mathebula noted that most of the affected houses, including the railway line, subsistence farming smallholdings, schools, roads, and other structures, were constructed in the original river flood zones.

He said the department will conduct an investigation into the causes of the dam failures and depending on the results of the investigation, DWS may implement regulatory actions to ensure accountability.

“DWS is doing its best to assist the City of Cape Town during this difficult period to ensure that the situation is normalised. The DWS has dispatched its engineers from the Western Cape Regional Office to provide expert advice to stabilise and rehabilitate the situation.

“A local Joint Operations Committee has been established, represented by a variety of municipalities, disaster management teams, DWS, Gift for Givers, SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), social and humanitarian organisations, amongst others,’” Mathebula said.

The department has assured the communities around the affected area that all hands are on deck to resolve the problem. It encouraged community members to cooperate during this period to ensure speedy work on site. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 09:53

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Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

Location: News

Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that through stronger collaboration between government and business, along with the backing of labor and civil society, entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool to lift more women out of poverty.

The President said this in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.

“With greater collaboration between government and business, together with the support of labour and civil society, we can use entrepreneurship to lift more women out of poverty. We can create more jobs for women and help more women secure their financial freedom,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the private sector is playing an important role in guiding these entrepreneurship journeys through start-up incubators, women entrepreneurship awards and programmes such as the Youth Employment Service.

With the help of the Social Employment Fund and others, government is enabling women entrepreneurs to employ workers and provide mentorship to trainees.

“There is much more that the private sector can do. Access to financial resources, including credit lines, is vital to the viability of women-owned businesses.

“Another important area is access to tools of financial inclusion like bank accounts and mobile money and payment technologies. It will be critical to broaden the reach of financial services to include women in the informal sector and in rural areas.

“Empowering women contributes to thriving economies, spurs productivity and boosts economic growth,” President Ramaphosa said.

Last week, the country commemorated the Women’s March to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. This historic protest by more than 20 000 South African women was a response to the cruel and dehumanising practices of the apartheid regime.

READ | Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

Thirty years into democracy, the President highlighted that government has made impressive strides in advancing gender equality across society, however we still have a long way to go in broadening women’s economic participation.

This is borne out by a recently published Gallup study titled ‘Gender Power in Africa’. The report analyses the disparities and imbalances that shape the lives of women in five African countries, including South Africa.

South Africa ranks the highest of the countries surveyed with respect to the rate of female participation in political decision-making, low rates of child marriage, and the participation and completion rates of girls in primary and secondary education.

However, of the countries surveyed, South Africa has the highest rate of unemployed women and women not in the workforce. The percentage of South African women considered to be self-employed or entrepreneurs is the lowest, at 5%.

“In this respect, we lag behind the rest of the continent. According to the World Economic Forum, women constitute 58% of self-employed people across Africa.  

“In a country such as ours, with a high unemployment rate, entrepreneurship is an important tool to empower more women and broaden their participation in the economy. This includes in the informal sector, which accounts for 18% of total employment in the country,” the President said.

WATCH | 

Through its various departments and entities, the President highlighted that the State provides financial support to women to enable them to start their own businesses and to sustain existing businesses.

Women-owned businesses are also able to access training in business and project management, IT and other skills.

“We have set a target to allocate at least 40% of public procurement spend to women-owned businesses. In 2021, we launched a Women’s Economic Assembly to enable women-owned enterprises to participate in local industry value chains. Since its inception this programme has yielded promising results in a number of key economic sectors, notably the automotive sector,” he said.

He further highlighted that government is striving to expand women’s access to economic activity through land ownership, enabling female farmers to own land through the state’s land redistribution programme and supporting them with equipment and other agricultural inputs.  

“From citrus farmers in the North West, cooperatives making affordable school furniture in KwaZulu-Natal, to cosmetics companies and tech start-ups in the Western Cape, women-owned enterprises all across the country are benefiting from an integrated approach to supporting small businesses,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

DikelediM
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 10:15

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Read moreEntrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

Emergency housing team dispatched to assist collapsed dam victims

Location: News

Emergency housing team dispatched to assist collapsed dam victims

Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has dispatched an emergency housing team to urgently assist displaced families whose homes were flooded when the walls of a dam collapsed in the Swartland Municipality in the Western Cape.

Kubayi said the ongoing assessment will inform what interventions required for all the affected households.

The Minister highlighted there are four categories of interventions provided by the department and these include restoration, relocation, rebuilding and repairs.

“We have directed the team to ensure that the affected households are assisted with emergency accommodation, particularly the vulnerable groups. It is unfortunate that we now have to deal with this incident, while we are still reeling from another recent disaster that left people homeless,” Kubayi said.

Kubayi said the families whose homes were affected by last week's disaster in Riverlands are being provided shelter at Riverlands Community Bakery Centre and Riverlands Church.

READ | Emergency spillway under construction to avoid further Riverlands disaster

“The team from human settlements has compiled a list of approximately 100 displaced people, who have expressed their reluctance to be moved to safer temporary accommodation, citing a need to take care of their livestock,” Kubayi said.

The Minister said the National Home Builders' Registration Council (NHBRC), which forms part of the disaster team, is currently on site will assess the structural integrity of damaged properties as soon as the water subsides.

The department commended NGOs that are already on the ground to assist victims.

Transparency in allocating houses

Meanwhile, Kubayi has reiterated the importance of transparency in allocating houses and delivering other housing programmes within the human settlements sector.

During her engagement with listeners on the Power FM breakfast show last week, Kubayi confirmed that the department is fully committed to dealing with any allegations of fraud and corruption, mainly in the allocation of fully subsidised houses, also known as Breaking New Ground (BNG).

“We are rectifying and reconfiguring our human settlements delivery system. Digitising the beneficiary list system is our main priority because it will radically improve our operations as a department.

“We have been entrusted with over R31 billion during this financial to respond to the housing needs of our people. Every cent must be accounted for and effectively used to restore the dignity of the poor and the vulnerable among us,” Kubayi said.

Kubayi was on Power FM as a special host of the breakfast show, as the country commemorates Women’s Month.

The Minister used the opportunity to invite listeners to give her tips to improve the delivery of sustainable human settlements.

Listeners raised several issues, including government's response to land invasions by capacitating municipalities to effectively deal with this challenge; conducting an audit to determine if BNG houses have been given to the rightful owners, and attending to blocked projects.

Kubayi also interviewed the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, on justice for women and the Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, on the scourge of teenage pregnancy. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 12:26

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Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Location: News

Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa

Twenty-eight year-old Mia Le Roux has won the Miss South Africa title at glitzy event held at the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria.

According to the Miss South Africa website, Le Roux she was born in Sasolburg, Free State and raised in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape. 

“She is a marketing manager, model and part-time B Com Marketing student. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing; inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers. She describes herself as resilient, dedicated, graceful and kind,” the website said.

In a post on Saturday night on the social media platform X, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said: “Congratulations to our South African Queen Mia le Roux. I know you will represent us well at Miss Universe.”

The Miss South Africa pageant describes itself as a leadership platform for ambitious young South African women. 

“Through a pageantry process, contestants receive world-renowned coaching in addition to advanced networking, business and life skills. Shaped into brand ambassadors for our country, they become champions of women’s rights, thought leaders and savvy career women who inspire other young South Africans to fulfil their potential, recognise their self-worth and find their place in the world,” the website said. - SAnews.gov.za 

nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:03

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Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

Location: News

Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

Cabinet has commended the latest addition of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.

The sites in the prestigious list include the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf farm, Sharpeville memorial, Walter Sisulu Square, 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West, University of Fort Hare and ZK Matthews House, Mqhekezweni, Waaihoek and Ohlange.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites in recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour.

These include Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay in the Western Cape, Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay also in the Western Cape and Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

“The sites termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, not only help preserve South Africa’s unique heritage, but catapults our country to prominence as a major tourist attraction for World Heritage Sites, thereby boosting tourism and the economy,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

The Minister was briefing media at a post-Cabinet briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.

READ | UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa

South Africans are living longer

Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the Mid-Year Population Estimates (MYPE) for 2024, which showed that South Africans are living longer.

The MYPE shows that life expectancy has increased to 66.5 years from 53.6 years in 2005 due to multiple government interventions, including the expanded rollout of antiretroviral therapy - which is one of the largest antiretroviral therapy programme in the world.

The estimates also show the provision of vaccinations and the decrease in the infant mortality rate from an estimated 57 infant deaths per 1000 live births in 2002 to 22.9 per 1000 live births in 2024.

“South Africa’s population now exceeded 63 million, growing 1.33 percent from July 2023 to July 2024. The updated population growth figures will assist government in its planning and resource allocation as we continue to better the life of all South Africans,” Ntshavheni said.

High-tech rail infrastructure

Cabinet has also commended the introduction of new high-tech trains on the Central Line in the City of Cape Town by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). PRASA is an agency of the Department of Transport.

The service has been extended from Nyanga to Mandalay station.

Ntshavheni highlighted that the trains utilise modern signalling system from Langa to Mutual Line, to enhance the safety and reliability of the rail service.

“The modern hi-tech features in these trains include automated doors, and CCTVs for each coach are for improved passenger safety,” the Minister said.

Cabinet has further commended the recovery of more rail lines part of government’s priority of providing safe, reliable and affordable public transport.

READ | PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town

This as Cabinet held its first normal meeting of the seventh administration at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:38

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Read moreCabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

Minister Groenewald intervenes in gang leader’s prison transfer

Location: News

Minister Groenewald intervenes in gang leader’s prison transfer

Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald has  intervened in the transfer of the notorious leader of the 28s prison gang, George “Geweld” Thomas, to the Helderstroom Prison in the Western Cape. 

This follows an outcry from community leaders due to the high risk Thomas’ presence may pose to communities of the province.

Thomas is serving at least 175 years imprisonment after his conviction in 2015 on more than 50 charges including:
   • Seven counts of murder
   • Three counts of attempted murder
   • Eleven counts of illegally possessing firearms
   • Ten counts of illegally possessing ammunition
   • Two counts of racketeering
   • Three counts of belonging to a criminal gang
   • Three counts of conspiracy to commit a crime
   • Ten counts of inciting the commitment of a crime
   • One count of housebreaking with the intent to commit robbery
   • Three counts of theft

“We will work with communities on an ongoing basis to improve the system and maximise the positive change it can bring to vulnerable communities,” Groenwald said.

The department explained in a statement that Thomas has been “swiftly redirected” to an alternative maximum-security facility.

“The department will also urgently investigate the matter thoroughly to identify the reasons for the prisoner’s irregular movement.

“Emphasising the need for community engagement, the Minister also today [Tuesday] had a meeting with community representatives part of the Cape Crime Crisis Coalition to engage on concerns and possible interventions to minimise the presence of bad actors in communities ridden with gang-related violence,” the department concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 09:59

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NSFAS processes payment for qualifying beneficiaries

Location: News

NSFAS processes payment for qualifying beneficiaries

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Administrator, Freeman Nomvalo, says the scheme has been able to constantly process payments for all the beneficiaries who have submitted their banking details.

Addressing the media on the developments in the implementation of his mandate on Tuesday, Nomvalo highlighted that one of the urgent interventions made by the new Administrator was to migrate the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) NSFAS beneficiaries into a direct payment system through their banker.

This follows frustrations experienced by students in receiving their allowances.

Nomvalo said from the data received, about 6% of students are not receiving their allowance because they either failed the verification process due to incorrect information they provided, while some did not capture their banking details.

Nomvalo said, despite various efforts made by NSFAS to get these students to capture their banking details, the students have not responded.

“There are possible two scenarios; one that, these students have no means to reach us, possibly the messages did not reach them or regrettably, some of these could be non-existent students. What is more worrying is that to date we have not received complaints from students who may have not received their allowances,” Nomvalo said. 

He said NSFAS will continue to engage with institutions and students to submit their details for their allowances to be paid in the next payment run, while investigating the validity and existence of these students.

On the university payments, Nomvalo reported that the administration has taken a decision to extend the current arrangement with universities facilitating payment of allowances to NSFAS beneficiaries. 

He said the arrangement, which follows consultations with the South Africa Universities South Africa (USAF), is extended until the end of the 2024 academic year. 

“This decision arrived in response to USAF and in support of the beneficiaries, as well as the stability of the Post School Education and Training (PSET) system,” Nomvalo said.

The Administrator added that the scheme also intends to migrate the university allowances to a more cost effective and efficient payment system. 

“The planning for the migration of universities was halted by the interdict warded in favour of Ezaga and others by the Western Cape High Court on 12 July 2024, which NSFAS is appealing,” he said.

ICT system delays conclusion of student appeals 

Meanwhile, Nomvalo said the delays in finalising student appeals, loans, and the 2023/2024 funded lists, is directly connected to the current NSFAS ICT system. 

Nomvalo noted that the only default position at this stage is to constantly introduce a manual process of verification, which is “completely cumbersome and over overstretching staff.”

He said in 2023 alone, NSFAS received about two million applications.

“It is almost impossible to expect NSFAS staff to manually conduct verification of these applications at some point in the value chain [and] such a work environment is undoubtedly prone to errors,” Nomvalo said.

He announced that with additional capacity acquired, NSFAS will be communicating with universities, including TVET colleges and students on final lists, not later than end of August 2024.

“On behalf of NSFAS we wish to express our sincere apologies to the affected students and our colleagues in the PSET system. We are working hard to ensure the 2025 academic year is less burdened with the same issues,” Nomvalo said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 08/07/2024 - 10:03

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Two more Mpox cases recorded in Gauteng and KZN

Location: News

Two more Mpox cases recorded in Gauteng and KZN

The Department of Health has called for ongoing public vigilance against Mpox disease as two more laboratory-confirmed infections have been detected in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. 

According to the department, the recent cases come 26 days after the last cases of Mpox were reported in South Africa. 

This means that the total number of cases stand at 24, of which 12 were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape. 

Meanwhile, the number of deaths linked to the disease remains three.

According to data, the latest case is a 36-year-old man from KwaZulu-Natal who was admitted at a local public health facility in Durban late in July after he experienced an Mpox-like rash along with fatigue, muscle pain and rigour. 

“The patient has no international travel history,” the department explained. 

The Gauteng case involves a 20-year-old man seen at a private health facility in Johannesburg on Friday, 2 August. 

“The case presented with typical Mpox lesions. He confirmed his international travel history to Peru in South America. It is uncertain if the exposure occurred in Peru or South Africa.” 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) multi-country Mpox outbreak, Peru is among the countries with a high number of positive cases in the Americas region.

The department said contact tracing and monitoring activities are ongoing in the affected communities in both provinces.

It urged all the identified contacts to cooperate with health officials during contact tracing for screening and possible diagnosis to prevent further transmission of this preventable and treatable disease.

Meanwhile, as per data, of the 22 cases recorded between 8 May and 6 July, 19 of them have fully recovered. 

“All people with suspected symptoms are reminded to visit the nearest healthcare facility right away for clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment options, instead of self-diagnosing and isolation.”

In addition, the department confirmed the arrival of another batch of Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, donated by the WHO as part of ongoing support to the country’s response efforts to this preventable and manageable disease. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 11:00

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