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Clarins Is Celebrating the Launch of Double Serum 9 – The Latest Generation of Its Iconic Anti-ageing Double Serum – With a Dynamic Pop-up Shopping Experience at Sandton City’s Central Court

Location: MyPR

The immersive experience, which opened with a glamorous event on 18 September, is a showcase not only for this best-selling product, but for the entire Clarins range, allowing long-time fans and those who have newly discovered the brand to explore its different facets with a host of exciting activations. “Our Double Serum is one of …

Read moreClarins Is Celebrating the Launch of Double Serum 9 – The Latest Generation of Its Iconic Anti-ageing Double Serum – With a Dynamic Pop-up Shopping Experience at Sandton City’s Central Court

Gauteng NCOP Delegation Recommends Criminal Action Against Errant Project Developers Contractors

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The NCOP Gauteng delegation conducted a successful oversight visit to unfinished and abandoned human settlements, health, education, and road projects in the West Rand and Sedibeng regions on Wednesday.

The visit is part of the week-long NCOP Provincial Week Programme, held under the theme “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities.”

The Provincial Week Programme aims to provide permanent delegates to the NCOP and their counterparts from the Gauteng Provincial Legislature with an opportunity to conduct oversight visits to various community development structures, including incomplete road projects, housing projects and other delayed or abandoned public infrastructure projects in the province. These oversight sessions involve officials and managers from affected districts and provincial and national government departments.

Among the abandoned projects visited by the delegation yesterday was the Montrose Mega Project in Randfontein. The project started in 2017 and is expected to yield 13 792 mixed typologies upon completion.

Briefing the delegation on the challenges, interventions and way forward, the provincial Department of Human Settlements said the project had faced various challenges, such as non-performance by the developer, as he failed to resume site in January 2024. The developer also failed to disclose a liquidation order issued by the court against him in 2023 in favour of contractors. The delegation was informed that the developer failed to pay the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which he appointed as his service providers. The abandoned project is now facing a serious problem of vandalism of the units.

As part of the interventions, the department reported that it sought a legal opinion on the options available to act against the developer and a notice of termination was issued. The delegation was told that three criminal cases had been opened for the vandalism of the infrastructure, and some of the perpetrators had been brought to justice.

The department further reported that, as part of the way forward, they are appointing a security company to protect the remaining infrastructure and will commence negotiations with the land owner on acquiring the land.

The delegation also visited the Rus-Ter-Vaal Secondary School. The project was initiated in 2016 and set for construction in 2018. A contractor was appointed and initiated the construction process but abandoned the site without completing the project.

The delegation was told that the project remains abandoned as of August 2024. The department is set to appoint a contractor and hand over the site to the contractor by the end of September.

The MEC for Education committed to providing regular feedback to the NCOP on this delayed project and ensured that the contractors' contract would be terminated where there were unjustifiable delays.

The NCOP Gauteng delegation also conducted oversight at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging. Construction of the hospital started in 2021, with an original completion date of August 2022. The appointed contractor could not finish the project, and their contract was terminated.

The delegation was very concerned about the state of the Kopanong Hospital, which is in decay. The abandoned, incomplete wards were meant to accommodate emergency patients during COVID-19, but the contractor failed to finish the job.

The delegation also visited the R82 Old Johannesburg Road in Walkerville. The Initial consultant was terminated due to poor performance. A new consulting engineer was appointed on 23 August 2024. The delegation was informed that the project is scheduled to recommence the first week of October 2024. The contractor is mobilising to return to the site at the beginning of September 2024.

Some of the challenges facing the project include the encroachment of 10 households on the site—intervention to relocate the residents is being sought.

The delegation further visited the Bekkerdal Care of the Age Centre, New Simunye High School in Westonaria, and the Lethabong Mega Project in Sebokeng. The delegation applauded the Lethabong Mega Project, as it was the only site progressing well among all the visited projects.

The delegation, led by Ms Jane Mananiso, NCOP Gauteng Provincial Whip, recommended that criminal cases be opened against developers who are at fault for any of the projects' issues.

Highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency, Ms Mananiso said public representatives must ensure that every rand spent on infrastructure development translates into tangible benefits for the people. “The NCOP's oversight provides an invaluable mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency, and I have no doubt that your engagements with us this week will help strengthen the systems that underpin effective governance,” she said.

The delegation is today, Thursday, 19 September, conducting oversight visits to projects around the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane regions. The projects include:

  • - Bakerton Library in Springs
  • - Barcelona Primary in Daveyton
  • - Semphato Junior Secondary School in Soshanguve
  • - Transoranje LSEN - Pretoria
  • - Women Living Monument in Pretoria

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

Read moreGauteng NCOP Delegation Recommends Criminal Action Against Errant Project Developers Contractors

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

The most fitting tribute to Gordhan is to reflect on our own actions – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

The most fitting tribute to Gordhan is to reflect on our own actions – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on leaders and South Africans alike to reflect on the lessons drawn from the life and activism of the late former Cabinet Minister Pravin Gordhan. 

The President urged individuals to embody the values of integrity, courage, and service that defined his leadership.

President Ramaphosa was addressing mourners at Gordhan’s special official funeral held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in eThekwini on Thursday.

"There are a great many lessons we can draw from his life and from his political activism. The most fitting tribute we can pay to him is to reflect on our own actions.

“To consider what we can and should each do to serve our country. To reflect on what it means to be an activist. To consider if we are prepared to weather the great storms that so often confront acts of courage and integrity. It is in times of difficulty that moral courage is valued most. It is at times of renewal and rebuilding that activism is most needed,” the President said. 

As South Africa continues to recover from its challenges, President Ramaphosa said government will rely on men and women of integrity to help steer the nation toward a new era. 

He described Gordhan as one such leader, whose courage and unwavering commitment to the country’s democratic values will continue to inspire future generations.

“As we strive to rebuild our country, as the Government of National Unity, we will rely on men and women of integrity, honour and courage to support us, to hold us to account, and to help shepherd in a new era for South Africa and its people.

“Pravin Gordhan’s spear has fallen. Let us together pick it up,” President Ramaphosa said, invoking a powerful symbol of the nation’s collective responsibility. 

He acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by Gordhan’s family throughout his years of public service, expressing the nation's shared sorrow at the loss of a devoted husband, father, and brother.

As the nation bids farewell to one of its most dedicated public servants, President Ramaphosa concluded his tribute with a poignant message, quoting the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore: "Give me the strength lightly to bear my joys and sorrows. Give me the strength to make my love fruitful in service."

In remembering Gordhan, the President praised his commitment to standing for the poor, his refusal to bow to injustice, and his resilience in the face of personal attacks. 

"Where many tried to bring you low with their insults, your feet remained firmly on the high ground. And now you have surrendered your strength to the will of the Creator,” he said. 

Gordhan’s legacy, the President stressed, is one of service, integrity, and love for the people of South Africa.

 "You were a much admired, much respected, and much loved comrade, colleague, leader, and friend. Rest in peace, good and faithful servant of the people,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 15:40

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Read moreThe most fitting tribute to Gordhan is to reflect on our own actions – President Ramaphosa

Gender equality is contingent on women’s economic development

Location: News

Gender equality is contingent on women's economic development

Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Director-General, Advocate Mikateko Maluleke, says gender equality is contingent on women's economic development and financial independence.

“Worldwide, history and research has demonstrated that women’s economic empowerment increases their access to economic resources and opportunities including jobs, financial services, property and other productive assets, skills development and market information,” Maluleke said.

She highlighted that for South Africa, this outlook has translated itself in vast areas of development where women are taking the reins and actively contributing to their country’s development agenda.

“South Africa’s economic empowerment mechanisms for promoting the status of women, fully utilising government resources and effectively mobilising social resources lays an important foundation in the promotion of gender equality and women’s development,” Maluleke said.

The DG was speaking on Thursday at the Women for Social Progression session held during the BRICS Women’s Forum currently underway in St. Petersburg, Russia.

The Eurasian Women’s Forum is an influential international platform that enables women leaders from all continents to engage in dialogue and adopt joint decisions on key issues concerning international cooperation, sustainable economic development, the assimilation of new technologies, a healthy lifestyle, environmental safety, and the promotion of social charitable projects.

Maluleke pointed out that shared commitment across all sectors to support, grow, empower, and recognise women leaders not only promotes fairness, but it also improves the performance of state companies and organisations.

She said empowered, inspired, and developed women are critical to improving any country’s global competitiveness and “this is equally the legacy that will be passed over to future generations”.

“Gender equality and empowered women are catalysts for multiplying development efforts and positively positioning the competitiveness of countries as an attractive investment destination.

“Women are architects of society and are revered for their strength in building the family unit and homes, as well as their contributions to the communities, societies and nations,” Maluleke said. She emphasised the importance of integrating digital technologies into all areas of business, changing how economic and social activities are conducted.

While digital technology can bring tremendous opportunities, Maluleke acknowledged that it can also widen socioeconomic gaps for those who lack internet connectivity, affordable devices, or the skills to benefit from digital services.

She said vulnerable people and groups who do not have training in digital skills are equally more susceptible to online risks including fraud, data disclosure, identify theft and cyberbullying.

Maluleke also noted that while the digitalisation of social protection presents immense opportunities for delivering welfare services more efficiently and effectively, it also raises critical challenges related to data protection, data poverty, and bias and discrimination.

“Protecting sensitive data, ensuring privacy through consent, and minimising surveillance risks are crucial for maintaining trust and upholding individual rights. Addressing the digital divide and providing alternative methods for inclusion will ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind in the transition to digital systems,” the Director-General said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 14:27

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Read moreGender equality is contingent on women’s economic development

Young People Living With HIV Urge World Leaders to Partner With Them AIDS Response

Location: News

United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)
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With support from UNAIDS, two young social media influencers living with HIV are on their way to the United Nations General Assembly and the Summit of the Future in New York to urge world leaders to partner with them in the response to HIV. Ibanomonde Ngema from South Africa and Jerop Limo from Kenya will call on leaders to invest in youth-friendly health systems, provide holistic services for young people living with HIV, and to partner with young people and communities, allowing them to lead in the response to HIV.

“Young people's powerful and vibrant activism has driven so much of the progress made in the HIV response,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “They know what works for them. It is essential for leaders to listen to them to understand the specific challenges that young people face and how those challenges can be overcome. Leaders can only successfully plan how to end AIDS and sustain the advances made by partnering with young people living with HIV.”

“I am representing not only the voices of 1.5 million Kenyans living with HIV but all people living with HIV,” said Jerop Limo, a young Kenyan HIV activist. “I want leaders to leave New York knowing that we are not beneficiaries, we are equal rights holders. We have a voice, we have skills and expertise and we need an equal playing field where our data is valued, where our input is valued and where our voices are heard. We want meaningful and ethical engagement of adolescents and young people in all spaces of the AIDS response.”

Young people, especially adolescent girls and young women, are disproportionately affected by HIV. Globally, 44% of all new HIV infections were among women and girls (all ages) in 2023 and every week 4000 young women and girls around the world are infected with HIV—3100 are in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2023, some 3.1 million adolescents and young people (15-24 yrs) were living with HIV—1.9 million were adolescent girls and young women.

“Governments meeting here in New York cannot end AIDS alone. They need to involve us to find solutions. We have lived experiences of HIV, from treatment to mental health, because we navigate life with HIV every day. We need to be included in policymaking so that we can take full ownership of ending end AIDS as a public threat,” said Ibanomonde Ngema, a young South African AIDS activist. “The world can only benefit when young people are included in the global HIV response. No conversation about HIV should take place without us, from policy to practice in communities.”

Too often young people report facing stigma and discrimination, including from doctors and healthcare workers, when they access sexual and reproductive health and HIV services. This discourages them from seeking support and crucial information about their health, putting them at risk of HIV infection or of defaulting on treatment for those who are living with HIV.

Involvement of young people in the HIV response

Young people living with HIV play a critical role in the fight against AIDS in communities. They offer support and share important information about HIV that schools or parents might not talk about. They also challenge stigma and discrimination through social media, helping to save lives and encourage young people to stay on treatment.

They drive innovation in communities, for example, a self-funded project by the Youth Empowerment Group uses e-bikes to deliver antiretroviral medicines, food and adherence support to young people who often cannot attend clinics because their schooling hours conflict with clinic opening times in Namibia.

However, their transformational work is being held back because it is not being sufficiently supported. Youth-led HIV responses often operate with little or no financial and political support. At the UNGA the two young people will call on world leaders to fully support and fund their work. They will also urge leaders to uphold the human rights of young people as key to ending AIDS as a public health threat—they will call on them to protect young people's right to healthcare, education, freedom of speech, and to provide social support to young people living with HIV.

“Providing treatment is not enough, young people living with HIV need an education and they need a job to survive,” added Jerop Limo. “We need to be seen as equal contributors and partners, and we need investment to allow us drive change. We are the leaders of the future and we need to be included now to help shape a better future for us all.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

Read moreYoung People Living With HIV Urge World Leaders to Partner With Them AIDS Response

SA signs reviewed joint declaration with Germany to boost urban development

Location: News

SA signs reviewed joint declaration with Germany to boost urban development

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, and his German counterpart Federal Minister of Building, Klara Geywitz, have signed a declaration of intent to strengthen relations.

According to the department, the declaration signed on Tuesday renews the commitment to close the exchange that has existed since 2013 with the initial agreement.

The future cooperation themes include enhanced collaboration in integrated urban development across all administrative levels and joint efforts to ensure increased public participation in urban development issues.

The signing of the reviewed Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) took place on the sidelines of the 17th Federal Congress on National Urban Development Policy in Heidelberg, Germany.

Hosted by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building, in conjunction with the Conference of German Building Ministers and top city associations, the congress aims to facilitate crucial discussions on the future of urban spaces.

Speaking at the signing of the reviewed JDI, Hlabisa said it marked a significant milestone in their ongoing partnership.

“This collaboration, which has flourished for over a decade, continues to enrich both our nations. By sharing expertise and engaging in joint efforts to enhance urban development, we are not only addressing the needs of our cities but also setting a global standard for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“This partnership shows how working together and learning from each other can make a big difference in improving our communities. By sharing ideas and solutions, we can create better and safer places for everyone.

"It’s proof that when we join forces and support each other, we can build a better future for all,” the Minister said.

Geywitz also welcomed the signing of the reviewed JDI, saying they were continuing the close and enriching collaboration with South Africa that has lasted for over 10 years.

“It is a joint commitment to further intensive, trusting and cordial cooperation. The exchange with South Africa – both with our partner ministry and with the municipalities and civil society – gives us valuable insights into administrative action and planning practice in South Africa. These perspectives and approaches to solutions help us a lot in our work,” she said.

In addition to an active exchange of expertise on national urban development policies and their implementation programmes in Germany and South Africa, there has been a further focus on inter-municipal learning networks between the two countries’ municipalities, city associations and national governments since 2016.

“The current network with the cities of KwaDukuza, Nelson Mandela Bay, Stellenbosch, uMhlathuze, Bottrop, Karlsruhe, Ludwigsburg and Nuremberg deals with the question of how urban districts can be made livable and safe for everyone, especially for marginalised groups such as women and girls, and how equal access to public spaces can be ensured.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 11:28

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The Maternity Support Grant is a government initiative

Location: News

The Maternity Support Grant is a government initiative

By Lumka Oliphant

Government remains committed to building a better South Africa for all, as envisaged by former President Nelson Mandela.

The more we get things right and strengthen legislation and policies, the more the target seems to outpace the five years of any single administration.  One such example is anything related to social assistance or social grants.

Last week, two things caught my eye around social assistance that I think we need to talk openly and honestly about: 
1. The maternity benefits or pregnancy grant as it was framed, and 
2. The supposed underspending by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) of R4 billion on the grant – the second one being the most contentious one.

Let us deal with the first one quickly. I would  have loved to delve deeper on the R4 billion supposed underspending but it is a subject of a court challenge and these facts will be part of the court case.

So, it would be premature to discuss these in the public domain.

The Maternal Support Grant (MSG) Draft Policy has been in the making by the Department of Social Development since 2012, when the department commissioned a study on the feasibility of introducing maternity benefits in South Africa.

At the time, the study sought to investigate state support options for vulnerable pregnant women.

The study was necessitated, amongst others, by the acknowledgement and recognition of the constitutional provision that everyone has the right to have access to social security and that those who are unable to support themselves and their dependents should access appropriate social assistance (Section 27, (1) (C) of the Constitution).

Following the conclusion of the study, an interdepartmental task team (IDTT) was formed.  It was led by the departments of Health and Social Development, and included the SASSA, and the departments of Basic Education, Higher Education, Home Affairs, Justice and Labour, among others.

The team was also supported by national and international organisations with a particular focus on addressing stunting in South Africa – they provided technical support.

A workshop held in 2015 acknowledged all the pregnancy-related services offered across government, coming to the conclusion that there was a need to link them, hence the institution of the task team.

The central objective of the MSG Draft Policy is to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable pregnant women who are unable to support or take care of themselves.

It intends to introduce a state social assistance provision for vulnerable pregnant women in order to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable mothers and their unborn children.

The draft policy also aims to provide an MSG linked to related services from the first trimester up to the first 1000 days of a child’s life.

It is also expected to assist the Department of Home Affairs in its effort to register all births in South Africa within 30 days of birth.

Policy-making is a very rigorous process, which begins with research to gather evidence, developing a discussion document and subsequently a policy document.

This policy is no exception, and to this end, the discussion and draft policy document were extensively consulted across government, civil society, organised labour as well as potential beneficiaries.

Subsequent to having extensively consulted the discussion paper prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department conducted extensive consultations around the country – between May 2022 and March 2023, wherein a total of 27 consultations were completed.

The draft policy has already been taken to the Social Protection, Community and Human Development Cluster – a normal government policy process – and has been given the green light for tabling at Cabinet for consideration for public comments.

It should be noted that this is a policy of government and should be contextualised as such.

Should Cabinet support the draft policy for public comments, we will encourage all interested parties at the right time to raise their voices so that we can strengthen our child protection services within the first 1000 days of a child.

Lumka Oliphant is the Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services at the Department of Social Development.

 

Neo
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 08:38

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Community Workshop to Develop a Gender Plan of Action for South African Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Small-Scale Fisheries

Location: News

The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR)
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In recognition of the critical role that gender plays in the sustainability and success of small-scale fisheries, AU-IBAR, Mabuyi Development Planners, and he Blue Wild Coast Non-Profit Organization (South Africa) are hosting a two-day community workshop in East London, South Africa. The workshop, running from September 18-19, 2024, aims to develop a Gender Plan of Action for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in small-scale fisheries to support aquatic biodiversity conservation efforts in South Africa. This event serves as a vital platform to address gender disparities in the fisheries sector, amplify the voices of women, and establish gender-sensitive policies and strategies.

Objective of the Workshop

The workshop engages stakeholders from various sectors to co-create and enrich a Gender Policy Document for environmental NGOs. Specifically, it seeks to mainstream gender into aquatic biodiversity conservation and environmental management efforts. Through this collaborative process, the event addresses gender inequalities in small-scale fisheries, enhances female participation in decision-making, and ensures that women's roles are better recognized across the fisheries value chain.

Participants and Stakeholders

This multi-stakeholder event brings together representatives from AU-IBAR, government agencies, local cooperatives, private sector actors, and gender advocacy organizations, including the South African Network for Women in Fisheries (SANWFA) and the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET). Collectively, these organizations focus on strengthening the roles of women and youth in small-scale fisheries and advancing gender mainstreaming in the sector.

Opening Remarks and Keynotes

The first day of the workshop opens with welcoming remarks from the Blue Wild Coast NPO, emphasizing the importance of civil society in empowering communities with fishing rights and elevating the often-overlooked contributions of women in fisheries.

- Ms. Francisca Mhuriro, who represented the Director of AU-IBAR, delivered an address, emphasising the need for gender equality in aquatic biodiversity conservation. “Equal participation of both men and women in conserving aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems is crucial for Africa's blue economy development,” she stated. “Yet, women are often marginalized in decision-making due to cultural norms. These constraints limit their access to resources and participation in the sector.” Ms. Mhuriro highlights frameworks such as the Beijing Declaration and Malabo Declaration, which call for affirmative actions to include women in economic opportunities and urges participants to adopt inclusive approaches in fisheries management.

- Mr. Zamkhaya Maseti, representing the Premier's Office of the Eastern Cape, shared insights into the Eastern Cape province's Blue Oceans Economy Master Plan, developed in partnership with Nelson Mandela University. “For our province to realize its potential in the blue economy, access to equipment and capacity-building for women is crucial,” he noted. Maseti called for more partnerships with civil society organisations to empower coastal communities, urging for protection from exploitation by external investors.

- Ms. Thabisa Sigwela, from the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster, spoke about her organization's work supporting projects related to coastal marine tourism, ocean governance, and small harbor development. “South Africa's 3,000-kilometer coastline is vital for improving the livelihoods of coastal communities,” she noted. Sigwela stressed the need for strategies that balance the exploitation of natural resources with long-term sustainability, emphasizing the importance of involving rural communities, especially women and youth, in these initiatives.

- Ms. Mashebane Thosago, representing SANWFA and AWFISHNET, called for greater female leadership in the fisheries sector. “Gender issues affect every aspect of our lives, and women must be at the forefront of shaping policies that influence their livelihoods,” she stated. Thosago encouraged participants to engage openly in discussions, noting that while sensitive issues may arise, such dialogue is necessary to foster inclusivity and progress.

- Ms. Nozuko Ntsokota, from the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), addressed the barriers women face in accessing markets and infrastructure. “Market access is a significant challenge for small-scale fishers, especially women,” she noted. Ntsokota highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to open opportunities for women in fisheries cooperatives and praised the mentorship programs being developed for traditional fishers.

Workshop Structure and Themes

Throughout the workshop, participants are expected to gain valuable insights from key stakeholders who discuss current challenges and opportunities for gender equality in small-scale fisheries. The workshop is structured around several key themes:

1. Gender Mainstreaming in Fisheries: Participants will explore concepts of gender mainstreaming and how these apply to aquatic biodiversity conservation. Case studies demonstrate how gender integration can enhance sustainability in fisheries management.

2. Gender Roles in Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation: A dedicated session will examine the distinct roles men and women play in aquatic biodiversity conservation. Although women often engage in fish processing and trading, their involvement in resource management and decision-making is frequently overlooked.

3. Small Group Discussions: Participants break into stakeholder-specific groups to identify challenges faced by women in the fisheries value chain. These discussions focus on practical solutions to improve women's access to resources and leadership positions.

4. Capacity Building and Policy Development: On the second day, SANWFA will lead a session on gender analysis tools, providing participants with practical strategies for addressing gender disparities. The workshop concludes with the development of a comprehensive Gender Action Plan, which serves as a guide for NGOs working in small-scale fisheries across South Africa.

Why This Workshop Matters

Small-scale fisheries contribute significantly to food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation in South Africa. However, women remain underrepresented and face substantial barriers to participation and leadership. This workshop provides a platform to address these challenges through dialogue, gender-sensitive policy development, and capacity building.

By the end of the two-day workshop, participants are expected to create a comprehensive Gender Action Plan tailored to the realities of NGOs working in small-scale fisheries. This collaborative effort promotes more inclusive and sustainable fisheries management in South Africa, aligning with the goals of the Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity Project under the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).

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

Read moreCommunity Workshop to Develop a Gender Plan of Action for South African Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Small-Scale Fisheries

Buy Qadasi Tickets and Help Sa’s Most Successful Female Surfer Get to the Masters World Champs!

Location: MyPR

There are limited tickets available for the unmissable Heather Clark fundraiser featuring live music by Qadasi and Maqhinga on Saturday, 21 September at Waves in Umzumbe. Starting at 4pm for the Sharks v Lions rugby match, there will be food and coffee stalls on site, as well as ‘pap & sous’ on sale in celebration …

Read moreBuy Qadasi Tickets and Help Sa’s Most Successful Female Surfer Get to the Masters World Champs!

Rising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

Location: News

Rising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

The rapid increase in diabetes, particularly affecting women, is a cause for concern, says Deputy Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla.

“When looking at gender-specific causes of death, diabetes mellitus is the leading underlying cause of female deaths at 8.2% which increased from 7.7% in 2018. The rate at which diabetes is growing in our country is concerning,” he said on Monday. 

Phaahla was speaking during a roundtable discussion on the Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (HeLTI), a collaboration between national research funding agencies in Canada, China, India, South Africa and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He took the time to outline government’s plans to address the burden of the emerging non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pandemic, otherwise known as lifestyle diseases. 

Diabetes was the second leading underlying cause of death in 2020, accounting for 6.6% of all deaths. COVID-19, first detected that year, became the leading cause of death.

“Non-communicable diseases not only reduce life expectancy but also have a profound economic impact, straining both individuals and our healthcare system. 

“We must recognise the gravity of this burden which is deeply interconnected with factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol abuse, smoking and social and commercial determinants of health,” he told delegates. 

The Deputy Minister told the attendees that the department’s primary focus is prevention and it has implemented campaigns aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles. 

In addition, he said early detection of NCDs is key to effective management. 

The department has rolled out community-based screening campaigns through community health workers (CHWs) and traditional health practitioners (THPs) targeting the early detection of hypertension and diabetes. 

“Our focus is not limited to the detection of diseases but also includes education on risk factors and lifestyle modifications that can prevent the progression of these conditions.” 

According to the Deputy Minister, the department recently entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with parkrun South Africa to encourage communities to walk, jog or run on weekends. 

However, at the heart of the NCDs response is strengthening the country’s primary healthcare (PHC) services. 
“PHC facilities across the country are being equipped to manage and monitor patients with chronic conditions effectively. The department is working to ensure that treatment for NCDs is both accessible and affordable.”

He mentioned regulatory interventions such as the tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, implemented to reduce premature death from NCDs.

There are also regulations relating to trans-fats in foodstuffs which prohibit the sale, manufacture and importation of oils and fats, including continuous phase emulsions, either alone or as part of processed foods. 

There are regulations concerning food for infants and young children, as well as the reduction of sodium in certain food items to help lower salt intake to less than 5g per day.

“Excessive salt intake is associated with hypertension which is the second leading cause of death in South Africa and hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.”

Phaahla believes the battle against lifestyle diseases is far from over. However, with the right interventions and a collective effort from all sectors of society, he is of the view that it can reduce the burden in the country. 

“The findings of Statistics South Africa survey that deaths due to major non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic lower respiratory diseases in South Africa increased over 20 years, should be a concern for all of us.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 09:52

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Read moreRising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

Ending the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Suicide in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, September, 17, 2024: September is World Suicide Prevention Month, a time to talk about a challenging topic that many avoid. In South Africa, it’s estimated that one person dies by suicide every hour. This heartbreaking statistic affects families, friends, and entire communities nationwide. The Seriousness of Suicide in South Africa South Africa has one …

Read moreEnding the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Suicide in South Africa

Government activities for the week 16 – 20 September

Location: News

Government activities for the week 16 – 20 September

On Monday, 16 September, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Bernice Swarts officially opens the International Solid Waste Association World Congress at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

On Tuesday, 17 September, the Commission for Gender Equality in the Eastern Cape province will hold a stakeholder engagement to discuss findings and recommendations contained in its investigative report on “State of maternity and neonatal healthcare in the Eastern Cape”.

The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo and Air Show takes place from 18 – 22 September.

On Wednesday, 18 September, The Meta for Government Summit, a collaborative endeavour by Meta in partnership with the Ministry in the Presidency and the GCIS, takes place from 9am to 4pm at the Killarney Country Club in Johannesburg.

Also on Wednesday, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga will deliver the opening remarks at the Eurasian Women’s Forum under the theme: “Women for Strengthening Trust and Global Cooperation”.

On Thursday, 19 September, Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga leads a BRICS Ministerial Meeting for Women’s Affairs in Russia.

 

 

Janine
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 12:52

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 16 – 20 September

Deputy President in good health

Location: News

Deputy President in good health

The Presidency says Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in good health after he felt unwell during an event in Limpopo on Saturday.

The Deputy President attended the N’wamitwa Day celebrations at the Valoyi Cultural Village in Tzaneen, Limpopo.

While delivering his keynote address, the Deputy President felt lightheaded from the heat and was attended to by his medical team. 

Following the incident, the Presidency issued a statement on Saturday confirming that he had received the necessary medical attention and was well.

On Sunday his office issued a further update, saying the Deputy President was in good health.

“Following the unfortunate incident yesterday, the Office of the Deputy President confirms that Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is in good health.

“This is consistent with the doctor’s report yesterday. He is in high spirits and is resting at home following his travel back to his home yesterday,” said his office.

The Presidency thanked the team that supports the Deputy President from the Presidential Protection Service and the Presidential Medical Unit for their speedy response in attending to the Deputy President and ensuring that he is in good health.

“The Deputy President also thanks all South Africans for their support and prayers.” 

N’waMitwa Day unites vital aspects of democratic society

Meanwhile, in his prepared speech, Deputy President Mashatile said the 16th anniversary of N’waMitwa Day united vital aspects of the democratic society and demonstrated the country's progress in advancing the constitutional values of gender equality and non-sexism.

He said Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N'waMitwa II's accession to the throne symbolised resilience and progress in the country's ongoing journey to realise women's full potential in leadership roles.

"Her path inspires all, particularly the millions of South African women whose voices and contributions are essential in shaping our nation’s future. We are proud that you have upended patriarchy by claiming your rightful place on the Valoyi royal throne. 

"You have demonstrated to women that their role extends beyond the norm, and they can assume leadership positions in society, performing equally or better than men. What remains is that we must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out the persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which continue to erode social cohesion in South Africa." – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 14:56

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Read moreDeputy President in good health

Deputy President well after N’wamitwa Day celebrations address

Location: News

Deputy President well after N’wamitwa Day celebrations address

The Presidency has given the assurance that Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, is well after he collapsed during the N’wamitwa Day celebrations in Tzaneen, Limpopo.

Mashatile attended the N’wamitwa Day celebrations at the Valoyi Cultural Village in Tzaneen on Saturday.

The Deputy President, in his capacity as Chairperson of the Presidential Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, addressed the celebrations under the theme “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom”.

While delivering his keynote address, the Deputy President felt lightheaded from the heat and was attended to by his medical team.

“We can confirm that the Deputy President has received the necessary medical attention and is well,” said Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, Keith Khoza, in a statement. 

N’waMitwa Day unites vital aspects of democratic society

In his prepared speech, Deputy President Mashatile said the 16th anniversary of N’waMitwa Day united vital aspects of the democratic society and demonstrated the country's progress in advancing the constitutional values of gender equality and non-sexism . 

He said Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N'waMitwa II's accession to the throne symbolised resilience and progress in the country's ongoing journey to realise women's full potential in leadership roles.

"Her path inspires all, particularly the millions of South African women whose voices and contributions are essential in shaping our nation’s future. We are proud that you have upended patriarchy by claiming your rightful place on the Valoyi royal throne. 

"You have demonstrated to women that their role extends beyond the norm, and they can assume leadership positions in society, performing equally or better than men. What remains is that we must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out the persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which continue to erode social cohesion in South Africa." – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 08:24

468 views
Read moreDeputy President well after N’wamitwa Day celebrations address