Category: News

The Woodyglen community in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal will now enjoy cost savings and reduced energy consumption as the area goes green following the installation of new solar geysers in their households.

In a move towards embracing green energy, the eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has completed the installation of solar geysers in 700 homes in Woodyglen.

The project aims to significantly reduce electricity consumption and costs for residents.

Ward 6 councillor, Bless Majola, commended the project’s completion and announced plans for expansion of the project into other areas of the ward.

Majola said the municipality has ensured the transfer of skills during the installation process.

“Young people from the community have been trained to install and maintain the geysers, creating around 30 temporary jobs. We expect to employ more young people as the project progresses,” Majola said.

Project Manager of Gemmed Services, Lungelo Ngcobo, emphasised the geysers’ durability, with a lifespan of up to 15 years and a one-year warranty.

“Our work adheres to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy standards. Beyond installation, we prioritise skills transfer to empower the community for future maintenance needs,” Ngcobo said.

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has extended his condolences to the families of the three people who tragically lost their lives in a fire at the Garden Route National Park in Knysna.

The fire broke out at the Tree Top Chalet on 18 July 2024 where two South African National Parks (SANParks) staff and one non-SANParks person died.

Ranger Services was notified of smoke permeating near the forest and upon investigation found the chalet ablaze. Emergency services were dispatched from the Bitou Municipality Fire Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS) were called.

“Our hearts are heavy with sorrow following the devastating fire at Garden Route National Park that claimed three precious lives. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy. We are committed to providing all necessary support during this difficult time,” the Minister said on Thursday.

During the process of managing and containing the fire, three bodies which were burnt beyond recognition, were discovered. An inquest has been opened with the police and the process of identifying the bodies through DNA testing is underway.

The names of the deceased will be disclosed once the identification process has been finalised.

“SANParks is in regular contact with the SAPS and in close liaison with and providing support to the families during this most difficult time. With the matter still under investigation, I appeal for space and respect to the family members,” George said.

The African Development Bank Group has approved a R18.85 billion ($1 billion) corporate loan to Transnet for its recovery and growth plans.

Transnet has faced operational challenges mainly in the critical rail and port businesses resulting from underinvestment in infrastructure and equipment, theft and vandalism, and external shocks such as floods and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We appreciate the support demonstrated by the African Development Bank. The loan extended by the bank will make a significant contribution to Transnet’s capital investment plan to stabilise and improve the rail network and to contribute to the broader South African economy.

“The accompanying grant funding to the loan will also greatly assist Transnet with its energy efficiency efforts and with Infrastructure Project Preparation initiatives,” Group Chief Executive of Transnet Michelle Phillips said.

The 25-year loan, which was approved by the African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors on 12 July 2024 is fully guaranteed by the government of South Africa.

It will facilitate the first phase of the company’s R152.8  billion ($8. 1 billion) five-year capital investment plan to improve its existing capacity ahead of expansion for the priority segments throughout the transport value chain.

“The company is committed to addressing past challenges, fostering integrity, and enhancing efficiency within the organization. It has made progress in some key areas, including reforms in governance procurement and financial management,” a joint statement by Transnet and the African Development Bank said.

Recovery Plan

In October 2023, Transnet launched its recovery plan, which seeks to rehabilitate infrastructure and accelerate the relaunch of operations over 18 months, focusing on restoring operational performance and freight volumes to meet customer demands.

“Transnet, the custodian of South Africa’s critical transport and logistics infrastructure, plays an indispensable role in the economy of the country, ensuring a competitive freight system and serving as a gateway to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

“Our partnership will enable Transnet to execute a comprehensive Recovery Plan (RP), addressing operational inefficiencies, particularly in rail and port sectors. It is aligned with South Africa’s strategic ‘Roadmap for Freight Logistics System,’ and overseen by the National Logistics Crisis Committee, chaired at the Presidency level.

“This initiative signifies our commitment to enhancing national logistics capabilities and driving sustainable economic growth,” African Development Bank’s Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation Solomon Quaynor said.

Transnet has been a client of the African Development Bank since 2010. The company employs more than 50 000 people and plays a critical role in integrating and connecting South Africa with the global economy.

The company’s freight system’s activities contribute significantly to South Africa’s economy.

Its operations serve as key gateways for trade within South Africa and with landlocked countries in the region, such as Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo through the Port of Durban.

Police in the Eastern Cape are continuing with their efforts to clamp down on cash-in-transit robberies as well as on the proliferation of illegal firearms.

Last week, 33 firearms were confiscated in the province and coordinated efforts reflected the dedication of police officers in fighting the increase in illegal firearms, which often result in serious and violent crimes in communities.

In the OR Tambo District, on Tuesday, at about 1 am, the Tactical Response Team (TRT) in Mthatha executed a search warrant at a house in Upper Ngqwarha location, Mqanduli, while following up on information about a cash-in-transit robbery, which was committed in Mqanduli on Friday, 5 July 2024.

A 32-year-old man was found in possession of an Uzi rifle with ammunition. He was detained on a charge of possession of a prohibited firearm and illegal possession of ammunition.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the firearm was stolen from a private security company in Mqanduli, more than three years ago (February 2021).

On further questioning, the suspect led the police to a homestead in Mpunzana location, Mthatha, where a silver grey Toyota Corolla was found parked in the garage.

The vehicle was positively linked to a business robbery in Sterkspruit this month. The man is due to appear in court soon on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and illegal possession of ammunition.

The suspect is expected to be later charged with robbery of a cash-in-transit vehicle, attempted murder and malicious damage to property.

The firearm will be sent to ballistics for analysis, while the vehicle was impounded for further investigation.
Provincial South African Police Service (SAPS) Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, welcomed the arrest and the recoveries.

“The established CIT (cash-in-transit) task team consisting of members attached to TRT, DPCI (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) and tracking team is swiftly responding to the challenges of organised crimes in the province, and is showing its unwavering commitment to deal with CIT robberies.  Police will remain committed to deal decisively with criminals,” said Mene.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) will this week host the 3rd South African Conference on Essential and Vegetable Oils, bringing together 200 oil producers and stakeholders from across South Africa and Southern Africa.

The event aims to share innovative trends in the global marketplace, including various applications for essential and vegetable oils, and to address critical issues faced by this industry.

According to the department, attendees will gain valuable insights from proven experts on the most pressing challenges, equipping them with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic essential and vegetable oils sector.

Acting Deputy Director-General of Sectors at the dtic, Thandi Phele, said the upcoming conference will be a significant step in strengthening the quality of essential and vegetable oil exports from South Africa.

Phele said the conference will highlight the “technical competence and the sustainability of the National Quality Infrastructure system and the conformity assessment services that serve the selected value chains in this industry”.

SADC compliance with international standards, technical regulations and culture for quality will be addressed.

“This conference will serve as a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing and networking among key industry players. Our collaboration with SECO, UNIDO, and SAEOPA underscores our commitment to fostering growth and innovation within the essential and vegetable oils industry,” she said.

The conference will feature a series of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, focusing on:
• Innovative trends shaping the global essential and vegetable oils market
• Addressing critical challenges faced by producers and stakeholders
• Strategies for expanding market reach from local to global

Head of SECO in South Africa,  Daniel Lauchenauer, says the gathering presents an unparalleled opportunity for stakeholders to engage with industry leaders, share best practices, and forge partnerships that will drive the industry forward.

According to SAEOPA, the global essential oils market size was valued at $11 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow to $12,47 billion in 2024 and $27,82 billion by 2032.

South African exports of essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics and toiletries was $679 million during 2023, according to the United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics database on international trade.

The department will host the conference at the South African National Botanical Gardens in Pretoria from 25-26 July 2024, in partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Southern African Essential Oils Producers Association (SAEOPA),

The theme for the conference is “Local to Global: East West, Home is Best”.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill, which streamlines the support services government provided to small and medium businesses as part of broadening participation in the economy by a greater number of South Africans.

“The National Small Enterprise Amendment Act signed by the President amends the National Small Enterprise Act of 1996 to establish a new entity, the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency, which will incorporate the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFA), the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) and the Cooperative Banks Development Agency (SEDFA),” the Presidency said on Tuesday.

The SEDA and SEFA are currently located within the Department of Small Business Development.

The new Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency will function as a one-stop-shop for aspiring entrepreneurs and promote the development of the Co-operative Banking Institutions (CBIs).

“The Act also establishes the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service, which may, as part of dealing with complaints, recommend that the Minister of Small Business Development declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited unfair trading.

“Under the new law, the Minister may make regulations setting the criteria to determine the classification of micro, small and medium enterprises as well as any legislation affecting small enterprises,” the Presidency said.

Despite heightened public awareness and intensive contact tracing efforts to control the spread of the Monkeypox  disease, or Mpox, as it is known for short, South Africa has reported two additional laboratory-confirmed cases this week.

This brings the total number of infections to 22 since the first case was reported in May this year, while the death toll remains at three.

According to the Department of Health, available scientific data suggests that the disease is transmitted from person to person within the borders of the country.

“The Department of Health calls for the public to maintain vigilant and never lower their guard against Mpox disease, as the country remains on high alert for a possible surge,” the statement read.

The latest case involves a 40-year-old man who was diagnosed at a private health facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on 6 July 2024.

“The patient is from Johannesburg, Gauteng, but travelled to Durban over the past weekend, where an Mpox-like rash developed,” the department explained.

The other case involved a 26-year-old man from Nquthu in KwaZulu-Natal who presented with an Mpox-like rash at a local hospital.

“Both new cases self-identified as MSM [men who have sex with men] with no international, but local travel history.”

The department is urging people who experience any of the Mpox symptoms, with or without an international travel history, to present themselves to a health facility for clinical observation and confine themselves to one place until their test results are available.

Some of the common symptoms of Mpox include a rash, which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands.

Meanwhile, contact tracing and monitoring are ongoing in both provinces, especially amongst the close contacts of the patients, said the department.

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

The Western Cape Government (WCG) continues to provide shelter, food, and blankets to the homeless as the province faces heavy downpours, resulting in the closure of many schools.

The province announced that schools in the Cape Town metro districts, Cape Winelands and Overberg districts as well as parts of the West Coast district have closed today.

“In the interests of learner and teacher safety, and after extensive consultation with the Provincial Disaster Risk Management Centre and the South African Weather Service (SAWS), a decision has been taken to close schools in certain districts in the Western Cape [on Thursday],” Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, said on Wednesday.

According to the MEC, all other schools in the remaining districts will be open unless approval has been granted for closure.

“Our default position is always to keep schools open but are mindful of the severity of the warnings in place and the damage already caused in certain areas.

“So far, 20 schools have been granted permission for closure across the province, the majority of which are in the Cape Winelands district,” the MEC explained.

Over the past few days, 137 schools have reported some form of damage to infrastructure, either because of flooding or heavy winds. Most of the cases are minor, while 49 cases require urgent attention.

Level 8 warning

Meanwhile, a Level 8 warning has been issued by the SAWS for disruptive rain.

This warning remains in place for heavy rain, flooding, and mudslides, particularly in the Cape Town metro, Drakenstein and Stellenbosch regions.

The province is also expecting strong winds to persist over the interior regions and along the coastal areas of Saldanha Bay and Cape Agulhas over the next few days.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, the PDMC and other stakeholders are monitoring the series of cold fronts very closely.

“Virtually all WCG departments are working together to mitigate the possible impact of this weather system.

“All stakeholders will remain vigilant, and I urge members of the public to also do so. Disaster management teams are working tirelessly to keep members of the public out of harm’s way. For this, we are very thankful.”

The WCG said they have been working closely with all affected municipalities, national departments, as well as non-government organisations (NGOs), who have been working tirelessly to safeguard lives and assist residents in need during the current floods.

Chief Director of Disaster Management, Colin Deiner, explained that over the next several days the centre will continue to monitor the situation closely.

He stressed that a critical aspect of the overall response is to ensure all disaster officials and organisations are adequately resourced to keep up the good work they have been doing.

Humanitarian support

Meanwhile, about 4 000 structures have sustained damage across Cape Town, impacting 15 000 people.

“With the help of NGOs, 11 000 hot meals are being provided each day across Cape Town metro to people affected by the weather.”

The Western Cape Department of Social Development is coordinating humanitarian relief efforts for affected communities with partner NGOs like Gift of the Givers Foundation, The Warehouse Foundation, Ashraful Aid, Al-Imdaad Foundation, Islamic Relief SA, and the Community Chest of the Western Cape.

In addition, many rivers are reaching full saturation levels and run-off could increase exponentially. This is being closely monitored by the Department of Water and Sanitation.

Dams

Many of the province’s dams are also rising rapidly, with Clanwilliam Dam currently sitting at 90.89%, Berg River Dam increased to 104.06%, the Theewaterskloof Dam at 76%, while Misverstand Dam has risen to 161%.

“A controlled release of water from Wemmershoek Dam into the Berg River was carried out as a precautionary measure. This controlled release is necessary to reduce the risk of flooding downstream.”

Electricity

According to the provincial government, electricity faults are being reduced. However, 11 000 people are still without Eskom power in numerous areas, including Citrusdal, De Doorns and Touwsrivier.

In Delft, around 1 500 Eskom customers are without electricity.

“The power utility is working hard to restore power.”

The Gauteng Provincial Government says it fully accepts the judgment in the Life Esidimeni inquest handed down by the Pretoria High Court on Wednesday.

The inquest, which was established in July 2021, sought to investigate the criminal liability for the deaths of 141 mental healthcare users from Life Esidimeni.

Pretoria High Court Judge Mmonoa Teffo has determined that former Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu and the then Mental Health Director, Dr Makgabo Manamela, can be held accountable for the deaths of some Life Esidimeni patients.

In 2016, the Gauteng Department of Health moved the deceased from Life Esidimeni – a long-term psychiatric care hospital, which provided highly specialised chronic care to mental healthcare users to NGOs, which Teffo described as “ill-equipped” and “inexperienced” to give proper and adequate care.

This conduct, the judge said, led to “regrettable and unfortunate deaths, some of which could have been avoided”.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said: “We are pleased this process that brought so much pain and suffering to those who lost their loved ones, as well as the survivors whose human rights were grossly violated by this tragedy is nearing its end.

“This judgement closes a painful chapter, not only for the affected families but for us as the Gauteng Provincial Government.”

The judgement follows an arbitration process led by retired Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke that was established in 2018 and culminated in an arbitration award for the victims of the tragedy.

Moseneke gave the provincial government a list of 134 people after he concluded that families should each receive payments of R1 million in constitutional damages from government.

According to the provincial government, all claimants were paid R159 460 000 within the time that was stipulated by Justice Moseneke in his report.

“The only payments that are still outstanding are for the survivors who were not part of the initial arbitration process.”

The provincial government said it was currently administering these claims.

However, the claimants will only receive 50% of the claims upon successful verification. The other half will be held in trust on behalf of the mental healthcare user, which aligns with the Mental Healthcare Act 17 of 2002.

“As the Gauteng Provincial Government, we are confident that the National Prosecuting Authority will take this judgement forward and we await the conclusion of this matter,” the Premier said.

Way forward

Lesufi added that following the Life Esidimeni tragedy, the provincial government has made concerted efforts to ensure that the rights of mental healthcare users are promoted and safeguarded.

“As part of ongoing measures to strengthen mental health care in Gauteng, the provincial government undertook to ensure that the five district Mental Health Review Boards (MHRB) are functional and effective.”

The MHRBs are made up of 27 people with diverse expertise which include legal practitioners, mental healthcare practitioners, and community members with a proven record of community development and involvement.

In response to the growing need for mental health services, the provincial government said it has prioritised the refurbishments and repurposing of some of its healthcare facilities to improve mental healthcare infrastructure and services across the province.

According to the provincial government, several facilities have since been refurbished and opened to ensure enough acute mental health beds in hospitals and to increase mental health resources, including specialised professionals and rehabilitation services.

These facilities include Bertha Gxowa, South Rand, Tshwane District, Tembisa, Edenvale, Dr George Mukhari and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals.

The newly opened Kopanong Gateway Specialised Mental Health Day Clinic offers a basket of free services for mental health patients ranging from counselling, social work services, dual diagnosis services as well as psychotherapy for adults, children, and adolescents.

“The provincial government sympathises with the bereaved and affected families and understands that the Life Esidimeni inquest was incredibly important for families to find closure and for accountability,” the Premier said.