Ernest Khosa, the Chairperson of NSFAS, recently discussed the findings of an investigation into the direct payment service providers bid process at a media briefing. The investigation discovered irregularities and conflicts of interest during the selection process, including a lack of feasibility study and modifications to bid specifications. The NSFAS Board has taken actions such as offering the CEO a chance to explain why his contract should not be terminated and initiating disciplinary inquiries. Despite these issues, NSFAS remains dedicated to providing financial assistance to students from lowincome and workingclass backgrounds.
In Overberg, South Africa, two criminals hijacked a car at gunpoint and kidnapped a man and a woman. The SAPS officers spotted the stolen car and chased them down, eventually capturing the criminals and rescuing the abducted woman. The SAPS officers’ bravery and collaboration ensured that the criminals were held accountable for their actions and served as a reminder of the vital role that law enforcement plays in protecting communities. Despite the lasting impact of the crime, the story also highlights the courage and resilience of the Overberg District and its people.
Minister Sihle Zikalala recently emphasized the need for collaboration between government officials and contractors to ensure efficient completion of public works projects within budget. This requires transparency, open communication, and diligent project monitoring. Regional managers should be involved in technical structures to improve coordination and planning, while local authorities should act as “eyes and ears” to oversee project implementation. Ultimately, a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence is necessary to deliver highquality results for all public works projects.
Sure, South African artist Tyla’s rise to fame began on TikTok and Instagram, where she gained a following for her song covers. Her debut single “Getting Late” featuring Kooldrink became a hit in 2019, and she followed up with more singles. In 2023, her single “Water” brought her international recognition, and she joined Chris Brown on his European tour as the opening act. Tyla’s talent, versatility, and dedication have allowed her to break barriers and set new standards for South African artists on the global stage.
Three female traffic officers were arrested in South Africa for corruption, obstruction of justice, and extortion. The officers were caught in a sting operation after demanding bribes from a truck owner in Free State. The CEO of the Road Traffic Management Corporation praised the operation and encouraged local authorities to take additional internal measures to ensure the officers face disciplinary action from their employer. This incident highlights the need for transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies, and the importance of continuous scrutiny and reform in these institutions.
Muizenberg is set to become a hub for safety and security training with the establishment of a new training college for the Safety and Security Directorate. The training college will offer valuable training for staff at local, provincial, and national levels. An open day has been organized for residents to share their thoughts and proposals to ensure inclusiveness in the public participation process. The renovation will include three new auditoriums, eight lecture rooms, a library, swimming pool, dormitories, a gym, boardrooms, an administrative block, and social/recreational spaces.
The government will invest R3.5 billion to introduce new vaccines, including a derivative vaccine and a combination vaccine, while COVID19 vaccinations will now be integrated into routine primary health care services. South Africa’s National Health Council Meeting covered various topics, including the introduction of new vaccines, integration of COVID19 vaccinations, online birth registrations, cost containment measures, audit outcomes, medicolegal issues, avian influenza infection risk, and nurses’ uniforms and allowances. Online birth registrations have been expanded, and nurses will receive a onceoff uniform allowance of R3153.
Cape Town’s firefighters showcased their exceptional strength and perseverance in the annual Toughest Fire Fighters Alive competition, where they competed against over 250 firefighters from more than 20 South African municipalities in a series of challenging time trial courses. Despite the grueling nature of their work, these courageous individuals consistently rise to the challenge, putting their lives on the line to protect their communities. Their remarkable success in the competition underscores their unwavering commitment to public service and provides a beacon of hope in the face of ongoing challenges such as wildfires and other emergencies.
Don’t miss this exclusive Cape Town opportunity to positively impact the lives of animals in need. Paws on the Promenade is a funfilled, charitable dog walk fundraiser taking place on Sunday, October 29th, along Cape Town’s picturesque Sea Point promenade. Hosted by Khayelitsha’s Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Vondi’s Holistic Pet Nutrition, the event welcomes all animal enthusiasts, whether you have a furry friend or not. With tickets priced at just R50 per person, R50 per dog, and R25 for children under 12, Paws on the Promenade offers budgetfriendly entertainment, treats, and a chance to meet and potentially adopt dogs.
The South African Music Awards (SAMA) is set to bring a boost to the economy of KwaZuluNatal (KZN) province by revitalizing the entertainment and tourism sectors and enhancing the local and international exposure of the creative industry. The event is expected to contribute over R350 million to the provincial economy through various sources, including buildup programs, hotel accommodations, sponsorships, transportation, and media programs. The awards also offer numerous benefits such as promoting KZN as a tourist and investment destination and providing opportunities for local talent and businesses.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and advocates for the establishment of humanitarian corridors to provide aid to those in need. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and diplomatic efforts in resolving conflicts and urges the global community to support the peace process. President Ramaphosa also calls for the formation of a viable Palestinian State coexisting with Israel within the 1967 borders.
Pinotage is a distinctive grape variety that originated in South Africa in 1925 as a hybrid of pinot noir and cinsault. The grape embodies the country’s winemaking traditions and is the third most cultivated red grape in South Africa’s wine region. To honor the grape that started it all, Lanzerac Wine Estate hosts an annual Pinotage Festival, celebrating International Pinotage Day with a lively event that brings together wine connoisseurs, friends, and family. The festival offers a private tasting experience that explores the estate’s collection of pinotage wines and is an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in South Africa’s distinctive wine culture.
South Africa and Namibia’s BiNational Commission (BNC) serves as a platform to deepen their bilateral relations and collaborate in advancing Africa’s political, economic, and social integration. The 3rd Session of the BNC in October 2023 focuses on energy cooperation, particularly in electricity and green hydrogen, and encouraging collaboration in various other sectors to propel progress and development throughout the African continent. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and President Hage Geingob of Namibia jointly preside over the session, with a highlevel delegation from South Africa attending to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.
The Telkom Foundation’s Connected Schools program aims to provide digital skills and tools to learners, educators, and young people in rural areas through the creation of modern ICT laboratories. Nyanga High School recently unveiled a cuttingedge ICT laboratory as part of this program, which will help close the digital gap in remote communities and enhance academic growth through internet connectivity and digital access. The initiative represents a significant step towards achieving academic excellence through technology and empowering the youth with knowledge and competencies that can contribute to the country’s socioeconomic development.
Makwana’s exit signifies a crucial turning point in Eskom’s leadership during a time of significant restructuring and reform. The recent resignation of Mpho Makwana, Eskom’s chairperson, has created waves across South Africa’s energy sector. Makwana’s departure comes just one year after he took on the role, making him the shortestserving chairperson in the company’s history. His resignation will take effect at the end of October, following Eskom’s Annual General Meeting. Although his tenure was brief, Makwana’s exit signifies a crucial turning point in Eskom’s leadership during a period of significant restructuring and reform.
The Artscape Theatre Centre in Cape Town is a hub for artistic and cultural events, offering a wide range of entertainment choices for all preferences. From thoughtinspiring performances like “Requiem: Journeys of the Soul” to laughterfilled evenings with the “Twins of Comedy,” there is something for everyone. The Centre also supports emerging talent and hosts prestigious events like Placido Domingo’s Operalia competition. Overall, the Artscape Theatre Centre is a mustvisit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the performing arts in the Mother City.