Thabo Sebata

Algoa Bay in South Africa has experienced a remarkable recovery in its water scarcity problem due to significant rainfall, resulting in an increase in the total storage capacity of the Algoa Water Supply System. As a consequence, water restrictions have been removed, providing relief to the agricultural and urban sectors of the region. However, it is still essential for water consumers to use water responsibly and adhere to water abstraction allotments to ensure sustainable water security.

The National Teaching Awards in Pretoria is a platform that recognizes and rewards outstanding teachers for their priceless contributions to education, despite often difficult circumstances. The event unites the educational community and promotes further excellence within the profession by acknowledging and rewarding the top educators from various backgrounds. The awards ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of South Africa’s most exceptional educators, emphasizing the importance of promoting excellence in education and encouraging continued growth and development within the profession.

Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Bernice Swarts visited the Leeudoringstad community in North West to address issues such as unemployment, deteriorating infrastructure, and overcrowded schools. Swarts introduced several interventions, including training young individuals in firefighting, collaborating with the private sector for job opportunities, and revitalizing the fresh produce market. She also discussed longterm programs, such as reintroducing trains to the region, to establish sustainable employment. The government plans to reevaluate its road construction model, develop smarter schools, and initiate greening initiatives to combat climate change.

The National Treasury has appointed Ms. Mmakgoshi Lekhethe as Deputy DirectorGeneral: Asset and Liability Management, and Mr. Christopher Axelson as Acting Deputy DirectorGeneral: Tax and Financial Sector Policy. Lekhethe has been with the National Treasury since 1996, while Axelson joined in 2012 after working in the UK. Their appointments strengthen the National Treasury’s leadership team and ensure the organization’s ongoing success in managing South Africa’s finances and promoting economic stability. Colleagues have expressed confidence in the new appointees, citing their expertise, knowledge, and commitment to their work.

The City of Cape Town has confirmed the presence of discolored water in the northern suburbs due to the effects of a severe storm on the water quality at the Wemmershoek Dam. Despite being treated, the water’s turbidity count exceeds the aesthetic standard limit for drinking water. The City is closely observing the highly turbid water and carrying out extensive water sampling and continuous testing to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water in the affected areas. The incident highlights the need for robust infrastructure and contingency plans to respond to emergencies and maintain the quality of essential services like clean water supply.

South African Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr. Senzo Mchunu, supports an investigation into allegations of corruption and maladministration related to a R295 million tender granted for the renovation and improvement of the Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Works. The plant has struggled with operational and maintenance issues, resulting in inadequate effluent treatment and contamination of the Apies River and the Leeuwkraal Dam. This pollution has negatively impacted the water quality in the Leeuwkraal Dam, compromising the drinkability of the water supplied to the Hammanskraal area. The Special Investigating Unit will probe the allegations and the City of Tshwane will address water quality and supply problems.

The briefing was held to foster transparency and accountability as South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, shared insights on the outcomes of a crucial Cabinet meeting. The public had access to it via live streaming on multiple platforms, and the topics discussed during the meeting may have included economic development, education and training, healthcare, social benefits, infrastructure and services, and international relations. Through such engagements with the media, the government demonstrates its commitment to democratic values and ensures that all South Africans are wellinformed and actively participating in the nation’s development.

South Africa is facing extreme weather conditions, with heavy rains and unrelenting fires causing substantial damage and displacement in numerous provinces. Minister Thembi Nkadimeng has called for caution and advised people to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. The National Disaster Management Centre is collaborating with disaster management teams to provide assistance to affected communities, and a summer season contingency plan has been established. It is crucial for municipalities to cooperate and plan effectively to respond to the crises brought on by the extreme weather.