News - Page 131

Minister Senzo Mchunu has launched initiatives in uThukela and uMzinyathi District Municipalities to ensure access to clean water by drilling boreholes and launching water projects, significantly reducing water supply deficits in the regions. The introduction of a production borehole to supplement the Tugela Estates plant increased water supply to Mhlumayo, Bhaza, Ghobo, and Oqungweni, providing a new water source to roughly 4,300 inhabitants. Minister Mchunu’s approach stands as proof of the government’s dedication to its citizens, restoring dignity, safeguarding public health, improving living standards, and building robust communities.

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) and O.R. Tambo District Municipality are joining forces to combat genderbased violence and femicide (GBVF) in the Eastern Cape. They have organized an accountability session to hold various stakeholders responsible for their roles in addressing GBVF and suggest solutions to the problem. The event will focus on raising awareness, identifying shelters for atrisk groups, and sensitizing attendees to their duties and rights. This groundbreaking initiative highlights the need for collective action against GBVF and demonstrates the South African government’s commitment to societal welfare.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has launched its bursary program for the 2024 academic year, with applications open until January 31, 2024. The scheme has partnered with organizations such as SARS, SASSA, and the Department of Home Affairs to improve the application process, and students are encouraged to apply on time to benefit from the funding. The comprehensive Student Funding Model is also in the final approval stages by the Cabinet. The NSFAS aims to provide financial support to deserving students and expand accessibility to higher education for those who traditionally lacked such opportunities.

The National Prosecuting Authority is optimistic about the Kusile Eskom case, which was dismissed due to perceived delays in the investigation. The case is complex, with a large amount of digital evidence, but the Investigating Directorate remains committed to seeking truth and justice, and is working to complete the remaining reports. Despite the challenges, the ID’s dedication to the quest for justice is steadfast, and the case will be reenrolled and the truth will come to light in due course.

South Africa’s National Shelter Indaba conference has highlighted the significant funding shortfall and logistical hurdles faced by shelters providing support to victims of genderbased violence and femicide (GBVF). The lack of social workers in these facilities and regulatory hurdles are also major challenges. The government and private sector have been urged to provide support, resources, and infrastructure to address the GBVF crisis, which has been likened to the scale and impact of the COVID19 pandemic.