News - Page 191

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has reached an Acknowledgement of Debt (AoD) agreement with Motheo Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in Free State, South Africa, concerning an ongoing investigation into the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Motheo TVET College has agreed to repay unallocated NSFAS grant funding totaling R38,686,477.10, making monthly payments of R855,679.91 for 60 months. The SIU’s efforts to address financial misallocations in the higher education sector are contributing to reinforcing the overall integrity of the higher education landscape in South Africa.

The Western Cape Government has been working tirelessly to recover and rebuild after a series of devastating storms in the region. In a recent virtual press conference, officials shared updates on their disaster management approach, which includes repairing damaged infrastructure, providing relief to affected families, and implementing sustainable solutions to prevent future catastrophes. Collaborative efforts between departments and stakeholders, as well as the support of the media, have played a crucial role in the successful execution of the government’s response. Despite the challenges, the Western Cape Government remains committed to the welfare of its residents and is working towards a sustainable and resilient future for the province.

Good news for the Western Cape as dam levels have surged due to recent heavy rainfall, providing relief to the area’s prolonged water crisis. The Cape Town System Dams have experienced a significant uptick in water levels, exemplifying the fortitude of the region’s people and natural resources amidst adversity. Despite heavy rainfall causing damage to infrastructure and loss of life and property, the region has remained resilient and adaptive, drawing strength from its diverse heritage and art to overcome challenges and secure a sustainable water future.

Unusually heavy rainfall and flooding on South Africa’s coastline have caused marine life, including abalone and seahorses, to be washed ashore. Slowmoving invertebrates such as abalone and mollusks are particularly affected and cannot escape the changed environment created by the floodwaters mixing with seawater. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) is taking action to reduce the damage, including coordinating efforts to rehabilitate the endangered Knysna seahorse, which is only found in three estuaries in the affected region. The unexpected consequences highlight the need for collective action to address the broader challenges of climate change and protect the planet’s ecosystems.

South Africa and Lesotho celebrated the official launch of their BiNational Commission (BNC) during a historic meeting between the two nations’ leaders. The BNC aims to strengthen and integrate the existing economic collaboration between the neighboring countries. Topics discussed included trade facilitation, energy partnerships, and regional developments of mutual interest. Both leaders expressed a commitment to addressing unresolved issues and challenges to ensure seamless trade facilitation and investments. The BNC promises to be a crucial step in fortifying the bilateral relationship, yielding mutual benefits for both nations.

This article highlights the courageous acts of rescuers and everyday heroes during a series of devastating storms along the coastal province. From a local surfer saving three teenage girls to NSRI crews collaborating with rangers to airlift an injured hiker, the true nature of people’s character emerges during times of crisis. These incidents serve as a testament to the unwavering resilience and spirit of humanity, inspiring and uplifting us all.

Despite the onslaught of severe weather and the challenges it has brought, the City’s Recreation and Parks Department remains committed to serving the community and prioritizing the safety of residents and visitors. The department’s emergency tree teams have been working tirelessly to manage the consequences of the weather, ensuring public safety. Although City cemeteries have been severely affected, with some temporarily halting burial services and experiencing accessibility limitations, the department continues its ongoing struggle to preserve the wellbeing of the community and remains resilient against the forces of nature.

Shaheema River survived a harrowing bus accident that killed three people and injured 35 others. She recalls the tragedy and the resilience of the human spirit while urging people not to make assumptions about its cause. Despite not hearing from Golden Arrow Bus Service, she plans to file a lawsuit against it and join others in seeking justice for the victims. The incident highlights the fragility of life, the power of human resilience, and the importance of community during times of crisis.

Sir Michael Gambon, a legendary actor with a sixdecadelong career, has passed away at the age of 82 due to pneumonia. Wellknown for his portrayal of Professor Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series, he won four BAFTA awards and was knighted in 1998, cementing his status as an artist of immense contribution to the entertainment industry. Sir Michael’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level have left an indelible mark, inspiring generations of actors and artists to pursue excellence and passion for their craft.

The South African Navy will rename sections of Simon’s Town Naval Base to honor the memory of three submariners who lost their lives in a tragic event. The renaming underlines the importance of their contributions to the Navy and serves as a lasting reminder of their unyielding dedication. The Gillian Hector Training Centre, Mmokwapa Mojela Building, and William Mathipa Workshop will stand as a testament to their unwavering courage and resolve. Although the renaming cannot alleviate the families’ pain, it serves as a symbolic gesture to memorialize the lives of these brave individuals.

South African political leaders and councilors recently convened to address the ongoing water shortage crisis in the cities of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and Tshwane. The discussions were prompted by a factfinding mission in September 2023 to assess the most affected municipalities in Gauteng province. The collaboration between political leaders and councilors underlined the critical need for a unified approach to tackle South Africa’s water supply challenges, ensuring that communities have access to dependable water sources and fulfilling human rights obligations.

The Taipei Liaison Office donated two tons of rice to the city of Cape Town, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts and social responsibility. Rice is an essential staple food in South Africa, and the donation has the potential to feed around 10,000 people, addressing food security concerns in a country dealing with economic disparities and natural disasters. The donation serves as a symbol of hope and solidarity, showcasing the power of international collaboration and working collectively to tackle challenges.

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.

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is encouraging public involvement in discussions regarding marine outfall discharge permit applications and Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) permits. Residents and stakeholders can share their comments and suggestions on five WWTW facilities across 60 days through inperson and virtual meetings and alternative platforms. The City’s inclusive approach to policy development reinforces its dedication to transparency, inclusivity, and accountability, and promoting a culture of environmental stewardship. The public’s feedback will influence the future of wastewater management and ensure effective and sustainable policies are created.

Attention residents of Athlone and neighboring areas: Please be advised that there will be a temporary water service interruption starting on Thursday, 28 September 2023 at 19:00 until Friday, 29 September 2023 at 08:00 due to emergency repairs on a water main in Bofors Circle, Epping. The affected areas include Athlone, Hazendal, Heideveld, Rylands, Belgravia, Crawford, Sybrand Park, Lansdowne, Rondebosch East, and Gatesville Melomed Hospital. Water tankers will be available for domestic use during this time, and residents are urged to store water ahead of time and keep taps closed to prevent water loss and damage. Thank you for your cooperation.