The South African government’s commitment to overcoming the challenges faced by municipalities is evident in the District Development Model (DDM) Ministerial Outreach program. On September 13, 2023, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Ms. Thembi Nkadimeng, will lead the program’s outreach to Kimberley in the Northern Cape. This event is a significant step towards addressing the barriers that impede the effective functioning of local government administrations.
The North West Province of South Africa is facing scrutiny over inadequate management of infrastructure development projects. The situation has become so dire that permanent members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) had to air their disappointments after attending a meeting to receive updates on provincial and municipal infrastructure projects at Ngaka Modiri Molema Council. The following sections will delve into the issues, challenges, and recommendations to remedy the situation.
South Africa is committed to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. These goals address critical global issues, including poverty, inequality, and unemployment, and offer a shared vision for a better world that prioritizes prosperity, peace, and environmental sustainability.
With the constant increase in unemployment rates, individuals who are looking for employment are at risk of being tricked by unscrupulous recruiters. Recently, the Department of Water and Sanitation has issued a warning against fake employment recruiters who falsely claim to represent the Department and offer training programs for unemployed youth.
Cape Town is implementing a new approach to managing sewer spills by investing in cuttingedge technology, new vehicles, and expanded teams. The city’s goal is to minimize the occurrence of sewer spills by implementing proactive measures while improving incident response times.
The Steenbras Hydro Pumped Storage Scheme has been a vital resource for Cape Town’s energy supply, providing loadshedding protection and sustainable energy. To ensure the scheme’s longevity, the local government has announced a significant investment of R107 million for refurbishments and maintenance.
The Gauteng AntiGang Unit has made significant progress this year in the fight against crime. Specifically, in the Sophiatown, Langlaagte, and Eldorado Park areas of Johannesburg, the unit has arrested 73 gangsters linked to 90 criminal acts, resulting in three life sentences and an additional combined prison time of 130 years.
In the modern world, technology and innovation are essential for the progress of nations. The rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies has made digital skills critical for daily life and employability. ## South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation Embraces Digital Skills
In honor of Heritage Month this September, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has unveiled its fourth decimal coin series, celebrating the country’s natural wonders. This coin series, the first complete set to be issued under democratic dispensation, features a contemporary aesthetic and a central theme of deep ecology. Each coin showcases elements of South Africa’s national identity, including culture, symbols, history, languages, flora and fauna, cities, and technological advancements.
On 13 September 2023, Mbhashe Municipality in the Eastern Cape will hold byelections for two crucial municipal wards. The elections will see a total of 10 candidates competing for the positions, with one independent candidate and nine candidates from five political parties.
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) have joined hands to organize an online webinar to support artists with disabilities. The main objective of this initiative is to integrate and promote disabled artists into the mainstream arts and culture sector. The webinar aims to eliminate the barriers that limit their participation in the country’s arts and cultural programs.
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in South Africa recently conducted a weeklong refresher course for over 40 staff members to enhance water and sanitation services across the country. This initiative aimed to reinforce the government’s commitment to prioritizing public needs while executing public service duties.
On September 14, 2023, the Hangberg Sports and Recreation Centre in Hangberg will host the Urban Waste Management (UWM) Directorate’s Basket of Waste Services Roadshow. This event provides an exceptional opportunity for the community to learn about waste management and interact with representatives from the City’s UWM Directorate.
On September 12, 2023, the Nyanga community in Cape Town will experience temporary roadworks as part of the city’s ongoing urban mobility efforts. The Road Infrastructure Management Department will be in charge of the project, which is expected to finish by early October, depending on weather conditions.
On September 13, 2023, Premier Alan Winde visited the Nampo Cape 2023 exhibition in Bredasdorp, engaging with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Agriculture has always been a vital component of the Western Cape’s economy, contributing significantly to its growth and job creation.
In response to the pressing issues of unemployment, poverty, and inequality, the North West Provincial Government will host a dinner with potential investors. With an alarming unemployment rate of 53 percent, the North West Executive Council members are concerned and aim to expedite the coordination of investments into the region.