News - Page 214

The Western Cape Government has achieved 100% clean audits, reflecting its dedication to transparent and accountable governance. However, this achievement has been downplayed by some, such as the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. The government has taken a proactive approach to tackle irregular expenditure in the former Department of Human Settlements and is committed to transparency and accountability. Additionally, the government has made significant progress in providing housing opportunities, emphasizing its commitment to inclusive, affordable housing and promoting thriving communities for all residents.

Western Cape teachers have been celebrated for their excellence at the National Teaching Awards, with four provincial nominees securing top three spots in their categories. These educators were recognized for their commitment and expertise in teaching physical sciences, technologyenhanced teaching and learning, primary school teaching, and secondary school leadership. In addition, Dr. Mariette Wheeler of Protea Heights Academy in Brackenfell was selected as one of the top 50 finalists in the Global Teacher Prize. As part of Teacher Appreciation Month, the ThankaTeacher campaign invites everyone to show their gratitude for the exceptional teachers in the Western Cape.

The Thuntsha Lerole programme in South Africa’s North West province aims to improve service delivery and living conditions for local communities in the Mahikeng Local Municipality. The programme involves collaboration between governmental departments and entities, with a focus on key areas such as repairing roads, supporting agriculture and small businesses, and registering indigent individuals. Transparency and community engagement are prioritized, with daily feedback sessions allowing residents to express their concerns and contribute to shaping their community’s future. The Thuntsha Lerole programme serves as a model for future initiatives and demonstrates the power of collaboration and dedication in achieving progress for citizens.

On October 11th, South Africa will hold six municipal ward byelections across three provinces, with twentyfive candidates from nine different political parties and two independent contenders. This article breaks down the electoral environment in each ward, the candidates competing, and the wider implications of these byelections. Voter turnout will be a critical factor in determining the success of candidates and parties, and the outcomes could reshape the political landscape in these municipalities and beyond.

The Western Cape has been hit hard by severe flooding, causing damage to infrastructure, roads, and bridges. The Western Cape Government and its partners are working tirelessly to reopen roads and aid those in need. The decisionmaking process for prioritizing which roads to repair is complex, taking into account factors such as main routes and access to isolated communities in need of humanitarian aid. The community is coming together to provide support and donations to those who have been displaced, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Western Cape people.

South Africa has established the Border Management Authority (BMA) to address challenges in managing its borders and ports of entry. Led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the BMA aims to develop an integrated, efficient, and secure system that promotes national security and economic growth. The BMA’s launch addresses issues such as undocumented foreign nationals and border management inefficiencies that have enabled corruption and crossborder crime to flourish. The BMA will play a significant role in integrating border management initiatives in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and transform six ports of entry into onestopborderposts to enhance efficiency.

South Africa celebrated its teachers at the 2023 National Teachers’ Awards, where Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile spoke about their vital role in molding future leaders and guiding social transformation in the country. The awards were initiated 23 years ago by the late Professor Kader Asmal, who believed in education as a catalyst for change. The government is dedicated to supporting educators in every way possible, understanding that their success has a direct impact on the nation’s prosperity.

South Africa’s Child Support Grant (CSG) has positively impacted 13 million children, providing R510 per child monthly, making it the program with the most significant impact on poverty and the most extensive coverage of the impoverished. The CSG has also contributed to fostering positive academic outcomes, with studies showing that children who receive the grant are more likely to stay in school. The release of a comprehensive report analyzing the CSG program’s effectiveness comes at a critical moment, offering valuable information to policymakers and promoting collaboration among diverse stakeholders working towards the shared objective of eliminating poverty and enhancing children’s lives.

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.