News - Page 216

South African Police Minister Bheki Cele has been found to have breached the code of ethical conduct for Members of Parliament after shouting “shut up” to Ian Cameron, director of Action Society, during a crime imbizo in 2022. The Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interest has called for Cele to issue a public apology to Cameron in front of the National Assembly members. The incident highlights the importance of public officials maintaining high standards of professionalism, and citizens and community organizations must continue to advocate for their rights and the proper allocation of police resources.

Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate is conducting maintenance work this week to enhance the city’s water supply infrastructure. The work involves zeropressure tests and conditional assessments in several regions, which may result in temporary water supply disruptions or reduced pressure for some residents. The maintenance work aims to guarantee the longterm reliability and excellence of Cape Town’s water supply, and the city is advising residents to prepare by storing water, adjusting appliances and fixtures, and being patient. Ultimately, the improvements to the water supply infrastructure will outweigh any temporary inconvenience.

Fuel prices in South Africa are set to increase, affecting both individual drivers and the wider economy. Diesel prices will see a substantial increase, and all petrol and diesel grades will exceed the R25 per litre mark. The Central Energy Fund attributes the price increases to various international factors, including rising petrol costs and the strength of the rand against the US dollar. South African motorists may consider looking into more fuelefficient vehicles to lessen the impact of these price hikes on their budgets.

Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has successfully pursued justice within the Department of Human Settlements, with the recent Labour Court verdict validating her quest for accountability and transparency. The judgment ruled that an official within the Department unlawfully appointed nine officials, and the resolution highlights the Department’s growing dedication to professionalism. The Labour Court’s ruling sets a benchmark for future instances of unlawful appointments, reminding civil servants to act within the legal framework and emphasizing the role of transparency in fostering trust between the government and its citizens.

Cape Town has been ranked the seventh most budgetfriendly city in the world by a recent study conducted by Bounce. The city offers affordable accommodation, food, and drinks, making it a perfect option for a city break. Visitors can explore the city’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and nearby regions, such as the Garden Route and Winelands, without financial limitations. With its enchanting experiences and affordability, Cape Town is a welcoming sanctuary for travelers seeking value for their money.

Gauteng’s government is leading a revolution in urban transportation by introducing innovative and sustainable solutions. The initiatives include improving public services, combating crime and corruption, modernising the taxi industry and investing in highspeed trains, light rail, and bus rapid transit to alleviate congestion and provide sustainable alternatives to private cars. Throughout October Transport Month, the Gauteng government will showcase datacentric mobility, initiatives to strengthen institutions, a new tamperproof number plate system to combat crime and corruption, and new generation driving license testing centers to deliver infrastructure for communities. The government’s goal is to improve the quality of life for its citizens, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has promised a smooth social grants payment process for October 2023. Beneficiaries can choose their preferred payment method, and SASSA staff will be available to assist those with payment challenges. The agency is committed to serving the needs of South African citizens who rely on social grants and is continuously working to improve the system.

Severe flooding in the Western Cape of South Africa has caused devastating damage to vital road infrastructure, disrupting the flow of goods, services, and people and significantly affecting the local economy. However, Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers and the Western Cape Government have taken swift action to restore the damaged roads, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Despite technical assessments and planning for necessary rehabilitation work, reconstruction progress has been swift, with the McGregor Bridge expected to reopen by the end of October.

South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, is collaborating with stakeholders to address the avian influenza outbreak that poses risks to both the poultry industry and consumers. The minister is evaluating proposals for a potential vaccination program that could control the disease and protect the egg production industry. She is also taking steps to ensure sufficient egg and chicken meat supply for consumers, enhancing the efficiency of issuing import permits for egg products and examining trade instruments to facilitate the supply of chicken meat. The response to the outbreak provides valuable insights for other countries and industries that may confront similar challenges.

The Western Cape Government in South Africa has achieved exceptional audit results for the 2022/23 fiscal year, with all 14 provincial departments and 11 entities receiving unqualified audits. This achievement highlights the WCG’s dedication to transparent governance and accountable financial practices, creating an atmosphere that invites local, national, and global partnerships. The province has experienced significant progress in various sectors, including reduced crime rates, advanced educational outcomes, improved public health, and expanded employment. Good governance also fosters investment and encourages business expansion, generating more job opportunities in the province and South Africa.