As South Africa’s National Planning Commission (NPC) marks the significant accomplishment of completing a tenyear review of the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030, it is crucial to recognize the progress made and challenges faced since the plan’s adoption in 2012. As an independent advisory body, the NPC has assessed the strides achieved and pinpointed areas requiring enhancement.
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a significant global challenge, with South Africa being one of the most affected countries. The recent country statement by Minister Joe Phaahla at the HighLevel Meeting on Tuberculosis offers an overview of South Africa’s progress, obstacles, and collaborations in their fight against TB. This article explores the critical aspects of South Africa’s journey since the last UN HighLevel Meeting in 2018 and the consequences of their endeavors in the larger global context.
The Giyani Labour Centre, part of the Department of Employment and Labour in Limpopo Province, is organizing a community outreach event at Masingita Mall on Tuesday, 26th September 2023. The aim of this initiative is to make essential services more accessible to the people of Giyani and nearby areas.
In a world where crime is an everpresent concern, it is encouraging to see law enforcement agencies overcoming obstacles and effectively combating criminal activities within their areas of responsibility. One outstanding example is the South African Police Service (SAPS), whose recent accomplishments reveal a resolute commitment to protecting citizens and upholding law and order.
From September 26 to 29, 2023, the Employment and Labor Ministers of BRICS nations gathered in Durban to foster cooperation in generating employment opportunities and enhancing labor market governance. The meetings took place at the Radisson Blu Umhlanga and were spearheaded by South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labor. The central focus of the discussions revolved around increasing productivity initiatives and strengthening social protection among the BRICS countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
As global concerns surrounding environmental sustainability and energy security continue to rise, South Africa has made significant progress in implementing an Energy Action Plan. On September 26, 2023, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the Minister of Electricity, conducted a media briefing to update the public on the status of this vital initiative.
The Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) has been activated due to warnings from the South African Weather Services that an approaching storm will be more severe than initially expected. The Level 6 Impact Warning for heavy rainfall has been elevated to a Level 9 Impact for torrential rains in areas of Overberg, Cape Winelands, and spreading towards the Garden Route District on Monday, according to Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning.
Pharmacists are integral to the provision of quality patient care and enhancing health outcomes, as highlighted by the recognition of healthcare professionals during World Pharmacist Day and South Africa’s Pharmacy Month. This year’s World Pharmacist Day, celebrated on September 25th, adopted the theme “Pharmacy strengthening health systems.” Throughout the month, pharmacists have focused on promoting health education, facilitating access to primary healthcare and vaccines, and guiding patients on antimicrobial stewardship.
In a heartbreaking incident of misidentification, a woman lost her life after presumed hitmen targeted her mistakenly due to a supposed affair. In an unforeseen sequence of events, the South African Police Service (SAPS) managed to take into custody the individuals involved in the crime, unveiling a complex web of relationships, dishonesty, and revenge that unfolded on the N3 highway in KwaZuluNatal.
Hailing from Calitzdorp, South Africa, Gielie Basson has accomplished a remarkable feat that will be etched in memory for years. He has triumphantly shattered the Guinness World Record for the lengthiest braai, an extraordinary achievement that entailed him continuously attending to a barbecue for over 80 hours. Despite this incredible accomplishment, Basson stays resolute at the grill, intent on establishing a new personal milestone by reaching a total of 84 hours.
Cape Town recently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to resilience and teamwork during an exceptional crisis. A colossal 54,000ton container ship encountered a disastrous fire while at sea, and was directed to approach Cape Town’s waters. The ship’s captain, recognizing the gravity of the situation, acted promptly by sealing the compartment where the fire was ablaze. By September 19th, the afflicted vessel arrived at Cape Town’s port, but due to the uncontained fire, officials denied entry, leaving the ship anchored in the bay.
Our surroundings constantly surprise us with an array of wonders, and the sky is no exception. Among the many breathtaking natural phenomena, lenticular clouds stand out. These extraordinary cloud formations captivate onlookers with their remarkable appearance, often resembling unidentified flying objects. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of lenticular clouds and the meteorological elements that lead to their formation.
The Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) has expressed its apprehension over the suggested changes to the Road Accident Fund Act, warning that the proposed amendments could have severe repercussions for all South African road users. The transport minister recently gazetted the draft amendment bill, which recommends significant alterations to the fund’s operation and the processes for claims payment. Of particular concern to the LSSA is the proposed elimination of the rights of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to claim compensation for injuries they have sustained.
In the early morning of September 20, 2023, the Tlhabane community in South Africa experienced a significant clampdown on criminal activity. Several law enforcement agencies, such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), Rustenburg Crime Intelligence, Tlhabane Visible Policing, District Crime Combating Unit, Bafokeng Reaction Force, and Nuco Chrome Protection Service, teamed up to bring down a group of ten criminals. This victorious effort resulted in the arrest of the offenders, who faced charges including drug possession and dealing, robberies, motor vehicle theft, attempted murder, and burglary.
On a bright Wednesday afternoon, the usually tranquil ambiance of Kommetjie, a quaint town near Cape Town, was disrupted by an unexpected and disastrous event that led to the demise of three South African Navy officers. The harrowing episode took place near the Slangkop Lighthouse, as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) submarine SAS Manthatisi was participating in a vital training exercise.
South Africa, a country abundant in culture and brimming with diversity, honors Heritage Day on September 24th. This day showcases the nation’s dedication to fostering and preserving its shared legacy and pays tribute to the great individuals who fought for a united and flourishing South Africa free from racial and gender discrimination.
