On May 16, 2023, South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, presented an ambitious budget of R40.291 billion for the 2023/24 fiscal year in the National Assembly. The department’s primary objective is to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the water sector, while addressing the existing challenges and shortcomings and providing reliable services to communities.
The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has scheduled a comprehensive planned maintenance work for the water supply infrastructure in several areas, including Bellville CBD, Triangle Farm, Bellville South, Labiance, Greenlands, Glenhaven, and Stikland. This article provides information on the scope of the maintenance work, its purpose, and how residents can prepare for it.
The Minister of Finance Enoch Gondongwana presented the National Treasury of South Africa’s Budget Vote for the 2023/24 financial year, highlighting the government’s efforts to foster higher and more inclusive economic growth, address fiscal vulnerability, and stabilize public finances. The total allocated budget for the National Treasury amounts to R34.9 billion, with 85% allocated to transfers and subsidies.
Loadshedding has become a constant source of disruption for neighborhoods, with new trends emerging as a result of high stages of loadshedding and increased demand during winter. ### Pressure on Energy Teams
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully brought down a ruthless serial rapist who used Facebook to target and exploit young women. Khululekani Justin Ngqeza, aged 36, has been handed multiple life terms and an additional 280 years imprisonment by the Makhanda High Court for his heinous crimes.
South Africa has recently faced allegations regarding its involvement in the RussiaUkraine conflict. In response, Minister Enoch Godongwana has emphasized the government’s dedication to addressing these concerns and maintaining strong relations with global partners, notably the United States. This article will elaborate on South Africa’s efforts to maintain international cooperation and economic stability and the potential consequences they face if these allegations are not handled appropriately.
Deputy Ministers Conduct Comprehensive Assessment of the Freeport Saldanha Industrial Development Zone Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Pinky Kekana, and Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Bernice Swarts, recently conducted a comprehensive assessment of the innovative Freeport Saldanha Industrial Development Zone. The strategic initiative showcases a promising model for economic development and empowerment that aligns with the District Development Model (DDM).
City libraries are a vital resource for education and personal growth. They provide a safe and welcoming space for community members to learn, relax, and access valuable tools. In recognition of this, the Community Services and Health Directorate has allocated over R32 million in the 2023/24 budget to upgrade and improve Library and Information Services (LIS). This includes a substantial investment in the expansion of the Lwandle Community Library and the acquisition of a diverse range of books, periodicals, and subscriptions.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong recently celebrated 30 years of diplomatic ties between their nations during Prime Minister Lee’s initial official visit to South Africa. This visit marked an opportunity for both leaders to discuss crucial areas of mutual interest while exploring ways to strengthen their bilateral cooperation and partnership.
The impact of the Covid19 pandemic on education has been devastating, as evidenced by the recently released Progress in International Reading and Literacy Study (PIRLS) 2021 results. South Africa experienced a 32point drop in its average PIRLS score, a concerning trend that demands swift action to address.
Cape Town’s Mayor, Geordin HillLewis, has announced that the city’s unemployment rate has dropped by four percentage points yearonyear, boasting the lowest unemployment rate among South Africa’s metros. Despite the progress, the Mayor acknowledged that much work remains in fostering further economic growth and alleviating poverty through job creation.
Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, the Honourable Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, recently delivered the 2023/24 Budget Vote speech, outlining the key goals and initiatives for South Africa’s mining and energy industries. ### Transformation, Empowerment, and Sustainable Growth
The South African government has expressed optimism regarding the latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey results, despite a rise in unemployment. The increase in the number of employed individuals is a significant development that offers hope for the country’s economic growth and recovery.
In the midst of South Africa’s ongoing energy crisis, the city of Cape Town is leading the way in efforts to combat loadshedding and create a more sustainable future for its citizens. At a recent SmallScale Embedded Generation (SSEG) event, Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Councillor Beverley van Reenen, outlined the city’s ambitious plans.
Minister Noxolo Kiviet gave a speech during the 2023/24 Budget Vote for the National School of Government, Department of Public Service and Administration, and Public Service Commission, highlighting the theme, “Taking care of public servants to care for South Africans.” The speech emphasized the importance of public servants in improving the quality of life for all South Africans.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has achieved a significant victory with the declaration of the land reform lease agreement with Cultiver Investments as irregular and unlawful by the Special Tribunal. This agreement was ordered by the former Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Ms. Maite NkoanaMashabane, who directed the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform to finalize the lease for a chicken farm in Limpopo Province.
