Recently, various media sources have circulated reports claiming that the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) acknowledged that offender Oscar Leonard Pistorius became eligible for parole six months ago and should have been considered for release. The DCS, however, refutes these misleading articles, clarifying that no such admission was made and that these reports will not influence the Constitutional Court’s decision.

In the face of growing concerns about the impacts of climate change, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa emerged as a key figure at the Climate Ambition Summit held in New York, USA, promoting vigorous and comprehensive climate initiatives. The increasingly harmful effects of environmental deterioration, resource depletion, and unsustainable production on human health and welfare have heightened the demand for viable solutions to address these issues.

In recent times, Cape Town has encountered substantial obstacles in conserving and managing its water resources. The city came close to depleting its water supply during the notorious “Day Zero” in 2018 and has been battling the impacts of climate change on its water resources. To address these challenges, Cape Town has adopted innovative and sustainable water management strategies. This week, the city had the chance to present these groundbreaking efforts to a global audience at the 50th Congress of the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) held in Cape Town.

In an astounding show of unity and resolve, a combined team of law enforcement and security professionals rescued a kidnapped University of Witwatersrand student on September 19, 2023, in Johannesburg. The prompt intervention of these officers not only led to the safe return of the student but also resulted in the apprehension of seven individuals involved in the crime. This exceptional alliance between various law enforcement agencies and security firms highlights the effectiveness of collaboration in combating criminal activities.

To elevate the community and create opportunities for young, ambitious sports lovers, the Gauteng Department of Education plans to inaugurate the KhanyaLesedi Sports School of Specialisation on 21 September 2023 in Ratanda, Heidelberg. This event signifies the introduction of the 27th School of Specialisation in the area, an endeavour designed to cultivate talent and refine skills across diverse disciplines.

Social grants play an essential role in promoting equality and justice in a society by uplifting the living standards of vulnerable and underprivileged individuals. South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Mondli Gungubele, and the Minister of Social Development, Ms. Lindiwe Zulu, recently shared an update on the progress of Postbank Gold Card SASSA beneficiary payments. Their efforts to guarantee timely, effective, and transparent distribution of social grants are praiseworthy and vital in empowering the less fortunate.

South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, has recently announced the appointment of Mr. Peter Mbelengwa as the Department’s new Chief Director, Head of Communications and Advocacy, and Spokesperson. With a long and distinguished career in government communications, Mr. Mbelengwa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be invaluable in furthering the department’s mission and vision.

The Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES) branch of the Department of Employment and Labour demonstrated exceptional performance during the 2022/23 financial year, surpassing their inspection target by an impressive 105 percent. This notable achievement highlights the Department’s unwavering commitment to sustaining a just, equitable, and compliant labor market in South Africa.

With summer temperatures reaching new heights in South Africa, concerns about the nation’s water supply are growing. A recent report from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) showed a gradual decrease in dam levels across the country. Currently, South Africa’s overall water storage capacity is at 90.7%, a small decrease from the previous week’s 91.4%. This emphasises the need for citizens to comply with water restrictions set by municipalities, ensuring a consistent water supply in the waterstrapped country.

Productivity SA, a public entity established under the Employment Services Act, No. 4 of 2014, is dedicated to promoting productivity, innovation, and sustainable growth. Its mission is to create a competitive and thriving ecosystem for Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa. The organization consistently supports businesses and entrepreneurs, contributing to the country’s socioeconomic development and competitiveness.

The coastal city of Cape Town is undergoing a transformation with the Coastal Management Branch spearheading the second phase of the Strand Seawall upgrade and refurbishment. Locals eagerly await the improvements to their cherished coastline, and city officials invite everyone to view the final designs and construction timeline on Wednesday, 4 October 2023, at the Strand Municipal building.

As the global community advances towards a more sustainable future, South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET) Summit provides a forum to discuss the challenges and opportunities arising from the shift to a lowcarbon economy. Hosted at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, the summit centered on the prospects of renewable energy, the evolution of hydrogenrelated technologies, and the essential skills needed to expand South Africa’s hydrogen economy.

In recent times, South Africa’s Western Cape province has grappled with the formidable task of providing a reliable and sustainable water supply to its inhabitants. The area, which includes scenic landscapes and bustling cities, has experienced extended droughts, dwindling rainfall, and increasing water losses. Nonetheless, the Western Cape dams’ journey exemplifies nature’s resilience and the steadfast dedication of those who safeguard this vital resource.

Subtitle: Minister Discusses Economic Transformation and Women’s Advancement at SAWID’s 20th Anniversary Celebration ## Celebrating SAWID’s 20th Anniversary and Women’s Empowerment

In the constant struggle against theft and destruction of vital infrastructure, a significant breakthrough was recently achieved through the joint efforts of the Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison, and the Mpumalanga Provincial AntiGang Unit of the Police. This joint operation led to the recovery of nearly R3 million worth of stolen railway track and the apprehension of three foreign nationals.