Deputy Minister Hendrietta BogopaneZulu Commemorates International Overdose Awareness in Potchefstroom, August 31 On August 31, Deputy Minister of Social Development Mme Hendrietta BogopaneZulu partnered with the Central Drug Authority (CDA) and the South African Network for People Who Use Drugs (SANPUD) to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day at the JB Marks treatment center in Potchefstroom, North West province. The theme for the day was “Recognizing those people who go unseen,” emphasizing the need to raise awareness around the silent killer of drug overdose and the stigma surrounding overdose fatalities.

Gender data plays a crucial role in illuminating disparities between men and women in all aspects of life. It provides insights into their respective contributions to society and the economy, as well as the challenges each group faces. Gender statistics are essential for developing policies that promote gender equality and empower women and girls. They also help monitor progress and identify areas where more work is needed to achieve equitable outcomes.

Cape Town’s Central Business District (CBD) is a bustling 384hectare economic hub situated near the harbor, convention district, historic BoKaap, District Six, and other areas like De Waterkant and the Parliamentary Precinct. The CBD serves as a trendsetter for Cape Town’s development, and as the city prepares for a postpandemic future, urban planners are envisioning a more liveable, resilient, attractive, and inclusive district.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has opened the newly expanded SAPS DNA analysis Laboratory in Gqeberha, which is a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of timely and efficient justice for victims of crime, particularly those affected by genderbased violence and femicide.

The recent heavy rainfall in the City has caused the water table levels to rise, leading to challenges for cemeteries. The Recreation and Parks Department has been working towards finding solutions for these difficulties. Maitland Cemetery has been the most affected by this unfavorable weather, resulting in the closure of the cemetery and relocation of funerals to Welmoed Cemetery.

In celebration of Women’s Month, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa commends the strides made in integrating women into the country’s law enforcement agencies. In his address at the Integrated Women in Law Enforcement Parade, the President highlights the progress made towards building a nonsexist society, where women enjoy equal rights and opportunities as guaranteed by the Constitution.

The North West Provincial Executive Council (EXCO) recently held a meeting in Klerksdorp to discuss pressing issues and find opportunities for growth. Premier Bushy Maape, who is currently recovering at home, was wished a speedy recovery as his presence is crucial for decisionmaking in the province.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni recently visited the site of a fire that took place in the Johannesburg central business district. The fire occurred at the corner of Alberts and Delvers Street and has raised concerns about the safety and infrastructure of the city.

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport recently released its Annual Report for the 2022/23 financial year. The report, delivered by the Honourable Kedibone DialeTlabela, highlights the department’s significant achievements and strategic approach in the face of COVID19 pandemic and global uncertainties.

The City’s Human Settlements Roadshow is an initiative designed to address the human settlement needs of residents across the metro. This proactive approach to community engagement demonstrates the City’s commitment to fostering trust and enhancing the lives of its residents.

On a tragic day in August 2023, a building in Johannesburg’s central business district caught fire, resulting in the loss of many lives. The devastation left the community shaken and in need of aid. MEC for Social Development, Mbali Hlophe, rose to the occasion, providing support to the survivors.

The Limpopo Division of High Court in Polokwane has sentenced Motsepane Lolo Madigoe to multiple life terms for rape, assault, kidnapping, and housebreaking. Madigoe was arrested in October 2020, putting an end to his sixyearlong reign of terror in the Seleteng village in Capricorn District.

The Western Cape Mobility Department and City of Cape Town have reported an overwhelming demand for meteredtaxi operating licenses in the province. Despite the availability of only a limited number of licenses, the number of applications received has already surpassed the total slots.

South Africa’s Parliament is currently working on enhancing the ease of doing business in the country. Two bills have been tabled that aim to increase transparency around beneficial ownership and remuneration policies while implementing recommendations from the Zondo Commission of Inquiry on State Capture. The Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, provided insights into these bills while addressing the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee.

Ms. Judith Tshabalala, the Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, recently recognized the invaluable role of women in water resource management. This article examines their contributions and the impact of their work on South Africa’s socioeconomic growth, public health, and environmental conservation.