Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, stressed the need for policies informed by science in the water sector, claiming that this method is essential for the nation’s ongoing success. Mahlobo spoke at the 50th Congress of International Association of Hydrogeologists, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, and advocated for a sciencebased approach to policy development. This approach, he believes, will lead to better decisionmaking and ultimately improve the lives of the people.

On September 21, 2023, a pivotal gathering occurred within South Africa’s energy sector. Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister in The Presidency for Electricity, joined forces with the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) to hold a Transmission Financing Seminar. The event’s purpose was to explore funding options for South Africa’s Transmission Development Plan, a strategic blueprint focused on enhancing, sustaining, and safeguarding the nation’s energy mix and electricity provision.

A chilling road rage situation occurred on the busy streets of Durbanville, leaving the victim deeply disturbed and the instigator confronting legal repercussions. The alleged attacker, 45yearold Juan Truter, is accused of firing shots towards another driver, Sharon van Wyk, in a dangerous fit of fury. This startling event has initiated an ongoing inquiry and reignited the conversation around road safety and responsible driving.

The tragic murder of 37yearold waiter Raynold Matusa on August 24th left the Claremont community in shock and sadness. Despite the grief, a sense of unity emerged as residents rallied to support Matusa’s family during their difficult time. Matusa, who served at Mama Roma in Newlands, was a beloved and respected figure in the community. His sudden and brutal death was difficult for many to process. The situation became even more challenging when Matusa’s remains needed to be transported back to his home country of Zimbabwe. The high costs of repatriation seemed like a daunting task for his family to handle.

Subtitle: Examining the Evolving Duties and Responsibilities of Pharmacists and Pharmacy Support Staff ## The Expanding Role of Pharmacists and Pharmacy Support Personnel

South Africa’s stateowned freight and logistics firm, Transnet, has faced criticism lately due to its underperformance and subsequent negative consequences on the nation’s economy and export competitiveness. The Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr. Pravin Gordhan, has actively engaged in addressing these issues and has received a letter from the Association of South African Chambers (ASAC) urging decisive measures.

In the Lejweleleputswa District Municipality of Free State province, a remarkable program is transforming the lives of former miners and their families. The Exminers Compensation Outreach, a joint venture between the Departments of Health, Minerals Resources & Energy, and Employment & Labour, aims to identify and support eligible individuals who have not received their pension and provident funds or have developed occupational health diseases like Silicosis from working in mines.

The Human Settlements Sector is poised for significant progress with the introduction of an updated framework aimed at guiding municipalities in their management of national housing programs. The Revised Accreditation Framework for Municipalities to Administer National Housing Programmes (2023) is designed to build municipalities’ capacities for carrying out delegated functions while maintaining shortterm delivery capabilities. At a recent meeting attended by Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete, and provincial MECs of Human Settlements (MINMEC), the framework was met with resounding support and approval.

Deputy Premier Nono Maloyi recently made two crucial announcements in an attempt to bring stability and promote development in the Kgosi Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality. The first announcement concerned the appointment of the Acting Kgosi of Bahurutshe ba ga Moiloa in Dinokana, while the second introduced a new program called Operation Bulela Metsi. These announcements are anticipated to have a longlasting effect on the respective communities.

In the vibrant city of Cape Town, small enterprises flourish as the foundation of the local economy. To provide even more support for these critical businesses, the city has introduced the Productivity Efficiency Programme, a citybacked effort aimed at aiding small, medium, and microsized enterprises (SMMEs) in enhancing their operations and preserving jobs. With a proven track record of success, the programme has assisted numerous businesses in increasing their profits and providing employment for a multitude of workers.

The South African government established the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in 1999 to support deserving students in acquiring tertiary education. Over the years, NSFAS has played a critical role in dismantling intergenerational social inequality, enabling students from workingclass and impoverished backgrounds to access postschool education and training. This groundbreaking initiative has provided countless students the opportunity to further their education which otherwise would have been impossible.

Anton Bredell, the Western Cape’s MEC of Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning, emphasizes the importance of incorporating coastal risk data into development planning in light of recent coastal flooding incidents and property damage. The Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning has adopted the Coastal Management Programme as a vital instrument for tackling the challenges presented by such occurrences.

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has expressed grave concern over the recent shooting incident in Daveyton, which resulted in the tragic loss of six lives and one injury. To combat the increasing frequency of mass shootings in taverns, the Committee has introduced measures, such as allocating extra resources, to apprehend the culprits and ensure they are held accountable.

On September 19, 2022, Dr. Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, held a media briefing to share critical updates on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This significant event provided valuable insights into the organization’s role in enhancing the lives of numerous South African students.