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Cape Town News
The BreedeOlifants Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA) and the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) have launched an enforcement campaign in Klein Karoo to address illegal water use and ensure adherence to the National Water Act. The Blue Scorpion Inspectorate, consisting of BOCMA and DWS personnel, is conducting inspections to catch wrongdoers and promote responsible water usage. The campaign highlights the significance of water conservation and the role of government agencies in preserving natural resources for sustainable future generations.
Malaria is a lifethreatening disease that is preventable and treatable if detected early. The South African Department of Health has implemented various response strategies to prevent and control malaria, including screening and testing for malaria at borders, indoor residual spraying, and public education campaigns. Travelers can take precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing longsleeved clothing, and sleeping under mosquito nets to protect themselves. However, ongoing challenges such as climatic changes and drugresistant strains of the parasite present a continued challenge for healthcare providers and researchers.
SA Connect is a project aimed at providing WiFi access to communities throughout South Africa and increasing broadband penetration while stimulating economic growth. On November 4, 2023, the second phase of the project was launched in Mount Ayliff, Eastern Cape Province. This initiative has created jobs for 120 skilled professionals and semiskilled laborers and is projected to generate employment opportunities for 4,505 skilled professionals and semiskilled workers. The project plans to establish over 32,000 community WiFi hotspots and achieve 80% internet connectivity for the nation’s population by the end of the 2024/25 fiscal year.
The Portfolio Committee on Infrastructure Development and Property Management in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature is set to revisit Mayibuye Primary School in Tembisa to assess any progress made since the school’s construction completion in 2017 and establish whether learners have started using the facility. The school has remained unoccupied for years after its completion, and the Committee aims to assess if any progress has been made in resolving the issue and holding the responsible individuals accountable. The Committee will also visit New Kempton Park High School and Lake Side Primary School to address other infrastructure challenges faced by schools in the region.
The Fostering Economic Empowerment for Disabled Entrepreneurs and Business Owners webinar aimed to decrease economic vulnerability and empower individuals with disabilities. The event featured expert speakers who shared stories, solutions, and ideas to create an inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Attendees discussed bridging the gap between policy and implementation, the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors, and innovative initiatives aimed at assisting disabled entrepreneurs and business owners. The webinar served as a catalyst for the vital cause of ensuring the economic rights of individuals with disabilities.
The event highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration in shaping the future of TVET education in South Africa. South West Gauteng TVET College recently hosted a Partnership Breakfast to discuss the future of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa. The gathering aimed to emphasize the significance of TVET colleges in preparing young South Africans for employment and promoting socioeconomic growth. Stakeholders discussed obstacles and opportunities facing the TVET sector and explored collaborative strategies for improving the quality and relevance of technical and vocational education in the country.
The BMW 2000 SA and 2004 SA are exclusive variants of the legendary BMW 2002 made specifically for the South African market. The models originated from the Glas 1700, which BMW acquired in 1966 and utilized its technology. The BMW 1800 SA and 2000 SA were the first BMWs produced in South Africa, and their updated versions, the BMW 1804 SA and 2004 SA, had a short but memorable production run, leaving a lasting impression on the motoring scene and paving the way for future models. Today, they are highly sought after by collectors and symbolize BMW’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
Cape Town has seen a decrease in fireworksrelated complaints during Guy Fawkes festivities, with law enforcement officials receiving 225 calls about unauthorized fireworks discharge, a decrease from last year. However, officials still face challenges in some neighborhoods, and the unpredictable nature of fireworks discharge makes it difficult to apprehend culprits. Awareness and community involvement are crucial in combating unlawful activities and antisocial behavior. Despite the progress made, the city still faces challenges in addressing Guy Fawkes celebrations and ensuring the safety of its inhabitants yearround.
Minister Sihle Zikalala visited the United Kingdom to showcase over 70 infrastructure projects across sectors such as energy, water, digital infrastructure, transport, human settlements, and agriculture. He worked to strengthen ties and attract investment in the infrastructure sector through bilateral meetings and highprofile events. The visit highlighted the importance of infrastructure in promoting sustainable economic growth and development in South Africa, paving the way for future growth and prosperity.
The North West Provincial Legislature is collaborating with cultural organizations to enhance the lives of its citizens and preserve cultural heritage while nurturing creativity for a brighter future. Through partnerships with the Department of Arts, Culture, Sports, and Recreation, and the Mmabana Arts, Culture, and Sports Foundation, the legislature aims to track progress and establish strategic objectives for ongoing expansion and development of these sectors. The recent oversight meeting highlighted the balanced evaluation of past accomplishments and areas needing improvement, ensuring accountability and pursuing constant improvement for the future. This model is an exemplary template for other regions to emulate, promoting a culture of accountability and cooperation for lasting impact on the region’s cultural and sporting domains.
A scandal has emerged in South Africa’s Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality involving the procurement of a nonexistent R38 million call centre. The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Premier, Finance, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs is investigating the mismanagement of public funds meant for service delivery. The investigation uncovered a complex web of deception and corruption, including violations of the Municipal Finance Management Act and Municipal Systems Act. The Committee demands justice for the people affected by the scandal, while the fight against corruption in South Africa continues.
The Port of Cape Town is facing an export crisis due to inefficiencies and underperformance, and private sector involvement is urgently needed to enhance the port’s efficiency and ensure economic growth for the Western Cape and South Africa. A 10% increase in exports leads to 1% GDP growth, and the involvement of the private sector can significantly improve port operations. The need for private sector participation is critical to generating thousands of jobs in the province and throughout South Africa and to realizing the region’s immense economic potential.
The ZA Domain Name Authority, or .zadna, is seeking public nominations for nonexecutive board members to help improve its functions and foster a dynamic and allencompassing digital landscape in South Africa. Nominees should exemplify integrity, honesty, transparency, ethical leadership, professional competence, and due diligence and possess a minimum of 5 years of Board experience and at least 8 years in an Executive or Senior Management role within the ICT sector. The organization is working towards building a platform that caters to the digital requirements of the nation, promoting economic and social growth.
Operation Shanela, a coordinated effort by the South African Police Service to tackle crime in the North West Province, resulted in the arrest of 617 suspects for a range of criminal offenses. The operation utilized multiple strategies, including stopandsearch operations and tracking down wanted suspects, leading to the recovery of mandrax tablets, weapons, ammunition, and cellphones. The success of Operation Shanela demonstrates the dedication and expertise of law enforcement in preserving public safety and order, promising a decline in crime rates and a safer environment for communities.
The primary goal of the threeday conference on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) organized by the South African Department of Employment and Labour in Durban is to ensure continuous improvement and responsive policies enforced through strategic collaboration by the inspectorate. The conference aims to exchange best practices and foster stakeholder collaboration across multiple sectors, including the informal economy, by creating an atmosphere of collaboration and cooperation to spur the development of innovative solutions to OHS challenges, ultimately contributing to the nation’s broader social and economic objectives.
Cape Town has introduced an online booking system to help residents avoid long queues and waiting times during the busy holiday season. Users can also take advantage of eServices, such as renewing vehicle licenses or submitting water meter readings, to save time and effort. The city has prioritized senior citizens, pregnant individuals, and disabled customers to expedite their transactions, and diverse payment options are available for municipal and City rental payments.
