In July 2023, tragedy struck the community of Site B, Khayelitsha, as a security guard lost his life, and another was injured in a violent shooting while escorting Water and Sanitation inspectors. The officials were ensuring that janitorial services for taps and toilets in the informal settlements were meeting cleanliness, repair, and maintenance standards. This incident highlights the persistent challenge of providing clean water and dignified sanitation in vulnerable communities and the dangers faced by officials in their pursuit of service delivery.

At the recent BRICS Urbanisation Forum in Durban, South Africa, Minister Thembi Nkadimeng discussed the importance of building urban resilience in BRICS cities. As urbanization continues to accelerate, cities face numerous challenges related to infrastructure, resources, and communities. To address these challenges, effective governance, policy frameworks, and collaborative efforts are essential.

Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC Nonkqubela Pieters recently handed over a shearing shed and dipping tank worth R1.4 million to the Upper Mkapusi Wool Growers Association in the Emalahleni Local Municipality. The initiative is part of DRDAR’s commitment to commercialize communal and emerging farmers, provide infrastructure, and create jobs to improve business enterprises income.

The 12th session of the DRCSouth Africa Business Forum was a significant moment for the partnership between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and South Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa led the meeting, which highlighted the countries’ vast potential for industrial and economic growth. Mutual investment was emphasized as a crucial factor in strengthening their respective economies.

On July 21, 2023, South Africa witnessed a significant step forward with the Ministerial Launch of the National Tracer Study of Doctoral Graduates. The study, the first of its kind in the nation, aims to understand the role and impact of doctoral graduates in South African society and the economy. Esteemed dignitaries, including the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, and representatives from Science Councils and National Research Institutions, graced the occasion.

On July 11, 2023, Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, will convene a stakeholder engagement with property practitioners and real estate companies in Sandton. The aim of the meeting, taking place at the Hilton Hotel on Rivonia Road, is to establish collaboration within the sector, discuss the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority’s role, and explore ways to enhance the provision of sustainable human settlements.

Recently, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr. Gwede Mantashe, addressed the MPRDA Review Summit held at Indaba Hotel in Fourways. The summit brought together government officials, industry leaders, and various stakeholders to discuss the future of South Africa’s mining industry.

The North West Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Roads, Community Safety, and Transport Management expresses concern over the increase in crime incidents in the province. ## Increase in Crime Statistics

The BRICS Urbanisation Forum is set to take place in Durban, KwaZuluNatal, South Africa, from July 26 to 27, 2023. The theme of the event is “Advancing urban resilience for sustainable cities and towns for future generations” and will be led by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Ms. Thembi Nkadimeng. The forum will provide a platform for representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to address crucial urbanisation issues and offer policy advice to the leaders of the BRICS countries.

The Metro South Education District in South Africa has launched a program to enhance the performance of Grade 10 learners in Mathematics. The initiative, known as #BackOnTrack, aims to provide students with the necessary mathematical skills to succeed in their final three years of schooling. This article delves into the key components of the program and highlights the cooperative efforts that have made it possible.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has teamed up with Santam Heavy Haulage, Sanlam, Master Drive, and Fleetwatch to launch a road safety awareness campaign. The campaign aims to educate and equip truck and bus drivers with knowledge on how to prevent accidents and promote safer road conduct.

The South African Department of Employment and Labor Minister, Mr. Thulas Nxesi, has raised concerns about the increasing number of violations of basic employee registrations. During an inspection at the Golden Ridge Estate, a Kirkwoodbased farming estate, which contributes significantly to the Eastern Cape’s GDP, he emphasized the need for employers to adhere to labor laws.

The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) is committed to commercializing emerging and communal farmers. As part of this initiative, MEC Nonkqubela Pieters will be handing over a fully equipped shearing shed to wool growers in Qaga Village.