Month: April 2024

Chairperson of the Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS), Cedric Limbo has urged towns along the corridor to mobilise resources and avail land to ensure that inland hubs and tract stops are realised along the corridor.

Limbo was speaking during a welcoming event held at Gobabis in the Omaheke region for 30 cyclists from the three TKC member states who have embarked on a cycling challenge from SA’s Rustenburg via Lobatse in Botswana to Walvis Bay, Namibia.

The cycle challenge covering a distance of 1800 kilometres is part of a series of activities planned in commemoration of the TKC agreement between the three countries signed on 03 November 2003.

The ministers of transport from the three member states, Namibia’s John Mutorwa, Eric Molale from Botswana and SA’s Sindisiwe Chikunga have since signed a recommitment pledge to simplify and harmonise the requirements and controls that govern the movement of goods and persons to reduce transport costs and transit times.

‘Local authorities should look at and
collaborate with the private sector to bring much-needed development. Having this cycling event makes such a value proposition easier and we expect the local authorities to grab it with both hands,’ Limbo said.

The cycling challenge, hosted under the theme ‘Transforming the TKC into an Economic Corridor’ is aimed at promoting the corridor and economically developing it to benefit communities that live along the corridor.

‘Corridors can enhance national development and add to the national value chains. However, all such initiatives would fall flat if we do not have economic development along the corridors. Regional and Local Governments, should take up their position and grab the opportunities that the TKC is availing to them. Our people living along the TKC should be able to make a living out of the spin-offs from the TKC,’ Limbo added.

The pledge furthermore stated that the three-member states will continue to promote safety and security on the TKC with the view to ensure the safety of users through regul
ar joint law enforcement operations and border controls.

It additionally reads that the countries will ensure that the road and infrastructure on the TKC is kept in a condition that responds to the needs of the corridor users while promoting spatial development initiatives on the corridor to enhance the livelihoods of persons living along the corridor.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

‘Impunity is no longer a given’.

These are the fighting words of National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi.

She, alongside the National Prosecuting Authority’s executive committee, was addressing a media roundtable on Wednesday.

READ | NPA ‘a long way down the road’ on its vital rebuild

‘The one big difference between what was the position five years ago and what’s the position now… is that impunity is no longer a given and the Steinhoff matter shows that. Even though it might take long. Even though the arm of the law might be long, it catches up.

‘Those that are involved in corrupt activities know – even though there might not be a knock on the door yet – it will come and that in itself is mental incarceration,’ she said.

The NDPP said the NPA has been hard at work to bring cases to court against high profile individuals, including former Ministers, Premiers, a former President and ‘some of the most powerful CEOs and CFOs across the country both in the private sector as w
ell as public’.

‘In the last five years, we have almost 700 government officials that have been convicted of corruption in the Specialised Commercial Crime Unit [SCCU] space. In 2023 and 2024, the SCCU achieved 329 convictions in serious and complex commercial crime cases, resulting in a conviction rate of 88.7%.

‘The SCCU has enrolled four cases relating to 16 recommendations in the Zondo Commission reports… and several other matters will be ready for enrolment in the coming months.

‘The ID [Investigating Directorate] has declared 103 investigations. They’ve enrolled 37 cases involving 208 accused persons as of January 2024.”

Batohi said South Africans need to understand that getting to the judgment stage is a lengthy process led by the judiciary.

‘Even when we do bring cases to court, then you have Stalingrad tactics that start. Very often we hear: ‘But you don’t have people in orange overalls’.

‘But it needs to be understood that once we enrol a case, it needs to move swiftly through the system so th
at we get to the end where you can say that a decision has been rendered by the judiciary.

‘That process in court is led by the judiciary. We’ve been engaging with the Chief Justice [Raymond Zondo] and various Judge Presidents to see how we could actually fast track cases through the court system,’ Batohi said.

The NDPP vowed that despite challenges, the NPA will continue to prosecute without fear or favour.

‘I have every confidence that… if we could achieve what we have done with very little, that the days are certainly numbered in terms of those who will be before the courts,’ Batohi said.

Source: South African Government News Agency

A 29-year-old Angolan man allegedly committed suicide at a house at Onamulunga B village in Oshikoto’s Oniipa constituency, where he was employed as a domestic worker.

The Namibian Police Force (NamPol)’s Oshikoto Regional Crime Investigation Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Titus Ekandjo, said the incident happened on Wednesday between 00h00 and 07h00.

The deceased is originally from Onaulila village in Angola and a suicide note was found at the scene.

‘It is alleged that the deceased’s lifeless body was found hanging on a tree with a green rope around his neck at the house where he was employed as a domestic worker,’ reported Ekandjo.

His body was transported to Onandjokwe State Hospital, where he was declared dead by a medical doctor and moved to the hospital’s mortuary for postmortem to be conducted.

No foul play is suspected.

The next of kin are not yet informed and investigations continue.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

The Chancellor of the National Orders, Director-General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, has announced the recipients of National Orders.

On Tuesday, Baleni made public the names of South Africans and foreign nationals, who will be awarded National Orders at a prestigious ceremony on 30 April 2024.

The National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa, through the President, bestows on citizens and well-known foreign nationals, who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have significantly impacted the lives of South Africans.

The awards also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa, as envisaged in the Constitution.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

The Order of Mendi

The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.

The Order of Mendi in Silver recipients:

Mawilliams Kekana (posthumously): For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters when it was illegal to align with revolutionaries. She offered her house as a haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.

Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule (posthumously): For his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid. He is among many lost sons and daughters, whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown, as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval, where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.

Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu (posthumously): For his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa. He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the
safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.

Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.

Coline Denise Williams (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.

The Order of Ikhamanga

The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.

The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold recipients:

Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabuva (posthumously): For her excellent contribution to the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle. Her affinity for history and storytelling through journalism informed
and enlightened the nation.

Aggrey Klaaste (posthumously): For his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation-builder with a vision for an equal and thriving society.

Madala Muzwakhe Kunene: For his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.

The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver recipients:

Agnus Gibson: For his contribution to filmmaking. He strived to provide a haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was normalised and practised with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history and youth culture.

Emile Lester Jansen: For his contribution to the field of arts and hip-hop culture in South Africa. His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon n
ow firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip-hop.

Saray Nkusi Khumalo: For being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.

Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu: For her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.

Madosini Latozi Mphahleni (posthumously): For her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation’s identity and cultural heritage.

Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (posthumously): For his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledg
e through his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.

The Order of the Baobab

The Order of the Baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.

The Order of the Baobab in Gold recipients:

Blanche Valeria La Guma (posthumously): For her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans. She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.

Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe: For her commitment to realising social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of stokvels for financial empowerment. Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable.

The Order of Luthuli

The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human
rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.

The Order of Luthuli in Gold recipients:

Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended by defending the principles of a just and equal society. Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.

Peter Cyril Jones (posthumously): For his courageous contribution in mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for the Black Consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people.

Benjamin Langa (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa. He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end. His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.

Thobekile ‘Tobsy’ Madaka (posthumously): For his gallant fight agai
nst the oppression of our people. He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.

Siphiwo Mthimkhulu (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.

Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu: For his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa. He has straddled academia and political activism with the goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many Black Consciousness activists and others.

Kenneth Rachidi (posthumously): For his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality. He lived by the eth
ics of Black Consciousness. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remain a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.

Annie Silinga (posthumously): For her commitment to the liberation struggle. She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.

Nokuthula Simelane (posthumously): For her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives. She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime. Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.

The Order of Mapungubwe

The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.

The Order of Mapungubwe in Silver:

Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (posthumously): For his enormous contribution to academia and research in the field of aerospace. His outstanding work continues to open d
oors. The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up to him as a mentor.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recipients:

Huub Bammens from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.

Donna Katzin from the United States: For her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid South African businesses get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African businesses and American investors.

Ken Luckhard from Canada: For his selfless service to South Africa through anti-aparth
eid activism. He organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.

Nicholas Stadlen from the United Kingdom: For his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so. He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.

Fulco van Aurich from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. He organised and developed a campaign in the Netherlands to support Radio Freedom.

Brenda Wall from Canada: For her selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.

‘We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa,’ Baleni s
aid.

Source: South African Government News Agency

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the opening of a Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, Durban, is a game-changer in how government provides services to the citizens.

Dube-Ncube joined Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, to officially open the new Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to make services easily accessible to the public.

The new office will offer application and collections services for IDs and passports. Clients will have the convenience of applying for these services as they do their shopping at the centre.

Dube-Ncube said the initiative aims to revolutionise citizen services, emphasising convenience, dignity, and efficiency.

‘The office will bring services closer to where our people shop, bank, eat, stay, play and work. For us, first and foremost, this office will bring dignity to our people,’ Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said the strategic location of the office at the shopping centr
e is expected to alleviate the burden of long queues experienced at other Home Affairs offices in uMngeni, Pinetown and the Durban city centre.

‘By integrating government services into everyday spaces that people already frequent, the initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance the overall experience for citizens. Moreover, the presence of a government office within a bustling shopping centre is poised to redefine the public’s perception of and interaction with government services.

‘To have a government office in a shopping centre will change how people perceive and interact with government and it will bring efficiency and agility. By embracing innovation and adapting to contemporary needs, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of responsiveness and accessibility within the public sector,’ Dube-Ncube said.

WATCH | Opening of the Pavilion Shopping Centre Home Affairs office

Home Affairs extended working hours.

Motsoaledi reiterated that the department wants to ensure that it brings services to
the people where they are.

‘We promised Parliament that we are going to expand the platforms where South Africans receive Home Affairs services. One of those platforms is to expand to malls,’ Motsoaledi said.

The opening of Home Affairs office follows the launch of offices at Menlyn Shopping Centre at Pretoria East in March 2023, and Cresta in April 2024.

READ | Home Affairs opens three offices this Saturday

In his 2023 Budget Vote Speech, Motsoaledi announced that his department wants to create multiple platforms to assist people with applications for their IDs, passports, and other essential documents.

Source: South African Government News Agency

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has conveyed her well wishes to trainee officers, who will be embarking on the final selection process to train as traffic officers.

These officers are part of the national recruitment drive undertaken by the Road Traffic Management Corporation to reduce unemployment and create job opportunities for the youth, women and persons with disabilities

‘We anticipate enrolling 600 trainee traffic officers to officially commence training on 1 June 2024. It is pleasing to note that about 40% of traffic officer recruits who are due to start training this year are females. Traffic law enforcement has historically been the domain of men,’ the Minister said on Wednesday.

These trainees will enroll on a three-year traffic officer’s curriculum at a National Qualification Framework (NQF) level six, which is an equivalent of a national diploma. The NQF level six qualification was introduced in 2019 and the first cohort of 257 traffic officers trained on this curriculum graduated in 202
3.

Addressing the trainee officers in Pretoria, the Minister explained that the training comprises compulsory knowledge modules (which is theory), practical modules, and work experience modules. Crime prevention forms an integral part of the training.

‘This new qualification will go a long way towards the professionalisation of the road traffic law enforcement sector, ensuring respect, integrity, discipline, ethics and regaining public respect, as well as improving the ability of officers to enforce the law and reduce road traffic crashes.

‘Traffic law enforcement training in our country has undergone a fundamental change to ensure that we produce well equipped officers who are able to effectively contribute to efforts to deal with the scourge of lawlessness which leads to the high number of crashes and fatalities on the roads.

‘Poor ethical conduct has severely tainted the reputation of traffic law enforcement among road users, and the public in general. This also contributes largely to the lawlessness o
n the roads as many road users believe they can get away with transgressions through bribery and corruption,’ Chikunga said.

She said she is certain that the recruitment process has been rigorous enough to uphold high ethical standards.

‘All recruits, without exception, have undergone a pre-selection vetting process to check criminal records, verification of qualifications and checking biographical history to determine suitability for selection into the training programme.

‘All the candidates will have to undergo medical assessment and only those who pass the assessment will be enrolled. After completing the course and on appointment as traffic officers, they must again be vetted in their first year of operation as officers and this must be repeated every five years to ensure that they remain on the straight and narrow. This is the only way to restore dignity and respect to our officers,’ the Minister said.

The event took place at the newly upgraded Boekenhoutkloof Traffic Training Academy, which is set t
o serve as a Centre of Excellence in traffic training in South Africa, once construction of the second phase and third phase are completed.

‘The accepted cohort of recruits will be the first ones to undertake training in these awe-inspiring premises when they officially open their doors in the next few weeks.

‘Since 2019, training of our traffic officers was taking place at rented facilities while this 21st century academy was under construction. We commend the RTMC for their visionary insight in construction of these facilities as the outstanding home for traffic officer training in the country,’ Chikunga said.

Source: South African Government News Agency