ISRAEL LATEST ATTACKS ON GAZA @KASIBCNEWS

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) unequivocally condemns the latest mass killings of Palestinians by the apartheid state of Israel, which on 15 May 2025 massacred over 140 innocent people, including 45 children, in Gaza and continued its systematic campaign of destruction against hospitals, clinics, and vital infrastructure in Gaza.

This latest attack coincided with the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, the catastrophic expulsion of over 700,000 Palestinians from their land in 1948 to make way for the colonial creation of Israel.

That this bloodshed occurred on Nakba Day is not accidental, it is part of the sustained and deliberate cruelty that has become a hallmark of the Zionist state.

To murder Palestinians in their sleep on the very day that marks their historical dispossession is to rub salt into generations of open wounds. This is the real genocide — the deliberate annihilation of a people through mass killings, starvation, the denial of humanitarian aid, and the decimation of every means of survival.

Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have now been slaughtered in Israel’s brutal and illegal assault, with the full backing of the United States and its allies.

The EFF calls on the international community to stop entertaining the double standards of Western imperialist powers. While the United States tries to distract the world with politically motivated unfounded accusations of a white genocide against South Africa — the very country that has led the charge against Israeli war crimes at the International Court of Justice — it is actively arming and funding the real genocide in Gaza.

We, therefore, reject with contempt this attempt to divert global attention away from the suffering of the Palestinian people through “refugee” programmes for white supremacists. The billions in military aid sent by the US government to Israel are not for “defence”; they are bullets for the bodies of Palestinian children, missiles for hospitals, and tanks for refugee camps.

In light of this, the EFF reaffirms its call for the complete isolation of Israel. All diplomatic, economic, cultural, and sporting ties must be severed until the apartheid regime is dismantled and justice is restored to the people of Palestine.

We further reiterate our call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador from South Africa and the closure of the Israeli embassy. As South Africa, a nation born of struggle and international solidarity, we refuse to be silent. Palestine will be free in our lifetime.

MURDER JMPD OFFICER WHILST ON DUTY @KASIBCNEWS

The Public Safety MMC in the City of Johannesburg Councillor Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku welcomes the successful arrest of three suspects involved in the murder of JMPD Officer Matome Mokoena, as well as other serious crimes such as possession of illegal firearms, possession of state firearm, house robbery, and murder.

The suspects were apprehended by the JMPD TRU and K9 unit on May 16, 2025, at around 04:00 in Vlakfontein. The operation was informed by crime intelligence, and the TRU unit responded promptly to track down the suspects.

The suspects have been detained at Johannesburg central police station. "We commend the JMPD TRU and K9 units and crime intelligence for their exceptional work in bringing these suspects to justice. Their dedication to keeping our communities safe is truly commendable", Said MMC Dr Tshwaku.

The Public Safety Department will continue to support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat crime and ensure justice is served for victims and their families.

We will ensure that the case is followed up to make sure that these perpetrators are locked up.

R.I.P 155 CHILDREN @KASIBCNEWS

The DA is devastated to learn that 155 children across our country under age 5 have died in public health facilities with moderate (MAM) or severe acute malnutrition (SAM) as an underlying condition since January 2025.

The majority of children affected were in Limpopo (32), Gauteng (30), and KwaZulu-Natal (29)

This has been revealed by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, in answer to a written parliamentary question by the DA.

Last year a staggering rise in malnutrition cases was revealed: severe acute malnutrition in children younger than five has risen by 26% over the past five years.

This is a serious and growing tragedy across South Africa, correlating with a legacy of increasing unemployment and increasing cost of living.

The DA believes that the solution is a cross-cutting intervention, because both the Departments of Health and Social Development must work together to address this.

The Department of Social Development must ensure that mothers, fathers and carers receiving the Child Care grant are assisted and thoroughly informed on the best and most nutritious foodstuffs that the grant should buy every month.

This is not a passive obligation, but one that the Social Development Department and SASSA must do actively for all mothers, fathers and carers who struggle to nourish their children in trying economic circumstances.

The Department of Health must address childhood malnutrition deaths with vastly enhanced public information campaigns on the signs of malnutrition and clear direction on seeking treatment before it is too late.

This must be stopped with greatly improved public information campaigns that reach millions of mothers and carers.

With more than a quarter (28.8%) of South Africa’s children under five being stunted and the number of children still succumbing because of limited access to nutritious food, it is clear that the Departments of Health and Social Development must review and strengthen the effectiveness of interventions.

Working Visit to the Russian Federation @KASIBCNEWS

Minister Lamola has concluded a two-day working visit to the Russian Federation. During his visit to Moscow, Minister Lamola co-chaired the 18th session of the Joint Inter-Governmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) alongside Mr. Alexander Kozlov, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation. ITEC is a structured bilateral mechanism aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation between South Africa and the Russian Federation.

The 18th ITEC session facilitated a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including:

- Trade and Investment: Strengthening economic partnerships and exploring opportunities for mutual growth.

- Agriculture:Enhancing collaboration in sustainable agricultural practices and food security.

- Education:Expanding academic exchanges and skills development initiatives.

- Digital Technologies and Mass Communication: Advancing innovation and connectivity in the digital era.

- Transport:Promoting infrastructure development and logistical efficiency.

On the margins of the ITEC proceedings, Minister Lamola held a constructive dialogue with Mr. Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. The discussions underscored the enduring diplomatic ties between South Africa and the Russian Federation.

Minister Lamola extended sincere appreciation to the Russian Federation for its unwavering support for South Africa’s G20 Presidency and its advocacy for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure that there is equitable representation of the Global South, including African nations, within multilateral institutions.

In reaffirming South Africa’s principled commitment to global peace and stability, Minister Lamola emphasised the urgent imperative of resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict through inclusive dialogue and diplomacy. He articulated profound concern over the devastating humanitarian consequences of the conflict, including the tragic loss of civilian lives, destruction of critical infrastructure, and broader regional instability.

South Africa reiterates its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities to pave the way for a negotiated settlement. Such a process must be anchored in the principles of international law, including the United Nations Charter, and uphold the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of all states. South Africa stands ready to support all credible inclusive multilateral efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of conflicts , achieving a just, sustainable, and comprehensive peace.

South Africa participates in several initiatives aimed at bringing about peace between Russia and Ukraine, including the African Peace Initiative, the Ukraine Peace Formula process and the Joint Group of Friends for Peace. South Africa’s approach in these processes are to emphasise peace and the acceleration of humanitarian assistance. In this regard, at the held Ministerial Conference on the Human Dimension of the Ukraine Peace Formula that was held in Montreal, Canada, in October 2024, South Africa agreed to work with Qatar and the Holy See to engage with both parties to the conflict regarding the return of children to Ukraine.

South Africa remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering international cooperation and peaceful resolution to conflicts.

PASSING OF TWO EDUCATORS @KASIBCNEWS

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of two male educators (aged 26 and 28) from Ennerdale Secondary School in Johannesburg, who had been reported missing over the weekend. Their deaths have now been linked to a fatal motor vehicle accident that took place on Saturday, 12 April 2025.

According to information at our disposal, the motor vehicle accident occurred on Saturday morning on the R28 near the Lenasia turnoff in Jachtfontein. One of the two vehicles that were involved in the incident reportedly had three occupants. Tragically, two of the three occupants - the two educators - were declared deceased on the scene. The circumstances surrounding this incident are currently under investigation by police.

“We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, as well as to the learners, colleagues, and the broader Ennerdale school community. This is an immense loss to the education sector, and to all who knew and worked with these educators,” said MEC Chiloane.

The GDE has arranged for wellness professionals, including support from the Teddy Bear Clinic, to visit the school and provide trauma counselling and psychosocial support to both staff and learners following the school’s internal communication of the tragic news.

Taxi Rank @KASIBCNEWS

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Moqhaka will be writing to the municipal manager and portfolio director to address the growing crisis of illegal taxi ranks, which are compromising public safety, obstructing main roads, and undermining confidence in the formal transport system.

This intervention follows increasing pressure from the Public Safety Portfolio Committee, which has demanded that the issue be urgently addressed by Provincial and Local Traffic Departments, law enforcement authorities, and taxi associations.

Station Street is currently the only legal taxi rank in the area. However, unregulated and illegal taxi operations have been observed along Oranje, Brand, and Reitz Streets in Kroonstad.

These illegal ranks are being occupied by taxis operating without permits, rendering roads impassable for legitimate users. These areas have also become hotspots for crime.

To restore order, the DA will:

Call on city authorities and the police to intensify action against unauthorised taxi operations and ensure only compliant operators are licensed to operate on the roads.

Support targeted investment in infrastructure for regulated taxi ranks, including designated parking bays, shelters, and facilities that cater to passenger needs.

Launch public awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers of illegal taxis and promote the use of regulated transport services.

Convene a roundtable with stakeholders, including taxi associations, passenger forums, and enforcement agencies, to collectively address the root causes of informal operations and develop sustainable, legal alternatives.

Allowing unlawful taxi ranks to operate on our streets presents a serious threat to public safety and weakens the local transport infrastructure.

Legitimate operators are disadvantaged, roads become congested, and law-abiding citizens are exposed to increased criminal activity.

By taking action now, the DA aims to help maintain order, enhance road safety, and preserve local economic activity through properly managed taxi operations.
We believe in safe, accessible, and efficient public transport for all citizens.

Free Screenings, Edutainment, and Impactful Awareness @KASIBCNEWS

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) South Africa is proud to announce its proposed participation at The Rand Show 2025 as part of the exhibition’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives. AHF seeks to offer visitors a range of free, high-impact health services and educational engagement - bringing health to the heart of the community at one of the country’s most iconic events.

Operating in 47 countries and present in South Africa since 2002, the AHF is the world’s largest non-profit HIV and AIDS healthcare provider, funded primarily through private donors, global partnerships, and a self-sustaining social enterprise model. With a presence in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape, and Gauteng, AHF partners with provincial Departments of Health to reach underserved populations and expand access to care.

At The Rand Show 2025, AHF proposes an engaging, family-friendly health activation, including:

Free health screenings for HIV, TB, STIs, and blood pressure

Condom distribution and safer sex education, supported by friendly condom mascots

An interactive Commitment Wall, games, and giveaways

Health awareness documentaries screened on-site
Visibility for the Girls Act programme, which promotes empowerment and health education for adolescent girls and young women

In partnership with the Gauteng Department of Health, AHF will ensure smooth linkage and referral of individuals for further care and support. The mobile van and gazebo setup will serve as an accessible hub for both services and awareness, making public health approachable, informative, and entertaining.

“This initiative aligns with The Rand Show’s commitment to community upliftment and offers a unique opportunity to extend essential healthcare services to thousands of attendees,” says Ngaa Murombedzi, Southern Africa Regional Advocacy and Policy Manager for AHF South Africa. “It also represents a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can drive real change in South Africa’s health outcomes.”

AHF’s presence promises to amplify the event’s value offering while enhancing The Rand Show’s reputation as a socially responsible platform. It brings health services directly to the public at no cost, making it a valuable initiative and a practical way to help meet national health goals.

GAUTENG GOVERNMENT FIGHT AGAINST CRIME @KASIBCNEWS

The Gauteng Provincial Government, in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), municipal law enforcement agencies, and local municipalities across the province, has today signed a landmark Safety and Security Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at intensifying the province’s fight against crime, violence and lawlessness.

The agreement was formally signed by political and law enforcement leadership at a public event held in Johannesburg, accompanied by a symbolic joint parade showcasing the unity of Gauteng’s security forces. The MoU represents a strategic step forward in embedding a whole-ofgovernment and whole-of-society approach to building safer, more secure communities across Gauteng.

The MoU outlines a comprehensive five-year framework for intergovernmental cooperation, bringing together SAPS, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, municipal police departments, district and local municipalities, Community Policing Forums (CPFs), and Gauteng Crime Wardens. Key areas of cooperation include: • Joint law enforcement operations across municipal boundaries • Intelligence sharing and joint training • Combatting crimes such as drug trafficking, cable theft, illegal mining, GBVF, illegal firearms, and parlous buildings • Community-based safety campaigns and capacity building
The agreement establishes eight dedicated workstreams, including intelligence-led operations, e-policing, legal and training frameworks, GBVF interventions, monitoring and evaluation, and coordination of resources and infrastructure.

As a practical demonstration of the MoU in effect, joint law enforcement operations were conducted today in key hotspots, with active participation from SAPS, Metro Police Departments, municipal enforcement units, CPFs, and the Gauteng Crime Wardens. These operations signal a coordinated and visible commitment to reclaiming public spaces and protecting residents.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi praised the signing as a powerful moment of unity and decisive leadership, stating that Gauteng law enforcement agencies were no longer operating in silos. “Today, we are united under one vision and one plan to protect the people of our province. I thank all the municipalities who signed this MoU for abandoning unnecessary bureaucracy and putting the safety of our residents first,” said the Premier Premier Lesufi further emphasised the link between safety and economic development, saying that the economy of Gauteng would not grow, and that job creation would be hampered with high levels of crime. “This signature is a signal that we are taking back our province.

We are pulling all resources so that we can go into Johannesburg, pull it back, and reclaim it. We are liberating its streets for the people of this province,” said Premier Lesufi.

The signing of the agreement forms part of the province’s integrated response to the 13 most pressing challenges identified in the Premier’s State of the Province Address, which include: • Unemployment • Cable theft and critical infrastructure vandalism • Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) • Drug abuse and criminal syndicates • Illegal mining • Water and electricity insecurity • Proliferation of informal settlements • Poor service delivery in hospitals and clinics • Failing infrastructure and deteriorating CBDs • Non-functional traffic lights • Illegal trading and parlous buildings • Crime and lawlessness • Insufficient access to education and schools

The Safety and Security MoU directly addresses these issues through coordinated enforcement, infrastructure protection, and public order restoration initiatives. The MoU is active for a period of five years and will be reviewed annually by all parties to ensure measurable progress, transparency, and responsiveness to emerging safety challenges.

It empowers each participating authority to lead interventions in their areas of jurisdiction, while ensuring collaboration across borders.

The agreement further aligns with the priorities of the Gauteng Growing Together 2030 Plan, reinforcing safety and security as a foundation for inclusive development, mobility, and investment attraction.

Rand Show 2025 @KASIBCNEWS

Johannesburg, South Africa: 15 April 2025 - Get ready to dive into an enchanting world of marine wonder as The Rand Show, South Africa's most iconic consumer show, unveils its Ocean Wanders experience in Hall 8. This brand-new attraction was unveiled yesterday among much excitement.

The experience is included in the price of the entry ticket and promises an exciting journey beneath the waves, bringing the beauty and mystery of the ocean to life for visitors of all ages.

From 17–21 April at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, Ocean Wanders will transport families into a underwater digital world with interactive exhibits, educational experiences, and marine-themed displays designed to inspire curiosity, while being a lot of fun.

A deep dive into adventure
Ocean Wanders offers a fusion of entertainment and education, making it a must-visit destination within The Rand Show. Visitors can look forward to:
Immersive ocean displays: Walk through mesmerising virtual marine-themed exhibits showcasing the diversity and magic of the underwater world.
Touch and Feel: Engage with hands-on activities that educate children and adults alike on marine life and the mysteries of the sea.

Glow-in-the-dark ocean tunnel: Step into an illuminated passage where glowing sea creatures and ocean landscapes come to life in a visual spectacle.

Parent-friendly lounges and refreshments: A comfortable retreat for parents looking to relax with their feet in the sand while keeping an eye on their little adventurers.

A high-energy DJ: will host the area, keeping the excitement going as mermaids and pirates guide kids through a treasure hunt.

Beach sand play areas: Dive into a world of creativity and fun, with interactive sand play areas, children they can dig, build, and discover hidden treasures. Adding to the magic, a professional sand artist will be sculpting stunning sea creatures, bringing the ocean-inspired theme to life.

The Kids Zone, featuring Ocean Wanders, is set to be an unforgettable adventure for little explorers. Children can get glow in dark face painting done, jump on trampolines, play glow in the dark golf, watch stage acts and entertainment, play in a soft play area, eat delicious candyfloss and more.

The Rand Show 2025 is offering an inspiring and fun-filled experience for families, educators, and ocean and beach enthusiasts alike.

#OceanWanders #thebestplacetobe #RandShow2025

Tickets are available for purchase at Ticketpro and at the door.

#MAKEKASIGREAT

R65BILLION ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE @KASIBCNEWS

Motorists and passengers across the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) face daily dangers when travelling along the city roads, having to dodge potholes and navigate the disintegrating roads. Despite these challenges, the City has only allocated R449 million to fix roads for the entire metro in the 2024/25 budget. While it will cost R65 Billion to repair the worst 1619km of roads across Ekurhuleni.

This represents 7% of what is needed to repair the worst roads.

This information was revealed in a reply to the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) written questions tabled to the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Jacob Mamabolo, in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL).

The last assessment of the condition of all roads in the CoE was conducted in 2019, referred to as the “Pavement Management System”. According to the reply, 8,245.53km of roads were assessed for their structural condition and were categorised as follows:

• Very Good 19.54%

• Good 12.97%

• Fair 37.27%

• Poor 9.98%

• Very Poor 20.06%

Since the 2019 assessment, the conditions of the City’s roads have deteriorated considerably, and the cost of repairs would have ballooned.

With the current budget set aside for road maintenance, the City cannot even keep up with repairing potholes and roads.

A DA-led Gauteng Provincial government would immediately assess the maintenance needs of all roads in the province and work with municipalities to ensure that they have sufficient money allocated for maintenance.

Ekurhuleni’s Crime Crisis @KASIBCNEWS

Today, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng East officially launched a petition to urge parliamentary intervention into Ekurhuleni’s crime crisis. The petition was made public outside the Primrose Police station, which has the highest murder rate in the metro with a horrific 127 murders per 100 000 residents.

Primrose itself holds an average murder rate three times the average murder rate in Ekurhuleni. With a population of 87 743 residents, this community is serviced by a mere 94 Police Officers and 10 support staff. This station is woefully under resourced. It should come as no surprise that 1638 murders were committed in the City last year.

To put it into perspective, that is one police officer for every 933 residents.

Former Police Minister, Bheki Cele, stated that the United Nations recommends a police-to-population ratio of one officer for every 220 people. He noted that South Africa's ratio was approximately one officer for every 383 citizens. He could not be further from the truth with regards to the Primrose Police station.

If the ratio of 220 residents for one police officer were a reality, the Primrose police station would have 399 police officers.

It is no wonder the residents of Primrose have been left defenceless against murderers with a staff shortfall of 76%.

As horrifying as the murder rate is in Primrose, the issue is similarly bleak across the metro:

Primrose – 127

Germiston – 120

Crystal Park – 86

Reiger Park - 83

Putfontein – 65

Zonkiziswe – 62

Tembisa South – 61

Tokoza - 59

Dawn Park 57

Actonville – 56

The DA’s petition will be taken to Parliament requesting that the Portfolio Committee on Police investigate the horrendous murder rate and the chronic lack of police officers and vehicles in the City.

Soweto Integrated Development Plan ( IDP ) @KASIBCNEWS

Residents of Soweto gathered at a packed Orlando East Communal Hall on Saturday, 12 April 2025, to share their views on the City’s draft Integrated Development Plan (IDP). The session formed part of the City’s ongoing public participation efforts to engage communities directly in shaping local development priorities.

The day began with visits to stalls hosted by various City entities. These stalls offered residents insights into service delivery initiatives and provided a platform for face-to-face engagements with City officials. Service-related queries were addressed by experts from relevant departments and municipal entities.

The Speaker of Council, Cllr Nobuhle Mthembu, in her opening remarks stressed the importance of public participation in refining the draft IDP, Budget, and proposed tariffs, emphasising that the process empowers communities to influence decisions that affect their lives.

Acting Executive Mayor Cllr Margaret Arnolds presented the draft IDP, highlighting key priorities for Region D. These include infrastructure upgrades in water, sewer, and stormwater systems; public environment improvements; investment in early childhood development facilities; and the establishment of centres to combat gender-based violence.

“This is your plan. Without you, we cannot do anything,” said Cllr Arnolds. “Now is the time to reframe the Joburg story—from what’s broken to what’s becoming. Yes, we face real challenges, but so is our power to fix them—from restoring primary infrastructure to investing in strategic capital projects that will transform high-impact precincts and elevate our inner cities to world-class CBDs.”

She also provided an update on progress made in ongoing capital projects. The road rehabilitation and stormwater infrastructure upgrade in Elias Motsoaledi (Ward 24) is 100% complete, while the construction of social housing in Nancefield (Ward 25) is 89% complete.

Following the presentation, residents engaged in a robust dialogue with City leadership, voicing a wide range of concerns. These included inadequate stormwater drainage, crime, insufficient high mast lighting, limited access to health facilities, poor maintenance of public spaces, challenges with the Extended Social Package (ESP), youth unemployment, and human settlements issues.

Themba Ndlovu from Ward 26 expressed concern about the allocation of RDP houses, stating that some are occupied by foreigners while South Africans remain on the waiting list. Gogo Maria raised a concern about access to Expanded Social Package services, noting that many elderly residents don’t have smartphones and are unable to use digital platforms. A youth leader highlighted the lack of long-term job opportunities for young people, he also asked how local youth would benefit from the upcoming G20 Summit.

In response, the City leadership acknowledged the challenges raised and committed to addressing residents’ concerns as part of the IDP refinement process.

Cllr Arnolds also made a call for civic responsibility, urging residents to pay for municipal services to support sustainable service delivery. “Please make sure you play your part and pay your rates and taxes so that the City can have enough revenue to roll out capital projects in your community.”

MAKE KASI GREAT