Dear Fellow South African @KASIBCNEWS

By President Cyril Ramaphosa

We are nearing the end of another year, marked by both triumphs and struggles.  

We celebrated thirty years since the birth of our democratic nation. We reflected on the considerable progress we have made in building a constitutional order anchored on freedom, equality and human rights for all.  

We held our seventh successful, free and fair general elections since 1994. It was a landmark poll, with an unprecedented 70 political parties contesting. The election was a credit to the Independent Electoral Commission, which acquitted itself with distinction, the political parties who campaigned in a spirit of respect and tolerance, and to all South Africans who exercised their right to vote.  

Our democracy has evolved and matured. We have a Government of National Unity comprised of 10 political parties from across the political spectrum. They have agreed on three strategic priorities for this administration.

The first strategic priority is to grow our economy and create jobs.

The structural reforms initiated under the sixth administration are continuing to create conditions for our economy to grow and to create jobs.

The country has had over 250 days with no loadshedding. This is due to a combination of increased maintenance and generation recovery by Eskom, the addition of more capacity to the grid including from renewables, and the large-scale uptake of solar and battery energy solutions by households and businesses. The work of the National Energy Crisis Committee continues. It is working to get more power onto the grid, to expand our electricity infrastructure, to diversify the market for the benefit of consumers, and to lay the groundwork for an energy-secure future.

There has been a significant recovery of commuter rail since theft and vandalism during the Covid pandemic nearly destroyed the network. Stations have been refurbished, new state-of-the-art trains are on the tracks, and 31 out of 40 key passenger corridors are now operational. There were 40 million commuter rail passengers in the last financial year, up from 15 million passengers the previous year.

We are making progress in the recovery of freight rail and dealing with longstanding operational challenges in our ports. We are seeing improvements at the container terminals in Durban and Cape Town, as well as with infrastructure upgrades.

While unemployment levels remain extremely high, more South Africans are finding jobs.

The second strategic priority of this administration is to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living.

Consumer inflation is at a four-year low, making essential goods like fuel and most food staples more affordable. Over the past twelve months, fuel prices have come down.

Around 60% of the national budget is dedicated towards the ‘social wage’. These are the measures that reduce poverty and directly improve people’s lives. In addition to the provision of grants to vulnerable groups and unemployed people, this social wage includes subsidised housing, free basic services, no-fee schools and school nutrition. Government has been able to sustain these measures even as public finances are under severe pressure.

The third strategic priority of this administration is to strengthen the capacity of the state to deliver on its mandate.

Our efforts to improve the capacity and capability of the state to deliver on basic services continue.  

We have experienced moments of great national pride this year. Our sportsmen and women did us proud, including at the Olympics and Paralympics. Our nation’s artists hoisted our flag high on the global stage, proving themselves to be among our most valuable exports.

The momentum we have achieved this year was marred by tragedy. The deaths of a number children from eating contaminated foodstuffs was a great sorrow and caused deep concern. We have put a number of stringent measures in place to prevent such tragedies.

While we are making progress, we have a long way to go. The pace of economic growth is still too slow and not enough jobs are being created. Families still struggle with the high cost of living.

While there has been some improvement in the crime statistics and there have been breakthroughs in tackling crime syndicates, crime and violence is still widespread in many communities.

Disruptions in the supply of electricity and clean water is a major problem in many municipalities. Many local councils are plagued by poor governance, limited capacity and severe financial constraints. This is affecting service delivery to our people. Strengthening local government is our key priority.

These are the challenges we are grappling with. We have identified local government as a major focus in this administration. Through initiatives like the Presidential eThekwini Working Group, we are bringing all stakeholders together to solve local problems

The progress we have made this past year and during the course of the previous administration shows that we can overcome the difficulties our country faces.

As government, business, labour and civil society, we are able to achieve a great deal when work in unison to overcome our common challenges. In the new year, we will embark on a National Dialogue that will draw together all South Africans in crafting a common vision for the country.

As the host of the G20 next year, South Africa will play an important role in addressing the challenges that many countries across the world experience. We will seek common solutions that improve the lives of all our people.

Overcoming poverty and underdevelopment, creating more jobs, and addressing societal ills like gender-based violence requires that we must all play our part, where we can.

On many fronts, this year has been better than the last. We will build on these achievements in 2025.

Wherever you may be this festive season, I wish you well.

With best regards,

Cyril Ramaphosa is President of South Africa.

M@KEK@SiGRE@T©®™

 

Reconciliation Day: Reflecting on the past, building a united future @KASIBCNEWS

By Nomonde Mnukwa

The act of forgiveness and reconciliation has been central to the story of South Africa since 1994. Reconciliation Day came into effect in 1994 and was intended to help build a united and prosperous South Africa. This day and in subsequent years, Reconciliation Month has become synonymous with our drive to nurture and entrench new values in our society.

The annual commemoration of Reconciliation Day allows us to reflect on the many positive strides we have made since 1994, while acknowledging that much work remains. Even now 30 years into democracy the lives of many continue to be shaped by the circumstances of their birth. We cannot accept this reality as a nation, and we must therefore all do more to address the untold damage wrought by apartheid and colonialism.

If we don’t act and find ways to work together our future will continue to be shaped by our ugly past. National Reconciliation Day is therefore of even greater importance today and can serve as a springboard to build a more cohesive and united society.

This year Reconciliation Month is being held under the theme “Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures”. The theme serves as a reminder that reconciliation is not about forgetting or ignoring our painful past. Rather, it is about talking openly about what happened in our past and to learn from it so that we can build a country that works for everyone and not just a few. By learning from the past we can begin to imagine a future where all citizens are valued and have equal opportunities to develop and thrive.

This year’s reconciliation month focuses on collective efforts of government and the people in advancing reconciliation, nation-building, social cohesion, healing and forgiveness. It also takes place three months after we received 35 human remains of South Africans who were buried while in exile in Zimbabwe and Zambia. The next phase of the project will focus on the repatriation of the remains of South Africans buried in Angola.

This initiative is crucial for national healing and reconciliation, allowing families to find closure and honour the memory of those who fought for freedom and justice. Moreover, this project is part of our commitment to honour and restore the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom.

As we commemorate reconciliation month, we also pay tribute to our many freedom fighters and others who sacrificed their lives for us to get freedom and democracy. Their long walk has brought us this far; now it’s time for this generation to stand up and lead.

Young people should work with government in building a South Africa in which all people are free, equal and are included in the economy. Our reconciliation should be linked to transforming our society by broadening the participation of all South Africans in the development of the country.

While progress has been made in our journey of reconciliation over the years, more still needs to be done especially to grow the economy at a higher rate to create more jobs.

We are hopeful that the foundation we have set over the past 30 years will enable us to move faster in improving the lives of people and in helping to heal the divisions of the past. 

Nomonde Mnukwa is the Acting Director-General of the GCIS 

M@KEK@SiGRE@T©®™

 

Festive Season Road Safety 2024 @KASIBCNEWS 

By Dr Ntombi Nala

The end of the year is a special time, characterised by family and festive celebrations that are eagerly anticipated by everyone. During this period, many people travel far and wide to spend their holidays with family and friends.

The festive season is unfortunately also a time when many incidents and accidents occur on the roads as a result of higher than usual traffic volumes that accompany the holiday season.

To prevent incidents and ensure safety is prioritised on our roads, the Department of Transport recently launched its National Safer Festive Season Operations. This 46-day campaign starting from 1 December 2024 to middle January 2025, aims to ensure increased police visibility across the country during the festive period, especially in high-risk zones.

The launch of the road safety campaign coincided with the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDR). WDR acknowledges the millions of individuals killed and injured on the world’s roads as well as officers who died in the line of duty and the scores of family and friends affected by these deaths.

Given this stark reality our safer festive season operations seek to enhance knowledge of road safety and includes various initiatives and actions to reduce road fatalities. These actions will contribute to our goal of halving serious injuries and fatalities by 2030, as per the National Road Safety Strategy 2016 to 2030. Attaining this vision for the nation requires everyone to work together to create a safer road environment for all.

To ensure safer roads during the upcoming festive period, law enforcement operations will be intensified on all major routes led by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the South African Police Service, provincial and municipal traffic authorities. The road safety campaign will be accelerated according to traffic volumes, with higher police presence on the roads ahead of the Christmas and New year weekends. High-risk zones will be given priority and there will be stepped up law enforcement during these peak periods.

This year’s festive road safety operations give attention to the use of cell phones whilst driving and drunk driving. Citizens are urged to drive responsibly and refrain from texting whilst driving, and to use Bluetooth or a hands-free kit if they need to make or receive calls when driving to minimise any distractions on the road.

One of the main hinderances to good driving and safe roads is driving under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating or mind-altering substances. Citizens are also urged to avoid driving or even walking on the road when intoxicated, as it puts their lives as well as the lives of others at risk.

During this festive period, traffic police and law enforcement will work together to tackle drunk driving by adopting a zero-tolerance approach. Citizens are encouraged to play their part by adhering to the rules of the road, which includes ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy, and their driving documents are up to date.

Everyone can also play their part in road safety through simple acts such as wearing a seatbelt, driving within the speed limit, refraining from speeding or overloading vehicles and taking breaks when needed along their journey.

As we prepare for the festive season, let us be vigilant and mindful of each other on our roads so we can all reach our respective destinations safely and enjoy this holiday season.

Dr Ntombifuthi Nala is Acting Chief Director: Research Analysis and Knowledge Services at GCIS

M@KEK@SiGRE@T©®™

PUBLIC SAFETY’S DECISIVE ACTION AGAINST CRIME AND OFFICER ACCOUNTABILITY @KASIBCNEWS

 The MMC for Public Safety Dr, Mgcini Tshwaku is deeply outraged by the reckless criminal acts on the N1 North between the Soweto Highway and Maraisburg Off-ramps and the N1 South between Maraisburg and Rand Show Road Off-ramps. The deliberate placement of rocks on these routes has caused multiple accidents, jeopardizing the lives of innocent motorists. This is an attack on the safety and dignity of our residents. 

We have directed the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) act to decisively root out these criminal elements. Joint operations are underway across our freeways and highways, ensuring no road user is vulnerable. During this festive season, we prioritize the safety of every citizen and visitor traveling through Johannesburg.  

Equally troubling are reports alleging that JMPD officers failed to assist a motorist who was nearly mugged in the same area. Let it  be clear: The department of Public Safety  will not tolerate negligence or dereliction of duty by those entrusted to serve and protect.

The Internal Affairs Unit has launched a full investigation to ensure that any officer found guilty of misconduct is held accountable. 

We encourage the community to play a role in ensuring safety by reporting emergencies or suspicious activities by contacting 082 060 0057 or 011 375 5911 immediately. As a department, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents. 

We will continue to lead with decisive action, ensuring that Johannesburg remains a city where justice and accountability prevail.  

NATSJOINTS Illegal Miners in Stilfontein @KASIBCNEWS

NATSJOINTS Clarifying the Situation of Illegal Miners in Stilfontein

Recent developments have seen a number of illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas, 

voluntarily emerging from the disused mine shafts in Stilfontein. This trend indicates that these individuals have the capability to exit the underground tunnels independently. Their delayed emergence appears to be a tactic to evade arrest by law enforcement agencies.

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Addressing Misinformation

Contrary to claims that food underground ran out months ago, evidence suggests that the miners have had access to supplies until recently. 

Assertions that aid sent down is shared equally among miners are unverified. Government has not sanctioned any official aid deliveries to individuals engaged in illegal activities. 

Reports indicate that any supplies reaching the miners are controlled by underground syndicates, often leading to unequal distribution and exploitation.

The notion that miners remain trapped solely due to police actions is misleading. SAPS has implemented measures to secure the area and prevent further illegal activities, but designated exit points have been established to allow miners to surface safely and face due legal processes. The miners possess the means to exit independently, as demonstrated by those who have surfaced in recent days. Government's stance is to uphold the rule of law; thus, while immediate aid is not provided to facilitate illegal activities, measures are in place to ensure the safety and humane treatment of individuals who choose to come above ground.

Government acknowledges the presence of various narratives surrounding this issue. It is important to rely on verified information from official channels. SAPS and other government bodies are committed to transparency and will continue to provide accurate updates on the situation.

Government's Commitment

The South African Government remains steadfast in its efforts to address illegal mining 

activities, which pose significant risks to both the individuals involved and the broader 

community. Operations such as "Vala Umgodi" ("Close the Pits") are ongoing to rehabilitate abandoned mines and prevent further unlawful exploitation. Government is also working to tackle the underlying socio-economic issues that contribute to illegal mining, including unemployment and lack of economic opportunities.

We cannot allow a situation where the Government is held hostage. All Court directives have been complied with thus far, including the allowed food supply on a daily basis. SAPS has previously indicated that it is working closely with all stakeholders involved in trying to get those illegal miners extracted from underground.

The Stilfontein rescue operation that is being undertaken is not as easy as it seems; it is quite complex, with the depth of the shaft playing a major role in how this operation is carried out. 

Unlike the Sabie operation, in which the shaft is 150 meters deep, the Stilfontein shaft is 2 kilometers deep to where these illegal miners allegedly are, making it a very difficult and highrisk operation to undertake. 

The rescue team has recommended that the necessary resources and expertise must be   acquired. The practicality and risks involved are also being taken into account. The liability involved is also a major factor. Police are not experts and can therefore not lead this rescue operation.

At this stage, the mine must acquire services to conduct the rescue operation, in which costs are involved. We are in possession of a quotation that indicates that there must also be a 100% upfront payment. It should be agreed upon that the Government must approach this process with due diligence and the utmost care, taking into consideration the applicable supply chain management processes involved. These processes must be above board in line with relevant prescripts.

We urge all individuals involved in these activities to surface voluntarily and engage with law enforcement to ensure their safety and well-being. Government is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law in all its operations. 

EFF ON THE ONGOING PROTEST AND VIOLENCE IN MOZAMBIQUE @KASIBCNEWS

 

EFF ON THE ONGOING PROTEST AND VIOLENCE IN MOZAMBIQUE @KASIBCNEWS 

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the concerning and destructive protest and violence in Mozambique following the October elections and the official proclamation by the Constitutional Council affirming the results. The election outcomes, widely criticised as fraudulent, have ignited widespread unrest, leading to the deaths of more than 20 people, including two police officers, with over 390 injured and 800 detained. 

This crisis is a direct result of a liberation movement, now led by corrupt and selfserving individuals, clinging to power by undermining democratic institutions and manipulating elections. 

The Mozambican government has failed to address the basic needs of its people, as evidenced by declining education, health, and economic growth. This mismanagement has fuelled public outrage, which the state is repressing with excessive force. 

The EFF calls for the Mozambican government and security forces to exercise maximum restraint and a high level of discipline in dealing with the protests. Launching tear gas from helicopters, restricting internet access to silence dissent, and using live ammunition against unarmed citizens is a gross violation of human rights. Such actions only serve to escalate tensions and push Mozambique toward a devastating civil war. 

We strongly condemn these repressive tactics and remind FRELIMO leaders of the consequences faced by other oppressive regimes around the world. History has shown that when repressive governments are overthrown, their leaders often face severe reprisals for atrocities committed against their own people. 

We further call on the people of Mozambique to refrain from vandalising critical infrastructure and assets. These resources will be essential for rebuilding the nation after their legitimate demands for democracy and justice are realised. We urge protestors to remain united, disciplined, and peaceful to ensure their struggle is effective and does not harm their future. 

The EFF reiterates its call for the South African government to convene the ambassador of Mozambique to record its strongest condemnation of the killings, arrests, and repression of protestors. While the EFF acknowledges the South African government’s statement noting the ongoing violence and urging dialogue, we emphasise that more decisive action is required. It is not enough to merely call for calm and restraint. 

We insist that the South African government, in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU), take urgent and concrete steps to facilitate a sustainable resolution to the crisis. The ongoing failure to take decisive and direct action has emboldened repressive elements within the Mozambican state, leaving citizens vulnerable to violent crackdowns. South Africa’s readiness to assist Mozambique must translate into tangible efforts to hold the Mozambican government accountable while working toward an inclusive, long-term solution that priorities the democratic will of the people. Mozambique stands at the precipice of a civil war that could be more devastating than the apartheid-sponsored destabilisation of the 1980s, which claimed the lives of many, including President Samora Machel. 

The EFF warns that such a conflict would have dire consequences for the region, threatening the stability of SADC and undermining decades of progress. There is a sweeping change in the SADC region politically, which has seen and will continue to see the rapid decline and ultimate extinction of former liberation movements. The solidarity amongst these former liberation movements at a time when there is clear manipulation of electoral process, is testament to an alliance of regressive forces and must be recognized as an axis of evil which will be detrimental to the political future of the region. The former liberation movements have reached a point of desperation, and have become either collaborators or oppressors as they refuse to accept that they have lost the popular support of the people. 

The EFF emphasises that any intervention must prioritise sustainable and lasting solutions, rooted in democratic processes and the will of the Mozambican people. Imposing external solutions risks alienating the population and exacerbating the crisis . The EFF calls on all stakeholders to act decisively and collectively. SADC and the AU must demonstrate that they are capable of preventing a descent into chaos and ensuring that the democratic aspirations of the Mozambican people are upheld. 

We stand in solidarity with the people of Mozambique and reiterate our support for their legitimate demands for justice, democracy, and good governance. It is important that regional leaders work toward restoring peace and stability in Mozambique and preventing further regression and backwardness. Mozambique and the SADC region cannot afford the consequences of inaction. 

ANCWL ON TEENAGE PREGNANCY @KASIBCNEWS 

The African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) expresses profound concern over the rising rate of teenage pregnancy in our communities. This alarming trend not only jeopardizes the health and future prospects of our young girls but also underscores the critical issues surrounding broken homes, inadequate parenting structures, and the overall social fabric of our society. 

Teenage pregnancy is a multifaceted issue rooted in a variety of societal challenges, including poverty, lack of access to education, and limited awareness regarding sexual and reproductive health. Young women who become pregnant during their teenage years often face significant challenges that can affect their emotional, physical, and mental well-being. 

The demands of motherhood at such a young age can lead to a cascade of difficulties, including the interruption of their education and limited employment opportunities. This, in turn, perpetuates a cycle of poverty that can impact future generations. Many of these young mothers are raising children in broken homes or unstable environments, leading to potential neglect and emotional instability for both the parents and the children involved. The effects of familial disintegration can be profound, contributing to feelings of isolation and despair among young pregnant women. This situation can further exacerbate the challenges of parenting, as they often lack the necessary support systems that promote healthy child development. 

When discussing teenage pregnancy, it is imperative to reflect on the role of parents and guardians in guiding their children through the tumultuous teenage years. Parents are often the first line of support for young people, and their involvement is crucial in fostering an open dialogue about sexual health and relationships. By providing a nurturing and communicative environment, parents can equip their children with the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. Unfortunately, for some teenagers, parental support may be lacking due to various issues, including socio-economic pressures, mental health challenges, or generational patterns of neglect. As such, it is vital that we encourage parents to take an active role in their children’s lives, engage with them in discussions about sexual health, and model positive relationships. 

By normalizing conversations about sexuality and healthy relationships, we can empower our youth to recognize their worth and make choices that prioritize their health and well-being. Moreover, we must acknowledge that teenage girls face significant limitations regarding their rights and opportunities. 

They often lack access to essential resources, including education, healthcare, and social support, which are crucial for their development and well-being. These limitations impede their ability to make informed choices, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and unplanned pregnancies. To effectively combat this issue, the ANCWL calls for a united effort from all sister departments, including the Department of Basic Education, the Department of Social Development, the Department of Health, and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. Each department has a vital role to play in building a comprehensive support network for our youth, including:

1. Department of Basic Education: The newly enacted BELA Act is effectively mitigating on the future prospects of young girls who fell pregnant during their school years and ensures this predicament does not determine their social and economic development, This department must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive sexual education programs in schools. Such programs should not only educate young people about the biological aspects of reproduction but also address the emotional and social implications of sexual activity. It is vital that we provide our youth with the information they need to make informed decisions, as well as promote healthy relationships. 

2. Department of Social Development: The department should extend its support services for pregnant teenagers and young mothers. This includes providing access to counseling services, parenting classes, and economic empowerment initiatives. Importantly, social workers should be trained to understand the unique challenges facing teenage mothers and equipped to provide targeted interventions that support family stability and child development. 

3. Department of Health: The health department must ensure that all teenagers have access to comprehensive reproductive health services. This includes providing confidential advice, contraceptive options, and prenatal care. Public health campaigns should also focus on educating young people about their reproductive choices, emphasizing the importance of consent and personal agency. 

4. Department of Justice and Constitutional Development: It is crucial for this department to strengthen legal measures against statutory rape and ensure that law enforcement agencies are equipped to act decisively in cases where young girls are exploited and abused. This includes providing training for law enforcement on the sensitive nature of these cases and ensuring there are proper mechanisms in place for reporting and supporting victims. Protecting our youth from exploitation must be a top priority, and offenders must be held accountable for their actions. 

The ANCWL calls on all sectors of society, including inter-governmental departments, the progressive student movement, teachers’ association and the private sector, to take urgent and collective action to address the epidemic of teenage pregnancy. We need to work together to cultivate an environment where young women are empowered to make choices that enhance their dignity, health, and future prospects. 

By reinforcing our support systems, enhancing education and awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can break the cycle of disadvantage and build a brighter, healthier future for all our youth. Together, we can transform our society and ensure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.