Stage 2 load shedding implemented continuously until further notice

Eskom said that stage 2 load shedding will be in effect until further notice.

The ailing parastatal said this is due to a breakdown of six generating units at five power stations at Duvha, Grootvlei, Hendrina, Majuba and Arnot Power Station.

This week the country was placed on stage 1 and 2 of the planned power cuts as the utility continues to struggle to keep the lights on.

Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha says there is need to conserve emergency generation reserves, as well as the delay in returning to service numerous generating units.

‘’The delay in returning to service two generating units at Camden and one unit each at Arnot and Duvha power stations contributed to the capacity constraints. A generating unit each at Kriel and Matla power stations were returned to service during this period.’’

Mantshantsha says South Africans should brace themselves for more power cuts

‘’As previously communicated, due to the depletion of the budget to acquire diesel for the Open Cycle Gas Turbines, Eskom has been forced to strictly conserve the fuel for the direst of emergencies.’’

‘’The imminent refuelling and maintenance outage, as well as the long-term operation project of Unit 1 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, together with the October chimney failure that has forced three generation units offline at Kusile Power Station, will further reduce available generation capacity and significantly increase the occurrence of loadshedding during the next 6 -12 months,’’ said Eskom spokesperson Sikonathi Mantshantsha.

 

PICTURE - Mitchum George: Load shedding at Bush Radio

Done By: Mitchum George

More than 100 000 WC learners in Grade 1 and 8 placed for the 2023 school year, since November.

The Western Cape Education Department said more than 100 000 learners in Grade 1 and 8 have been placed for the 2023 school year in the province.

The department said they received 117 270 applications for learners for the two grades, of which 22 113 were received late.

‘’As of 3 November 2022, we have placed 100 302, or 89.1%, of the Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners for the 2023 school year, and are in the process of placing 12 786, or 10.9%, of the Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners for the 2023 school year,’’ said MEC David Maynier.

‘’However, this does not take into account the extremely late applications that we expect to receive from the end of this year onwards. Last year, we received over 7 900 extremely late applications for the 2022 school year, with most of those arriving after January 2022,’’ he added.

Maynier said they are aiming to build many more schools and classrooms than previously, to accommodate these learners. Addition to this 1 143 educators will be appointed in the new year.

‘’This means that a sufficient number of teaching posts will be allocated to schools in preparation for the completion of additional classrooms, so they will be ready to go when learners arrive,’’ said Education MEC, David Maynier.

The MEC appealed to parents to not weait for the last minute to apply for the 2023 school academic year

‘’This is where parents can really help us: if you have not yet applied for your child for 2023, please do so immediately at your district office. Do not wait until January next year, as this will make it much harder for us to place you child timeously.’’

‘’We would like to thank those parents who have already applied for their patience as we finalise placement of their children, and appeal to them to ensure that they have supplied accurate and current contact details to us. We are unfortunately still struggling to reach some parents when we have a place to offer for their child,’’ added Maynier.

The MEC said officials are still placing learners.

‘’We understand that you will be anxious to have a place confirmed, and our officials are working around the clock to do so. Your children are, and will remain, the number 1 priority for our department. We will leave no stone unturned in our effort to place every learner,’’ said Education MEC, David Maynier.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Suspect arrested at hideout of police murder for police constable in Grassy Park

A 42-year-old man was arrested on Thursday evening, for the murder of a Grassy Park constable. The suspect shot and killed the 26-year-old constable on Thursday afternoon.

‘’The deceased member and his partner reacted on information of an armed suspect in Blackbird Avenue in Grassy Park and during an altercation with the suspect, the member sustained a fatal gunshot wound to his chest, while his partner escaped the incident unharmed,’’ said Colonel Andrè Traut.

The SAPS spokesperson said officers made the arrest at the suspects hideout in Ravensmead and that the 9mm pistol he stole during the altercation with the SAPS members was found in his possession and confiscated.

The HAWKS has taken over the investigation. Meanwhile, the suspect will make his first appearance at the Wynberg Magistrates Court on Monday.

The Western Cape’s Police Commissioner, Lt. Gen. Thembisile Patekile is expected to visit the home of the slain Grassy Park constable in Lavender Hill on Friday morning.

The Western Cape’s Police Oversight & Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen, has welcomed the arrest.

‘’Everyday dedicated men and women in blue risk their lives to keep us safe. The justice system must run its course and the suspect must face the full might of the law. My hope is that the judge must make an example of this ruthless killer as he does not deserve to live amongst us.’’

Done By: Mitchum George

Man sought in connection with police murder in Samora Machel

A manhunt is underway for a suspect in connection with the killing of Sergeant Sithembiso Mnatwana

Mihle Mngambi also known as Nzaba is being sought by the Hawks after he shot the police officer on Hintsa Kaphalo Street, Samora Machel on 8 September 2022. 

Hawks’ spokesperson, Zinzi Hani said officers found that the deceased still had his uniform on, but was wearing a black and white top over his uniform.

‘’On arrival the members found an African male lying on his stomach with bullet wounds on his head and his upper body. On further investigation, the members found that the deceased was a member of the police and that he still had his uniform on, but was wearing a  black and white top over his uniform. The deceased later identified as Sergeant Sithembiso Mnatwana stationed at Cape Town Central Vispol. The member came from duty and did not have any firearm with him when he was killed.’’

Anyone with information of his whereabouts is requested to contact Sergeant Christopher Mitchell Botha on 082 850 9754.

 

PICTURED - Hawks: Mihle Mngambi also known as Nzaba

Done By: Mitchum George

WCED aims to build additional classrooms to accommodate learners for 2023 schoool year

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is on a mission to build 842 additional classrooms to accommodate at least 26 000 learners in the province.

This programme, says the WCED, is being done at an unprecedented rate. MEC David Maynier said the school infrastructure programme has been made possible due to an R830 million increase in the infrastructure budget in 2022/23 financial year. The MEC said his department has already completed 164 classrooms planned for next year, and a further 510 are scheduled for completion by January 2023, with the final 168 by March 2023.

This unprecedented school build includes:

·        3 brick and mortar new and replacement schools = 46 additional classrooms (Moorreesburg High School; Chatsworth Primary School; and Perivale Primary School)

·        5 new mobile schools = 50 additional classrooms (Klapmuts – high school; Klapmuts – primary school; Lwandle – high school; Tafelsig – high school; and Mitchell’s Plain – high school)

·        New classroom builds = 645 additional classrooms

·        7 Rapid School Build projects = 101 additional classrooms (Delft; Atlantis; Rivergate; Lwandle; Wallacedene; Hout Bay; Century City)

 

The Rapid School Build programme is a new initiative by the WCED that brings together various stakeholders with the aim of developing and building 7 schools within six months to accommodate up to 3 200 learners.

Maynier however said the programme does come with significant risks, such as social unrest, extortion demands and strikes which lead to delays in building completion.

‘’The WCED has ensured that all the necessary employment criteria, municipal requirements, and procurement processes will be followed, but all too often we see unnecessary and damaging protest action from individuals or groups seeking job opportunities and construction contracts or driving personal agendas. This can lead to delays in project completion dates which ultimately has an impact on the learner,’’ said Maynier.

The MEC also raised concerns over the availability and delivery of building materials.

‘’We are reliant on all materials required for each classroom build to be available for delivery. Any transport delays, or shortages of certain materials could impact each build.’’

‘’We must all work together to prioritise the delivery of school infrastructure for our children, so that we have plenty of space ready for new learners arriving for the 2023 school year,’’ he added.

 

PICTURE: WCED

Done By: Mitchum George

Education MEC urges Classof2022 to be responsible during Matric rages

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has urge candidates of the 2022 NSC exams to celebrate safely and responsibly, as Matric rage events in Plettenberg Bay and Ballito kicks off this weekend. Matric rage parties was halted for the past two years due to South Africa being under COVID-19 lockdown.

Majority of candidates will write their final paper on Friday - Afrikaans Paper 3, with Music, South African Sign language, Dramatic Arts and Agricultural Technology being written on Monday & Tuesday.

‘’While the level of risk in terms of the pandemic is now lower, this does not mean that matrics should let their guard down completely. It is understandable that the Class of 2022 would like to let their hair down and celebrate the end of a difficult few years at school, but we urge them to do so responsibly and in moderation, especially in terms of alcohol consumption,’’ said Education MEC, David Maynier.

 

The MEC shared the following tips for those attending these events:

·        Familiarise themselves with the safety measures at the event itself, and the relevant local emergency phone numbers;

·        Keep a close eye on their valuables at all times;

·        Similarly keep a close eye on their beverages at all times, and not leave them unattended;

·        Report anything suspicious to SAPS or the event organisers immediately;

·        Avoid drinking and driving; and

·        Set up a buddy system for their own safely, as well as keep in regular contact with their parents.

‘’We do not want to have our candidates’ end-of-year holidays spoiled by becoming targets of crime or being involved in a serious accident. We appeal to parents to make sure that their children understand the risks associated with large social events, and impress upon them the need to behave responsibly so that everyone can enjoy themselves in a safe and respectful manner,’’ added Maynier.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

South Africa's recent unemployment rate has dropped

South Africa's recent unemployment rate has dropped by a percentage point from 33.9% in the third quarter to 32.9% in the latest. Statistics South Africa said that while the recent unemployment rate showed signs of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, the country remained among those with the highest unemployment rate in the world.

This change is after the unemployment rate hit a record high of 35.3% in the fourth quarter of 2021.

According to Dihlolelo Phoshoko, Director of Quarterly Labour Force Survey results shows that 204 000 jobs were gained between the second and third quarter of 2022.

The drop in unemployment is despite the Country currently experiencing the most severe rounds of power cuts in decades. Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said that, despite severe power cuts between July and September, these are the industries that account for the bulk of the job gains in the third quarter this year.

However, 80,000 jobs were lost in finance, 36 000 jobs in private households i.e garden workers, while 1,000 were also lost in agrigulture and mining. The recent jobs data shows a steady recovery in employment, with over 800,000 more jobs recorded this year.

DA Western Cape Spokesperson on Finance, Economic Opportunities and Tourism Cayla Murray, MPP, stated that once again, the province has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 24.5%, which is 8.4% less than the national rate. The province recorded a further 3% decline in unemployment during this period.

The industries in the Western Cape which saw the biggest increases in employment included:

• Manufacturing with over 44 000 jobs created;

• Construction with over 35 000 jobs created

• Transport with over 32 000 jobs created; and

• Agriculture with over 16 000 jobs created.

Despite the decrease in umeployment in the country, 7.7 million active job seekers remain without work, while 3.5 million are classified as discouraged job seekers and 5.9 million that are long-term unemployed.

Phoshoko said that Stats SA also stated that youth aged 15-24 and 25-34 recorded the highest unemployment rates in the three months between July and September.

by Everngelista Muza

World AIDS Day 2022

World AIDS Day commemorated on 1 December is the annual day used since it was founded in 1988 to promote information regarding the decease among the locals. It is a chance for people all over the world to come together in the battle against HIV, to support those who are living with HIV, and to remember those who have passed away from an AIDS-related illness. Globally, an estimated 38.4 million people are living with HIV. In 2021, an estimated 1.5 million people acquired HIV and around 650 000 people died from AIDS-related causes.

This year’s theme for World AIDS Day is Equalize. According to the world health Organisation, as HIV continues to affect millions of people worldwide, the global HIV response is in danger. There has been a slowdown in progress toward HIV goals over the last few years, and resources have shrunk, putting millions of lives at risk.

UNICEF is warning that progress in HIV prevention and treatment for children, adolescents and pregnant women has slowed down over the past three years. In 2021, around 110,000 children and adolescents (0-19 years) died from AIDs-related causes.

HIV is a virus that targets a person’s immune system and gradually prevents it from being able to protect your body from infections. HIV is reportedly transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing of infected needles or other sharp instruments, the transmission of infected blood, and from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

HIV has become a manageable chronic health condition with effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, despite no cure. WHO stated that people still need to be reminded if people with HIV are not treated they start developing signs of AIDS that can lead to an early death (3 years).

During the covid 19 lockdown HIV prevention, testing and treatment all took a blow due as the coronavirus pandemic was taken as a priority. This resulted in a halt to all progress against the HIV pandemic, resources have shrunk and millions of lives are at risk as a result.

To curb the increase is HIV persons, the Western Cape hosted a provincial symposium involving key stakeholders to find solutions related to HIV from district healthcare, science, civil society, youth and community, and funding as the different stakeholders work towards ending the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030

Western Cape’s Health & Wellness MEC, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, encouraged citizens to use condoms to prevent transmission by reducing the risk of exposure to HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI) during sex.  

Western Cape Spokesperson on Health in the Western Cape Legislature,  Wendy Kaizer-Philander, said that between the financial years of 2017/18 and 2021/22: While HIV positive tests fell from 47 397 to 23 301, fewer tests have been taken;

Persons starting ART’s fell from 45 491 to 24 230, with those remaining on ARTs falling from 3 571 to 2 454; and

Total condoms distributed decreased from 117 018 900 to 65 155 252.

The city of Cape town stated that between April and October this year, 13 478 patients have had assisted HIV self-screening at City Health facilities, returning a positivity rate of 2,3%.

The City's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia Van der Ross said HIV self-screening is now available at 38 City Health facilities, with nearly 15 000 people already opting for the assisted self-screening.; 1^st December is the day used every year since it was founded in 1988 to promote information regarding the decease among the locals. It is a chance for people all over the world to come together in the battle against HIV, to support those who are living with HIV, and to remember those who have passed away from an AIDS-related illness. Globally, an estimated 38.4 million people are living with HIV. In 2021, an estimated 1.5 million people acquired HIV and around 650 000 people died from AIDS-related causes.

This year’s theme for World AIDS Day is Equalize. According to the world health Organisation, as HIV continues to affect millions of people worldwide, the global HIV response is in danger. There has been a slowdown in progress toward HIV goals over the last few years, and resources have shrunk, putting millions of lives at risk.

UNICEF is warning that progress in HIV prevention and treatment for children, adolescents and pregnant women has slowed down over the past three years. In 2021, around 110,000 children and adolescents (0-19 years) died from AIDs-related causes.

HIV is a virus that targets a person’s immune system and gradually prevents it from being able to protect your body from infections. HIV is reportedly transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing of infected needles or other sharp instruments, the transmission of infected blood, and from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

HIV has become a manageable chronic health condition with effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, despite no cure. WHO stated that people still need to be reminded if people with HIV are not treated they start developing signs of AIDS that can lead to an early death (3 years).

During the covid 19 lockdown HIV prevention, testing and treatment all took a blow due as the coronavirus pandemic was taken as a priority. This resulted in a halt to all progress against the HIV pandemic, resources have shrunk and millions of lives are at risk as a result.

To curb the increase is HIV persons, the Western Cape hosted a provincial symposium involving key stakeholders to find solutions related to HIV from district healthcare, science, civil society, youth and community, and funding as the different stakeholders work towards ending the AIDS epidemic as a public health threat by 2030

Western Cape’s Health & Wellness MEC, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, encouraged citizens to use condoms to prevent transmission by reducing the risk of exposure to HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI) during sex.  

Western Cape Spokesperson on Health in the Western Cape Legislature,  Wendy Kaizer-Philander, said that between the financial years of 2017/18 and 2021/22: While HIV positive tests fell from 47 397 to 23 301, fewer tests have been taken;

Persons starting ART’s fell from 45 491 to 24 230, with those remaining on ARTs falling from 3 571 to 2 454; and

Total condoms distributed decreased from 117 018 900 to 65 155 252.

The city of Cape town stated that between April and October this year, 13 478 patients have had assisted HIV self-screening at City Health facilities, returning a positivity rate of 2,3%.

The City's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia Van der Ross said HIV self-screening is now available at 38 City Health facilities, with nearly 15 000 people already opting for the assisted self-screening.

PICTURE: UNAIDS

by Everngelista Muza

Mitchell's Plain Festival allocated funding is not enough, says City council members

The KykNet & Kie Mitchell’s Plain Festival is Cape Town’s biggest community festival attracting more than 40 000 people over a span of 3days. The festival features more than 60 local artists, DJ’s, entertainers, over 150 local SMME’s vendors, military display, amusement parks, and free medical tests

The festival is a major event on the Cape Flats that draws together businesses, SMME’s youth, community organisations, government departments, media, consumers and residents of Mitchell’s plain & Khayelitsha annually to celebrate the Cape Flats Diversity.

The first event was hosted in 2009 and the festival, according to the City of Cape Town, has grown by an average of 20% on an annual basis.

Recently, the City of Cape Town’s council has approved a 3-year- sponsorship agreement with the cycle of Life for KykNet & kie Mitchell’s plain Festival until the 2024-2025 financial years.

The council approved that an amount of R700 000 be disbursed for this year’s event from the City’s event budget, R735 000 for next year’s event, and R771 750 in the 2024/25 financial year

Cape Coloured Congress leader Fadiel Adams said the proposed funding was what he deems a pittance and the amount must be doubled. According to Adams, the City spent millions on motorsport, which he said was a white-dominated event for the elite and the privileged.

“The festival is our reminder of what our locals can do. The DA, true to its roots, undervalues all that coloured people can achieve. Events in communities of colour will forever receive small change from a DA that exists to pander to a minority. We agree to the funding in principle, but we cannot agree with the amount being contributed.”

EFF ward councillor Patricia Booi said although the party supported the festival, the City needed to invest more money into these festivals and events of its kind in other poor communities.

‘’These festivals not only created opportunities for the unemployed and local traders, they inspired the youth as they looked forward to showcasing their talent as an alternative to drug use and gangsterism.’’

ANC ward councillor Banele Majingo said the party supported the budget, however he said the money allocated needs to be spent in a better way

Elton jansen who is the Ward 43 Councillor and Sub-Council 17 Chairperson says because of the COVID-19 lockdown, M/Plain was deprieved of attending events and that he is elated that the M/Plain Festival is back

The M/Plain Festival this year takes place between the 2^nd and 4^th of December

 

PICTURE: Mitchell's Plain Festival

Compiled by: Mitchum George

18 yr old arrested following a Stabbing Incident

An 18-year-old Cape Town pupil has been arrested after three pupils were stabbed during an argument outside a Claremont school.

The three pupils were stabbed in Imam Haron Road on Wednesday afternoon,

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg says SAPS are investigating the matter.

"An assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm case was registered for investigation,"

Western Cape Education Department (WCED) spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said the incident happened between pupils of the Batavia School of Skills at a bus stop outside the school.

The three learners were sent to hospital. Two were discharged [on Wednesday] afternoon and one remained in hospital overnight. His condition is stable," Hammond added.

The alleged perpetrator was taken into custody. He is expected to appear in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court once he has been charged,

The WCED is providing counselling to the school community

 

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

  

3 Children killed in a Fire in Khayelitsha

A Fire that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday Morning at Endlovini informal Settlement in Khayelitsha has claimed the lives of 3 children,2 Boys and a Girl who sustained fatal burn wounds

The City’s fire and rescue spokesperson Jermaine Carelse stated that emergency crews from four nearby fire stations responded to the scene where a structure in the Endlovini informal settlement was destroyed

Crews from Lansdowne, Mfuleni, Khayelitsha and Strand responded to the scene which completely shattered the structure and left approximately 14 persons displaced.

The cause of the Fire is not yet known

Pic supplied by Pixaby

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

 

Anti-Gang Unit probes triple murder in Bishop Lavis

Western Cape’s Anti-Gang Unit are probing the circumstances surrounding a triple murder that occurred in Bishop Lavis, on Tuesday evening.

The police’s Andre Traut said two males aged 46 and 48 and a 25-year-old female were shot and fatally wounded in Bosberg Street.

‘’According to reports an unknown suspect entered the premises and fired several shots at the victims. The victims sustained gunshot wounds to their heads and were declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel,’’ said Colonel Andre Traut.

The police spokesperson said the motive for the murders are unknown and that the suspect fled the scene and is yet to be arrested.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the My SAPS App. Callers may remain anonymous.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Duo sentenced for murder of Gift of the Givers volunteer

Two men have been sentenced to 25 years imprisonment for the murder of the Gift of the Givers volunteer, Amieroodeen Noordien. Noordien, along with three others, were at a tuck shop in Surwood Walk, Hanover Park, on the evening of 19 May 2018, when bulletins rang at them. Twenty-year-old Noordien did not survive.

The Western Cape High Court handed down the sentenced to the duo on Monday, for the hideous crime they committed. 27-year-old Adrian Carelse and 22-year-old Raiden Lekutu were found guilty of murder, attempted murder and the illegal possession of a firearm.

The Western Cape police management welcomed the sentence and commended the investigating officer and the prosecution team for a job well done in securing the sentences.    

 Gift of the Giversn founder, Dr. Imitaz Sooliman, applauded the courts  sentencing

‘’This wonderful news has come too late for Ameerodien's mother, who unfortunately has passed on. Our special thanks goes out to Sergeant de Vries, the late Colonel Charl Kinnear and the anti-gang unit that responded timeously, resulting in the suspects giving themselves up within 72 hours of the killing.’’

Sooliman described Noordien as dedicated.

‘’Ameerodien was a dedicated Gift of the Givers volunteer, who together with other youth, were focused on moving away from the tentacles of criminal gangs to a life of service to those in need, and in the process provide honest earnings (we pay our volunteers in cash and kind) for the wellbeing of their own families.’’

PICTURE - Gift of The Givers: Ameerodien Noordien 

‘’We look forward to justice for the hundreds of other families who have suffered a similar fate like Ameerodien. We as a community and a nation have a critical role to play to mould our children and guide them to the right path being exemplary in our behaviour, and identifying fearlessly those within our communities that act with impunity. The only way to end crime is to ensure that we don't produce criminals within our nation,’’ he added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

WC MEC sends stern warning to drunk drivers; WCG receives blood testing kits

The Western Cape’s Mobility MEC, Daylin Mitchell has sent a stern warning to motorists driving under the influence of alcohol. This comes after Provincial Traffic Services last week arrested 81 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol.

‘’I want to send a stern warning to all drivers who are driving under the influence of alcohol, that the law will take its course and there will be repercussions. Drunk drivers be warned. In the Western Cape we have a zero tolerance policy on drunk driving.’’

‘’If you are going out and consume alcohol, please get a designated driver or get a lift home. There is no excuse for drunk driving. The safety of all which is fundamental for the dignity of the province’s citizens is my top priority,’’ added Mitchell.

The department received blood testing kits on Monday. According to the MEC, the province has enough blood testing kits until April 2023.

‘’The kits received will assist Provincial Traffic Services to successfully continue to conduct drinking and driving operations across the province. The drawing of a blood sample will be for prosecutorial purposes, and we will continue with the same practice over the festive period to arrest motorists who feel they have the liberty to drive drunk and show blatant disregard for any other innocent road user,’’ said Western Cape’s Mobility MEC, Daylin Mitchell.

Mitchell said the stock received does not affect the already shortage of drunk driving testing kits across the country.

Furthermore, the department recorded 26 fatalities on Western Cape’s roads between 21 to 27 November. Of these, 14 were pedestrians, 5 passengers, 4 drivers, 2 motorcyclists, and a cyclist died in the past week.

 

PICTURE: MEC Mitchell at Bush Radio

Done By: Mitchum George

NSRI study finds under-4's are more prevalent to drownings; 81% of males drown more in SA

A study conducted by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) indicates that it is an assumption that drownings occur frequently in the ocean, and an abundance of resources are deployed to prevent these drownings.

The NSRI briefed the media on Monday, ahead of the festive season, to present its study of fatal drownings from 2016 – 2021. The data used for the study were obtained from the South African Police Service.

In recent years, research into fatal drownings has increased, highlighting fatal drownings as a serious public health concern.

Low- and middle-income countries have been referred to as having the highest burden of global drownings. Approximately 90% of the annual global drownings occur in LMICs. Furthermore, Africa has been reported to have the highest drowning rates .

Varying reasons have been cited as contributing factors for the high burden of fatal drownings in LMICs, which include, but are not limited to, the lack of drowning prevention initiatives, the lack of regulations and policies related to drowning prevention, insufficient water safety awareness and education campaigns, and a lack of basic swimming skills

Dr. Cleeve Robertson NSRI CEO, says they will use the study to better interventions

‘’An organisation like the NSRI, data like this is fundamental to us launching interventions and prevention activities. Understanding the drowning society is very important to design solutions to prevention.’’

Dr. Jill Fortuin, Executive Director of Drowning Prevention at NSRI said Fatal drowning incidents are prevalent in children in the age group under 4, with 2 755 drowning incidents reported.

‘’This clearly confirms that this age group is a huge concern. It has the highest drowning across all age groups. One child drowns one day across

Fortuin says the data in the study is based on reported fatal drownings, so it is possible the number of South African drownings could be more.

‘’We only receive one set of drowning data, so there could be situations were there was no body found or someone hasn’t reported a drowning as it hasn’t occurred. Furthermore, this data gives us one perspective. Things like where was the pre-event.

Furthermore, in the study, it was found that more males drowned in South Africa compared to females. Males represent 81% of all the drownings for the time period of the study.

The KwaZulu-Natal province has the most reported drownings, with 2 114 drownings recorded from 2016 to 2021, followed by the Eastern Cape with 1 869, Gauteng has 1 006 reported drownings, and the Western Cape recorded 864 drownings in the 6 year-period.

‘’ During the month of January, the number of fatal drownings was recorded as 1171, whereas February recorded 931 and November recorded 882. Sundays were the day of the week when fatal drownings (n = 1591) occurred more frequently, followed by Saturdays (n = 1503). Fatal drownings have been most frequently reported as occurring between 16:00 and 19:59 (n = 2639),’’ said Dr. Jill Fortuin, Executive Director of Drowning Prevention at NSRI.

The research findings highlight that fatal drownings are most likely to occur in January and February; these months are the warmer months in South Africa. Research has indicated that the drowning incidence was higher in warmer months due to the increase in waterrelated activities [15]. The day of the week reported as the day when fatal drownings frequently occur is Sunday, which is a recreational day when people can visit dams, beaches, swimming pools, etc. With these results, adequate drowning prevention interventions can be implemented. For example, increasing lifeguard coverage during the months of January and February, especially on Sundays, with a focus on the time period from 16:00 to 19:59,’’ she added.

The study revealed that the highest number of drownings occurred in freshwater, with 3 713 drownings reported from 2016 to 2021

‘’ Fatal drownings occurred more frequently in freshwater in South Africa during the 2016 to 2021 period. This is in keeping with the findings of the epidemiology of drowning in other LMICs, which indicates that drownings are common in small bodies of water, such as cisterns and wells, as they are more commonly used than saltwater bodies,’’ said NSRI CEO Dr. Cleeve Robertson

The message this festive season, says the NSRI, is to be cautious.

“With the festive season upon us, we are urging extreme caution to South Africans who will be making their way to the coast to not drink and swim, supervise children in and around the water and ensure that you know the emergency number,” said Dr. Jill Fortuin, Executive Director of Drowning Prevention at NSRI.

 

Compiled by: Mitchum George

Unemployment rate in SA drops by 1% in the 3rd Quarter

SA's official unemployment rate decreased by 1,0 percentage point at the end of September.

Unemployment dropped from 33,9% in the second quarter of 2022 to 32,9% in the third quarter of 2022. This is according to the Stats SA's Quarterly Labour Force Survey covering the third quarter of the year, which showed that 204,000 jobs were gained between the second quarter of 2022 and the third quarter of 2022.

The jobs were gained mainly in manufacturing.

The number of unemployed persons decreased by 269,000 to 7,7-million and discouraged work-seekers also decreased by 54,000 to 3,5-million in the third quarter of 2022 compared to the previous quarter. The number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 264,000 between the two quarters, resulting in a net increase of 210,000 in the not economically active population

During the period under review, there were 123,000 jobs created in manufacturing, 82,000 in trade, while construction created 46,000 and transport 33,000 jobs.

The largest losses were recorded across finance with 80,000 jobs lost, 36,000 in private households, mining and agriculture recorded 1,000 losses each.

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Bleak weekend as City's Emergency call centre sees increase in assault and domestic violence cases

Cape Town’s law enforcement officers arrested 18 suspects for various crimes over the weekend. This compared to the 242 arrests made in the past week.

Metro Police arrested an 18-year-old for being in possession of a 9mm pistol with a live round in the chamber. Officers were conducting general patrols on the R300 off-ramp to Stock Road, when they heard two gunshots nearby.

In a separate incident and Officers arrested a 20-year-old man for being in possession of an imitation firearm at the Company’s Garden. Other arrests made by officers includes six for the possession of a stolen vehicle in separate incidents in Hanover Park and Athlone, 4 suspects detained related to metal theft in Elsies River, and Six arrests were made related to a hijacking following a high speed chase from Observatory to Bonteheuwel

The mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith attributed the arrests to the City’s newly installed technology.

‘’That amounts to 18 arrests in just more than 48 hours, all thanks to officers being on the roads, conducting patrols, and being observant. And the list is even longer, but unfortunately, due to the volume of work done by our staff, we are not able to highlight each and every incident. We should also not forget the role that technology is playing, more and more, in our enforcement approach, as the arrests by the Highway Patrol Unit show.’’

Meanwhile, the City’s Public Emergency communication Centre saw a worrying increase in assault cases over the weekend. 178 calls were logged between Friday & Sunday. This is 45 calls more than the previous weekend.

Additionally, more than double the number of domestic violence incidents were called compared to the previous weekend

‘’It is utterly shocking, considering that the observance of the annual 16 days of activism campaign for no violence against women and children has just gotten under way. It is an indictment on our society – we simply need to do better,’’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

Forty-five people left displaced following Bonteheuwel fire

Forty-five people, including 15 children, have been left displaced after a fire ripped through Bonteheuwel, on Monday.

Ward councillor, Angus McKenzie said the incident happened in Bessie and Boekenhout street, destroying 15 structures and 3 homes.

‘’Thankfully there was no lose of life however a dog sadly perished in the blaze. 15 children and 30 adults lost everything in this fire.’’

Spokesperson for the City’s Fire & Rescue Service, Jermaine Carelse, said firefighters was alerted of the blaze at 11:35.

SCREENSHOT: Fire ravaged in Bessie Street, Bonteheuwel

‘’Upon arrival of the first crew, the officer, called upon additional resources to contain the spread of fire. A total of four fire engines, two water tankers and 24 firefighters battled the blaze which was extinguished at approximately 14:00.’’

Carelse said the cause of the fire is unknown, however McKenzie alleges the fire was caused by perpetrators slashing the fire hose.

‘’ Sadly the extent of the fire damage could have been prevented if individuals did not slash the fire hose. I am appealing to community members to advise who the individual is so that he can be arrested and accordingly charged for reckless and irresponsible actions.’’

The ward councillor pleaded with residents to donate non-perishable items, clothes, etc.

‘’Anyone able to help or assist can directly drop off donations in Bessie Avenue or Boekenhout Street, Bontehuewel,’’ said ward councillor, Angus McKenzie.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

NSRI appeals to water users to be safe

A 35-year-old woman from Mossel Bay has drowned at Glentana on Sunday.

NSRI’s Craig Lambinon said a local Neighbourhood Watch member had rescued the woman from the water.

‘’CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) efforts commenced. Sadly after all efforts to resuscitate the female were exhausted she was declared deceased by paramedics.’’

‘’The body of the female has been taken into the care of Government Health Forensic Pathology Services. Police have opened an inquest docket,’’ added Lambinon.

Meanwhile, an 11-year-old rescued a toddler following a non-fatal drowning on Saturday

‘’At 14h32, Saturday, 26 November, NSRI Knysna duty crew were activated following of a incident, involving a child, at the Green Hole, Leisure Isle. On arrival on the scene medical treatment was commenced on a 3 year old male child that had been rescued from the lagoon reportedly by a youngster, aged approximately 11.’’

‘’The child was stabilised on the scene before being transported to hospital by ER24 ambulance in a serious condition. The swift response is commended,’’ added Lambinon.

The NSRI has appealed to water lovers to be cautious.

‘’We are appealing to bathers to only swim at beaches protected by lifeguards. Obey the lifeguards instructions and only swim where the lifeguards post their safety marcade swimming areas using their red and yellow flags.

Children should have responsible adult supervision when they are swimming at swimming pools, inland waterways, at beaches, and lagoons.

Lambinon encouraged water users to have a safety conscience mindset in and around water.

 

PICTURE: NSRI

Done By: Mitchum George

Elderly woman collapses from heat whilst hiking on Table Mountain

An elderly woman was transported to hospital on Monday afternoon, after she collapsed whilst hiking on Table Mountain.

ER24 spokesperson, Russel Meiring said, the 67-year-old woman whilst hiking on the Platteklip Gorge, collapsed due to a heat injury.

‘’On arrival, medics found that the AMS Medical Helicopter had airlifted the woman from the trail and brought her to the base of the mountain.

‘’On assessment, medics found that the woman had sustained serious heat injuries and was in a critical condition. The woman was treated and provided with advanced life support interventions before she was transported to a nearby hospital for further care,’’ added Meiring.

He added that local authorities were on the scene for further investigations.

 

PICTURE: Pngtree

Done By: Mitchum George

36 yr old man arrested for Domestic Violence in Cape Town

 

Members of Operation Restore were conducting patrols in Sweet Home Farms informal settlement on Monday morning at about 00:30 when they were stopped by a member of the community who had a domestic violence related complaint.

The members assisted the complainant and went with her to her residence. The members found a male inside the house and was pointed out by the complainant as the suspect. The members wanted to search him but he refused and pulled out a firearm and pointed it at the members. A scuffle between the suspect and the members ensued and he was apprehended and the firearm recovered.

 A 36 year old male was arrested on charges of domestic violence, pointing of a firearm and attack on police.

The suspect is due to make a court appearance in the Philippi Magistrates court once he has been charged.

Done by Lizeka Tsotetsi

Crime stats July-Sept. 2022

Police Minister, Bheki Cele, along with Head of crime research in the SAPS Major-General Norman Sekhukhune released the crime statistics on Wednesday for the second quarter of the 2022/2023 financial year. The latest figures which runs from the 1^st of July to 30 September 2022, are compared to the same period last year when the country was under lockdown due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Between July to September 2021, the country was under Lockdown level 4, 3 and 2.

The police minister has expressed concern over women who are targeted in crimes.

In the three months of reporting, a double-digit percentage increase was recorded for murder, attempted murder and assault to cause grievous bodily harm, against women.

Over 13 000 women were victims of assault with intend to cause grievous bodily harm between July and September this year. More than 1 200 women were victims of attempted murder, and 989 women were murdered during this reporting period.

The rate at which women are abused, violated and some killed in South Africa remains worrying and unacceptable

As we edge closer to commemorating the commencement of the global 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign on the 25th of November, the reality is women continue to be victims of violent crimes in South Africa.

Over 10 000 rape cases were opened with the SAPS, between July and September this year.

From a sample of 8227 rape incidents that were perused, it was determined that 5 083 which is 62% of these incidents occurred at the residence of the victims or perpetrators. Cele revealed that 1 651 of the rape incidents occurred at public places such as streets, parks and beaches., and that 69 people were raped at abandoned buildings.

Delft in the Western Cape are one of the three top stations with the highest rape cases.

 

Mpumalanga is the only province to report     a decrease in rape incidents. Inanda police station in KwaZulu-Natal, Mthatha in the Eastern Cape and Delft in the Western Cape are the three top stations with the highest rape cases. Buses, taxis, trains and other modes of public transport, were the third most likely places of occurrence for rape incidents.

Police minister, Bheki Cele revealed that in just six months, 558 children were killed in South Africa from April to September this year. Cases of 294 children are being probed for attempted murder from July to September. Cele said 1 895 Assault to cause GBH cases, with children as victims, were opened with the police during this reporting period.

The crime statistics again show that we as communities continue to fail to protect some of the most vulnerable in society; our children.

It is on this note, that the SAPS continues to prioritize Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) related crimes.

Between July and September this year, the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit arrested 4 375 perpetrators of crimes committed against women and children. In the last two financial years, 822 perpetrators of GBV crimes were sentenced to life. 114 life sentences were handed down for GBV crimes in the first six months of the 2022/2023 financial year.

Cele said SAPS traced and arrested 410 rapists during this reporting period. 68 of them have been sentenced to life behind bars.

Members of the media,

It is very encouraging that the Criminal Justice System continues to send a strong message of zero tolerance on rape, through the stiff sentences handed out to rapists.

Allow me to touch on just a few of these sentences.

Six life sentences were handed down to Lebohang Nyoka in the Northern Cape for rape, housebreaking and theft.

 

For the rape of two minors aged 10, the courts sentenced Ernest Mckein to life in prison in the Western Cape.

In Gauteng, a 32-year old Diepsloot serial rapist, was found guilty and sentenced to 16 life sentences, plus 250 years in prison for robbing and raping 16 women.

32-year old Asha Moyo stalked and attacked his victims, threatening them with a firearm, before raping them.

His youngest victim was 13 years old.

33 year old Pastor, Hlumelo Dywili was also sentenced to life in August, for the rape of a 33 year old congregant.

It is clear, the broader civil society, religious organizations and various community structures must sharply address the causes and preventative measures of crimes against women and children.

Such conversations combined with awareness programs and action by the SAPS, are important and do lead to prevention of these deeply disturbing gender based crimes.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As a Ministry, we remain extremely concerned about rapes at educational premises.

In the three months of reporting, 83 rapes occurred at educational facilities, including basic education schools and tertiary institutions.

One needs to take into cognizance that educational facilities refer to the scene of the crime and should not interpreted to imply that all perpetrators and or victims were pupils or students.

In terms of DNA backlog and Cele revealed that there is more than 111 thousand DNA specimens at SAPS’ forensic service laboratories.

Out of this figure, 67 905 is DNA backlog which, Cele says, has been reduced from over 241 167 in May 2021.

He added that the rest of the DNA specimens from the total 111 174 figure, 43 269 falls within the allocated time of 113 days.

Assurances has been made to this Ministry that the SAPS will meet its deadline of clearing the DNA backlog.

Ladies and Gentlemen, We have truly come a long way since the DNA backlog was first discovered at our forensic service laboratories in May 2021.

Daily work and interventions continue, to ensure the SAPS never goes back to the dark days, where the DNA backlog reached levels of over 200 thousand cases. ALL hands are on deck to capacitate and empower the forensic service laboratories to deliver a quality service for ALL South Africans.

With regards to assault cases and Cele said the levels of aggression and violence are worrying in South Africa. He revealed that the July to September months saw a record number of assault cases reported to the police in five years, with a  total of 85 640 assault GBH and common assault cases in the three months of reporting.

Arguments, road rage, provocation and misunderstandings as well as retaliation, revenge and punishment, remain the top motives for assaults GBH.

 

12 203 assault GBH cases took place behind closed doors; either at the home of the victim or the home of the perpetrator.

 

The second most likely place of occurrence for assault GBH was at public places such as street, open field, recreational center or abandoned buildings.

 

6 662 assault GBH cases were Domestic Violence-related.

 

This means the perpetrator and victim had some type of a domestic relationship.

Furthermore, 7 004 people were killed by other persons in South Africa in the second quarter of 2022/2023 financial year.

This is an increase of 841 more people murdered, compared to the same period last year, when the country was placed under COVID-19 Lockdown levels four, three and two.

Arguments, misunderstandings and incidents of road rage and provocations accounted for 956 murders in the country. Vigilantism incidents claimed the lives of 528 people while 362 people were killed during the commission of a robbery. Inanda, uMlazi, police stations in KwaZulu-Natal and Nyanga station in the Western Cape registered the highest counts of murder during this period. A total of 274 counts of murder were reported in those three areas combined.

In terms of police killings, and 22 police officers were killed during July to September 2022, this is two members less compared to the same reporting period last year. According to SAPS, Firearms remain the weapon of choice in most of the reported murders, 2 808 people were shot and killed. 961 of the reported murders in KwaZulu-Natal were as a result of firearms followed by Gauteng with 768 murders.  526 people died from gunshot wounds in the Western Cape.

Fighting crime has also come at a cost for members of the SAPS across the country.

It is on this note that this Ministry will never stop calling on SAPS members to defend themselves at ALL times from ruthless criminals whenever they are under attack.

It is quite simple; POLICE MUST MEET FIRE WITH FIRE!

Police Minister, Bheki Cele said more must be done to prevent and also respond to trio crimes that he says, are often carried out publicly in a violent manner.

A total of 356 vehicles were reported hijacked in Nyanga, Harare and Phillipe East combined, all in the Western Cape.

The month of July 2022, saw the majority of carjacking, robbery at residential and non-residential premises cases reported to the police.

Increases have been noted in crimes under sub category aggravated robbery.

Over 6 000 carjacking were reported to the police from July to September 2022.

While the Free State and Limpopo recorded decreases in carjackings, a 24% increase was observed nationally.

Kidnappings have doubled nationally with over 4 000 counts reported to the police between July and September 2022.

Carjacking, robbery and rape were the top three motives for the recorded kidnapping cases during July to September across the country.

Cele announced that 10 000 additional SAPS officers will in December be deployed for will police visibility during the festive season and beyond.

The police minister said More boots will be on the ground and escalated crime prevention and crime-combating operations will be a daily occurrence until the end of January 2023.

olice have their work cut out for them.

 

Communities, young and old also have a role to play towards lowering the crime rate in the country.

 

We encourage active participation against the common enemy of crime through formal involvement such as Community Policing forums (CPF) or other structures that enhance the policing footprint.

 

Mphakathi, Don’t look away, let us act against crime together;

 

 “IPHOYISA IPHOYISA NGOMPHAKATHI”

* NOTE: Words in bold were uttered by Police Minister, Bheki Cele