Latest news with #Mazibuko
Daily Maverick
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Maverick
Transnet seeks liquid bulk terminal proposals for Port of Ngqura
Transnet National Ports Authority has issued a Request for Proposals for the appointment of a terminal operator to fund, design, develop, construct, operate, maintain and eventually transfer a liquid bulk terminal at the Port of Ngqura, for a concession period of 25 years. In what Transnet described as the first step to move the tank farm at the Port of Port Elizabeth to the Port of Ngqura, the parastatal has issued a request for proposals from operators to run a new tank farm at the new location. 'The RFP is a ground-breaking milestone in the relocation of the tank farm from the Port of Port Elizabeth to the Port of Ngqura, in line with approved port development plans. The move comes as Transnet is implementing its Reinvent for Growth Strategy, which seeks to transform and grow the business. The new terminal will include liquid bulk storage tanks, road tanker loading gantries, pipelines and the necessary terminal operation infrastructure,' the statement reads. It continued that the landside operation of the proposed terminal was earmarked for the port's liquid bulk precinct located at the eastern extents of the back of port land adjacent to the N2. 'Future developments planned for this precinct will be further developed for energy-related commodities such as liquefied natural gas,' the statement said. '[The new terminal] is intended to foster regional and national economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability,' said acting general manager for commercial services at TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority), Dr Dineo Mazibuko. 'TNPA takes pride in the Port of Ngqura being the only South African commercial seaport in possession of an environmental authorisation for its port operation. In keeping with this green status, the appointed terminal operator will ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, safety and regulatory standards,' Mazibuko said. Decades in the making The moving of the tank farm from the Port of Port Elizabeth has been decades in the making. In 2011, the transfer of the tank farm was stalled due to 'insufficient customer commitment'. Eleven years later, responding to a parliamentary question in 2022, former minister of public enterprises, the late Pravin Gordhan, explained the reason for further delays: 'The delay in the relocation of the fuel tank farm was due to the inability of an operator that was appointed in terms of Section 56 of the National Ports Act, to achieve a commercially viable business case for the proposed terminal, and thus a decision was taken to discontinue the project. 'Subsequently, Transnet supported the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) in developing the liquid bulk facilities in Zone 5 of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in view of the advanced progress the CDC had made with the development of their liquid bulk storage facility. 'The Transnet National Ports Authority has given termination notice to Astron Energy (Pty) Ltd, Engen Petroleum Ltd, and Total Energies Marketing South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Oil Majors) who operate the Liquid Bulk Terminal in the Port of Port Elizabeth, effective 30 April 2022. As a result of this termination notice, the Oil Majors have lodged an appeal to the Ports Regulator of South Africa (PRSA) contesting this termination. 'A firm timeline for the relocation cannot be determined until such time that: TNPA and Astron settle the PRSA matter. There is a firm commitment from the Oil Majors to commit to commercial offtakes with the CDC or a liquid bulk storage facility operator appointed by the implementing agent, CDC. 'In October 2020, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) issued a Remediation Order in terms of Part 8 of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act of 2008. This Remediation Order will regulate how the Oil Majors will undertake the decommissioning and remediation of the Port of Port Elizabeth's liquid bulk terminal. TNPA has initiated negotiations to conclude a Decommissioning and Remediation Exit Agreement. 'The Oil Majors have cited that this Agreement cannot be finalised without the PRSA appeal being determined and for realistic timelines for the relocation to the Port of Ngqura/CDC SEZ being agreed to,' Gordhan said at the time. DM
IOL News
11-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
June 16: A legacy of struggle, a prosperous future unfulfilled
Township residents and schoolchildren re-enact the 1976 Soweto uprising. Image: Picture: AP Given the brunt of poverty, inequality and unemployment that young people perpetually face in this country, it is legitimate to ask what it is that we are expecting an increasingly impoverished and disenfranchised youth to celebrate this Youth Month. Are we merely paying lip service to the legacy of the class of '76, or are we genuinely committed to addressing the systemic challenges that young people are currently facing? As we commemorate the sacrifices of the class of '76, we must equally ask ourselves: What are WE celebrating? Is it merely the bravery of the past, or are we also acknowledging the failures of the present? It's been 49 years since the brave students of 1976 stood up against the apartheid regime's attempt to impose Afrikaans as the language of instruction in black schools. Their determination and sacrifice sparked a national movement that would change the course of South African history. As Seth Mazibuko, one of the courageous committee members who coordinated the June 16 uprising so eloquently, puts it, in a reflective conversation, 'The memory of the moment of the 16th of June 1976 forever sits in my heart and my mind. It felt like an awakening of a generation. ''A moment in history where, regardless of gender, age, geography, and ethnicity, the mission was one: To say enough! to injustice, segregation and indignity in both the education system at the time as well as society at large. 'We were very organised, and what most people may not be aware of was that this day was secretly well planned in a very short space of time to reach thousands of students across the country. While we knew that this was a cause much bigger than ourselves, we were determined to no longer put up with the oppression which our parents seemed too demoralised to do anything about.' 'What is now heartbreaking to witness in 2025 is how many of the struggles we fought for, which claimed thousands of lives, still plague today's youth. How is this possible?' The students' fight was not solely about language, but very much about equality and human rights. Thousands lost their lives in the ensuing violence, but their legacy lives on. Yet, as stated by Mr Mazibuko, despite the progress we've made as a nation, many of the same struggles that were hard fought for continue to persist. To this day, South Africa's youth face unprecedented challenges, and the numbers are stark. According to the Statistics South Africa Quarterly Labour Force Survey, in the first quarter of 2025, the unemployment rate for young people aged 15-34 stood at 46.2% overall, with a staggering 62.4% for those aged 15-24. The Not in Employment, Education, and Training (NEET) trajectory is a particular concern. Of the 10.3 million young people aged 15-24 years in Q1 of 2025, 37.1% of this number fell into this category. This translates to a significant portion of our youth being disconnected from opportunities that could help them build a better future. It is important to note that these alarming figures are more than just statistics; they represent a lost generation of young people who are being left behind. Without access to the prerequisite knowledge, skills and platforms necessary to develop their capacities, young people are more likely to fall prey to poverty, crime, and social unrest. Thereby signalling the alarm bells of a country in crisis. Our education system also finds itself in a critical juncture. Of the learners who start Grade 1, around 40% will drop out before they complete matric. This contributes to the year-on-year increase in the NEET cluster, with dire long-term consequences for our economy and individuals directly affected by it. It goes without saying that as individuals get older, their prospects for development diminish, and their fullest potential remains unfulfilled. Tebogo Suping is a sustainable development specialist with extensive experience in leading national and regional youth empowerment, governance and civic education programmes. Image: Supplied In addition, the cycle of poverty, inequality, and unemployment continues to burden our youth. Many are disillusioned, and their potential is being wasted. Our prisons are filling up with young people, primarily black and male, who are either perpetrators or once victims of violent crime themselves. These are no doubt symptoms of a failing state that is unequivocally failing its youth, and the list of these countless socio-economic disparities goes on and on, begging the critical question of what kind of future we are building for our young people This is because while our government claims to stand for non-racist, non-sexist and democratic ideals, the reality on the ground tells a much different story, and to turn this tide, we need a multifaceted approach that prioritises government accountability and transparency. How might we solve these pressing issues? Rooting out state corruption is essential to ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to address the growing challenges faced by our youth. This includes implementing targeted interventions that provide education, training, and decent work tailored to the needs of young people. Moreover, collaboration and partnership are crucial between the government, civil society, and the private sector to provide mentorship, skills development, and meaningful job opportunities that can help young people build a better future. By investing in our youth, we can unlock their potential and create a more prosperous and equitable society.
The Citizen
11-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Tribal authority donates land to secure food security and jobs for youth
Tribal authority donates land to secure food security and jobs for youth In a bold move to honour Youth Month, the Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD), in partnership with Rebafenyi Development Youth Centre, launched an agricultural empowerment project on June 10. The launch took place at the Mashimong agricultural site in Hammanskraal and was graced by local community members and the tribal authority. The initiative aims to equip young people in Hammanskraal with practical skills in crop production and agri-business. According to the department, the initiative forms part of a series of interventions planned for Youth Month. It is designed to empower about 160 young people with the knowledge and tools to participate meaningfully in the agricultural sector, while addressing food insecurity and unemployment. Addressing community members and stakeholders at the event, MEC Faith Mazibuko highlighted the importance of self-reliance among young people. 'Our objective is to equip young people with the necessary skills to break the cycle of dependency on social grants. We want them to become self-sustainable through plant production and entrepreneurship,' said Mazibuko. She also encouraged young people to embrace agriculture as a viable career path that can uplift communities and deter youth from social ills, such as substance and alcohol abuse. 'Opportunities like these must be seized. Agriculture holds the key to ending poverty and hunger. We want our youth to see themselves not only as future farmers but as future agri-preneurs.' The project has been made possible through land support from Amandebele Ba Lebelo Tribal Authority, which donated eight hectares of land to establish the agricultural site. Tribal authority representative, Nicholus Moeketsi, praised the initiative as a life-changing opportunity for local youth. 'This project is vital for our community. It provides our young people with meaningful engagement and a way to earn a living, rather than idling on the streets,' said Moeketsi. He also emphasised the importance of the project as a youth-focused initiative that has the potential to uplift vulnerable groups within the community. 'It also has the potential to contribute towards feeding children from vulnerable families.' For 20-year-old Onkarabile Phasha, who is one of the beneficiaries, the programme has already become a turning point. He shared how the practical training has helped him shape a vision for the future. 'I joined the centre in 2023 to learn about plant production, and I have gained a lot. I aspire to own a piece of land where I can grow my own crops and train others. This programme is shaping my future,' said Phasha. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to bennittb@ or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- The Citizen
Gauteng takes the lead in child welfare through certified care facilities
Gauteng takes the lead in child welfare through certified care facilities Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Social Development in Gauteng, Faith Mazibuko, has taken a stance against child abuse during National Child Protection Week. In a society where children continue to bear the brunt of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and abandonment, Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCCs) stand as crucial sanctuaries of hope and healing. These centres are more than just shelters; they are structured, rehabilitative spaces where the rights, dignity, and potential of every child are protected and nurtured. In Gauteng, the Department of Social Development plays a crucial role in ensuring that these facilities not only exist but also deliver quality care in line with the Children's Act 38 of 2005. The Act defines CYCCs as facilities providing residential care to more than six children outside their family environment, using tailored programmes to meet individual needs. This umbrella includes children's homes, temporary safe care reform schools, schools of industries and secure care. While the environments may differ, the goal remains the same: to protect and rebuild lives. A home for the voiceless Children placed in CYCCs are not there by chance. These are children who have endured unimaginable circumstances, abandonment, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or trauma and those who may conflict with the law. 'Some come from families that can no longer control destructive behaviour; others are victims of substance abuse, trafficking, or domestic violence. 'Whatever the reason, these centres are a last line of defence to prevent a life derailed from turning into a life destroyed,' said Mazibuko. 'Every placement is done through a court order to safeguard the child's rights and ensure due process. 'Importantly, only registered CYCCs are legally permitted to accommodate children, another safeguard that speaks to the Department of Social Development's commitment to protecting children from further harm.' Gauteng's approach In Gauteng, the DSD not only facilitates placement into CYCCs, but also accredits, governs, supports, and monitors these facilities to ensure that children receive comprehensive services. 'The department requires rigorous registration processes that include various municipal compliance permits, health inspections, staff credentials, food safety, emergency preparedness, and clearly outlined developmental and therapeutic programmes,' said Mazibuko. 'Once inside a CYCC, children receive far more than a roof over their heads. 'The department ensures that every registered CYCC offers structured therapeutic, recreational, and developmental programmes. 'From trauma counselling and play therapy to life skills training, substance abuse prevention, and even pottery or beadwork, these activities are designed to rebuild trust, confidence, and a sense of self-worth,' said the MEC. One of the most commendable features of Gauteng's CYCC programmes is the focus on independent living programmes, particularly for older children transitioning out of care. Preparing them to re-enter society with practical skills, emotional resilience, and social competence speaks volumes about the department's long-term commitment to these young people. 'Recreational and educational programmes, like sports, drama, Indigenous games, and victim empowerment sessions, contribute to holistic development. 'These aren't luxuries; they are critical in restoring a sense of normalcy, purpose, and joy in the lives of children who have known very little of it,' said Mazibuko. The Department of Social Development's role doesn't end at registration or programme design. It remains a constant presence, providing oversight, offering support, and ensuring that every CYCC operates with integrity and compliance. 'Contact points across all regions in Gauteng emphasise the Department's accessibility and willingness to respond to community and professional queries alike,' said Mazibuko. Call to action The Gauteng Department of Social Development maintains a database of 150 accredited CYCCs, of which 141 are NPO-run and nine are Government-run. In some CYCCs, the department subsidises administration, social work and child and youth care posts. 'The existence and effectiveness of CYCCs should not be the sole concern of government Departments or Social Workers, it is a societal responsibility. 'Communities, civil society organisations, and even individuals have a role to play in reporting suspected abuse, advocating for children's rights, supporting CYCC initiatives and reporting unregistered centres,' said Mazibuko. 'As South Africa continues to grapple with high rates of child abuse and neglect, CYCCs are an indispensable component of the national child protection strategy. They are not just buildings; they are bridges. Bridges to safety, healing, and a better future. 'Let us recognise and support the life-changing work happening in CYCCs across Gauteng and ensure that every child, regardless of their past, has a chance at a dignified, hopeful future. 'As we observe Child Protection Month and Week, let us also take a moment to appreciate the work done at these centres in the care and protection of children,' said Mazibuko. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
02-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
No NPO crisis
The Gauteng Department of Social Development (GDSD) has rejected false and alarming claims made by some political parties and groups alleging there is a non-profit organisation (NPO) funding crisis. • Also read: NPO appeals process for funding underway According to the MEC for Social Development, Faith Mazibuko, these claims are said to be not only misleading but also deliberately distorting the facts to create unnecessary panic within the sector and among the communities that the department serves. Mazibuko made it clear that while the department experienced funding challenges in the previous financial year, these challenges have been effectively addressed, and the ongoing narrative of a crisis is a gross misrepresentation of facts. She said the department has adjudicated about 2 000 applications from NPOs. 'So far, over 1 200 letters of award have been issued to successful organisations. Notifications to unsuccessful applicants are underway, with a formal appeals process in place. Appeals must be lodged within seven days of receiving a rejection notice and are being handled by a dedicated team led by the Deputy Director-General. 'The department has also signed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with many of the approved NPOs, and over 300 SLAs have already been paid. A brief payment delay occurred due to technical issues at Treasury – a challenge not unique to Gauteng. Several other provinces also only effected NPO payments last week for the same treasury-related reasons.' According to the MEC, payments are now being processed daily, and the department is on track to complete payments to all approved NPOs by the end of the first quarter of the current financial year. 'The department's ongoing engagement with the NPO sector through meetings and media platforms keeps NPOs informed and supported. These efforts have ensured stability, with no protest action directed at the department's offices.' The MEC further issued a clear warning that compliance is not an option. 'NPOs are expected to meet all legislative and regulatory requirements, including municipal by-laws, departmental programme registration, and full compliance with the NPO Act. The Department will not be held responsible for the consequences faced by organisations that fail to comply. The GDSD remains focused and unwavering in its commitment to work with compliant NPOs to deliver critical services to the people of Gauteng. We will not be derailed by misinformation or political grandstanding,' she concluded. If you are affected as an NPO or NGO, please send an email to randfonteinherald@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
