Latest news with #R107
IOL News
20 hours ago
- IOL News
Join the Fight to #Save Table Mountain: Petition for Accountability and Action
Friends of Table Mountain have launched a petition demanding accountability and alleging that Table Mountain National Park is being mismanaged. The petition has nearly 4 000 signatures. Image: Picture: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers A petition demanding accountability, calling for comprehensive action to restore and protect Table Mountain, is set to cross 4 000 signatures. The campaign, driven by Friends of Table Mountain and supported by Take Back Our Mountains, Love Our Trails, Table Mountain Watch, Table Mountain Bikers and Hikers Network, said they believe it's their right and responsibility to demand accountability and action. 'Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) is plagued by critical issues directly attributable to SANParks' poor management and underfunding. These problems threaten the park's ecological integrity, visitor safety and tourism potential,' the collective's campaign said. They are concerned by the persistently high crime rates, failure of their conservation mandate, decaying infrastructure, insufficient signage, runaway fires, and the decay of tourism infrastructure. They also raised concerns regarding SANParks spending only R107 million on TMNP in 2024, despite generating R430 million in income. They said that as concerned citizens and users of TMNP, they demand transparent resourcing, enhanced safety and security, an effective 24/7 control centre for reporting issues, cameras at trailheads and key hotspots, expansion of the K9 dog unit and Infrastructure review and investment, as well as fair permit fees. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ SANParks spokesperson, JP Louw, said the safety of Table Mountain requires a whole-of-society approach. 'The beauty of this national park is breathtaking. But beauty can become dangerous if basic safety rules are ignored. That's why SANParks continues to issue safety guidelines, and recent incidents prove just how vital those messages are. 'But what is the use of signage, media engagements, awareness blitzes, loud hailers, and all other efforts to get the message out when, at a partnership level, we do not seek to join efforts to push back against criminal elements?' Louw said. 'For context and not wishing to nitpick, a few scenarios will illustrate this aptly. A young lady was stranded at about 8pm on a Friday night with no cellphone or cash. 'Our rangers, whilst on a routine safety patrol, came across her and offered assistance. In another instance, a group of ladies in their late teens and early twenties were also found walking from Signal Hill to Lion's Head by themselves at night. This is unsafe, as we advise hikers not to hike at night,' Louw said. Louw stated that SANParks has consistently demonstrated its commitment to preserving nature and ensuring public safety. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
Help #SaveTable Mountain: Petition calls for action against mismanagement
Friends of Table Mountain have launched a petition demanding accountability and alleging that Table Mountain National Park is being mismanaged. The petition has nearly 4 000 signatures. Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers A petition demanding accountability, calling for comprehensive action to restore and protect Table Mountain, is set to cross 4,000 signatures, with them urging more concerned residents to join them. This campaign, driven by Friends of Table Mountain and supported by Take Back Our Mountains, Love Our Trails, Table Mountain Watch, Table Mountain Bikers and Hikers Network, said that they believe it's their right and responsibility to demand accountability and action. 'Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) is plagued by critical issues directly attributable to SANParks' poor management and underfunding. These problems threaten the park's ecological integrity, visitor safety and tourism potential,' the collective's campaign said. They are concerned by the persistently high crime rates, failure of their conservation mandate, decaying infrastructure, insufficient signage, runaway fires, and the decay of tourism infrastructure. They also raised concerns regarding SANParks spending only R107 million on TMNP in 2024, despite generating R430 million in income. They said that as concerned citizens and users of TMNP, they demand transparent resourcing, enhanced safety and security, an effective 24/7 control centre for reporting issues, cameras at trailheads and key hotspots, expansion of the K9 dog unit and Infrastructure review and investment, as well as fair permit fees. "Table Mountain, Cape Town's iconic UNESCO World Heritage site and New7Wonder of Nature, is in a state of alarming decline. Despite generating significant revenue, SANParks is severely under-resourcing and mismanaging TMNP, leading to widespread deterioration and neglect. "Join our urgent call for comprehensive action to restore and protect this irreplaceable natural asset for current and future generations. As concerned mountain users and community members, we believe it's our right and responsibility to demand accountability and action," they said. This campaign, driven by Friends of Table Mountain and supported by Take Back Our Mountains, Love Our Trails, Table Mountain Watch, Table Mountain Bikers and Hikers Network, said that they believe it's their right and responsibility to demand accountability and action. Image: Henk Kruger/Independent Newspapers Archive SANParks Head of Communications and spokesperson, JP Louw, has addressed the aforementioned concerns, stating that the safety of Table Mountain requires a whole-of-society approach. 'The beauty of this national park is breathtaking. But beauty can become dangerous if basic safety rules are ignored. That's why SANParks continues to issue safety guidelines, and recent incidents prove just how vital those messages are. 'But what is the use of signage, media engagements, awareness blitzes, loud hailers, and all other efforts to get the message out when, at a partnership level, we do not seek to join efforts to push back against criminal elements?' Louw said. 'For context and not wishing to nitpick, a few scenarios will illustrate this aptly. A young lady was stranded at about 8 pm on a Friday night with no cellphone or cash. 'Our rangers, whilst on a routine safety patrol, came across her and offered assistance. In another instance, a group of ladies in their late teens and early twenties were also found walking from Signal Hill to Lion's Head by themselves at night. This is unsafe, as we advise hikers not to hike at night,' Louw said. Louw stated that SANParks has consistently demonstrated its commitment to preserving nature and ensuring public safety. 'But as we call for a partnership to work together, we are, of course, not excusing SANParks and its management of its responsibilities.' Louw has said that SANParks has implemented targeted operations, information sharing and joint deployment, along with joint operations with SAPS, City Law Enforcement, Metro Police and community safety initiatives. 'Debates about doing or spending more will, of course, rage on. Sadly, there are others who have no understanding of South Africa's successful and world-class conservation model that saved species like Bontebok and the Mountain Zebra. 'But that is a matter for another time and space, which clearly needs SANParks to introspect about the means to provide better education and information about its successful workings,' Louw said. 'Importantly, while we are engaged in debates, we should not lose sight of the positive strides that are being made. 'But we are also well aware of the critical need to partner with users of Table Mountain National Park to push back against criminal elements. It is also against this understanding that we continue inviting all who are keen to constructively support this effort to join hands,' Louw said. [email protected]
The South African
5 days ago
- The South African
Step aside Thabo Bester! Vusi Matlala and wife wear Gucci to court
Flamboyant businessman Vusi Matlala is giving Thabo Bester a run for his money after appearing at the Alexandria Magistrates Court wearing a Gucci suit worth over R100 000. The 'tenderpreneur', his wife Tsakani, and two others are facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and money laundering. Like Bester and his co-accused Nandipha Magudumana, Matlala and his wife are also awaiting trial. On Friday, Vusi Matlala, his wife Tsakani, and their co-accused appeared in the Alexandria Magistrates Court relating to charges of a 2023 attempted hit on his ex-girlfriend, Tebogo Thobejane. The case has been remanded to 26 August. Appearing before the court, Vusi Matlala wore a navy and pink Gucci monogrammed pinstripe suit, which retails for around $6 000 (R107 000). His wife Tsakani wore a grey skirt suit with matching Gucci spectacles and a Louis Vuitton belt. Like Thabo Bester's recent appearance, Matlala also sported a clean-shaven look with edgy, black glasses. Similarly to Bester – who has also worn high-fashion designers, Louis Vuitton and Burberry to court – the couple are known for their lavish lifestyles, flashy cars, and designer clothes. Matlala has been hailed as a ' tenderpreneur' for allegedly fraudulently acquiring multi-million rand government deals thanks to his high-ranking contacts. Thabo Bester and Vusi Matlala are fellow inmates at Kgosi Mampuru prison. Images via X In his previous appearance, Matlala wore a black and white Alexander McQueen jersey, no doubt showing off his wealth. Earlier this week, Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, confirmed that Thabo Bester and Vusi Matlala are inmates at Kgosi Mampuru's C-Max prison in Pretoria. Matlala was recently transferred to Kgosi Mampuru's C-Max after he was discovered in possession of a cellphone over the weekend. In 2023, Thabo Bester was also transferred to the maximum security facility after his prison escape from Magaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein a year earlier. During his incarceration, Bester unlawfully used the cellphones and laptops in his cell. In a follow-up raid this week, Matlala shared his concerns with the National Commissioner about his designer belongings. Thobakgale said of Matlala's complaints: 'He knows how he needs to channel the request. The same with Thabo Bester, he made a request. And the last time I was here, he submitted something to me in writing.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
6 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
SASSA puts concerns to rest: Grants continue throughout review period
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has assured beneficiaries that no social grants have been suspended amid ongoing eligibility reviews currently underway. SASSA confirmed that while some grants may experience momentary delays during the review process, this does not amount to a suspension. The review aims to confirm eligibility, prevent fraudulent claims, and ensure public funds are used responsibly. 'This review is not a punitive measure to deliberately exclude any deserving beneficiary,' said SASSA CEO Themba Matlou. 'It is intended to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds.' Why the review is happening The review process helps SASSA: Confirm changes in beneficiaries' financial, medical, or legal circumstances. Prevent grants from being paid to deceased individuals or those who have relocated without updating records. Detect cases where individuals receive grants while appearing on other payroll systems. Matlou reminded beneficiaries of their legal obligation to disclose all sources of income during their initial application and to report any changes in financial circumstances. Failure to do so may lead to corrective action. What affected beneficiaries should do Beneficiaries affected by the review process are urged to visit their nearest SASSA office with the following documents: Valid SA ID (green barcoded ID or smart ID card). Proof of income (e.g., payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if unemployed). Bank statements for the last three months for all active accounts. Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill). Medical referral report (if applicable). Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable). Death certificate (if applicable). Relevant documents for the grant type (e.g., birth certificates for Child Support Grants). If a beneficiary is bedridden, a procurator can be appointed to represent them. Contact your local SASSA office for assistance in appointing one. SASSA has urged beneficiaries to comply with review requests promptly. Failing to respond to official communication may result in delays in payments, suspension or lapsing of grants, and possible legal action. SASSA is working to automate the review process by introducing online self-service platforms to ease the burden on local offices and reduce queues. Updated asset and income thresholds As of 1 April 2025: Older persons, disability, and war veterans' grants: Single asset threshold: R1,524,600 Married asset threshold: R3,049,200 Annual income limit: R107,880 (single), R215,760 (married) Child Support Grant: Annual income limit: R67,200 (single), R134,400 (married) Care Dependency Grant: Annual income limit: R277,200 (married) Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress: R624 monthly means test remains applicable. For more information, beneficiaries are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA office or visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
08-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
SASSA confirms no grant suspensions amid ongoing eligibility reviews
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has assured beneficiaries that no social grants have been suspended amid ongoing eligibility reviews currently underway. SASSA confirmed that while some grants may experience momentary delays during the review process, this does not amount to a suspension. The review aims to confirm eligibility, prevent fraudulent claims, and ensure public funds are used responsibly. 'This review is not a punitive measure to deliberately exclude any deserving beneficiary,' said SASSA CEO Themba Matlou. 'It is intended to ensure continued eligibility and prevent misuse of public funds.' Why the review is happening The review process helps SASSA: Confirm changes in beneficiaries' financial, medical, or legal circumstances. Prevent grants from being paid to deceased individuals or those who have relocated without updating records. Detect cases where individuals receive grants while appearing on other payroll systems. Matlou reminded beneficiaries of their legal obligation to disclose all sources of income during their initial application and to report any changes in financial circumstances. Failure to do so may lead to corrective action. What affected beneficiaries should do Beneficiaries affected by the review process are urged to visit their nearest SASSA office with the following documents: Valid SA ID (green barcoded ID or smart ID card). Proof of income (e.g., payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if unemployed). Bank statements for the last three months for all active accounts. Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill). Medical referral report (if applicable). Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applicable). Death certificate (if applicable). Relevant documents for the grant type (e.g., birth certificates for Child Support Grants). If a beneficiary is bedridden, a procurator can be appointed to represent them. Contact your local SASSA office for assistance in appointing one. SASSA has urged beneficiaries to comply with review requests promptly. Failing to respond to official communication may result in delays in payments, suspension or lapsing of grants, and possible legal action. SASSA is working to automate the review process by introducing online self-service platforms to ease the burden on local offices and reduce queues. Updated asset and income thresholds As of 1 April 2025: Older persons, disability, and war veterans' grants: Single asset threshold: R1,524,600 Married asset threshold: R3,049,200 Annual income limit: R107,880 (single), R215,760 (married) Child Support Grant: Annual income limit: R67,200 (single), R134,400 (married) Care Dependency Grant: Annual income limit: R277,200 (married) Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress: R624 monthly means test remains applicable. For more information, beneficiaries are encouraged to visit their nearest SASSA office or visit At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
