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Daily Maverick
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Maverick
When xenophobia rears its ugly head it is time to ask the right questions
Have you noticed how, without fail, the ugly head of xenophobia always seems to re-emerge in the run-up to local elections? It's no accident. It's a strategy, and one we've seen play out time and again. When political failures pile up and service delivery grinds to a halt, scapegoating foreign nationals becomes a convenient distraction. Instead of holding local government accountable for broken promises, potholes, power cuts and clinics without doctors, we're told the problem is 'illegal foreigners'. It's a dangerous misdirection and it's costing lives. Instead of directing our rightful anger towards dysfunctional municipalities and inept leadership, we're encouraged sometimes by officials themselves to lash out at those even more vulnerable than us. It's easier to point fingers at desperate migrants in clinic queues than to question how our cities became places of neglect. Nowhere is this more evident than in the deeply troubling scenes unfolding outside public healthcare facilities across South Africa. Foreign nationals or those merely suspected of being foreign are being chased away, blocked from entering clinics and denied their constitutional rights. These acts aren't just inhumane; they are illegal. Let's be clear, section 27 of the South African Constitution guarantees everyone – yes, everyone – the right to access healthcare services. This includes migrants, asylum seekers and undocumented persons. It is not a matter of opinion. It is the law. And here's the part too many people overlook: having all people healthy within our borders is a public good. Allowing anyone, regardless of nationality, to suffer from untreated TB, measles or HIV does not just threaten their health, it endangers ours. Public health doesn't discriminate, and neither should we. What makes this even more dangerous is the recent targeting of human rights organisations like the Socio-Economic Rights Institute (Seri), Helen Suzman Foundation and the South African Human Rights Commission by xenophobic movements like Operation Dudula. These organisations grounded in constitutionalism and justice have dared to remind us that we are a country governed by laws, not mob sentiment. In the face of these attacks, Abahlali baseMjondolo showed us what real solidarity looks like. Their decision to form a human chain outside Seri's offices, physically defending the space and its staff, was an act of profound courage. It reminded us that human rights are not abstract principles, they must be defended in action, in public and with conviction. This is not just about foreign nationals. This is about the soul of our democracy. If we allow attacks on human rights defenders and on organisations like Seri to go unanswered, we set the stage for broader repression. Today it's them. Tomorrow it's all of us. We must stand up, speak out and defend what is right. Human rights are not a suggestion. They are the foundation of our Constitution. They are the promise of 1994. And they are under threat. Operation Dudula together with March and March are attacking our democratic values, our hard-won freedoms and the rule of law. If groups like Seri, Helen Suzman Foundation and the South African Human Rights Commission are silenced, who will speak up when your rights are next in line? We must not allow anger to be weaponised against the wrong people. It is time to ask better questions. Why are our clinics underresourced in the first place? Why are there not enough trained healthcare workers? Why is the housing backlog growing year after year? And why are we not holding local councillors and officials to account for this? Foreign nationals didn't fail to maintain your community's water infrastructure. They didn't loot public funds meant for housing and healthcare. They didn't shut down your clinic or redirect its budget. That was your government. South Africa is at a crossroads and we can continue being played, turning on each other in frustration. We must start organising, demanding better services, transparent leadership and a government that serves everyone who lives here.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Communities call for stricter measures for marriages between locals and foreign nationals
Residents of Greater Lejweleputswa District Municipality called for stricter measures to ascertain the authenticity of marriages between foreign nationals and South Africans. Image: Emma Bauso/pexels At the recent public hearings on the Marriage Bill held at the Toronto Recreation Centre in Welkom, residents of the Greater Lejweleputswa District Municipality voiced their concerns over the rise of marriages of convenience between foreign nationals and South Africans. This was the second of three public hearings in the Free State, where community members presented a robust call for stricter measures to verify the authenticity of marriages, fearing that fraudulent entries could compromise the integrity of the national register. Participants echoed a collective apprehension regarding the troubling trend of marriages that, they argued, are not motivated by genuine intentions. "It is essential that the Bill outlines a clear process to distinguish authentic unions from those undermined by nefarious motives," said one attendee. The committee has previously heard similar concerns in other provinces and has urged the Department of Home Affairs to take immediate action to investigate these claims comprehensively. In addition to concerns over fraudulent marriages, the hearings have also revealed a variety of differing opinions regarding the alignment of the Marriage Bill with the South African Constitution. Some participants expressed that integrating different marriage laws into a single statute may infringe upon the constitutional right to choose. When it came to polygamous marriages, the views proved equally divided. Advocates for polygamy highlighted its historical significance within African communities, asserting that formal recognition within the legal framework could provide much-needed certainty. Conversely, opponents raised concerns over sustainability and potential conflicts, particularly regarding property rights, and called for a ban on such arrangements. The discussion also ventured into the contentious issue of same-sex marriages, with representatives from various faith-based organisations opposing the recognition of these unions based on religious teachings. However, proponents of same-sex marriage adamantly argued for the constitutional rights of all citizens to love and marry whomever they choose. The committee expressed disappointment over instances of perceived discrimination against same-sex couples, reiterating the importance of protecting the Constitutional rights of every South African. Another area of debate focused on the legal age of consent, with some participants supporting the established threshold of 18 years, while others contended that younger individuals should complete their educational pathways before entering marriage. Marriage officers also raised a significant concern about potential repercussions they might face should they refuse to solemnise marriages that conflict with their personal beliefs. Many called for clearly defined protections for these officers, as well as a comprehensive rollout plan for the training of new marriage officers in alignment with the provisions of the Bill. With the final hearings on the Marriage Bill set to take place today in the Thabo Mofutsanyane District Municipality, the committee has urged residents to attend and share their insights concerning this pivotal legislation. IOL
IOL News
6 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Restoring faith: addressing the crisis in the South African Police Service
Over time, trust in the SAPS has diminished, primarily due to inadequacies in addressing critical crime-related issues, which have often been handled ineffectively or unsatisfactorily, says the writer. Image: Armand Hough THE transformation of the South African Police Service (SAPS) was predicated on the aspiration to reshape the policing paradigm in alignment with its new identity as a service-oriented institution. At its inception, a segment of the South African populace extended their support to the SAPS, seeking a reformed policing approach consistent with the Bill of Rights enshrined in the national constitution. However, over time, trust in the SAPS has diminished, primarily due to inadequacies in addressing critical crime-related issues, which have often been handled ineffectively or unsatisfactorily. The discourse surrounding service delivery within SAPS has increasingly infiltrated community conversations. In regions where service delivery is perceived as satisfactory, there exists a collaborative synergy between communities and SAPS, reflecting the principles of community partnership. Conversely, in areas plagued by high rates of crime and criminal behaviour, residents and discontented business owners have begun to lose faith in SAPS's capacity to fulfil its constitutional mandate of ensuring the safety and security of citizens. This erosion of trust highlights the challenges faced by SAPS in meeting its obligations and underscores the need for ongoing evaluation and reform within the policing framework. The transformation of the SAPS represents a significant shift in the approach to policing within the country, grounded in the aspiration to create a service-oriented law enforcement agency. 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 Next Stay Close ✕ This transformation was envisioned as a means to align policing practices with democratic principles, specifically those articulated in the Bill of Rights of the South African Constitution. Upon its inception, a considerable portion of the South African population expressed optimism for this reformed police service, perceiving it as an opportunity for the SAPS to contribute positively to societal safety and justice. However, as time has progressed, public trust in the SAPS has considerably eroded. This decline can be attributed to a range of factors, notably the persistent inadequacies in addressing crime-related issues. Many incidents of violent crime, corruption, and misconduct have been reported, wherein the responses from SAPS have often been perceived as ineffective or lacking accountability. Such failures have fostered a growing disillusionment among citizens who had initially supported the reformed mandate of the service. Service delivery by the SAPS has become a prevalent topic of discussion within households and communities across various regions. In neighbourhoods where residents experience a satisfactory level of service delivery, a sense of collaboration emerges between the community and the police. This partnership is often manifested through community policing initiatives that emphasise proactive engagement, crime prevention strategies, and mutual accountability. In these instances, positive relationships can lead to increased trust and a more cooperative environment, fostering a sense of safety and security. In stark contrast, in areas characterised by high crime rates and pervasive criminality, residents and local business owners express significant dissatisfaction with the SAPS. As crime continues to disrupt their daily lives and unaddressed issues escalate, the erosion of trust becomes pronounced. Community members often report feelings of vulnerability and frustration, leading to a widespread belief that SAPS is failing to uphold its fundamental constitutional mandate of safeguarding citizens. This growing disconnect has the potential to create a cycle of mistrust, where communities become increasingly disengaged from collaborative efforts with law enforcement, thereby exacerbating the challenges faced by the SAPS. The South African policing system is currently grappling with a profound legitimacy crisis, a reality starkly highlighted by a recent survey reported by IOL on July 15, 2025. This survey reveals that a mere 22% of South Africans express confidence in the SAPS, a statistic that starkly underscores the growing chasm of trust between the public and the institutions sworn to safeguard their well-being. Such disillusionment is not unexpected, particularly in light of persistent allegations of corruption, inadequate service delivery and an alarming inability to respond effectively to the surge in criminal activities. For a significant portion of the population, their interactions with law enforcement are often characterised by feelings of frustration, fear or even neglect rather than the intended sense of protection. This pervasive sentiment necessitates a critical re-evaluation of the SAPS. Rooting out corruption and rebuilding ethical foundations in the SAPS In recent years, the SAPS has faced mounting scrutiny over its integrity and operational efficacy. The pervasive issue of internal corruption has eroded public trust which has positioned SAPS not as a protector but as a source of mistrust within local communities in South Africa. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach aimed at fostering accountability and ethical conduct among police officers. One promising solution is the establishment of a Special Anti-Corruption Police Tribunal specifically designed to expedite the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases involving SAPS personnel. This tribunal would operate independently, thereby reinforcing public confidence in the integrity of the criminal justice processes when it comes to police misconduct. Additionally, the launch of a "Clean Badge" campaign could encourage officers to voluntarily commit to integrity pledges with external panels carrying out rigorous vetting processes. Such measures not only promote a culture of accountability but also empower officers who are dedicated to upholding ethical standards. Equally essential is the introduction of a comprehensive whistleblower protection and reward program within SAPS. By safeguarding those who report corruption or unethical behaviour, the police service can create an environment where integrity is valued and encouraged rather than overlooked. Modernising policing infrastructure and digital systems Beyond ethical issues, SAPS grapples with significant operational challenges stemming from resource shortages and outdated technology. The introduction of a robust digital transformation strategy is critical in addressing these challenges. Allocating budget resources towards modern technologies such as e-dockets, predictive policing software and integrated CCTV systems can significantly enhance operational efficiency. To further streamline operations, non-core functions including fleet maintenance, IT infrastructure and call centre operations should be outsourced to reputable service providers. This strategy not only enhances efficiency but also mitigates risks associated with mismanagement of resources. A centralised SAPS performance dashboard should be made accessible to the public which could enhance transparency by displaying critical metrics such as arrest/conviction rates and response times, thus holding the police accountable to the communities they serve. Rebuilding community-police relations through participatory policing A critical challenge facing SAPS is the perception that it operates as an occupying force rather than as a community partner. Strengthening community-police relations is paramount for restoring public confidence. Initiatives such as the introduction of Community Safety Councils in each municipality can foster collaboration between SAPS, Community Policing Forums (CPFs), local NGOs and school safety representatives. These councils should have the authority to co-design local safety plans by ensuring that community voices are heard and integrated into policing strategies. Expanding community constable programs by recruiting vetted youth from local populations coupled with training in human rights, conflict resolution and crime prevention can foster trust and cooperation between the police and the communities. Furthermore, implementing financial incentives for officers dedicated to long-term service in high-crime areas can foster stability and foster healthier community relationships. Concluding remarks The erosion of public confidence in the South African Police Service (SAPS) transcends the realm of policing as it represents a profound national crisis that threatens the foundational pillars of safety, justice and the rule of law. A mere 22% of the population expresses trust in the police which indicates that over three-quarters of South Africans feel vulnerable and marginalised. This disconcerting reality is not just a challenge but a crisis that demands urgent attention. Restoring faith in SAPS necessitates far more than changes such as new uniforms or catchy slogans, it calls for a bold vision characterised by transformative leadership and substantial structural reforms. It is imperative to recommit to principles of ethical, community-oriented policing which places the public at the heart of law enforcement efforts. Professor Nirmala Gopal Image: File Professor Nirmala Gopal is an academic leader: School of Applied Human Science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media. THE POST
The Star
21-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
The water, energy, food nexus: A catalyst for equitable growth and resilient futures
The interdependence of water, energy, and food systems is fundamental to our ability to secure essential services, stimulate economic growth, and safeguard vulnerable communities. This nexus holds particular significance for South Africa and the broader Global South, where water scarcity, energy instability, and food insecurity are not only prevalent but deeply interconnected, each problem intensifying the others. According to the United Nations, the relationship between water resources and climate change is critical, 'Extreme weather events are making water more scarce, more unpredictable, more polluted - or all three.' Unreliable power sources disrupt the sanitation process to such an extent that untreated sewage flows into water bodies, increasing the cost of water purification for bulk service providers. Water pollution severely impacts human health and can even be fatal. It can lead to the contamination of drinking water, which contributes to waterborne illnesses. Additionally, water pollution affects ecosystems, leading to phenomena like eutrophication. Toxic elements dissolved in water can also enter the human food chain through fish and other aquatic organisms. The persistent failure of municipalities to adequately maintain and expand their energy and water infrastructure is creating a multifaceted crisis that threatens the very foundation of water, energy, and food security throughout South Africa. This critical neglect not only jeopardises the availability and quality of these essential resources but also undermines the right to water, a fundamental human right enshrined in the South African Constitution. As urban centres like Johannesburg grapple with soaring populations and increasing demand, the strained infrastructure leads to severe water shortages, with communities experiencing days without reliable access to water. This distressing reality is further compounded by inconsistent energy supply, which disrupts daily life and economic activities. Agricultural productivity declines as farmers struggle with unreliable irrigation, threatening food security and driving up prices for consumers. Vulnerable communities, particularly those already dealing with socio-economic disadvantages, bear the brunt of these challenges, intensifying existing inequalities and forestalling opportunities for growth and development. Considering this pressing situation, local governments must prioritise substantial investments in infrastructure development and maintenance. By doing so, they can ensure equitable access to these vital resources for all citizens, safeguard their constitutional rights, and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. This scenario underscores the urgent need for action as these challenges become more pronounced and irreversible. 2. Energy, Water & Food: The Equitable Impacts Energy Shortages Multiply Water Risk The frequent occurrence of intermittent electricity supply severely disrupts water delivery systems, leading to inefficiencies and failures in public health and agricultural performance. Numerous studies have confirmed that power outages at crucial water pumps and treatment facilities degrade service quality, jeopardising public health, agricultural yields, disrupting economic activity and overall environmental quality. Food Production Depends on Both Water and Energy Agriculture is the largest consumer of water, utilising over 70% of South Africa's freshwater resources. Studies examining the food-energy-water nexus across Africa reveal that employing efficient irrigation technologies, such as solar-powered drip irrigation, can significantly increase agricultural yields. These advancements not only enhance income and improve nutrition but also bolster climate resilience by adapting to changing environmental conditions. Jobs and Poverty Alleviation The convergence of the water-energy-food nexus is a powerful driver of local economies. For instance, pumped-storage hydropower schemes implemented in Southern Africa offer reliable base-load power and ensure a stable irrigation water supply. These initiatives also create crucial job opportunities in technical and maintenance roles, benefiting rural communities economically. Additionally, various solar water pump programs across Africa have successfully provided thousands of jobs while ensuring climate-resilient access to water resources, contributing to poverty alleviation and sustainable development. In summary, addressing the interconnected challenges of water, energy, and food systems is essential for fostering equitable growth and building resilient futures for all communities. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, we can harness the potential of the nexus to create sustainable pathways for development. 3. Global South Case Studies: Evidence in Action Morocco's Integrated Approach Morocco adopts an innovative and comprehensive strategy that integrates desalination plants, dam reservoirs, agricultural policies, and a vast 1,400 km renewable energy pipeline. This holistic approach prioritises the allocation of desalinated water specifically for urban centres while optimising the water available from dam reserves for agricultural purposes. By linking water, energy, and food policies, Morocco achieves significant improvements in resource management and sustainability, creating a transformative impact on both urban and rural communities ( Senegal's Mamelles Plant The Mamelles desalination facility in Senegal represents a €200 million investment in infrastructure that taps into a diverse energy mix, enabling it to generate up to 100,000 cubic meters of freshwater each day for the bustling city of Dakar. This state-of-the-art facility not only addresses critical urban water scarcity, but it also fosters economic stability by providing steady job opportunities for residents in its operation and maintenance ( Namibia's Rural Solar Plant In Namibia, the Bethanie brackish groundwater plant showcases a pioneering effort in renewable energy deployment by operating entirely on solar power. By supplying 100% of the water needs for a rural town, it has effectively replaced traditional diesel pumps, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. Moreover, this initiative has created local maintenance jobs, empowering community members and enhancing their skills in sustainable technologies ( African Solar-Pump Initiatives Under the leadership of Innovation: Africa, a series of impactful initiatives have introduced solar-powered pumping systems that deliver an impressive 30 000 litres of water per day to villages, serving populations of up to 10,000 people each. Beyond merely providing water, these projects include comprehensive training programs for residents to facilitate the installation and maintenance of these systems, ensuring the development of essential skills within the community and fostering local self-sufficiency ( 4. Reforming Policy for the Nexus Era Despite the proven success of these initiatives, South Africa - and a significant portion of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region - continues to grapple with systemic challenges stemming from fragmented governance structures: - Various ministries tend to operate in silos, leading to inefficiencies; for example, the energy sector remains heavily reliant on coal, while the water sector is hindered by inconsistent electricity supply. Additionally, persistent agricultural practices have not been updated to meet the realities of climate change and resource scarcity. - The lack of energy efficiency as a key performance indicator (KPI) within water utilities hampers progress; many facilities lack the necessary metered data that would inform strategies for enhancing operational efficiency and resource conservation. - Policies governing agriculture often neglect the intertwined costs associated with water and energy, putting the food sector at risk amid ongoing drought conditions and frequent power outages. Recommendations from the Association of Water and Sanitation Institutions of South Africa (Awsisa): - Nexus-Aligned Infrastructure Planning: Implement mandatory impact assessments that evaluate the interconnected consequences for water, energy, and food systems for all major infrastructure projects. - Integrated Budgeting and Policy Platforms: Promote collaboration between water, energy, and agriculture departments to co-design investments and regulatory frameworks that ensure cohesive strategies across sectors. - Energy-Efficient Water Systems: Create incentives for utilities to adopt advanced pump optimisation technologies, which can yield energy savings of up to 40% and reduce operational costs. - Resilient Energy Mix: Advocate for the implementation of diverse energy solutions, such as pumped-storage systems (like those in Ingula and Drakensberg) and renewable energy-supported water treatment processes, explore hydropower projects with more vigour, along with innovative solar irrigation models. - Participatory Local Models: Encourage the development of community-managed hybrid water systems that utilise both solar and diesel power, fostering local enterprise development and embedding skills within the community to enhance long-term resilience and independence. 5. Awsisa's Commitment & Call to Action Awsisa is taking significant strides towards a sustainable future: - We are excited to announce a dedicated Nexus stream at our Dialogue taking place from November 9–12, 2025. This event will spotlight innovative integrated solutions and promote youth enterprise initiatives that harness the potential of the water-energy-food nexus for sustainable development. - In our efforts to enhance the capabilities of utilities, we will explore the development of comprehensive guidebooks and provide targeted capacity-building programs focused on nexus performance metrics. These resources will equip utilities with the necessary tools to track and improve their performance across water, energy, and food systems. - Our commitment extends to cross-sector advocacy, to embed nexus principles into critical areas such as financing, urban planning, and rural development. By fostering collaboration among sectors, we can create a more integrated approach to resource management. We invite the following stakeholders to join us in this transformative journey: - Governments are encouraged to pilot nexus-aligned "water-energy-food zones" in vulnerable districts, creating resilient communities that optimise resource use while addressing local challenges. - Utilities and municipalities are called upon to invest in advanced metering systems and pursue energy-water efficiency initiatives that will not only reduce costs but also enhance service delivery and sustainability. - The private sector and financiers are urged to support scalable, community-led water-energy ventures. Investment in such initiatives can drive economic opportunities and empower rural communities to take charge of their resources. - Academics and researchers have an essential role in continuously evaluating and refining nexus approaches. Their insights can inform evidence-based policies and practices that foster sustainable development. Conclusion: A Transformative Opportunity The water–energy–food nexus transcends its role as merely an analytical tool; it represents a vital pathway towards climate resilience, equitable service delivery, economic opportunities, and dignified livelihoods. Without effective integration of these systems, we risk collapse under mounting pressures, leading to spiralling costs that place an undue burden on society. Intermittent power supply is not just an energy crisis; it also poses serious threats to water security, public health, economic growth, and food availability. This opinion piece is intended as a call to action: let us dismantle the silos separating our sectors, build robust cross-sectoral infrastructure, and empower our communities to thrive. Every litre of water, every kilowatt of energy, and every hectare of land must be valued and utilised to their fullest potential. For constructive debates, strategic partnerships, and collective action, join AWSISA in shaping a resilient future based on the principles of the nexus.
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
SASSA clarifies social grant review process: No payments suspended, CEO says
SASSA CEO Themba Motlou says no social grant payments have been suspended amid ongoing reviews, urging beneficiaries to update their details to ensure continued support and prevent fraud. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) CEO Themba Motlou, says the agency is undertaking an important review process of social grants to ensure that only eligible beneficiaries continue to receive support. This comes after growing public concern and confusion over grant payments. Motlou emphasised that SASSA's mandate, derived from the South African Constitution and the SASSA Act, is to administer and manage social grants to those who qualify. Motlou was briefing the media on Monday to address the recent public outcry, clarifying that no social grant payments have been suspended or halted, and all approved grants remain valid. He explained that the reviews are a legal requirement under Section 14(5) of the Social Assistance Act, which obliges beneficiaries to notify SASSA of any significant changes in their financial or personal circumstances. ''In April 2025, the agency announced scheduled payment delays for targeted social grant beneficiaries who are required to visit local offices to confirm changes in their financial circumstances and update personal details. ''This step was taken following collaboration with registered Credit Bureaus, which flagged approximately 210,000 beneficiaries as receiving income that had not been truthfully disclosed,'' said Sassa in a statement. The agency added that this initiative had attracted public commentary and misrepresentation from various groups, but it is aimed at curbing fraud and ensuring eligibility. "Beneficiaries are notified when their grants are due for review, and we encourage full cooperation to avoid any disruptions," Motlou said. He added that targeted reviews have been introduced for those whose circumstances may have changed, ensuring that grants are paid only to those still eligible. He also stressed that the review process is crucial for protecting the integrity of the social assistance program and public funds.
