Let’s wrap up some of the top stories happening in South Africa this week.
PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA SIGNS NHI BILL INTO LAW
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the significance of the National Health Insurance (NHI) in granting equitable access to healthcare services and rectifying disparities.
During the signing of the NHI Bill into law on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa highlighted its role in addressing the fragmented and unsustainable nature of healthcare provision in the country. He humorously remarked that he had “finally found his pen” to sign the long-awaited Bill.
Emphasizing the NHI’s importance in tackling poverty, President Ramaphosa noted that rising healthcare costs impoverish families, while NHI coverage alleviates financial burdens, freeing up resources for essential needs.
He expressed confidence that the NHI would enhance healthcare affordability, streamline payment systems, and optimize resource allocation, marking a pivotal moment in South Africa’s pursuit of a fairer society.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE RISES IN SOUTH AFRICA
Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey reveals a concerning uptick in unemployment, with 8.2 million individuals without jobs in the first quarter of 2024. The official unemployment rate climbed to 32.9%, marking an increase of 0.8 percentage points compared to the previous quarter.
While the number of employed persons saw a modest rise to 16.7 million, informal sector employment experienced a decline of 100,000. Notably, the trade and manufacturing sectors contributed to net employment growth, while losses were observed in construction and finance.
KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Northern Cape recorded employment gains, while Western Cape and North West saw decreases. Youth unemployment remains a critical issue, with 4.9 million young individuals without jobs.
SEARCH FOR SURVIVORS CONTINUES IN GEORGE BUILDING COLLAPSE: 33 CONFIRMED DEAD
Efforts to locate survivors and complete operations at the site of the George building collapse are ongoing, with officials aiming to conclude by Friday. The death toll stands at 33, with no change reported since Thursday afternoon. Tragically, 19 individuals remain unaccounted for following the collapse of the multi-storey building on Monday.
Of the 81 workers trapped, 12 are hospitalized, while 47 victims have been identified by their families. As investigations proceed, Police Minister Bheki Cele urges respect and space for the affected families during this challenging time.
ARRESTS MADE IN CONNECTION WITH SHOOTING OF FIVE-YEAR-OLD IN SOSHANGUVE
Two suspects have been apprehended in connection with the tragic shooting of five-year-old Ditebogo Junior Phalane during a car hijacking in Soshanguve block UU last week. Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni confirmed the arrests this morning.
The incident occurred when armed men hijacked Ditebogo’s father outside their Soshanguve home. Ditebogo, welcoming his father home, was caught in the crossfire and fatally wounded. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at Botshilong Hospital.
Police swiftly launched a manhunt, resulting in the arrest of two suspects in Soshanguve, both found in possession of unlicensed firearms. One firearm has been linked to a 2023 car hijacking in Akasia.
Efforts to locate a third suspect proved unsuccessful, but police discovered a vehicle reportedly stolen in Mabopane, believed to have been used during the shooting.
The investigation has uncovered a firearm believed to be connected to the shooting. While one suspect is South African, others are believed to be foreign nationals.
Police Minister Bheki Cele, joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Tshwane Mayor Cilliers Brink, has visited the Phalane family, pledging to address crime in the area and ensure justice for Ditebogo.
SOUTH AFRICAN CITIZENS ABROAD TO VOTE THIS WEEK
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has provided clarity on the voting process for South African citizens residing abroad, easing concerns for those unfamiliar with overseas voting procedures. Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo announced that voting for citizens living outside the country will commence on May 17, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the election timetable. While nine countries will hold voting on Friday, the remaining 102 will do so on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
Notably, London, with an anticipated voter count of 24,194, will extend its voting period to May 18 and 19, 2024. Mamabolo highlighted that the international voters’ roll comprises 56,698 voters, with an expected total voter turnout of 76,580, facilitated by 20,886 VEC10 notifications. Ensuring smooth operations, the IEC has dispatched election materials to all 111 foreign missions worldwide, including ballot papers, voting booths, and ballot boxes. Voting stations will be open from 07:00 am to 19:00 pm to accommodate the voting rights of 76,580 overseas voters in South Africa’s 2024 National Elections.
NO BAIL FOR SUSPECTS IN AKA AND TIBZ MURDER CASE
In a significant development, the Durban Magistrate’s Court handed down its judgment on the bail application of five suspects implicated in the murder case of Kiernan Forbes (AKA) and Tebello Motsoane (Tibz). The court ruled against granting bail to the accused individuals. These suspects are accused of involvement in the killings of AKA and Tibz, which took place in Durban, Florida, in 2023.
CITY OF JOBURG ANNOUNCES R83.1 BILLION BUDGET TO FOCUS ON INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES
The City of Johannesburg has unveiled its budget of R83.1 billion for the upcoming 2024-2025 financial year, emphasizing infrastructure development and service delivery. Presented by Member of the Mayoral Committee for Finance, Dada Morero, the budget prioritizes addressing energy and crime challenges while accelerating essential service delivery.
Notably, R46 billion is allocated to the Sustainable Services Cluster for housing infrastructure and City Power initiatives. The health department sees a 4.8% increase in its operating budget, amounting to R1.5 billion, underlining the city’s commitment to inclusive development and addressing current deficiencies.
THE BELA BILL HAS BEEN PASSED IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
The National Assembly has passed the controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill (BELA Bill) during its final sitting for the sixth administration. This follows the National Council of Provinces’ adoption of the bill earlier in the week. The BELA Bill introduces several changes to the South African Schools Act of 1996, including transferring control of language policies and curriculums to the Education Department. The bill has sparked significant debate among MPs and stakeholders.
E-JOBURG SELF-HELP PORTAL ENABLES RESIDENTS TO SUBMIT METER READINGS
The City of Johannesburg introduces a new service allowing residents to submit their water and electricity meter readings through the e-Joburg self-help portal. This initiative aims to alleviate customer frustrations amidst the city’s billing crisis, addressing concerns over high bills. Nkosana Lekotjolo of the City highlights that residents can now provide meter readings via the self-help website, walk-in centers, call centers, or regional email addresses.
Additionally, residents are urged to promptly address sudden increases in water bills by seeking professional assessment for potential leaks.
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