Covid-19 related guidelines and regulations: https://www.gov.za/coronavirus/guidelines.
Covid-19 Directives and notices relating to legal practitioners: http://www.derebus.org.za/directives-covid-19/ / https://lpc.org.za/
Contents
- AVIATION 2
- COMMUNICATIONS 2
- CONFIRMED CASES 2
- CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE 3
- CULTURAL AFFAIRS 4
- EDUCATION 4
- EMPLOYMENT LAW 5
- FINANCIAL LAW 6
- LAND AND PROPERTY LAW 6
- LIQUOR LAW 6
- LOCAL GOVERNMENT 7
- LOCKDOWN REGULATIONS 7
- MEDICAL LAW 7
- PERSONS AND FAMILY LAW 8
- SAFETY AND SECURITY 9
- TRADE AND INDUSTRY 9
- TRANSPORTATION 9
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AVIATION
Media Statement
SA Government News Agency. Pilots, drone owners urged to comply with COVID-19 regulations.
2020 Apr 18 SA News
“Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has urged aviators to comply with the regulations and directions of the Disaster Management Act aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. In a statement on Saturday, the Minister appealed particularly to pilots and drone owners to comply with the regulations put in place as part of South Africa’s COVID-19 national lockdown. The Minister’s plea follows reports of a surge in the number of applications for permission to fly remotely-piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), commonly referred to as drones. “The SA Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) had also received a handful of requests from small private aircraft owners, requesting permission to fly their aircraft for various business-related activities, including farm owners wanting to fly into various provinces to check on operations,” said Mbalula.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/pilots-drone-owners-urged-comply-covid-19-regulations
COMMUNICATIONS
Media Release
Department of Communications. Communications and Digital Technologies congratulates winners of the 2020 Radio Awards. 19 April 2020.
“The Ministry of Communications of Communications and Digital Technologies congratulates all finalists and winners of the 2020 Radio Awards. These awards serve as an acknowledgement of the strides made by entrants in the respective categories. More than 80 award winners were celebrated across 25 categories this weekend. These radio awards come at the time when the country and the world is seized with the fight against the deadly coronavirus. Community and commercial radio stations have responded positively to the clarion call made by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies for broadcasting services licencees to disseminate, in all official languages, information that will assist in halting the spread of COVID-19 and flattening the curve.”
CONFIRMED CASES
Media Releases
Department of Health. Minister Zweli Mkhize confirms total of 2 783 cases of Coronavirus COVID-19. 17 April 2020.
“As at today, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Africa is 2 783. The total number of tests conducted to date is 100 827.
The provincial breakdown is as follows:
- Gauteng: 1018;
- Western Cape: 717;
- Kwazulu – Natal: 591;
- Eastern Cape: 246;
- Free State: 100;
- Limpopo: 26;
- North West: 24;
- Mpumalanga: 23;
- Northern Cape: 16; and
- Unallocated: 22.
Today we regrettably report 2 new COVID-19 related deaths. Both deceased are from the Western Cape. This increases the total number of deaths to 50. We convey our condolences to the families and also appreciate the health workers who were treating the deceased patients.”
Department of Health. Minister Zweli Mkhize confirms total of 3 034 cases of Coronavirus COVID-19. 18 April 2020.
“We are saddened to report 2 new COVID-19 related deaths. The two deceased are from the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. This increases the total number of deaths to 52. We convey our condolences to the families and also appreciate the health workers who were treating the deceased patients.
- Gauteng: 1101;
- Western Cape: 836;
- KwaZulu – Natal: 604;
- Eastern Cape: 270;
- Free State: 100;
- Limpopo: 26;
- North West: 24;
- Mpumalanga: 25;
- Northern Cape: 16; and
- Unallocated: 32.
The majority of the decease patients have been elderly people and individuals who had comorbidities. This is consistent with the trends that we have seen worldwide. We therefore urge these vulnerable groups to adhere to their treatment regimens and maximise on staying at home.”
Department of Health. Minister Zweli Mkhize confirms total of 3 158 cases of Coronavirus COVID-19. 19 April 2020.
“As at today, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Africa is 3 158. The total number of tests conducted to date is 114 711. The provincial breakdown is as follows:
- Gauteng: 1148;
- Western Cape: 868;
- Kwazulu – Natal: 617;
- Eastern Cape: 293;
- Free State: 100;
- Limpopo: 27;
- North West: 24;
- Mpumalanga: 23;
- Northern Cape16; and
- Unallocated: 42.
Today we regrettably report 2 more COVID-19 related deaths. Similar to yesterday, these are from KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. This brings the total death toll to 54 today.”
https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-zweli-mkhize-confirms-total-3-158-cases-coronavirus-covid-19-19-apr-2020-0000
Western Cape Office of the Premier. Premier Alan Winde update on Coronavirus COVID-19. 17 April 2020.
“As of 00h01 on 17 April, the Western Cape has recorded 743 confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection.
- Total confirmed COVID-19 cases: 743;
- Total recoveries: 205;
- Total deaths: 13;
- Total active cases (currently infected patients): 525;
- Patients in hospital: 33 with 16 in ICU; and
- Total tests conducted to date: 13 752.
Last night, Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize officially announced a further six deaths that have occurred in the Western Cape over the past few days, bringing the total deaths in the province to 13. The six are all women, aged 43, 51, 56, 59, 68 and 86. We send our condolences to all of their loved ones at this difficult time.”
https://www.gov.za/speeches/premier-alan-winde-update-coronavirus-covid-19-17-apr-2020-0000
Western Cape Provincial Government. Western Cape updates on Coronavirus COVID-19 cases. 19 April 2020.
“As of 17h00 on 18 April, the Western Cape has recorded 866 confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection.
- Total confirmed COVID-19 cases: 866;
- Total recoveries: 215;
- Total deaths: 16;
- Total active cases (currently infected patients): 635;
- Patients in hospital: 38 with 12 in ICU; and
- Total tests conducted: 16 499.
Going forward, the data will be reported as at 17h00 on the previous day, rather than at midnight in order to allow more time to prepare the daily reports. The Western Cape has recorded one more death- a 45-year old male, bringing the total deaths in the province to 16.”
https://www.gov.za/speeches/western-cape-updates-coronavirus-covid-19-cases-19-apr-2020-0000
CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE
Media Releases
Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane sends condolences to Zitho family. 19 April 2020.
“The Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane wishes to send her condolences to the family and friends of a 5-year old boy, Mzwandile Zitho, whose naked body was found just hours after he had been reported missing at the Orange Farm police station on Tuesday, 15 April. Mzwandile’s grandmother Nompumelelo Zitho, (63) only saw her grandson around 11:00 on Wednesday, 14 April. She said, due to the lockdown, she did not allow Mzwandile to play with other children on the streets. His body was discovered next to a fridge at a house in Extension 4, Orange Farm, inside a tavern. The boy had a string tied around his neck and a handkerchief tied around his ankle. The Minister commends the Police for the discovery and swift arrest of a couple aged 29 and 30 in Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg, who are the owners of the establishment where the body was found. The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.”
Gauteng Social Development. MECs Panyaza Lesufi and Faith Mazibuko visit families of murdered children during Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown, 18 Apr. 17 April 2020.
“The Gauteng Social Development Acting MEC Panyaza Lesufi, and MEC for Community Safety Faith Mazibuko, will tomorrow, 18 April 2020, visit families of two children who were recently brutally murdered in Ivory park and Orange Farm respectively. It is alleged that a 11-year old boy went missing on Friday, 10 April 2020. Subsequently,the family reported him missing at the local police station. Grievously, the said boy Child was found on Sunday, 12 April 2020 mercilessly murdered in a bush at Mayibuye, Rabie Ridge. On the other case, a 5-year old body was found dead, naked and lying on the floor inside Ekasi Tarven, on 15 April 2020.”
Parliament of South Africa. Parliament receives report from Police and IPID on Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown. 17 April 2020.
“The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson, has called a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Police to receive a report from the South African Police Service (Saps) and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) on the role of the security services during the lockdown and to consider various issues of concern surrounding the management of lockdown. The prime issue to be considered is the management and heavy-handedness of security forces during the lockdown. “In welcoming the announcement of the lockdown, the committee emphasised the supremacy of the law and that the declaration of the lockdown did not mean the suspension of the Constitution. Thus, the law ought to be respected at all times, more especially by officers of the law,” Ms Joemat-Pettersson said.”
CULTURAL AFFAIRS
Media Release
Pan South African Language Board. Pan South African Language Board welcomes addition of isiZulu during Coronavirus COVID-19 media briefing. 17 April 2020.
“The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) welcomes the addition of isiZulu by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma in her address to the nation during the National Command Council media briefing held yesterday, 16 April 2020. “We are very pleased that Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has heeded the call to address South Africans in languages they understand. The addition of indigenous languages during media briefings will certainly expand the reach of government’s communication to many linguistic communities and will have a positive impact in the responsiveness of people to government messages” said PanSALB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Bongumenzi Mpungose.”
EDUCATION
Government Gazettes
Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002
Directive issued by Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation in terms of Regulation 10(8) of the Regulations made under Section 27(2) of the Act: Measures to prevent and combat the spread of COVID-19. The purpose of this directive is to:
a) prescribe temporary measures to manage the impact of the covid-19 lockdown on the functionality of higher education institutions;
b) ensure the procurement and delivery of essential goods and services for higher education institutions.
RGN468 GG 43237 p3 17Apr2020
http://www.gpwonline.co.za/Gazettes/Gazettes/43237_17-04_HighEduTrain.pdf
Higher Education Act 101 of 1997
Extension dates for the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) Institutions (Public and Private Higher Education Institutions as well as Public Colleges) under the auspices of the Department of Higher Education and Training. Notice by Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation in accordance with section 41(2) and section 57(2) of the Higher Education Act (Act No. 101 of 1997, as amended) as well as section 25(3) of the Continuing Education and Training Act (Act No. 16 of 2006) read with regulation 10(8)(a) and (c) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002: Regulations relating to COVID -19 (Government Notice R398 of 2020 published in Government Gazette No. 43107 of 18 March 2020).
RGN467 GG 43236 p3 17Apr2020
http://www.gpwonline.co.za/Gazettes/Gazettes/43236_17-04_HighEduTrain.pdf
Media Releases
Department of Basic Education. Basic Education condemns vandalism of 397 schools since Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown. 17 April 2020.
“The Department of Basic Education is extremely concerned that 397 schools have been vandalized around the country since the COVID-19 lockdown started.
- Mpumalanga: 73;
- Gauteng: 67;
- Western Cape: 57;
- North West: 55;
- Northern Cape: 39;
- KwaZulu-Natal: 34;
- Limpopo: 30;
- Eastern Cape: 26; and
- Free State: 16.
Total number of schools vandalised: 397.”
Department of Basic Education. Basic Education postpones May/June exam rewrites due to Coronavirus COVID-19. 18 April 2020.
“The Department of Basic Education has postponed the May/June Amended Senior Certificate (old matric) and National Senior Certificate Examination. This is the matric examination which was to be written by more than 350,000 part-time candidates who include those who did not meet the pass requirements in the 2019 final exams as well as those who sought to rewrite to improve their marks. The Director-General of the Department of Basic Education Mr. Mathanzima Mweli has written a letter to the Heads of the Provincial Education Departments confirming the changes to the plan for the examinations.”
Western Cape Education. MEC Debbie Schäfer on launch of a new lesson planning platform. 17 April 2020.
“Today, I am very excited to announce the launch of a new lesson planning platform intended to assist teachers, parents and learners in this new era of @ home learning. In Part 1, 2 and 3 of our series on Quality Learning @ home, we looked at a variety of digital resources that are available for learning, what our Grade 12s can do to continue studying and how parents can encourage reading as a daily activity in their homes. Today, I would like to talk about the curriculum itself, and how we, as a Department are trying to ensure that we “keep up with the curriculum” as far as possible, despite the challenges we may face.”
EMPLOYMENT LAW
Government Gazette
Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995
South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council: Extension to non-parties of the COVID-19 Temporary Relief Scheme Benefits Collective Agreement. Binding on the other employers and employees in that Industry with effect from the date of publication until all obligations imposed on SARPBAC and the parties in relation to the COVID -19 TERS Scheme are completed.
RGN466 GG 43235 p3 17Apr2020
http://www.gpwonline.co.za/Gazettes/Gazettes/43235_17-04_Labour.pdf
Media Release
Department of Employment and Labour. Employment and Labour on closure of Western Cape shop due to contravening Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown regulations. 17 April 2020.
“The Department of Employment and Labour in the Western Cape today closed the doors of a major retailer in Cape Town. Pick n Pay, located in the Liberty Promenade Mall in Mitchells Plain, was closed today after the inspectorate found the store to be unsafe and in contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act no. 85 of 1993… Some of the contraventions included that the store did not have the proper risk assessment in place; there was a high influx of people in the store and the number of people in the store was not adequately managed; the store could not manage the sanitising of patrons on entry and social-distancing was not observed.”
FINANCIAL LAW
Media Release
Department of Arts and Culture. Sport, Arts and Culture on progress regarding the applications for Coronavirus COVID-19 relief fund. 17 April 2020.
“On 25 March 2020, Minister Nathi Mthethwa, deeply concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the livelihood of South Africans in the sporting and cultural sectors, announced a relief fund of R150 million. Indeed, the sector is among the hardest hit by the economic impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. The fund was set up to assist all athletes and arts practitioners, based on a set of criteria defined for each of the two sectors. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture put out a call for athletes (through their Federations) and individual artists to apply for relief, with a deadline of 6 April 2020… Sport applications were submitted through sporting federations, and the DSAC received over 300 applications. 6 independent panellists were appointed by Minister Nathi Mthethwa… Arts and culture applications: In total, more than 6, 000 applications were received.”
LAND AND PROPERTY LAW
Media Release
Department of Water and Sanitation. Minister Lindiwe Sisulu visits evicted community members in Khayelitsha, 19 Apr. 18 April 2020.
“The Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, will tomorrow, 19 April visit Empolweni community members who were recently evicted in the area. Minister Sisulu was also in Empolweni on Friday 17 April and made an undertaking that temporary shelters will be organized for the community in line with the court ruling, and that basic services such as water and ablution facilities will also be provided. On Friday the Western Cape High Court ruled in favour of the community that they could not be removed from the area during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
Government had issued a directive that during lockdown, no evictions should be executed, this message has been emphasized repeatedly.”
LIQUOR LAW
Media Releases
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs. MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube on arrest of suspect for manufacturing and selling counterfeit alcohol. 19 April 2020.
“During this period and beyond, we undertake to continue to work with stakeholders to strengthen the control and regulation of liquor through the KwaZulu-Natal Liquor Act. Through the KZN Liquor Board Authority – an entity under the department, will undertake awareness campaigns in order to educate communities about the Act and lockdown regulations. During this period, we have joined forces with law enforcement agencies and industry role players to clamp down on those flouting the regulations and any law of the country. Critically, we wish to commend law enforcement officers who arrested a suspect involved in the manufacturing, distribution and selling of counterfeit liquor at Illovu Township, South of Durban.”
The Presidency. Presidency on ban on sale of alcohol to remain in force during Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown. 17 April 2020.
“The Presidency has declined the request of the Gauteng Liquor Forum for its members to sell alcohol during the declared national state of disaster. The restriction on the sale of liquor will remain. The decision was communicated to the Forum’s attorneys on 17 April 2020 via the offices of the State Attorney. The President and government as a whole remain committed to financially supporting businesses in distress during this period. The President has carefully considered the representations made by the Gauteng Liquor Forum. These however have had to be weighed up against the imperative of all South African businesses and citizens to comply with the lockdown regulations, the health implications of consumption of alcohol and the priority to ensure social distancing during this principle. As such, alcohol is not considered an essential good or item. It is in fact considered a hindrance to the fight against the coronavirus.”
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Media Release
North West Finance, Economy and Enterprise Development. North West Treasury engages municipalities during Coronavirus COVID19 lockdown. 17 April 2020.
“Finance MEC Motlalepula Rosho has reiterated to municipalities that even though the country is in a declared State of Disaster by the President of the Republic, sound financial management and compliance to set out legislations remain a key priority. MEC Rosho has, supported by the Head of Department Mr. Ndlela Kunene and the Chief Director for Municipal Support, Ms. Linda Nengovhela, started engagements through virtual meetings with municipalities across the Province to address issues that are of key importance in this period.”
LOCKDOWN REGULATIONS
Media Releases
Department of Employment and Labour. Employment and Labour on closure of Western Cape shop due to contravening Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown regulations. 17 April 2020.
“The Department of Employment and Labour in the Western Cape today closed the doors of a major retailer in Cape Town. Pick n Pay, located in the Liberty Promenade Mall in Mitchells Plain, was closed today after the inspectorate found the store to be unsafe and in contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act no. 85 of 1993… Some of the contraventions included that the store did not have the proper risk assessment in place; there was a high influx of people in the store and the number of people in the store was not adequately managed; the store could not manage the sanitising of patrons on entry and social-distancing was not observed.”
South African Police Service. Minister Bheki Cele assesses enforcement measures and public adherence to Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown regulations. 19 April 2020.
“Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele and his Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale on Friday, 17 April 2020 engaged with the management of the South African Police Service following the ministerial visits to provinces to assess enforcement measures and adherence by the public to the nationwide covid-19 lockdown regulations. The engagement culminated in a joint statement by the Ministry of Police and the SAPS Management, expressing gratitude to the members of the South African Police Service, South African Defence Force, Metro Police Departments and other law enforcement agencies, for their unwavering commitment and resilience in support of government’s efforts to combat the COVID-19 global pandemic.”
MEDICAL LAW
Media Releases
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs. MEC Dube-Ncube launches the Coronavirus COVID-19 mass home screening and testing campaign in Uthukela, 18 Apr. 17 April 2020.
“Following the official provincial launch of the mass home screening and testing by the KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala on Thursday this week, all MEC have been required to advance the same strategy in their respective districts where they are champions. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Nomusa Dube-Ncube who is also the Cabinet Operation Sukuma Sakhe uThukela District Champion will, on Saturday, 18 April 2020, visit uThukela to launch her mass home screen and testing drive.”
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government. Premier Sihle Zikalala on tightening of Coronavirus COVID-19 regulations at eThekwini. 19 April 2020.
“As it has become a norm, our Provincial Command Council once again sat on Friday of the 17th April 2020 and conducted an assessment of the status quo regarding COVID – 19 in our province. This meeting came one day after our successful launch of the Provincial community screening and testing programme, at the Jika Joe settlement, at UMgungundlovu District. Through this community screening and testing programme, we have been able to screen more than 95 952 people and test more than 480. We must at this point make our people understand that not all people will be screened and then be tested. Testing only happens after the screening has revealed the need to test.”
Public Service Commission. Public Service Commission on media reports relating to overcrowding at Mamelodi Hospital. 19 April 2020.
“The Public Service Commission (PSC) in Gauteng has noted with concern the media reports on Thursday, 16 April 2020, relating to the overcrowding of patients (breastfeeding mothers/pregnant women) and their treatment at the Mamelodi Hospital in Pretoria, following the lockdown restrictions on social distancing for preventative measure against coronavirus. The PSC welcomes the MEC for Health in Gauteng, Dr Bandile Masuku’s apology on the matter cited during the interview with ENCA on Friday, 17 April 2020, where he attributed the overcrowding and treatment of the women to administrative lapse on the part of the Hospital management because of the lockdown. However, the PSC would like to reiterate the importance of the integrity of public servants to continuously do the right thing even when no one is watching.”
Western Cape Health. Premier Alan Winde demonstrates on how to make cloth masks to prevent Coronavirus COVID-19. 17 April 2020.
“Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has teamed up with South Africa’s doyenne of DIY, Suzelle, to show the public how to make their own cloth masks. The video, released today, gives instructions for three easy ways to make a cloth mask- including a no-sew version using a bandana. Premier Winde said: “Cloth masks, when worn correctly, are an important tool in stopping the spread of COVID-19. The Western Cape Government encourages people to use cloth masks when going out into public places like supermarkets and when traveling on public transport. Medical masks and N95 respirators should be saved for our frontline medical staff.”
Media Statement
SA Government News Agency. Transnet donates personal protective equipment.
2020 Apr 18 SA News
“Transnet has donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) worth R5.2 million as part of the national effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19. The donation from South Africa’s largest freight company comes after government’s call for businesses and individuals to contribute to the fight against the virus. The handover of the PPE took place at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) on Saturday. Most of the donated equipment will be used at this hospital.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/transnet-donates-personal-protective-equipment
PERSONS AND FAMILY LAW
Media Statements
SA Government News Agency. COVID-19: Over 10 000 evacuations, repatriations conducted.
2020 Apr 18 SA News
“Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has noted ongoing operations, which have facilitated the evacuation and repatriation of 13 783 passengers from the start of April. In a statement on Saturday, the Minister noted the evacuation and repatriation operations at Gauteng’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, Cape Town International Airport and King Shaka International Airport in Durban. On Thursday, 9 April, President Ramaphosa announced a two-week extension of the previously announced 21-day national lockdown, which is part of efforts to slow the spread of Coronavirus.
Through the three airports, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has facilitated the evacuation and repatriation of 13 783 passengers from 1 – 18 April 2020.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/covid-19-over-10-000-evacuations-repatriations-conducted
SA Government News Agency. DIRCO continues to assist South Africans stranded abroad.
2020 Apr 18 SA News
“Efforts to ensure the repatriation of South Africans stranded abroad are continuing, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said on Saturday. “Negotiations are ongoing with countries and other stakeholders to allow stranded South Africans to travel,” said the department in a statement. The department has assured South Africans stranded abroad that no effort will be spared to ensure their repatriation amidst the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/dirco-continues-assist-south-africans-stranded-abroad
SA Government News Agency. Solidarity Fund distributes food parcels.
2020 Apr 18 SA News
“The Solidarity Fund has started delivering food parcels to more than 250 000 families across South Africa.
The Solidarity Fund, which receives donations from corporates, citizens and foundations, has made R120 million available for food relief for distressed families. The Fund is working with the Department of Social Development (DSD), four major non-profit organisations (NPOs) in the food security sector, and with faith and community-based organisations across the country to ensure maximum reach, especially in rural areas.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/solidarity-fund-distributes-food-parcels
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Media Releases
South African Police Service. Police on senior management appointments and outstanding promotions and regrading of posts. 17 April 2020.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) is proud to announce the recent appointment of senior managers in key positions as well as the promotion and re-grading of posts of more than 20 000 members that were effected during the 2019/2020 Financial Year. The implementation of various human resource processes within the Service is part of the organization’s Human Capital Investment Strategy, which aims to boost the morale and well-being of members.
Since 1 April 2019 to date, a total of 21 367 South African Police Service (SAPS) Act and Public Service Act (PSA) employees including senior managers have benefitted from these processes. The appointment of senior managers to key positions in the Service is part of the organizations plans to increase capacity, enhance accountability and bring about stability within the respective Provinces and Divisions.”
The Presidency. President Cyril Ramaphosa chairs special NEDLAC meeting on Coronavirus COVID-19pandemic. 17 April 2020.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 17 April 2020, met with social partners represented in the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) to discuss deepening cooperation as part of the national effort to combat the coronavirus pandemic. The virtual meeting was attended by NEDLAC representatives from government, business, labour and the community constituency. Participants agreed with the President that the pandemic was a health, economic and social crisis of unprecedented scale with far-reaching implications for the South African economy. The meeting agreed that the health and well-being of all South Africans must be the overriding concern of all sections of society, and that it was therefore necessary to intensify the public health response to the pandemic.”
TRADE AND INDUSTRY
Media Release
Department of Small Business Development. Small Business Development announces guidelines for participation in spazashops and general dealers Coronavirus COVID-19 support scheme. 18 April 2020.
“a) The support scheme also benefits the general dealers/ traditional grocery stores in townships and villages with applicable licenses that are 100% owned by South Africans.
b) Whereas the local hardware stores are also beneficiaries under this scheme, their funding package is being finalised to ensure their ability to operate as their businesses have been included in the updated list of businesses offering essential services. The support for artisans (e.g.: plumbers, electricians etc.) whose services have been classified as essential will also be announced during the week.
c) The Department has finalised an Agreement with NEDBANK to support Spaza shops and general dealers on the back of the Khula Credit Guarantee Scheme of SEFA. Engagements to on-board the other banks continuing. Support through NEDBANK and its channels became available from Saturday, 18 April 2020.
d) Given their footprint, NEDBANK has availed the NEDBANK Desks that are found in all the BOXER stores countrywide to serve as additional service points.”
TRANSPORTATION
Government Gazette
Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995
South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council: Extension to non-parties of the COVID-19 Temporary Relief Scheme Benefits Collective Agreement.
RGN466 GG 43235 p3 17Apr2020
http://www.gpwonline.co.za/Gazettes/Gazettes/43235_17-04_Labour.pdf
Media Release
Department of Transport. Minister Fikile Mbalula: Release of Easter fatalities statistics. 17 April 2020.
“This year’s Easter holidays came against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a nation-wide lockdown announced by the President. The consequence of this lockdown is the significant reduction of movement on our roads as prescribed by our Directions. The reduction of vehicle movement on our roads is estimated to be above 70%. The 2020 Easter period was extraordinary as there was limited movement. Despite the lockdown there were those allowed to travel. The Provincial breakdown of the 26 crashes is as follows:
- Mpumalanga: 6 crashes resulting in 7 fatalities;
- KwaZulu-Natal: 5 crashes resulting in 6 fatalities;
- Eastern Cape: 5 crashes resulting in 5 fatalities;
- Gauteng: 3 crashes resulting in 3 fatalities;
- Western Cape: 3 crashes resulting in 3 fatalities;
- North West: 3 crashes resulting in 3 fatalities;
- Limpopo: 1 crash resulting in 1 fatality;
- Free State: 0; and
- Northern Cape: 0
Media Statement
SA Government News Agency. COVID-19 Taxi Industry Relief in the works.
2020 Apr 19 SA News
“As the taxi industry counts the costs of the COVID-19 pandemic, intergovernmental consultations on a Taxi Industry Relief intervention are at an advanced stage. This was confirmed by Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula during a virtual meeting with the National Taxi Alliance (NTA) on Sunday. “The Departments of Transport, Small Business, Labour, Trade and Competition as well as the National Treasury have agreed to support the industry and are currently looking at various modalities of assistance,” the Transport Ministry in a statement said. The meeting was to discuss the effects the COVID-19 national lockdown regulations and directions were having on the sector.”
https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/covid-19-taxi-industry-relief-works
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