GOVERNMENT

Source: Business Tech
 6 Oct 2024

New developments will make it much easier for South Africans with green ID books to apply for new Smart ID cards.

The Department of Home Affairs wants to phase out green barcoded ID books in South Africa to limit widespread ID fraud and identity theft.

The department warned South Africans who still use green ID books and who have not upgraded to smart ID cards that they are at risk of having their identities stolen.

However, many South Africans are putting off upgrading to smart ID cards because they dread dealing with Home Affairs.

Home Affairs offices are notoriously inefficient and are associated with poor service levels, long queues, unfriendly staff, and systems regularly going offline.

There is hope on the horizon. Last month, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber unveiled a new five-year strategic vision to make his department digital-first.

This digital transformation aims to make it easier for South Africans to engage with the Department of Home Affairs and obtain what they need.

Dubbed “Home Affairs @ home”, Schreiber wants to make it possible for people to offer most services to South African citizens online.

“Over the next five years, all of the department’s services must become fully automated, digitised, and offered online,” Schreiber said.

Simply put, South Africans will be able to renew their passport or apply for a new Smart ID without visiting a Home Affairs office in person.

Schreiber said they will replicate the systems the banks and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) use to serve clients online.

People seeking civic services, like obtaining or replacing an ID, passport, or certificate, can apply online through a secure platform linked to their biometrics.

Even better news is that people’s Smart ID, passport, and other documents will be sent directly to the person’s door without the need to visit a Home Affairs office.

Schreiber said online applications and home deliveries will be available to people living in South Africa and abroad.

It does not stop there. The Minister also wants to make vital documents available in digital format on the client’s secure online profile and in a wallet app on their phone.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber
This is good news for South Africans with green ID books who still have to apply for and receive their new Smart IDs.

The government is promoting the use of smart ID cards to replace green ID books. Deputy minister Njabulo Nzuza said the goal is to issue 2.5 million smart ID cards this financial year.

However, despite this drive, the Department of Home Affairs is not issuing enough smart IDs to rapidly replace green ID books.

The slow pace means green ID books will likely remain valid for many years in South Africa. This will allow many people to wait for the new online system to kick in before applying.

For those who do not want to wait and still want to avoid visiting a Home Affairs branch, getting a new Smart ID at a bank branch is possible.

The Department of Home Affairs’ pilot project, which involves staff being placed in bank branches to facilitate smart ID card applications and passport renewals, is expanding.

The service supports online appointments, form submissions, and payment processing to significantly speed up the process and reduce queuing time.

The service is currently available at around 30 Absa, Discovery Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and Standard Bank branches.

The number of bank branches offering Smart ID applications is set to double, making it easy for South Africans to replace their green ID books.

Orlando Pirates emerged triumphant in the 2024 MTN8 final played at Moses Mabhida
Stadium, producing a remarkable come-from-behind win in defeating Stellenbosch 3-1 in what was a thrilling encounter on Saturday night.

The victory saw them become the first side to successfully defend their title twice in the tournament, having previously hoisted the prestigious piece of silverware aloft in 2022 and 2023. It was an excellent show of character for the defending champions, who had to fight back after trailing early in the contest.

This was after a nervy start to the contest where they had to see off a determined effort from the men from the Winelands. Pirates had to survive some early scares from their opponents before making a few surges up field, but without doing much to affect the scoreboard.

It was a similar story for the visitors whose attempts at penetrating the Bucs defensive third fell short under the watchful eye of the back four with Thabiso Sesane and Innocent Maela each making vital stops early on.


The Buccaneers could only contain the men from the Winelands until only the 14th minute as Lehlohonolo Mojela broke the deadlock with an acrobatic effort from close up after the Soweto Giants’ failure to clear their lines from a set piece. This launched Pirates into action as Patrick Maswanganyi and Thabiso Monyane each had shots blocked by keeper Sage Stephens in search of the equaliser.


Sipho Chaine was not kept entirely quiet at the other end as he was called upon to deal with Ibraheem Jabaar’s low shot from the edge of the box in the 31st minute. The Bucs shot- stopper proved equal to the task, diving low to his right to keep the visitors from doubling their lead.

The hosts remained on the front foot, entering opposition territory quite regularly without
really threatening the visitors’ lead. This was until three minutes from the break when Maswanganyi was fouled outside the box.


Deon Hotto’s effort from the set piece pierced the defensive wall, but could not find a way past the outstretched Stephens. The shot-stopper’s parry only went as far as Monnapule Saleng who made no mistake from the rebound, drawing the Buccaneers level moments before the break.


The Namibian international started the second half similarly to how he ended the previous period as he was again denied by Stephens who deflected his shot from close range onto the upright after the hosts’ caught their opponents napping from a set piece. Chaine also had to make an intervention at the opposite end, keeping out a shot from Fawaaz Basadien.

Stephens denied Relebohile Mofokeng from close range late in the contest, following up with another stop from Kabelo Dlamini’s boot as the Buccaneers desperately sought to avoid going into extra time. With the Stellies defence holding firm, it looked as if an extra 30 minutes was inevitable. This was until injury time when another lapse in concentration from the visitors allowed replacement striker Tshegofatso Mabasa in with a shot to edge the Buccaneers ahead, taking the lead for the first time in the contest.

Pirates soon added to Stellenbosch’s misery as they put the result beyond doubt with their third goal, which came through Mofokeng whose nifty feet inside the box allowed him a free shot at goal after the defence was stretched wide open. It was a deserved win for the Buccaneers, who had rallied back after an early setback to earn their 13th title in Top-Eight competition.


Pirates XI: Chaine, Sibisi, Sesane, Monyane, Maela (Mofokeng 62’), Mbatha (Rasebotja
74’), Makhaula (Dlamini 66’), Maswanganyi, Saleng, Hotto, Makgopa (Mabasa 66’).

Source: Orlando Pirates

By Tana Malinga

SOWETO is one of the well-known townships in the world.
   For this reason, the Motherland International Blues & Jazz Festival is taking this highly appreciated event to the heart of Soweto.
   It is expected to take place in Naledi, Soweto on the 27th of October to celebrate not just jazz as music, but African culture and heritage.       Dean Holloway, director for the fest, is calling on all South Africans and Africans in particular to come in big numbers to witness the live performances happening right at their door steps.

    Dean said this during a media briefing held at Bryanston, Joburg.    He said it’s been a while since Soweto held an event of this magnitude and it’s about time now that people can enjoy themselves and quality music.              Among other artists who will be performing include  Smoke J Lawrence and Nkosazana M.  The festival lineup includes the following:

·        King Don (SZ)

·        Owura Kay (GHAN)

·        Soweto Family Band

·        Sawubona Music Jam Band

·        Ian King

·        Themba Msomi

·        Simunye Theatrical Faces

·        Tshepo JR Mokoena ft. Lindo Summer

   Together, let us amplify the voices that demand to be heard, creating a chorus of unity, resilience and hope that reverberates far beyond the stage.    Tickets are available via Quicket from R100.

By Tana Malinga

FOR South Africa to produce best musicians, producers and songwriters, a lot needed to be done.

One Groove, in partnership with The Riky Rick Foundation, AUTOR and NIROX has organised a songwriting camp called 2025 AMA GROOVE Songwriting Camp, where young Mzansi people are taught the skills they need to succeed in entertainment space.

The camp will last from 26 April to 3 May next year. And everyone who has attended the mentorship programme will not only be armed with the knowledge they need to succeed in music. But they will also have the opportunity to share their cultural beliefs and do collaboration .The camp is set to take place at Kromdraai Impact and Co-Creativity Hub in the Cradle of Humankind.

The camp not only gives young emerging artists the opportunity to refine their skills, form meaningful connections and also to work alongside some of the industry’s brightest minds.

They will learn to:

● Collaborate with like-minded artists, producers and topliners.

● Co-create potential global breakthroughs while gaining new skills in songwriting and music production.

● Network with industry professionals, opening doors to future opportunities.

● Learn from inspiring Masterclass Talks, workshops and feedback sessions.

The AMA GROOVE Songwriting Camp is more than just music.

It celebrates cultural heritage and promotes mental health awareness within the music industry.

Participants will explore their roots while learning how to respectfully draw inspiration from other cultures.

This is a unique opportunity to develop tools for navigating the complex music landscape while enhancing awareness of the industry’s impact on mental health.

Program highlights include the following:

● Writing sessions and workshops in the stunning natural surroundings of the Cradle of Humankind.

● Inspirational talks from renowned artists and industry experts.

● A musical workshop with Ubuntu Queens, a group of underprivileged girls from a nearby settlement.

● Attendance at CottonFest Joburg for creative inspiration.

● A listening session with feedback from an esteemed industry panel.

Aspiring songwriters, producers and musicians are encouraged to apply immediately before the closing date of December the 20th, as the 2024 camp garnered over 1000 applicants with only 14 participants that were selected between Denmark and South Africa. Applications will be reviewed by a curated panel from One Groove, The Riky Rick Foundation, NIROX and AUTOR.

Broos names final squad for AFCON qualifiers against Congo Brazzavile

3 October 2024 – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his final 23-member squad for this month’s two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Congo Brazzavile.

The South African senior men’s national team face the Congolese in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, on Friday, 11 October 2024 (7pm), and then they travel to Congo to play the return match on Tuesday, 15 October 2024.

Looking ahead to the matches against Congo, Broos said he was concerned by the number of goals that his charges concede during matches.

“Those things have got to change, that has to change” he said.

“You can’t concede two or three goals in almost every game and have to score three or four goals to win a game. We have to restore that.”

The team will assemble in Johannesburg on Saturday, 5 October 2024 and then travel to Gqeberha on the next day.

Tickets are available in several outlets and the link is below.

Ticketpro – South Africa vs Congo – 11th of October 2024 – (ticketpros.co.za)

Source: SAFA

Eskom Expo ISF honours top young scientists with exciting prizes and bursaries

An array of exciting prizes from full bursaries to cash prizes, laptops and tablet computers were awarded to top performing innovators at this year’s Eskom Expo International Science Fair.

The fair is being heldat the Convention Centre at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park from 23 to 27 September 2024, and brings together the brightest young scientists from across South Africa and various countries around the world.

Title sponsor, Eskom awarded four Special Awards of R10 000 in cash to the Best Female, Best Development, Best Energy and Best Innovation projects. The Eskom Special Award winners were:

Best development project:SalusiweMxayiya, a Grade 11 learner at Luhlaza High School in the Cape Town Region, was presented this award for investigating the population dynamics and infection rates of Hector’s lantern fish (Lampanyctodes hectoris) – a common species found along the west coast of South Africa. Mxayiya collected 500 samples from across various locations in the Southern Benguela area. Her notable study highlights the negative ecological and economic impacts of the parasite, emphasizing the need for the Department of Forestry and Fisheries to consider reducing allowable catches to prevent further depletion of the lantern fish population.

Best Female:The judges identified two female learners for this award. Ammarah Patel, a Grade 10 learner from Parktown High School for Girls in the Johannesburg Region, whose project, titled “The Optimization of the Physical Properties of Bioplastics,” was in the Environmental Studies category; and Naveera Chana, a Grade 8 learner from Cooper College in the Johannesburg Region, whose project, titled “Design of a Low-Cost System for Photosynthesis Measurements,” was in the Plant Sciences category. Both learners tied for this award due to their impressive in-depth analysis and understanding of their research.

Best Innovation Project:AmanPati, a Grade 11 learner at Kingfisher School in the Mopani Region, Limpopo, was honoured with this award. Pati’s research project, titled ‘Revolutionizer: The Sky is NOT the Limit’, focused on the high cost of rocket fuel and the harmful black carbon emissions it produces, which are detrimental to both the environment and public health. Following an extensive literature review and several theoretical calculations, Pati’s “Revolutionizer Mechanism” reduced black carbon emissions by 1 gigagram (1,000 metric tons) and saved 1,587 kg of fuel per launch, offering an estimated cost savings of R6 million per launch.

Best energy project:LukusaTshizubu, a Grade 12 learner atParow High School, who represented the Stellenbosch Region in the Western Cape, was the recipient of this award. The Judges adjudicating in the Energy Category were impressed with his project titled, ‘GreenHauler – Construction Debris Management Truck’. The goal of his project was to build the ‘GreenHauler’ truck, designed to use renewable energy and innovative on-site debris processing for efficient construction debris management. This project expertly advances sustainable practices in the industry, highlighting the importance of investing in green technologies and paving the way for further innovations in environmentally friendly construction solutions.

Eskom Development Foundation Acting CEO, Mologadi Motshele said, “Eskom extends itscongratulationsto the young researchers who are reshaping the future of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation (STEMI) and fostering a more diverse and inclusive scientific community, ultimately leading to the betterment of South Africa. The Eskom Expo has always sought to nurture the interest and passion for the sciences in our youth, through thoughtful assistance, and enabling these bright young scientists to follow their passion at the tertiary level. This is Eskom’s contribution towards building a pool of future talent, that will work across in a variety of fields and industries. The dedication and passion demonstrated by these participating young scientists is paving the way for a brighter, and more innovative future for all the young scientists involved in this project.

Eskom Expo Executive Director, Parthy Chetty said: “We are delighted to announce the Special Awards Ceremony recognising outstanding young scientists in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI). This prestigious event will celebrate the innovative work and achievements of tomorrow’s leaders, showcasing their contributions to advancing knowledge and solving real-world challenges. Join us as we honour these brilliant minds, whose ground-breaking research and creative solutions are shaping a better future. Their dedication to STEMI is an inspiration to all. We look forward to celebrating their success and continued contributions to society.”

Technology giantsBabcock International and Siemens Energy awarded five full bursaries worth R2.2 million (which includes tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, meal allowances and a laptop) for winners to study towards a Bachelor of Science in Engineering at any South African university of their choice. The Babcock winners were: MbasaHamann from Ugie High School (Mthatha Region); DiyashaRungasami from Raisethorpe Secondary School (KZN Central Region); and AlizwaSobuza from Port Shepstone Secondary School (Southern KZN Region). The Siemens Energy winners were: Zahra Karim from Newcastle High School (Northern KZN Region) and Percy Phala from Bokamoso Secondary School (Capricorn Region).

Additionally, Siemens Pty Ltd and Siemens Energy provided valuable prizes to previously disadvantaged schools at the ISF. Generous sponsors such as FFS Refiners, Ekurhuleni Drums, Trisim Logistics, NIThECS, CXI Africa and Berea Plumbers supported students by sponsoring laptop computers and cash awards. Universities like the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Pretoria further contributed by offering academic support through bursaries and mentorship programmes.

The ceremony concluded with Tahir Ousman, a Zinniaville Secondary School learner who represented the Bojanala Region, being awarded the prestigious University of Pretoria/Dr Derek Gray Memorial Award for the research project entitled: “Twin prime conjecture and its significance in number theory”. The award consists of the Derek Gray Gold Medal, attendance at the Stockholm International Youth Science Seminar during Nobel Week, and a three-year study bursary in the sciences or engineering at the University of Pretoria, provided he meets the required criteria.
For the complete list of 2024 Eskom Expo ISF winners, visit http://www.exposcience.co.za

Source: Eskom

League in our provinces. This is an ideal platform for Coach Desiree, the Junior National team coaches and their technical teams to scout talent for Banyana Banyana, the U17s and U20 national teams.

I also want to thank the South African Football Association (SAFA) through the leadership of Dr Danny Jordaan and the NEC for your investment, guidance and believe in building women’s football in this country from 1993 to date.       Your actions through your decisions to prioritise women football continue to build a legacy that inspires many young girls in this country to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.

Thanks to the Western Cape PEC for putting up your hands in hosting the Sasol National Playoffs this year. We hope you will make this a memorable tournament for all of us” said Monyepao.

To all the teams that have qualified for the tournament, congratulations. I wish you all the best in your preparations, your journey to the Western Cape and your participation in the Sasol National Playoffs. The stage is all yours. DARE TO SHINE! May the best team win

As teams gear up for the Sasol League National Championship from 15 to 20 October in Knysna Western Cape, fans can anticipate what promises to be a thrilling display of the best women’s football talent in South Africa.

The tournament will consist of nine group stages and three knock-out matches as follows:

•           Group Stages (15 – 17 October) – broadcast on Sasol and SAFA social and digital media platforms

•           Semi Final (18 October) – broadcast on SABC Sport Channel

•           Final (20 October) – broadcast on SABC 1

Source: Sasol

By RapuleRamalepa
Brenda Mtambo is a first time SA Music (SAMAs) nominee, 10 years into her illustrious music career.
The 41 year old was revealed as one of the SAMAs nominees at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Thursday, with Grammy Award- winner Tyle leading the nomination’s pack with five nods.
Mtambo is nominated in three categories- Best African Adult Contemporary Album, Best Engineered Album, and Female Artist of the year duking it out with Tyla, LwahNdlunkulu,
Lord Keez and Xoli Mcwango.
‘What is special about these three Nominations is that it is my first time being nominated for a SAMA in my decade long career.
Tyla other nominations include Album of the year, Newcomer of the year, Best Pop Album and Best collaboration for the water remix featuring Travis Scott. Tyla will go against Idols SA alumi Paxton and Matthwe Mole in the Best Pop Album Category.
Amapiano sensation Kabza de Small and cultural practitioner singer Mbuzo Khozatrai; Tylaas this year top nominated.
Kabza is in the running Album of the year, Best Amapiano, Album and Duo Group of the year.
He will go head to head with Mellour and Sleazy, Demthuda, Daliwonga and Kelvin Momo for the coveted Best Amapiano Album.
Khoza is nodded for the Best produced Album Best Traditional Music Album and Best Engineered Album for Shakailembe Sound Tracj Album Volume 2- original music from the Shaka iLembe TV series.
Other nominees include Marda, Priggy, Ugly, Daliwonga Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Brendon Praise, Thee Legacy, The Soil, Bongiwe Mabandla, Vusi Mahlasela Da Muzigal Chef, Zakes Bantwini, DBN Gogo, Nastcy C, Thando Ntuli and Carlos Nino.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this year’s SAMAs winners will be announced in November.
Metro Fm’s Luthando ‘’Lootlove’’ Shosha hosted the nominations party, with performances by Zola, Khuli Chana and DJ Thabi Thabs.
‘’ We are delightful to congratulate the nominees for SAMA 30. This year’s selection showcases the incredible diversity, talent and creativity in South African Music, which is aligned to the ethos of the SAMAs
We are excited to celebrate these outstanding achievements at the upcoming awards ceremony, said Nhlanhla Sibisi CEO of the Recording industry of South Africa( RISA).

The Boxer Super Run is set for an exciting debut in Tshwane on Sunday, 10 November 2024. Entrants can choose the start wave that best aligns with their running ability and race-day goals, ensuring that they fully enjoy South Africa’s most social 5km run.

“The Boxer Super Run is a high-energy 5km road race that appeals to runners of all fitness levels,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “With the 5km distance being a globalfavourite, the Boxer Super Run attracts a diverse mix of participants— from seasoned athletes looking to push their limits to newcomers eager to dive into the vibrant world of road running. By bringing excitement and energy to the 5km race, the Boxer Super Run is playing a key role in boosting the growing popularity of shorter-distance events.”

“The Boxer Super Run stands out by allowing participants to select the start wave that best matches their running experience,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Department: Marketing at Boxer Superstores. “Runners can choose between the Open Wave and the Super Social Wave, with the day’s excitement culminating in the highly anticipated Elite Men’s and Women’s Waves. The Open Wave, starting at 07:00, is designed for serious runners who may not be elites but are eager to challenge themselves and improve their personal bests. This wave is also the ideal choice for club runners and schools focused on competitive running.”

“For those runners who enjoy the social aspect of running, the Super Social Wave offers a later start (between 08:00 – 09:30),” confirms Pillay.

“This wave is all about fun rather than focusing on time! We rely on the Super Social Wave participants to bring the energy and creativity—dress up, embrace the vibe! Help us make the day unforgettable.”

Info: supplied

Standard Bank Group, the biggest bank in Africa by asset, and Meridiam, an independent investment Benefit Corporation and an asset manager, hosted a joint event to unlock investment opportunities in alternate energy infrastructure on the continent. 

Meridiam has been building its investment credentials on the continent since 2015 and has partnered with Standard Bank for over the past 4 years focussing on alternate energy infrastructure projects. Last year, the company bought BTE Renewables assets in Kenya, a company which reportedly operates and develop 250 MW of onshore wind and solar projects in the country.

“Given our unrivalled footprint across the continent, we are regularly looking to work with partners that share our vision for building this continent that we call home, and this kind of event is important to mark the excellent work that has gone before and the joint work we intend to continue,” says Zen Dlamini, Head of Public Sector and Infrastructure at Standard Bank.

Under the theme “Unlocking public infrastructure investment in South Africa,” the two entities hosted a mix of corporate executives, government, and media stakeholders for an event that both offered reflections on the investment done and the work that still needs to be done.  

“We are singularly focused on funding projects that advance the growth and development of African countries and with Standard Bank we have a partner that is in sync with our vision,” says Thierry Déau, the founder and Chief Executive of Meridiam.

Last month President Ramaphosa signed the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of South Africa’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market. The Act will enable additional private sector involvement in the local energy market.

“The SA government is on a reform journey that requires cross-societal support, partnerships such as these are encouraging offshoots that contribute to the growth needed to get to our destination,” says Rudi Dicks, Head of the Project Management Office in the Presidency who attended the event.

The two companies committed to continue to leverage opportunities in the energy sector across the continent. 

Source: Standard Bank