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Autumn weather conditions dominate SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Autumn weather conditions dominate SA

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says typical autumn weather systems will dominate over the country this week.

“This consists of a surface trough over the western and central interior, with the Atlantic High extending its ridge over the southern and eastern parts of the country, resulting in isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers in places,” SAWS said on Monday.

Monday’s forecast shows partly cloudy and cool to warm with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in KwaZulu-Natal.

Low chances of severe thunderstorms in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

There is a low to medium chance of flooding due to heavy downpours in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

On Tuesday, the weather will be partly cloudy and cool to warm with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers, but widespread in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

There will be a low chance of severe thunderstorms in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

A low to medium chance of possible flooding due to heavy downpours in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

Possible flooding due to heavy downpours:

  • Wednesday – Low to medium chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, and Eastern Cape.
  • Thursday – Low to medium chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Friday – Low to medium chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Saturday – Low to medium chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Sunday – Low to medium chance in the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal Eastern Cape, and Mpumalanga.

Possible severe thunderstorms:

  • Wednesday – Low chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State and Eastern Cape.
  • Thursday – Low chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Friday – Low chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Saturday – Low chance in the Eastern Northern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga.
  • Sunday – Low chance in the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government implements measures to improve operations in psychiatric unit

Source: Government of South Africa

Government implements measures to improve operations in psychiatric unit

The Gauteng provincial government is addressing operational inefficiencies identified at the psychiatric unit at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, following the death of a patient in a fire.

The inefficiencies at the hospital are being addressed through increasing capacity, strengthening security, enhancing staff training, installing additional CCTV cameras, and implementing fire remedial projects.

“When the draft report on the matter was presented to us, we immediately undertook an overhaul to rectify the situation and to ensure that this kind of incident does not occur within our institution again,” Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said on Monday, during a media briefing in Pretoria.

He was responding to a report by Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, on the findings from two investigations into patient safety incidents in Gauteng.

The briefing addressed the death of a mental health care user at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital and the neonatal death at Netcare Femina Hospital (NFH).   

Ms L Mohlamme, a 35-year-old mental health care user, died following a fire incident while admitted at the public hospital. She had been brought to the hospital on 19 June 2024 by her brother-in-law.

The Health Ombud’s investigation sought to determine whether the care provided complied with the Mental Health Care Act, which requires that all mental health care users receive humane, dignified, and least restrictive care.

Following the conclusion of the investigation into the death of Mohlamme, professional bodies, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the South African Nursing Council (SANC), will be requested to consider the findings and to initiate appropriate professional conduct enquiries on the implicated health professionals.

“More broadly, the investigation uncovered systemic violations of the rights of mental health care users, including the use of punitive practices, inadequate infrastructure, inadequate staffing, and insufficient staff knowledge of the Mental Health Care Act. The findings also point to systemic weaknesses and failures in governance and oversight overall,” Mokoena said.

Since receiving the preliminary report, the Gauteng government has added 12 nurses, bringing the total to 105 nurses.

The Health Ombud recommended the redesign and refurbishment of the psychiatric unit at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital to comply with all legal requirements of the psychiatric unit, including security and safety requirements.

 “As reflected in the reports, the reporting processes and security structures were non-existent.  We have now strengthened these by assigning nine permanent security personnel who are stationed on-site so that in incidents of this nature, they are the first to respond.

“We are strengthening supervision to ensure that those tasked with this work are properly trained and capacitated. To date, we have trained 21 nurses and two social workers, enabling them to better understand the responsibilities outlined in the report. We have also installed additional CCTV cameras to allow security personnel to monitor situations in real time,” the Premier said.

The government has also implemented fire remedial projects – some are still in progress, while those completed resulted in the issuing of a certificate of fire compliance on 19 February. 

“This means that the hospital is now fire compliant, although there are still outstanding matters requiring urgent attention. We need to procure items such as certified fireproof mattresses and other issues identified in the report, which we believe are critical to achieving full compliance,” Panyaza added.

The report also recommended upgrades to include the patient recreation and rehabilitation facilities.

“Protecting the dignity, safety, and rights of mental health care users is not optional; it’s a constitutional and legislative imperative. The Health Ombud will continue to monitor the implementation of the recommendations and will work with all stakeholders to ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again.”

Key findings in the Mohlamme case include the following:

  • Her admission process did not comply with legal requirements, where two medical practitioners did not independently examine and commit the patient in the prescribed form and manner, thus rendering the application technically invalid.
  • Mechanical restraint was applied in excess, inconsistent with national policy guidelines.
  • A history of alleged sexual assault that she gave was not appropriately assessed, documented, or reported to the South African Police Services as required, thus representing both clinical and legal procedure failures.
  • Prescribed medication was deliberately withheld as punishment. However, medical records were falsified to indicate administration.
  • The patient was denied food as punishment during the seclusion.
  • The required safety procedures were not followed during the seclusion process.
  • The seclusion room was poorly located, being very far from the nurses’ station, and lacked adequate monitoring devices.
  • Safety fire concerns raised by another patient were dismissed.
  • The patient was not thoroughly searched before being committed to the seclusion room. The patient had a cigarette lighter on her person, which she most probably used to start the fire.
  • Emergency exits were locked and keys were misplaced or hidden.
  • Disaster-preparedness systems were inadequate.
  • Mattresses in the psychiatric unit were not fireproof or fire-retardant and thus readily allowed ignition and spread of fire.
  • A postmortem confirmed that Mohlamme was alive during the fire and died from severe burn injuries. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Countdown to 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July begins

Source: Government of South Africa

Countdown to 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July begins

The countdown to Africa’s most prestigious horse racing and lifestyle event has officially begun, with preparations gaining momentum, following the reveal of the theme for the 2026 edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July.

The glitzy affair is set to take place on 4 July at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse in KwaZulu-Natal.

Unveiled recently at The Parade Ring within racecourse, the 2026 theme, “Country Allure,” calls on designers, fashion enthusiasts and racegoers to draw inspiration from rural landscapes blended with classic racing elegance.

The theme sets the stage for another standout edition of one of Durban’s flagship events, while reinforcing the city’s reputation as a leading destination for premier events. Chairperson of the City’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, welcomed the announcement and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience.

“We look forward to welcoming thousands of punters, fashion enthusiasts and visitors to Durban, boosting tourism and hospitality. The event remains key in driving economic growth, supporting jobs and the fashion industry, and contributing to the City’s GDP [gross domestic product]. Preparations will now begin to ensure a safe, seamless and memorable Durban July experience for all,” Ntuli said.

The Hollywoodbets Durban July continues to be a major economic driver for eThekwini.

The 2025 edition attracted more than 40 000 attendees and contributed approximately R840 million to Durban’s GDP. It supported around 4 500 jobs, generated R50 million in tax revenue and achieved hotel occupancy rates of 80% during race week.

Organisers expect an even greater impact in 2026.

Designer Mzwandile Mathonsi, founder of the ZWANDYY fashion brand, said the theme offers significant creative and commercial potential.

“The ‘Country Allure’ theme is rich with storytelling, allowing us to explore heritage and sophistication in bold ways. The Hollywoodbets Durban July is a platform to grow, reach new audiences and showcase African creativity. As a product of the City’s Fashion Development Programme, I am proud to be part of this journey and ready to deliver standout designs,” he said.

Stephen Marshall of Race Coast said the theme celebrates the heritage and authenticity of horse racing while inspiring creativity in fashion and design.

Meanwhile, Hollywoodbets spokesperson Devin Heffer described the event as a timeless celebration of sport, fashion and entertainment, adding that preparations are well underway to deliver another memorable edition.

Heffer described the event as a timeless celebration of sport, fashion, and entertainment that continues to attract guests from across the country and abroad. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs: Iranian Attacks on Qatar a Dangerous Escalation, Unacceptable Violation Threatening Regional Stability

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, March 19, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani affirmed that the Iranian attacks on the State of Qatar, including the targeting of the Ras Laffan energy complex on Wednesday, represent a dangerous escalation and an unacceptable violation, amid the war between Iran and Israel and the United States of America, and ongoing Iranian attempts to drag the region into this conflict.

His Excellency said, during a press conference held Thursday with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkiye Hakan Fidan, that the State of Qatar condemned from the very first hour the attack on Iranian energy facilities and infrastructure by Israel; however, the Iranian response unfortunately came through directly attacking the State of Qatar, as part of an extended series of strikes that have targeted military and civilian objectives over the past two weeks, the latest of which was at the Ras Laffan energy complex.

He explained that this act of sabotage reflects an aggressive and irresponsible policy and a dangerous escalation on the part of Iran, noting that Wednesday’s attack targeted a natural gas facility in the State of Qatar, which is a source of livelihood for the Qatari people, and also affected millions of vulnerable people whom Qatar supports across various parts of the world.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs added that a large portion of the attack was intercepted, but it succeeded in hitting some facilities, the damages of which are currently being assessed.

He continued that there were no human casualties as a result of the precautionary measures taken since the first attack at the beginning of this war, stressing that material losses can be compensated, but human life cannot. He affirmed that this attack has significant repercussions on global energy supplies, noting that such attacks bring no direct benefit to any country, but rather cause harm to peoples directly.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also renewed the State of Qatar’s rejection of ongoing Iranian claims that these attacks target American interests or US bases in Qatar or in the region, stating that this claim is rejected and cannot be accepted under any justification.

He added that such hostile acts, their continuation, and the expansion of war will only lead to a greater escalation in the region, at a time when recent days have witnessed disruption to navigation and freedom of passage, and threats to ships and tankers in a vital corridor such as the Strait of Hormuz.

He stressed that the security of the region is a collective responsibility, and that all countries must adhere to this responsibility and be worthy of it, emphasizing the importance of an immediate halt to Iranian attacks on countries in the region and a general de-escalation. 

Regarding the attack on the gas complex, HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani explained that a large part of the attack was intercepted; however, it succeeded in hitting some facilities, the damage to which is currently being assessed, reiterating that there were no human casualties.

He stressed that targeting this facility, which is one of the sources of livelihood for the Qatari people and one of the main sources that fund Qatar’s humanitarian efforts across the world, has a direct impact, expressing his hope that the Islamic Republic of Iran realizes that through these actions it has deprived vulnerable people of this support.

His Excellency affirmed, at the conclusion of his remarks during the press conference, that the State of Qatar reserves its full rights to respond to this attack through legal means, and that all these actions will carry consequences under international law.

For his part, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkiye Hakan Fidan said the State of Qatar, while seeking to mediate to resolve the crisis, has been subjected to an unexpected attack, which is still ongoing.

He added that attacks that disregard civilian life and target infrastructure are completely unacceptable and cannot be justified at any time or under any pretext, affirming that his country always stands by Qatar and will continue to support it.

He explained that this ongoing war directly threatens the security of all countries in the region and undermines its stability at its core, noting that the meeting of regional countries in Riyadh on Wednesday, at the invitation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was an urgent necessity since the beginning of the war, as participants affirmed their support for the countries that have been attacked and the importance of halting attacks and finding diplomatic solutions to prevent the spread of clashes.

He added that the primary cause of this war that is dragging the region into an unprecedented crisis is Israel, noting that the attacks came at a time when diplomatic talks were ongoing. 

He added that Israel incited escalation to expand its objectives and did not suffice with turning the region into a battlefield, but also threatened global stability.

HE the Turkish Foreign Minister pointed out that Iran must remember its historical responsibility, saying that whatever the justifications, Iran’s attacks on countries in the region deliberately target and undermine regional stability and cannot be accepted.

He noted that Iran is wrong, just as the attacks launched against it were also wrong, stressing the need to avoid actions that hinder freedom of navigation and movement at sea, and not to allow Israel to benefit from instability to cover up its occupation and expansionist policies.

He affirmed that his country’s position is fully aligned with that of Qatar in keeping communication channels open to establish peace and address all concerns, warning that the current war may distract the world from the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, amid Israel’s continued violations, as well as its ongoing occupation and destruction policies in Lebanon, calling on the international community to clearly assume its responsibilities.

HE Hakan Fidan also stressed that a just and lasting peace with the Palestinian people is the key to stability. 

He noted that Turkish-Qatari relations have reached the level of a joint strategic partnership, and that Turkiye will continue its full solidarity with Qatar under all difficult circumstances, including cooperation in defense industries and their development through tangible steps.

HE the Turkish Foreign Minister highlighted that Turkiye and Qatar face challenges together, and that support and solidarity between the two countries are firm and ongoing, with a clear will to enhance cooperation and confront any threats facing the region.

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Seychelles: Restructuring and New Appointments in the Cabinet Office

Source: APO – Report:

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The Office of the President has today announced a series of appointments within the Cabinet Office as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Office and enhance the coordination of government policy and decision-making.

Ms. Margaret Moumou continues to serve as Secretary of State for Cabinet Affairs and Head of the Civil Service, providing overall leadership and strategic oversight for the functioning of the Cabinet system and the wider public service.

In support of this strengthened structure, Ms. Florry Payet has been appointed Cabinet Secretary, effective 1 February 2026. In this capacity, Ms. Payet will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Cabinet Office, coordinate the work of Cabinet, and ensure that Cabinet processes and decisions are conducted in accordance with the Constitution, the laws of Seychelles, and established government procedures. She will also support the President and Cabinet in the effective coordination of government policy and decision-making, while ensuring the proper recording, implementation, and follow-up of Cabinet decisions across the public service.

To further reinforce the operational and technical capacity of the Cabinet Office, two Deputy Cabinet Secretaries have also been appointed.

Mr. Alex Henderson has been appointed Deputy Cabinet Secretary – Policy Affairs, effective 1 February 2026. In this role, he will support the Cabinet Secretary in coordinating the policy development process across government, strengthening the quality and coherence of policy submissions presented to Cabinet, and ensuring alignment of policy proposals with national priorities and Government programmes.

Mrs. Angela Payet has been appointed Deputy Cabinet Secretary – Legal Affairs, effective 26 February 2026. She will provide legal oversight and guidance on matters relating to Cabinet processes, ensure that Cabinet decisions and procedures remain consistent with the Constitution and applicable laws, and provide legal advice on policy, legislative, and governance matters submitted for Cabinet consideration.

These appointments form part of the continued efforts of the Office of the President to reinforce the capacity of the Cabinet Office to effectively support Government decision-making, policy coordination, and the implementation of national priorities.

The Office of the President congratulates Ms. Florry Payet, Mr. Alex Henderson, and Mrs. Angela Payet on their appointments and wishes them every success in the discharge of their duties.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Which Pre-Crisis African Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Projects Could Provide Critical Supply for Europe

Source: APO – Report:

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Europe’s gas strategy is under renewed pressure. Rising geopolitical risk and tightening global LNG markets have refocused attention on African projects that were approved years ago – but are only now becoming operational. At the Invest in African Energy Forum (IAE) in Paris next month, these pre-crisis LNG developments are expected to dominate discussions as buyers and investors reassess near-term, flexible supply options.

The advantage is timing. Projects sanctioned before today’s disruptions are delivering – or approaching first gas – providing Europe with volumes without waiting for the next multi-year investment cycle. In a market where new greenfield LNG supply can take 5–7 years to reach the market, African LNG increasingly functions as ready-to-deploy capacity, capable of meeting demand spikes, offsetting supply shortfalls and reducing reliance on concentrated geopolitical sources.

Mozambique LNG: Scale Delayed, But Strategic

Mozambique remains Africa’s largest long-term LNG play, with more than 30 mtpa of planned additional capacity across developments led by TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil. While TotalEnergies’ 12.9 mtpa Mozambique LNG project remains paused due to security concerns, momentum toward a restart is building.

In today’s market, that scale is highly relevant. European buyers seeking to diversify away from concentrated supply sources are increasingly willing to engage with projects that offer long-term volumes – even if timelines remain uncertain. In a tighter global market, previously “high-risk” projects are being reassessed as strategic supply anchors.

Senegal–Mauritania GTA: From Frontier to First Gas

The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG Project (GTA), operated by bp and Kosmos Energy, is moving into production just as Europe looks to expand Atlantic Basin supply. The project will deliver around 2.3 mtpa in its first phase, with expansion potential up to 10 mtpa.

GTA’s strategic advantage lies not only in scale but in design and timing. Floating LNG units allow faster deployment and flexible cargo delivery, while its West African location shortens shipping times to Europe compared with U.S. Gulf exports. As Europe seeks to balance winter demand peaks, GTA provides mid-scale, redirectable supply that the market currently lacks.

Nigeria LNG Expansion: Incremental Capacity, Immediate Impact

Nigeria LNG Train 7 will add roughly 8 mtpa to the country’s existing 22 mtpa capacity, making it one of the most significant near-term additions globally. Unlike greenfield projects, Train 7 leverages existing infrastructure, reducing cost and development time. For Europe, incremental expansions like this offer faster access to contracted volumes, helping utilities manage seasonal volatility and limit exposure to spot-market price swings.

Angola LNG: Underutilized, Now Repositioned

Angola’s Angola LNG plant has a nameplate capacity of 5.2 mtpa but has historically operated below potential due to feedgas constraints. With upstream investment improving and gas supply stabilizing, the project now represents “quick-win” capacity – volumes that can be ramped up without the long lead times of new developments. For European buyers, this latent supply is increasingly valuable as a buffer against short-term disruptions.

Republic of Congo LNG: Fast-Track Development

The Congo LNG Project, led by Eni, targets around 3 mtpa through a phased, modular approach, with first exports already underway. By leveraging existing offshore assets and floating LNG units, the project has moved from concept to production faster than traditional developments. In a market where timing is critical, rapid deployment offers a clear competitive advantage.

Paris as the Deal-Making Interface

As these dynamics converge, the IAE 2026 Forum in Paris is emerging as a key platform for turning market demand into project momentum. With European buyers seeking long-term supply and African producers looking to advance both new and delayed LNG projects, the forum provides direct engagement with decision-makers, investors and technical teams.

Africa’s pre-crisis LNG projects were not designed for today’s market – but in a world of tight supply and high volatility, their readiness is becoming indispensable.

IAE 2026 (www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to connect African energy markets with global investors, serving as a key platform for deal-making in the lead-up to African Energy Week. Scheduled for April 22–23, 2026, in Paris, the event will provide delegates with two days of in-depth engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or register as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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From Day Zero to direct potable reuse: Water Security Africa programme spotlights proven utility playbooks to cut losses and strengthen supply

Source: APO – Report:

Water Security Africa, co-located with Enlit Africa (19–21 May 2026, CTICC), has announced its full programme, centred on utility and municipal playbooks from regions that have faced acute water stress and responded with measurable operational change.

With sub-Saharan Africa projected to face a 50% gap between water supply and demand by 2030, utilities are under increasing pressure to reduce losses, diversify supply and strengthen operational resilience.

The SAICE CPD-accredited programme focuses on two hard realities: persistent water losses across urban networks and the growing need for diversified and resilient water sources.. Over three days, utility executives, city leaders and technical specialists will share approaches to loss reduction, asset management, smart metering, reuse and desalination, with a focus on implementation pathways, governance and delivery models.

Key programme themes include:

Reducing non-revenue water through targeted leak detection, pressure management, smart metering and performance-led delivery models

Building resilient supply through fit-for-purpose reuse and desalination, including when modular systems make sense and how projects move from concept to commissioning

Strengthening municipal execution by aligning policy intent with local implementation, licensing and operational capacity

The programme also features country spotlights with operational lessons from:

Cape Town: Post-Day Zero recovery strategies and the operational discipline required to sustain long-term resilience

Windhoek: The world’s longest-running direct potable reuse programme and the institutional structures that make reuse investment-ready.

Kampala: Performance-driven approaches to reducing losses while expanding supply capacity

Nairobi and South African municipalities: Accelerating delivery through smart metering rollouts, pipeline prioritisation and partnership models

“Cities cannot engineer their way out of water stress with one silver bullet,” said Claire Volkwyn, Head of Content, VUKA Group “What works is operational execution: reducing losses, strengthening networks and building supply resilience with solutions that can be financed and delivered.”

Confirmed speakers include Emmanuel Khomela (ERWAT), Patrick Hlabela (Department of Water and Sanitation),  Hilton Smith (Drakenstein Local Municipality) and additional municipal, utility and industry leaders across the programme.

Download the programme: https://apo-opa.co/41k2nmj

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4tmZUnp

– on behalf of VUKA Group.

Contacts:
Speaking opportunities:
Claire Volkwyn,VUKA Group
Claire.volkwyn@wearevuka.com  

For sponsorship and exhibition:
Marcel du Toit
marcel.dutoit@wearevuka.com

About Water Security Africa :
Water Security Africa, co-located with Enlit Africa, addresses operational and economic water challenges across utilities, municipalities and commercial and industrial sectors. The event takes place 19–21 May 2026 at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa. All sessions are CPD-accredited by SAICE.

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group connects people and organisations to information and each other, across Africa’s energy, mining, infrastructure, mobility, green economy and technology sectors through innovative events, content, and strategic networking. By integrating industry introductions, curated events and digital engagement, the group empowers businesses to navigate complex markets, forge valuable connections and drive sustainable success.

Venture partners to The Global Trust Project, Founders of WomenIN empowerment platform and leaders of NPO, Go Green Africa. The VUKA Group’s diverse portfolio acts to contribute to its purpose of ‘Connecting Africa to the World’s Best, to Influence Sustainable Progress’. Discover more at: https://WeAreVUKA.com/

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Avon project brings water relief to Ga-Seakamela community

Source: Government of South Africa

Avon project brings water relief to Ga-Seakamela community

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has officially handed over the completed Avon Water Project in the Blouberg Local Municipality, within the Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo, bringing much-needed water services to the Ga-Seakamela community.

The R22.9 million project, funded through the Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), was implemented to assist the Capricorn District Municipality in addressing longstanding water supply challenges in the village, which previously did not have a reliable source of water.

The handover ceremony held on Friday, was led by DWS Limpopo Provincial Head Lucy Kobe, alongside Capricorn District Municipality Mayor Mamedupi Teffo, Blouberg Local Municipality Mayor Maria Thamaga, and representatives from Lepelle Northern Water.

As part of the programme, the delegation conducted site visits, including to Selaelo Primary School, where boreholes have been installed to improve water access.

Kobe said the project includes two newly drilled boreholes and four refurbished ones, with a combined yield of 604.8 kilolitres per day at a 24-hour pumping cycle.

“In addition, the project includes five pump houses, a 200-kilolitre elevated steel tank, the construction of three kilometres of bulk pipeline and one kilometre of galvanised steel pipeline connecting boreholes to storage reservoirs, as well as the reticulation of 100 standpipes and palisade fencing for the infrastructure,” Kobe said.

Local government leaders welcomed the project, noting its positive impact on residents’ quality of life.

Kobe also urged communities to safeguard water infrastructure against vandalism and to use water responsibly to ensure long-term sustainability.

The handover forms part of activities marking National Water Month and contributes to the global observance of World Water Day on 22 March.

The event concluded with a community engagement session at Ditlou Sports Grounds, where residents expressed appreciation for ongoing service delivery efforts.

New water project to boost supply in Harry Gwala District

Meanwhile, the department, in partnership with the Harry Gwala District Municipality, is set to officially launch the Bhongweni Water Supply Project in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, as part of National Water Month.

The project is expected to significantly improve access to clean, safe and reliable water for underserved rural communities in the Harry Gwala District.

Located in Greater Kokstad, the Bhongweni Water Supply Project is funded by DWS and implemented by the Harry Gwala District Municipality.

Located in Greater Kokstad, the Bhongweni Water Supply Project is funded by the department and implemented by the municipality.

According to the department, the scope of work includes upgrading approximately five kilometres of secondary bulk pipeline to a 315mm diameter, running from the water treatment works to the distribution reservoir supplying the Bhongweni area.

“It also includes upgrading a service reservoir to a capacity of 2.5 megalitres, as well as the extension and upgrading of reticulation mains to accommodate both existing households and future developments,” the department said.

Once completed, the project will provide reliable water supply to 3,783 households in Bhongweni Township, with infrastructure designed to support up to 5,626 households by 2047.

“This forward-looking investment ensures long-term water security for a growing community and highlights government’s ongoing commitment to closing service delivery gaps and ensuring that no community is left behind in accessing this basic human right,” the department said.

For many households in Bhongweni and surrounding areas, the project represents a critical step toward dignity, improved health, and sustainable livelihoods. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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Zephyr Marine Services Signals New Era for Namibian Oil Services as Taimi Nangula Itembu Steps into Leadership

Source: APO – Report:

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Namibia’s rapidly expanding offshore energy sector has gained a critical new enabler with the launch of Zephyr Marine Services Pty Ltd – a locally owned company dedicated to marine asset logistics and operational solutions. At the helm is co-Founder and Executive Director Taimi Nangula Itembu, a respected Namibian professional now stepping into a leadership role focused on building domestic capacity to support the country’s maritime and offshore industries.

Itembu brings a strong track record of public sector, policy and international engagement to her new role. Her career spans key institutions including the Judiciary of Namibia and the Parliament of Namibia, where she contributed to legislative processes, governance oversight and institutional reform. She later built extensive experience in public and government affairs within the energy sector, gaining insight into stakeholder engagement, regulatory frameworks and the strategic priorities shaping Namibia’s oil and gas landscape.

She has held various positions at ExxonMobil, including Deputy Country Manager for Namibia, before moving on to a global role in Europe in Public and Government Affair. Her early career also includes work with the U.S. Department of State, strengthening U.S.-Namibian relations. Academically, Itembu holds a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Psychology from St. Francis Xavier University. Her transition into Zephyr Marine Services reflects a deliberate move toward building Namibian-led solutions.

“I am deeply grateful for my time at ExxonMobil, which provided an exceptional platform for growth, learning and professional development. The experience, mentorship and exposure I gained have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of Namibia’s energy landscape and the broader global industry. I leave with immense appreciation for the opportunities I was given and carry those lessons forward as I take on this next chapter,” Itembu said.

The launch of Zephyr Marine Services comes at a critical time for the Namibian oil and gas industry. With first oil on the cards for 2029 – led by the TotalEnergies-operated Venus and Mopane fields -, the demand for robust, locally-driven logistics, marine coordination and operational support continues to rise. TotalEnergies aims to reach FID for the Venus project in 2026 and recently signed an agreement with Galp Energia – former operator of the Mopane field – granting it operatorship of PEL 83. Under the terms of the deal, Galp will retain a stake in PEL 83 while assuming a 10% stake in the Venus project.

Other players are driving exploration activities in Namibia’s off- and onshore basins. In 2025, several milestones were achieved, including Rhino Resources’ light oil discovery at the Capricornus 1-X well in April. Chevron announced plans to embark on a 2026/2027 drilling campaign while ReconAfrica completed drilling at the Kavango West 1X well (onshore). Looking ahead, ReconAfrica plans to return to Kavango West 1X in 2026 to conduct a production test. Offshore, Shell could likely drill an exploration well at PEL 39, Chevron at PEL 82 and Rhino Resources is targeting 2 appraisal wells at Capricornus and Volans. Continued exploration across the Orange and Walvis Basins are expected through 2028, strengthening Namibia’s position as a future production hub.

Stepping into this picture, the launch of Zephyr Marine Services is expected to not only support upcoming drilling campaigns but position Namibian expertise at the heart of the country’s next development phase. Offering tailored, efficient and reliable solutions designed specifically for Namibia’s evolving offshore ecosystem, the company represents more than a service provider, but a broader shift toward local participation, innovation and ownership in the country’s energy value chain. Zephyr Marine Services is looking at building real industrial capability in Namibia, taking on high-barrier entry services and supporting the country’s move toward first oil production.

“This is about building something meaningful for Namibia. Zephyr Marine Services is rooted in the belief that Namibians should not only participate in our country’s energy future but actively shape it. We are creating solutions that understand local realities, respond to local challenges and contribute to long-term national growth,” said Itembu.

The company’s mission is clear: to support Namibia’s growing maritime and offshore industries with efficient, reliable and locally driven marine logistics solutions. From vessel coordination and asset management to operational planning, Zephyr Marine Services is positioning itself as a critical link between upstream operators and on-the-ground execution.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Home Affairs, BMA conducts oversight visit at Beitbridge 

Source: Government of South Africa

Home Affairs, BMA conducts oversight visit at Beitbridge 

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, together with the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, are today conducting a ministerial oversight visit to the Beitbridge Port of Entry.

Monday’s visit to the border in Limpopo, forms part of the BMA’s preparations for the upcoming Easter period, one of the busiest travel seasons across South Africa’s ports of entry. 

“The oversight aims to assess operational readiness, evaluate systems and personnel deployment, and ensure that measures are in place to facilitate the efficient movement of travellers while maintaining border security,” the BMA said in a statement. 

The Minister and the Commissioner will conduct borderline patrols to test deployed equipment during the visit. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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