Human and social issues https://www.gov.za/ en Acting President Angie Motshega: Memorial Service of Warrant Officer Thomas Shongwe https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/acting-president-angie-motshega-memorial-service-warrant-officer-thomas-shongwe-24 <span> Acting President Angie Motshega: Memorial Service of Warrant Officer Thomas Shongwe</span> <span><span>Londekile</span></span> <span>Fri, 11/25/2022 - 10:43</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2022-11-24T12:00:00Z">24 Nov 2022</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Keynote address by Acting President Ms Angie Motshega during the Memorial Service of W/O Shongwe, SAPS Training College</h3> <p>Programme Director,<br />Police Minister,<br />Cabinet colleagues,<br />Shongwe family,<br />Government officials at various levels,<br />Fellow mourners,</p> <p>On behalf of the Government and the People of South Africa, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the Shongwe family, the Deputy President and South African Police Service (SAPS) at large. </p> <p>On Sunday, the Presidential Protection Services (PPS) members were on duty with Deputy President His Excellency David Mabuza when a car accident occurred.</p> <p>The accident instantly claimed the life of 56-year-old Warrant Officer Thomas Shongwe. </p> <p>The accident occurred in Middelburg, Mpumalanga province.</p> <p>Two members of the PPS who were in one of the vehicles sustained mild to serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for critical medical attention.</p> <p>The Warrant Officer, who sustained mild injuries, has since been discharged while the Captain is still in critical condition in the hospital.</p> <p>As we know, 56-year-old Warrant Officer Thomas Shongwe was confirmed dead on the scene, and today, we gather to honour him. </p> <p>Programme director, it is indeed sad that history has conspired to have me today speaking about officer Shongwe, a friend to many, to some a colleague and to us a dedicated officer of the law in the past tense. </p> <p>Thus, it is neither an honour nor a privilege for me to speak at this memorial service. </p> <p>For me, the death of Warrant Officer Shongwe is still surreal. </p> <p>Yet he has indeed shuffled off this mortal coil.</p> <p>Born and bred in Nelspruit, 56-year-old Shongwe is survived by his wife and three children.</p> <p>Today we bid a reluctant and sad farewell to one of his generation’s finest law enforcement officers, Warrant Officer Shongwe. </p> <p>We must thank the Shongwe family for lending us their finest son to serve our homeland. </p> <p>We are grief-stricken and shaken to the core by the untimely passing of Warrant Officer Shongwe four years before his hard-earned retirement was due. </p> <p>Our grief and tears must not be mistaken for fear of death or the enemy. </p> <p>We are people of faith. </p> <p>We do not fear death. </p> <p>Faith has taught us to overcome death, for we will rise in glory at the end of the times. </p> <p>What we fear most is to live petty mundane lives with no purpose, without impact and without a bigger social cause that seeks to empower and serve others, not our egoist self. </p> <p>Warrant Officer lived a life of purpose, a life dedicated to service to his homeland.</p> <p>As a nation and a people, we are reeling from excruciating pain. </p> <p>A dedicated officer nearing retirement died in the line of duty serving his country; in particular, the Presidency as part of the Presidential Protection Services is no more. </p> <p>Sadly every day, we wake up to the news that yet another brave soldier, servant of the people, family member, friend, comrade and patriot has fallen in the road carnage.</p> <p>According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), estimated road deaths in South Africa claim over 14 000 lives yearly. </p> <p>Due to road deaths, we are burying some of our finest patriots, police officers, tried and tested cadres, leaders of various sectors, and our dearest family members.</p> <p>As I stand before you, the words of the Holy Bible ring in my head. </p> <p>In Psalm 34:18, the Holy Bible says, “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” </p> <p>In Matthew 5, verse 4: God says, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” </p> <p>In other words, God promises us His mercy and compassion in our darkest hours like today.  </p> <p>For, He promised never to forsake us, even if we are knee-deep in sin. </p> <p>In honesty, salvation is for all who have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. </p> <p>Programme Director, today is neither the time nor the place to apportion blame. </p> <p>Let us accept that our Officer Shongwe has slipped to the next world. </p> <p>Like a line in a haunting Alice Walker poem, today we proclaim sorrowfully: Goodnight, Warrant Officer; we will see you in the morning. </p> <p>Despite the gruesome nature of the accident, I am confident that Warrant Officer Shongwe’s soul is at peace. </p> <p>He suffers no more. </p> <p>The only legacy we can carry forward in the memory of Officer Shongwe is to know and understand that road safety is everybody’s responsibility, including protection officers.</p> <p>It is cold comfort that he died instantly and thus suffered less, and now he is at rest and in a better place. </p> <p>He is at peace and already “seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”</p> <p>Today we mourn the tragic loss of a life that made policing fashionable and serving others routine. </p> <p>From what I hear from Shongwe’s colleagues, he was a great man, an officer with an unblemished record, truly a man of integrity. </p> <p>For the duration of his service, he was attached to the protection security services division, where he served as an in-transit VIP protector. </p> <p>From 1994 to 2018, he rendered protection services to the office of the premier in Mpumalanga before being transferred to the presidential protection services component, where he served as a close protector for our Deputy President. </p> <p>He believed in the power of the Police to protect others at the risk of his life. </p> <p>Policing is one of the most important functions undertaken by every sovereign government, including ours. </p> <p>For the state machinery, the Police is an inevitable organ that would ensure the maintenance of law and order and the first link in the criminal justice system.</p> <p>Warrant Officer Shongwe served the Blue line with honour. </p> <p>It is important to emphasise this point; the mission of the South African Police Service, of which Warrant Officer Shongwe was a valuable member, is to: prevent and combat anything that may threaten the safety and security of any community.</p> <p>Furthermore, Police must investigate any crimes that threaten the safety and security of any community, ensure offenders are brought to justice, and participate in efforts to address the root causes of crime.</p> <p>In other words, Warrant Officer Shongwe and his colleagues are our first line of defence against malcontents, gangs and terrorists. </p> <p>We salute Warrant Office Shongwe for his absolute dedication to the honourable duty of policing. </p> <p>Therefore, he died in the line of duty, doing what he loved the most, serving others, not himself. </p> <p>Like a true soldier, he died with his boots on. </p> <p>Warrant Officer Shongwe gave a new meaning to the word gentleman as a person. </p> <p>He was a gentleman in the proper English sense of the word. </p> <p>He exuded calmness and gentleness despite his finest training in the use of weapons and the gruelling nature of policing. </p> <p>He was indeed one of a kind. </p> <p>We are indeed poorer without him. <br />However, the Shongwe family must take solace in that your loss is shared across the length and breadth of our beautiful land.  National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola has described Warrant Officer Shongwe as a quiet, punctual, committed and disciplined member who served his country with distinction.<br /><br />General Masemola decried the loss of Officer Shongwe, describing it as a great loss to the organisation (SAPS) and the community at large. </p> <p>Shongwe was no ordinary police officer but a protection officer who looked after someone of a statue of a Deputy President of the Republic. </p> <p>It is a position of trust fraught with danger. </p> <p>He excelled, becoming more than an officer to the Deputy President but part of his family. </p> <p>He spent more hours at work than with his own family. </p> <p>He lived and breathed policing and close protection. </p> <p>Officer Shongwe had 31 years of uninterrupted service, joining the Police in 1991 as a student constable. </p> <p>He was an incorruptible and loyal servant of the people.</p> <p>In the true meaning of the Biblical parables, “he (Officer Shongwe) was always clothed with strength and dignity”.</p> <p>Today, we reluctantly say he has run his race.</p> <p>To all friends, comrades and family, we say, ‘Death, be not proud.’ </p> <p>As John Donne insisted many centuries ago that death is a feeble enemy, ‘One short sleep past, we wake eternally / And death shall be no more.’</p> <p>Rest easy, officer; we will see you in the morning. </p> <p>I thank you.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.thepresidency.gov.za/" target="_blank">The Presidency</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/906" hreflang="en">The Presidency</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:43:06 +0000 Londekile 817689 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/acting-president-angie-motshega-memorial-service-warrant-officer-thomas-shongwe-24#comments Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs on 2015 Initiation Season Preliminary Report https://www.gov.za/speeches/co-operative-governance-and-traditional-affairs-2015-initiation-season-preliminary-report <span> Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs on 2015 Initiation Season Preliminary Report</span> <span><span>lebang</span></span> <span>Tue, 12/22/2015 - 12:25</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2015-12-22T12:00:00Z">22 Dec 2015</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Traditional Leaders to account for deaths in their areas</h3> <p>The December 2015 initiation season has finally drawn to a close with many initiates having gone home in various parts of the Eastern Cape Province. Whilst many families celebrate the safe passage of their sons to manhood through imigidi (traditional celebrations) others mourn the death of their loved ones.</p> <p>“We cry and mourn with the bereaved families during this difficult time in their lives,” said Cogta MEC Fikile Xasa.</p> <p>In line with the circular issued by MEC Xasa at the beginning of the season outlining the responsibilities and obligations of traditional leaders to curb deaths, all traditional leaders in areas where deaths have occurred will be expected to provide full account.</p> <p>To date, the Province is in under a dark cloud mourning the death of 40 young lives. The breakdown per district municipality is as follows, Chris Hani 15, Joe Gqabi 8, Alfred Nzo 6, OR Tambo 6, Amathole 4 and Buffalo City 1.</p> <p>Commenting on the deaths, MEC Xasa said the number of illegal initiation schools continues to grow with underage children either undergoing the ritual without parental consent through kidnapped. Many initiates died due to dehydration because traditional nurses including family members refuse to give water to initiates.</p> <p>Other deaths are as a result of assaults and septicaemia. MEC Xasa said these could have been avoided if there was constant monitoring and immediate referral to hospitals of the sick by parents and amakhankatha (traditional nurses).</p> <p>“It is clear that in some parts of the Province parents and elders have taken a back seat and children taken over the running of the ritual. Chris Hani and Joe Gqabi recorded the high number of deaths due to hot weather conditions there. However, our plans have resulted in decreased number of deaths in OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo and zero deaths in Sarah Baartman and Nelson Mandela Metro municipalities. We will meet early next year to review our initiation monitoring strategy,” said MEC Xasa.</p> <p>He thanked officials from the department for working hard to save lives through monitoring visits.</p> <p>MEC Xasa added that the hands on support from various stakeholders including traditional initiation Forums, traditional leaders, Departments of Health and Social Development, SAPS, municipalities, Community Development Foundation of South Africa (Codefsa) made a difference thus ensuring the safe passage of the boys to manhood. Without their support the number of deaths could have been more.</p> <p>Our monitoring teams reached out to more than 10 000 initiates of which in excess of 300 were rescued and sent to hospitals and traditional centres.</p> <p>The chairperson of the Eastern Cape House of Traditional Leaders (ECHTL), Nkosi Ngangomhlaba Matanzima had this to say, “Our traditional leaders are not serious about initiation at all. It is only few of them who play an active role to save lives. Many traditional leaders are virtually absent and that frustrates the work of our monitoring teams on the ground.” Ends.</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Mamnkeli Ngam<br />Cell: 071 685 7981</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.cogta.gov.za" target="_blank">Department of Cooperative Governance</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/917" hreflang="en">Department of Cooperative Governance</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Tue, 22 Dec 2015 10:25:56 +0000 lebang 747727 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/co-operative-governance-and-traditional-affairs-2015-initiation-season-preliminary-report#comments Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs congratulates Parks Tau on appointment as president UCLG https://www.gov.za/speeches/cooperative-governance-and-traditional-affairs-congratulates-parks-tau-appointment <span> Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs congratulates Parks Tau on appointment as president UCLG</span> <span><span>lebang</span></span> <span>Mon, 10/17/2016 - 08:17</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2016-10-16T12:00:00Z">16 Oct 2016</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3> COGTA congratulates Parks Tau on appointment as president UCLG</h3> <p>The Ministry for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) congratulates former Johannesburg mayor and current Chairperson of the South African Local Government Association (Salga), Mr Parks Tau for his appointment as the president of the United Cities and Local Government (UCLG) organisation for a three-year term.</p> <p>His election took place at the 5th UCLG congress world summit of local and regional leaders in Colombia’s capital city of Bogota. His appointment is an important milestone and a further endorsement of the strategic importance of the South Africans Local Government Association (SALGA).</p> <p>Through his election, Parks Tau will  drive the entire local government fraternity to achieve its key objectives, amongst which is the Paris Accord on Climate Change, the New Urban Agenda (Habitat III), together with the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction.</p> <p>“We wish him well as he begins his three years term at the helm of this important a platform that will lead the implementation of major programmes across the world. As CoGTA, will continue to provide support to SALGA as active and leading participants of UCLG”, said Minister van Rooyen.</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Legadima Leso<br />Cell: 083 378 9495</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.cogta.gov.za" target="_blank">Department of Cooperative Governance</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/917" hreflang="en">Department of Cooperative Governance</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Mon, 17 Oct 2016 06:17:19 +0000 lebang 757107 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/cooperative-governance-and-traditional-affairs-congratulates-parks-tau-appointment#comments Department of Women on Omotoso trial https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/department-women-omotoso-trial-22-oct-2018 <span> Department of Women on Omotoso trial</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Mon, 10/22/2018 - 14:04</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2018-10-22T12:00:00Z">22 Oct 2018</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Media Statement by Government, Civil Society, Academia, Feminist Activists, and the Private Sector on the Omotoso trial</h3> <p>On behalf of the democratic government of South Africa, and in my capacity as the Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Women, I have deliberated on the various themes that converge around the case against Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused.</p> <p>We condemn the acts of gender based violence that occurred in the guise of religion and faith. Today we find adults who took children to places of worship who are accomplices since they also contributed to the grooming of these children as sex slaves. We condemn the hijacking and use of our own buildings and sites for illegal religious practices. What is happening in these places of worship is human trafficking.</p> <p>Guided by the National Policy Framework for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality, which establishes a clear vision and framework for gender mainstreaming across laws, policies, procedures and practices pertaining to gendered inequalities - we acknowledge that the National Gender Machinery in government cannot shift public policy agendas for women without the participation of organisations of civil society.</p> <p>The Ministry of Women has thus invited all pillars of the democratic state to strengthen our national efforts towards a society that realises a South Africa free of all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, and sexual orientation.</p> <p>I call upon all South Africans to revisit parenting and strengthen of family systems. It is not normal that more than 60% of children are growing in single-parent households, and that we have moved away from the principle of “it takes a village to raise a child.” We also know that many parents work away from home. Children are vulnerable from the time they leave school. We must therefore revisit and support school-based clubs that support the life-orientation curriculum.</p> <p>Together, we acknowledge that the case against Omotoso case brings to the fore the ongoing historical public debate regarding the “Women and Law Complexity”. Central to this theme is the historical exclusion of women from public life through legal reinforcements, and the use of the law to perpetuate and condone gendered violations of human rights. What this case brings to the fore is the practice of abusers and pedophiles opening churches to lure unsuspecting women and their children in the guise of religion and faith.</p> <p>United with the Ministry of Justice; the Portfolio Committee on Women in the Presidency representing Parliament; the Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Rights Commission; the Commission for Gender Equality; the Soul City Institute; Academics; Musicians; Feminists and Gender Activists from across the country, we have called this media conference to respond urgently to social perversions that affect women the most.</p> <p>As the Ministry responsible for women, we remain vigilant against the scourge of violence that affects South African women daily. We will stop at nothing to hold the responsible government departments tasked with ensuring dignity to victims of crime. We would like to question the Department of Correctional Services about the preferential treatment that Mr Omotoso is allegedly receiving in their facilities. We are also aware of the many cases of intimidation against women who have spoken up against Timothy Omotoso. We note with concern the social media comments going around. We wish to warn all those who intimidate these women that they are accomplices in the crime of abuse that Omotoso is accused of.</p> <p>The issue of dealing with femicide is also urgent. We know that in South Africa the rate of femicide is four-times higher than the global average. We need to create a supportive environment that enables young women to identify and leave abusive relationships.</p> <p>We will therefore be embarking on a process of planning towards public hearings with various stakeholders against Gender-Based Violence and all Forms of Abuses in the Guise of religion and faith.</p> <p>Our aim is to break the silencing hold that these institutions have over women. We are aware that few women report cases of abuse and even fewer reach the criminal justice system. Even in the system, women are often re-victimised. These hearings will offer women a platform to speak about their experiences. They will also shed the veil of shame that comes with being abused. And finally heal the pain they have been carrying alone.</p> <p>The hearings will be national, and will invite women to speak out against their experiences of abuses in the guise of religion and faith. These abuses can be in churches, in synagogues, in mosques, on Mountains, under the sea and in heaven above.</p> <p>Concurrent to the hearings, we will be revisiting the Sexual Offences Act, the Domestic Violence Act and the Criminal Procedures Act, with the view to strengthen our laws to protect women. Cross Examination should not be a platform used by legal practitioners to enforce secondary trauma on witnesses. We believe the advocate’s conduct was an overreach and we will be consulting the Bar Council of Advocates to address this. The law must be protective of victims and survivors in its processes towards justice. Any acts that are found to cause secondary trauma to victims of crime should be addressed immediately by all affected stakeholders, including the Law Society of South Africa as Lawyers and Prosecutors are required to observe the rules of courts in executing their duties.</p> <p>We will also be meeting with the Departments of Home Affairs and International Relations to deliberate on the theme of migration as it pertains to this case in particular, but also on the many unregulated religious institutions headed by foreign nationals.</p> <p>Enquiries and RSVP:  <br />Mandla Tshabalala<br />Ministry in the Presidency Responsible for Women<br />Cell: 060 978 1162<br />E-mail: <a href="mailto:mandla.tshabalala@women.gov.za">mandla.tshabalala@women.gov.za</a></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.women.gov.za/owa/" target="_blank">Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/881" hreflang="en">Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Mon, 22 Oct 2018 12:04:07 +0000 Vuyelwa 783690 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/department-women-omotoso-trial-22-oct-2018#comments Free State mourns the passing of long-serving employee, Moses Mogamise https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/free-state-mourns-passing-long-serving-employee-moses-mogamise-07-sep-2020 <span> Free State mourns the passing of long-serving employee, Moses Mogamise</span> <span><span>Londekile</span></span> <span>Mon, 09/07/2020 - 14:36</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-09-07T12:00:00Z">07 Sep 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Free State Provincial Government has learnt with shock and sadness about the passing of Moses Mogamise, long-serving Deputy Director: Executive Secretariat Services, in the Inner Office of the Director-General of the Free State Province. Mogamise took ill a week ago, and was subsequently admitted to the Busamed Hospital in Bloemfontein, where he regrettably passed away on the evening of Saturday, 05 September 2020.<br /><br />Affectionately known as ‘Bra Moss’, the larger-than-life Mogamise was a dedicated and veteran public servant, whose experience in the public service spans more than two decades.<br /><br />Mogamise had been in government since the first administration of Democratic South Africa, in 1994, as the Office Manager of the then Member of Executive Council (MEC) for Safety and Security. In later years, he joined the Department of the Premier, serving under numerous Directors General in the Executive Secretariat Services unit.<br /><br />“On behalf of the administration of the Free State Provincial Government, I wish to send heartfelt condolences to the family, colleagues, friends, and loved ones of Mogamise. We have lost a dedicated and humble colleague, who often went beyond the call of duty. He has run a prolific race, and may his soul rest in peace”, said the Director-General (DG), Kopung Ralikontsane.<br /><br />Having been, by and large, responsible for Secretariat Services for the Forum of Heads of Department (FOHOD), chaired by the DG, Mogamise served the Free State Provincial Government, and by extension the people of the province, with the utmost distinction.<br /><br />A connoisseur of governance, Mogamise was responsible, for the longest time, for the coordination and functioning of FOHOD, which sits fortnightly.<br /><br />The late former Premier of the Free State, Winkie Direko – a teacher by profession, who worked with Mogamise during her tenure as Premier from 1999 to 2004, once described Mogamise as one of the “the brightest people she had ever worked with”.<br /><br />The Premier of the Free State, Sisi Ntombela has remembered Mogamise as a dedicated public servant who spoke less yet did more, in emancipating his people from the trappings of poverty, unemployment and inequality, through his interventions as Rapporteur and Executive Secretary of FOHOD, and more often than not, in the line of duty, assisted the Secretariat of the Executive Council (EXCO). "We are hopeful that those deeply affected by his untimely departure, will find comfort during this difficult period”, said Premier Ntombela.<br /><br />Funeral arrangements of the late Mogamise will be communicated in due course, after thorough consultation with the immediate family.<br /><br />Enquires:<br />Setjhaba K. Maphalla<br />Head of Communication<br />Office of the Premier<br />Cell: 071 302 2591<br />E-mail: <a href="mailto:setjhaba.maphalla@fspremier.gov.za">setjhaba.maphalla@fspremier.gov.za</a></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-province field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Province</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/928" hreflang="en">Free State</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.freestateonline.fs.gov.za/" target="_blank">Free State Provincial Government </a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-free-state field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/free-state/free-state-provincial-government" hreflang="en">Free State Provincial Government</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Mon, 07 Sep 2020 12:36:59 +0000 Londekile 800694 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/free-state-mourns-passing-long-serving-employee-moses-mogamise-07-sep-2020#comments Government Communications and Information System mourns passing of communicators https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/government-communications-and-information-system-mourns-passing-communicators <span> Government Communications and Information System mourns passing of communicators</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Tue, 06/23/2020 - 20:53</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-06-23T12:00:00Z">23 Jun 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Government Communications and Information System (GCIS) mourns the loss of two seasoned government communicators from the Eastern Cape, Mr Mzobanzi Jikazana and Mr Gcobani Maswana.</p> <p>Their untimely passing is a loss to government communication. Mr Jikazana was the Director of Communication at the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality and passed away on 20 June, 2020. Prior to moving to the Eastern Cape, Jikazana worked at the GCIS and contributed immensely to the Media Engagement Chief Directorate through his vast experiences in the fields of journalism and communications.</p> <p>Mr Maswana was the Head of Communications at the provincial Department of Social Development and passed away today, 23 June 2020. They both contributed immensely to strengthening government's effort to create an informed citizenry and served the people of Eastern Cape selflessly and with dedication.</p> <p>The GCIS sends its deepest condolences to both families, their colleagues and friends. May their souls rest in peace.</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Phumla Williams<br />Cell: 083 501 0139</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gcis.gov.za" target="_blank">Government Communications</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/913" hreflang="en">Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Tue, 23 Jun 2020 18:53:38 +0000 Vuyelwa 798809 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/government-communications-and-information-system-mourns-passing-communicators#comments Government provides update on arrangements for Special Official Funeral of the late Advocate George Bizos https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/government-provides-update-arrangements-special-official-funeral-late <span> Government provides update on arrangements for Special Official Funeral of the late Advocate George Bizos</span> <span><span>Londekile</span></span> <span>Tue, 09/15/2020 - 16:42</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-09-15T12:00:00Z">15 Sep 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Government  informs South Africans and the world on the details pertaining to the Special Official Funeral of the late human rights lawyer and social activist Advocate George Bizos.  <br /> <br />Advocate George Bizos passed away at the age of 92 in the afternoon of Wednesday, 09 September 2020.  President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that he will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 1. <br /> <br /><strong>1.    Funeral service  and Burial</strong></p> <p>The funeral service of Advocate Bizos will take place at the Greek Orthodox Church in Johannesburg on Thursday, 17 September 2020 starting from 11h00. This will be followed by a burial at Westpark Cemetery in Randburg, Johannesburg. <br /><strong> <br />2.    Messages of Condolence</strong><br /> <br />Messages of condolences to the family and friends of Advocate Bizos  can be done through an online tribute page as well as an email address provided below:<br /> <br />Tribute page: <a href="https://www.gov.za/GeorgeBizos">https://www.gov.za/GeorgeBizos</a><br /> <br />Email address: <a href="mailto:condolences@gcis.gov.za">condolences@gcis.gov.za</a><br /> <br /><strong>3.    Broadcast and Live Feed  </strong><br /> <br />The funeral service will be broadcast live on the SABC and other major broadcast channels.  In addition, arrangements have been made for  the service to be streamed live on the following government online platforms:   </p> <ul><li>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernmentSA&nbsp">https://twitter.com/GovernmentSA&nbsp</a>;</li> <li>Facebook: <a href="https://web.facebook.com/GovernmentZA">https://web.facebook.com/GovernmentZA</a></li> <li>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/GovernmentZA&nbsp">https://www.youtube.com/user/GovernmentZA&nbsp</a>;</li> </ul><p>These measures are also to assist those who may not be able to physically attend the funeral due to the current COVID-19 lockdown level 2 regulations which stipulate that gatherings for funerals may not exceed fifty (50) people.  <br /> <br />Enquiries:<br />Phumla Williams<br />GCIS Director-General<br />Cell: 083 5010 139</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gcis.gov.za" target="_blank">Government Communications</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/913" hreflang="en">Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Tue, 15 Sep 2020 14:42:18 +0000 Londekile 800887 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/government-provides-update-arrangements-special-official-funeral-late#comments International Relations and Cooperation on 2018 Ubuntu Awards https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/international-relations-and-cooperation-2018-ubuntu-awards-14-dec-2017 <span> International Relations and Cooperation on 2018 Ubuntu Awards</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Thu, 12/14/2017 - 11:15</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-12-14T12:00:00Z">14 Dec 2017</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Department of International Relations and Cooperation presents the annual Ubuntu Awards 2018. The Awards aim to celebrate South Africans who display excellence and fly the country's flag high internationally. The next Ubuntu Awards will be held on Saturday 10th February 2018 in Cape Town. Now in their fourth year, the Awards are carried live on national television to a viewership of over 100 million people across the continent. 2018 marks the centenary of the first democratically elected President of South Africa, Mr Nelson Mandela. The life and times of Nelson Mandela with a specific focus on his role as peace maker and champion of human rights, are therefore the main theme of the 2018 Ubuntu Awards – “Honouring Madiba: A Global Champion of Human Rights, Peace and Reconciliation.”</p> <p>The Ubuntu Awards recognise South African citizens who embody the principles of Nelson Mandela, which include unity and internationalism. In line with this year’s theme, we will also be looking for South Africans that have actively promoted peace, human dignity and reconciliation. The nomination and voting process culminate in a glittering awards ceremony that brings together 600 guests comprised of leaders from business and civil society, all foreign Ambassadors accredited to South Africa, Cabinet ministers and celebrities.</p> <p>Nominations are now open for everyone to vote for South Africans they believe are doing a stellar job of representing the country across the globe. Go to <a href="https://www.ubuntuawards.co.za/">www.ubuntuawards.co.za</a> for more information about the judges, as well as past winners and to cast a vote.</p> <p>We also have up to date information on our social media platforms:</p> <ul><li>Twitter = @DIRCO_ZA</li> <li>Facebook = @DIRCOZA</li> </ul><p>As a lead up  to the event and to create awareness about the nomination processes we are available to do studio or telephonic interviews and to give background on the awards should you wish to engage us. Your favourable response to this request is highly appreciated. For further communication, clarity and questions, confirming interest and for scheduling interviews please email Ms Linah Ledwaba at <a href="mailto:ledwabal@dirco.gov.za">ledwabal@dirco.gov.za</a>; copy <a href="mailto:mlangenir@dirco.gov.za">mlangenir@dirco.gov.za</a> and <a href="mailto:rachidis@dirco.gov.za">rachidis@dirco.gov.za</a>.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.dirco.gov.za/" target="_blank">Department of International Relations and Cooperation</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/909" hreflang="en">Department of International Relations and Cooperation</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Thu, 14 Dec 2017 09:15:48 +0000 Vuyelwa 775851 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/international-relations-and-cooperation-2018-ubuntu-awards-14-dec-2017#comments KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs commemorates anniversary of former President Nelson Mandela's passing, 5 Dec https://www.gov.za/speeches/kzn-commemorate-president-mandelas-passing-celebrating-his-local-government-legacy-4-dec <span> KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs commemorates anniversary of former President Nelson Mandela's passing, 5 Dec</span> <span><span>lebang</span></span> <span>Fri, 12/04/2015 - 11:10</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2015-12-04T12:00:00Z">04 Dec 2015</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>KZN to host massive rally in commemoration of President Mandela and celebrate 15 years of democratic government in Ladysmith</h3> <p>The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) will commemorate the second anniversary of the passing of former President Nelson Mandela by celebrating his role in the creation of the sphere of local government.  This occasion also coincides with the fifteenth birthday of democratic local government in South Africa which was also established on the 5<sup>th</sup> of December 2000.</p> <p>The sphere of local government is one of the visionary legacies of President Mandela and has in its 15 years of existence altered the development landscape of South Africa and ensured that democracy is entrenched in every part of the country.</p> <p>“We have come a long way since 5 December 2000 when the democratic local government institutions, as we know them today, were formally established. Our municipalities have, during this time, brought about a wholesale socio-economic transformation in the lives of our communities,” said KZN MEC for Cogta Nomusa Dube-Ncube.</p> <p>Mayors from across the province of KwaZulu-Natal including former councillors who formed the first generation and thousands of community members are expected to attend.</p> <p>The details of the celebratory rally are as follows:</p> <p>Date: Saturday, 5 December 2015<br />Time: 11h00<br />Venue:  Ladysmith Indoor Sports Centre, eMnambithi</p> <p>Members of the media are cordially invited to attend.</p> <p>For more information please contact: KZN Cogta spokespersons, 082 884 2403 or Msawakhe Mayisela, 060 966 4220</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-province field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Province</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/930" hreflang="en">KwaZulu-Natal</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-speech-event-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Event Category</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/event-category/government-activities" hreflang="en">Government activities</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.kzncogta.gov.za/" target="_blank">KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs </a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-kwazulu-natal field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/kwazulu-natal/kwazulu-natal-cooperative-governance-and-traditional-affairs" hreflang="en">KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/950" hreflang="en">Media advisories</a></div> Fri, 04 Dec 2015 09:10:41 +0000 lebang 747172 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/kzn-commemorate-president-mandelas-passing-celebrating-his-local-government-legacy-4-dec#comments KwaZulu-Natal Education mourns tragic passing of Mpolweni High School learner https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/kwazulu-natal-education-mourns-tragic-passing-mpolweni-high-school-learner-04 <span> KwaZulu-Natal Education mourns tragic passing of Mpolweni High School learner</span> <span><span>Estelle Greeff</span></span> <span>Mon, 01/06/2020 - 07:16</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-01-04T12:00:00Z">04 Jan 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal is mourning the tragic passing of a grade 11 schoolboy who drowned in Ballito beach in Durban on Thursday, 02 January 2020. The deceased was a learner at Mpolweni High School under Umgungundlovu District in KwaZulu-Natal province.</p> <p>Even though details around the incident remain sketchy, preliminary information suggests that the deceased had travelled to the beach with a group of friends. His body has since been retrieved from the sea by relevant authorities.</p> <p>"On behalf of the entire Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal, I wish to send our deep condolences following this sad news. Our prayers are with his family, friends, as well as his schoolmates during this time of grief"- KZN Education MEC Kwazi Mshengu.</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Kwazi Mthethwa - Media Liaison: Deputy Director<br />Cell: 078 264 616<br />Fax: 086 654 6089</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-province field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Province</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/930" hreflang="en">KwaZulu-Natal</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.kzneducation.gov.za/" target="_blank">KwaZulu-Natal Education </a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/652" hreflang="en">Human and social issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-kwazulu-natal field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/kwazulu-natal/kwazulu-natal-education" hreflang="en">KwaZulu-Natal Education</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Mon, 06 Jan 2020 05:16:37 +0000 Estelle Greeff 794463 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/kwazulu-natal-education-mourns-tragic-passing-mpolweni-high-school-learner-04#comments