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South Africa: Despite Decline, KZN Remains Second-Highest In HIV Prevalence Rate

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South Africa: Despite Decline, KZN Remains Second-Highest In HIV Prevalence Rate

KwaZulu-Natal has recorded the second-highest HIV prevalence rate at 16% in 2022, down from 18% in 2017.

According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), this translates to 1 980 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in KwaZulu-Natal, which was a decline from 1 990 000 in 2017.

The information is based on the findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI).

SAnews reported last week that Mpumalanga now has the highest HIV prevalence at 17.4% in 2022, which translates to an estimated 890 000 (PLHIV) in the province.

According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the survey showed that in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was higher among those aged 25 to 49 (31.1%), for both females (38.4%) and males (21.5%).

HIV prevalence was also higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (20%).

“HIV prevalence peaked at 44.5% among those aged 45 to 49 in 2022 from 39.7% in 2017 among those aged 35 to 39, indicating a possibility of continuing infections among older people. HIV prevalence had decreased by 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017,” Zuma said.

By district, in 2022, HIV prevalence was highest in uMgungundlovu (19.5%).

The data presented are for eight priority districts within KwaZulu-Natal namely, eThekwini, Harry Gwala, King Cetshwayo, Ugu, uMgungundlovu, uThukela, Zululand and uMkhanyakude districts, as per the study protocol.

Antiretroviral treatment 

Antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage in KwaZulu-Natal increased to 87.3% in 2022, from 71.2% in 2017.

The ART coverage estimate translates to an estimated 1 609 000 PLHIV in the province receiving treatment in 2022.

In 2022, ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lowest among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (62.8%) compared to other age groups.

ART use was also lower among both males (58.8%) and females (64%) in this age group compared to other age groups.

Among children aged zero to 14, ART use among males was 83.5% compared to females (65.9%). Among rural formal areas, ART use among males (93.3%) was comparable to females (93.6%).

The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and AIDS, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.

Viral load suppression 

On the viral load suppression, the survey further revealed that, in 2022, among all provinces, KwaZulu-Natal had the highest proportion of all PLHIV with VLS (86.8%), having increased from 2017 (67.8%).

Knowledge of HIV status

The professor expressed concern that those aged between 25 and 49 accounted for the majority of PLHIV in the province (68.3%) who were unaware of their HIV status (54.5%), aware but not on ART (63.5%), and on ART but not virally suppressed (66.4%).

“However, adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 8.5% of all PLHIV, but 28.4% of those unaware of their HIV status, 19.1% of those aware but not on ART and 15.7% of those on ART but not virally suppressed.”

Sex debut

Regarding the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma noted that, in KwaZulu-Natal, there was no change in the proportion of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who reported having sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (8.2%) compared to 2022 (8.6%).

However, sexual debut before the age of 15 among adolescents and youth between 15 and 24 years in 2022 was higher among males (12.3%) than females (4.8%).

The survey revealed that 11% of people aged 15 and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022 compared to 9.4% in 2017.

The proportion of people aged 15 and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was five-fold higher among males (18.6%), compared to females (3.5%), and 1.5-fold higher among those aged 15 to 24 (16.3%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (10.9%).

The proportion of people who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in Harry Gwala (14.1%) and lowest in uThukela (7.6%).

Condom use

Regarding condom use, the survey revealed that 32.8% reported using a condom with the most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 44.9% in 2017, representing a 12.1% decline.

In KwaZulu-Natal, a higher proportion also reported that they never (45.2%) used a condom with their most recent sexual partner.

“Only 9.3% reported that they used condoms almost every time.”

Meanwhile, consistency of condom uses with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 and older in the province was higher among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (26.7%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (16.5%).

“However, nearly 60% of youth reported only using a condom sometimes or never.”

Zuma recommended a long-term strategy to care for people in an ageing HIV epidemic as well as tailored interventions to address gaps in the “clinical cascade”.

“We also recommend a continued focus on increasing coverage and demand for medical male circumcision among males aged 15 and older. We must also enhance public awareness and uptake of effective HIV prevention measures, such as regular HIV testing, condoms and PrEP [pre-exposure prophylaxis],” Zuma added.

 

KwaZulu-Natal has recorded the second-highest HIV prevalence rate at 16% in 2022, down from 18% in 2017.

According to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), this translates to 1 980 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in KwaZulu-Natal, which was a decline from 1 990 000 in 2017.

The information is based on the findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI).

SAnews reported last week that Mpumalanga now has the highest HIV prevalence at 17.4% in 2022, which translates to an estimated 890 000 (PLHIV) in the province.

According to the overall principal investigator of the study, the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the survey showed that in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was higher among those aged 25 to 49 (31.1%), for both females (38.4%) and males (21.5%).

HIV prevalence was also higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (20%).

“HIV prevalence peaked at 44.5% among those aged 45 to 49 in 2022 from 39.7% in 2017 among those aged 35 to 39, indicating a possibility of continuing infections among older people. HIV prevalence had decreased by 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017,” Zuma said.

By district, in 2022, HIV prevalence was highest in uMgungundlovu (19.5%).

The data presented are for eight priority districts within KwaZulu-Natal namely, eThekwini, Harry Gwala, King Cetshwayo, Ugu, uMgungundlovu, uThukela, Zululand and uMkhanyakude districts, as per the study protocol.

Antiretroviral treatment 

Antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage in KwaZulu-Natal increased to 87.3% in 2022, from 71.2% in 2017.

The ART coverage estimate translates to an estimated 1 609 000 PLHIV in the province receiving treatment in 2022.

In 2022, ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lowest among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (62.8%) compared to other age groups.

ART use was also lower among both males (58.8%) and females (64%) in this age group compared to other age groups.

Among children aged zero to 14, ART use among males was 83.5% compared to females (65.9%). Among rural formal areas, ART use among males (93.3%) was comparable to females (93.6%).

The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and AIDS, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.

Viral load suppression 

On the viral load suppression, the survey further revealed that, in 2022, among all provinces, KwaZulu-Natal had the highest proportion of all PLHIV with VLS (86.8%), having increased from 2017 (67.8%).

Knowledge of HIV status

The professor expressed concern that those aged between 25 and 49 accounted for the majority of PLHIV in the province (68.3%) who were unaware of their HIV status (54.5%), aware but not on ART (63.5%), and on ART but not virally suppressed (66.4%).

“However, adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 8.5% of all PLHIV, but 28.4% of those unaware of their HIV status, 19.1% of those aware but not on ART and 15.7% of those on ART but not virally suppressed.”

Sex debut

Regarding the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma noted that, in KwaZulu-Natal, there was no change in the proportion of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who reported having sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (8.2%) compared to 2022 (8.6%).

However, sexual debut before the age of 15 among adolescents and youth between 15 and 24 years in 2022 was higher among males (12.3%) than females (4.8%).

The survey revealed that 11% of people aged 15 and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022 compared to 9.4% in 2017.

The proportion of people aged 15 and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was five-fold higher among males (18.6%), compared to females (3.5%), and 1.5-fold higher among those aged 15 to 24 (16.3%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (10.9%).

The proportion of people who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in Harry Gwala (14.1%) and lowest in uThukela (7.6%).

Condom use

Regarding condom use, the survey revealed that 32.8% reported using a condom with the most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 44.9% in 2017, representing a 12.1% decline.

In KwaZulu-Natal, a higher proportion also reported that they never (45.2%) used a condom with their most recent sexual partner.

“Only 9.3% reported that they used condoms almost every time.”

Meanwhile, consistency of condom uses with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 and older in the province was higher among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (26.7%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (16.5%).

“However, nearly 60% of youth reported only using a condom sometimes or never.”

Zuma recommended a long-term strategy to care for people in an ageing HIV epidemic as well as tailored interventions to address gaps in the “clinical cascade”.

“We also recommend a continued focus on increasing coverage and demand for medical male circumcision among males aged 15 and older. We must also enhance public awareness and uptake of effective HIV prevention measures, such as regular HIV testing, condoms and PrEP [pre-exposure prophylaxis],” Zuma added.

SAnews.gov.za

 

Nigeria: Why EFCC Rejects Yahaya Bello’s Surrender

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Nigeria: Why EFCC Rejects Yahaya Bello’s Surrender

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly criticized former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, accusing him of attempting to obstruct justice and avoid facing his ongoing money laundering charges. In a statement released on Wednesday, the anti-graft agency expressed its dissatisfaction with Bello’s dramatic visit to the EFCC headquarters last week, which it described as a calculated ploy to evade due legal process and manipulate public sentiment.

Bello is currently facing an 18-count charge of money laundering totalling N80.2 billion, filed by the EFCC. Despite his legal team’s assurance that he would appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja, the former governor has yet to formally respond to the charges.

The EFCC condemned Bello’s actions, particularly his claim that an attempted arrest at the Kogi State Governor’s Lodge was part of an assassination plot.

The commission dismissed this assertion as a baseless tactic aimed at discrediting the agency, marking the first time such an allegation has been made against the EFCC in its two decades of operation. The agency maintained that these claims were nothing more than a distraction from the real legal issues.

The commission revealed that Bello’s high-profile visit to its headquarters on September 18, accompanied by a large security detail and a sitting governor, raised suspicions. The EFCC declined to accept his surrender, citing concerns about his previous evasion of its summons and intelligence suggesting ulterior motives behind his appearance.

In its statement, the EFCC reiterated its determination to pursue the case, ensuring that Bello will have his day in court. The agency emphasized that it would not be deterred by the former governor’s alleged media stunts or political manoeuvring.

“The fight against corruption will continue without fear or favour, and no amount of blackmail or public sympathy will deter the EFCC from ensuring that justice is served,” the commission declared.

The EFCC also pointed out that the ongoing investigation into Bello is part of a broader crackdown on corruption. In 2024 alone, the commission has arraigned several high-profile figures, including former governors and ministers.

It could be recalled that a statement from Ohiare Michael, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, claimed that the former Kogi State governor had visited the EFCC headquarters to honour an invitation from the agency.

However, while Bello’s media team maintained that he was responding to the EFCC’s request, the anti-graft commission refuted this, asserting that the former governor remains a wanted individual.

Michael also noted that Bello decided to visit the EFCC after consultations with his legal team and political associates.

As the public awaits the next phase of this high-stakes legal battle, the EFCC has made it clear that Yahaya Bello’s surrender will not be accepted through theatrics but through proper legal channels.

Curled from Businessday

Nigeria: EFCC Files Fresh Charges Against Yahaya Bello Over N110bn Fraud, Property Scam

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Nigeria: EFCC Files Fresh Charges Against Yahaya Bello Over N110bn Fraud, Property Scam

The Federal Republic of Nigeria has filed 16-count charges against former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, Umar Shuaibu Oicha, and Abdulsalam Hudu at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

The charges, filed on September 24, 2024, in Case No: CR/7781, include conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, and possession of unlawfully obtained property. The case is pending before the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

Key allegations include conspiracy to commit criminal breach of trust involving N110.4 billion in 2016 and misuse of state funds to acquire properties, including No. 35 Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja (N950 million), No. 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja (N100 million), and No. 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja (N920 million).

Other properties allegedly acquired with misused funds include Block D Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N170 million), Hotel Apartment Community: Burj Khalifa, Dubai (Five Million, Six Hundred and Ninety-Eight Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Eight Dirhams), Block 18, Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N60 million), and No. 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja (N310.4 million).

Additionally, the defendants are accused of transferring $570,330 and $556,265 to TD Bank, USA, and possessing unlawfully obtained property, including N677.8 million from BESPOQUE BUSINESS SOLUTION LIMITED.

Prosecutors include Dr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), Rotimi Oyedepo Iseoluwa (SAN), Hannatu Umar Kofarnaisa, Zeenat Atiku Bala, Abubakar Salihu Wara, Chinenye C. Okezie, Abbas O. Muhammed, Bilkisu Buhari Bala, and Suleiman I. Suleiman.

The charge sheet reads, “That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2023, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N950,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 35 Danube Street, Maitama District, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2021, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N100,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 1160 Cadastral Zone C03, Gwarimpa II District, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2020, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N920,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 2 Justice Chukwudifu Oputa Street, Asokoro, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2022, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N170,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as Block D Manzini Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2018, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N100,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 1773 Guzape District, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2020, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N100,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: A02/176 Block 488B, Lome Street, Wuse 1, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime between 2020, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N66,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 739 Aminu Kano Crescent, wuse 2 at No. 13 Citiscape-Sharriff Plaza, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2020, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N550,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 2934A Cadastral Zone A06 also known as No.1 Ikogosi Spring Close, Maitama District, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2021, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N650,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as No: 1058, Measuring about 1450.77sqm in Cadastral Zone A08, Wuse 2 also Known as NO.2 Durban Street Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime 2022, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of Five Million, Six Hundred and Ninety Eight Thousand, Eight Hundred and Eighty Eight Dirhams for the acquisition of a property located at Hotel Apartment Community: Burj Khalifa, lying, being and situate at Plot 160, Municipality NO 345-7562, Sky View Building No.401, Floor4, Dubai U.A.E.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2016, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N60,000,000 for the acquisition of a property known as Block 18 (337) flat B Gwelo Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2017, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly used the total sum of N310,443,450 to tastefully renovate a property known as No: 9 Benghazi Street, Wuse Zone 4, Abuja.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2021, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly sent the total sum of $570,330.00 to account No. 4266644272 Domiciled with TD Bank, United State of America.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO, UMAR SHUAIBU ORICHA and ABDULSALAMI HUDU sometime in 2021, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, whilst having dominion over the state’s treasury, dishonestly sent the total sum of $556,265.00 to account No. 4266644272 Domiciled with TD Bank, United State of America.

“That YAHAYA ADOZA BELLO sometime between 2017 and 2018, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, had under your control the total sum of N677,848,000 unlawfully obtained from BESPOQUE BUSINESS SOLUTION LIMITED.”

Curled from Vanguard News under the title Yahaya Bello in deep trouble as EFCC files fresh 16 charges over N110bn fraud, property scam

Critical Minerals Sector Key To Driving Global Economic Growth – Ramaphosa

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Critical Minerals Sector Key To Driving Global Economic Growth – Ramaphosa

By Jacobs Botha, JOHANNESBURG

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the importance of the critical minerals sector in driving global economic growth and sustainability.

By leveraging key sectors such as mining, energy, and manufacturing, the President said South Africa is set to improve its business environment and attract much-needed investment.

He was addressing the African Minerals Forum hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) and Prosper Africa on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79), in New York, USA, on Monday.

He highlighted that four months ago, South Africa held national general elections, which ushered in a Government of National Unity, where 10 political parties have come together to coalesce around a common agenda for economic growth and sustainable development.

President Ramaphosa underlined South Africa’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change through the country’s Just Energy Transition Plan. This plan aims to guide the shift from coal to renewable energy, while also ensuring equitable economic opportunities for affected communities.

“South Africa’s and Africa’s critical minerals sector has a crucial role to play in this regard, and we recognise the importance of collaboration with other countries to develop the potential of our critical minerals sector.

“The US in particular has established expertise in advanced mining technologies, automation and sustainability practices.

“We want to strengthen our ties with US companies and institutions to foster technological advancements, enhance supply chain efficiencies and attract investment into our mining sector,” the President said.

The President also emphasised that South Africa strongly endorses the United Nations Secretary-General’s position paper on Critical Energy Transition Minerals, where he highlights the importance of beneficiation, benefit sharing, local value addition and economic diversification.

“It would not be an understatement to say that the minerals that lie beneath the soil of Africa are powering the green energy revolution. Thirty percent of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves are found in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“South Africa has substantial reserves of platinum group metals, manganese, vanadium as well as chromium.

“These resources are fundamental to the development of cutting-edge technologies that drive progress in various sectors. What will be critical is to ensure that this progress does not leave Africa behind,” he said.

The President stressed the need to avoid perpetuating colonial-era exploitation, where African countries primarily export raw minerals. He said that by focusing on beneficiation and domestic processing, African nations could see significant economic growth.

President Ramaphosa highlighted that beneficiation and local processing of critical minerals could increase the continent’s GDP by 12% or more by 2050.

He cited estimates suggesting that African countries could generate USD 24 billion annually in GDP and create 2.3 million jobs by investing in mining beneficiation and domestic processing.

President Ramaphosa highlighted the strides made by SASOL, South Africa’s flagship petrochemical company, in leading green hydrogen technologies research and development.

“As the global automotive industry moves towards Electric Vehicles and New Energy Vehicles, we are leveraging our rich experience with automotive production to get some of the world’s leading automotive manufactures with a footprint in South Africa to produce more their green vehicles in our country,” he said.

Despite improvements in the beneficiation of South Africa’s mineral exports, President Ramaphosa admitted that more needs to be done.

He underscored the country’s commitment to creating a supportive policy framework for the critical minerals sector, focused on streamlining regulations, fostering innovation in mining technologies, building workforce skills, improving transport and logistics infrastructure, and incentivising investment.

South Africa’s five-point policy approach aims to create a supportive environment for the critical minerals sector. This includes simplifying regulations, supporting research and development in mining technologies, investing in workforce skills, improving logistics infrastructure, and incentivising domestic and international investment.

“South Africa also has a beneficiation strategy that seeks to translate the benefits of our country’s mineral endowments into a national competitive advantage.

“As the UN Secretary-General’s paper has noted, Critical Energy Transition Minerals can transform economies, create green jobs and foster sustainable local, regional and global development,” he said.

President Ramaphosa further stressed that for the potential of critical minerals to be fully realised, both mineral-producing nations and their end-user countries must embrace inclusivity.

He emphasised the importance of creating decent work opportunities, eradicating exploitative practices such as child and forced labour, and ensuring human rights protections.

Local beneficiation and industrialisation were highlighted as priorities, alongside environmental safeguards to ensure sustainable extraction practices.

The President urged for a long-term focus on inter-generational equity, recognising that critical minerals are vital for solving global challenges like climate change, energy, and food insecurity.

He called on US companies to collaborate in fostering sustainable development.

“By leveraging our respective strengths, pursuing strategic collaborations, and implementing supportive policies, we stand ready to meet the demands of the global market and drive sustainable development.

“I call on US companies and investors to join us on our journey,” he said.

 SAnews.gov.za

South Africa: Cabinet Welcomes Signing Of BELA Bill Into Law

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South Africa: Cabinet Welcomes Signing Of BELA Bill Into Law

By Jacobs Botha, JOHANNESBURG

Cabinet has welcomed the signing of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill into law, by President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking a significant step towards transforming and enhancing the nation’s basic education system.

President Ramaphosa publicly signed the Bill on 13 September 2024, during a signing ceremony held at the Union Buildings, in Tshwane.

The BELA Act amends sections of the South African Schools Act of 1996 (SASA) and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (EEA) to account for developments in the education landscape since the enactment of the original legislation.

The amendments are a response to court judgments that protect and give effect to the Bill of Rights.

Since the advent of democracy, government has made notable progress in expanding access to education for the children of the country, however, barriers to access still remain.

The Act seeks to address these challenges and is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable.

As part of advancing diversity and inclusion, the new legislation addresses the issue of language policy. Schools have to consider the broader linguistic needs of the communities in which they are situated.

Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Friday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said this landmark legislation obliges school governing bodies to take into account the linguistic needs of the wider community to promote inclusivity in education.

“This will go a long way in making education affordable more especially in the suburban areas, where majority of schools are Afrikaans teaching, whereas the broader community around the school are English speaking,” Minister Ntshavheni said.

The legislation seeks to, among other things, make Grade R the new compulsory school starting age and also promotes greater accountability with respect to the role of parents and caregivers in ensuring children attend school consistently. Home schooling will now be subject to more effective regulation and oversight.

“In a move to strengthen Early Childhood Education, the BELA Act makes Grade R the new compulsory starting age for school. It also holds parents accountable by criminalising the failure to ensure their children attend school. There is no reason for a child not to attend school in South Africa at a Basic Education level because education is free,” Minister Ntshavheni said.

The law requires schools to apply the same standards for the admission of learners. The Act contains provisions for improving school admissions policies, particularly with respect to vulnerable learners, like children of undocumented migrants.

To promote inclusivity, the new law guides schools on the development of codes of conduct that take into account respect for religious and cultural beliefs. This is important for fostering a more tolerant learning environment and a more tolerant society.

The Act further seeks to ensure uniformity and fairness in educational standards across all schools.

To improve safety in the learning environment, the legislation reinforces the ban on corporal punishment. It introduces stronger penalties for those who administer corporal punishment.

The legislation also introduces financial and public accountability frameworks for School Governing Bodies. It guides the oversight of their activities and work.

Cabinet further welcomed the decision by the President to allow a three-month period of engagement on two clauses concerning schools’ admissions and language policies, as part of ensuring a national consensus and national cohesion.

Following different views expressed about the legislation, President Ramaphosa decided to delay the implementation date for clauses 4 and 5  by three months.

The President explained to South Africans that the parties to the Government of National Unity (GNU) expressed their wish to further engage each other on sections of the Bill (at the time) that deal with issues of admission and language.

He said this will give the parties time to deliberate on these issues and make proposals on how the different views may be accommodated. However, should the parties not be able to agree on an approach, then government will proceed with the implementation of these parts of the Act.

In an interview with SAnews this week, Education expert Mary Metcalf said she anticipates thoughtful and deliberate discussions regarding the BELA Act to unfold across the provinces over the next three months.

“My expectation is that there will be very careful interaction with provinces in terms of Grade R and realistic dates of implementation that match careful planning… and that would be clause 4 of BELA.

“In terms of clause 5 of BELA, what is important primarily there – is for the discussions to recognise firstly that BELA doesn’t change any existing constitutional or legal provisions in law,” she said.

She explained that the BELA Act addresses cases, including Constitutional Court rulings, where procedural fairness by an education department was found lacking, particularly when provincial education departments could have handled discussions with school governing bodies more carefully.

Metcalfe allayed fears that the delay in implementation of clauses 4 and 5 of the Act may leave education departments without policy direction.

She explained that during the next three months, the existing law, based on the South African Schools Act and the previous Basic Education Laws Amendment Act, will remain in effect, ensuring that education departments and the public continue to be guided without any legal uncertainty.

The two specific clauses in the Act have faced opposition, primarily due to concerns that they strip school governing bodies (SGBs) of their authority over admissions and language policy decisions.

In particular, Clause 5 has drawn criticism from those who believe it will disadvantage schools that operate in languages other than English, potentially undermining mother tongue education.

However, the clauses stipulate that SGBs will retain control over these policies, as long as they are submitted for approval to the provincial Head of Department, in line with constitutional requirements.

Metcalfe stressed that there is significant misunderstanding among the public regarding what the BELA Act aims to achieve with mother tongue education. She clarified that the right to be taught in one’s mother tongue is firmly protected by the Constitution.

“The Constitution says everybody has a right to learn in their language of choice and it is the responsibility of the school governing bodies and the [provincial] Education Departments to ensure that this is practicable, practical, and that it takes into account the circumstances,” she said.

On the clause that now compels parents to send children to Grade R for compulsory schooling, Metcalfe again laid aside fears that government is attempting to “criminalise parents”.

She explained that in South Africa, approximately 96% to 97% of learners are already enrolled in Grade R, meaning most children aged five turning six are already participating in this level of education.

However, since Grade R is not yet compulsory, the State is not currently required to fund teachers’ salaries or provide the necessary infrastructure, although public facilities are often utilised for this purpose.

Once Grade R becomes compulsory, she explained that the State will be obligated to pay the teachers and ensure that all necessary resources and infrastructure are in place.

“Bringing attendance and compulsory attendance one year earlier means that we are able to reach children. [This is] particularly important, given the levels of inequality in our country, that young children are able to access formal learning… where they are exposed to text; where they’re exposed to group learning. It’s a good thing that we do this earlier,” she said

Bello Gate: EFCC, Bello & Rule Of Law, By Ahmad Nas

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Bello Gate: EFCC, Bello & Rule Of Law, By Ahmad Nas

Corruption is certainly not a new phenomenon in Nigeria. Rather, it has long been an intrinsic element of Nigerian society affecting virtually all spheres of the West African country.

Anecdotal evidence indicates that corruption is culturally acceptable because members of the family, tribe or ethnic group benefit from an individual’s ill-gotten gains.

To highlight the importance of anti-corruption for socio-economic growth — which is being raised globally — the anti-graft agency; EFCC, has arrested, detained and even prosecuted some public office holders including formers governors, ministers managing directors and many other public officials.

Unfulfilled promises and disappointed expectations of the past are mainly responsible for the seeming apathy and disillusionment about elected leaders. Democratic leadership is about honest service to the people without seeking material rewards in return. The race is not about personal benefit but passion to use wealth of experience in the service of the people.

In the wake of Bello Gate corruption allegation ,there have been series of distorted information on the facts of the matter being investigated by the EFCC.Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello reportedly evaded arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Wednesday, with the assistance of his successor, Governor Usman Ododo.The EFCC had laid siege to the Kogi State Government Lodge in Abuja in an attempt to apprehend Bello, who is wanted over an alleged N80.2bn fraud case.

Despite the operation, Ododo allegedly helped Bello avoid arrest, leveraging the immunity he enjoys as a sitting governor.The incident follows a similar attempt in April, where Ododo reportedly facilitated Bello’s escape from EFCC operatives during another raid in Abuja.On Wednesday, after a visit by Bello and Ododo to the EFCC headquarters, the commission denied having Bello in custody.

EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale stated that Bello was not detained, despite claims by Bello’s media team that he had visited the agency.On Wednesday, after a visit by Bello and Ododo to the EFCC headquarters, the commission denied having Bello in custody.

EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale stated that Bello was not detained, despite claims by Bello’s media team that he had visited the agency.EFCC officials indicated that Ododo’s actions prevented them from arresting Bello, stating that his governorship immunity hindered the operatives from taking further action.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede has vowed that no one involved in economic or financial crimes would be spared by the commission.

Olukoyede disclosed this recently at an anti-corruption concert organized to create greater awareness and public involvement in the fight against internet crimes.

Olukoyede pointed to the strides being made since he assumed office a couple of months ago and reaffirmed his commitment to an all-embracing, fully integrated war against corrupt practices. ‘We will not spare anyone. We will not spare the mega thieves. As we are doing the mega, we will also do those at the lower end”.

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the government commission tasked with countering corruption and fraud which Olukayode  literally transformed into one of the most effective and modern . Yet, his major tribute to anti-corruption crusade was his selflessness, resilience and exemplary conduct in his spirited fight against the cankerworm.He courageously brought to book hundreds of fraudsters, scores of high profile looters and economic saboteurs in spite of temptation, booby traps and threats to life since his appointment in 2023.

Since the appointment of Olanipekun Olukoyede as chairman of the commission in October 2023, there is no doubt that the fight against corruption has taken a new outlook.  The EFCC under Olukoyede has recorded unprecedented success in the recovery of looted funds and prosecution of suspected fraudsters, both the from top to bottom  alike. Never in the history of the commission has such a huge amount of money in national and international currencies recovered from looters.

EFCC is reported to have secured 3,175 convictions and recovered N156,276,691,242.30 between May 29, 2023 and now . Foreign cash seizures are also as follows $43,835,214.24, £25,365.00, €186,947.10, ₹51,360.00, C$3,750.00, A$740.00, ¥74,754.00, R35,000.00, 42,390.00 UAE Dirhams, 247.00 Riyals and 21,580,867,631 Crypto Currency.

Most stories have at least two sides. While there is no obligation to present every side in every piece, stories should be balanced and add context. Objectivity is not always possible, and may not always be desirable but impartial and objective reporting builds trust and confidence.

The case of Former Governor Yahya Bello is not the first former governor to appear before the commission since 2007 dozens of former governors have appeared before the commission to clear their names off corruption. What is special about Yahya Bello? The former Governor Bello should stop this drama and should present himself to EFCC with immediate alacrity in the interest of transparency, accountability and rule of law. As the saying goes: “A clean conscience fears no accusation”.

Nas is a Public Commentator based in Abuja

Burden Of Proof: Publish Findings On Sexual Harassment, Discharged Female Soldier Tells Nigerian Army

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Burden Of Proof: Publish Findings On Sexual Harassment, Discharged Female Soldier Tells Nigerian Army

A former female soldier, Private Ruth Ogunleye, who was discharged from service after accusing a senior officer, Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem, of sexual harassment, has appealed to the Nigerian Army to publish the outcome of its investigation into the matter.

In January 2024, via her TikTok page, @Ogunleyeruthsavage1, Ogunleye alleged that Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem, Colonel G.S. Ogor, and Brigadier General I.B. Solebo had made her life unbearable. She specifically accused Abdulkareem of making repeated attempts to assault her, administering injections against her will, forcibly removing her from her residence, and confining her to a psychiatric hospital for several months after she rejected his sexual advances.

However, addressing journalists on Tuesday, the Director of Army Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, said that after an exhaustive review of the facts, testimonies, and evidence presented, it was determined that Abdulkareem did not commit the offences alleged by Ogunleye.

Nwachukwu stated that medical reports following an evaluation at the National Hospital in Abuja indicated that Ogunleye was suffering from a condition that rendered her medically vulnerable.

Reacting to her discharge from service on her TikTok account on Tuesday, Ogunleye expressed gratitude to the Army but pleaded for the outcome of the investigation to be made public.

She said, “I want to say a big thank you to the Nigerian Army and its spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu. It is no longer news that I was discharged from the service on June 15, 2024. I humbly request that the Nigerian Army publish the outcome of the investigation that led to my discharge.

“On January 9, 2024, I came on social media to complain about how I was harassed by Colonel I.B. Abdulkareem, Colonel G.S. Ogor, and Brigadier General I.B. Solebo. I beg the Nigerian Army to post the outcome of the investigation on its social media platforms so that the whole world will know what truly transpired and what led to my discharge. I will be very grateful if my request is considered.”

In a separate post, Ogunleye also called on the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy, not to remain silent on the matter.

She said that the minister had prevailed on her to write the discharge letter, which she submitted on her behalf to the Nigerian Army.

Ogunleye expressed shock that her discharge was tied to a mental illness.

She said, “I’m calling out the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy. You’re not just a mother, you’re a woman everybody respects so much. Please come out and say things as they are. Ma, you requested me to leave the job, and I submitted my handwritten voluntary resignation letter to you, which you gave to the Army, and requested that they release me to your office. The psychiatric doctors were there when you intervened.

“Come out and tell the truth, ma. Thereafter, the Chief of Army Staff called me on July 1, where he told me he converted my voluntary discharge to a medical discharge because you wanted me to benefit from pension and other entitlements. How was I boarded out, and where is this mental illness coming from?”

This story was curled from The Newsguide under the headline Sexual harassment: Ex female soldier challenges Army to Publish investigation outcome

Banditry: Nigeria’s Defence Minister Challenges Zamfara Gov, Others To Prove Allegations Of Sponsorship

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Banditry: Nigeria’s Defence Minister Challenges Zamfara Gov, Others To Prove Allegations Of Sponsorship

By Our Correspondent

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad, has denied allegations of sponsoring banditry and called on his accusers to provide evidence. In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, Muhammad defended his decision to engage in dialogue with bandits, a practice he claims was supported by several governors, leading to the recovery of abducted persons and ammunition in Zamfara State.

“They should bring any proof of that,” Muhammad said. “I wasn’t the only one who engaged in dialogue. The governors of Niger and Sokoto states did the same. But it seems I’m being singled out because it’s Zamfara.”

He went on to describe Zamfara as a “complex state with terrible individuals harboring devilish ideas.”

Muhammad further suggested that those accusing him of sponsoring banditry may be involved in the very activities they are accusing him of. He recalled, “I was the only governor who swore on the Holy Quran, declaring that I have no hand in banditry. If I had any involvement, I asked God to deny me even a second of grace.”

He challenged other politicians, including General Ali Gusau and current Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, to take the same oath. “None of them could take the oath, and if they don’t, it means they are part of it,” he said.

The defence Minister emphasized that his efforts, like those of other governors, were in good faith. “The dialogue brought significant success, including the recovery of weapons and the release of thousands of abducted individuals, including foreign nationals.”

However, Muhammad lamented that his fearlessness in tackling criminal elements in Zamfara had made him unpopular among some political figures. “The people who oppose me do so because I go after them,” he asserted, confirming that those individuals were indeed politicians.

Citing the success of the dialogue initiative, the Defence Minister noted that it was a global practice for governments to enter agreements with armed groups to save lives, drawing a parallel to former President Buhari’s negotiations with bandits to secure the release of the Chibok girls. “Governments around the world enter into agreements to save lives,” he added.

Muhammad condemned attempts to blackmail him for these efforts, saying, “People spread misconceptions out of hate, but I have no regrets because we achieved a lot of success without paying a single kobo in ransom.”

Responding to allegations of siphoning state funds, Muhammad dismissed claims made by Governor Dauda Lawal, who accused him of stealing over ₦70 billion from Zamfara’s coffers.

“In my four years, I never received such amounts. The records are with the Ministry of Finance. I pity Dauda—he should focus on providing good governance and addressing insecurity in Zamfara. Governance is a continuous process, and tomorrow, someone else will be in his seat,” Muhammad said.

He added, “How can a governor deceive the public by making such baseless claims? First, he said it was ₦70 billion, then he mentioned ₦240 billion. It’s not surprising if you know who Dauda is. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about.”

Governor Lawal had accused the former administration of stealing billions, but despite providing evidence to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he expressed frustration that little has been done to recover the funds.

ChannelsTV

 

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