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So is die Lewe: Ek is gelukkig ryk.

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So is die Lewe: Ek is gelukkig ryk.

Geniet nog ‘n aflewering van “So is die Lewe” uit die pen van Marius Britz.

Uitgestrekte wit strande is lekker, ja. Die hemelsblou see is ‘n belewenis, ja. Die seiljagte wat lui verbyvaar is mooi om te sien, ja. Die gekrys van seemeeue en die gedruis van die malgaskolonies op Dasseneiland is lekker om te hoor, ja.  Nou, wat op aarde kan dan onaangenaam wees op ‘n plekkie soos Langebaan, behalwe die Swart Suidoos wat so kan waai? 

Kom ek vertel jou: die buitelandse toeriste, soms.  Hulle loop die sypaadjies en winkelgange vol, hulle eet die duurste geregte in die restourante vir spotgoedkoop as gevolg van die wisselkoers, hulle stamp jou uit die pad om eerste by die rakke uit te kom, hulle kwetter en kweel luidrugtig in onverstaanbare tale, en hulle kyk van die hoogte af neer op ons Suid Afrikaners.  Hulle koop sakke en sakke vol houtolifante en draadboompies en skulphartjies, wat hulle dan onverstoord in die middel van die straat vir mekaar staan en wys, terwyl die karre maar moet maar wag.

Sou jy die vrymoedigheid neem om flussies op jou toeter te druk, kry jy so vuilerige, afwesige kyk.  Daai kyk wat jy in die wildtuin vir die bobbejane gee as hulle jou piekniekkos wil steel.  Regdeur die jaar is die strate vol toerbusse en word ons weskusdorpie ingeval deur die kamerabrigades.  Word ons oorgelewer aan onverstaanbare tale en gewoontes.

Lees ook: So is die Lewe: Als loop reg, altyd reg.

Een manier om daarvan te ontsnap is om, sê maar, jou pille by die staatskliniek te gaan haal.  Of om die daaglikse winskopies by Shoprite te gaan koop. Of eenvoudig te gaan brandstof ingooi by Mouton Motors. Want daar word jy werklik deel van jóu mense, mense wat die dorp en die land met jou deel, wat dieselfde erfenis as jy het, mense wat jy kan verstaan. 

“More more!” sê die man wat met sy fiets en ‘n sleepwaentjie deur die dorp ry. “Hie is lekke samoesas vemore? Spesiaal met die kerrie net soes menee daavan hou…”  By die vulstasie vra die pompjoggie: “Nou wane gaan menee daai poer-poer (motorfiets) aan my vekoep? Ek vyl al lankal my tanne vi hom!” Hy lag en vertel my oor ‘n buurman se kaskenades die naweek. “Daai klas wyn is nie vir ‘n man met ‘n dun kopvel nie.  Hy wou toe baklei soes iemand wat op medical aid is! Is true my broe!”

In die tou by die kliniek sit ek en my huishulp skouer aan skouer.  Om ons is mense wat praat oor hulle lewens. Covid en die dra van maskers. Inentings.  Kos wat so duur geword het.  Die moordsyfer in Kaapstad. Die munisipaliteit wat so onverbiddelik is oor onbetaalde rekeninge. Hoe mooi dit is as die Silwer Valke oor die dorp vlieg, en hoe trots ons almal opkyk na die lug as hulle so dreun en draai oor die Baai. Hoe bekommerd ons oor ons kinders is wat nie werk kry nie. Hulle vertel my hoe mooi Pastoor gepraat het by die kerk Sondag oor liefde en die naaste.  

Ons is almal Suid Afrikaners. Ons voel dieselfde pyn oor misdaad, korrupsie, nepotisme, staatskaping en opruiende uitsprake.  Maar ons kry almal trane in ons oë as die volkslied gesing word, en ons almal is oorstelp as iemand op die dorpsgroepie op facebook benoud vra dat almal moet help soek na hulle lieflinghondjie wat uitgekom het, en dan laat weet die hondjie is ongedeerd gekry. 

Ons luister lekker saam hoe iemand vertel hoe hulle gelag het vir ‘n soveelste heruitsending van ‘n Leon Schuster-fliek, en ons lag hartlik as een vrou vertel hoe haar ma haar tande in die branders verloor het, en toe sy gaan vra by die lewensredders se kantore of iemand nie dalk haar tande daar ingegee het nie, toe trek hulle ‘n groot laai vol tande oop, en sy moet maar soek.  Ons lag, ons huil, ons filosofeer, ons terg, ons betoon meegevoel, ons verstaan.  Want ons deel een erfenis, een land. Ons het ‘n groot gemeenskaplike snypunt.

Ek loop daarna deur my huis, peinsend oor hierdie erfenis-ding.  Ek sien soveel dinge wat wys wie ek is, waar ek vandaan kom.  My erfenis.  Ons erfenis.  Myne en almal daar by die kliniek en by Shoprite. Ouma se gehekelde doilies (in my man-cave weggesteek.) Die ballerinapop met haar uitstaanrok wat bo-oor die ekstra toiletrol op die toiletbak gesit word.  (In die garage in ‘n houer.) Die tapeserie van die Voortrekkermonument wat ouma gemaak het (in die karoohuis opgehang.) 

Die Charles Jacobie en Min Shaw-plate in my rak.  Johannes Kerkorrel en Piet Botha.  Anton Goosen en Laurika Rauch. Bacchus Nel en Gian Groen. Gè Korsten en Gert Potgieter. Koos du Plessis.  Margaret Singana en Taliep Petersen, Johnny Clegg en Sipho Hotstix Mabuza.  (Gwendolene by die kliniek het gesê Kurt Darren kan enige tyd sy skoene onder haar bed kom insteek.) 

Die Supersonic-radio langs my bed wat Saterdagaande U eie Keuse op RSG speel.  Buurman wat malvas uithaal, en op die heining neersit as ek dit dalk wil plant.  Breyten Breytenbach en Andrè P Brink. Ingrid Jonker en Herman Charles Bosman. Dana Snyman en Deon Meyer. Van Wyk Louw, Nadine Gordimer en JM Coetzee.   

Eensklaps besef ek hoe ryk ek geërf het.  Nie aan geld nie, maar aan hartsdinge, omring deur hartsmense wat dieselfde as ek dink, oor dieselfde dinge as ek lag.  Mense wat soms, op die mees onverwagte oomblik, met ‘n skreeusnaakse opmerking kan kom.  Wat vir die lastige buitelandse toeriste agterna skreeu: “Moenie soe wiesie man…!”

Secunda Reformed Church morning service 8 August 2021

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Secunda Reformed Church morning service 8 August 2021

Welcome to the Secunda Reformed Church morning service, 8 August 2021

“Grace or Reward” by Anton Knoetze

Secunda Reformed Church morning service 8 August 2021

Luke 17:11-19 – King James Version

11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

Also read: Secunda Reformed Church morning service 1 August 2021

14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

Kruik se Oggenddiens 8 Augustus 2021

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Kruik se Oggenddiens 8 Augustus 2021

Welkom by Kruik se oggenddiens van 8 Augustus 2021

Vanoggend se tema: Die dinge wat ek sê.

Kruik se oggenddiens van 8 Augustus 2021

Die dinge wat ek sê het ‘n groot invloed op wat in ons eie lewens sowel as ander mense se lewens gebeur. Dit dra groot krag, so hoe werk ons met hierdie krag?

Wat gee die bybel ons as gereedskap tot hierdie lewe.

Lees ook: Kruik se Oggenddiens 1 Augustus 2021

Preeknotas + besprekingsvrae: http://bible.com/events/48743664

Maak ‘n finansiële bydrae op 2 maniere:

1.Gee Aanlyn (Kruik Gemeente, ABSA, Tjek, Rek nr: 1510140016)

2.Gee deur Zapper – vind ons QR code in die diens aankondigings.

Kontak ons gerus op Kruik Gemeente se Facebook Messenger en Whatsapp lyn (072 133 6130) of besoek ons webtuiste by: https://www.kruik.co.za

Geniet die diens saam ons!

Kruik CCLI lisensie nr: #573361​

Raise a Halleluja J.Stevens, J. Helser, M. Helser, & M. Skaggs ©️ Bethel Music Publishing CCLI#573661

Goodness Of God (Goedheid van God) E. Cash & J. Johnson Afrikaans: Mosaïek – Vertaal deur J. Heystek ©️ 2018 Alletrop Music CCLI#573661

Visser Flats in Trichardt finally Get a Roof

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Visser Flats in Trichardt finally Get a Roof

Storm ravage Visser flats in Trichardt finaly gets the roof replaced

A hefty storm early in October 2020 destroyed the roof of two of the low-cost housing units known as the Visser Flats on the edge of Trichardt.  Elderly residents of these flats hastily attempted to save their belongings from water streaming in through the roof with plastic that was supplied by a community organization.

The municipality allegedly showed up a day or so later to assess the damage but never made an insurance claim with their insurer for repairs to the damaged buildings. In December 2020, residents of the flats, still with the plastic covering part of their living room, emotionally shared with the Democratic Alliance how Christmas is only going to be a sad story for them since their houses have not yet been repaired. A hole in the roof was obvious with water damage to the ceiling being visible.

Thanks to consistent pressure from the DA, by January 2021 the Govan Mbeki Municipality finally submitted a claim for the repairs of the roofs of the two flats that were affected by the storm. However, these claims took an eternity to be finalised and required constant follow-ups with the finance department and the council to finally focus the attention of the municipality on the pleas of the residents.

Also read: Sasol enhances existing preventative workplace COVID-19 controls

Finally, in August 2021, the municipality cleared up the claim and the zinc roofs of the flats were repaired.

visser

“The DA is of the opinion that it is inhumane that the ANC-led municipality must forever be pushed and shoved before delivering services such as seeing to the safety of elderly residents in buildings that are owned by the municipality,” said Ciska Jordaan, ward 25 Councillor Govan Mbeki and Deputy chairperson of the DA Mpumalanga, “Despite the new roof, the Visser flats are in general in a sad state. Windows and carpets must be replaced in some of the flats, walls must be painted and electrical wiring is a problem.”

“Not only did it take nearly a year for the Govan Mbeki municipality to repair the roof while residents live with holes in their roof throughout the winter, but also do residents of the Davieshof housing struggle often to have geysers replaced and for general maintenance to take place.” she continued, “It is only a change in who has their hands on the Govan Mbeki Municipality’s pathetic money matters, that would bring a change in the services that are delivered.”

“I urge residents of Govan Mbeki to use their power in the coming Local Government Election to vote for a party that cares – the DA.” said Ciska Jordaan

Read more on the Democratic Alliance in Mpumalanga HERE

Sasol enhances existing preventative workplace COVID-19 controls

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Sasol enhances existing preventative workplace COVID-19 controls

Sasol enhances existing preventative workplace COVID-19 controls for its upcoming annual Secunda Operations shutdown

The news that Sasol had a huge Vaccination rollout where they will endeavour to vaccinate around 20000 people before the shutdown at the end of August had mixed reactions. Some welcomed the opportunity to vaccinate while others are unhappy about the apparent bullying (as they put it) by Sasol in forcing people to vaccinate. Solidarity had discussions with Sasol and another group will engage with Sasol during next week.

The Bulletin asked Sasol for their response on these reactions from the workers.

Sasol donates to farm schools diving

This was their response:

From 30 August till the end of September 2021, the Sasol Secunda Operations plant will undergo a major facility shutdown for statutory maintenance to critical infrastructure and equipment.

The shutdown will entail the execution of more than 90 000 activities over 23 days. During this period, the size of the workforce on site will increase substantially to nearly 20 000 people, comprising Sasol employees and those of service providers. Further, a significant number of the workforce will be service provider employees who will be converging in Secunda from different geographical areas to augment the need for critical skills and they will have to adjust to Sasol’s shutdown-specific workplace safety protocols.

Read more on Sasol HERE

“Sasol is acutely aware of the obligations imposed on it by the Occupational Health and Safety Act to provide and maintain, as far as is reasonably practicable, a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health of its employees and others present at its premises.” said Matebello Motloung, Senior Specialist: Media Relations at Sasol, “Sasol also fully appreciates the gravity of this considering the abovementioned vastness of the shutdown activities to be undertaken by a large workforce and amid the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. This requires adherence to various other regulatory requirements, which we remain committed to complying with as well.”

For these reasons, although Sasol believes that its current Covid-19 workplace prevention measures and protocols are adequate and effective to protect employees under normal working conditions, we view the upcoming shutdown as a particularly high-risk event due to the possible spread of COVID-19 as South Africa is in the middle of the pandemic. This is also based on our updated workplace risk assessment, which considers the specific circumstances of the shutdown. It is therefore critical that we fulfil our workplace safety obligations by managing the shutdown as a potential super-spreader event as part of our COVID-19 workplace mitigation plan.

Also read: Solidariteit announces that Sasol will carry costs for tests

Protecting all employees

Sasol supports the view that the implementation of mitigation measures, including vaccinations in times of pandemics, is primarily in the interest of public health and safety and for the greater good of society. 

Sasol further regards vaccination of the workforce involved in activities on-site during the shutdown period as a necessary and effective measure to mitigate the increased workplace exposure to the COVID-19 and the risk of it spreading. We do this while recognising that it remains an individual’s choice to be vaccinated, which choice is to be exercised with due consideration to individual rights and without any fear of discrimination or retaliation. This is underpinned by Sasol’s Human Rights Policy.

It is for this reason that employees that will be participating in activities on-site during the shutdown period are expected to submit either proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test (an antigen test will be accepted) result not older than 7 days prior to commencement of the shutdown activities, and to be repeated during the shutdown period every 7 days. This, in our view, is also in the interest of the health of the public, given the prevailing pandemic. Sasol is working with the National and provincial authorities on protocols for vaccination and other pandemic related response interventions.

Sasol is currently assessing the costs associated with the testing and exploring viable means of providing enabling support.  Sasol continues its engagements with the workforce and other interested and affected parties for the above purposes, including the rendering support to enable the abovementioned objectives.

Solidariteit announces that Sasol will carry costs for tests

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Solidariteit announces that Sasol will carry costs for tests

Sasol staff will not be forced to pay for COVID-19 testing, Solidariteit announced today

Thursday | 05 August | 2021

Solidarity today announced that staff at Sasol’s Secunda plant would no longer be forced to pay for Covid-19 tests themselves. This comes after Solidarity and Sasol earlier today had a meeting about the matter.

“We are pleased that after robust negotiations Sasol agreed to carry the costs of all Sasol staff members’ Covid-19 testing,” Riaan Visser, Solidarity’s deputy general secretary for mining, agriculture and the chemical industry said.

According to Solidarity, many people are still unsure about vaccination and this uncertainty must be respected.

Also read: MEC Speedy Mashilo takes action in Lebohang

“Discrimination is unacceptable as far as vaccination is concerned and it will add to the hesitation that exists about it. At the same time it will also reduce the effectiveness of any vaccination programme,” Visser stated.

Solidarity further contends that it cannot be expected of employees to bear the brunt of the state’s inefficiency with the vaccination programme.

“Although some people are still not sure about their decision regarding vaccination, there are also many who would like to be vaccinated, but simply cannot do so because of the slow progress of the government’s vaccination programme. Obviously, they should not pay the price for a government that has dragged its feet with the vaccination process,” Visser said.

Visit Solidariteit HERE

Solidarity also emphasised its support for vaccinations and explained that although it should be every person’s own decision, the organisation still recommends that those who can, should be vaccinated.

“Research, including that of Solidarity’s Research Institute, shows that vaccinations are effective and safe. Therefore, we encourage vaccination. However, this must always be done on a voluntary basis and employers cannot attempt to impose unreasonable negative requirements on their employees if they decide against it or have not yet had the opportunity to be vaccinated,” Visser concluded.

MEC Speedy Mashilo takes action in Lebohang

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MEC Speedy Mashilo takes action in Lebohang

MEC for Human Settlements, Speedy Mashilo, visited Lebohang today.

Mashilo addressed a small gathering at the taxi rank and brief the residents on the developments regarding land allocation for stands to build houses on.

Govan Mbeki Municipality faced violent protests during June that saw the municipal building gutted.

MEC Mashilo told the group that they had to look at the availability of land and Anglo Ashanti donated about 170 hectares for the project. Other sections of land would also be purchased soon.

mec
Speedy Mashilo Portfolio: MEC for Human Settlements

A service provider has already been appointed by the office of the MEC and would start with the township establishment very soon. It is expected that the first contractors will be on-site on Tuesday.

He eluded that such establishments take time. It would take approximately 18 months but MEC Mashilo said that it should be finalised in eight months.

The Bulletin spoke to Speedy Mashilo Portfolio: MEC for Human Settlements as well as Nhlakanipo Zuma, Executive Mayor of GMM

The funds for the development would be made available from the Department of Human Settlement as GMM would not be able to carry such a financial burden at this time.

They are contemplating providing all the infrastructure needed in the area.

The executive Mayor of GMM, Cllr Zuma said that the intervention by the MEC is “very desired and could not come at a better time.”

Water restrictions as Rand Water demand more
Executive Mayor, Cllr Zuma

The MEC promised to keep monitoring this project with his whole team.

The Mayor said that they expected to make more than 10000 stands available with this project.

During the MEC’s address at the taxi rank, the feelings were mixed but those that the Bulletin spoke to said that they will wait and see if anything would happen.

The community threatened with protest action in the days before the MEC came to Leandra but have since quieted down in anticipation of the start of the project.

Here is the message that did the rounds on social media:

On 2021-07-29 a meeting was held at the old taxi rank in Leslie. The meeting was called by Mafika Shabalala @ Mshengu. The meeting was about the official visit by Mpumalanga MEC for Human settlement and Cogta as well as the GMM mayor in Leslie on the previously raised concerns ( Land for human settlement, taxi conflict over route and building of additional school in Leslie).

The community were made to believe that the MEC and entourage would come back to Leslie for a feedback as promised regarding a way forward on the above issues. Mshengu alleges that the community was not given feedback and when they tried to communicate with the offices of the mayor in GMM and also that of the MEC they are told that they would be given feedback SOON, which they believe the officials are trying to avoid them. The community at Leslie have now decided to it 7days after which if addressed accordingly with feedback they will resume Protest Actions. The possible date to resume protest actions is Thursday 2021-08-05

Find all the MEC’s contact details HERE

ANIMALS 101 – HAVING AN EMERGENCY PLAN FOR YOUR PETS.

Ancois van Zyl
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ANIMALS 101 – HAVING AN EMERGENCY PLAN FOR YOUR PETS.

ANIMALS 101 – DO YOU HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE FOR YOUR PETS IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY?

This is NOT ONLY APPLICABLE IN COVID TIMES!

Your pets are important members of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected follow these tips with your pets in mind:

1. Make a plan.

2. Build an emergency kit.

3. Stay informed.

animals
Source Pexels.com
  1. MAKE A PLAN

If you have a plan in place for you and your pets, you will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry when you need to make a decision during an emergency. This includes you falling ill or dying in an accident. If local officials asks you to evacuate, that means your pet should evacuate too. If you leave your pets behind, they may end up lost, injured or worse. You are responsible for them.

  • Have an evacuation plan for your pet. Many public shelters and hotels do not allow pets inside. Find a safe place where you can take your pets, before disasters and emergencies happen.
  • Plan together with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.
  • Have your pet microchipped. Make sure to keep your address and phone number up-to-date and include contact information for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area. Remember that you have to register the microchip the first time and on more than one database.
  • Contact your local emergency management office, veterinarian, animal shelter or animal control office to get additional advice and information if you’re unsure on how to care for your pet in case of an emergency.
animals
Source humanesociety.org

2. BUILD AN EMERGENCY KIT

Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate. Review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.

Here are some items you may want to include in an emergency kit for your pet:

  • Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
  • Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
  • Medicine. Well labelled. Keep an extra supply of the medicine your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.
  • Keep all their medical records in one place with this kit.
  • First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
  • Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag. Have copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
  • Traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet. Have a plan on who grabs what in an emergency.
  • Grooming items. Pet shampoo, conditioner and other items, in case your pet needs some cleaning up. Dry shampoos are great for this.
  • Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs.
  • A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. You can also add a detailed description of your pet.
  • Important numbers. Your veterinarians number. If your family does not live in your town, have numbers for someone who can immediately go to your home and check on them or take them. You can even provide them with a letter of authorisation and or a key to your home.
  • Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

Also read: ANIMALS 101 – ADOPTING A PET (PART 2)

3. STAY INFORMED

This includes the current situation in your area or country or topics about your pets.

OTHER TIPS

  • Emergency card. You can buy or make such cards to keep in your wallet or in your car. Even stickers. If you are in a accident or unconscious then this person can be contacted. Never list your address, but that you have animals at home to be taken care of and the contact person.
  • In case of a fire at home. Have a small notice board near entrances about people and pets in this home. Not where thieves can see it from outside, but if firemen enter this could help. Read more on FIRE EMERGENCY here.
  • Provide exits for your pets like doggy doors. We prefer at least two.
  • Teach your pets to open certain doors.
  • Our pet sitter and one other person is listed with contact numbers on our vet accounts as having authority to make decisions on our behalf. Inform your vet that this person can be contacted.
  • We opened a vet account at more than one veterinary practice in town, so if one is not available, you (or pet sitter) does not need to do all the paperwork then.
  • Our pet sitter has the family’s numbers and vice versa.
  • Include your pets in your will and clearly state your wishes. Name one or two people you trust to make these decisions if necessary. Inform those that you name in your will to take care of your pets.
  • NEVER LEAVE your pets alone when you are away for holiday. Have someone check in at least once a day.
  • Save in advance for pet emergencies.

Next week we will look at how you can help reputable and local animal welfare organisations.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Wanted suspect arrested for tampering

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Wanted suspect arrested for tampering

MPUMALANGA WANTED SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR TAMPERING WITH ESSENTIAL INFRUSTRUCTURE

MPUMALANGA – A 28-year-old foreign national is expected to appear before the Mkhuhlu Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 04 August 2021 after he was arrested during a disruptive operation by members of Mpumalanga based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation together with Germiston CPI private investigators on Monday, 02 August 2021 for tampering with essential infrastructure, theft and fraud.

Read more about the HAWKS HERE

It is alleged that in June 2018, Vodacom tower batteries were stolen from the Calcutta power station and were later recovered in a vehicle at Marite trust. The vehicle owner could not be located at the time. A case docket for tempering with infrastructure and theft was opened and it was transferred to the Hawks for further probe. During the investigation, the suspect was linked to the incident and the matter was brought before the court for a decision. A warrant of arrest was issued against him.

wanted

The information was received about his whereabouts at his hiding place in Germiston, Gauteng province. The team proceeded to the identified address and the suspect was apprehended.

Also read: World Ranger Day celebrated on 31 July

During the search, a gas bottle, cash, container keys and cutting welding pipes with gauges which are allegedly used to cut the tower containers were confiscated. The investigation is continuing.

World Ranger Day celebrated on 31 July

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World Ranger Day celebrated on 31 July
DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT CELEBRATES WORLD RANGER DAY AND REPORTS BACK ON RHINO POACHING IN SOUTH AFRICA

31 JULY 2021 was World Ranger Day. Rangers are facing increasing dangers in the field as poaching syndicates are growing more ruthless

“On World Ranger Day, we want to pay tribute to our rangers for the incredible work they do each and every day to keep our National Parks and our iconic species safe. We also want to pay tribute to eleven of our staff members at SANParks who lost their lives to Covid 19 over the past year,” said Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Barbara Creecy.

Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Barbara Creecy.

“We find ourselves in a position where the efforts being made to combat wildlife crime, such as rhino poaching, are influenced to some extent by the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the battle to beat the Covid-19 pandemic,” said the Minister.

“In the battle to conserve our wildlife and halt poaching, it is our rangers who remain at the forefront, putting their lives on the line daily to conserve our environment and vulnerable species despite the additional risk of contracting Covid-19,”  added Ms Creecy.

We also want to remember Field Ranger, Checkers Mashego whose lifeless body was discovered at the Kruger Park late last year. May the souls of all our SANPARKS staff and field rangers rest in peace after serving our nation with diligence and passion.

Rangers salute to the commanders i.e. KNP Managing Executive – Gareth Coleman, KNP Head Ranger – Catherine Dreyer and Skukuza Section Ranger – Kally Ubisi

While the national lockdowns that curbed the movement of people to halt the spread of the virus in 2020 contributed to a decrease in rhino poaching, the lifting of the stringent lockdown regulations appears to have seen an increase in rhino poaching in the first six months of 2021.

From January to the end of June 2021, 249 rhinos have been poached for their horn in South Africa.  While this is higher than the number of rhino killed for their horns in the same period last year,  at 166, it is less than the 318 rhinos that were poached in the first six months of 2019.  

  • KNP Managing Executive, Gareth Coleman
  • KNP Head Ranger – Catherine Dreyer
  • ranger
    Skukuza Section Ranger – Kally Ubisi perform the wreath laying ceremony

During the six months, January to June 2021, the Kruger National Park experienced 715 poacher activities, an increase of 3.77% in comparison to the number in 2020, which was 689 for the same period. From January to the end of June 2021, 132 rhinos were poached for their horns in the Kruger National Park. One elephant was poached for its ivory in the Kruger National Park during this period.

A number of successful arrests and prosecutions have also been recorded in the past 6 months. This again underscores the success of the collaborative work being done by law enforcement agencies. These include the police, the Hawks, SANParks, the Environmental Management Inspectorate or Green Scorpions, customs officials, SANDF, provincial park authorities and the National Prosecuting Authority.

Regional Ranger, Marula North – Steven Whitfield pays homage to the KNP Rangers and Rangers throughout Africa (those who passed on and the living)

From January to June 2021, 40 alleged poachers were arrested within the Kruger National Park.  A total of 125 people have been arrested for rhino poaching and rhino horn trafficking across the country in the past six months.

Numerous confiscations of rhino horn have also taken place since January, both within the country as well as at OR Tambo International Airport.  The cohesive partnership with the South East Asian countries is also showing concrete results with the recent collaboration between the South African and the Vietnamese authorities resulting in one of the largest seizures of rhino horns and other wildlife products, thereby disrupting syndicate activities.

A total of 14 cases have been finalised since the start of the year with a verdict, representing a 93% conviction rate. A total of 14 convictions represented 20 convicted accused. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the finalisation rate in courts has slowed down as witnesses, accused and court staff in many instances are required to isolate or quarantine, and even court buildings in some instances need to be decontaminated. This has had an effect on the finalisation of cases.

KNP Staff members observe the moment of silence in honour of Rangers who have departed

“It is clear that the multi-disciplinary, integrated approach to investigating illegal wildlife trade is bearing fruit and that effective collaboration with critical role players remains key to our success,” said Minister Creecy. “I congratulate the teams on a job well done.”

Read more on the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment HERE

We remain aware that criminal elements within our society continue to take advantage of the socio-economic pressures and drive demand for illegal wildlife products.  Accordingly, the Department, working with a number of communities, NGO’s and donors, continues with various community development programmes, in collaboration with its partners, SANParks, Provinces and neighbouring countries. The only long term sustainable solution to wildlife management and conservation is to ensure communities living on the outskirts of our national parks benefit from tourism and other opportunities.

The provincial and national breakdown for January to June 2021 (in comparison to 2019 and 2020) is as follows:

PROVINCES AND NATIONAL PARKS2019 January to June2020 January to June2021 January to June  
SANParks19190132
Gauteng500
Limpopo16530
Mpumalanga11620
North West171718
Eastern Cape100
Free State8016
Northern Cape310
Kwa-Zulu Natal664733
Western Cape000
 Total318166249

Noticeably increased poacher pressure has been experienced in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Free State provinces. The Department is also monitoring the increased pressure seen on private rhino reserves and collaborating closely with the private sector which continues to play a significant role in rhino protection. During the same reporting period over the last three years, losses in private parks constituted 15% of the total reported loss in 2019, 9% in 2020 and 30% so far in 2021.

Skukuza Section Ranger, Kally Ubisi reads the Ranger’s Pledge

The following are examples of successful prosecutions indicating that transnational organised crime, as well as poaching cases within the borders of the Republic, are addressed through collaborative efforts between the NPA, DPCI, Stock Theft & Endangered Species Unit of the SAPS and the Green Scorpions: 

  • S v Solly Ndima was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment after being convicted of trespassing in the Skukuza National Park, contravention of Immigration Act, possession of prohibited firearm with serial number obliterated, possession of ammunition, illegal hunting and killing of a rhino.
  • S v AA Valoyi was sentenced to 23 years imprisonment after being convicted of trespassing in the Skukuza National Park, contravention of Immigration Act, possession of a firearm with intent to commit a crime, possession of unlicensed firearm, possession of a 6 rhino horns. 
  • S v GV Tibane and J Matshinga Sithole were sentenced 19 years’ imprisonment and were subsequently convicted of trespassing in Skukuza National Park, Contravention of the Immigration Act, illegal hunting and killing of a rhino, possession of firearm with obliterated serial number, possession of silencer firearm, possession of firearm with intent to commit crime, possession of ammunition and possession of an axe.
  • S v Carlos Ngobeni was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment after being convicted contravening the Immigration Act, trespassing, possession of unlicensed firearm, illegal hunting and killing of a rhino, Possession of firearm with intent to commit crime, Possession of dangerous weapon.
  • S v Emmanuel Mdluli was sentenced to 16 years’ imprisonment after being convicted on charges of trespassing, possession of firearm with the intention to poach a rhino, possession of firearm with serial number obliterated, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of dangerous weapon, contravening Immigration Act.
KNP Ranger Corps team at the 2021 World Ranger Day

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS) commitment to combat wildlife trafficking and in specific combating rhino horn trafficking is harvesting the fruits of years of hard work. The integrated approach working with transnational law enforcement agencies, the public and private sector and other government agencies has led to a weekend of success in combating rhino horn trafficking in South Africa and beyond.

South Africa and the Vietnamese authorities worked together for the past month in investigating one of the largest consignments of rhino horns and other wildlife products to disrupt syndicate activities. The first phase of the investigation was concluded on 17 June 2021 with the seizure of a container in Da Nang Port in Vietnam. The Vietnamese authorities seized 139 kilograms of rhino horns, as well as 3.1 tons of animal parts suspected to be lion bones. The integrated investigation continues between the two countries with further results expected.

Also read: Afriforum participate in national patrol

In addition to this success, another consignment of 32 rhino horns was seized at OR Tambo International Airport on 17 June 2021 destined for Malaysia. The HAWKS are currently investigating the matter.

Just days prior to the seizures made in Vietnam and ORTIA two rhino horn traffickers were arrested in Bedfordview, Johannesburg. One Zimbabwean male, 35 years and one South African male, age 40 were arrested in the late afternoon on 16 June 2021 during an integrated Hawks operation supported by DFFE, US Home Land Security and public-private partnership. Two kilograms of rhino horn were seized during the operation and the accused appeared in the Germiston Magistrate court on Monday 19 June 2021.

In addition to these successes, three accused that were arrested by the HAWKS in Gqeberha on 21 February 2021, charged with the theft of a rhino horn, were convicted in the Gqeberha Magistrate Court on 15 June 2021.

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