Publisher

President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned South Africans not to cause harm to others by spreading false stories about the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) vaccines.

“False stories are being spread on WhatsApp groups, on social media and by word of mouth about the COVID-19 vaccine, claiming that the vaccine is not safe, that it can make you sick or that it doesn’t work,” he noted.

The President called on South Africans to think about the consequences of spreading false information.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which is commemorated on 30 July, raises awareness of human trafficking, its victims and the protection of their rights.

Trafficking in persons is a serious crime and a grave violation of human rights. It exploits women, children and men for various reasons, including forced labour and sex.

According to the United Nations’ (UN) Office on Drugs and Crime, almost every country in the world is affected by trafficking, with thousands of people falling victim to it every year.

For some years now, South Africa’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have mostly been associated in the public eye with state capture, financial mismanagement and inefficiency.

In addition to needing regular bailouts from government, some of the country’s biggest and most important state-owned companies have been struggling to meet their mandates.

As South Africa battles a third wave of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), the country’s mass vaccination programme is expanding to include more categories of people.

South Africans between the ages of 50 and 59 are expected to start receiving vaccines from 15 July.

“The [vaccination] programme has picked up significant momentum, with key milestones being achieved as we move forward,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The first phase of the vaccination programme focused on healthcare workers, while the second phase targeted the age group of 60 and above.

The Department  of Social Development calls on parents to play an active role in their children’s lives.

The absence of one parent could have a negative impact on children, as they face an increased risk of developing behavioural challenges.

This is according to the Department of Social Development, which adds that many children in South Africa live without their parents’ support, which compromises their rights to protection and care.

Crafters across the country have the opportunity to be recognised and rewarded for their work during the upcoming fifth Innibos National Craft Awards.

The competition, which is supported by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), highlights the vibrant craft sector in the country.

The awards are organised by John-Anthony Boerma and Jan Bhuda of ArtAid Africa.

“From the start, it was our intention to create a platform for crafters to highlight their work and to show the world just how much talent there is in South Africa.

Midrand resident Zinhle T. Matthews (37) has written a children’s book, My Family of Superheroes, that focuses on how positive phrases can help children realise their inner strength and potential.

The book tells the story of Precious who, inspired by her mother, uses positive affirmation to overcome her insecurities and doubts.

My Family of Superheroes is meant to be read by a parent or caregiver to a child. The book features images of Precious, her parents, baby sibling and the family cat dressed as the heroes and heroines of their own story.

World Hepatitis Day  raises awareness of viral hepatitis so that people can get treatment.

This year’s theme for World Hepatitis Day on 28 July – ‘hepatitis can’t wait’ – aims to highlight the need to speed up hepatitis elimination efforts, especially during the Coronavirus Disease pandemic.

Hepatitis, which is inflammation of the liver, is often caused by a virus. There are five types of hepatitis – A to E – which can cause a variety of health problems.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has called on Grade 12 learners interested in pursuing qualifications related to the water sector to apply for its bursaries.

“Bursary applications for students with an interest in science and engineering disciplines are currently open.

“We urge Grade 12 learners particularly to apply, as we are in dire need of young and innovative minds to join the sector,” says the department’s spokesperson, Sputnik Ratau.

Applications opened on 1 June 2021 and will close on 31 October 2021.