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South Africa is playing a leading role in HIV vaccine research.

As the world observes World AIDS Day on 1 December, South Africa will reflect on the great strides made in reducing the spread and impact of the epidemic.

In line with this, South Africa has started ground-breaking HIV vaccine trials to fight the disease.

Speaking in Parliament recently, Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said the HIV vaccine trials are a major boost to the fight against AIDS.

“This vaccine trial is regarded by many as the most scientific study in the world on HIV.

The increase in domestic workers’ annual wages that came into effect on 1 December 2016 demonstrates government’s commitment to create decent work.

The latest relief ahead of the festive season will be applicable until 30 November 2017.

According to the Department of Labour, the minimum wage adjustment is in line with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, which is regulated through the Sectoral Determination.

The Festive Season is a time when many feel tempted to spend all their money.

As the festive season approaches consumers need to be smarter with how they spend their money and think about the deals that they get into.

The Credit Ombud, Nicky Lala Mohan says that many households rely on credit to cover their day-to-day expenses, which suggests that they are not living according to their means.

There are currently over one million people receiving disability grants. People with disabilities not receiving a grant can apply at their local South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office.

To qualify you must: 

Government is boosting efforts to ensure that people with disabilities have access to services that ensure they live normal lives.

This is in line with the commitments made in the National Development Plan to increase access to services, particularly in quality education and employment for people with disabilities.

Domestic violence is any form of abuse, which includes physical, sexual, emotional, psychological or economic harassment.

It includes damage to property, stalking and entry into your property without permission or any other abusive or controlling behaviour.

Those who find themselves in abusive relationships can get a protection order from the court.

What is a protection order?

With the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign still underway, the spotlight is on the safety of women and children.

In line with this, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has shared safety tips for women who are in abusive relationships.  

Your safety plan:

1. Safety when preparing to escape

International Relations

South Africa and Zimbabwe have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation across numerous fields, particularly trade, investment and finance.

President Jacob Zuma recently visited Zimbabwe for the inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC) Summit in Harare. The BNC was co-chaired by President Zuma and Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe.

About the Minister

Mr Zwane obtained his secondary teacher's diploma from the South African Teachers' College in Pretoria. He also holds a certificate in Executive Leadership Municipal Development Programme from the University of Pretoria.

Sport

Fresh from the empathic series win in Australia, the Proteas will want to use home-ground advantage when they welcome Sri Lanka for an incoming series.

The two teams will play 11 matches between December 2016 and February 2017. There will be three test matches followed by three T20 matches and five one day internationals (ODI).