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Thursday, December 19, 2019

Review of Samsung Galaxy A30s Special Edition with Cassper Nyovest



This month I was invited by Samsung to try out their new A30s model. In particular the Special Edition with Cassper Nyovest.

Samsung A30s | Image: Samsung

This model comes with some added benefits including the Cassper Nyovest Alarm. This celebrity alarm wakes you up every morning to guide you through your day. So if you are looking for some daily inspiration in 2020 this might be the phone for you.

Other featured benefits include wallpapers and themes and of course Samsung Pay which allows you to make in-store purchases with your device.

Let’s take a look at the specs:

The Specs | Ts and Cs Apply | Some models may differ


The phone has a triple camera and of course a bigger screen.
It features infinity display and a long-lasting battery at an affordable price for all South Africans.
On the front of the device it features a proximity sensor, front camera, speaker and touchscreen.
The volume key and power key are on the side of the device. The power key can be used to turn on the device or to lock it.
A multipurpose jack is at the bottom of the device for USB interface or to charge the device. (USB Type-C)
The back of the device features a myriad of tech from a GPS antenna to NFC antenna, a dual rear camera, flash, fingerprint recognition sensor, main antenna, speaker, microphone and earphone jack. You can access your SIM card / Memory card on the side of the device through a tray.
When you turn on your device you will find some soft buttons on the button. On the left is your recents button, in the middle is your home button and on the right is the back button.

Battery

I charged the device out the box from a 54% charge to fully charged up in just under 1 hour which is pretty impressive.


Battery saving tips:

  • Use the device care feature for optimisation
  • When not using device turn off screen and use power key for that
  • Activate power saving mode
  • Close any unnecessary apps you are not using
  • Deactivate Bluetooth if not in use
  • Deactivate auto-sync of apps
  • Decrease backlight time
  • Decrease screen brigtness

The device also comes with a fast charging option.
To launch this option taps Settings, tap Device Care, tap Battery, tap Settings and then tap Fast Charging to activate it.

You will need to use the ejection pin which comes with your device to get your SIM tray out. The hole is next to the SIM tray. This will allow you to put in your SIM card and Memory card if you need it.
To restart the device press and hold the power key and hit Restart.
If your device freezes press and hold the Power key and Volume down key simultaneously for more than 7 seconds to restart it.

You can also switch the device to emergency mode to save on battery. With this option you can make an emergency call, send your current location info to others, sound an emergency alarm and more.
To activate emergency mode hold the power key and tap Emergency mode. To deactivate it tap the power key and tap Emergency mode.
With this device you can also sign up for your Samsung account and with it get a host of goodies. To do this launch the settings option, tap Accounts and backup, tap Accounts, tap Add account, tap Samsung account, tap create an account.
A nice option is Smart Switch which allows you to transfer all your info from one Samsung to another. Launch the Settings app, tap Accounts and backup and tap Smart Switch. You can transfer the data via Wi-Fi direct. If you do not have Smart Switch on your other device you can download it from the Play store.
On the previous device tap Send data and then Wireless.
On your device tap Receive.

A nifty option is that you can also set your screen to landscape mode if you prefer a wider angle version of seeing your device and apps. On the home screen tap and hold an empty area, tap Home screen settings and then tap Rotate to landscape mode.

Security
This device certainly has a host of security options for you. You can secure it in any of the following ways: Swipe, Pattern, PIN, Password, None, Face recognition and even Fingerprint recognition. To access these features tap Settings, then Lock screen then Screen lock type.
The device also comes with a built in screen capture option for when you see something you want to capture eg a job advert. You can press the Volume Down button and Power key at the same time. You can also swipe your hand to the left or right across the screen. Screen captures are saved to the Gallery.
If you swipe down from the top of your device you will find your notifications panel which gives you quick access to options such as WiFi, Sound, Bluetooth, Flight Mode and much more.
This device also comes with Bixby which is like your own personal assistant. To fully access it you must register a Samsung account.
You can also block those annoying phone calls by launching the Phone app and tap Settings and then Block numbers.

Camera

Through the lens of the Samsung A30s | Image: Fred Felton

The dual camera on the back and the camera on the front feature a multitude of options from Scene optimiser, Stickers, AR Emoji, lens options, panorama option, creation of GIF’s, Live focus mode which works well for portraits and yes you can now even create stories on your device. Other highlights include a Food option for Food Bloggers, Slow Motion and even a Watermark option which photographers will love.

Something that Samsung have also introduced on this device is the AR Emoji. This option is only really found on high end devices like the Samsung S10. Nice to see it on this device and I’m sure customers will love playing around with it. For those of you that don’t know much about it this allows you to create your own personal Emoji which looks just like you. To create one launch the Camera App, tap AR Emoji and Create my Emoji. Enjoy. You can also download items and accessories that can be used with your Emoji from AR World. On the My Emoji home screen tap Store.

Enjoy playing around with the Multi window option which will allow you to run two different apps at the same time on the screen.

A nice option for parents is the Kids Home option which allows you to setup a safe environment for your Kids before you give them the device.
This device also works with Samsung Wearables such as your Samsung Watch.
It also has Samsung Health which has a nice step counter and monitors your health.

All of your games are now stored in the Games Launcher.

It also works with Smart TVs and IOT products. Launch the Smart Things App for this.
On the settings screen tap Advanced features and tap Send SOS message/Panic Mode. Help messages are then sent if you press the Power key three times. You can also send sound recordings along with a message to recipients.
You can also activate Find My Mobile if you need to find it. Visit findmymobile.samsung.com to activate it.

To avoid pocket dialling tap Display and Accidental touch protection.

There are so many more features but I leave those to you to discover.
Certainly the perfect Christmas Gift for that friend or family member of yours that is a Cassper Nyovest fan.

This device is basically a slimmed down version of a Samsung S10 at a price that fits all pockets.

Rating: 9/10

This review by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton

Thursday, December 12, 2019

Samsung Announced as Headline Sponsor for new Cassper Nyovest Fill Up Concert



The show is set to showcase the power of innovation in a big way.

Mr Yoon of Samsung and Cassper Nyovest : Image: Samsung


In November 2019 Samsung announced its headline sponsorship of the latest in Cassper Nyovest’s famous FillUp series of concerts. This December, Samsung will be firmly behind the popular hip hop star, in the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, as he once again raises the bar for South African artists. Cassper Nyovest’s Fill Up concert series is the most successful hip hop focused event in Africa. This is seamlessly aligned to Samsung’s position as the most loved brand in South Africa in the Sunday Times Top Brand survey, for the 7th year in a row. Additionally, the show’s innovative stage design and production has set the standard and influenced major artists worldwide.
“Cassper is a pioneer intent on blazing new trails. He is the perfect epitome of Samsung’s brand ethos ‘Do What You Can’t”, says Cambridge Mokanyane, Chief Marketing Officer at Samsung South Africa.

Consumers will also be introduced to the Samsung Galaxy A30s, a special edition with
enhancement such as Celebrity Alarm and Galaxy Theme, allowing customers to enjoy flagship features such as Samsung Pay and Bixby Alarm so they Don’t Live Life Nje. The new Samsung Galaxy A30s has triple camera, uninterrupted infinity display and long-lasting battery life at an affordable price that will strike a chord with all South Africans.

Event Details
Date: 15 December 2019
Time: 14:00 – 00:00
Venue: Royal Bafokeng Stadium – Rustenburg
Will you be there?

This edition by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Win a Springboks games hamper



The Springboks brought the Webb Ellis Cup home and toured South Africa after being crowned Rugby World Cup Champions... but who will win the Monopoly Cup in your home? Will you ask the captain of the Springboks Siya Kolisi to help you out? With the exciting Springbok game range, the World Cup spirit can live on...just try not to start a Monopoly family feud!

Which game will you play first?


To WIN these official Springbok games including Springbok Monopoly, Top Trumps & playing cards all you have to do is:

1) Follow us @umhlangalife
2) Follow @epicgamesza
3) Tag your Springbok loving friends and use the #springbokmonopoly
4) Share this post on your story for an additional entry
5) Answer this easy question: Who is the captain of the Springboks?

Email your name, instagram handle, contact details, address and the answer to umhlangalife@gmail.com and put Springboks competition in the subject line.

Competition can end any time before 16th December 2019. Winner will be contacted via Instagram DM or email. Please allow delivery to be 2-4 weeks. Goodluck! #sponsored                        
 Ts and Cs apply.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

What to do in Durban




If you are staying in Umhlanga for the holidays at one of the many hotels or B&B’s you will find that there is plenty to do in Durban. There are warm beaches to explore, Ushaka, Suncoast Entertainment Centre and the Point Waterfront to name but a few. You might even find yourself learning how to surf or going for a stroll on the Durban Promenade.
While you are there you will find a wonderful transport system which can get you around the Durban Beachfront.
It’s called the People Mover Bus System in Durban and it will save you a great deal of money while you are here on holiday.


The People Mover Bus | Image courtesy: Go Durban

Here is some useful information about the People Mover Bus System. There are 23 Buses operating on 3 routes. They travel on a 15 minute frequency. They operate from 5am to 10pm daily and travel on a 20 to 30min frequency on weekends. There are approximately 30 000 passengers that use it each month.




Some of the People Mover buses have free Wi-Fi on board for you to use. The city is also looking at new routes in the future including possibly to Musgrave and also the Pavilion.






We chatted to some people around the city and asked them about the People Mover and this is what they had to say:

Addington Beach resident Cindy Polydorou had this to say:

What do you think about the People Mover?

‘’I like the bus as it’s comfortable, regular and easy to get around.’’

Did you know that the People Mover has free Wi-Fi on it?

‘’Yes I know about the Wi-Fi.’’

What do you use the Wi-Fi for?

‘’I use it for WhatsApp, Facebook and to check my emails.’’

Does anyone else in your family use the People Mover?

‘’My daughter uses it every day for school there and back.’’

Where do you go on the People Mover?

‘’I use it to get to the shops like Spar, Pick n Pay and also to places like Suncoast, Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Botanical Gardens and Grey Street.’’


Stephanie Rail from South Beach, Durban had this to say:

Do you use the People Mover?

‘’Yes, it gets me where I need to be along the beach.’’

Do you use the Wi-Fi on it?

‘’I don’t use the Wi-Fi. I don’t sit on my phone in the bus. I sit and read my book.’’

Where do you go on the People Mover?

‘’I go to North Beach for the shopping and restaurants, occasionally the casino complex.’’

A trip will cost you R5-50 which allows for one free change over at the transfer point.
You can also get a MUVO Card which is used on the buses. It’s like a smart card and you can load multiple trips on it. You can buy it all over the city.

For more info visit: www.muvo.co.za

This edition by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton 






Tuesday, October 29, 2019

A Five Star Hotel On A Train




This October I was invited by Rovos Rail to come and experience their train. You can’t really say no can you. I mean it’s like a five star hotel on a train.

What a train | Image: Rovos Rail Tours


I tried out their Durban to Pretoria route and I must say I was rather pleasantly surprised. From the wonderful welcome by the staff at Durban Station where we were whisked away to their private lounge to enjoy welcome cocktails and tantalising snacks which were a sample of what awaited us on the train.

Pretoria to Durban | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Guests come from all over the world to travel this train, from the USA, UK, France, Brazil and even South Africa.
When we boarded the train we were whisked away to our suite and what a suite it was. I’m still not sure how they fitted a huge bed in it. Not only that but two chairs a table, bar fridge, coffee maker and plenty of wardrobe space. The bed had a heated blanket which was a nice touch especially on those cold nights. The bathroom had a shower and toilet in it and even a heated towel rail. Bear in mind we are talking about on a train here.  For all you tech heads they also have USB plug points.

How did they fit that bed in the room? | Image: Fred Felton

Each car has a dedicated hostess who looks after all of your needs.
When we had unpacked we headed off to the lounge car and saloon car where afternoon tea was being served. Make sure you have some as you can have coffee, sweet treats, cakes and even koeksusters. Haven’t had such a tasty koeksuster like that in a very long time. It takes me back to days with my family in Pretoria.

Afternoon tea | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

The dress on board is smart casual during the day and during the night guests are encouraged to dress up for dinner. So break out your suit and tie and dress to impress. The dining cart is a sight to behold with wonderful décor all around. Guests are treated to a real fine dining experience along with their choice of drinks and wine. Let me put it this way you don’t leave on an empty stomach.

Dining on another level | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Fine dining | Image: Fred Felton 


As you climb into bed each night the train slowly rocks you to sleep and before you know it the next day is waiting for you along with a delicious breakfast.

Spionkop | Image: Fred Felton

Our first stop was at Ladysmith. We headed off to Spionkop where guests had a choice of a battlefield excursion or a game drive. We chose the game drive option and were treated to some wonderful game sightings and spectacular scenery. Whatever you do don’t forget your camera.

Spot the giraffe | Image: Fred Felton 

After a brief stop for tea or coffee we headed back to the train and it was almost time for lunch. In the afternoon another game drive awaited at Nambiti. This game farm is home to the big 5 and you will see plenty of wildlife on this drive. Pro Tip – Wear something warm along with a scarf and beanie as these game drives can get a bit chilly.
Anyway back at Nambiti we were treated to sightings of Elephant, Hippo, Buck, Giraffe, Wildebeest and many more.

Elephants aplenty | Image: Fred Felton

We were welcomed back to the train by the friendly Rovos Rail staff and drinks awaited us as we chatted with fellow guests about the wildlife we had seen.

Rovos at Dusk | Image: Fred Felton

Now and again I had to pinch myself as I felt as if I was in some Agatha Christie detective novel or even a James Bond movie. That’s what awaits you on this train, that glamorous old world lifestyle.

A passage to another world | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Some of the cuisine that stood out for me included the stuffed chicken thighs with aubergine and cherry tomato pilau, the heavenly chocolate mousse with chocolate soil, the refreshing chilled cucumber and melon soup and the banoffee tartlet with banana and caramel cream. There were plenty more tasty surprises on the train but I leave those up to you to enjoy on your trip.

That refreshing chilled cucumber and melon soup | Image: Fred Felton

On my excursions up and down the train I couldn’t help but marvel at the detail that has gone into the interiors and the luxury couches and chairs where you can sit. A great place to relax and enjoy the scenery is on the back of the saloon car where you can sit on benches outside and feel the breeze over you as the train carries on.

The lounge car | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

Suites are named after famous people and places around Africa. We stayed in the Constatia Suite and I spotted Kimberley, Drakensberg and even Madiba amongst many others along the way.
Guests can also help themselves to books to read or even play one of the many games that are on offer.
There is also a cocktail evening that is a wonderful ice breaker where all the guests meet and mingle over delightful cocktails.

The Observation Balcony my favourite spot | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

On the last day we had some wonderful sights just outside Johannesburg and then nearer to Pretoria. When we reached the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria we were all greeted personally by Mr Rohan Vos as we stepped off the train. He is the founder of Rovos Rail and an amazing man to chat to.

Mr Rohan Vos | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

You can also sign up for a tour of the workshop at his station after your trip. This is highly recommended for those that love train history as you will see some wonderful vintage models there.

The Rovos Rail Pretoria Station Lounge | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

The Rovos Rail train station in Pretoria is something to behold. It’s like one of those olden day train stations but with modern luxuries. The bathrooms don’t just have toilets and basins they also have showers so you can freshen up if you want.
Delicious chocolates and treats are scattered all over the lounge area and guests can enjoy a welcome drink as they wait to move on to their next leg of their journey. Free Wi-Fi is included.

It was with a hint of sadness that I left the Rovos Rail Pretoria Station. It was a wonderful experience and I am already planning my next trip.
There are many more hidden delights awaiting you on the train. I’m not telling you what they are you will just have to find out for yourself.
You will find yourself leaving the train having made friends with fellow guests. I certainly did.

If you would like to experience Rovos Rail Tours they have tours from Durban to Pretoria, Pretoria to Cape Town, South Africa to Namibia, South Africa to Vic Falls, South Africa to Dar es Salaam,    Dar es Salaam to Lobito, I could go on and on but why don’t you just visit their site and book a trip.

30th year anniversary specials | Image: Rovos Rail Tours

It’s their 30th year anniversary and they have a special on so take advantage now. They also have specials for next year as well.

For reservation and general enquiries: rovos.com |reservations@rovos.co.za | +27 (0)12 315 8242 | +27 (0)21 421 4020.


Rating: Highly recommended

Review by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton

Friday, September 20, 2019

When last did you explore the Inanda Heritage Route?



This week I was invited by Durban Tourism to take part in the Discover Durban challenge and to explore the Inanda Heritage Route. I joined a group of media, celebrities, influencers and even Sharks Rugby players to explore this route. This being Heritage Month it is the perfect time to explore Durban and all it has to offer.

We set off on a trip which took us to Inanda. This was all part of the Hello Spring campaign which Durban Tourism presented. They took us on a tour of the many interesting nodes in the area.

The Gandhi Sculpture at the Settlement
Our first stop was the Gandhi Settlement. Here you can find out much information about Gandhi and his many quotes are all over the venue. You will also find a statue of the man. The settlement also features a reconstruction of the original house which was burnt down during the 1985 Inanda Riots.

The grave of John L. Dube
Our next stop was the Ohlange Institute which was started by John Langalibalele Dube in 1900. He became the first president of the African National Congress. His grave is on the premises. President Nelson Mandela cast his vote in the first democratic election of 1994 at the Ohlange Institute.

Plenty of fun activities at Inanda Dam
After that we headed off to the breath taking Inanda Dam. It comes up at you from out of nowhere and the views are quite spectacular. It is located on the Mngeni River near Hillcrest, Kwazulu Natal. If you love water sports, camping, kayaking or biking this is the place for you. Photographers will also love the views and Instaworthy spots. It’s only a 30 minute drive from Durban. The Durban Green Corridor runs a trail centre next to the dam. Here you can find break facilities, sanitation as well as secure parking.

Holly Rey
We finished the day at Ezweni Lodge and then had lunch overlooking the Inanda Dam. At lunch we were serenaded by the likes of Holly Rey who performed her hit single ‘Deeper’.
The Inanda Heritage Route has much to offer and this was just some of the highlights. You can also explore Inanda Seminary, The Shembe Church, The Water Fall and Rasta Caves at uMzinyathi Gorge and much more. There is plenty of accommodation including the Bellabheka B&B and Ikhaya lentokozo B&B, Egugwini guest house. If you are looking for a good late night party check out Under The Moon or Maphisa Jazz Lounge. For a good meal try Artizen restaurant or Nonku’s all in one kitchen. If you like to shop try Bridge City or Dube Village Mall.

For more info contact Inanda Tourism: 031-322-2856

To book a Heritage Tour or Adventure Tour call 031-510-7008 or email: ink@inktourism.co.za

You can also contact Durban Tourism: www.visitdurban.travel  or call 031-322-4164 or                email info@visitdurban.travel

Find them on social media @dbntourism

#durbanhasmore

This edition and images by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton


Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Interview with Film Director Angus Gibson



Film Director Angus Gibson was in Durban recently for the Durban International Festival to promote the movie ‘Back of the Moon’. 

Film Director Angus Gibson

He is also one of the people behind hit shows such as ‘Yizo Yizo’ and ‘Isibaya’.
I asked him some questions about filmmaking. This is what he had to say:

What does a director do?

A director interprets a script, overseeing the performances, the camerawork, the sound, the edit of the film – constantly making choices which guide the spirit and the aesthetic of the film. A director is a leader on the film set and a storyteller.

Tell us about 'Back of the Moon'?

Back of the Moon takes place in 1958 in Sophiatown, the night before the residents of one of the streets will be forcibly removed and taken to Meadowlands way out of the city. The central character Max aka Badman is an intellectual and might have been a liberation leader, but instead he has become the leader of a gang and he is disappointed in himself. On this night that he has decided that he will fight an impossible fight against being removed from his house – Eve Msomi, a Miriam Makeba kind of figure that he has loved from afar, lands in his orbit and they spend magical hours together. It is the beginning of a beautiful relationship, but his gang has turned against him.

What advice do you have for young directors?

Be original. Find a way to show your talent – be it in writing, in music videos or short films – even if you do not have access to high end equipment, use your cell phone. Do research in the creation of the characters and the world you are describing. Your
own life experience is a useful resource. Above all you need to hustle and not give up. There are many people wanting to get the opportunity to direct and if you get the opportunity, give it your all.

Advice on how to get distribution deals?

I am no expert in this field but film markets and festivals are good places in which to get deals, before and after production. Again one needs to hustle to get the proposal or the finished film seen by the right people.

Why do you think 'Yizo Yizo' blew up like it did and became so successful?

At the time that it was made there had been no accurate representation of a township culture. In Yizo Yizo urban black South Africans felt that they recognized themselves on screen for the first time. Again it was based on a whole year of research in the township schools. There were characters and situations that people related to and fell in love with.


Advice for Producers pitching shows to TV networks?

At the moment TV networks seem to be in search of a hook right up front that will attract and draw an audience in. You need to be very aware of the audience that you are speaking to. You need to create a set of characters and describe a world that they will
relate to and will sustain strong drama. Again if you have a brave broadcaster, original ideas feel key. At the time that we pitched Isibaya, a rural, traditional world had not been depicted on screen for a long time. It felt fresh and different.


The film 'Back of the Moon' won the Best South African Feature Film award at the 40th Durban International Film Festival.

Back of the Moon opens at cinemas countrywide on Friday, 6th September 2019.


Interview by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton


Thursday, July 25, 2019

Networking Events at The Loeries



The Loeries is in Durban soon and there will be plenty of networking opportunities for you. Many people from the advertising and communications industry will be in town to attend.



Loeries Creative Week happens from 19 to 25 August 2019.

These are just some of your options:

DStv Seminar of Creativity at the ICC
Master Classes  - learn from the world’s best brands at the ICC
Brand South Africa VIP Brunch – meet the who’s who in the industry at California Dreaming
DStv Beach Caf̩ РNetwork while sipping sundowners at the Elangeni Beachfront
Loeries Expo – discover the latest industry trends at the ICC

There are so many more options for you during Loeries Creative Week.
To book your tickets visit www.loeries.com


This edition by Fred Felton | Twitter @fredfelton

Sunday, June 30, 2019

Ethekwini's 2019/20 Financial Year Budget Adopted



The call made by President Cyril Ramaphosa of Thuma Mina together with an emphasis to action local governments mandate, resonated throughout the final Budget speech 2019/20 delivered by Mayor Zandile Gumede. The Citys R50.6billion consolidated budget was presented at a sitting of full council, on, 29 May 2019 at City Hall.

A lot has been done and we are proud of the progress we have made. The most important thing is that we are transforming lives and impacting communities. Our democracy
is growing.

Gumede outlined the plans for the City going forward including the catalytic projects that will transform the Durbans landscape and promote future growth and development.
The catalytic projects planned for the City will have a huge economic and social impact. This will be measured in terms of the number of jobs created and how it supports mixed-use development by integrating commercial and housing needs, which will generate additional income through rates, said Mayor Gumede.
The budget is a direct response to the call from communities who participated in the two-month long draft budget consultation process.
They came out in their numbers during our budget hearings. We must not disappoint them by asking them to contribute and later ignore their requests. Our people are not asking for much, they want simple things like speed humps, fixing of potholes, streetlights, passages and cleaning of their areas.
If we want our people to trust us on bigger things, let us deliver on these small things. We want less workshops and talk shops but actual delivery. We have spoken and strategised for far too long, now its time for action. We have a lot of theories and documents on our table, but less action added Gumede.

The budget speech also highlighted the progress made through the Radical Economic Transformation (RET) framework through execution and monitoring of RET projects.
The Radical Agrarian Socio-Economic Transformation (RASET) programme was another success brought to light that is now integrated in the structure of the organisation, with the approval of the RASET Agribusiness Department organogram.
In terms of the Citys economic development, Gumede outlined the Shape Durban initiative which is the new inclusive economic growth plan that the municipality has developed. It is a five year partnership that aims to build a stronger and more inclusive economy through concrete interventions.
The municipality has also appointed Team Durban that will provide strategic foreign direct investment advice and support to the city and act as a sounding board for council leadership and the new Invest Durban Unit on business and investment promotion matters.
Further, the Municipality's Investment Promotion Strategy and Implementation Plan is an integrated approach that will allow for the majority of our local citizens to access public transport, goods and services in a cost-effective and efficient manner and to also to respond to growing the Citys rates base. This will enable the City to meet the local socio-economic obligations.

In her address Gumede welcomed the announcement made by newly appointed Premier, Sihle Zikalala on the continuation of the provision of houses and ensuring a sustainable livelihood to all.
Over the next few years, the Province has promised to deliver no less than 125 000 units. One of the major focus of the Premiers administration will be to develop and implement a clear plan to provide houses to all people who reside in transit camps.

BUDGET FOR 2019/20
The budget aims to facilitate and ensure the provision of infrastructure, services and support. The budget is expected to create an enabling environment for all residents to utilise their full potential and access opportunities. This is action budget, it an implementation season, an age of Thuma Mina! We want action that is our emphasis, said Gumede.
The budget supports the Citys commitment to broadening service delivery, attracting investors and expanding investment in infrastructure, within the current constrained economic environment we are currently experiencing.
The Municipality has identified priority areas to be addressed during the 2019/20 financial year to ensure immediate measures to reignite development and structural reforms over the medium term in line with the strategic vision outlined in the Integrated Development Plan (IDP).
The Capital expenditure is budgeted to rise to R 7.9 billion in 2019/20 and is allocated to meeting infrastructure and household services needs and backlogs over the medium term. About R 3.7 billion of this is directed to new housing developments and interim servicing of informal settlements.

SOCIAL PACKAGE
As a caring City, provision has been made for residents who are unable to pay for basic services. The Citys social package of R 3.9 billion for 2019/20 is partially funded by the Municipalitys equitable share allocation of R 3.2 billion from national government. The basic social package aims to help more vulnerable residents by supporting them with basic services and also by providing them with rates relief in the form of rebates or discounts. This is an affirmation of the Municipalitys commitment to push back the frontiers of poverty by providing support to residents who cannot afford to pay, because of adverse social and economic realities said Gumede.

The social package is outlines as follows:
Assessment Rates
Residential Properties valued up to R 230 000 will be exempt from paying rates. All other properties valued above R 230 000, the first R 120 000 no rates charged.
Pensioners, child-headed households, disability grantees and the medically boarded are exempt from paying rates, with the maximum rebate not exceeding R 4 373.
No rates levied on the first R 30 000 value of vacant land and Outside the Urban Development Line

Water
The first 6kl of water is free to households with property values under R 250 000.

Electricity
The first 50kwh of electricity is free to residents using less than 150kwh per month in Eskom reticulated areas.
The first 65kwh of electricity is free to residents using less than 150kwh per month in eThekwini reticulated areas

Refuse Removal
Residential property valued up to R 250 000 exempt from domestic refuse removal tariff. In addition, a free basic refuse removal service is also available to indigent consumer units living in rural, informal settlements and non-kerbside residents.

Sewerage/Sanitation
The first 6kl of effluent disposal is exempt for all properties with values under R 250 000. In addition, a free basic service is also available to indigent consumer units with VIPs, urine diversion toilets and in informal settlements serviced by means of a toilet/ablution block within 200m.

TARIFF INCREASES
As a caring city, every effort has been made to cushion the ratepayers and customers under the current state of the economy. The rates increase of 6.9% is about the lowest in the country, especially when compared to Johannesburg (11.7%) and Cape Town (averaging about 9% revaluing of properties)
The electricity tariff increases of 13.07% are an indicative increase due to the 15.69% increase expected from Eskom. However, should NERSA further review the Eskom increase, the City will also review the tariffs.
Water tariff increase of 15% for domestic consumers and 15.5% for business are based on the Umgeni Water Board increase of 9.6% and takes into account the additional capital expenditure on Water in terms of the rollout of the Western Aqueduct, huge urbanization increase trends, provision of ablution facilities, as well as free basic water. The sewer tariff has been contained to 9.9% despite similar challenges to water in terms of increased service delivery demands, capital expenditure, ablution blocks and additional servicing of pit latrines.
The 9.9% refuse tariff increase is due to additional areas being serviced, additional cleaning of the beachfront, CBD, and townships, and hence the increase above CPI could not be avoided.



JOB CREATION, SKILLS, POVERTY ALLEVIATION & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Through township renewal projects, the City has succeeded in bringing economic opportunities and job creation closer to the people.
The 2019/20 budget makes provision for the continuation of following projects:
- A capital budget provision of R9m, and an operating budget of R6.8m has been made for the Agri-park in the 2019/20 year. To create 19,925 jobs over 5 years.
- The Zibambele Programme (R 101 m) benefits over 6 500 of the Citys most destitute citizens
- Sihlanvimvelo stream cleaning (R 39.7m) over 500 jobs created.
- 1 500 caretakers employed at ablution facilities with a further 70 to be employed as further ablution facilities are completed
- 1 600 people employed by DSW utilizing the EPWP grant. Target to create 25 855 work opportunities.
- Use of 1 483 plumbing contractors on a rotational basis to undertake water related services
- 17 major contractors employing about 1 800 people for refuse removal services
- 140 community based contractors utilized in the roll out of rural water and sanitation projects
- A provision of R 87.7 m has been made to increase the number of soup kitchens from 74 currently to 92. The main aim is to have 1 soup kitchen per ward. About 450 beneficiaries are served in each soup kitchen site.
- 426 Agro Ecology community gardens. Total Agricultural Operational Budget of R 31.3m. Total Agricultural Capital Budget of R 19,8m
- Youth Development initiatives for the 2019/20 year amount to R 6.2 m trainee and graduate trainee bursary/loan student programs. In addition there is provision of R 19.5 m in respect of other youth development initiatives.
- 10 graduate engineers employed under the Water mentorship program

The following have been achieved through the eThekwini Municipal Academy (EMA) and has benefitted a number of young people:
- Work experience training to 1 118 students
- Apprenticeships 801
- Skills Programmes about 1 077 learners have benefited
- Learnerships about 371 learners
- Bursaries awarded to 120 students
- Financial relief to 138 students towards their university fees
- We have rolled out 31 Career Expos and 30 Life Orientation educators trained
- Our Career Expo and Youth Employability indaba attracts more exhibitors and visitors from schools, communities, corporate and government entities.
- Successful Girls Leadership Camp in Ntshongweni Dam last year.

CLIMATE CHANGE
In response to climate change and in light of the recent devastating floods the City will implement tangible initiatives to protect its citizens as well as its economic investments.
The Citys Disaster Management and Emergency Control operates on a 24/7 basis to provide services in terms of Disaster Management Operations, Emergency call taking,
Dispatching of all Emergency Services, CCTV monitoring and programs such as risk assessment and risk reduction interventions.

A provision of R10m has been made in the operating budget for additional staff and general expenses and a further provision has been made in the Operating budget for
R9,3m for additional Fire and Emergency staff.
Gumede concluded her address by reaffirming her commitment to work together with all stakeholders and make eThekwini the best city to live in.
The Municipality's budget for the 2019/20 financial year was approved by Council.

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