South Africa

Pretoria - The courts should show little mercy to those found guilty of killing or abusing children, says Minister for Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Lulu Xingwana.

Durban - A relaxed Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe earlier today completed a 3km walk along Durban's beachfront to raise awareness about the rising sea levels.

Mahikeng - Young people in the North West who are interested in working in the hospitality and tourism industry are being given a chance to gain experience overseas.

Pretoria - The Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities has condemned in the strongest possible terms the rape of a five-year old child from Limpopo.

Durban - South Africans need to work with government to help curb the effects of climate change, says Shaka Dzebu, who is leading by example.

Cape Town - The Department of Social Development wants to forge a new partnership and understanding with non-profit organisations (NPOs), Social Development Director General Vusi Madonsela said today.

Pretoria - The Department of Labour has conducted inspections in 200 000 workplaces countrywide in the past year and ensured 80 percent compliance with various aspects of labour legislation, Parliament heard on Wednesday.

Pretoria - Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu has applauded the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for the role it is playing in the Congolese election.

Pretoria - The North West provincial government is considering asking the South African National Defence Force to assist in overcoming the scourge of rhino poaching, Premier Thandi Modise says.

Pretoria - Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Richard Baloyi says he will work closely with the Western Cape province to investigate allegations raised by Swellendam residents during a community meeting at the weekend.

Pretoria - Telkom's outgoing Group CEO Nombulelo Moholi says the company is intensifying its focus on its short term priorities to ensure management stability and to see to it that the company achieves its business priorities.

Durban - UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres and South African International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane received a petition against climate change and a book of postcards signed by children during a rally on Sunday.

Pretoria - It has been a hassle-free entry into South Africa for international delegates attending COP17 in Durban.

Winterveldt - Gauteng's newly launched Automotive Hub hopes to turn the tide of unemployment among the youth in the province.

Pretoria - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this morning takes to the polls for the country's presidential and legislative elections.