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National Treasury welcomes Minister, Deputy Ministers
National Treasury welcomes Minister, Deputy Ministers
The National Treasury has welcomed the newly sworn in Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana and the two Deputy Ministers of Finance, Dr David Masondo and Ashor Sarupen.
Godongwana has served as Minister of Finance since August 2021, while Deputy Minister Masondo has been with the department since May 2019. This will be Sarupen’s first time at the department.
“The department looks forward to working together with the principals and the seventh administration as a collective. It will be important for the department to ensure a continuation of the balanced fiscal stance set out in the 2024 Budget, which aims to stabilise public finances and reduce fiscal and economic risks, while promoting economic growth and supporting vulnerable members of society,” Treasury said on Wednesday.
The department’s welcome message follows the swearing in ceremony of the Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Cabinet ministers of the seventh administration that were sworn in on Wednesday.
READ | Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in
During his tenure as the Minister of Finance, National Treasury focused on returning public finances to stability and stabilising debt.
“Minister Godongwana’s leadership contributed to National Treasury implementing significant financial sector reforms, including the much publicised and anticipated TwoPot System, which will come into effect in September 2024.
“Deputy Minister Masondo as the Chair of the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) played a crucial in steering the mandate of the PIC and ensuring the company, with assets under management of over R2 trillion, made sound investments,” National Treasury said.
The office of the Deputy Minister also played a crucial role in overseeing the work of Operation Vulindlela, an initiative highly commended for its assistance in supporting departments to implement structural reforms in key sectors such as energy, water and telecommunications.
Deputy Minister Sarupen served on the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Council in 2011 and served as the Chief Whip of the Official Opposition in the Council. He also served as a Member of the Gauteng Legislature between 2014 and 2019 and subsequently served as a Member of Parliament and the Democratic Alliance’s Shadow Minister on the Appropriations Committee since 2019. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 09:30
539 views
Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy – Ntshavheni
Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy - Ntshavheni
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has moved to clarify that any policy or significant decision will be taken through Cabinet first before a decision on implementation can be taken.
The Minister was speaking at a media briefing a day after the swearing in ceremony of the Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration on Wednesday.
The ceremony heralded in the Government of National Unity formed by members of eleven different political parties.
The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation.
During the briefing, Ntshavheni was at pains to explain that policy is not decided upon by individual ministers but through Cabinet.
“It should be stressed that both the President and individual ministers are duty bound to take the issues of policy, significant decisions such as decisions with financial consequences exceeding a department’s approved budget and any other matter…. they must take those matters to Cabinet.
“Failure to do so could undermine the validity of such a decision. So there is no single minister who can expropriate a decision of Cabinet or that policy decision to themselves because then that policy will not be valid in terms of the laws of the Republic…as provided for in the Constitution,” she said at Thursday’s briefing in Cape Town.
WATCH | Media briefing on the Government of National Unity
Doubling down on her emphasis, the minister said as head of the National Executive, President Ramaphosa “exercises the executive authority of the Republic together with other members of the Cabinet and members of the Cabinet are only ministers”.
“In this regard, the President, with the Cabinet he is responsible for, and I’m quoting directly from the Constitution, implementing national legislation unless the Constitution or an Act of Parliament provides others.
“Two, developing and implementing national policy. So, the national policies are not of individual ministers but of Cabinet.”
Ntshavheni noted that although the Constitution provides that Cabinet take collective responsibility, it gives leeway for determination on which matters can be left to individual ministers.
“[It] allows the Cabinet and the President to determine the way and procedures by which they work together, including leaving certain matters or kinds of matters to be dealt with by a single member of Cabinet, meaning a minister.
“Therefore, if a matter is not a routine matter or departmental specific matter or function, it must first be referred to Cabinet as must all matters that Cabinet itself has decided should come to it. In general, if a matter is not a routine matter it must be referred to Cabinet for its consideration by way of a Cabinet Memorandum,” she explained.
The Minister said the President can also determine when a decision that has been referred to him should be discussed in Cabinet first.
“This envisages that the President himself may determine that a President’s Minute referred to him for signature…should in fact go to the Cabinet first and, accordingly, refer it back to the Minister to take to the Cabinet.
“This is an approach which is accepted by the Cabinet as its way of “acting together with the President” when he exercises executive authority under the Constitution,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:27
416 views
Setting priorities for the seventh administration
Setting priorities for the seventh administration
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has outlined the process that the Government of National Unity (GNU) will undertake to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration.
This comes after the swearing-in ceremony of the new members of the National Executive that took place on Wednesday, 3 July 2024.
Addressing a media briefing on Thursday, the Minister said the government’s priorities and programme of action will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU.
WATCH | Media briefing on the GNU
To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), which is chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.
After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for Thursday to Friday (11-12 July).
NDP: A compass to guide
The Minister explained that the ultimate "filter" that determines the priorities of government will be the goals as articulated in the National Development Plan.
“The choice of priorities is guided by their alignment to the attainment of the goals of the National Development Plan (Vision 2030) as adopted by Parliament in 2012. As a country, we adopted the NDP in 2012, which was widely consulted [on], and it came to parliament for adoption. This is our plan to deliver a better South Africa for all by 2030.
“Later, the United Nations (UN) developed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are closely linked to that plan. As we implement the NDP, we are also implementing the SDGs,” the Minister said.
Following steps
The two day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.
“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets.
“Departments present both their strategic plans and Annual Performance Plans to Parliament and [the] Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) for oversight. The National Treasury will fund the implementation of the MTSF through the National Budget that is tabled and approved by Parliament,” Ntshavheni explained.
The DPME is responsible for overseeing and reporting on the implementation of the MTSF (the consolidated government view), and the Annual Performance Plans and submits the reports of alignment and performance to both the President and the Cabinet.
We wear a Government cap
“As we are in a GNU, the decisions that we collectively agree on as the programme of action is the programme of action of government. We are collectively responsible for implementing that programme of action,” the Minister said.
"As we go into government, we do not wear a party cap, but a government cap."
Appointment of Ministers
On the issue of when Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers, Ntshavheni said when the President of the seventh administration assumed office or took the Oath of Office, Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers.
“This means all the executive authority powers moved back to the single executive authority, which is the President. No Minister of the sixth administration could make a pronouncement or a commitment or sign anything after the President took his oath of office.
READ | The oath has been taken, President Ramaphosa is inaugurated
“Similarly, the Ministers of the seventh administration only assumed office yesterday, 3rd July 2024 when they took their Oath of Office.
“Consequently, the priorities of the seventh administration are only going to be adopted at the scheduled Lekgotla and Ministers will be using this period until the Lekgotla to receive briefings from their departments and consult on how to shape the direction of the discussions at the Lekgotla,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:40
302 views
Gauteng government abandons hundreds of homeless people in Tshwane shelters
Organisation that provided food and social services owed R2.9-million
A Guide On How To Invest In It For Your Business Success
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Government welcomes achievement of primary budget surplus
Government welcomes achievement of primary budget surplus
Under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa, the sixth administration has achieved the first primary budget surplus in 15 years, said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).
The last time government had a budget surplus was before the 2008 global financial crisis.
“This commendable achievement was attained due to the support the National Treasury received from the President, the Minister of Finance, and the Cabinet of the sixth administration despite many challenges that confronted the national fiscus,” the GCIS said in a statement on Saturday.
These challenges include the economy that had to recover from the global economic crisis, State Capture, prolonged financial constraints due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the civil unrest of July 2021.
“The sixth government administration put in place prudent fiscal measures aimed at mitigating the country's dire economic situation, including the implementation of cost-cutting measures within the government, fewer bailouts to state-owned entities, strong monitoring of key performance measures to improve their performance, and the deployment of multi-disciplinary intervention teams that included the private sector where applicable.
“State-owned enterprises were propelled to impactful turn-around plans implementation, which has resulted in green shots in self-sustaining business models. Critical economic growth drivers, such as infrastructure development, received necessary support and focus. Under President Ramaphosa's leadership, the government engaged regularly with business and labour leaders, whose input is crucial to the economic growth conversation,” the GCIS said.
Government said that as the seventh administration begins its work; it does so with the advantage of a budget surplus, which will support the implementation of outstanding goals of Vision 2030 – the National Development Plan.
The government reiterated the importance of collaboration to achieve faster economic growth through job creation and public-private partnerships, among other strategies. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 13:23
275 views
Call to educate public on national budget process
Call to educate public on national budget process
The National Treasury has called on stakeholders and provinces to collaborate with it in hosting events to educate the public on the budget process.
This comes after the National Treasury hosted, for the first time, a successful post-Budget engagement during Youth Month that involved unpacking the national budget to children.
The engagement was in collaboration with the Western Cape Commissioner for Children (WCCC).
The main objective of the outreach programme was to raise awareness about national budget information that is readily available, outline the budget process and to develop a child-centred budget document titled the Coolkid’s Guide to the Budget.
“Public participation in the budget process is essential for transparent and accountable governance. In February, the Minister of Finance tables the National Budget, which includes allocations for children and the youth across various national and provincial departments.
“By involving the public, especially young people, the government fosters inclusive development, builds trust in its resource allocation, and ensures that the budget process is accessible and understandable,” National Treasury said on Friday.
The Children’s Budget Engagement targeted children between the ages of 13 to 17 (Grade 8 – 12 learners).
The engagement took place virtually on Wednesday 26 June 2024 while the nation commemorated the month of the African Child as well as Youth Month.
National Treasury officials presented to the children, who in turn engaged and asked questions that were responded to.
Key focus areas included: how the National Treasury makes sure that the budget is spent effectively on realising child rights, the focus of children’s involvement in the decision-making process, and the prioritisation of children regarding Early Childhood Development (ECD), social welfare, health care, and quality education.
“The National Treasury discussed these topics using creative and colourful infographics and mind-maps that made budget education fun and interactive. The WCCC also developed products displaying their understanding of the budget process; these included a budget recipe poster, and a budget story in English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, and South African sign language.
“The Commissioner for Children commended the National Treasury for making the efforts to make budget information available in a child-centred and child-friendly manner. One of the child government monitors said that they love the layout of the pages of the Children’s Budget, they love that it is easy to understand, entertaining, and makes them look forward to learning about the budget.
“The National Treasury invites other stakeholders and provinces to collaborate in hosting similar engagement events to reach groups that are not necessarily aware of or catered for in the budget documents.
The children’s products can be found on all National Treasury and WCCC social media platforms. The Coolkid’s Guide to the Budget is also available on the National Treasury website (www.treasury.gov.za). –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 11:43
102 views
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Technology
In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying connected and efficient is paramount. With the plethora of technological devices available, from laptops and tablets to cellphones and wearables, making the right choice can be daunting. This guide aims to simplify your decision-making process, helping you select the best devices and accessories to suit your needs. Understanding Your …
Gauteng non-profit organisations reject findings of province’s forensic probe
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Maximizing Your Trade Show Success with Quality Display Materials
Trade shows are a significant opportunity for businesses to showcase their products, network with potential clients, and solidify their brand presence. Success at these events hinges on the quality of your display materials. Investing in high-quality display materials not only attracts attention but also conveys professionalism and trustworthiness. Let’s explore the essential components for a …
New KZN Finance MEC shuts down Treasury’s secondary office
New KZN Finance MEC shuts down Treasury's secondary office
Newly appointed KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, has started to demonstrate his commitment to ensure effective spending of the budget by closing down the office on the 9th floor of The Marine Building in Durban.
Rodgers said the closure of the leased offices will save the KZN Treasury an estimated R1 million a year, which will be directed to other strategic service delivery needs of the department in supporting the province.
Rodgers said his main priority was to stabilise the finances of KwaZulu-Natal and work with the Treasury team, as well as Members of the Executive Council (EXCO), to ensure that strategic decisions are being taken in order to safeguard the provincial fiscus.
“During my consultation with my executive team in the department, I directed that business cannot continue as usual and we need to streamline operations. In this regard, I have decided to close the Durban office, which served as a secondary office with an annual lease amount of R1 115 786.40, translating to a total value of just over R5 578 000 over five years that we will save,” Rodgers said.
He said his team will operate from the Pietermaritzburg office and the team will be as prescribed by the Ministerial handbook.
“My wish is to enhance the transparency of our decision-making in resource allocation and utilisation, and I am prepared to make tough decisions if we are to demonstrate that we mean business when we say we will stabilise the finances in the province with prudent fiscal management. As KZN Treasury, we must lead by example,” Rodgers said.
The MEC said he was committed to stabilising spending, eliminating irregular expenditure in departments, attracting foreign investment, as well as ensuring accountability and transparency.
Rodgers, who is a member of the Democratic Alliance (DA), is among the provincial Cabinet which includes Members of the Provincial Legislature from the Inkatha Freedom Party, African National Congress (ANC), DA and National Freedom Party (NFP), as announced last week by newly-inaugurated KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thami Ntuli.
Rodgers took over the reins from the ANC’s Peggy Nkonyeni.
The new provincial Cabinet is as follows:
- Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC: Musa Zondi (IFP).
- Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC: Thulasizwe Buthelezi (IFP).
- Health MEC: Nomagugu Simelane (ANC).
- Social Development MEC: Mbali Shinga (NFP).
- Public Works MEC: Marthinus Meyer (DA).
- Finance MEC: Francois Rodgers (DA).
- Agriculture and Rural Development MEC: Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa (IFP).
- Transport and Human Settlement MEC: Siboniso Duma (ANC)
- Education MEC: Sipho Hlomuka (ANC).
- Sports Arts and Culture MEC: Mntomuhle Khawula (IFP).
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 06/25/2024 - 11:04
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Gauteng government buys newspaper space to praise MEC
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About 300 representatives from organisations across the province travelled to Johannesburg to meet social development officials and the Premier
Parliament begins setting up internal structures
Parliament begins setting up internal structures
With the election of the Presiding Officers and the inauguration of the new President done and dusted, the seventh Parliament will now shift focus to establishing internal structures necessary for Parliament to function.
Among the activities that will unfold are the Rules Committees of the National Assembly (NA) and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) meetings.
“These committees will establish the structures necessary for the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces to function. They also decide on the constitution of the two Houses’ respective committees, the formula for whips, speaking time during debates, and the number of Members that will serve on a committee.
“Whips are important figures in the parliamentary system as they are responsible for discipline within the political parties and ensuring that Members attend and participate in parliamentary sessions. The formula for whips is a strategic determination that influences the dynamics of parliamentary proceedings. On the other hand, setting of speaking times is crucial for maintaining order and decorum in the Houses and ensuring that discussions are productive and focused,” Parliament said.
Constituting the oversight committees is guided by the Cabinet portfolios designated by the President as the committees exercise oversight over each government department.
Parliament said committees are essential in scrutinising the work of government, providing a platform for debate, and ensuring accountability.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa in consultation with the Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) Thoko Didiza and the Chairperson of the NCOP Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane will set the date for the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).
“The OPA is an important ceremony in the form of a joint sitting of the two Houses that marks the official opening of the seventh Parliament. Unlike the State of the Nation Address that takes place annually in February, the OPA occurs once every five years after elections to announce the new administration’s plans, and it marks the beginning of the new parliamentary term,” Parliament said.
The joint sitting for the Opening of Parliament Address will be at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in light of the ongoing construction.
The CTICC has been chosen for its capacity, convenience and proximity to the Parliament precinct.
Programme of the new Parliament
Once all the structures of the two Houses are established, the Joint Programming Committee will convene to deliberate on the parliamentary programme.
“The Joint Programming Committee plays a vital role in laying the groundwork for a productive legislative session as it is responsible for drawing up a programme for the first term of the new Parliament. The programme outlines the schedule and priorities for parliamentary activities, ensuring a structured and efficient approach to legislative and oversight responsibilities,” Parliament said.
Orientation programme for MPs
The newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) will also undergo a structured orientation programme from 2 July to 5 July to induct them into their new roles.
The programme will cover a wide range of topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, an overview of MPs’ ethics and disclosures, the Rules guiding the operations of each House, and those that guide Joint Sittings.
“Following the success of the first sittings of the two Houses, the seventh parliamentary administration is ready to take the reins and ensure that Parliament fulfils its constitutional mandate of oversight over the executive and providing a platform for the voice of South Africans in government policy and implementation,” Parliament said.
Meetings and activities scheduled for this week are as follows:
- On Wednesday, both Houses will hold their respective Rules Committee meetings. The NCOP Rules Committee meeting will start at 10:00, and the NA Rules Committee meeting is scheduled for 15:00.
- On Thursday at 14:00, the NCOP will convene a hybrid plenary to elect various office bearers for the seventh Parliament, including the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, the Rotating Deputy Chairperson, the Programming Whip, the House Chairperson for Committees and Oversight, the House Chairperson for Parliamentary Diplomacy, the House Chairperson for Internal Arrangements and Members Support, and several other critical positions.
- During the same session, the Council will also hold elections for the NCOP Permanent Delegates (MPs) to the Pan-African Parliament. Additionally, they will designate members to serve in the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, the Judicial Services Commission, the Magistrates Commission, and the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund Trustee. The Council will also consider and deliberate on the revival of the Appropriations Bill.
- On the same day the Council will convene in the morning and hold the Programming Committee at 08:30. The Programming Committee considers Bills before the House, committee reports and plans the business of the House and the programme. On Friday, the NA at 10:00 will hold its programming meeting.
- The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) will convene its first of the two annual Plenary Sessions from 24 June to 5 July 2024 at the PAP precinct in Midrand. Among the critical items for discussion and consideration is the budget for the PAP to enable the institution to function optimally.
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 06/24/2024 - 10:02
360 views
Treasury issues MTEF technical guidelines
Treasury issues MTEF technical guidelines
National Treasury (NT) has issued the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) Technical Guidelines for 2025.
The guidelines are issued to assist departments at both national government and other state institutions to prepare medium term estimates for 2025 budget.
National Treasury said the 2024 Budget sought to balance stabilising “public finances and reduce fiscal and economic risks while promoting economic growth and supporting vulnerable members of society”.
“The 2025 Budget will see a debt-stabilising primary surplus achieved in 2025/26, a reduction in the fiscal deficit to pre-COVID-19 levels, and a stabilisation of debt-service costs as a percentage of revenue. A lower debt burden allows the government to redirect resources to important social expenditure and will lower borrowing costs for households and businesses.
“Resources will be available only within the parameters required to meet the objectives of the medium-term fiscal strategy as outlined in the 2024 Budget Review. In this regard, should the economic outlook remain the same, no additions will be made to the overall envelope. In instances where spending may be accommodated by unforeseen or higher-than-expected revenues, permanent increases to spending will be avoided,” Treasury said in a statement.
It added that spending institutions and government department pressures must be “funded from current baselines and programmes that have not delivered their expected outcomes, or through reprioritisation, either within the department’s or public entity’s budget, or from other departments’ or public entities’ budgets”.
The department added that government was seized with enhancing “fiscal credibility and ensure continued transparency and accountability in the management of public finances”.
“The National Treasury has recognised the need for a comprehensive review of the budget process with the objective to identify and implement reforms that will enhance the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the budget process.
“These guidelines are issued while the review is at its initial stages, and it is anticipated that implementation will begin in the 2026 MTEF,” Treasury said.
The department emphasised that while the new administration “bring its own perspectives and policies”, in the meanwhile, “it is crucial to maintain the current fiscal strategy, which aims to stabilise public finances, and ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth”.
“The current fiscal strategy includes a reconfiguration of the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) to further expand the pipeline of projects and to test alternative financing and funding models separate from the normal budget process.
“The intention is to use government’s resources more efficiently to leverage financing from the private sector, as well as development and international finance institutions. In this way, limited public resources can catalyse more funding, capacity and capability to fast-track infrastructure provision and improve its effectiveness,” Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Sun, 06/23/2024 - 15:54
13 views
Controversial auditing firm appointed by Gauteng Department of Social Development
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Investing in public transport to enhance accessibility
Investing in public transport to enhance accessibility
Government has invested a cumulative total of R69 billion in public transport, which was spent towards infrastructure and operations in an effort to enhance accessibility to public transport and mobility.
Addressing a media briefing on the state of the transport sector, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, said a total of R55 billion was spent in 13 cities between 2006 and 2024.
This has translated into 131 stations; 253 kilometres of dedicated and bidirectional trunk routes; 302km of mixed traffic by-directional trunk routes, as well as 260km of two-way cycling, pedestrian, and non-motorised transport facilities.
In addition, 2 628 bus stops were built; 11 depots were constructed; 44 million passengers were carried per annum as of 2023/24. Integrated Public Transport Networks (IPTNs) are operating at 14 – 20 operational hours daily, with approximately 1 020 vehicles.
Eight cities are implementing initial phases and planning expansions to other areas that include Cape Town, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, George, Polokwane, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Rustenburg.
“It must also be noted that 14 Vehicle Operating Companies have been established and contracted by municipalities to provide public transport services in IPTNs.
“The most important benefit has been the formalisation of informal taxi operators and their economic empowerment in the IPTN. The majority of these Vehicle Operating Centres are run by taxi operators," Chikunga said on Monday in Centurion.
Taxi industry
Government has continued to implement taxi industry reforms to improve the industry.
“To date, from a target of 135 894 old taxi vehicles to be scrapped, a total of 83 713 taxis have been scrapped and about R5.9 billion has been paid out to operators through the Taxi Recapitalisation Programme (TRP),” Chikunga said.
Moreover, the Department of Transport has committed to the various commercial projects for the taxi industry, which include the Taxi Broad-Based Ownership Structure, where the taxi industry owns 60% of the taxi scrapping entity, with 40% owned by a technical partner.
A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed between the parties.
Chikunga said the signing into law of the Economic Regulation of Transport Bill by the President will see the consolidation of the economic regulation of transport into a unified framework and policy.
“It aims to primarily promote the development of a competitive, efficient, and viable South African transport industry, contributing to economic growth and development.
“It will also promote the development of an integrated system of economic regulation for the transportation of passengers and goods through airports or ports and by road or rail; as well as promote efficiency, reliability, safety and performance in the management and operation of transport facilities and services, in accordance with recognised international standards and public demand,” she said.
The bill also seeks to establish appropriate institutional arrangements and procedures, which will support the consistent economic regulation of transport facilities and services.
It will also enhance transparency in the management of transport facilities and services.
Last year, the Department of Transport tabled at Cabinet the Draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy.
“The basic principles of the public transport subsidy are to have a subsidy that is user-targeted, equitable and sustainable in the medium to long term. We have, irrespective of our challenges and constraints, managed to realise major milestones in the area of public transport, almost as much as we have progressed with improvements in the implementation of other mandates, and these have positively affected the lives of ordinary South Africans,” the Minister said.
Learner transport
Chikunga said the National Learner Transport Programme remains an important avenue towards easing mobility for learners, the provision of safe transport to educational centres, improved school attendance and academic performance.
“We have been able to implement that in 4 204 schools nationally. This programme is fully funded and provides a free service to learners with a budget allocation of R4.7 billion.
“The 2001 National Bicycle Programme, known as Shova Kalula, adds an important facility for the mobility of learners who do not fit the criteria for scholar transport. To date, 122 307 bicycles were distributed to learners as part of the National Learner Transport Policy,” Chikunga said.
Under the sixth administration, the Department of Transport distributed 32 307 bicycles nationally in all provinces, targeting underprivileged and rural learners. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 06/18/2024 - 14:41
48 views
Navigating Digital Change And Budgeting For It Success
SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, examines critical aspects of digital transformation, IT security, and how to budget for IT success effectively. “Digital transformation is the process of integrating digital technology into all aspects of your …
The Future of Gumtree SA is Local
June 2024 , Cape Town, South Africa -Since late 2022, Gumtree SA has been entirely SA-owned for the first time. “Becoming locally-owned, hosted and controlled has been a significant strategic boost for Gumtree South Africa (SA)”, says Marcus Badach, Chief of Staff at Gumtree South Africa. “This localisation and the resultant agility have made a …