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Basic Education Committee Delegation Visits Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) Schools for Readiness Inspection

Location: News

Department of Basic Education: Republic of South Africa
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A delegation of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education undertook a two-day oversight visit to schools in Kwa-Zulu Natal to assess their readiness for the 2024 academic year. The delegation visited five schools in the uThukela and uMzinyathi education districts over this period and engaged with several stakeholders in the education sector.

The leader of the delegation, Ms Nombuyiselo Adoons, said the delegation focused on areas that included infrastructure, ablution facilities, monitoring of Grade R/early childhood development sites as per the 2022 departmental migration shift; delivery of learner-teacher support material; nutrition, learner transport, special schools support, and meeting with stakeholders to discuss the state of schooling in 2024.

Ms Adoons said several schools that the delegation visited had been damaged by floods and strong winds and they are in need of repairs. She said the temporary measures have been put in place to alleviate the immediate challenges they are facing. “We must commend the provincial department for the speedy action in assisting the schools. However, we realised that this will now impact further on the budget – most probably that of infrastructure and repairs that were planned,” she said.

The delegation commended Muntuza Primary School for its excellent performance. It is a full service school with Grade R facilities and have been piloted for Robotics and Coding. “The school is doing well. The school is clean. It is one of the models that other schools can learn from,” said Ms Adoons.

At Njeza High School the delegation found that the roof of some buildings had been blown off by storms. “It was not in a good shape but mobile classrooms are in place to alleviate the situation. We are grateful for this as it means teaching and learning is not affected.” She said the delegation further noted some pit toilets. However, a contractor was on site and in the process of eradicating the “inappropriate ablution” facilities.

Ngibongeleni High School and Sihayo Technical Comprehensive School have challenges with fluctuating Grade 12 results. “It's like a yo-yo effect. We recommended intervention to assist the schools and it clearly has the potential to improve.”

The delegation also visited Pro Nobis Special School that cater mostly for learners on the autism spectrum. It noted that the school has adequate infrastructure even though it needs some refurbishment or upgrades. The provincial department indicated that new scholar transport will reach the school by the end of February as it is being fitted for the specifications for learners with special needs.

According to her common challenges they noted at many schools they visited were high electricity and water bills, vandalism and burglaries due to lack of security. “Firstly, we would like to appeal to the communities to assist with this. This impacts your children's education and future. Security manpower means extra expenses that could have gone towards the education of our learners. Let's stand together and stand up against criminality in our schools,” stressed Ms Adoons.

The oversight visit was concluded with a meeting with stakeholders, including the MEC for education in the province. Ms Adoons said: “All our concerns over the two days were noted and responded to. The provincial department of basic education indicated that it has been impacted by budget cuts from National Treasury.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Basic Education: Republic of South Africa.

Read moreBasic Education Committee Delegation Visits Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) Schools for Readiness Inspection

Unchanged repo rate suggests greater stability says Tyson Properties CEO

Location: MyPR

Tyson Properties founder and CEO, Chris Tyson, has welcomed this week’s announcement by the South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee that the repo rate will remain unchanged at 8.25%. Although the repo rate remains at a 14-year-high dating back to May 2023, Tyson is optimistic that this signals a period of greater stability for …

Read moreUnchanged repo rate suggests greater stability says Tyson Properties CEO

Department awards bursaries to hardworking matriculants

Location: News

Department awards bursaries to hardworking matriculants

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has hailed teachers and guardians as true heroes and heroines and thanked them for encouraging, motivating and guiding learners during the 2023 matric examination.

“To the bursary awardees, you are the crown in the jewel; and today we sing your praises for demonstrating that paying attention and putting in effort pays,” Zikalala said on Thursday, during a ceremony to award bursaries to 100 learners from the Class of 2023 who have enrolled to study various built environment courses at universities across the country.

Zikalala congratulated the learners for being worthy recipients of the prestigious bursaries from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

He said the young people who are receiving the bursaries have honoured the sacrifices of the youth of 1976 who protested against an inferior Bantu Education that sought to turn education for the black majority into an instrument of racial subjugation and guarantor for the supply of cheap black labour.

“The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) plays a critical role in delivering essential services. To do so effectively, it must have a highly skilled and competent workforce.

“This year is the 10th year that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has been offering these bursaries to address the challenges of the skills pipeline and transformation in the Built Environment.

“Our university bursary scheme is one of the ways through which as a department, we respond to the country’s occupation skills that are in high demand as gazetted by the Department of Higher Education and Training,” the Minister said.

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary Scheme supports undergraduate study areas like: Construction Project Management, Occupational Health and Safety, Quantity Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Property Studies, Real Estate, Urban Design and Regional Planning, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, Chemical), Interior Design, Actuarial Science, Horticulture, Geographic Information Science (GISc) and Maritime Studies.

The Council for the Built Environment (CBE) has lamented the slow pace of transformation in the built environment which is compounded by the challenge of aging professionals who are leaving the sector.

“One of our programmes to address these challenges and in contributing to the skills of the future in our sector is the department’s schools programme and the university bursary scheme programme.

“We are pleased to report that our valued bursary beneficiaries are supported financially throughout their tertiary studies until graduation.

“Upon completion of studies, bursary holders join the department’s internship programme wherein they gain relevant technical experience for a duration of 24 months in line with their contractual obligation to the department and in accordance to the DPSA regulated internship period,” Zikalala said.

The estimated budget per student is R177 500. This amount varies based on the institution and study programme. The department has allocated budget of R17 800 000 for the 2024 academic year new intake.     

The bursary covers all university costs including tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks, projects, excursions and a monthly allowance. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 01/26/2024 - 09:43

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Read moreDepartment awards bursaries to hardworking matriculants

Call for balance in investments for road and rail infrastructure

Location: News

Call for balance in investments for road and rail infrastructure

With South Africa deepening its efforts towards shifting freight from road to rail, the Department of Transport (DOT) Freight Logistics Specialist, Mihlali Gqada, says there needs to be a balance in investments that are made in rail and road infrastructure.

Addressing the colloquium on the Freight Road to Rail Migration Plan (FRRMP), Gqada said the amount of rail infrastructure investment pales in comparison to road.

According to National Treasury and the Minister of Transport’s Budget Vote Speech (2023/24), the allocation for roads (transfers and subsidies) is R42.4 billion, and for 2024/25, the estimate is R42.4 billion. This figure excludes the equitable share grant that provinces and municipalities get for infrastructure development.

“Rail infrastructure investment is limited to the allocation for the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) from the DOT (+/-R7 billion), whilst freight rail relies on Transnet investment and competes with Ports and Pipelines. It is therefore imperative that a balance in investment be fostered so that the shift can be realised.

“Historically, public sector investment has largely been skewed towards road infrastructure investments, and going forward, there is a need to leverage a wide range of public and private investment tools to finance the construction and operation of rail freight infrastructure.

“The national freight transportation system requires investment to maintain performance at high levels, upon which the country's economic growth depends,” Gqada said on Thursday in Pretoria.

She said private sector and private investments must find expression in the railway sector.

“These investments must be in the form of infrastructure and operations as Transnet would not be in a position to meet all the investment required to get the railways competitive and responsive to the country's growth needs and demand.

“Historically the public and private sectors have collaborated clearly, and both played divided roles in relation to freight transport whereby the public sector has built, owned, and operated transport infrastructure on behalf of government, predominantly railways and highways. Furthermore, the private sector has used that infrastructure to conduct freight operations.

“This division of roles provides opportunities for government to leverage private sector efficiencies and expertise in the construction and operation of freight infrastructure,” Gqada said.

She said South Africa holds immense potential to become the gateway to the African market, boasting a well-developed network of ports and a robust logistics infrastructure.

“The country's transportation system offers several advantages compared to other African nations. Despite its potential, South Africa's freight transport system faces significant challenges in meeting the growing demand for freight movement, especially on rail. These challenges stem from operational and infrastructure deficiencies in the road, rail and port sectors, which hinder the competitiveness of the South African economy,” Gqada said.

She said poor rail performance has rendered the country unable to fully participate in the recent commodity boom.

As the country tries to deal with the lack of investment in rail, Gqada said it must not stop investment in road infrastructure, as this is currently the backbone of South Africa's trade success.

“We, however, need to be cautious of the role that the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) is being given by several provinces to manage their road network as this may overburden SANRAL.

“This gradual migration of provincial networks onto the portfolio of SANRAL must be managed very well and must not undermine the effectiveness of SANRAL in infrastructure development and maintenance,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za 

nosihle
Thu, 01/25/2024 - 13:30

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Read moreCall for balance in investments for road and rail infrastructure

Have your say on National Budget

Location: News

Have your say on National Budget

Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called on South Africans to share their suggestions on the National Budget.

The Minister will deliver the National Budget Speech in February 2024.

People may submit their views on municipal finances, spending priorities of government, addressing a large budget deficit, stabilising state-owned entity finances, managing the energy crisis, tax revenues and debt sustainability.

The closing date for submissions is 11 February 2024.

“The budget allocation aims to strike a balance between growing the economy and supporting the vulnerable amid limited resources. It is in this context that Minister Godongwana invites South Africans to share their suggestions on the Budget. Minister Godongwana looks forward to your contributions,” the Ministry of Finance said on Monday.

Contributions can be sent through via the National Treasury website here: https://bit.ly/3ruszsi.

Citizens are encouraged to keep contributions concise and to the point.

The Ministry of Finance has urged those on social media to tag them on its social media accounts using the hashtag #TipsForMinFin and #Budget2024:

  • X - Treasury_RSA
  • LinkedIn - National Treasury RSA
  • TikTok - @TreasuryRSA
  • facebook - National Treasury RSA

- SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Tue, 01/23/2024 - 09:29

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Read moreHave your say on National Budget

Navigating the Labyrinth: A Guide to South African Online Business Directories

Location: MyPR

Box with Heavyweights Dance with Stars Bedazzled with Choices In the age of digital dominance, online visibility is the oxygen for any South African business. But with a plethora of online business directories buzzing in the ecosystem, finding the right platform to amplify your brand’s voice can be a daunting task. This article unravels the …

Read moreNavigating the Labyrinth: A Guide to South African Online Business Directories

Strengthening Macro-fiscal and Budgeting Functions in Southern Africa

Location: News

International Monetary Fund (IMF)
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Being a budget director, or the head of a macro-fiscal unit (MFU) of a ministry of finance, is a demanding job. So, it was an impressive combination of logistical ingenuity and good timing that brought together heads of budget and macro-fiscal functions from 11 Southern African countries for a regional workshop on ‘Strengthening the macro-fiscal function in ministries of finance'. The event was organized by the IMF's Regional Technical Assistance Center for Southern Africa (AFRITAC South). The countries participating were Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The objective of the workshop was to equip these senior officials with strategies for effectively managing macro-fiscal functions and integrating these strategies with the budgeting process. It aimed to build networks, share experiences, and identify good practices. Topics discussed included macro-fiscal forecasting and analysis, medium-term fiscal frameworks (MTFFs), efficient organizational arrangements that improve decision-making within finance ministries, nurturing effective working relationships with other stakeholders, and building teams of motivated and capable technical staff.

Whilst each of the 11 countries faces its own unique set of challenges, some common themes emerged:

  • The need to strengthen the analysis and publication of information on fiscal risks.
  • Countries' fiscal objectives are often considered either ineffective, unclear, or entirely missing.
  • Several of the countries are seeking to improve the quality of their MTFFs and, generally, introduce a more strategic approach to fiscal policy-making and annual budgeting.
  • Coordination within the finance ministry and with other ministries (including a planning ministry in some cases) is often difficult.
  • Staff training and high turnover rates are frequently a cause of concern.
  • Whilst many countries can generate good quality policy analysis and advice, communicating that advice to politicians and top management and influencing decisions can be a challenge.

On staff training, the most cited skills gaps relate to problem solving, quantitative analysis and report writing. A few participants shared positive experiences about partnering with local universities to help build skills, making use of free online training for staff and promoting staff development programs as a non-monetary incentive to retain them. The use of training needs questionnaires and staff training plans was also encouraged. Many countries included the need for more formalized staff training plans and including managerial and soft skills development in those plans. 

High levels of staff turnover are a concern for many countries. Coping mechanisms include documenting processes and encouraging ‘twinning' arrangements to minimize situations where only one staff member understands a model or technical process that underlies macroeconomic forecasting and fiscal analysis. Specific induction training and mentoring processes can be useful. An alternative to writing lengthy user manuals (for which there is rarely the time) is to ask staff to record “how to” videos that describe how a forecasting model or other technical process works. These videos can be stored on a private YouTube channel for new staff to watch.

To help improve macro-fiscal and budgeting functions, participants prepared plausible action plans and presented them on the final day of the workshop. Suggestions included:

  • Establishing long-term fiscal frameworks to assess fiscal sustainability based on demographic changes.
  • Introducing clearly defined and monitorable fiscal objectives and targets.
  • Institutionalizing work on fiscal risks and scenario analysis.
  • Using analytical tools to promote evidence-based macro-fiscal policy decision making.
  • Creating Macro Working Groups to improve coordination and information sharing for preparing macro-fiscal forecasts.

Participants committed to maintaining the network with counterparts to continuously exchange knowledge and the sharing of experiences.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Read moreStrengthening Macro-fiscal and Budgeting Functions in Southern Africa

Minister Senzo Mchunu calls on water sector to prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to public

Location: News

Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa
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Minister Mchunu calls on the water sector to set aside egos and prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to the public

In a bid to improve performance of the water sector and its services to the public, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has called for the sector to suspend its ego and prioritise professionalism.

The Minister made these remarks during the two-day Water Services Authorities Summit held on Thursday 18 and Friday 19, January 2024 at the Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, Gauteng.

The purpose of the summit was to review the progress assessment reports, find the underlying reasons for poor and good performance, and collectively develop a plan to reverse the decline in performance.

Attending the summit were Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Thembi Nkadimeng, Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, as well as provincial and local government representatives including Mayors, MMCs, Municipal Managers and technical officials of the 144 Water Services Authorities across the country. Also, in attendance and participation were representatives from various institutions including the water boards, the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), National and Provincial Treasury, professional bodies, training organisations, whose wide range of support relate to funding, capacity building, professionalisation, engineering, financial management and governance. These institutions were critical elements in the process of developing and implementing improvement plans for the WSAs.

Setting the scene, Minister Mchunu gave an overview of the state of water in the country according to the previous Blue, Green, and No Drop reports released in December 2023.

He further highlighted that the Drop certifications were initially introduced 16 years ago in 2008, with annual reports being released from 2009 until 2014. These reports served as an effective regulatory mechanism, evaluating water and sanitation services, incentivising municipalities to improve their performance, and guiding areas for enhancement.

In recent years, the water sector in South Africa has faced numerous challenges, with reports showing a decline in the quality of drinking water and wastewater, as well as an increase in potable water losses. These issues have caused great concern among the public, particularly regarding the growing percentage of drinking water systems failing to meet both national and international compliance standards as revealed by these assessments. 

“We have resuscitated the assessments and are committed to preventing similar mistakes in the future,” Minister Mchunu said.

Minister Mchunu's call for the water sector to suspend its ego stems from the need to prioritise professionalism and service delivery to the public to address the decline in performance.

The Minister emphasised that the non-provision of clean drinking water and a clean environment goes against people's basic human rights, as outlined in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution. It is therefore imperative that the water sector takes immediate action to address these challenges.

Following extensive discussions, several recommendations were put forward to improve the water sector and enhance water and sanitation services for the public. Notably, it was agreed that Water Service Authorities should make fundamental changes in the manner that they deliver water and sanitation services. This by either considering establishing their own entities or creating special-purpose vehicles as water service providers. This would allow for greater accountability and efficiency in the provision of water and sanitation services.

Municipalities have been categorised into four groups based on their Drop scores during discussions on how to improve.

The first group comprised 67 municipalities that have an average 'critical' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 and 2022 full Green Drop. The second group consisted of 38 municipalities that had an average 'poor' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 and 2022 full Green Drop. The third group includes 27 municipalities that have an average 'average' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 full Blue Drop and 2022 full Green Drop. Lastly, the fourth group comprised 12 municipalities that have an average 'good' or 'excellent' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 full Blue Drop and 2022 full Green Drop.

The 105 municipalities who are in the critical, poor and average categories were urged to utilise consider appointing reputable, credible, and competent water service providers for the next two to three years. This move would help address the current gaps in service delivery and ensure that communities have access to clean and reliable water sources. This could be in a form of another municipality that performed well in their assessments scores in all reports, a water board or a competent private water services provider.

Another important area of focus is the review of implementing agents, with an emphasis on capacity building. The Directors- General of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), COGTA, South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and the provincial and Local Government will collaborate to strengthen the capacity of implementing agents, the water sector will be better equipped to deliver on its mandate and meet the needs of the public.

Deputy Minister Mahlobo, who was also speaking at the summit, announced recommendations and a way forward on finance, security, and corruption.

One of the major recommendations made was the strengthening of the budget for water and sanitation services. This will include relooking at budget allocation to ensure that more funds are allocated towards provision of these services of the public.

Deputy Minister Mahlobo emphasised the importance of infrastructure security in ensuring uninterrupted water services. He urged all municipalities to develop and execute reliable infrastructure security plans, which should include the use of technology such as remote fencing and a rapid response system to combat theft and vandalism of infrastructure. These measures will not only protect the vital water infrastructure but also ensure a reliable supply of water to the public.

The Deputy Minister also announced the formation of a multi-disciplinary security cluster consisting of Ministers and Mayors. This cluster will be responsible for leading intelligence operations and prosecutions against elements that hinder service delivery such as vandals, mafia as well as saboteurs of water infrastructure. The team will also be tasked with screening technical division officials for lifestyle, integrity, morality, and community involvement, thereby ensuring that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of providing water services.

In his closing remarks, Minister Mchunu said the provision of reliable quality drinking water to citizens must be treated with priority and necessary urgency. The decline in water quality and increase in water losses were pressing issues that demanded immediate attention. By implementing the recommendations put forward, such as the establishment of dedicated entities or special purpose vehicles, and the appointment of reputable service providers, the water sector can make significant strides towards meeting the needs and rights of the public. Though the challenges are great, with a unified effort and a commitment to collaboration, a positive change is indeed possible.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

Read moreMinister Senzo Mchunu calls on water sector to prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to public

Cradock: Prepaid Water Meter Suppliers

Location: MyPR

Living in a beautiful town like Cradock comes with its own set of joys and challenges. While the Eastern Cape town boasts stunning scenery and a rich historical tapestry, managing water usage, especially with unpredictable rainfall patterns, can be a concern. That’s where prepaid water meters come in, empowering residents to take control of their …

Read moreCradock: Prepaid Water Meter Suppliers

4 000 families to receive houses in the Northern Cape

Location: News

4 000 families to receive houses in the Northern Cape

Government is set to build over 4 000 houses in municipalities across the Northern Cape over the course of the next 12 to 18 months, in a programme valued at R1 billion.

“Through this project, thousands of families will now have a home they can call their own, an asset that can be used to improve their lives and access financing for their needs, and a home that can be passed on to future generations,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

Addressing the launch in Kimberley, President Ramaphosa described the mega-housing project as the biggest in the history of the Northern Cape.

“This project is going to help reduce the housing backlog in the Northern Cape, as more people have access to housing in urban and rural areas. The most vulnerable in our society will be prioritised as beneficiaries of this mega-housing project.

“We will strive to ensure that the elderly, child-headed households, military veterans and persons with disabilities get priority in the allocation of these houses. What is significant about this project is that it will also address the housing needs of the so-called ‘missing middle’, people who have a form of income but do not qualify for either subsidised housing or home loans with commercial banks,” President Ramaphosa said.

The project will also be allocating funds to eradicate informal settlements and unsuitable housing structures like mud homes.

“This project is going to create work and business opportunities in the Northern Cape across its lifespan. These opportunities will be in the construction itself, in the sourcing and production of building materials, in the laying down of bulk infrastructure, in the supply of professional services and other economic activities associated with the project.

“We will be prioritising women and youth-owned businesses. We are determined that it will be Northern Cape residents and Northern Cape businesses that will benefit from the opportunities that will be created,” the President said.

He assured residents that the province has put measures in place to ensure these housing projects are delivered within the projected timeframes, according to budget and without any wastage or corruption.

“We know that right here in Roodepan and in other parts of the municipality there are social housing structures that were not built according to quality standards, or are facing challenges with wastewater drainage and groundwater seepage.

“This will not be allowed to happen again. We are going to ensure that the contractors appointed to this project observe the highest construction standards,” the President said.

He said the launch of the project is a further demonstration that government is making good on its commitment to fulfil the human rights of all South Africans.

“Providing houses for the poor and vulnerable who are dependent on government support requires innovative funding mechanisms. We have to mobilise resources in partnership with financial institutions, especially development finance institutions.

“By leveraging the Human Settlements Development Grant, the Northern Cape has secured funding through a loan facility of National Treasury and the Development Bank of Southern Africa to build these top structures and housing units.

“This loan will further be augmented by funding from the fiscus and the provincial government to achieve the total project value. This will significantly shorten the time it takes to build these houses,” the President said.

Thirty years of democracy

Despite the current challenges in the country, the President said government has made progress in expanding access to housing since the advent of democracy.

“This year, we celebrate 30 years since achieving our democracy. Last year, Statistics South Africa released the results of Census 2022, which give an indication of the strides we have made in improving the lives of the South African people.

“When the census was conducted in 2022, nearly 9 out of every 10 households were living in formal dwellings. When the first census in a democratic South Africa was held in 1996, only 6 out of every 10 households lived in a formal dwelling.

“In South Africa today, 8 out of every 10 households have access to piped water either inside their home or in the yard. These are achievements we must celebrate,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said over 4.7 million housing opportunities have been provided since the advent of democracy.

This includes stand-alone houses, multiple storey and multi-unit buildings and serviced stands.

“Security of tenure has been granted to the many households who live in pre-1994 government rental houses. We have given subsidies and transferred title deeds to approximately 376 000 qualifying beneficiaries of these homes.

“We have been working to eradicate spatial inequality by building socially and economically sustainable human settlements close to places of work, study and recreation,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/18/2024 - 13:17

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Read more4 000 families to receive houses in the Northern Cape

Nutrition on the go: Quick and affordable lunchbox ideas for kids

Location: MyPR

Another school year is here, which means that parents and caregivers will be wrestling again with the age-old dilemma of what to pack in their kids’ lunchboxes. Finding the balance between healthy lunchbox items that kids enjoy and that don’t break the bank is an ongoing challenge for many. Luckily, Mbali Mapholi, Laager Tea4Kidz partner …

Read moreNutrition on the go: Quick and affordable lunchbox ideas for kids

Structural reforms remain key for SA economy

Location: News

Structural reforms remain key for SA economy

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to engaging in structural reforms that will foster an environment fertile to economic growth and competitiveness.

The Minister was speaking during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting held in Davos, Switzerland.

Godongwana is leading the South African delegation to the critical meeting.

Structural reforms in South Africa are targeted at – among other things – electricity, infrastructure, water and logistics, and are driven by Operation Vulindlela.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery. It aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications.

The objectives of the reforms are aimed at:

  • Stabilising the electricity supply.
  • Reducing the cost and increasing the quality of digital communications.
  • Providing sustainable water supply to meet demand.
  • Providing competitive and efficient freight transport.
  • Fostering a visa regime that attracts skills and grows tourism.

“There are a number of things we are doing to deal with structural reforms. One of the perennial problems we’ve had has been on the energy front. Massive structural reforms… are dealing with that question.

“A new challenge has been the logistics sector, where we are investing a lot in it. We have been trying to change the skills composition to the extent that we don’t have and we have provided an environment where we can import skills with ease.

“So there are lot of structural reforms that we have engaged in in order to make sure that we can grow the economy and be competitive,” Godongwana told the panel.

Historical commitment

During the pre-WEF media breakfast briefing held last week, Godongwana emphasised that structural reforms remain crucial.

“Structural reforms remain crucial to revive medium-term growth prospects amid a constrained policy space. We remain steadfast in carrying out structural reforms to support and accelerate economic recovery.

“As government, we remain resolved to deal with the energy and logistics challenges that are adversely impacting our economy,” he said.

In his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement delivered in November last year, Godongwana presented the reforms specifically targeted at Eskom and Transnet.

On Transnet, he said: “Rail underperformance is estimated to have cost up to 5% of GDP in 2022, with losses in the region of R50 billion in the minerals sector alone.

“Given the scale of the challenges, the National Logistics Crisis Committee was instituted to broaden reforms in the sector and prioritise reforms aimed at resolving the immediate crisis, while also addressing the structural aspects hampering the sector.”

On electricity, Godongwana said: “[We] recognise the potential loss of revenue due to private electricity generation, and the fact that traditional revenue models relied on by public entities like Eskom, face serious disruption.

“It is for these reasons that our electricity reforms are holistic, evidenced-based, and geared to find a balanced solution to our electricity supply challenges. They take into account not just a particular entity but the transformation of the sector as a whole.” – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 01/16/2024 - 12:18

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Read moreStructural reforms remain key for SA economy

The Outsourced CFO’s Impact on Business Planning

Location: MyPR

Small business management can feel like a balancing act. From daily operations to bottom-line concerns, it can get intense. This is where business advisory services come in handy. They offer strategic solutions like CFO outsourcing or financial planning services that can enhance your business planning. Solving Financial Issues Small businesses often need help with their …

Read moreThe Outsourced CFO’s Impact on Business Planning

How to Boost Your Retail Business in 2024: The Benefits of Attending the Digital Retail Africa Conference

Location: Business

IT News Africa
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The retail industry is undergoing a massive transformation, driven by the internet, customer expectations, and emerging technologies. Retailers need to adapt and innovate to survive and thrive in this new era of digital retail.

If you are a senior IT executive in a major retail company, or a technology service provider who has solutions for retailers, you don't want to miss Digital Retail Africa 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/48O9MMq), the ultimate event for retail and technology innovation in Africa.

Digital Retail Africa 2024, hosted by IT News Africa (https://www.ITNewsAfrica.com/), will take place on 31 January 2024 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The conference will bring together hundreds of local and international retail industry leaders, service providers, and experts to share insights, best practices, and case studies on how to leverage technology to improve retail performance and customer experience.

The conference will cover a wide range of topics, such as:

  • E-commerce and omnichannel retailing
  • Mobile payments and digital wallets
  • Data analytics and artificial intelligence
  • Customer journey and loyalty
  • Cybersecurity and fraud prevention
  • Future trends and opportunities in retail

You will also have the opportunity to network with peers, partners, and potential customers, and to discover the latest products and services from leading technology vendors and startups in the exhibition area.

Some of the speakers and topics that you can expect to hear from are:

  • Koen den Hollander, Co-founder of Wolfpack, on how to create a seamless omnichannel retail platform
  • Matthew Bernath, Head of Data Ecosystems at ShopriteX, on how to use data to drive retail innovation and personalization
  • Ansgar Pabst, HOD of GMD Omnichannel at Pick n Pay, on how to optimize inventory and supply chain management
  • Munyaradzi Nyikavaranda, Group Executive Head of Digital Analytics and Marketing Technology at MultiChoice Group, on how to leverage digital marketing and analytics to increase customer acquisition and retention
  • Nenzeni Duma, Innovation Executive at FNB South Africa, on how to integrate mobile payments and digital wallets into retail transactions
  • Fionna Ronnie, Head of Customer and Loyalty at TFG (The Foschini Group), on how to build customer loyalty and engagement through rewards and gamification

And many more (https://apo-opa.co/3O344OT)!

Don't miss this chance to learn from the best, network with the brightest, and discover the latest in retail and technology innovation in Africa.

Register now and secure your seat at Digital Retail Africa 2024. Book now (https://apo-opa.co/3Sk9CXC) before tickets run out.

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Borrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

Location: News

Borrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

January can be a difficult month, especially for those who did not budget and/or spend wisely over the festive season. 

According to the National Credit Regulator (NCR), many people are paid earlier in December and they wait long until the next payday in January. 

“This long wait leads to very empty pockets and many unpaid bills, as these consumers start the year on a tough note. Consequently, many are being forced into taking excessive credit as the only option to pay for necessities like rent or mortgage, food, school fees, stationery and so on,” the regulator said. 

The NCR’s Education and Communications Manager, Poppy Kweyama, said in addition to the high cost of living, consumers might need to borrow excessively at this time of the year because of poor budgeting and last year’s reckless spending.

Citing the NCR’s statistics for the quarter ended September 2023, Kweyama said there has been an increase quarter-on-quarter of impaired accounts. 

To avoid an impaired credit record, consumers are advised to borrow wisely and responsibly and restrict credit to only what is necessary. 

She added that during this time of the year, some consumers are desperate for financial assistance and may take out loans recklessly, even from unscrupulous credit providers. 

The NCR has implored consumers who find themselves in this situation to be credit-smart and avoid resorting to unregistered credit providers. 

She advised consumers to borrow only from registered credit providers and only as much as they need and only when they need to. 

According to the expert, it is also crucial to plan how to repay the loans, and most importantly determine whether they can afford the repayments. 

The NCR also encourages consumers to understand their credit agreements and the terms and conditions (Ts and Cs) before signing. 

“Don’t sign if you don’t understand the Ts and Cs. Always ask for clarity and never pay an upfront fee. 

“Never leave your ID or bank card with a credit provider in exchange for a loan. Not only is this practice illegal, but remember, to register and exercise your vote in the 2024 elections, you need to have your ID,” Kweyama cautioned. 

Credit is expensive, said the NCR, and it advised people to familiarise themselves with the fees associated with the credit. 

According to the National Credit Act (NCA), consumers can only be charged the following fees when taking up credit:

 • Initiation fees – This is a fee that a credit provider charges a consumer for entering into a credit agreement. The credit provider must give the consumer an option of paying this fee separately and once off. In doing so, no interest may be charged on the fee. Initiation fees are regulated by the NCA. Standard initiation fees for credit facilities, short term credit transactions and unsecured credit transactions, per the NCA, is R165 per credit agreement plus 10% of the amount over R1 000 but the maximum initiation fee should not exceed R1 050.

• Interest rate – Interest is the amount that a credit provider charges a consumer on the outstanding balance of a credit agreement and is regulated by the NCA.

• Service fees – The fee that a credit provider charges for servicing and administering or maintaining the credit agreement. The credit provider can charge this fee monthly. Service fees can also be charged per transaction. The maximum monthly service fee under Section 105 of the NCA is R60.

• Credit Life Insurance – This is insurance which can be required by the credit provider when a consumer applies for credit. The insurance covers the debt due to the credit provider in certain cases such as retrenchment, disability or even death of the consumer. The insurance cover taken may not exceed the outstanding obligation to the credit provider.

• Other costs will depend on what you are purchasing as the consumer such as delivery costs. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 09:39

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Read moreBorrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

NSFAS committed to settling outstanding disbursements

Location: News

NSFAS committed to settling outstanding disbursements

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it is determined to conclude all outstanding 2023 disbursements by 15 January 2024, in consultation with the affected institutions.

The NSFAS Board held an extraordinary meeting on Sunday, 31 December 2023 to consider reports from NSFAS management on various issues including the final disbursement of the 2023 allowances, the NSFAS budget adjustment and the NSFAS accommodation pilot project.

NSFAS said the commitment made on the outstanding disbursement is to ensure that the 2023 bursary allowances do not affect the returning students for the 2024 academic year.

“Early in January 2024, the NSFAS Board will have further stakeholder engagements with the Universities South Africa (Usaf), the South African Public Colleges Organisation (SAPCO), the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA) and labour unions to brief them on the preparations for the 2024 academic year and the NSFAS eligibility criteria and conditions for financial aid,” NSFAS said in a statement.

NSFAS has disbursed about 234 124 students allowances from 5 December 2023, as part of the reconciled final disbursements for the 2023 academic year. This exercise was done in order to disburse the final allowances to students whose allowances where not concluded due to changes in their registration data.

NSFAS said this process ensures that disbursements are paid directly to institutions for tuition and for advancing payments to students.

“The [NSFAS] reconciliation data… is divided into three categories: (1) direct payment – direct allowance to students, (2) allowances on tuition disbursement to institutions, (3) student allowances via institutions.

“NSFAS confirms that there are 20 000 allowances which are yet to be concluded. These unresolved cases of disbursements require further input and consultation with institutions,” read the statement.

At its meeting, the board also discussed the NSFAS 2024 programme of action and the formation of a Rapid Response Team in preparation for the 2024 academic year.

2024 applications

Applications for financial aid for all learners who wish to enter the post-school system and students who do not have financial assistance to continue their studies in the 2024 academic year officially opened on 21 November 2023.

In a statement issued by NSFAS in November, NSFAS said applications for 2024 funding will close on 31 January 2024.

Werksmans Attorneys report

The NSFAS Board said it will further make public announcements on the implementation of the Werksmans Attorneys report in relation to direct payment service providers.

In October 2023, the NSFAS Board adopted the recommendations of the report into allegations surrounding the appointment of direct payment service providers.

The board had appointed Werksmans Attorneys and Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi to conduct an investigation into allegations of irregularities relating to Bid NO. SCMN022/2021. 

The investigation followed allegations against former NSFAS CEO Andile Nongogo relating to his conflict of interest in the appointment of service providers.

Despite the challenges, the board reaffirmed its commitment to implement the direct payment solution.

"The board views the direct payment solution as a necessary measure to reduce instances of unauthorised access to beneficiaries’ allowances, payment of ghost students, inconsistencies and delayed payments of allowances.

“The direct payment solution is inline with the Student-Centered Model that NSFAS adopted,” said board chairperson Ernest Khosa at a briefing in October. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:11

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Tourism monitors deployed to Table Mountain

Location: News

Tourism monitors deployed to Table Mountain

The deployment of 40 tourism monitors at the Table Mountain National Park has been welcomed by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The Tourism Monitors Programme is an initiative by the Department of Tourism to supplement safety and security measures by the South African Police Service to enhance the safety of tourists.

“The department has set aside R174.5 million from this year’s budget to deploy around 2 300 tourism monitors at key tourist attractions,” said the department.

The 2 305 tourism monitors will be deployed as follows:

Eastern Cape - 150

Free State - 150

Western Cape - 250

Gauteng - 100

Limpopo - 100

KwaZulu-Natal - 200

Mpumalanga - 220

North West - 100

Northern Cape - 70

iSimangaliso Wetland Park - 200

Ezemvelo nature Reserve - 150

SANBI Gardens - 130

ACSA Airports - 135

SANParks - 350

Out of the 350 monitors deployed to SANParks, 70 were allocated to Table Mountain National Park, of which 40 were deployed last week. The balance will be deployed in the New Year.

“Our national parks are key tourism attractions and remain top of our list for key source markets. The safety of all tourists remains paramount and we are determined to do all we can to ensure that all tourists have a safe and memorable experience.” – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:24

418 views
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