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President Ramaphosa to Officiate Signing of the Second Presidential Health Compact

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 15 August 2024, preside over the signing of the second Presidential Health Compact at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The second compact follows the 2023 Presidential Health Summit which built on the inaugural summit of 2018 and brought together government, business, labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions to challenges in the national health system.

The stakeholders involved in the Presidential Health Compact are integral to supporting the Department of Health in improving the health system.

It initially consisted of nine pillars with a 10th pillar added during last year's summit. 

These include development of human resources; improving access to medicine, vaccines and health products; upgrading infrastructure; private sector engagement; quality healthcare; public sector financial management improvements; governance and leadership; community engagements; information systems and pandemic preparedness.

The signing of the second Presidential Health Compact will take place as follows:
Date: Thursday, 15 August 2024 
Time: 14h30 (Media to arrive at 13h00) 
Venue: Union Buildings Courtyard, West Wing, Pretoria

Members of the media wishing to cover the event are asked to send their details to  Makungu Mbetse on makungu@presidency.gov.za and copy Patience Mtshali on patience@presidency.gov.za not later than today, Tuesday, 13 August 2024 at 17h00.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to Officiate Signing of the Second Presidential Health Compact

President Ramaphosa to officiate signing of the Presidential Health Compact

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to officiate signing of the Presidential Health Compact

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 15 August 2024, preside over the signing of the second Presidential Health Compact at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The second compact follows the 2023 Presidential Health Summit which built on the inaugural summit of 2018 and brought together several stakeholders. 

These include government, business, labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions to challenges in the national health system. 

According to the statement, the stakeholders involved in the Presidential Health Compact are integral to supporting the Department of Health in improving the health system.

The Presidential Health Compact initially consisted of nine pillars with the tenth pillar added during last year’s summit. 

These include the development of human resources, improving access to medicine, vaccines and health products, upgrading infrastructure, private sector engagement, quality healthcare, public sector financial management improvements, governance and leadership, community engagements, information systems and pandemic preparedness. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:29

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa to officiate signing of the Presidential Health Compact

Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

Location: News

Entrepreneurship can be used to lift more women out of poverty, says President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that through stronger collaboration between government and business, along with the backing of labor and civil society, entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool to lift more women out of poverty.

The President said this in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.

“With greater collaboration between government and business, together with the support of labour and civil society, we can use entrepreneurship to lift more women out of poverty. We can create more jobs for women and help more women secure their financial freedom,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the private sector is playing an important role in guiding these entrepreneurship journeys through start-up incubators, women entrepreneurship awards and programmes such as the Youth Employment Service.

With the help of the Social Employment Fund and others, government is enabling women entrepreneurs to employ workers and provide mentorship to trainees.

“There is much more that the private sector can do. Access to financial resources, including credit lines, is vital to the viability of women-owned businesses.

“Another important area is access to tools of financial inclusion like bank accounts and mobile money and payment technologies. It will be critical to broaden the reach of financial services to include women in the informal sector and in rural areas.

“Empowering women contributes to thriving economies, spurs productivity and boosts economic growth,” President Ramaphosa said.

Last week, the country commemorated the Women’s March to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. This historic protest by more than 20 000 South African women was a response to the cruel and dehumanising practices of the apartheid regime.

READ | Parliament committed to advancing gender equality

Thirty years into democracy, the President highlighted that government has made impressive strides in advancing gender equality across society, however we still have a long way to go in broadening women’s economic participation.

This is borne out by a recently published Gallup study titled ‘Gender Power in Africa’. The report analyses the disparities and imbalances that shape the lives of women in five African countries, including South Africa.

South Africa ranks the highest of the countries surveyed with respect to the rate of female participation in political decision-making, low rates of child marriage, and the participation and completion rates of girls in primary and secondary education.

However, of the countries surveyed, South Africa has the highest rate of unemployed women and women not in the workforce. The percentage of South African women considered to be self-employed or entrepreneurs is the lowest, at 5%.

“In this respect, we lag behind the rest of the continent. According to the World Economic Forum, women constitute 58% of self-employed people across Africa.  

“In a country such as ours, with a high unemployment rate, entrepreneurship is an important tool to empower more women and broaden their participation in the economy. This includes in the informal sector, which accounts for 18% of total employment in the country,” the President said.

WATCH | 

Through its various departments and entities, the President highlighted that the State provides financial support to women to enable them to start their own businesses and to sustain existing businesses.

Women-owned businesses are also able to access training in business and project management, IT and other skills.

“We have set a target to allocate at least 40% of public procurement spend to women-owned businesses. In 2021, we launched a Women’s Economic Assembly to enable women-owned enterprises to participate in local industry value chains. Since its inception this programme has yielded promising results in a number of key economic sectors, notably the automotive sector,” he said.

He further highlighted that government is striving to expand women’s access to economic activity through land ownership, enabling female farmers to own land through the state’s land redistribution programme and supporting them with equipment and other agricultural inputs.  

“From citrus farmers in the North West, cooperatives making affordable school furniture in KwaZulu-Natal, to cosmetics companies and tech start-ups in the Western Cape, women-owned enterprises all across the country are benefiting from an integrated approach to supporting small businesses,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

DikelediM
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 10:15

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DWS priorities completion of bucket eradication projects

Location: News

DWS priorities completion of bucket eradication projects

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says it will prioritise the completion of the remaining delayed Bucket Eradication Programme projects in the Northern Cape and the Free State.

Briefing the media on the department’s plans and priorities for the 2024/25 financial year on Monday, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina said of the 33 projects which formed part of the programme in the Free State, 26 have been completed (eradicating approximately 32 000 buckets).

“Approximately 10 000 buckets remain to be eradicated in the seven incomplete projects. Of 30 projects which formed part of the programme in the Northern Cape, 29 are completed (eradicating approximately 12 000 buckets), and 596 buckets remain to be eradicated in the one incomplete project,” Majodina said.

However, the Minister acknowledged that the programme will not result in the eradication of the “undignified” and “repugnant” bucket system altogether from the South African landscape. This is because the programme only focuses on eradicating buckets in certain towns in certain provinces, where they were identified in 2012.

She said since then, and on an ongoing basis, other municipalities elsewhere have introduced buckets systems in formal and informal settlements.

“The eradication of buckets is therefore a moving target. In order to address this, Cabinet has recently approved a National Sanitation Framework which will provide the basis for the department to issue new national minimum norms and standards for sanitation which will prohibit the use of the bucket system in both formal and informal settlements,” Majodina said.

Working together with the Water Research Commission, the department is developing new safe, dignified, on-site and non-sewered sanitation systems.

“These solutions will use much less water than water-borne sewered sanitation systems, which is necessary in a water scarce country such as South Africa. Such systems will need to be implemented by municipalities.”

Strengthening partnerships

The Minister added that the Ministry of Water and Sanitation will continue to collaborate with all sectors, especially the private sector, to contribute to resolving the country’s water and sanitation challenges.

This is in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call to strengthen collaboration and social compacts with the private sector, labour, civil society and government.

In addition to partnerships with mining houses for water supply projects, the department is also facilitating partnerships between the private sector and municipalities, through its Water Partnerships Office, which was established in collaboration with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA).

This includes finalising plans with the eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo City, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Tshwane municipalities to mobilise private sector finance for the replacement of leaking municipal water distribution pipes which are resulting in high levels of non-revenue water.

Water Services Amendment Bill 

Meanwhile, the department will shortly be presenting the Water Services Amendment Bill to Cabinet for approval for it to be submitted to Parliament.

Majodina noted that despite the high level of support provided by the department to the municipalities, the municipal water and sanitation services continue to decline.

She said the Amendment Bill provides for the introduction of an operating license system for Water Services Providers, to enable Water Services Authorities to ensure that their providers have a minimum level of capability to provide water and sanitation services that meet national norms and standards.

“The amendments propose that this should be done through the introduction of an operating license requirement for Water Services Providers, to ensure that they have a minimum level of competency.

“The Bill also introduces measures to enable the national department to take regulatory action against municipalities which do not comply with national minimum norms and standards for water services,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 08/05/2024 - 14:23

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3rd Annual B Lab Africa Summit 2024 to be hosted in South Africa

Location: MyPR

PRETORIA, South Africa – Themed Resilience and Growth in Africa: Leading Sustainable Businesses, Driving Change, and International Opportunities, the summit is gearing up for its 3rd annual edition, its first in South Africa, addressing the continent’s critical challenges by bringing together industry, academia, and government stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions and strategies for building a …

Read more3rd Annual B Lab Africa Summit 2024 to be hosted in South Africa

Call for inclusion of young professionals in finding solutions to water challenges

Location: News

Call for inclusion of young professionals in finding solutions to water challenges

The National Water and Sanitation Youth Indaba has thrust into the spotlight the inclusion of young professionals in research and innovation to improve the water sector.

The Department of Water and Sanitation, in conjunction with its entity in Limpopo, Lepelle Northern Water, hosted the Indaba under the theme: “Actively embracing the socio-economic gains of our democracy” last week.

Addressing the young professionals, Lepelle Northern Board Chairperson, Dr Nndweleni Mphephu, emphasised the significance of the youth’s active participation in research and innovation in the sector.

“As many might be aware of the challenges facing the water sector, which are increasingly being exacerbated by the impact of climate change, I urge you all to invest your brilliant young and sharp minds into research and to find long lasting solutions that could steer the sector to new heights,” Mphephu said.

The Department’s Chief Director responsible for Intergovernmental Relations, Sector Transformation and Provincial Governance, Petunia Ramunenyiwa emphasised the department’s commitment to the inclusion of young professionals, as a means to finding innovative solutions to address challenges faced by the sector.

“This Indaba is one of the programmes of the Department of Water and Sanitation that is very close to my heart, and it is by no means just a talk shop but a platform for engagement and exchange of knowledge and technical expertise that will improve the sector’s governance and transformation,” Ramunenyiwa said.

The indaba undertook discussions that provided opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise aimed at improving the sector’s governance and transformation.

These included discussions on understanding national water and sanitation issues and government priorities, providing youth with information, opportunities, and technical resources available within the sector, as well as encouraging community involvement in the sector and establishing partnerships with the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders, among others.

To give a first-hand account of the operations of water testing and water treatment, the department and Lepelle Northern Water led a guided tour of the Ebenezer Water Treatment Plant, which mainly treats water abstracted from Ebenezer Dam and supplies to Polokwane Local Municipality and surrounding areas.  

An excursion was also undertaken to the University of Limpopo’s water laboratory to explore the analytical methods used to conduct water quality analysis.

The laboratory is among the country's best and most advanced technologies, which use methods, including inductively coupled plasma to analyse heavy metals in water samples.

The National Water and Sanitation Youth Indaba was attended by more than 400 participants in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector from various backgrounds, including unemployed individuals, professionals, entrepreneurs, young professionals and civil society organisations.

The four-day Indaba was held in Polokwane, in Limpopo from 22-25 July 2024.

Among the issues discussed were the department’s youth strategy with a special focus on innovations and entrepreneurship, challenges and opportunities in South Africa's water and sanitation sector, South Africa's water issues in the global context, as well as education and career opportunities within the sector. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:24

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Conference to reflect on 30 years of democracy

Location: News

Conference to reflect on 30 years of democracy

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the National School of Government (NSG) are co-hosting a seminal conference this week, to reflect on the state of South Africa, 30 years into its democracy. 

The conference will focus on three decades of democracy in South Africa and will zoom into social, economic and global transformation. This as South Africans of all races went to the polls for the first time in April 1994, ushering in a new democratic dispensation.

The event got under way on Thursday and is organised in association with The Presidency, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), and the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA). 

The conference will feature key panelists from the public service, academia, and civil society, fostering a national discourse through research and dynamic social dialogue. 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is scheduled to deliver the keynote address on the second day of the conference on Friday. 

The gathering aims to assess the country’s democratic achievements and ongoing challenges, encouraging an inclusive discussion on the future trajectory of South Africa. 

While significant strides have been made in dismantling the legacy of apartheid and establishing a participatory democratic system, the institutions said the country continues to grapple with challenges. 

These include declining voter participation, inequality, widespread poverty, high unemployment, water insecurity, an energy crisis, corruption, and the mounting threat of climate change. 

“Addressing these complex issues demands a concerted effort from all sectors of society – government, civil society, and business,” the co-hosts said in a statement. 

Attendees will be encouraged to consider the interconnectedness of social, political, cultural, and economic dimensions that shape the lived experiences of individuals in South Africa’s diverse society. 

UJ Faculty of Humanities’ Professor Kamilla Naidoo emphasised the importance of this conference. 

“This conference represents a critical opportunity to reflect on South Africa’s journey over the past three decades. While the introduction of free tertiary education in South Africa through various initiatives such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme marks a bold stride towards equity and opportunity, the conference will also address broader issues such as inequality, unemployment, and climate change,” Naidoo said. 

By examining these interconnected challenges, the professor spoke of fostering a dialogue that will contribute to the refinement of existing policies and the creation of new strategies for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

The Principal of the NSG, Professor Busani Ngcaweni, said as the country commemorates three decades of democracy, it is an opportune time to reflect on the path travelled, acknowledge the hurdles that lie ahead, and reaffirm the collective commitment to building a nation that embodies the core values of equality, justice, and shared prosperity. 

He pointed out: “Thirty years is an important milestone in the life of any living being, institution, or democracy. Looking at South Africa and its democracy using the metaphor of a child that grows from zero to thirty years we will be able to explain the best and challenges of what the country has gone through as anyone who grows up between the age of zero to thirty”. – SAnews.gov.za 

 

Gabisile
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 11:14

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Chair of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture Presents Annual Report to the Committee against Torture

Location: News

Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
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The Chair of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture this morning presented the Subcommittee's seventeenth annual report to the Committee against Torture.

Suzanne Jabbour, Chairperson of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, said that in 2023, the landscape within which the Subcommittee and the Committee operated had been significantly shaped by conflict, yet the commitment to the prevention of torture remained resolute. In 2023, the Subcommittee conducted eight official visits to the Philippines, Georgia, Guatemala, State of Palestine, Croatia, Madagascar, Kazakhstan and South Africa.

In 2024, the Subcommittee had already conducted visits to Gabon, Albania, Honduras and Mongolia, and planned to extend its efforts to Bolivia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Greece and Nigeria throughout the rest of the year. Despite these efforts, the Subcommittee faced notable operational challenges, primarily stemming from resource limitations, as well as the prevailing liquidity crisis at the United Nations. The exchange of information between the Subcommittee and the Committee was a vital lifeline that enhanced operational efficiency.

In the ensuing discussion, Committee Experts asked about the impact of states of emergency and armed conflict on the work of the Committee, as well as how to encourage States to commit themselves to the principle of transparency.

The Committee against Torture will next meet in public this afternoon on Tuesday, 23 July at 4 p.m., for a follow-up discussion on articles 19 and 22 and on reprisals.

Statement by the Chair of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture

SUZANNE JABBOUR, Chairperson of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, said the session this year took place in a year of special significance, the celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the Convention against Torture. In 2023, the landscape within which the Subcommittee and the Committee operated had been significantly shaped by conflict, yet the commitment to the prevention of torture remained resolute. Throughout the year, the Subcommittee had expanded its reach within the framework of the Optional Protocol to the Convention, with the accession of Côte d'Ivoire and the ratification by Slovakia, increasing the number of States parties to 93.

In 2023, the Subcommittee conducted eight official visits to the Philippines, Georgia, Guatemala, State of Palestine, Croatia, Madagascar, Kazakhstan and South Africa. These missions allowed the Subcommittee to identify repetitive issues and advocate for necessary reforms, including the establishment of national preventive mechanisms, actions to reduce prison overcrowding, and the modernisation of prison systems. In 2024, the Subcommittee had already conducted visits to Gabon, Albania, Honduras and Mongolia, and planned to extend its efforts to Bolivia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Greece and Nigeria throughout the rest of the year.

During its visits in 2023, the Subcommittee had conducted more than 1,100 interviews with more than 3,500 persons, including detainees, officials, law enforcement personnel, and medical staff. The Subcommittee's approach was informed by the particular cultural, socio-economic, and institutional contexts of each country, enabling the Subcommittee to tailor advice to the different authorities. Despite these efforts, the Subcommittee had faced notable operational challenges, primarily stemming from resource limitations, as well as the prevailing liquidity crisis at the United Nations. Ms. Jabbour was pleased to have been informed that the Subcommittee would be able to proceed with planned missions to Nigeria, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Greece, as well as their third session.

Although not without challenges, the Subcommittee's visits yielded promising direct outcomes. During the recent visit to Honduras, the Subcommittee witnessed deeply troubling conditions in places of deprivation of liberty. While, the outlook was challenging, the Subcommittee's presence acted as a catalyst, possibly accelerating the appointment of the remaining commissioners of the national preventive mechanism. To provide comprehensive insights into the operational challenges, this year's report included annexes that addressed specific inquiries raised by national preventive mechanisms.

The Subcommittee continued to foster relationships with various United Nations bodies, regional organizations, and civil society stakeholders to bolster efforts in torture prevention. Notably, collaboration extended to the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions during the International Conference on the Prevention of Torture held in Copenhagen. The publication of the Subcommittee's general comment no.1 on article 4 of the Optional Protocol to the Convention, adopted during their June session, would provide much-needed clarity to ensure comprehensive access for monitoring bodies, including national preventive mechanisms, in gaining access to places of deprivation of liberty.

The exchange of information between the Subcommittee and the Committee was a vital lifeline that enhanced operational efficiency. This synergy was further magnified by the Committee's role in advocating for the ratification of the Optional Protocol and the establishment of national preventive mechanisms by States. The expected adoption of the resolution by the Chairs of the treaty bodies this December to endorse the strengthening process would highlight the shared leadership between the Committee and the Subcommittee. Ms. Jabbour reasserted the Subcommittee's dedication to this cooperation and to the common goal, to prevent, and ultimately end, the use of torture and all forms of ill treatment.

Questions by Committee Experts

A Committee Expert said the Committee noted with appreciation the report of the Subcommittee and the publication of the general comment, clarifying the concept of places of deprivation of liberty. Effective coordination between the Committee and the Subcommittee was of vital importance. Transparency constituted a measure to prevent the risk of torture. The report indicated that by the end of 2023, 52 of the 82 visit reports had been made public, a total of 63 per cent. It was important to continue efforts to remain seized of this matter. Did the Subcommittee have further guidance to enhance commitments of States parties to upscale their efforts to commit themselves to the principle of transparency?

CLAUDE HELLER, Committee Chairperson, thanked Ms. Jabbour for presenting the report, which contained a great deal of substantive information. The report outlined the constraints being faced by the Committee and Subcommittee. The Committee and the Subcommittee played a pivotal role despite prevailing challenges. It was positive that the Subcommittee would be able to undertake a series of visits this year and hold their November session. This year, the Committee was commemorating the fortieth anniversary of the Convention. The issue of ratifications of the Optional Protocol should be highlighted. It was important that countries established national preventive mechanisms and facilitated visits to places of detention.

When the Subcommittee visited a State where there was a state of emergency in place, had they faced restrictions on their visits to places of detention? Many of the treaty bodies had been advocating for appropriate resources in light of the backlog of reports which needed to be reviewed by the Committees. How had this affected the Subcommittee with delays in conducting visits?

A Committee Expert said there were more than 100 armed conflicts in the world today. Could the Subcommittee work in the difficult circumstances of an armed conflict? Could they still undertake visits and visit detainees?

Responses by the Chair of the Subcommittee

SUZANNE JABBOUR, Chairperson of the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, said the work of the Subcommittee was built with the State on the principle of confidentiality. The presence of national preventive mechanisms could be a great added value to push for the publications of reports. The Subcommittee tried to have synergy with the national preventive mechanisms; they were their partners on the ground. Currently, States were less interested in human rights, particularly on issues relating to torture prevention. Other actors could also support the work of the Subcommittee, including the national human rights institutions.

The Subcommittee had faced the state of emergency issue in Palestine, where they had engaged with the authorities and the de-facto authorities. The Subcommittee had the obligation to respect how the United Nations engaged with de-facto authorities. Based on this, the Subcommittee failed to visit Gaza. The armed conflicts around the world put further responsibility on the Subcommittee. Because the Subcommittee had a proactive mandate, it believed that during armed conflicts, lifesaving actions were a priority, rather than preventive actions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

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SA delegation in Munich for International AIDS conference

Location: News

SA delegation in Munich for International AIDS conference

Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, has arrived in Munich, Germany, ahead of the 25th International AIDS Conference, scheduled to take place from Monday to Friday.

The Deputy Minister will lead the South African delegation at the conference which will be held under the theme: “Put people first”.

This year’s conference theme highlights a clarion call for all key role players to strengthen efforts in deepening human rights, providing adequate health care facilities and protecting civil rights. 

The AIDS 2024 Conference offers a platform to address persistent challenges which impact negatively on countries' overall HIV response.

Phaahla is supported by the SA Patron of the Global Alliance for ending AIDS in children by 2030, Humile Mashatile, the SANAC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Thembisile Xulu, Health Department Director General, Dr Sandile Buthelezi, a team of health scientists, civil society activists, social partners as well as senior government officials. 

“This important world’s largest and most influential conference on HIV/AIDS, will feature discussions on, amongst others, key population-led innovations, artificial intelligence and digital technology in healthcare provision, HIV and climate change, prevention of vertical transformation and also consider lessons from COVID-19 on misinformation,” the Presidency said in a statement.

In this regard, the SA Global Alliance Patron, Humile Mashatile, will participate in panel discussions focused on “Connecting data, programmes and communities with the view to contribute in defining Global Alliance Roadmap to Ending AIDS in Children by 2030”.   

Mashatile will also meet with the Executive Director of UNAIDS, Winnie Byanyima, to outline the strategic plans and programmes developed by key South African role-players, geared towards ending AIDS in Children by 2030. 

The Human Sciences research Council (HSRC) of South Africa, which is Africa’s largest dedicated social science and humanities research agency and policy think tank, will utilise the opportunity to present a study on South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence and Behavior (SABSSM) survey results. 

This critical work by the HSRC signifies an important legacy collection of public data that has contributed to the improvement of lives for citizens.

The Deputy Minister and the delegation will join world activists in confronting challenges and identifying opportunities to accelerate progress in HIV science, policy and initiatives, to foster a more resilient, equitable and sustainable international community. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 07/22/2024 - 09:52

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Africa – Unfinished business: only urgent and accelerated delivery of HIV services will keep the promise of ending AIDS in children by 2030

Location: News

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
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Despite progress made in reducing HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths among children, a new report released today by the Global Alliance for Ending AIDS in Children by 2030 shows that an urgent scale up of HIV services in countries worst affected by the pandemic is required to end AIDS by 2030.

The report, Transforming Vision Into Reality, shows that programmes targeting vertical transmission of HIV have averted 4 million infections among children aged 0-14 years old since 2000. Globally, new HIV infections among children aged 0-14 years old have declined by 38 per cent since 2015 and AIDS-related deaths have fallen by 43 per cent.    

Among the 12 Global Alliance countries, several have achieved strong coverage of lifelong antiretroviral therapy among pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV, with Uganda nearing 100 per cent, United Republic of Tanzania at 98 per cent, and South Africa at 97 per cent. Mozambique has achieved 90 per cent coverage, with Zambia at 90 per cent, Angola at 89 per cent, Kenya at 89 per cent, Zimbabwe at 88 per cent, and Cote d'Ivoire at 84 per cent.

“I applaud the progress that many countries are making in rolling out HIV services to keep young women healthy and to protect babies and children from HIV,” said UNAIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima. “With the medicines and science available today, we can ensure that all babies are born – and remain – HIV-free, and that all children who are living with HIV get on and stay on treatment. Services for treatment and prevention must be ramped up immediately to ensure that they reach all children everywhere. We cannot rest on our laurels. The death of any child from AIDS related causes is not only a tragedy, but also an outrage. Where I come from, all children are our children. The world can and must keep its promise to end AIDS in children by 2030.”

Global Alliance countries are innovating to overcome barriers and accelerate progress towards ending AIDS in children. However, despite advances neither the world nor Global Alliance countries are currently on track to reach HIV-related commitments for children and adolescents and the pace of progress in preventing new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths among children has slowed in recent years.

“Accelerating the delivery and uptake of HIV services for children and adolescents is a moral obligation, and a political choice,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization. “Twelve countries are demonstrating they have made that choice, but significant challenges remain. While we have made progress in increasing access for pregnant women to testing and treatment to prevent vertical transmission of HIV, we are still far from closing the paediatric treatment gap. We need to further strengthen the collaboration and reach of the Global Alliance, and we must do this work with focus, purpose and in solidarity with all affected mothers, children, and adolescents.”

Around 120 000 children aged 0-14 years old became infected with HIV in 2023, with around 77 000 of these new infections occurring in the Global Alliance countries. AIDS-related deaths among children aged 0-14 years old numbered 76 000 globally with Global Alliance countries accounting for 49 000 of these unnecessary deaths. Vertical transmission rates remain extremely high in some locations, particularly in Western and Central Africa, with rates exceeding 20 per cent in countries including Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“In the fight against HIV, we must do a much better job for children,” said Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which provides funding for HIV programmes in over 100 countries through a country-led partnership model. “In support of national programmes, we have been procuring the latest dolutegravir-based paediatric treatment regimens at negotiated prices. Our investments in laboratory systems are helping ensure exposed infants are rapidly tested and that those that test positive are quickly initiated on age-appropriate antiretroviral treatment. Differentiated testing and treatment approaches are helping close the diagnostic gap and ensuring more child-centred service delivery.”

It is concerning that the treatment gap between adults and children continues to widen.

“Just 57 per cent of children living with HIV receive life-saving treatment, compared to 77 per cent of adults,” said UNICEF Associate Director HIV/AIDS, Anurita Bains. “Without early and effective testing and treatment, HIV remains a persistent threat to the health and well-being of children and adolescents and puts them at risk of death. To close the treatment gap, we must support governments to scale up innovative testing approaches and ensure children and adolescents living with HIV receive the treatment and support they need.”

In 2023, there were 210 000 new infections globally among young women and girls aged 15—24 years old (130 000 in Global Alliance countries), four times higher than the 2025 goal set at 50 000. Preventing new infections among this age group is critical both to protect the health and wellbeing of young women and to reduce the risk of new infections among children.

Gender inequalities and human rights violations are increasing women's vulnerability to HIV and diminishing their ability to access essential services. Globally, nearly one in three women have encountered some form of violence during their lifetime, with adolescent girls and young women disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence. In the four Global Alliance countries with available data, countries are not currently on track to achieve the target of ensuring that by 2025 less than 10 per cent of women, key populations and people living with HIV experience gender-based inequalities and gender violence.

"It has been remarkable to see how many more children's lives can be saved when all stakeholders and partners come together to commit to end AIDS in children. While much progress has been made, notably through the successful introduction of pediatric dolutegravir, large gaps still remain across the pediatric cascade and we must recommit ourselves with purpose and innovation to fulfill the promises we have made by 2025 and beyond,” said Ambassador John N. Nkengasong, United States Global AIDS Coordinator and Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy.

The Global Alliance for Ending AIDS in Children by 2030 was launched in 2022 by WHO, UNICEF and WHO to reinvigorate the paediatric HIV agenda. It has now grown, and in addition to the United Nations agencies, the alliance includes civil society movements, including the Global Network of People living with HIV, national governments in the most affected countries, and international partners, including PEPFAR and the Global Fund. Twelve countries are members: Angola, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Read moreAfrica – Unfinished business: only urgent and accelerated delivery of HIV services will keep the promise of ending AIDS in children by 2030

Afrika Tikkun Announces 30 Year Milestone: Developing A Brighter Future For South Africa’s Youth From Cradle To Career

Location: MyPR

17 July 2024, Johannesburg: As the nation grapples with ongoing stark inequalities, pervasive poverty and a dire youth unemployment rate, Afrika Tikkun, a leading youth development non-profit organisation, marks its 30-year legacy of creating holistic development, sustainable impact and tackling South Africa’s (SA’s) entrenched socio-economic disparities to foster an equitable society for all. The country’s …

Read moreAfrika Tikkun Announces 30 Year Milestone: Developing A Brighter Future For South Africa’s Youth From Cradle To Career

Building a better SA, weaver bird style 

Location: News

Building a better SA, weaver bird style 

Just as friends and families often pull together to ensure a roof over the heads of their loved ones, or their general well-being, President Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed to the larger South African family to behave as weaver birds who give their all to build and cooperate.

The call to become birds of a feather, was made by President Ramaphosa as he delivered the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday night, at the Cape Town City Hall.

“We would like all of us as South Africans to behave like ‘weaver birds’. Weavers are among the most gregarious birds in that they build complex structures together and cooperate. 

"Despite all the challenges, despite our differences, despite all the headwinds, as South Africans we are called upon to remain firmly committed to pursue the path of cooperation, growth and inclusion,” said President Ramaphosa who set the tone of the seventh administration’s Government of National Unity (GNU).

The formation of the GNU follows the 29 May historic National and Provincial Elections which produced no outright winner necessitating the formation of the GNU which is made up of 10 parties represented in the seventh Parliament. 

Indlulamithi Scenarios

Exactly fifty days since South Africa held the elections, the President, in emphasising the need for us to look after one another, referred to the Indlulamithi Scenarios 2035.  The scenarios were the result of a diverse group of partners and stakeholders from across society coming together to consider various scenarios for the future of South Africa Inc. 

One of the scenarios they described was the ‘The Recrimination Nation’, using the loud Hadeda bird as its symbol. This described a situation of inaction, where the country’s problems go unresolved, and where everyone blames each other for South Africa’s ills. This scenario painted a picture of the country going into decline. 

The second scenario, symbolised by a vulture, painted a picture of a desperate nation governed by a populist coalition whose main objective is self-enrichment and patronage. This scenario saw investment confidence being eroded, the growth path being low and unemployment, poverty and inequality remaining extremely high. 

Stakeholders and partners also described a scenario they called ‘The Cooperation Nation’, symbolised by the social weaver birds.

“This scenario paints a picture where after disruptions and protests there is a coming together of political parties, the state, private sector and civil society in order to jointly identify priorities and leveraging the strength of each. 

"There is change in the form of governance and reform that leads to the economy growing, with more investment attracted, leading to the reduction of unemployment, inequality and poverty," the President explained. 

"By establishing the Government of National Unity, by preparing for a National Dialogue, we have deliberately set ourselves along the path towards a ‘cooperation nation’,” he said. 

With the country charting its path in the new GNU, the President reflected on the democratic South Africa’s founding President, Nelson Mandela, who is being remembered today through the Mandela Day initiative.

“Thirty years ago, President Nelson Mandela stood before this House to reflect on the first 100 days of the first Government of National Unity. 

"Recognising the different views of the diverse parties within the government, he said: ‘What brings us together is the overriding commitment to a joint national effort to reconcile our nation and improve its well-being.” 

President Ramaphosa said the same could be said of the current GNU parties who share a commitment to reconcile the nation by advancing social justice and equal prosperity for all. 
“We are committed to improve the well-being of our country and its people through inclusive growth, the creation of jobs and the reduction of poverty. This is an undertaking that involves us all.”

National Dialogue

To address the laundry basket of South Africa’s challenges, President Ramaphosa spoke to the holding of a National Dialogue and to agree on what needs to be done to achieve a better future.

Having announced the National Dialogue commitment at the Presidential Inauguration on 19 June, the President said people across society have expressed their support for the dialogue.

“They have said it should involve all key stakeholders in the life of our country, representing civil society, traditional leaders, the faith-based sector, labour, business, cultural workers, sports people and other formations representing the diverse interests and voices of our citizens. 

“Following the example set by historic events, such as the Congress of the People in 1955, the Conference for a Democratic Future in 1989 and the CODESA talks in the early 1990s and drawing on the experience of the writing of our new democratic constitution in 1996, we envisage a National Dialogue that involves extensive and inclusive public participation.”

He added that government will seek to forge a common vision and build a comprehensive social compact with a clear programme of action to realise aspirations for the country. 

“Through this National Dialogue, we are called to be agents of change, to be champions of inclusive growth, to be creators of opportunity,” said the President.

While we may not have a crystal ball to gaze into collective South Africa's future, what is certain is that if we all remain eagle-eyed, South Africa will be better for all.

“We have an opportunity to make South Africa a better nation,” said the President. SAnews.gov.za

 

Neo
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:15

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CoGTA Minister talks tough on underperforming municipalities

Location: News

CoGTA Minister talks tough on underperforming municipalities

Newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has stated that the seventh administration is committed to working towards turning around dysfunctional municipalities, including the eThekwini Metro.

Hlabisa used his Budget Vote Speech in Parliament on Tuesday to acknowledge some of the challenges faced by local municipalities. 

Going forward, the Minister stated that the department will continue to implement and enforce compliance with Municipal Support and Intervention Plans (MSIPs) and employ financial recovery plans in distressed municipalities.

Municipalities in distress

He told Parliamentarians that the current leadership plans to prioritise five additional municipalities that are in severe financial and governance distress which has negatively impacted service delivery. 

“Some have struggled to pay salaries over the past three to six months.  Some have debts that seem insurmountable as well as prolonged and expensive litigation,” he explained. 

These municipalities are Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng and Thabazimbi in Limpopo. 

“Additionally, we will address the challenges faced by the eThekwini Metro, which is grappling with governance, institutional, and service delivery issues.” 

According to the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) President, eThekwini is currently also receiving support from the national government led by the Presidency and KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA. 

“It is important to note that this prioritisation does not imply that other municipalities are not facing similar challenges. Our commitment remains to support all municipalities that are experiencing difficulties.”

The Cooperative Governance budget is sitting at R395.7 billion, with a significant portion of 95.9% (R379.61 billion) to be transferred to municipalities and affiliated entities.

The R379.61 billion of the department’s total budget over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, will primarily cover the local government equitable share, disaster relief grant and the municipal infrastructure grant.

In addition, he stated that the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) will continue its efforts to assist the 22 distressed municipalities that are increasingly confronted with the need for infrastructure investments to deliver essential municipal services.

“They also struggle to mobilise resources for this infrastructure due to their borrowing limitations and reduced transfers from the national government amid fiscal constraints,” he explained. 

He believes government’s success depends on the collective efforts of Parliament, departments, municipalities, traditional leaders, civil society, and every citizen. 

He stated that his department aims to eliminate fragmentation in the planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring of government programs by the end of the seventh administration’s term. 

“We cannot sit on the sidelines whilst the taxpayers’ money is not used as planned and infrastructure that could benefit our communities remains a dream,” he said. 

Traditional leadership 

Hlabisa also used his Budget Speech Vote to throw his weight behind traditional leadership, including the Khoi-San community. 

“Time for lamenting is over; we must join hands to make an impact by turning dysfunctional municipalities around and improve support for institutions of traditional and Khoi-San leadership. The seventh administration has opened a new chapter which must be a turning point for the CoGTA sector post 30 years of freedom and democracy.” 

The Traditional Affairs department has been allocated a budget that amounts to R187.3 million, which has been reduced by R5.8 million compared to the previous year’s allocation.

According to the Minister, the institution of traditional and Khoi-San leadership has raised several issues with the government through various engagement platforms during previous administrations. 

“Our traditional and Khoi-San leaders also face their own set of challenges which include uneven provision of support and resources to fulfil their roles effectively, challenges in integrating traditional and Khoi-San leadership structures with municipal governance frameworks, and the need to finalise the formal recognition of khoi-San leaders and to promote respect for the cultural heritage which traditional and Khoi-San leaders are custodians of.”

During the current financial year, the department will continue to support the Commission on Khoi-San Matters (CKSM) to ensure it completes its work and submits recommendations. 

The CKSM was  established to handle applications for the recognition of Khoi-San communities and leaders and to submit recommendations to the Ministry. 

The Commission has received 124 applications and conducted 62 Applicant Member Investigations (AMIs) to ensure application completeness. 

“Let me remind this August House that the 2026 Local Government Elections are around the corner and the present term of local government comes to an end. We owe it to our communities to better their lives through effective and impactful service delivery.” – SAnews.go.za
 

 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 10:31

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EPWP programme exceeds target

Location: News

EPWP programme exceeds target

With over 80 000 work opportunities created, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment will continue to focus on the creation of work opportunities through the implementation of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) in carrying out its mandate.

“Through a range of EPWP projects implemented by the department, the DFFE exceeded its 2023/24 EPWP target of creating 42 302 work opportunities, as the department created a total of 80 918 work opportunities,” said Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts.

Speaking at the Budget Vote of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, the first in the seventh administration for the department, the Deputy Minister said these work opportunities benefited 60% women, 58% youth and 1% of persons with disabilities.

“Youth employment included the employment of graduates, enabling them to gain critical experience in line with section 24 of the Constitution. 

"It is encouraging that some of these graduates were absorbed into the municipalities and other host organisations.”

The department met its target for full time equivalents (FTEs), meaning that it was able to improve the duration of employment as EPWP participants are paid in accordance with the number of days worked.

Swarts said the implementation of the Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme through a partnership model with the municipalities created the most work opportunities.

“The partnership had the department paying for the EPWP stipends and providing the primary project management responsibilities. The municipalities provided personal protective equipment (PPE), tools of trade and medical screening.

“The Municipal Greening and Cleaning Programme contributed to the waste management service delivery through daily cleaning-up and clearing of illegal hotspots,” she said.

In this financial year, the department has prioritised the creation of 31 075 EPWP work opportunities and 22 538 full time equivalents through the implementation of the Working for Water, Working on Fire and Working for Wetlands and the Municipal Greening and Cleaning programmes.

“SANParks – one of our entities - also participates in the DFFE funded EPWP which is aimed at creating jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities.

“Under this programme, SANParks exceeded all targets in the previous financial year, having employed 5 150 full-time equivalents, employing 7 098 youth, 6 483 women and 198 people with disabilities.

“Over the medium term, under this programme, SANParks aims to create over 13 860 jobs targeting women, youth and people with disabilities, mostly from neighbouring communities to national parks.”

The department is implementing the National Greening Programme, which aims to coordinate national, provincial and local government initiatives and those of civil society to plant, care and maintain trees and other vegetation in urban and rural settlement areas.

“An estimated 1 177 390 trees were planted through DFFE initiatives and other stakeholders in the 2023/24 financial year. This resulted in the creation of 4062 work opportunities as it is implemented through the EPWP,” said Swarts. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Tue, 07/16/2024 - 10:44

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South Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government

Location: MyPR

Afrika Tikkun calls for the Government of National Unity to ensure accountability and serve national interests. 03 July 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa: – Responding to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet announcement, South Africans are demanding that the newly established historic coalition government must close the door on exploitation, delivering tangible change to a nation crippled by …

Read moreSouth Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government

Cape Town school shortlisted for World’s Best School Prize

Location: News

Cape Town school shortlisted for World's Best School Prize

The independent school Christel House, which made the top 10 shortlist for the World’s Best School Prize for ‘Overcoming Adversity,” has received a congratulatory message from the Western Cape Education Department.

The school, which is situated in Ottery in Cape Town, serves learners from disadvantaged communities.

Christel House’s mission is to help children break the cycle of poverty, realise their hopes and dreams, and become self-sufficient members of society.

Most of the learners at the school must face gang warfare, drugs, alcoholism, hunger and abuse to make it to school every day. 

Christel DeHaan, a German American businesswoman and philanthropist, founded the school, which offers Grades R through 12.

Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, congratulated Christel House for being a finalist in the World’s Best Schools competition for 2024. 

“The school is doing excellent work supporting learners from poor communities to receive a world-class education, and it is fitting that they have been selected as a finalist in the ‘Overcoming Adversity’ category. We wish them all the best in the next phase of the competition, and we are holding thumbs for the announcement of the top three in September.”

Christel House joins the Western Cape’s list of previous top 10 and top three finalists in the World Best School Prize.

In 2022, Pinelands-North Primary School achieved the top three position in the category ‘Overcoming Adversity’, while the West End Primary School featured in the top 10 position in the same category. 

Last year, the Rustenburg Girls High School scooped the top 10 position in the category for ‘Supporting Healthy Lives’.

The top three finalists for each of the five World’s Best School Prizes - for Community Collaboration, Environmental Action, Innovation, Overcoming Adversity, and Supporting Healthy Lives - will be announced later this year. 

After a public advisory vote, the winner of each prize will be chosen based on rigorous criteria by a judging academy comprising distinguished leaders across the globe including academics, educators, non-government organisations (NGOs), social entrepreneurs, government, civil society, and the private sector.

“We are delighted that Christel House will have the opportunity to showcase their ‘best practice’ to the world and are rooting for them to make the finals.” 

The World’s Best School Prizes are the world’s most prestigious education awards, giving inspirational schools a share of the $50 000 (R 924 816.50) award and a global platform so others can replicate their best practices. 

This year’s list features Afghanistan’s only school helping students with all kinds of disabilities to a school in Poland set up for Ukrainian refugees. 

On the list, there is also a school from Italy tackling bullying and a London school confronting knife crime. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 11:51

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Human rights organisation welcomes Women Ministry appointments

Location: News

Human rights organisation welcomes Women Ministry appointments

An organisation promoting the human rights and empowerment of women and girls has commended the appointment of new Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga and Deputy Minister Mmapaseka Steve Letsike to the portfolio.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced Chikunga and Letsike’s appointments in an address to the nation on Sunday night. The Minister and Deputy Minister are members of the national executive of the seventh administration under the principles of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

A former Transport Minister, Chikunga takes over the reins from former Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who was appointed as the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities from 6 March 2023.

Letsike is the founding Executive Director of Access Chapter 2 (AC2), a non-profit organisation (NPO) and public benefit organisation (PBO).

AC2 was initiated to promote the human rights and empowerment of women and girls, and LGBTI+ people (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex) in all their diversities, facilitating participation of civil society organisations at a local, national, regional and international level by creating space and coordinating platforms for engagement on governance, policy and accountability processes.

Access Chapter 2 commended the appointment of the two principals, noting that Letsike’s appointment as a Deputy Minister is a testament to her expertise, passion, and commitment to public service.

“We have no doubt that they will bring the same level of dedication and innovation to their new role, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have on policy making and decision-making at the highest levels of government.

“We are confident that [Letsike] will continue to be a strong voice for diversity, equality, and justice in her new role, and we wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her career,” AC2 spokesperson, Clement Mampane, said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has also welcomed Chikunga and Letsike’s appointment, noting its mandate to lead on socio-economic transformation and the implementation of the empowerment and participation of women, youth and people with disabilities through mainstreaming, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation. 

“Guided by the principles of partnership and collaboration, the incoming administration, will continue to advance, progressive laws to address the legacy of apartheid by confronting gender Inequalities perpetuated by the lack of meaningful economic participation and representation across several socio-economic domains,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 10:38

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SIU collaborates to continue fight against corruption through data analytics

Location: News

SIU collaborates to continue fight against corruption through data analytics

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has strengthened its hand to fight corruption through data analytics.

This as the unit has joined forces – through memoranda of understanding – with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) Anti-Corruption Coalition (ACC), the Transparency, Integrity, and Accountability Programme (TIP) of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.

SIU head, Advocate Andy Mothibi, explained how the partnerships pave the way for the unit to sharpen its tools against corruption.

“Through these partnerships, the SIU will embark on statistical research efforts, proactive strengths and risk exposures, sector-based data analysis, awareness and advisory initiatives, capacity building, and integrating data analytics and predictive analysis into the institutions’ risk management systems,” he said.

He added that the unit must take the lead in fighting the scourge of corruption by making it increasingly difficult for criminals to have their way.

“To achieve this, the SIU must direct strategic decision-making processes and drive prevention activities through data analysis. This will provide the SIU with a competitive market advantage and long-term sustainability,” Mothibi said.

The unit stated that the memoranda of understandings signed with the institutions are part of the SIU’s drive to halt corruption through a “whole of society approach”.

“These MoUs are also part of the SIU’s implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, in particular, the whole-of-society approach, which is an integrated approach to the fight against corruption and calls on all sectors to participate in the fight against corruption and encourages collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society as one of the fundamentals of the strategy.

“Through these collaboration agreements, the SIU seeks to ensure that its anti-corruption tools are advanced and enable the SIU to move towards the prevention of corruption. The SIU plans to publish sector data intelligence and use a prevention, advisory, and awareness capacity to advise stakeholders on systemic measures to proactively identify and prevent maladministration, fraud, and corruption,” the unit concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 10:55

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MPs to undergo induction

Location: News

MPs to undergo induction

Following their swearing in ceremony last month, new Members of Parliament in the seventh administration are set to undergo an induction programme that will get underway tomorrow.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Parliament said the induction programme will run from Tuesday until Friday at the Century City Conference Centre in the Western Cape.

“The induction will cover various topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, ethical standards for members, engaging with civil society, gender-responsive planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation, as well as c introduction to parliamentary structures and support,” said Parliament.

Members of Parliament were sworn in during the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024. Other Members of Parliament were sworn in at a later stage.

This followed the National and Provincial Elections of 29 May 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa was elected as President and head of government following the elections and since then, he was inaugurated at a ceremony held at the Union Buildings on 19 June 2024.

The President also announced his Cabinet for the seventh administration during an address to the nation on Sunday evening, comprising all members of the Government of National Unity.

READ | Meet SA's new cabinet

Meanwhile, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will, on Tuesday at 2pm, convene a plenary sitting at Parliament.

“Among the items on the agenda are the election of the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, Programming Whip, House Chairpersons, and the election of members to represent the NCOP at the Pan African Parliament, the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, the Judicial Services Commission, Members of the Magistrate Commission, Members that will serve as trustees of the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund, and PARMED Medical Aid Scheme Trustee Members,” said Parliament.

The National Assembly (NA) will also hold a plenary sitting on Tuesday at 2pm to revive the Appropriation Bill, elect House Chairpersons, and elect members to represent the NA at the Pan-African Parliament, Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, and the JSC.

The plenary sitting will take place at the Century City Conference Centre.

“The committee structures will be constituted in due course. Committees are deemed the engine of Parliament as they oversee and scrutinise the work of government by providing a platform for debate and ensuring accountability,” said Parliament. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 11:36

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‘Unprecedented’ Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves

Location: News

'Unprecedented' Government of National Unity to roll up its sleeves

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially announced his new cabinet and South Africa is now firmly into the seventh administration - led by what the President has termed an “unprecedented” Government of National Unity (GNU).

The President announced the members of cabinet on Sunday evening, about a month after the National and Provincial Elections were held on 29 May 2024.

“The incoming government will prioritise rapid, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and the creation of a more just society by tackling poverty and inequality,” President Ramaphosa assured the country, as he addressed the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

This year’s General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various  political leaders to work together to form a government, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.

Some 11 political formations have come together and signed a Statement of Intent to work together to form a GNU, reflective of the representatives from those parties.

“The establishment of the Government of National Unity in its current form is unprecedented in the history of our democracy. We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties.

“We have had to consider not only the immediate needs of the country. We have also had to consider the stability, effectiveness and durability of the government we are establishing,” he said.

WATCH | Cabinet announcement 

 

READ| Meet SA's new cabinet

Serving all South Africans

With Ministers and Deputy Ministers now coming from a plethora of parties, President Ramaphosa told the nation that those appointed to those positions will work to serve all South Africans and not just those who voted for them.

“These men and women we have appointed to the executive are drawn from all corners of our country. They reflect the diversity of our nation. They have a responsibility to work together to serve the people as a whole.

“None of the members of the National Executive has been appointed to serve the interests of a particular constituency, a particular party or a particular section of society,” he said.

Strengthening democracy

Turning to the length of time it has taken to form a cabinet, President Ramaphosa soothed concerned South Africans – pointing out that other countries have taken longer to walk the same path.

“[Many] people have pointed to the experiences of other countries that have a far longer history of democracy, where the formation of multi-party governments have sometimes taken several months.

“As a relatively young democracy, we should be proud that we have moved to establish a government comprised of eleven parties within such a short space of time.

“Through our discussions we have been able to build consensus on the tasks of government. We have shown that there are no problems that are too difficult or too intractable that they cannot be solved through dialogue,” he emphasised. 

National Dialogue

With the cabinet announced, a National Dialogue is expected to be convened by the incoming GNU and other formations in the “spirit of partnership and collaboration”.

“Through this National Dialogue, all parties, civil society groups, labour, business and other stakeholders will be invited to work together to address the critical challenges facing the nation.

“We call on all South Africans to participate in the National Dialogue and to give their support to this Government of National Unity as it begins its work.

“As the leaders of political parties, as Ministers and Deputy Ministers, as public representatives, we understand and accept the responsibility that we bear. We have all been called upon to serve the people of this country, and we will do so to the utmost of our ability,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Sun, 06/30/2024 - 23:22

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Governance experts appointed to lead intervention in eThekwini

Location: News

Governance experts appointed to lead intervention in eThekwini

Two governance experts have been appointed to lead an intervention in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. 

KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, says former eThekwini Municipality Manager, Dr Mike Sutcliffe, and former Director-General in the Presidency, Dr Cassius Lubisi, were appointed as governance experts during an Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting of the municipality, held on Thursday.

The intervention comes amid ongoing battles in the metro, including rampant crime, service delivery issues, and aging infrastructure.

The two have been appointed under Section 154 of the Constitution, which states that “The national government and provincial governments, by legislative and other measures, must support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to manage their own affairs, to exercise their powers and to perform their functions”.

Buthelezi said the department aims to restore eThekwini to its former status as the jewel in the crown of KZN. 

“This action by the provincial government underscores the commitment to clean governance and accelerated service delivery, as pronounced by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli,” Buthelezi said.

The strategic support under Section 154 will entail building a clean, effective, efficient responsive and accountable local government; implementation of findings of investigation reports; addressing non-compliance with terms and conditions, including poor spending on allocated grants for various projects; and strengthening partnerships between civil society, the business sector and other critical role-players - to restore public and investor confidence.

Buthelezi said the appointed team will provide monthly reports to the MEC and will be in operation for 12 months, starting from 1 July 2024.

The Executive Committee has commended the MEC for the intervention and committed to work together with the appointed team. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 06/28/2024 - 10:25

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