Farm Workers March in Rain and Wind to Call For Ban on Pesticides
They want an end to exports of harmful pesticides from Germany
Government
Thousands of Teaching Posts to Be Cut in the Western Cape
Schools are expected to receive their 2025 staff allocations on Friday
AG tables municipal audit outcomes
AG tables municipal audit outcomes
Auditor General (AG), Tsakani Maluleke, says the office of the AG remains committed to assisting municipalities to improve, following a reported regression of clean audits in the 2022/23 local government audit outcomes.
On Tuesday, Maluleke briefed the Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs on the consolidated general report on local government audit outcomes 2022/23.
Outcomes of the municipalities (including those finalised after 31 March 2024) are as follows:
• 34 clean audits
• 110 unqualified with findings
• 90 qualified with findings
• 6 adverse findings
• 14 disclaimed with findings
• 3 outstanding audits
In a media statement following the briefing, it was revealed that only 34 of South Africa’s 257 Metropolitan, District and Local Municipalities received clean audit outcomes.
“While 45 municipalities have improved their audit outcomes since 2020-21 [which was the last year of the previous administration’s term], 36 have regressed,” Maluleke said.
The AG explained that municipalities with clean audits display sound financial management practices.
“They generally manage projects well so that deficiencies are identified and rectified promptly and so that timelines, budgets and quality standards are adhered to.
“The well-functioning control environment and good systems present at these municipalities form a solid foundation from which councils can prioritise further improving the performance and service delivery of their municipalities,” Maluleke said.
Direct impact
The AG lamented that poor financial stability and controls have a direct impact on the lives of communities living in municipalities.
“Wasted money and resources means reduced funding for service delivery priorities and, eventually, a greater burden on taxpayers. The lack of credible reporting on performance and finances weakens not only municipal accountability processes, but also the council’s ability to assess the municipality’s performance or to make decisions in response to underachievement.
“These continuing failures in the most critical part of municipal operations are not receiving the necessary attention from the elected leadership,” she said.
Pressing further, Maluleke implored council leaderships to take action.
“Service delivery improvements and the responsible use of the limited funds available will only be enabled when municipalities are capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive, and when they deliver on their mandates.
“Municipal leadership, councils and mayors play a critical role in setting the tone for ethical behaviour, good governance and accountability; and in creating a culture that fosters trust and confidence in local government,” the AG said.
Pockets of improvement
There was a reported improvement in the timely submission of financial statements by municipalities during the 2022/23 financial year.
The number of municipalities submitting on time improved from some 81% in 2020/21 to 94% in 2022/23.
“The improvements were due to accounting officers responding positively to our material irregularity notifications on this matter as well as provincial government supporting municipalities to act on commitments made to submit financial statements on time.
“Financial statements again being submitted late, or not at all, were the main reason for us not completing the 2022-23 audits of 10 municipalities by 31 March 2024. Seven of these audits have since been finalised,” Maluleke noted.
Furthermore, fewer municipalities received disclaimed audit opinions.
“Over the administrative term, 18 municipalities, mostly in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and North West, have moved out of this category. Fourteen municipalities received disclaimed opinions in 2022-23, including two municipalities whose audits were finalised after 31 March 2024, which was the cut-off date for this report.
“The AG commended the support provided by the provincial government to municipalities in the 6th administration and called for it to be sustained in the 7th administration as this support demonstrated positive signs of improvement,” the AG’s office said in a statement.
Maluleke invited municipalities to take up the assistance offered by her office to assist municipalities.
“We remain committed to partnering with and supporting the local government accountability ecosystem through our audits, the use of our expanded powers as granted by the Public Audit Act amendments, and the many initiatives that we have implemented to assist and guide all role players,” she concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 12:01
1465 views
Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile
Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile
Through the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, government is consolidating resources to end extortion and ensure that communities conduct business without fear or intimidation.
“We are also aware of the persistent issues of high levels of extortion crimes, particularly in Mthatha, Eastern Cape,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Eastern Cape town of Mthatha is battling extortion crime by syndicates, which have led to at least one school and several businesses shutting down, according to reports.
Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He told the Members of the NCOP that the Government of National Unity (GNU), has adopted three priorities, including inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
“We have adopted the above three priorities because whilst we have made significant progress over the 30 years in reducing poverty and inequality, we remain faced with the challenges of a slow-growing economy, high unemployment and poverty rate, high incidence of crime, corruption and lawlessness, and a highly fractured society.”
Mashatile said the seventh administration has decided to invest in the building of a capable, developmental State.
“A developmental State, in our context, is a State that will redirect resources towards job creation and ensure that people have access to asset ownership, economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and other basic services.”
More importantly, in a quest for a developmental State, the Deputy President mentioned that government will continue to invest in building safer communities.
“Building safer communities is not only a police responsibility, but it is a shared responsibility between the police, communities and all sectors of our society.”
He has since urged citizens to hold hands with law enforcement agencies to combat crime in communities.
The planning session is being held under the theme: ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:53
418 views
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will soon initiate a programme to clean cities and recognise those that exceed expectations in making their towns sustainable and safe.
The country’s second-in-command said that cleaner cities contribute towards attracting investors.
“In this regard, as leaders in our respective towns, we must launch a competition of the cleanest towns,” he said on Tuesday.
Deputy President Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He said his Office will collaborate with the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister and South African Local Government Association (Salga) to form a committee that will conduct an annual assessment of the cleanliness of cities and present awards.
“This campaign has the potential of ensuring that the private sector and communities in partnership with the government ensure that our cities are clean and safe.
“Honourable Members, in realising the vision of building a developmental, capable, and ethical State, we will vigorously implement the plan to professionalise the public service, and we will do so by investing in the capacity of the National School of Government.”
Modernising the State
Equally, he said, government must continue to invest in the modernisation of the State and government by introducing innovative solutions across government particularly.
“The whole world is going digital in many respects and as South Africa, we must not be left behind.”
Over the last 30 years, government has adopted progressive policies that the seventh administration is going to pay special attention to the speed of execution.
The Deputy President announced plans to strengthen coordination by refocusing the Presidency as the centre of government, bringing together critical government departments such as CoGTA and the National Treasury.
“We intend to align planning and budgeting as part of implementing the District Development Model (DDM) premised on One Plan-One Vision and this we will do to achieve maximum results in building a better life for all.”
The planning session is being held under the theme ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in program planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:04
331 views
Public-private partnership to tackle water crisis – Mashatile
Public-private partnership to tackle water crisis - Mashatile
Government is introducing a public-private partnership (PPP) model in water supply, working with National Treasury and the Department of Water and Sanitation.
According to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, this initiative aims to resolve the potential water crisis, similar to how it has successfully addressed the energy and load shedding crisis.
“We need to act before there is a crisis,” said Deputy President Mashatile on Tuesday.
Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He informed Members of the NCOP that, through the District Development Model (DDM) in Waterberg, Limpopo, and with private sector involvement, government is implementing much-needed interventions to create opportunities for the community.
“In eThekwini, we have been resolving the water crisis to the extent that we are beginning to see much-needed changes in the functioning of the municipality."
Together with the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mashatile said they will be visiting Giyani to assess the state of progress in ensuring that people have water in that part of the province.
“This is going to be the modus operandi of the seventh administration because we want to ensure that we do not have a water crisis in the country. We need to go to these communities and resolve the problems.”
However, the Deputy President is of the view that the success of the DDM lies in the speed of execution as a modus operandi, which should be adopted across the three spheres of government.
“We need to ensure that from the point of view of the Executive, we are entrenching the discipline of getting things done. In this regard, we are working on measures that will ensure the introduction of legislation by the Executive in Parliament is done timeously. Equally, we are ensuring that when Bills are introduced in the National Assembly, they must follow all the compliance processes so that the constitutionality of the proposed legislation is not compromised.”
The Deputy President believes this is an important task to avoid litigation.
“Honourable Members, as we gather here today, we must ensure that we sharpen and crystallise a common understanding of the three overarching policy priorities of the seventh administration.”
The planning session is being held under the theme: "Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament".
Parliament’s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:13
193 views
Review on metros’ performance in housing delivery
Review on metros' performance in housing delivery
The Department of Human Settlements has started a series of engagements to review the performance of housing delivery in all metropolitan municipalities in the country.
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said the department was concerned about the performance of the metros, with leadership and governance instability being a major factor in the performance of human settlements delivery.
Kubayi said the department had therefore started a process of meeting all metros to assess performance and determine the interventions necessary to expedite delivery.
“Our first engagement was with the Gauteng Metros last week and it was noted that although improvements have been visible with some metros, there is a need for intervention in the City of Ekurhuleni.
“We intervened in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan by establishing a War Room to complement the technical capacity in the city. We have seen the significant improvements with the Nelson Mandela Bay due to the intervention of the War Room,” Kubayi said.
She said the City of Ekurhuleni will be afforded a similar intervention, to ensure acceleration of service delivery and respond to the needs of the people of Ekurhuleni.
“We will continue these engagements with eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo City and the City of Cape Town in the next few weeks, and where necessary, we will provide the appropriate interventions for the metros,” Kubayi said.
Verification of housing subsidy beneficiaries
Meanwhile, Kubayi said the department is considering appointing a team of legal experts with expertise in large forensic investigation, forensic audit, and data analysis to deal with the injustices in the housing subsidy sector.
The Minister said the department has noted concerns raised by the public regarding housing subsidies provided by government through Breaking New Ground (BNG).
Kubayi said some BNGs were allocated to people who are not rightful beneficiaries, either because the beneficiary list was manipulated or because of syndicates operating across the country who illegally take housing units from rightful owners and sell them to non-deserving citizens.
“There are those that were sold BNG houses within a period of eight years in contravention of Section 10A of the Housing Act, that BNGs are occupied by foreign nationals with no information as to what led to that situation.
“The team is expected to provide a report that will provide clarity on the ownership of the houses, the occupants and where necessary initiate steps for legal action so that corrective measures are taken,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:20
90 views
Alarming Auditor-General Report on Municipalities
Only 34 out of 257 municipalities receive clean audits for 2022/23
Procuring for a better SA
Procuring for a better SA
The recently signed Public Procurement Act is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays and curb corruption while also ensuring that taxpayer money is used responsibly.
“It is a good move for many reasons,” says Kamogelo Mampane, the Executive Chairman of the Supply Chain Council (SCC).
President Cyril Ramaphosa assented the act that aims to create a single framework that regulates public procurement, in July.
“It is a consolidation of all guidelines, practice notes and procurement guidelines that were found in other regulations into one legislative framework. The Procurement Act introduces standardised procedures that streamline the procurement process, making it more efficient and transparent. This will significantly reduce bureaucratic delays and curb corruption, ensuring that taxpayer money is used responsibly and effectively,” Mampane told SAnews.
The SCC is a non-profit association that was set-up in 2010 to provide quality and professional supply chain services to organisations across the globe. The association helps organisations to make improvements in supply chain processes.
The act also complies with the Constitution’s Section 217 that states that the contracting of goods and services by organs of state in all spheres of government must occur in accordance with a system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective, among others.
According to the Presidency, the act also responds to the acknowledgement that legislation regulating procurement by organs of state is fragmented and constrains the justified advancement of persons or categories of persons who could provide goods or services.
Mampane said the act also creates clarity on what is legal, possible and creates many possible options for state organs to drive economic transformation while also forming a basis for investments in technology and best sourcing practices.
Recently, National Treasury indicated that the provisions of the act are not in force yet and that the President will bring the provisions of the Act into operation through a new proclamation in the government gazette.
The Public Procurement Act, 2024 (Act No. 28 of 2024) was approved by the President and published as an Act in the Government Gazette on 23 July 2024.
According to Treasury, Section 69 of the Act enables the President to bring the provisions into operation on different dates (phased approach) and to determine different dates for different categories of procuring institutions such as national and provincial departments, national and provincial public entities and municipalities and municipal entities.
Public Procurement Tribunal
Chapter 6 of the Act makes provision for a dispute resolution mechanism and a Public Procurement Tribunal to review decisions taken by procurement institutions.
Asked about his thoughts on the tribunal, Mampane said that small businesses often lack the resources to engage in prolonged legal battles.
“The tribunal offers a more accessible and cost-effective platform for resolving disputes, ensuring that their grievances are heard and addressed promptly. By upholding transparent procurement practices, the tribunal also assists small businesses to understand the criteria and processes used in awarding contracts.”
He added that this clarity can help small business to better prepare and compete for future opportunities.
“We foresee a tribunal receiving a huge number of applications in the beginning as small businesses seek a hearing.”
“The tribunal will also hold procurement officials accountable for their actions, encouraging them to adhere to the Act and code of conduct. This can lead to more diligent and conscientious behaviour in the execution of their duties.
“It is our view public procurement officials did not have a place to go if they felt threatened by people in authority, politicians, or suppliers. The tribunal will be a place to go as an independent body that can listen to their challenges,” he explained.
Asked about what type of individuals must sit on the tribunal, Mampane said this institution must be chaired by a retired judge supported by individuals with many years of experience in public procurement. This also includes someone who has experience in contract management and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) to ensure the consistency of the application of the rules.
According to the Act, a member of the Tribunal holds office for a period of five years, or the shorter period that the Minister of finance determines.
Additionally, a member of the Tribunal may be re-appointed at the expiry of a term for a further term not exceeding three years.
Transformation
In the year that marks 30 years of freedom and democracy in South Africa, the act is cognisant of the need to continue to foster economic transformation.
The act contains set asides for designated groups like women and persons living with disabilities who have historically been disadvantaged.
According to the chairman, this inclusive approach is expected to level the playing field and provide equal opportunities for all businesses to compete and thrive.
“Our economy is not growing, unemployment remains a challenge, youth unemployment is an indication of a non-productive economy. In any developing country like South Africa, SMMEs [small, medium, and micro-enterprises] play a crucial role in developing the economy, creating jobs and reindustrialisation. The protection and advancement of designated groups is crucial in creating sustainable projects in our communities.”
He added that the setting aside of opportunities for the productive sector of the economy will encourage innovation and investment by local and international organisations.
“A key aim of the bill is to drive economic transformation by mandating that a substantial portion of procurement contracts be awarded to historically disadvantaged individuals and SMMEs, the bill promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity. This is a major win for economic empowerment and growth.”
In an earlier media release, the SCC said a highlight of the act is its strong support for local production and manufacturing.
“The law stipulates that government entities prioritise locally produced goods and services in their procurement decisions. This provision aims to boost local industries, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth within the country.
“Supply chain professionals will need to cultivate robust relationships with local suppliers, ensuring that the procurement of locally manufactured products meets quality and cost-efficiency standards,” it said.
Reducing bureaucracy
Asked about whether the act will reduce government bureaucracy, Mampane said the Act provides a clear framework for efficient, fair and sustainable development for the more than 700 state organs, government departments and municipalities.
“The implementation of electronic procurement platforms to facilitate online submission and processing of bids, reducing paperwork and speeding up the procurement cycle will reduce bureaucracy of public procurement.
“Some processes were completely unnecessary e.g. having to go to National Treasury to ask for permission for minor deviations. The need to submit manual reports to National Treasury even though some were hardly ever used or perused by National Treasury, was also onerous.”
Concerns
Chapter 6 of the Act which speaks to dispute resolution, also refers to the Stand Still Process which speaks to the “prohibition on concluding contract during reconsideration or review proceedings”.
According to the process, if a procurement process is subject to a reconsideration in accordance with section 37, a procuring institution may not conclude a contract with the successful bidder within 10 days after completion of the reconsideration or review process.
Section 37 (Reconsideration by procuring institution) of the Act states that a bidder may submit an application for reconsideration to the procuring institution if that bidder is not satisfied with a decision to award a bid by that institution.
Mampane expressed concern over the process saying that in its current form, the clause creates “an automatic stand still, as it requires an organ of state not to conclude a contract with the successful bidder prior to completion of the review process by a Tribunal.”
“Projects will be stopped even if the request is frivolous and has no basis. The prima facie rule is ignored by this clause. We are extremely concerned that this will create inefficiencies in the process,” he said.
Taking supply chain forward
Asked about what the act means for the supply chain sector as a whole, Mampane is of the view that the act elevates the profession.
“This is a boost to the supply chain professionalising agenda as it elevates the profession to its right full place, i.e. a strategic function to assist government in achieving their social and economic objectives.
“Supply chain professionals must be at the forefront of driving this change, leveraging their expertise to assist their organisations in delivering their strategic objectives. Supply Chain professionals must build on this foundation that is created by this Act and build strong cases for SMME development, increase spend on locally produced products and deliver tangible value to their organisations and communities,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:58
10 views
What Is a Managed Service Provider?
SevenC, a top managed service provider in South Africa, delves into the critical responsibilities and roles of MSPs in the region, highlighting their importance in optimising IT solutions for diverse businesses. Imagine a world where your business operations run smoothly, your IT systems are always up-to-date, and technical hiccups are a thing of the past. …
Key law on prisons watchdog stuck in the pipeline
Judicial Inspectorate of prisons is still accountable to the very department over which it is meant to have oversight, says lawyer
Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell
Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed great shock and sadness at the passing of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Professor Brian O’Connell.
O’Connell passed away on Sunday at the age of 77.
The Minister has remembered O’Connell as an “illustrious” educationist and higher education leader who played a seminal role in basic and higher education following the advent of democracy in South Africa.
“The roots of his passion for social justice, equality and freedom must have been planted during his experiences as a student activist at UWC in the mid-1960s and resonated throughout his extraordinary life,” Nzimande said.
In higher education, the department said O’Connell led the university from 2001 until 2014, a period marked by difficult challenges of financial distress and the “merger” process.
However, under his leadership, the department believes UWC faced up to both challenges with great skill.
The late Professor has also been recognised for guiding UWC through difficult times, transforming it into one of the few historically Black universities in South Africa to successfully overcome its history of marginalisation and stagnation.
“At the core of his transformational leadership role was his stunning success in deliberately positioning UWC to become one of South Africa’s leading teaching and research universities.
“He worked tirelessly to mobilise resources from both South Africa and abroad to finance an ambitious Science Building project at a time of decline in fiscal support for infrastructure at universities.”
For his achievements in education, O’Connell was awarded the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Lifetime Achievement Award in September 2017.
Nzimande further noted that “Professor O’Connell was without doubt a visionary and charismatic figure in higher education with an unwavering commitment to an agenda promoting progressive education as a public good, and for equality and social justice”.
According to the UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, O’Connell took the helm at a time when the university was facing the aftermath of staff retrenchments, financial vulnerability, the significant loss of academic leadership, evolving enrolment trends, and a despondent campus community.
“In his inaugural address in 2002, O’Connell argued that a university hardly deserves the name if it does not provide a space to grow in hope, to create and share knowledge, and to inform the agency.
“Through this approach, he emphasised the strength of using UWC’s distinctive academic role to rebuild the institution as an inspirational community of hope, to be a premier site of knowledge production, and to draw on the agency of its people to use and produce knowledge as agents of change,” Pretorius recalled.
Under O’Connell’s leadership, the university cemented trusted relationships with several universities internationally.
“These networks served as a strong catalytic force which laid the foundation for new partnerships and alliances.”
He mentioned that O’Connell’s legacy is one of passionate conviction, intellectual clarity and engaged leadership.
“As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he has had on our university and our society,” Pretorius added.
Among the many honorary doctorates Professor received, he was also bestowed the title Commander of the Order of Leopold II from the Belgian government for his contribution to the global tertiary institution sector.
“Professor O’Connell will be remembered in different ways by individuals he touched, but I have no doubt they will all remember his humility – from picking up litter on campus when he was the Rector, to setting an example for the campus community, or the simple gesture of remembering staff member’s names – even, at times, their families.
“He was warm, affable and always dignified in immensely pressurised and challenging situations.”
Both Nzimande and Pretorius extended their heartfelt condolences to the O’Connell family including his wife Judith and children, Amanda-Leigh and Bryan. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:39
75 views
Addressing Debt Challenges in State-Owned Enterprises
In a concerted effort to tackle the growing challenges of State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) debt in Africa, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) hosted a high-level workshop in Pretoria from 21 to 23 August 2024. The event brought together finance policymakers, industry experts, and international organizations to share best practices and develop strategic solutions for effective SOE debt management across the continent.
The workshop brought together officials from the Ministries of Finance of Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia, along with representatives from UNDP, the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development, and major state-owned entities. The focus was on enhancing governance frameworks, improving financial oversight, and exploring privatization options.
Participants discussed the critical role of SOEs in driving national development, acknowledging that while these entities have the potential to bolster economic growth and address market deficiencies, they also pose significant risks to government finances. The workshop highlighted that poorly managed SOEs can lead to severe financial burdens, potentially destabilizing national budgets and contributing to the deterioration of sovereign credit ratings.
“In many African countries, SOEs play a vital socio-economic role. This workshop comes at a critical time for Africa's development, with both SOE and government finances under pressure amid cascading crises and multiple shocks,” said Zuzana Schwidrowski, Director of the Macroeconomics, Finance, and Governance Division (MFGD) at ECA, in her opening remarks.
Ms Schwidrowski noted that “critical public services tend to deteriorate alongside SOEs' financial difficulties, leading to a downward spiral of weakened service delivery and growth.” That is why ECA organized this capacity-building workshop “to develop practical solutions and options for Africa,” she added.
The discussions also underscored the importance of corporate governance, risk management, and internal oversight as drivers of reform. Participants shared successful approaches to SOE debt management and identified key barriers, including challenges related to mandate delivery and the intricate links between sovereign and SOE credit ratings.
Lee Everts, Chief of the Macroeconomic Analysis Section in MFGD, emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to address the rising SOE debt. “Financial restructuring, governance and operational improvements, and in some cases, privatization or asset sales, are essential steps to mitigate the risks posed by SOE debt,” she said.
The workshop, organized by ECA's Macroeconomics, Finance, and Governance Division in collaboration with its Sub-Regional Office for Southern Africa, is part of a broader series of capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening public debt management across Africa. ECA remains committed to supporting African nations in implementing innovative and robust solutions to the persistent challenges posed by SOE debt and related government liabilities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Can You Spell the Word That Decided This Joburg Spelling Bee Competition?
Dozens of learners from inner-city schools competed in the 2nd Windybrow Arts Centre Spelling Bee competition
Workshop raises awareness on importance of environmental conservation
Workshop raises awareness on importance of environmental conservation
The Department of Water and Sanitation has held a workshop to raise awareness about the impact of human activities on water resources and the environment.
The 6th Citizen Science awareness workshop was held recently in Gauteng’s Tembisa, in partnership with the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and Nature Speaks.
Citizen Science is a powerful tool that harnesses the knowledge and participation of local communities in scientific research and environmental monitoring.
The session was held with an intention to educate and engage local traditional healers on the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable water resource management.
Among the key objectives of the workshop was to provide traditional healers with training on how to identify sources of pollution in their local areas [as] they often perform rituals and ceremonies in natural spaces, including rivers, making them particularly vulnerable to the impacts of pollution and environmental degradation.
Citizen Science national coordinator, Noloyiso Mbiza, highlighted the significance of the workshop in empowering traditional healers to better understand and protect their natural surroundings.
“By involving traditional healers, who often interact closely with natural ecosystems, the workshop aimed to raise awareness about the impact of human activities on water resources and the environment,” Mbiza said.
Mbiza, who is also a traditional healer, emphasised the role of traditional healers as custodians of traditional knowledge and practices, and the importance of integrating this knowledge with modern environmental conservation efforts.
“We also provide them with the tools to investigate pollution in their catchment areas, so they can understand where the pollutants are coming from. This is important because it directly affects them, given that they spend about 95% of their time in the affected environment.
“By equipping traditional healers with the skills to recognise and address environmental threats, the workshop aimed to promote sustainable practices that minimise harm to water resources and ecosystems,” Mbiza said.
She added that the collaborative efforts underscore the importance of partnerships in promoting environmental sustainability and community engagement.
By bringing together government agencies, research institutions, and local community organisations, the workshop facilitated dialogue, knowledge exchange, and capacity building among traditional healers and environmental stakeholders.
In addition, traditional healers, who attended the workshop, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn and engage with government and environmental organisations.
They also highlighted the importance of inclusive and community-driven approaches to environmental awareness and conservation.
Building on the success of the 6th Citizen Science awareness workshop, the next workshop will be held in Tembisa on 30 August 2024, and will be open to all members of the local community, including residents interested in learning more about citizen science, environmental conservation, and sustainable water management practices. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 10:17
470 views
Interventions to make housing affordable
Interventions to make housing affordable
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says the department is forging ahead to implement several interventions to redress the unaffordability of houses for the missing middle.
Announcing government plans and developments in the human settlements sector at a media briefing held in Pretoria on Monday, Kubayi said the department has recognised that the gap market or missing middle continues to face challenges in accessing adequate affordable housing.
“These are the households earning between R3 501 and R22 000 per month, who neither qualify for mortgage finance nor fully subsidised houses,” Kubayi said.
WATCH | Minister Kubayi briefs media
Kubayi said the interventions include First Home Finance, social housing and the Rapid Land Release Programme to encourage people to build for themselves.
Government will also develop a policy to encourage employers to provide housing to their employees and housing access for government employees through the Government Employees Housing Scheme. Government will also strengthen partnerships with stakeholders to collaboratively deliver housing solutions.
Progress
The Minister highlighted that since April 2023, First Home Finance (FHF) has been providing grants for non-mortgage products, and the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC) has seen a significant increase in applications from individuals who want government assistance to buy their first properties through FHF.
“Since April 2024, the NHFC has approved about 1 151 of the non-mortgage subsidies at a value close to R160 million. The majority of these are from KwaZulu-Natal (283), Gauteng (160) and Limpopo (263),” Kubayi said.
Kubayi added that the NHFC action plan has identified potential partners who can partner with the corporation as subsidy origination and distribution channels to support the non-mortgage housing programme. This has also been warmly welcomed by traditional authorities, mainly in the Free State, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She said the department will soon launch its first rural First Home Finance housing project at Inanda, north of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Partnerships
“Over the next five years, the NHFC will also intensify its working relationships with traditional leaders to increase the delivery of affordable housing in rural areas. Another category of partners in the action plan is of building merchants and employers keen on assisting their employees to access adequate housing.
“The recently unveiled strategic partnership between the NHFC with Cashbuild and Capitec for the Zakhelikhaya initiative is a great step towards strengthening partnerships with this category. Cashbuild formulated this programme so that its staff and clients could build their own homes using the First Home Finance grant and a purpose loan from Capitec,” Kubayi highlighted.
By partnering with NHFC, the minister said the programme has been widened to include the broader Cashbuild clientele that qualifies for the subsidy.
She explained that the NHFC and Cashbuild will collaborate in assisting Zakhelikhaya customers to apply for and access First Home Finance subsidies.
“Capitec has partnered with Cashbuild to provide purpose loans to the Zakhelikhaya Project, meaning that the grant will get to its intended beneficiaries a lot quicker than has been the case with just the mortgage products.
“The partnership will also facilitate payment of subsidies to assist Zakhelikhaya clients to buy material and be assisted to build their homes.”
Transfer of old government property
The Minister and Members of the Executive Council (MINMEC) responsible for Human Settlements took a decision earlier this year, to have the old government housing stock to be given back to municipalities or to the people who have been staying there for a long time, by 31 March 2025.
Kubayi said people who have been occupying these houses for more than 20 years will be given the preference to take ownership.
She said all provinces have commenced their work to ensure that they meet the deadline of 31 March 2025.
“All provinces have met municipalities to agree on the transfer of properties to beneficiaries and devolution of vacant land to municipalities. Provinces will continue to engage individual beneficiaries to conclude transfer processes, and we will be monitoring the progress,” Kubayi said.
Once completed, the transfer will economically empower beneficiaries who mostly fall within the gap market. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 15:02
424 views
SA-China State Visit to focus on strengthening economic relations
SA-China State Visit to focus on strengthening economic relations
With China being South Africa’s largest trading partner, the upcoming State Visit to the People’s Republic of China by President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to fortify the economic relationship between the two countries.
In 2023, South Africa’s bilateral trade reached $34 billion, with exports totalling $12 billion and imports at $22 billion.
“China’s substantial contribution to our investment drive has made it the largest source of foreign direct investment for South Africa. We anticipate concluding several important agreements during this State Visit, including a Framework Agreement on Development Cooperation, addressing the trade balance, and expanding market access,” spokesperson for the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Chrispin Phiri, said on Monday in Pretoria.
WATCH |
Phiri said these agreements will strengthen South Africa’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China and elevate regional and multilateral cooperation to support global peace and security.
The President will travel of China from 2 - 5 September 2024 to further strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries.
“This visit is a testament to the robust relations between our two nations, built on mutual respect and benefit. It follows President Xi Jinping’s fourth State Visit to South Africa, further strengthening our ties.
“The primary focus of this visit will be to fortify our economic relationship. South Africa’s largest trading partner, China, has played a pivotal role in our economy.
“Our relations with China are central to realising our developmental agenda and efforts to implement the National Development Plan. This visit provides an opportunity to review progress on existing trade and cooperation, and to expedite and finalise new areas of collaboration,” he said.
While in China, the President will lead the South African delegation to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing from 4 to 5 September 2024.
The Summit, themed, 'Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future', will further South Africa’s cooperation under the Belt-and-Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative (“Three Initiatives”).
SA-Japan developments
Meanwhile, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola successfully concluded his working visit to Japan, which coincided with the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting on 24-25 August 2024 in Tokyo.
Launched in 1993, TICAD is the first international developmental partnership with Africa. It advocates for Africa’s development agenda and strengthens economic cooperation between Africa and Japan.
The Minister led South Africa’s delegation at the Ministerial Meeting, held under the theme, ‘Realising a Sustainable Future'.
The Government of Japan convened this significant gathering in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the Special Adviser on Africa (UNOSAA), the World Bank, and the African Union (AU) Commission.
“The Minister’s visit to Japan coincided with Toyota’s announcement of a strategic investment of R 1.2 billion in the South African automotive industry and our first consignment of avocados to Japan. This marks a significant moment for our agricultural sector in the East Asia market.
“These important economic developments will go a long way to drive faster industrialisation, job creation, and transformation implementation. The Minister reiterated that South Africa enjoys a significant relationship with Japan, underpinned by a fair economic partnership that contributes significantly to our nation’s economic development and people-to-people relations,” Phiri said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 15:07
382 views
Benefits of just energy transition must be shared equally
Benefits of just energy transition must be shared equally
As South Africa transitions towards a low carbon economy, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, says the benefits of energy renewable projects should be shared equitably with communities.
Addressing the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4All) in Pretoria, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of addressing potential job losses in the coal sector.
South Africa’s plans for the just energy transition will focus on the transition of the energy sector, as it navigates the shift away from coal towards cleaner sources of energy.
“It is essential that we approach this transition with humanity, providing support, training, and creating new opportunities within the renewable energy sector. A holistic approach is required, one that embraces clear and comprehensive national renewable energy policies sets defined targets and provides a roadmap for the transition.
“Community participation and ownership in renewable energy projects must be a cornerstone of this policy, ensuring that the benefits of this transition are shared equitably,” Singh said on Monday.
While necessary, he said the just energy transition does come with its set of challenges.
“Acknowledging our current economic growth's stagnation, the reliance on coal for energy, and the coal industry's role as a significant employment sector, we understand the complexities involved.
“Moreover, the challenge of making renewable energy technologies affordable and accessible cannot be overlooked. We need innovative financing mechanisms to ensure that clean energy solutions are within reach for all South Africans, especially those in low-income communities.
“As we chart our course forward, it is clear that no single solution can address the multifaceted challenges we face,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said for South Africa to truly succeed, it needs more than just policies and roadmaps.
“…We need action and commitment from every sector of our society. From all spheres of government to the private sector, from civil society to every citizen, we must unite in our efforts towards a sustainable future. Now is the time for us to harness the incredible potential of renewable energy, to innovate, to build, and to grow together.
“Therefore, our call to action as a responsible, interdependent, and interrelated government is not just to listen but to participate actively in this transition. Let us collaborate, innovate, and implement the solutions that will power our nation forward.
“Let us build a future that aligns with our environmental, economic, and social imperatives. A future where sustainable energy drives our progress, where no one is left behind, and where we stand as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of global challenges,” Singh said.
He stressed that local government is at the coal face of the country’s efforts, as this is where policy legislation and regulation turn into action.
“We must be focusing on a back-to-basics approach, getting the basics right with respect to our daily deliverables. More than half of the battle will be won if every local sphere of government gets the basics right. Innovation and consistently good service delivery are what will carry the day,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said electricity is the backbone of progress, an enabler that unlocks industrial growth, drives the economy, and promotes inclusivity.
“Yet, the sustainability of our progress hinges on our ability to shift towards clean energy. The spectres of poverty, inequality and unemployment cannot be exorcised without robust GDP [gross domestic product] growth, which in turn demands a stable and sufficient energy supply.
“However, our journey is compounded by the environmental cost of our past reliance on coal. This has left us with a legacy of environmental degradation and health issues, making our commitment to transitioning to renewable energy sources crucial for our environment and the well-being of our communities,” Singh said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 14:30
27 views
Government activities for the week 26 – 30 August 2024
Government activities for the week 26 - 30 August 2024
On Monday, 26 August, Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi briefs media on plans to assist the struggling gap market to access affordable housing at Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre.
Also on Monday, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Professor Blade Nzimande will open the 7th BIO Africa Convention.
On Tuesday, 27 August, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe will hold a media briefing to provide details of the damage caused by the recent veld fires in the province.
On Wednesday, 28 August, there are no confirmed events.
Thursday, 29 August, is the start of National Arbor Week.
On Friday, 30 August, there are no confirmed events.
Janine
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:40
153 views
Municipalities must be at “driving seat” of clean energy
Municipalities must be at "driving seat" of clean energy
Municipalities are at the centre of government’s efforts to move towards clean energy and fulfil the country’s commitment to global climate change.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was addressing the opening ceremony of the Municipal Just Energy Transition (JET) Conference held in Johannesburg on Monday.
The President highlighted that South Africa’s 257 metropolitan, district and local municipalities “own and operate approximately half of South Africa’s electricity distribution grid and facilitate universal access to electricity”.
“One hundred and sixty five municipalities are electricity service providers. Through the Integrated National Electrification Programme grant, municipalities are responsible for addressing the electrification backlog.
“Municipalities therefore need to be in the driving seat when it comes to providing clean, affordable energy to communities, businesses and industry,” the President highlighted.
WATCH |
In this regard, South Africa’s Cabinet approved the JET Investment Plan, which has a dedicated municipal portfolio roadmap with three areas of focus.
These are:
- Providing access to affordable clean electricity;
- Sustainable financing for electricity infrastructure, and
- Strengthening the capacity of municipalities to manage the transition.
On the first area of focus, the President said the recent promulgation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment “paves the way for a new, competitive electricity market.
“The reforms contained in the law must help to speed up decarbonisation. But more than that, they must result in a better deal for households and businesses.
“The national climate change effort must not come at a higher cost for electricity users. South African households, like many around the world, are battling with the rising cost of living, including the cost of energy.
“We must therefore ensure that the energy transition does not contribute to energy poverty. It must not deepen inequality,” President Ramaphosa insisted.
In terms of sustainable financing for electricity infrastructure, he said municipal grid system needs to be upgraded, modernised and extended.
“The energy generation of the future requires systems that are fundamentally different in terms of design, capability and operation.
“Smart metering will have to accommodate the increased penetration of renewable energy at different scales. It will need to facilitate wheeling and feed-in by small-scale embedded generation.
“Massive investment is needed to ensure optimal grid control, safety and energy storage. This investment will need to draw on both public and private sources of capital,” he said.
Turning to how the capacity of municipalities can be strengthened, President Ramaphosa said extensive training and upskilling of officials will be the order of the day.
“New systems will be required to identify human resource, technical capacity and other needs within municipalities, and plan and budget accordingly.
“Municipalities will need to adopt best practice when it comes to the design and implementation of programmes and projects,” he said.
The President told conference delegates that the country’s drive towards a lower carbon intensive economy does not only reside with government.
“A just energy transition is about promoting economic diversification, transformation and industrialisation in the renewable energy sector that empowers workers, marginalised communities and black businesses.
“The achievement of defined just energy transition outcomes at a municipal level requires supportive policies and leadership, good governance and a coordinated effort among all relevant institutions.
“As government, business, labour and civil society, let us deepen our collaboration to achieve an energy future that is secure and sustainable for all,” President Ramaphosa said.
READ | SA committed to meeting climate change undertakings
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:13
220 views
Gautrain, PRASA collaborate to transport rugby fans
Gautrain, PRASA collaborate to transport rugby fans
In an effort to showcase Gauteng’s integrated urban transport, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency (Gautrain) have teamed up to transport fans to this weekend’s Springboks and All Blacks test match.
“We are showcasing the fact that here in Gauteng, commuters can walk or take a bus or taxi to a PRASA or Gautrain Station, and board a train to get to the Emirates Park Stadium, via Ellis Park Train Station,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Sunday.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain and ride to Park Station, cross over to the revamped PRASA Park Station Mall, grab something to eat at any one of the food outlets, and then board the train to the game on Saturday, 31 August 2024.
“The train ride from Park Station in the Johannesburg CBD [central business district] to Ellis Park Station is three minutes. What we are doing for the game is to illustrate how different elements of public transport can and should work together,” Creecy said.
PRASA and the Gautrain Management Agency, working together with the City of Johannesburg and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium, decided to throw their weight behind this international event to ensure a hassle-free, safe transport solution for the fans who want to use the train.
The event is also supported by the Gauteng Provincial Government, as the host province.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain at any of the seven stations between Hatfield and Park Stations (Hatfield, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, Sandton and Rosebank) or any of the five stations between OR Tambo International Airport and Park Stations (OR Tambo, Rhodesfield, Marlboro, Sandton, Rosebank) – of course changing trains at Sandton Station.
Emphasising the critical role that rail plays in the daily lives of South Africans, the Minister said the Department of Transport will forge closer links between provinces and municipalities to ensure that people can go to work or school, or a rugby or football match, using public transport.
“Our government, across the national, provincial and local spheres, must work together to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transport systems which will assist in growing our country’s economy and which is ultimately for the benefit of our citizens.
“The proposed expansion of the Gautrain network, further north and south, is a clear example of our intention to further integrate our public transport system to achieve sustainable cities that work for our people,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:36
84 views
Social Development Scandal: Last Three Suspended Officials Return to Work
They were suspended during the term of MEC Mbali Hlophe when the department was in chaos
Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government
Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government
Government is committed to improving the lives of residents of the City of Ekurhuleni Municipality through interventions including “expanded support for small businesses and intensified efforts to spare communities from crime”.
Other interventions will be in security of tenure for people living and working on farms, and much needed repairs to major roadways that serve as economic arteries to the municipality.
On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa led a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the municipality.
READ | Strong municipalities needed to grow economy
The Presidential Imbizo was a platform for communities to interact and share their challenges with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.
“During this interaction, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and other leaders outlined efforts address these matters and to improve economic prospects more broadly in the district,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.
Water and electricity
After the community expressed their challenges, particularly those related to water, Xhakaza assured them that the city’s Water and Sanitation Department was working tirelessly to deliver services.
A new water pump station is in the pipeline for the area.
“The department has been allocated R590 million in 2024/25 for key projects including R30 million for a new 30Ml reservoir in Germiston; R15 million for the construction of a new sewer pipeline at Pomona and R10 million for a new water pipeline in Nigel.
“To mitigate the challenge the city power cuts and load reduction the City has undertaken to install backup generators at 21 water supply infrastructure sites such as reservoirs and pump stations. Some sites where the backup generators installed include Sunward Park, Tsakane and Germiston reservoirs,” the statement read.
Housing and employment
During the Imbizo, it was revealed that land claims totalling some R53 million are being fast tracked while housing is also getting attention.
It was revealed that the city, the provincial and national governments have partnered to under mega hosing projects which are at “various stages of pre-planning and construction”.
“The City has provided hundreds of serviced sites or stands that feature permanent infrastructure such as water, electricity and sanitation and are ready for top structures for integrated human settlements, and the development of transport services.
“Ekurhuleni is implementing a range of housing projects and related infrastructure totalling just under half a billion rand at Brakpan Old Location, Esselen Park, John Dube, Helderwyk, Birchleigh, Leeuwpoort, Daggafontein and Palm Ridge.
“Other actions under way and in the pipeline in the district include public employment projects such as the Vala Zonke pothole repair initiative; the opening in the coming weeks of a shared facility that will bring together small businesses under one roof; the revival of dormant industrial parks, and the provision of solar panels to needy residents in an initiative that has the potential to create 30 000 jobs,” the GCIS said.
Pre-Imbizo
Ahead of the Imbizo, leaders from all three spheres of government embarked on oversight visits to Ekurhuleni.
“Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy paid an oversight visit to the rehabilitation work construction crews are performing on 14km of the R21 freeway.
“Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontsho presented title deeds to land tenure beneficiaries who now have security on land bought by government at a cost of R12 million,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:42
123 views
Tshwane to host weather early warning system workshop
Tshwane to host weather early warning system workshop
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Bernice Swarts, is expected to address the opening of the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4All) to be held in Tshwane from Monday.
The agenda of three-day workshop will include:
- The review of the current state of Early Warning Systems in South Africa and the evaluation of the progress in implementing the four pillars of EW4All.
- The exploration of the linkages and alignment among ongoing and upcoming initiatives and the consolidation of key stakeholder commitments to strengthen early warning services.
- The establishment of a national coordination mechanism / affirmation of existing national coordination mechanism to guide efforts to scale-up early warning programming across the four pillars and linking national and local engagement.
- The identification of gaps in national Early Warning Systems, with respect to the minimum core capabilities checklist tool provided by the EW4All initiative.
- The provision of initial inputs towards a multi-year, multi-stakeholder, focused and actionable EW4All National Roadmap, around which all actors can marshal resources, technical assistance, and long-term support.
“The workshop, which will be hosted by the South African Weather Service, comes as South Africa continues to rank among the Southern African countries that are vulnerable to hazardous weather events including severe floods, droughts, tropical cyclones, storms, and heat waves.
“Among the participants at the workshop will be the SAWS; the National Disaster Management Centre; the Departments of Water and Sanitation and Communication and Digital Technologies; the Council for Geoscience; the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa; and provincial, district and local government representatives.
“Also participating in the programme will be the UN and international organisations active in Early Warning Systems; civil society organizations, including Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) active in early warning services, climate and disaster risk information; and the private sector, including the mobile network operators and the insurance industry,” the department said.
The DFFE said the EW4All is a United Nations initiative, which seeks to “ensure that everyone on earth is protected from hazardous weather, water, or climate events through life-saving Early Warning Systems by the end of 2027”.
It rests on the pillars of Disaster Risk Knowledge and Management, Detection, Observation, Monitoring, Analysis and Forecasting, Warning Dissemination and Communication and Preparedness and Response Capabilities.
“According to the UN, Early Warning Systems have helped decrease the number of deaths and have reduced losses and damages resulting from hazardous weather, water or climate events. However, major gaps still exist, especially in small island developing states and least developed countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 13:05
96 views