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The Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act.

Location: MyPR

The Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act. The National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, which amends the National Small Enterprise Act of 1996, establishes the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) through the incorporation of the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), …

Read moreThe Black Business Council (BBC) welcomes the signing into law, by H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act.

Well wishes for new SANEF Chairperson Nwabisa Makunga

Location: News

Well wishes for new SANEF Chairperson Nwabisa Makunga

Government has congratulated Nwabisa Makunga who is the current Deputy Chairperson of the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) on her appointment as Chairperson of the forum.

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said the appointment of Makunga is a demonstration of her ability and capability. 

“Makunga’s elevation to this important responsibility is an inspiration to many women journalists and proof that the media industry is making great strides in affirming gender equality. It is a further demonstration of the triumph of abilities over obstacles of women in the media sector,” Mnukwa said on Thursday.

Makunga will lead a team responsible for representing those who are responsible for telling stories and representing the aspirations and wishes of the population.

“The media landscape is going through challenges, especially with the emergence of digital media and the impact of social media. SANEF is, amongst others, ceased with navigating challenges in the media sector such as declining revenues, shrinking media houses, fake news enabled by artificial Intelligence and other emerging threats to the information platforms,” Mnukwa said.

It is against this background that the GCIS is looking forward to further fostering its partnership with the forum and it office bearers, and the media as a whole. 

“I want to reiterate that GCIS recognises the significant contributions made by SANEF in upholding press freedom, ethical journalism, and media diversity in South Africa,” Mnukwa said. –SAnews.gov.za
 
 

nosihle
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 09:41

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Read moreWell wishes for new SANEF Chairperson Nwabisa Makunga

Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme

Location: News

Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, believes that urgent reform is needed for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to provide a sustainable pathway to permanent employment. 

This follows the ongoing protest action by former EPWP employees in Ethekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

The Minister has condemned any violence or damage to public property during the protests, particularly as it has halted key municipal service delivery such as the removal of waste which creates a health hazard. 

“The EPWP program was always designed to be a short-term program to give recipients work experience and training in order for them to find permanent employment,” Macpherson said, adding that due to the stubbornly high unemployment rate in South Africa, many have grown dependent on the program, having been employed as an EPWP worker for many years.

“As mentioned during the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure budget speech last week, it is therefore imperative that the EPWP program be re-imagined to become skills outcomes-based which leads to South Africans climbing up the opportunity ladder, rather than being stuck in EPWP for years on end,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

Macpherson looks forward to working with all stakeholders in the coming months to look at a better outcome for recipients nationwide.

The Expanded Public Works Programme is one of the government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods. The programme is  implemented in four sectors namely: infrastructure, social, environment and culture, and non-state.

All spheres of government and state-owned entities are expected to implement the programme.

The EPWP participants (beneficiaries) work on different projects such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Early Childhood Development Programmes, Home Community Based Care Programmes, Extra School Support Programmes, Working on Fire, Working for Water and roads maintenance projects. 

Since its inception on 01 April 2004 to 31 March 2022, more than 13 million work opportunities have been created in the EPWP space across all spheres of government. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 10:01

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President Ramaphosa signs Public Procurement Bill into law

Location: News

President Ramaphosa signs Public Procurement Bill into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented into law the Public Procurement Bill, which aims to create a single framework that regulates public procurement, including preferential procurement, by all organs of state, with the necessary efficiency, cost-effectiveness and integrity.

“The President has assented to the Public Procurement Bill which complies with the stipulation in Section 217 of the Constitution 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; and that national legislation must prescribe a framework within which a procurement policy must be implemented,” said the Presidency.

As enacted by the President, the Public Procurement Act addresses weaknesses in the procurement of goods and services by organs of state that have in the past enabled various degrees of corruption, including state capture.
The Act also responds to the acknowledgement that legislation regulating procurement by organs of state is fragmented and constrains justified advancement of persons or categories of persons who could provide goods or services.

The Act establishes a single framework that regulates public procurement, including preferential procurement, by all organs of state and promotes the use of technology for efficiency and effectiveness. The law seeks to enhance transparency and integrity, among others, to combat corruption, ensure efficient, effective and economic use of public resources and advance transformation and broadened economic participation.

It foresees that economic development will be stimulated through the procurement of goods that are produced and services that are provided in South Africa, as well as procurement that is developmental in nature.

The Public Procurement Act, which will be administered by the Minister of Finance, applies to departments, constitutional institutions, municipalities, municipal entities, and public entities.

There are also a limited number of clauses which apply to Parliament and provincial legislatures.

The Act applies to all procurement carried out by a procurement institution (including procurement through donor or grant funding) any person who submits a bid or has been awarded a bid and all procurement carried out by any person on behalf of a procuring institution.

Among its wide-ranging provisions, the Act lists persons who may not submit bids including a public office bearer, employees of Parliament or provincial legislatures, and officials or employees of, among others, public entities, constitutional institutions, municipalities and municipal entities. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Edwin
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 10:39

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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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President Cyril Ramaphosa Conveys Condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa, on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, has expressed deep sorrow and condolences following the recent landslides in Gofa, South Western Ethiopia, which tragically took the lives of at least 250 of people at this stage. 

President Ramaphosa said the South African people's thoughts are with the people of Ethiopia, particularly the bereaved families, during this period of mourning. Our hearts goes out to the Government and the people of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia at this difficult time. 

President Ramaphosa recalled the strong and historic relations between South Africa and Ethiopia, dating back to the struggle against apartheid.

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

Read morePresident Cyril Ramaphosa Conveys Condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

How South Africa’s vehicle retail landscape is adapting to change

Location: MyPR

South Africa’s choice of motor vehicle segment and body shape is changing – perhaps permanently – and, as a struggling market adapts to new realities, brand favourites face challenges too. South Africa’s motor retail industry landscape over the past 15 years has been affected by slow economic growth, poor infrastructure, political uncertainty and a series …

Read moreHow South Africa’s vehicle retail landscape is adapting to change

KZN commits to youth-oriented programmes

Location: News

KZN commits to youth-oriented programmes

The eThekwini Municipality has welcomed KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli’s commitment to youth-orientated initiatives and developmental programmes.

Ntuli, who led the Executive Council in a two-day Youth in Business Summit recently held in Durban, announced that youth-oriented programmes will be a priority throughout the tenure of his administration.
 
Hosted under the theme “Young people taking charge in leading economic development”, the summit provided a platform for engagement between the government and the youth.

The summit encouraged youth development, entrepreneurship and involvement in the mainstream economy throughout the province.

Speaking at the summit, Ntuli said the summit is a catalyst for change and a platform for dialogue.

The Premier said the Executive Council and provincial government have identified youth unemployment, youth development, and financial backing for youth-owned enterprises as some of the key priorities for the seventh administration.

As part of government’s interventions to fight the scourge of unemployment through the Premier’s Office, the provincial government has created a suite of funding schemes which include the Premier’s Youth Empowerment Fund which has been increased from R60 million to R100 million.

“This programme seeks to afford the youth of this province with an opportunity to interact with strategic business leaders and to also share their views and ideas on how they would want this province of KwaZulu-Natal to aid their initiatives and programmes,” Ntuli said.

eThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni commended the Premier-led initiative.
“When we give business access to young entrepreneurs, we will be ensuring that we transform the economy,” Myeni said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 11:07

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Africa Data Centres announces additional 6MW capacity now live in Cape Town

Location: News
Africa Data Centres

Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com), a business of Cassava Technologies, a pan-African technology group, has announced it is expanding its CPT1 facility in Cape Town.

This expansion shows the data centre giant adding three new state-of-the-art halls in new areas on the campus and adds another 6MW of IT load, effectively doubling its current capacity. The new expansion was implemented with support from the United States through an up to $300 million loan from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to Africa Data Centres.

According to Hardy Pemhiwa, President & Group CEO of Cassava, “This expansion by Africa Data Centres is in response to the increasing demand for co-location capacity in South Africa. Not only is Cape Town the second largest economy in South Africa, but it is also the de facto software and technology hub in Southern Africa.”

The company is seeing tremendous growth in the data centre market in South Africa generally, as both national and international cloud and IT service providers seek to expand their footprints in the region.

In terms of size, the expansion adds 1000 racks of white space or the space available for customers to lease, although the physical site is significantly larger than that. It is made up of two more colocation data halls and one hyperscale hall.

The additional halls are built in the cutting-edge modular design pioneered by Africa Data Centres, which enables rapid scalability and a modern design that allows the facility to be populated as and when required to suit the needs of the customer.

Pemhiwa says this would not have been possible without the support of the Ministry of ICT, Western Cape Provincial Government and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development. “I would like to acknowledge their ongoing support, as we expand our data centre facilities in South Africa.”

The new halls feature the same cutting-edge security standards and focus on the elements that matter most to clients, including scalability, flexibility, and energy efficiency, to bring world-class, affordable solutions to all its clients in the area. This data centre is highly flexible and designed to accommodate different and evolving customer demands.

Additionally, this data centre boasts hybrid cooling technology capable of handling both air cooling and liquid cooling. Despite its versatility, no compromises were made on efficiency. It is one of the most efficient and sustainable data centres ever built in South Africa. It is powered by renewable energy, boasts a Water Usage Effectiveness of 0 due to no water consumption for the IT infrastructure, and has an impressive Power Usage Effectiveness rating as well.

The Africa Data Centres' CPT1 facility is at the forefront of pioneering the use of wheeled solar power in the market. This innovation is enabled through a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed in March last year with Distributed Power Africa, part of the Cassava Technologies group. Africa Data Centres is the first company to successfully implement this groundbreaking technology in Africa, marking it the continent's first project of its kind.

“The introduction of wheeled solar power at the CPT1 facility offers significant benefits to our' customers, providing a truly sustainable data centre solution. As the demand for data continues to skyrocket across Africa, a continent where power supply is often intermittent, the need for reliable, cost-effective, and green power has never been more critical,” said Finhai Munzara, Interim CEO of Africa Data Centres.

By harnessing renewable energy, he says the CPT1 facility not only ensures consistent power supply but also supports sustainable operations, helping customers achieve their environmental goals. “Our state-of-the-art facility reduces reliance on non-renewable energy sources, setting a new standard for sustainability in the data centre industry.”

Munzara adds that Cape Town is an excellent location for colocation facilities as it is a stone's throw away from all the submarine cable landing stations. In addition, the Cape Town facility houses the Cape Town Internet Exchange (CINX), which makes multi-region peering more accessible, efficient, and easy to manage. This also facilitates direct connections between networks, enabling data to flow more efficiently and reducing latency, giving our users a faster, more responsive online experience.

In ending, Munzara says the expansion increases the capacity of the company's data centres in South Africa and it is an integral part of its investment plans to deliver several additional data facilities across the continent.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Data Centres.

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About Africa Data Centres: 
Africa Data Centres owns and operates Africa's largest network of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. Bringing international experts to the pan-African market, Africa Data Centres is a trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across Africa. Strategically located in South, East and West Africa our world-class data centre facilities provide a home for all business-critical data for Africa's small, medium and large enterprises and global hyper scale customers. https://www.AfricaDataCentres.com/

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Department works to secure water for all

Location: News

Department works to secure water for all

The Ministry and Department of Water and Sanitation, under the new administration, has committed to continue to ensure the implementation of all water projects without delay, and improved water and sanitation services.

Giving an update on the progress made in the water projects, which were previously delayed, Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisani Mavasa said in order to ensure water security,  government is focusing on investing in additional national water resource infrastructure. This includes building awareness of the need to use water sparingly, and improving municipal water and sanitation services.

Mavasa acknowledged that in the past, water projects have been subjected to unacceptable delays.

However, good progress has since been made in recent years in unblocking and accelerating the delayed projects.

She highlighted that there are currently 14 major national water resource infrastructure projects valued at more than R100 billion, which are in different stages of implementation around the country.

Among the projects which have been unblocked, include the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase Two, uMkhomazi Water Project and the raising of the wall of the Hazelmere Dam in KwaZulu Natal, construction of Ntabelanga Dam on the uMzimvubu River in the Eastern Cape.

This also includes the raising of the Clanwilliam Dam wall in Western Cape, the Giyani Water Supply Project in Limpopo, and the Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply Project in Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

“In addition to unblocking and accelerating these projects, Parliament recently passed the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency Bill, which will result in the establishment of an agency with a balance sheet which will enable substantially more funds to be raised for investment in national water resource infrastructure,” Mavasa said.

Water supply disruptions

Mavasa noted an increase in water supply disruptions in Gauteng and in eThekwini, which has resulted in hardship for residents.

According to the department, the demand for water in both areas is largely due to population growth.

The growth in demand was anticipated by planners, and new national water resource infrastructure projects were planned to meet it, unfortunately, the start of the projects was delayed.

“The new Polihali Dam and associated infrastructure, which is part of Phase Two of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, was due to be completed in 2019 to enable additional water to be supplied to the Integrated Vaal River System, which in turn is the main source of water for Gauteng. 

“This project was unblocked, and the main contracts were all awarded in October 2022 and construction is now fully underway and is due to be completed by 2028.

“Similarly, the start of the uMkhomazi project to supply additional water to eThekwini and surrounding municipalities was delayed by nine years, due to concerns about its affordability in terms of the tariffs that would have to be charged to the residents of eThekwini. The affordability problem was resolved in 2023 with the approval by National Treasury of an application by DWS, with the support of the Presidential Infrastructure Fund, for a blended finance solution for the funding of the project which made the tariff more affordable,” she explained.

Among the solutions reached included a 25% interest-free loan and a 25% grant from the national fiscus, and this enabled the eThekwini Municipal Council to approve the water supply agreement on 31 January 2024.

The department has now started to raise the finance for the project and to commence with implementation. Work on the design of the dam and tunnel for the uMkhomazi project has started.

The department also noted the delays in a project to raise the Hazelmere Dam wall to further increase water supply to eThekwini Municipality and surrounding areas in KwaZulu-Natal, which started in 2011. This was due to contractual disputes between the department and the main contractor.

“The contract with the main contractor was terminated in 2018, resulting in a halt to the project. This was resolved in 2021, and the project was completed in 2023.”

Ntabelanga and Clanwilliam Dam upgrades

The department further noted that the construction of Ntabelanga Dam on a tributary of the uMzimvubu River in the Eastern Cape, which was planned to provide additional water for domestic and irrigation use was delayed because the department was unable to successfully motivate for a budget to be allocated to the project.

“The department resolved this blockage in 2023, by reconfiguring the project to reduce its cost while still providing the same benefits. The reconfiguration involved adopting a brown fields approach to water services infrastructure rather than the previous green fields (upgrading existing bulk water supply infrastructure rather than build new infrastructure).

“The reconfiguration of the project resulted in a decrease in the cost of the project from R18 billion to R8 billion, and National Treasury then agreed to fund the reconfigured project from the fiscus. As a result, site preparations and the process to obtain the license to construct the dam are currently underway and construction of the dam wall will commence by October 2024.”

A project to raise the wall of the Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape, resulting in a tripling of the volume of water than can be stored in the dam, was also started in 2013, but the implementation of the project was delayed due to budget constraints and several changes in construction approach.

As a result, by 2023 the project was only 10% complete. The delays have since been addressed, and the project is now fully funded and major construction work is currently underway.

Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply project

The major Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply project to increase water supply to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality in Mpumalanga and the Moutse-East area under the Sekhukhune District Municipality in Limpopo, has since been unblocked with construction having begun in 2022.

The project was originally planned to commence in 2019 but was delayed because of funding constraints and poor planning by the department.

The construction of a new bulk pipeline from Loskop Dam in Mpumalanga to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality and associated infrastructure is also underway.

Giyani Water Supply project

The Giyani Water Supply Project, which has been delayed for many years, and been the subject of investigations by the Special Investigations Unit, has since been unblocked and accelerated over the last two years.

Mavasa highlighted that the main bulk pipeline from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam near Giyani was completed last year, and projects are currently underway to refurbish and increase the capacity of the Giyani Water Treatment Works and to install bulk reticulation lines, bulk reservoirs, service reservoirs and reticulation to households.

“Water has started to flow to households in nine of villages in Giyani and we will strive to ensure a further 15 villages receive water by the end of August this year, and that a further 31 villages receive water within the next two years.”

Water Services Amendment Bill

In addition to assisting municipalities to improve their water and sanitation infrastructure, the department has proposed amendments to the Water Services Act, to address the poor municipal performance illustrated by the results of the Blue, Green and no Drop reports which were issued in December 2023.

“The Water Services Amendment Bill will be submitted to Cabinet shortly for approval for it to be tabled in Parliament.”

Improvement in issuing of water use licence

Meanwhile, the department’s turnaround plan for the issuing of water use licences has seen an improvement in performance from 35% of applications being processed within 90 days to 70% being processed within 90 days.

“In addition, the backlog of more than a thousand applications has been largely eradicated, with no more than 100 applications which have taken longer than 90 days to process,” Mavasa said.

The department has committed that further improvement towards the President’s 2020 State of the Nation Address (SONA) target of processing all applications within 90 days, will be achieved during this financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 10:53

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Keeping the Madiba Magic alive

Location: News

Keeping the Madiba Magic alive

by More Matshediso

A women-led community development project is keeping the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela alive by educating children, and providing entrepreneurship and employability skills to women, youth and persons living with disabilities in the North West. 

Tshwaraganang Barolong Project (TBP) is a non-profit organisation (NPO) that was established in 2001 in Motsitlane section near Madibogo village. 

The organisation’s chairperson Mapule Lebakaeng said the organisation initially specialised in equipping women with knitting, sewing and upholstery skills to help fight against unemployment and poverty.

“I was inspired to gather a group of women in my village to start the organisation more than 20 years ago. I had just returned from working in Johannesburg then, and I wanted to share my skills with other women and reduce unemployment and poverty in our village,” she said. 

Years later, the organisation started to offer early childhood development (ECD) services to five wards in the rural Ratlou Local Municipality, thanks to the support from the National Development Agency (NDA). 

In 2015, the NDA identified TBP as an implementing source for its early childhood development (ECD) campaign. It funded the organisation with  R914 000 to buy a fully resourced truck that travels to rural areas within the local municipality without access to ECD services.  

“Our mobile truck travels to five wards within the municipal area on a daily basis, to offer two hours of learning sessions to children between the ages of one and five years old. The plan is to prepare them for formal schooling and to perform in the learning environment,” explained Lebakaeng. 

For the ECD programme, Lebakaeng said the organisation works in partnership with traditional leaders to identify families that need the educational services. About 360 children are currently benefitting from the programme. 

“We target 40 children a day and we provide learning sessions for two hours, including nutritious meals because most of our learners come from impoverished families,” she said. 

Education, a tool to end poverty

Lebakaeng reminded citizens that Tata Nelson Mandela saw education as a tool that could end poverty, inequality and unemployment in society. 

“I encourage women to start ECD centres, especially in rural areas and informal settlements because every child has a right to education and they should not be denied opportunities based on their circumstances,” she pleaded. 

Lebakaeng said the organisation currently has six permanent members but it continues to empower unemployed women, youth and persons with disabilities with clothing manufacturing skills and to start their own ECD centres. 

“Since inception to date, more than 500 community members have acquired various skills from our project. Some of them benefitted from skills that enabled them to start their own businesses while many young people were able to find employment after working with us on the project,” she explained.

She added that a few years after establishing the project, TBP ventured into manufacturing uniforms for a variety of local clients including schools, churches and stockvels because local women had acquired the necessary skills. 

“Among other things, we make and sell jerseys and traditional wear, and we offer embroidery services as well. We also produce fruit juice and cleaning products,” she said. 

The organisation has so far received funding and support from various government departments and State-owned- entities.

In 2003, the then Department of Provincial and Local Government (DPLG) built the NPO a new nine-room structure including a kitchen, sewing room, knitting room, store room, chemical room and two toilets.

In 2006, the NDA funded the organisation with R833 380 to buy industrial sewing machinery, a delivery bakkie, two overlocking machines, an embroidery machine, a fridge, and the raw materials needed for sewing, cleaning and knitting.

In the same year, the then Department of Employment and Labour and the NDA provided the women with various training programmes including networking, book-keeping, financial, project and conflict management, as well as how to bid for tenders to supply their clients with uniforms.

In April 2021, the project successfully applied for another grant worth R396 502.70 from the NDA to expand their sewing and material production, and procured four additional sewing, knitting and overlocker machines, an embroidery machine, raw chemical products and renovation of the existing operational premises.

For more information about the NDA visit www.nda.org.za Visit  www.labour.gov.za if you need information about the Department of Employment and Labour.

*This story first appeared in Vukuzenzele

Janine
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 12:09

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Read moreKeeping the Madiba Magic alive

National Small Enterprise Amendment Act touted as gamechanger

Location: News

National Small Enterprise Amendment Act touted as gamechanger

The signing into law of the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to revolutionise the small business ecosystem.

“We are confident that the National Small Enterprise Act, as amended, will turn the tide in favour of small enterprises, by levelling the playing fields and enabling the provision of more integrated and effective financial and non-financial support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and co-operatives,” Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams said on Tuesday.

The Act establishes the Office of the Enterprise Ombuds Service, redefines and simplifies the term “small enterprises” and empowers the Minister to declare certain trading practices in relation to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as unfair trading practices.

This streamlines the support services that government provides to MSMEs to broaden their participation in the economy in line with government’s commitment towards placing MSMEs at the centre of the reconstruction and recovery of the economy.

The new Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) will drive economic transformation and inclusive growth in the economy through ensuring the provision of customised financial and non-financial support for MSMEs and cooperatives to enable them to play a strategic role in the value chains of various sectors of the economy.

“The Act also provides for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Services which will serve as an impartial mediator in the disputes, especially for small enterprises, thereby avoiding costly litigation processes.

“The lack of effective and affordable access to a justice mechanism for small enterprises has been a matter of grave concern to all in the small enterprise eco-system. Business-to-business disputes and the late and nonpayment of legitimate invoices remain a significant reality in the lives of small enterprises and cooperatives, with very real implications for their growth and sustainability,” the Minister said.

MSMEs will now avoid the litigation route, which is wearisome and costly, and use the alternative dispute resolution mechanism of the Ombud. 

“The determinations by the Ombud will be mandatory and binding. The provision will still be made within the act for review specifically on the grounds of illegality, procedural unfairness; or irrationality, thus still protecting the constitutional rights of all persons involved,” she said.

Unfair Trading Practices

The Act also enables the Minister to declare certain trading practices in relation to small enterprises as unfair trading practices on recommendation of the Ombud.

“It sets the parameters and procedures in terms of which the Minister, by notice in the Gazette, may declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited unfair trading practices.

“The unfair trading practices relate to exclusionary compliance requirements for small enterprises, retrospective changes to contracts, ambiguous contracts, sudden and unjustified termination of a commercial relationship or termination without reasonable notice to MSMEs and Cooperatives,” Ndabeni-Abrahams said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 14:16

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President outlines process to establish SOEs Holding Company

Location: News

President outlines process to establish SOEs Holding Company

With government moving full steam ahead with plans to establish a holding company for state-owned enterprises (SOEs), the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation has been assigned the responsibility to finalise the processes.

“The SOEs that were previously under the stewardship of the Department of Public Enterprises will report to their respective line departments in terms of policy and regulatory matters,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday in Parliament.

Responding to the debate on the Presidency Budget Vote speech, the President reiterated that government is introducing legislation to establish a state-owned holding company to oversee and coordinate key strategic SOEs.

“The legislation will assign the functions of the holding company, which will cover issues of governance, financial management, remuneration standards and similar matters.

“This is in line with global best practice and is the approach taken by many countries with SOEs that successfully fulfil a social and economic development mandate.

“While some in this House might be dismissive of the work being coordinated in the Presidency, let us not lose sight of what these measures mean for the everyday lives of South African citizens. They mean more affordable and reliable electricity, cleaner water, efficient trains and lower data costs,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, turning to other issues, the President said with just a small team of dedicated officials in the Presidency and National Treasury working closely with a wide range of government departments and entities, the President said the reforms implemented through Operation Vulindlela have had a measurable impact on growth and investment.

“These structural reforms are in the most strategic and critical sectors of our economy, as I indicated yesterday. They are in energy, in logistics, in telecommunications, in visa reform and in water. 

“The reforms that are underway in the water sector – like reinstituting water quality monitoring systems, developing a raw water pricing strategy, and establishing a Water Partnerships Office to develop water infrastructure – have direct and material benefits for service delivery,” the President said.

Improved water infrastructure ensures more reliable and sustainable water supply while water quality management systems mean cleaner water and a reduced health risk.

“The ultimate beneficiary is the people of South Africa, and strengthening and enhancing the economy of our country,” the President said.

He said the reforms being implemented are laying a robust foundation for sustained economic and social progress.

“We have noted calls for programmes to involve young unemployed people in various forms of work, training and development. Contrary to some suggestions in the debate, we do have such programmes.

“These include the successful National Rural Youth Service Corps programme – known as NARYSEC – which provides opportunities to unemployed rural youth. We also spoke yesterday about other public and social employment programmes that have a large number of young participants.

“The challenge we have now is to scale up these programmes within available resources to ensure that they have a greater reach and impact,” the President said.

Size of the Executive

On the matter of the size of the Executive, the President said at this moment in South Africa’s history, the country faces complex and urgent challenges, which require strong coordination from the centre of government.

“While we continue to seek ways to use the resources of the state optimally, we have also had to ensure that we achieve inclusivity and balance. We believe that this is important for ensuring governance outcomes that serve the interests of all South Africans.

“Most importantly, we will ensure that the machinery of government works efficiently, and that it is used to advance the people’s interests and improve their lives.

“We will ensure that we reduce waste, rationalise and restructure our state-owned entities, and continue to direct the majority of our budget towards sustaining the social wage and investing in infrastructure,” the President said.

He said now more than ever, government must demonstrate what the people of South Africa can achieve when they work together.

“We must seize the opportunity that this Government of National Unity presents to restore these people’s trust in our democracy, and to realise the promise of dignity and equality that is contained in our Constitution.

“Five years from now, let us be able to say that we have made a difference in the lives of our people. Let us ensure that we take our beautiful country closer to the society of which we have all dreamed. And let us make sure that we leave no-one behind,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 15:32

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South Africa welcomes the declaration of unity between the various Palestinian groups

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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South Africa welcomes the declaration of unity between various Palestinian groups and their stated intention to constitute an interim national unity reconciliation government. Palestinian unity has the capacity to bring Palestinians closer to achieving the core objectives of the Palestinian cause: self-determination, freedom, justice, peace and the establishment of an independent, sovereign and prosperous Palestinian state.

Our own struggle for a free, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, undivided and prosperous South Africa instructs unity as the foundation of our collective strength, resilience and achievement.

It is through unity and solidarity that the Palestinian people can effectively confront the challenges of occupation and oppression, and work towards the realisation of their national aspirations. The declaration issued signals a commitment to overcome past divisions and advance towards a shared vision and future.

South Africa commends the various Palestinian groups, their leaders and representatives who have chosen the path of dialogue, national reconciliation and common action in pursuit of the undoubtedly just Palestinian cause.

South Africa further remains committed to the two-state solution and a free Palestine. As we express our continued solidarity and unwavering support, we look forward to the positive impact that Palestinian unity and national reconciliation will bring, fostering hope and driving meaningful change. Let this be the dawn of a new era where the collective aspirations for freedom, justice and self-determination of the Palestinian people are fully realised.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

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Transnet granted R18.85 billion loan

Location: News

Transnet granted R18.85 billion loan

The African Development Bank Group has approved a R18.85 billion ($1 billion) corporate loan to Transnet for its recovery and growth plans.

Transnet has faced operational challenges mainly in the critical rail and port businesses resulting from underinvestment in infrastructure and equipment, theft and vandalism, and external shocks such as floods and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We appreciate the support demonstrated by the African Development Bank. The loan extended by the bank will make a significant contribution to Transnet’s capital investment plan to stabilise and improve the rail network and to contribute to the broader South African economy. 

“The accompanying grant funding to the loan will also greatly assist Transnet with its energy efficiency efforts and with Infrastructure Project Preparation initiatives,” Group Chief Executive of Transnet Michelle Phillips said.

The 25-year loan, which was approved by the African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors on 12 July 2024 is fully guaranteed by the government of South Africa. 

It will facilitate the first phase of the company’s R152.8  billion ($8. 1 billion) five-year capital investment plan to improve its existing capacity ahead of expansion for the priority segments throughout the transport value chain.

“The company is committed to addressing past challenges, fostering integrity, and enhancing efficiency within the organization. It has made progress in some key areas, including reforms in governance procurement and financial management,” a joint statement by Transnet and the African Development Bank said.

Recovery Plan

In October 2023, Transnet launched its recovery plan, which seeks to rehabilitate infrastructure and accelerate the relaunch of operations over 18 months, focusing on restoring operational performance and freight volumes to meet customer demands.

“Transnet, the custodian of South Africa's critical transport and logistics infrastructure, plays an indispensable role in the economy of the country, ensuring a competitive freight system and serving as a gateway to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

“Our partnership will enable Transnet to execute a comprehensive Recovery Plan (RP), addressing operational inefficiencies, particularly in rail and port sectors. It is aligned with South Africa’s strategic 'Roadmap for Freight Logistics System,' and overseen by the National Logistics Crisis Committee, chaired at the Presidency level.

 "This initiative signifies our commitment to enhancing national logistics capabilities and driving sustainable economic growth,” African Development Bank’s Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure and Industrialisation Solomon Quaynor said.

Transnet has been a client of the African Development Bank since 2010. The company employs more than 50 000 people and plays a critical role in integrating and connecting South Africa with the global economy. 

The company’s freight system’s activities contribute significantly to South Africa’s economy. 

Its operations serve as key gateways for trade within South Africa and with landlocked countries in the region, such as Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the Democratic Republic of Congo through the Port of Durban. –SAnews.gov.za
 
 

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Wed, 07/24/2024 - 12:25

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New law on climate change response welcomed

Location: News

New law on climate change response welcomed

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) has welcomed the signing of the Climate Change Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa, into law.

“We welcome this ground-breaking legislation, which not only clearly sets out the functions of the PCC but outlines the role that provinces and municipalities will play in mitigation efforts, to ensure the realisation of the vision for effective climate change response and just transition to a climate-resilient and low-carbon economy and society,” PCC Commissioner and Executive Director, Dr Crispian Olver, said on Tuesday.

The Climate Change Act sets out the legal mandate for countrywide climate change response, to enable the alignment of South Africa’s climate change response policy and actions, including mitigation and adaptation actions, which also constitutes South Africa’s country fair contribution to the global climate change response. 

READ | SA’s response to climate change outlined in new law

While a few state departments and other government agencies have just transition outcomes explicitly outlined in their annual performance plans, the Act now clearly instructs every organ of state to review and if necessary, revise, amend, coordinate and harmonise their policies and measures, programmes and decisions in order to ensure that the risks of climate change impacts and associated vulnerabilities are taken into consideration.

Olver said the Climate Change Act is South Africa’s first comprehensive legislation to encourage the development of an effective climate change response.

“To enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development.

“Undoubtedly, any successful climate action effort will require alignment of major social-economic, environmental and governance policies. We are entering a new phase of climate action and we believe the Climate Change Act, will foster institutional coherence and enhance climate change adaptation governance across the national, provincial and local layers of government,” Olver said.

The Commission will contribute to strengthen its relations with government,  particularly the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) as well as the National Treasury in giving life to the Act and ensuring that a smooth evolution to a public entity. It will also strengthen the work of the commission and improve its partnership with stakeholders and other role-players. –SAnews.gov.za
 
 

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Wed, 07/24/2024 - 09:12

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World Bank Group Executive Directors note progress and re-affirm support to South Africa and Namibia

Location: News

The World Bank Group
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A delegation of the World Bank Group's (WBG) Board of Executive Directors (EDs) noted South Africa's and Namibia's progress in achieving their development goals and re-affirmed World Bank Group's commitment to providing support. The 11 EDs and Alternate EDs were hosted by the World Bank and International Finance Corporation (IFC) country offices during their recent visit on July 7-13.

The visit provided a platform to assess progress with projects and engage on the evolution of the World Bank Group's relationship with the countries, from a knowledge-focused to a broader knowledge and financing partnership. EDs met government and business leaders, local stakeholders, and project beneficiaries, and experienced first-hand how the countries manage development priorities and challenges. South Africa and Namibia have common challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Throughout the visit, the delegation discussed the ongoing and future support from the World Bank Group to boost inclusive economic growth and job creation.

In South Africa, over the past three years the country has shifted from being a non-borrowing client to borrowing over $1 billion per year from the World Bank. South Africa also constitutes the largest IFC portfolio in Africa and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency's (MIGA) second largest on the continent.

In Namibia, the World Bank Group is preparing a new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) with the government that will strategically guide its support as the engagement continues to grow. The World Bank recently approved a $138.5 million renewable energy and transmission loan to NamPower, after 15 years without borrowing.

Key highlights of the visit included:

  • In South Africa, the delegation met with the Minister of Finance Honorable Enoch Godongwana, and the Minister of Electricity and Energy Honorable Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. EDs visited two IFC clients and two World Bank projects which showcased support for key government priorities and demonstrated how these projects link to global issues and corporate initiatives such as the just energy transition, health, urban development, and subnational government engagement. The delegation toured and engaged with stakeholders at the Komati power station – the site of the Eskom Just Energy Transition Project; the Addo Elephant Park that houses the innovative Wildlife Conservation Bond; and the IFC-supported Trust for Urban Housing Finance and BioVac Institute that manufactures vaccines locally.
  • In Namibia, the delegation met with Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Honorable Ipumbu Shiimi and key stakeholders, including development partners and the private sector.  The delegation visited informal settlements near Windhoek to gain insights on housing related issues, a sector where IFC is investing and which the government has identified as a priority for World Bank Group engagement.

Matteo Bugamelli, the World Bank's Executive Director who represents the constituency of countries including Albania, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, and Timor-Leste, expressed optimism about the countries' progress. He emphasized the World Bank Group's commitment to helping South Africa and Namibia address unemployment and inequality challenges. He particularly welcomed the increased financing to support the implementation of much needed reforms.

About the World Bank Group's Board of Directors: The Board of Executive Directors is responsible for the conduct of the general operations of the Bank, making decisions on loans, credits, grants, policies, and financial matters. The Board consists of 25 members who represent the 189 member countries, providing guidance for the institution's development activities.

Visiting Board Officials: The delegation included Mr. Abdulaziz E A Almulla (Executive Director for Bahrain, Arab Republic of Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Maldives, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, West Bank and Gaza, and Republic of Yemen); Mr. Matteo Bugamelli (Executive Director for Albania, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, San Marino, and Timor-Leste); Ms. Ayanda Dlodlo (Executive Director Angola, Nigeria, South Africa); Mr. Floribert Ngaruko (Executive Director for Botswana, Burundi, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe); Ms. Katharine Rechico (Executive Director for Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis and St. Vincent & the Grenadines); and Mr. Tauqir Shah (Executive Director for Afghanistan, Algeria, Ghana, Islamic Republic of Iran, Morocco, Pakistan, and Tunisia.

Visiting Alternate Executive Directors:  Mr. Louis Albisson (Alternate Executive Director for France); Mr. Felice Gorordo (Alternate Executive Director for the United States), Mr. Koji Uemura (Alternate Executive Director for Japan); Ms. Kerstin Sumana Wijeyewardene (Alternate Executive Director for Asia and the Pacific Constituency) and Mr. Weifeng Yang (Alternate Executive Director for China).

Included in the delegation was Ms. Mercy Tembon, World Bank Vice President and Corporate Secretary.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

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