RDP houses left incomplete for eight years
Kanana Park residents in Johannesburg have had to finish construction at their own cost if they can afford it
Government
KZN entrepreneurs to showcase wares at Intra–African Trade Objective
KZN entrepreneurs to showcase wares at Intra–African Trade Fair
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, has commended entrepreneurs based in the province that have been selected to showcase their products and services at the 2023 Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Cairo, Egypt.
IATF is organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat.
The Intra-African Trade Fair is a trade show that provides a platform for sharing trade, investment and market information and enabling buyers and sellers, investors and countries to meet, discuss and conclude business deals.
The IATF will take place from 09 to 15 November 2023 will provide a unique and valuable platform for businesses to access an integrated African market of over 1.3 billion people with a GDP of over US$3.5 trillion created under the AfCFTA.
Speaking at a send-off ceremony held at Trade and Investment KZN (TIKZN) in Durban, Duma said the 21 entrepreneurs from the province were subjected to a gruelling selection process.
“By and large, the selection process was designed to ensure that we market our products and services from all corners of our province – especially the townships and rural areas. This is in line with our “Buy KZN Product” Campaign. We are happy that today our entrepreneurs gathered at Investment House for a well deserving send-off.”
He noted that through TIKZN which is an agency of government , the department has for a long-time, hosted International Expo Week, as part of creating a demand for local products produced by the province’s entrepreneurs.
“As the previous host of the 2021 IATF Trade Show 2021, we believe that this year’s event will put our entrepreneurs on the pedestal and augment the “Buy KZN Product” Campaign. Critically, we are encouraged by an integrated approach involving the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA).
“Collectively, we have made it possible to deploy resources to cover logistics and other necessary expenses for our entrepreneurs. This is in addition to the enduring partnership between TIKZN and Transnet Port Terminal. This partnership has helped many entrepreneurs under the export capacity-building programme,” Duma said.
The MEC added that the department is confident that as more entrepreneurs export their products, “we will see a significant increase in foreign exchange earnings.”
“We are saying to our entrepreneurs – the “Sky is not the Limit”. Go there - establish contact with prospective distributors and buyers - ascertain the market demand and trends and promote the Zulu Kingdom,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 14:06
534 views
US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA
US forges ahead to build stronger relations with Africa under AGOA
Amid challenging global economic circumstances, United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai believes there is an opportunity to shape a stronger, new and forward-looking vision for United States-Africa trade, where more segments of society are brought in.
"[A vision] where, as President [Joe] Biden would say, ‘the benefits are realised from the bottom up and the middle out,” Tai told delegates on Friday.
In the words of Tai, the United States remains a committed partner as Africa continues this journey.
Tai was speaking at the three-day African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.
“As President Biden said at the US-Africa Leaders' Summit last December, ‘the United States is all in on Africa’.”
African Continental Free Trade Area
Tai, who is the principal trade advisor and spokesperson on United States trade policy, announced that her country backs the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) under the US-AfCFTA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation for Trade and Investment.
This comes after the AfCFTA Secretary General, Wamkele Mene, and Tai signed the MoU during the summit.
“We created four Technical Working Groups, and the US government is providing approximately $160 million to support the negotiation and implementation of the AfCFTA,” Tai said.
This includes support from the United States Agency for International Development, the US Department of Agriculture, and Prosper Africa.
“The United States is here to build and enhance our relationships so that more Africans can enjoy the benefits of economic growth, to empower workers and their communities, and to build fair and equitable societies, not just for today, but for years to come,” Tai said.
She has since called on all stakeholders to work together to further unlock the potential of the partnership to pursue sustainable and equitable growth, especially for women, youth and the African diaspora.
The representative said she was looking to talk about improving utilisation rates, exploring additional trade tools to complement the AGOA relationship, implementing the AfCFTA, and better use of the multilateral trading system for the benefit of underserved groups.
“All of you in this room play such an important part in fully realising this vision. No one government can get there alone, and that is the power of this forum. A committed and thoughtful community with a common goal of strengthening our US-African trade and investment relationship.”
Tai described AGOA as a vehicle for workers and businesses across Africa.
“This is important, as all of us continue our economic recovery from the COVID pandemic.”
She also shifted her focus to challenges following the pandemic that battered economies, climate crisis, growing inequality and economic insecurity.
“But there have also been positive developments,” Tai said.
The green shoots, she said include trading under the AfCFTA since January 2021 and African Union joining G20 in September this year.
Tai cited the African Development Bank’s report that stated that five of the world’s 10 fastest-growing economies are projected to be in Africa.
She singled out South Africa, which is ranked one of the largest AGOA users, with the country being the top exporter in 2022, with $3.6 billion in exports.
“South Africa is leading the continent on other aspects as well, including through its clear commitment to human rights.”
She noted that the total goods imported into the United States under AGOA was about $10 billion in 2022, a significant increase compared to $6.8 billion in 2021.
Meanwhile, the non-petroleum imports – major sources of new investment and jobs in Africa, went up to $5.7 billion in 2022, from $5 billion in 2021.
“The programme has fostered economic growth and development on the continent to increase investment and to create new jobs and opportunities,” Tai said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 14:27
343 views
Fire victims snooze outside to protect their plots
“We sleep with our kids on our plots because we don’t want other residents to build their own shacks on them”
Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership
Cosatu backs SA’s continued AGOA membership
Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) President Zingiswa Losi says the federation has thrown its weight behind the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and for its renewal as the country continues to fight joblessness.
“As a trade federation movement, our responsibility is towards ensuring we protect jobs and that is why we have always had support for our government.
“But beyond that, we continue to advocate and request our sister federation in the US to be our voice on that side that the United States of America and the Biden administration will be able to renew AGOA for the next 10 years before they go for their elections next year,” she said on Friday.
Losi was speaking during a media briefing on the sidelines of the AGOA Forum, which is currently underway at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.
Launched in 2000, AGOA grants exports from qualifying African countries duty-free access to the United States market.
She reflected on the impact of the piece of legislation, which has created 450 000 jobs linked to the United States-Africa trade in different sectors. Losi said the mining, manufacturing, auto manufacturing, clothing, agriculture and jewellery industries have benefited from the legislation through exports.
The Cosatu President said the federation supports South Africa’s continued AGOA membership.
“It is also important that that unaligned role is strengthened when we deal with the geopolitics and it’s critical for government and business to simultaneously expand the trade and investment with other large trading partners such as the European Union, China and Japan and as you know we’re also part of the BRICS Trade Union Forum.”
Diversification, Losi believes, will ensure South Africa is able to trade with all countries to address the 42% unemployment rate, of which 60% of those are youngsters.
“Importantly, for us to do that we need to address issues of energy in the country, crime and corruption and also the issues of rail and infrastructure.”
Meanwhile, during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s main address, he said he remains concerned about the negative effects that trade restrictions on products like steel, aluminium or citrus fruit have on AGOA utilisation rates.
President Ramaphosa said he hopes the forum will help lay the basis for these to be addressed in future and that more targeted efforts to promote greater levels of investment can help unlock AGOA’s opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:36
143 views
Clanwilliam Dam project revival brings wish to West Coast
Clanwilliam Dam project revival brings hope to West Coast
The resuscitation of Clanwilliam Dam engineering work has sparked optimism among the West Coast corridor communities.
This comes after Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu conducted an oversight visit to the construction work underway at the dam site on Thursday.
The R4 billion project, situated on the Olifants River near the town of Clanwilliam in Cederberg Local Municipality, is one of the biggest government infrastructure investments in the Western Cape.
The project involves raising the dam wall by 13 metres. A total of R400 million has been allocated for the current financial year to implement the project.
The project includes extension of the dam wall on the downstream side, and raising it to a higher level by 13 metres.
The additional yield of water will provide an opportunity to develop resource poor farmers to promote food security and decent employment through inclusive economic growth.
During the visit, Mchunu said, unlocking the bottlenecks that caused the collapse of the project and seeing it to its completion is the biggest priority for the Department of Water and Sanitation.
Mchunu said the yield from the extended infrastructure will bring a lifeline to many livelihoods in this region.
“What we see happening here at the dam construction site is encouraging and there is no stopping until we finish. The dam currently yields about 123 million cubic meters of water and when the project is completed, it is expected to yield 343 million cubic meters of water, thus bringing into the system almost double the current yield,” Mchunu said.
Addressing stakeholders and residents that converged at the town’s local church hall, Mchunu said government is committing many resources to building projects across the country, and that through projects like Clanwilliam, the department strives for quality water to flow to South African households.
“We have built a solid, tight management team for the Clanwilliam Dam project, and we will support them to see it through to the end. The revival of the project is a hit for the Western Cape province.”
Mchunu said government is aware of the delays in the implementation of the Clanwillliam Dam project over the years, and assured that with the recent resuscitation of the project, the department remains committed to completing the work within the revised timeframes, budgets and specifications.
Among the direct benefits associated with the project, include more than 500 job opportunities for skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers, and the development of skills and learning opportunities; and new business opportunities for the locals.
Western Cape Infrastructure MEC Tertuis Simmers, who joined Mchunu during the visit, said the province welcomed the resuscitation of the dam project, noting there is a long history associated with the project.
“We welcome that work has commenced and interventions by stakeholders to unbundle the hindrances. This will now further accelerate the hydro-energy projects planned for the West Coast corridor and bolster the agricultural sector.
“As the spheres of government alongside the private sector, we remain committed to the successful delivery of this project,” Simmers said.
Francois Swaartbooi, a local businessperson, said the project has provided renewed hope for stakeholders of the West Coast, and they are happy it is being revived.
Swartbooi said they have established a business forum to ensure that local small medium enterprises benefit from the project.
The current work at the construction site includes excavations to prepare platforms for the drilling and blasting operations; blast proposal and design by the Drill and Blasting sub-contractor, and geologists to inspect the vertical faces of the excavation to determine the rock anchor details. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 15:03
89 views
Boks to receive warm KZN welcome during victory tour
Boks to receive warm KZN welcome during victory tour
The people of KwaZulu-Natal are brimming with pride and anticipation as they prepare to welcome the Springboks for their victory tour on Saturday.
The Bokke, as they are affectionately known, made history by becoming the first team to win the Rugby World Cup four times and only the second to defend the title.
The victory tour is a gesture of appreciation for the millions of South Africans, who unwaveringly supported the team throughout the Rugby World Cup tournament.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and eThekwini Municipality have invited rugby enthusiasts and residents to join them in celebrating the momentous occasion, and to paint the streets of Durban green and gold during the Durban leg of the Webb Ellis Trophy tour.
“The Springboks will be received by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda and the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, in true Durban style.
“The celebratory procession will commence at approximately 9am in uMhlanga, proceed through KwaMashu before winding its way towards the picturesque Durban beachfront before culminating at the City Hall balcony, where the coveted Webb Ellis Cup will be proudly displayed,” the provincial government said.
In light of the festivities, the residents and motorists have been urged to exercise patience, as temporary road closures will be in effect from 8:30am to 2pm along the parade route. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 11:42
80 views
Young farmer gets a shot in the arm from government
Young farmer gets a shot in the arm from government
When he started farming vegetables in 2021, Sihle Maseko only had one hectare of land to grow his produce, but his hard work and determination to be successful has resulted in the creation of jobs for others.
Armed with a Diploma in Agricultural Science, the 29-year-old farmer from Keiskammahoek in the Eastern Cape produces a variety of vegetables, including cabbages, butternut and green mealies on 15 hectares of land.
The 15 hectares of land include five hectares, which is owed by his family and a 10-year lease from the community.
With 10 people employed on the farm, Maseko’s market has extended to other District Municipalities, including Chris Hani and OR Tambo.
Maseko has also managed to establish regular buyers in Middledrift, Alice, Keiskammahoek, East London, Peddie and other areas in the Amathole District.
Thanks to the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) support, Maseko will now be able to produce more and expand his business.
On Thursday, DRDAR MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters handed over a tractor and its implements to Maseko which will help him to grow and become a commercial farmer.
“I want to be able to create more jobs for my community and inspire more youth to join this sector. The youth should realise that they can make a good living out of this sector,” Maseko said.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, Pieters said, government aims to ensure there are black commercial farmers, who through the support provided, are able to improve their businesses to make more profit, and be able to create jobs.
“We don’t want farmers that are always emerging and waiting for handouts from government. Agriculture is a business and it should not be practiced leisurely, especially with the investment from government - we want to see returns. Government cannot afford to be always pumping money to farmers that are not growing, you need to graduate," Pieters said.
The MEC also urged the youth to follow in Maseko’s footsteps.
“We are here today to assist a young farmer to produce more and excel in farming. If Sihle can do it what prevents other young people to get up and do something for themselves?” she said.
At the event, the MEC also handed over cropping inputs that included maize seeds and fertiliser to Keiskammahek community projects. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 11:17
98 views
Government on course to manage expenditure
Government on course to manage expenditure
The sixth administration is on course to prudently manage government expenditure while retaining the focus on infrastructure, health, education and policing as critical areas of growth and development.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who was responding to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Assembly on Thursday.
Leader of the opposition party (Democratic Alliance), John Steenhuisen asked the President the reasons for the drastic budget cuts to government departments, which will have an impact on government’s delivery of frontline services at a time when citizens are being battered by the cost-of-living crisis.
The President highlighted that the Minister of Finance tabled the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on Wednesday, which outlined the country’s fiscal position and provided information on government’s spending priorities over the next three years.
“Among other things, the Minister of Finance indicated in the MTBPS that we are resolved to stabilise public finances while maintaining support for the most vulnerable and protecting frontline services.
“At the same time, we are fast tracking growth-enhancing reforms, which includes a new financing mechanism for large infrastructure projects. Work is underway to reconfigure the structure and size of the state, while strengthening its capacity to deliver quality public services,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa told Members of Parliament that the cost containment guidelines issued by the National Treasury give advice and guidance to government departments to ensure a sound and prudent management of public finances in the context of significant constraints.
“The increase in fiscal constraints is mainly due to reduced revenues. The cost containment guidelines target non-critical spending items such as travel, catering, accommodation and capital items that have not yet commenced,” he said.
Turning to the discussions that the President and Deputy President Paul Mashatile have had with Ministers on an ongoing basis, President Ramaphosa said the meetings are focused on how programmes and activities undertaken by departments advance economic growth, social development and service delivery.
“Ministers and their departments engage with National Treasury on how best to implement any budget restructuring and delay projects where necessary without compromising the needs of communities,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/03/2023 - 09:10
275 views
Tshwane must stop violating Hammanskraal residents’ rights
Following the cholera outbreak in Hammanskraal, the City needs to comply with the Public Protector’s orders
Mandela Park families approved a sample toilet in 2008. 15 years later, they’re still waiting for the rest
Residents of Eastern Cape informal settlement say they’re not going to vote unless they get their promised toilets
Church blocks region to build school in Philippi
SANCO has stepped in to intervene and leaders have now escalated the matter to the authorities
My leadership lessons from the 2023 Rugby World Cup finals
My leadership lessons from the 2023 Rugby World Cup finals
By Busani Ngcaweni
First, I must declare that I am not much into the sport of rugby. In fact, I don’t understand half the rules of the game. Having watched it since the last success by the team, I have come to realise that what I always regarded to be a hooligans sport is in fact a game of strategy and tactics. There is elegance in the wrestling madness. From this world cup installment, I have been enriched by these notables:
Lesson Number One: Always lead from the front. Be prepared to do or get into messy situations and get things done. Roll up your sleeves and lead by example in doing what needs to be done for the mission to be accomplished. When you do that, people will know that their leader is not only there to bask in the glory of success, but is willing to get hands dirty and break bones along with all of them, thus inspiring confidence and getting team members mobilized. Siya Kolisi did that.
Lesson Number Two: Although it may sound like a tired cliché, this rugby world cup winning team has once again reminded us that in any organization, teamwork matters, and that the leadership is part of (not above) the team. Therefore, the leader should not stand on the podium or high office shouting instructions. Teamwork means recognizing energies and talents of different people, allowing different ideas and talents to thrive. That way the diversity and energies of different people, from the most junior to the most senior, will be brought to bear and help the organization/team to succeed.
Lesson Number Three: For leaders to succeed they must be comfortable with the idea of working alongside the most talented people. As we saw in our rugby team, there are players, young and older, who are more talented than the captain, yet he remains their captain. By him embracing these most talented players and actively cheering them, he himself becomes a superstar. With your guidance as team leader or captain, talented people will find creative ways of getting the job done successfully, and such success, in the final analysis, is to be cherished by all. As captain, you will lift the trophy. Talented people get the job done. Untalented people have a problem for every solution. They are exhausting and dangerous like re-thread tires - when the road gets hot and the load heavier, they buckle and cause a mess for everyone on the road. That is why the captain of this team, from the first to the last match, was always happy to be substituted and go sit on the bench without him sulking each time the coach made that call. He always understood that even as he sits on the bench, the victory of the talented people inside the rugby pitch will be his victory. He led them from the back and neither lost his confidence nor his shine. In fact he became more effective as he could guide and motivate without the pressure of being next to the ball. At the end of the day victory is his. He lifted the trophy. He leads the headline. He made history by accepting that there are other more talented and agile players, who are there as part of the team to make a sterling contribution. And sure they did, in every game. That is a remarkable leadership trait that many of us need to embrace for our organizations to succeed.
Lesson Number Four: Have reliable and visible core-pilots. These are people who will lead with you and take the organisation to success. They must be willing to take tough decisions; they must be ready to enter the scrum and gets their hands dirty; they must not be afraid to be unpopular with other members of the team. Co-pilots must be as much willing to take the blame as they are to share the glory. After all, they are part of the leadership collective of the organization. They must take equal responsibility in as much as they take the credit. Co-pilots must inspire confidence amongst the people/team members in the aircraft or the ship. Team members must know that the co-pilot will not sink the ship if the captain dropped dead. They must know that with the captain not in the cockpit, the destination (success) and the path (game plan) towards that destination is the same. Co-pilots must be solid, talented, brave and willing to take risks as much we saw in this game. The deputy captain (as part of the leadership collective) was remarkable of Mbonambi.
Lesson Number Five: Never underestimate any challenge. We saw in this world cup that the team played every game as if it was the final match. From this they tested their fortitude and agility. It is hard but essential to keep the team motivated especially during difficult times when it seems like the dream is fading away. Staying focused on the vision, whilst making technical adjustments in response to situations, builds cohesion and lift spirits. Rigidity must make way flexibility. The coaching staff was at their best in this regard. They made difficult, but effective, calls. Their calculated risks paid off.
Lesson Number Six: Never create doubt among your team members. Be transparent. Be consistent. Be predictable. Do not create factions. Treat everyone equally. Embrace diversity. Be prepared to do what you expect from others. Be the shield - your team members must know you have them covered.
Lesson Number Seven: Be humble. Arrogance and rank consciousness breaks spirits and discourage people. You become a monster who is feared and people find ways to undermine you. They give you nicknames and mock you. In the end you loose more than they do. You become a captain (and or coach) who achieved nothing. You are remembered for failure rather success. With all his achievements, Siya Kolisi remains humble. He acknowledges the roles and contributions of others, thus endearing himself with his teammates, coaches and supporters. His modesty in the era of the big ego humbling. Kolisi is a superhero, a marvel that we are learning from. Thank you for being such a role model. Every boardroom deserves your portrait.
* Busani Ngcaweni is the Principal of the National School of Government
Janine
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 08:46
734 views
Military Veterans commence payment pension benefit to eligible military veterans
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Thandi Modise promulgated the Military Veterans Regulations on the 06th of October 2023 through the Government Gazette. Following the publication of the Regulations, the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) started the admission and processing of prospective pension beneficiaries. The first batch of approved applicants received their first monthly pension benefit yesterday, the 01 November 2023, and will be getting their payments at the end of each month.
The Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Mr Thabang Makwetla, is pleased to announce the initial commencement of the payment of military veteran's pension benefit to eligible military veterans. The Presidential Task Team (PTT) has been seized with this process since its establishment by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The PTT in consultation with Military Veteran's Associations; the Department of Military Veterans; and the Government Pension Administration Agency (GPAA) have been hard at work to ensure that the disbursement of the Military Veterans Pension benefit, is paid out to all deserving military veterans.
“Today marks the beginning of yet another important milestone in our ongoing efforts to address the plight of military veterans in accordance with the provision of the Military Veterans Act No 18 of 2011” said Deputy Minister Makwetla.
According to GPAA Director of Special Pensions, Mr Kabelo Jonathan, military veterans should note that payments will be made from the date of approval of the applications. All applicants who have been contacted by GPAA, are required to submit the bank forms (Z894), bank statements and other relevant documents for prompt processing and payment of the military veteran's pension. To date, 18 119 applications have been received for the pension benefit of military veterans.
Military Veterans are urged to apply for this pension benefit and submit their applications to the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Defence, Republic of South Africa.
SARS welcomes MTBPS revenue revision
SARS welcomes MTBPS revenue revision
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has welcomed the tabling of the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), despite the statement’s downward revision of revenue collection by some R56.8 billion.
The MTBPS was tabled by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in Parliament on Wednesday.
“SARS has continued with its core functions of collecting all that is due to the fiscus. During the first half of the current fiscal year, we have collected gross revenue totalling R1 016.3 billion, growing by 4.5% and recording a surplus of R1.0 billion against the Budget 2023 estimate.
“This performance is on the back of strong gross collections from VAT, Fuel Levy and PIT [Personal Income Tax], partially offset by lower gross collections from CIT [Corporate Income Tax], as company profits remain under pressure. Without our assistance, the fiscal framework would have been under greater pressure.
“This is a good news story and offers hope in a currently challenging environment. Through focused commitment, SARS has paid back to the economy through refunds for the first six months of the current fiscal year an amount totalling R212.2 billion, higher by R24.6 billion over the prior year and higher than the Budget 2023 estimate by R30.1 billion,” the revenue service said in a statement.
The 2023 main budget had projected collections would reach some R1.78 trillion but that has now been revised down to R1.73 trillion.
“Income and profits in the broader economy have been adversely affected from what was anticipated at the 2023 February Budget. Provisional corporate income tax collections, from especially the mining sector, have reduced at the end of the June 2023 and led to a larger than expected deficit against the 2023 Budget estimate.
“Nevertheless, higher-than-estimated profitability in the finance sector (amongst others) supported provisional corporate income tax and dividends tax collections. Main sector performance that showed growth includes – Finance 7.8% from employment and vesting of shares, Community 6.8% from annual salary increases (mainly Government) and Wholesale 6.2%, mainly from retail and vehicles,” SARS said.
The revenue service highlighted that net tax revenue performance is “impacted adversely” by local and global challenges.
“A slowdown in mining production is down 55% due to lower demand of coal. This is compounded by disruptions to and underinvestment in freight and logistics networks, which erode the competitiveness of the South African economy. The intermittent and inadequate electricity supply remains the most immediate and significant constraint to production, investment, and employment.
“Rising inflation rates constrained household spending by raising the cost of living. Global growth slowed further in recent months. Central banks are countering the effects of high inflation by implementing restrictive monetary policies for longer than anticipated which negatively impact on all developing countries. Several global risks remain, including the increase in geo-political tensions, resulting in the need for stronger domestic demand to support economic growth,” SARS said.
The revenue service added that Gross Compliance Revenue yielded some R118.4 billion.
Key focus areas in this regard include:
- R11.9 billion from revised assessments flowing from the verification of 1.12 million returns, up Y/Y up by R5 billion (70%).
- Almost R40 billion that was secured from resolving more than 440k debt collection cases, up Y/Y R4 billion (±12%).
- R2.3 billion secured from 121 illicit investigations and 181 state capture cases in progress, 27 cases handed to the NPA.
Fraudulent claims
SARS highlighted that fraudulent refund claims remain a concern for the tax collector.
“At R172.1 billion, VAT refund payments contribute 81% to the overall outflows, growing against last year by R21.5 billion. 84% of all VAT Refunds are paid within 21 days, up from 77% last year. However, like all other revenue agencies, impermissible and fraudulent refunds remain a concern in this year, SARS prevented R45 billion from being paid out.
“Equally important is that we have prevented R45 billion from being paid out following verification activities that were enabled by Artificial Intelligence. Impermissible and fraudulent refunds remain a concern, and we must deal with this phenomenon,” the tax collector said.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter encouraged South Africans to do the right thing and pay what is due to the tax authority.
“The historic win by the Springboks on Saturday communicates an important yet simple message – that every single point makes a massive difference between winning and losing. While the odds were stacked heavily against the Springboks, it took superhuman efforts individually and collectively to contribute to what at times look like an impossible victory.
“It is therefore incumbent upon all of us as South Africans to play by the rules like the Springboks and never give up until the final whistle blows,” Kieswetter said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 09:07
654 views
Insult to injury: will there be any justice for District Six families?
Six families ask the state to expropriate their homes to avoid eviction
RTMC celebrates producing one million discs via online platform
RTMC celebrates producing one million discs via online platform
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is celebrating the significant milestone of successfully producing and delivering one million vehicle driving licensing discs via their online system.
A total of 1 058 000 motor vehicle licences have been renewed online. To mark the occasion, RTMC CEO, Advocate Makhosini Msibi, personally delivered a disc to Lukie Mashishi in Ivory Park, Tembisa, on Thursday.
“You have saved yourself time to go to a licensing centre where you would stand in a queue. We deliver the disc to you in the comfort of your home. We are partnering with people like you to improve our services. Everybody has been saying we are bad as government, but this bears testimony that we are improving,” Msibi said.
He applauded Mashishi for using the NaTIS online system and embracing the fourth industrial revolution in a government online service.
The RTMC platform is the only online motor vehicle licence renewal service in the country that does not charge administration or services fees. The cost of the motor vehicle licence fees and courier services are the only costs that are levied.
Mashishi was excited to receive his disc. He said it was unbelievable that his disc had been delivered in two days.
“I was initially sceptical to do this transaction online, but I said let me give it a try. It really works and I am glad to be one of the million people who have used the online system. I wish the service can grow and serve more people,” he said.
Mashishi said he was assisted by his 13-year-old to do the transaction and was surprised by how easy it was.
“By reaching the one million mark, the NaTIS online has proven to be the fastest growing, reliable, and cost-effective platform to utilise to renew motor vehicle licence discs throughout the country.
“The platform was launched in February 2022 and since then, the service has grown in leaps and bounds as it has been able to bring convenience to hundreds of thousands of motorists throughout the country,” the RTMC said.
Despite encountering teething problems initially, the platform has since proven to be resilient and a time saving, seamless digital service, which delivers on its promises.
The RTMC extends heartfelt appreciation and applauds all South Africans who have embraced and continuously make use of this innovative system.
“With great pride, the RTMC acknowledges the substantial progress made in its pursuit of delivering a world-class service to the citizens of South Africa.
“Prospective applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the convenient service, enabling them to renew their licences from anywhere in the country with the simple click of a button. Motor vehicle discs are delivered to all addresses throughout the country,” the RTMC said.
To access the platform, motorists are encouraged to visit: online.natis.gov.za.
“Vehicle owners can update their contact details on the platform to be able to receive reminder notifications and forms to be used when renewing licences. The process is quick and easy and offers motorists an ability to check the status of their driving licenses cards,” the RTMC said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 14:21
18 views
Government recognises media’s role in advancing democracy
Government recognises media’s role in advancing democracy
The South African government has joined calls for the protection of journalists’ rights, particularly during a time when South Africa is preparing for national elections.
According the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO violence against journalists intensifies during election cycles.
“Professional journalism and a free and objective press are cornerstones of democracy and serve to hold society accountable. We acknowledge the essential role journalists play in our democracy fighting for truth. We condemn any form of violence or intimidation against journalists domestically and internationally.
“South Africa remains committed to supporting a free and independent press. The protection of journalists is of utmost importance, as it is a form of protection of our own rights”, said Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Nomonde Mnukwa on Thursday.
Following the assassination of two French journalists in Mali in 2013, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/68/163, which proclaimed November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The resolution mobilises United Nations member states to intensify efforts to prevent violence against journalists and create a conducive environment for them to perform their work.
“This day provides an opportunity for all who believe in the advancement of democratic values and the preservation of citizen’s constitutional rights to speak out against any form of violence or harassment of journalists,” Mnukwa said.
Last month, South Africa commemorated Black Wednesday, which aims to raise awareness about the rights of journalists and remembers those who lost their lives fighting for the dignity of the profession.
In August, GCIS hosted a panel discussion with more than 100 journalism and communication students at the Tshwane University of Technology on the topic of Cyberbullying of female journalists, to create awareness on the harassment, discrimination and violence they face in the line of duty.
Furthermore, GCIS is planning to host a webinar on “Violence Against Journalists and the Integrity of Elections,” in the coming week.
“This is to ensure that, leading up to the election period next year, everyone is cognisant that journalists keep society informed, and foster democratic discourse and integrity of electoral processes. Details of the Webinar will be shared shortly.
“Government also commends the work done by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) as well as the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) and various partners on the workshops they have been hosting across the country to prepare media for reporting on the upcoming 2024 national general elections,” GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 12:39
135 views
Protesters storm Durban City Hall
Presidential Employment Programme workers received SMSes on Sunday stating that the programme was suspended due to a lack of funds
Measures in space to ensure safe and secure AGOA
Measures in place to ensure safe and secure AGOA
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) has put measures in place to ensure the 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum takes place in a safe and secure environment.
NatJOINTS includes various government departments led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the State Security Agency (SSA).
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said a safety and security operational plan is already being enforced, with all critical role players already on the ground to execute their various responsibilities, as per their mandate.
Mathe said police visibility has been heightened in and around the Johannesburg Expo Centre, with the aim of preventing and combating any form of opportunistic crime, before, during and post the event.
She emphasised that only those in possession of accreditation to attend will be allowed near the venue and restricted areas.
“Those found with fraudulent accreditation will face the full might of the law. Lost cards must be immediately reported to the South African Police Service. It is a serious offence to exchange cards amongst colleagues.
“Residents of Johannesburg and those who are operating businesses within the vicinity of the Johannesburg Expo Centre are advised about road closures for the duration of the event,” Mathe explained.
The affected intersections in the Nasrec precinct as reported by Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) include:
• Nasrec Road and Recreation Road;
• Nasrec Road and Randshow Road;
• Randshow Road and Commerce Street;
• Nasrec Road and Landbou Road;
• Golden Highway Road and Randshow Road;
• Ring 1 and Ring 2;
• Golden Highway and Stadium Road and
• Nasrec Road and Stadium Road.
NATJOINTS assured all dignitaries, attendees and spectators that multidisciplinary and integrated teams are already on the ground and are ready to deliver a safe and secure event. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 09:49
153 views
Here’s how South Africa’s social grant system has changed since 1994
SASSA pays 26-million grants every month
AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum
AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum
By Michael Currin
Growing business, trade and investment ties between sub-Saharan African nations that are part of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act and the United States (US) holds enormous benefits for the two regions.
Last year the combined two-way trade between AGOA beneficiaries and the United States exceeded $46 billion and there is strong potential for further growth as trade and investment is deepened.
These trade and investment opportunities will be explored at the 2023 AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum, which is being hosted by South Africa at the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 2-4 November 2023.
The forum, attended by a senior delegation from the United States and 35 Sub-Saharan Africa Trade Ministers, will seek to strengthen trade and investment. Moreover, with African Regional Economic Communities, civil society, organised and business representatives in attendance, it also encourages regional integration.
There is ample room for growth between the US and Africa, particularly in the critical mineral value chain which is at the centre of the global clean energy transition. The continent is a major producer of cobalt, copper, bauxite, chromium, high purity iron ore, platinum group metals and lithium which is needed for the global energy transition.
Those who partner with the continent will have access to these critical resources to spur on and benefit from the clean energy revolution. The International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook 2022 foresees demand for these critical minerals more than doubling by 2030 and quadrupling by 2050.
The forum also reaffirms Africa as a capable economic partner and a lucrative destination for growth and investment. Sub-Saharan African economies are on the rise following the impact of COVD-19 with the International Monetary Fund's Regional Economic Outlook forecasting their growth by 4.2 per cent in 2024 from 3,6 per cent in 2023.
Alongside the forum will be the Made in Africa exhibition that will display the products of more than 500 companies from across Sub-Saharan Africa. It will exhibit the region’s agricultural, automotive, chemicals, metals and minerals, mining and machinery, clothing and textiles, leather and footwear and the boatbuilding sector products.
Significantly, this forum is the last engagement hosted in Sub-Saharan African before the expiry of the current iteration of the African Growth and Opportunity Act in June 2025. AGOA has been at the core of United States economic policy and commercial engagement with Africa.
It was signed into law on 18 May 2000 to provide duty-free exports of goods from 40 sub-Saharan African countries to the United States, giving them a competitive advantage in the lucrative US market.
There are over 5240 tariff items that qualify for the AGOA ranging from apparel and footwear, wine, certain motor vehicle components, a variety of agricultural products, chemicals as well as steel.
The 2023 AGOA Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum is an opportunity to lobby for the renewal of AGOA beyond 2025 as a mutually beneficial platform for global exchange and growth for the industries involved, and as a gateway to the vibrant African market. An extension of AGOA will promote inward investment in Africa and deepen the impact of industrialisation on the continent.
Furthermore, it will also support our efforts to increase trade through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) that covers 54 countries and 1.4 billion people. It is anticipated that Africa’s trade will be greatly boosted by AfCFTA and the US stands to gain access to a single market, which is projected to grow to 1.7 billion people and $6.7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030.
The trade relationship between the US and South Africa has greatly benefitted from the AGOA agreement.
South Africa remains a key source of raw materials for the American economy and has become one of the region’s top 3 exporters to the US. The most success has been in our automobile sector which is the country’s biggest single beneficiary of the programme. Our local citrus industry has also benefited with the Western Cape exporting approximately R1.6 billion worth of citrus to the US under AGOA in 2022.
Other leading exports to the US included iron and steel, edible fruits, organic chemicals and precious stones. It helped create a total of 62 395 direct and indirect jobs, while overall AGOA generated an estimated 350 000 direct and 1.3-million indirect jobs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
South Africa looks forward to welcoming stakeholders from the US and across the continent to the forum. The stronger ties will ensure reciprocal trade and investment that will benefit both the US and Africa.
* Michael Currin is the Deputy Director-General Intergovernmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management at the Government Communication and Information System
Janine
Thu, 11/02/2023 - 08:54
287 views
Government addressing deficiencies that led to grey listing
Government addressing deficiencies that led to grey listing
Government is working hard to address deficiencies in the fight against organised crime and illegal financial flows, says Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana.
“Since February, when South Africa was grey listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a large number of government departments and agencies – including the police and the Hawks, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Special Investigating Unit (SIU), State Security Agency (SSA), the Reserve Bank, Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and South African Revenue Service (SARS) – have been working hard to address these deficiencies,” the Minister said.
Delivering the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement on Wednesday in Parliament, he said last week the FATF noted at its plenary meeting that such work is showing positive results.
South Africa has addressed 15 of the 20 technical deficiencies in its legal framework and has made good progress on 17 of the 22 effectiveness action items, including two that are now deemed to be largely addressed.
“However, there is also a significant amount of work that must still be done, particularly with regard to the investigation and prosecution of complex money laundering cases and terror financing, the identification of informal mechanisms for remitting money around the world, and the recovery of the proceeds from crime and corruption,” the Minister said.
Government expects to address all the deficiencies identified by the FATF by early 2025.
“We are also devising ways to make better and more targeted use of the Criminal Asset Recovery Account (CARA) to address crime. Among these efforts, and emanating from the Presidential project on illicit mining strategy, a recommendation has been made for Cabinet to consider using money from the fund to combat illegal mining.
“The South African Police Service, The Defence Force, the Financial Intelligence Centre, the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority have all received allocations from this fund,” the Minister said.
Improving efficiencies
He said over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, the focus is on improving efficiency and reprioritising funds towards key programmes.
The SAPS will contain costs and streamline operations as headcounts decline due to natural attrition.
“It will foster partnerships with communities and implement reforms to optimise resource allocation, training and technology. Government will continue to fill critical posts in the Border Management Agency and verify assets transferred from departments to the agency.
“To reduce employee compensation pressure, the Department of Defence will implement human resource reforms and review commuted overtime and allowance policies. Furthermore, funds will be reallocated in the Department of Defence to provide for day-to-day maintenance and emergency repairs,” the Minister said.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development will reallocate funds over the MTEF period to capacitate the Office of the Legal Services Ombud.
“Funding will also be shifted from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to Legal Aid South Africa to improve its capacity to provide legal representation in land rights matters.
“To strengthen its independence, the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services will become a government component in 2024/25. Concomitant resources, currently in the baseline of the Department of Correctional Services, will be transferred with the inspectorate,” the Minister said.
Government will continue to fill critical posts in the Border Management Agency and verify assets transferred from departments to the agency. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:04
623 views
Rising government debt servicing hinders social spending
Rising government debt servicing hinders social spending
The servicing of government’s rising debt is “crowding out” social spending in the country, says Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
The Minister on Wednesday delivered the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement in Parliament, where he explained the challenge posed to spending on social services.
“It is important… to point out that our debt levels and rising debt service costs are not problems in and of themselves.
“Our challenge is that rising debt service costs are crowding out important social spending, and our economy has not grown fast enough to support increasing expenditure or our current debt levels. Therefore, this policy statement sets out our strategy for avoiding a fiscal crisis and preventing the build-up of systemic risks to the economy,” he said.
This strategy will include reduced spending and reprioritisation “while also taking concrete steps to support growth”.
“None of these decisions are taken lightly. They are taken with the short- and long-term viability of public finances in mind, and in the interests of balanced and inclusive growth,” Godongwana said.
He explained that over the past 15 years, government’s spending has exceeded revenue, with government expected to borrow an average of some “R553 billion per year over the medium term”.
“As a result, gross debt rises from R4.8 trillion in 2023/24 to R5.2 trillion in the next financial year. By 2025/26, it will exceed the R6 trillion mark. We now expect gross government debt to stabilise at 77% of GDP by 2025/26. This is higher than the level we forecast in February.
“Over the next three years, debt service costs, as a share of revenue, will increase from 20.7% in 2023/24 to 22.1% in 2026/27. The cost, or interest of this debt, for next year alone, amounts to around R385.9 billion. Over the MTEF [Medium Term Expenditure Framework], interest costs amount to R1.3 trillion,” he said.
Tightening purse strings
The Minister said in this current financial year, spending has been brought down by some R21 billion, with further reductions of R64 billion and R69 billion contemplated for the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years.
“The implications of these adjustments will be partially offset by departments implementing the cost containment guidelines issued by National Treasury.
“It will also be offset by implementing control measures on payroll systems, in line with the directive issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration, as well as implementing the recommendations from the spending reviews conducted in the past two fiscal years.
“Government has made a strategic decision to allocate funds to sectors that are personnel heavy, such as Health, Education and Police Services,” Godongwana said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:06
520 views