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Government
Call to use data from Census 2022 to improve lives
Call to use data from Census 2022 to improve lives
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on government departments, policy makers, researchers, civil society organisations and international organisations to use the information from Census 2022 to collectively strive to improve people’s lives.
“Census 2022 has told us where we are making progress, but it has also laid bare the challenges that remain. It will be an invaluable tool in meeting those challenges. We now have the information we need to ensure that as we build this country, we leave no one behind,” the President said
He made these remarks during the hand over of the Census 2022 national results by Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and provides comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends, and other service delivery related information.
According to the results, South Africa’s population has increased from 51.7 million in 2011 to more than 62 million in 2022, which is a growth rate of 1.8% in the intercensal period.
“The data contained in a census is one of the most crucial planning, monitoring and evaluation tools for governments. It informs the planning, budgeting and policymaking work of government at the most fundamental level.
“We have long said that one of our priorities in building a capable, ethical, developmental state is to ensure that policy making is evidence driven. Policy making that is not informed by accurate data can result in inefficiency in the allocation of resources, under-estimation of the needs of citizens, poorly planned programmes and poor financial management. Unless we are able to see the bigger picture, we are unable to forecast,” the President said.
He said Census 2022 gives South Africa the information it need to implement government’s programme of action in a targeted, evidence-driven manner.
“We encouraged by the progress in the report presented by the Statistician-General. We note, for example, that the number of people older than 20 with no education has significantly decreased, where the number of people who now have grade 12 has more than doubled since 1996.
“It is significant also that a large proportion of our children are now in early childhood development centres. We still have work to do to ensure all eligible children attend ECD centres. The presentation shows that people’s housing circumstances have improved, with almost 90 percent of South Africans now staying in formal housing,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said despite the present challenges of load shedding, South Africans should be encouraged by the almost universal access to electricity supply.
“The results that have been presented here today underscore the urgency with which we must work towards meeting the aspirations of the National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
The President said this is the fourth census undertaken since the advent of democracy in 1994, and, as such, it contributes to a vast body of knowledge that describes the state and the progress of the nation.
Census 2022 was the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, with the first conducted in 1996, with subsequent censuses being conducted in 2001 and 2011.
This is South Africa’s first-ever digital census, compiled from data collected from everyone within the borders of the country. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 09:48
445 views
Students encouraged to use Higher Health crisis helpline
Students encouraged to use Higher Health crisis helpline
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has encouraged South African students to use the HIGHER HEALTH 24-hour crisis helpline, which addresses the mental health needs of students and staff in the higher education community.
Nzimande made the call as the department joined the world in marking World Mental Health Day on Tuesday under the theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right’.
The HIGHER HEALTH 24-hour crisis helpline can be accessed via a toll-free line on 0800 006 333.
In response to mental health within the Post School Education and Training (PSET) sector, Nzimande said in the past two years, HIGHER HEALTH, the Higher Education and Training Department’s health and wellness agency, managed 53 619 reported mental health cases by students.
Nzimande said through HIGHER HEALTH Mental Health Prevention, the department provided mental health support to 321 004 students from January 2021 to June 2023, aimed towards fighting the stigma and taboos around mental health.
“HIGHER HEALTH is also working with students from the LGBTQ+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more] community, survivors of GBV [gender-based violence] and general student and staff, and supports them with their health and psycho-social needs.
“HIGHER HEALTH is equipped with mobile clinics, nurses, community health and wellness practitioners, psychologists and peer educators, to provide support to students, and arm them with knowledge to build their resilience against the scourge of mental health,” Nzimande said.
The HIGHER HEALTH Psychosocial Support Counselling Unit equipped with experienced psychologists and counsellors also supported 23 450 students through therapies and mental health treatment, from January 2021 to June 2023.
Through HIGHER HEALTH, in July 2023, Nzimande launched the National Civic Education and Health Skills Programme’s co-curriculum designed to address a number of personal and social challenges facing youth within the PSET sector.
The online programme covers six modules, including one Mental Health module. The co-curriculum is offered in all 12 official languages which includes the sign language.
Raising awareness
Meanwhile, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) said it continues to work with all relevant stakeholders to maximise awareness on mental disorders as a disability.
This includes health promotion, disease prevention, treatment and rehabilitation in primary, secondary and tertiary care.
“The right to health must be informed by our human rights approach which calls for, among others, investment in community-based care, rehabilitation and prevention,” the department said.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the department, together with SA Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH) and other government departments, will on 17 October 2023 co-host a webinar to discuss mental health issues. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 10:10
388 views
Setting the stage for the next phase of the EPWP
Setting the stage for the next phase of the EPWP
Government’s flagship job creation programme, the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), is set for a major shake-up in the months ahead.
The programme will be contributing to building better community infrastructure, empowering participants with training and skills to enter the job market and becoming entrepreneurs as part of their exit strategies.
This was announced by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala at the EPWP Phase 5 Indaba in Pretoria on Tuesday.
The announcement comes as government is reviewing the performance of the Expanded Public Works Programme and preparing for Phase 5, which will see over five million job opportunities being created.
The programme, currently in Phase 4, has delivered over four million job opportunities.
The EPWP Phase 5 Indaba is taking take stock of the current phase, which comes to an end in March next year.
Phase 4 learnings are being unpacked and new innovative ideas are being thrashed out for Phase 5 to accelerate the creation of job opportunities that have a long lasting impact on the unemployment of South African youth.
Zikalala said the repositioning and rebranding of the EPWP will be focused on delivering services and changing the lives of communities.
Zikalala said it should move beyond quantity to quality, high impact and be sustainable to the beneficiaries.
The programme will be massified to create more job opportunities while attempting to solve the country’s key challenges such as:
- Road maintenance (pothole patching, brick paving and ensuring pothole free road networks).
- Cleaning of neighbourhoods and waste management.
- Energy (retrofitting of government buildings and solar installations).
- Fixing lifts and plumbing.
“EPWP Phase 5 should be more than just combatting unemployment. It is about rewriting the story of our youth from one of despair to one of hope, from stagnation to growth and from dependency to self-reliance.
“Our core focus should gravitate towards not just creating employment opportunities, but crafting pathways of continuous growth, learning and empowerment. Our goal goes beyond employment generation. It is about nurturing a skilled, self-reliant populace that contributes constructively to our nation’s socio-economic fabric,” Zikalala said.
The Minister said one of the many strategies that will be used to escalate the EPWP’s national effort will be to re-open the government workshops.
The revitalisation of the existing workshops will be a cornerstone of empowering and absorbing some of the graduates from the National Youth Service (NYS) from the EPWP. The workshops will be the crucibles of innovation, skills development and practical exposure.
“By integrating NYS graduates into these workshops, we aim to foster a culture of continuous learning and hands-on experience, ensuring our youth are not just employable but are drivers of innovation and change,” the Minister said.
The Minister quoted a number of global public employment programmes whose lessons will be used extensively to craft programmes that will enhance the livelihoods security of people involved in EPWP programmes.
These programmes include India’s National Rural Employment Guarantee Act that guarantees 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to a rural household, whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
Rwanda’s Umuganda cleaning programme was also cited by the Minister. The programme is a public cleaning programme that contributes to income support while keeping public places clean and hygienic.
The EPWP will be escalated to encompass priority projects like road maintenance, energy, waste recycling and cleaning of government buildings as arenas of innovation, skills development and environmental stewardship.
It will have a strong emphasis on training, enterprise development and ensuring a transformational journey for participants. The exit pathways will ensure that the journey of participants leads to future employability, self-employment, and cooperatives or enterprises that can employ more people.
“Our vision of creating exit pathways is centred on ensuring that as participants transition out of the programme, they are not stepping back into the abyss of poverty and uncertainty, but are striding confidently into avenues of self-sufficiency, entrepreneurship and meaningful employment,” Zikalala said.
The Minister said the EPWP programme will be characterised by the Khawuleza Model, where service delivery is accelerated and meaningful interventions are unleashed to ameliorate the living conditions of the vulnerable poor. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 14:41
178 views
#UniteBehind takes PRASA and transport minister to court
The organisation argues the state has a statutory and constitutional duty to devolve rail to the City of Cape Town
President Ramaphosa to appear in the NCOP
President Ramaphosa to appear in the NCOP
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to field questions related to, among other things, women empowerment and youth unemployment when he appears in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Thursday.
According to the Presidency, President Ramaphosa will outline government’s approach to these and other matters during the Questions for Oral Reply session in the NCOP.
“The President will also outline government’s progress in institutionalising gender mainstreaming across departments, provinces and districts for gender equality through responsive planning, budgeting and reporting.
“He will also address progress in advancing the economic empowerment of women, especially in townships and rural areas.
“On youth unemployment, the President will set out government's initiatives and collaboration in developing a comprehensive youth employment and economic empowerment strategy,” the Presidency said.
President Ramaphosa will also answer questions related to other key developments in the country.
“Among questions put to the President are the outcomes of the recent XV BRICS 2023 Summit and action against construction mafia. The President will discuss the outcome of the 2023 BRICS Summit and South Africa's plans to use the outcomes to advance Agenda 2063.
“Regarding the government's commitment to global climate change mitigation efforts, the President will elaborate on the balance between ensuring an uninterrupted electricity supply and contributing to climate goals,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 11:35
159 views
Mashatile to attend Tshivhase Day Celebration in Limpopo
Mashatile to attend Tshivhase Day Celebration in Limpopo
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will visit Limpopo over the weekend to deliver a keynote address at the Tshivhase Day Celebration.
The Deputy President will be attending the event in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.
The event will take place on Saturday, 14 October 2023 at the Prince Thikhathali Stadium in Tshikombani, Venda.
This year’s event will focus on and celebrate the life of Chief Frans Rasimphi Tshivhase’s contribution to the struggle for a free, just and democratic South Africa.
According to Chief Tshivhase’s profile on the Presidency website, he was born in 1900 in Mukumbani in the former Transvaal.
He took over the chieftaincy of the Tshivhase people in April 1930 after the death of his father two months earlier.
“At a time when the Land Act, which sought to dispossess black South Africans of their land, was being implemented across the country, Chief Tshivhase was resolute in his opposition to the expropriation of the land of his subjects and strident in his defence of the rights of his people.”
Throughout his life, the Presidency said he refused to have his people impoverished and waged a monumental struggle in defence of the inheritance of his people.
“Realising that the serious and difficult challenges faced by his mostly rural constituents required a political response, he was among the first traditional leaders of the period to forge strong organisational links with more urban political organisations such as the South African Communist Party, of which he was a member,” the profile reads.
Despite opposition from the apartheid government, Chief Tshivhase continued to defy the authorities by mobilising the local inhabitants against the government.
"He was forcibly removed yet again in 1952, this time to even more distant Ermelo in the eastern part of the former Transvaal, where he was reputedly slow-poisoned.”
He died at Mills Hospital in Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 11:05
61 views
DWS consults stakeholders on water strategies
DWS consults stakeholders on water strategies
Water and Sanitation Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, will on Thursday join Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) executive leaders and Standard Bank, in a workshop to engage on the implementation of the third National Water Resources Strategy (NWRS-3).
The department said the workshop will also be attended by representatives from different stakeholders in the water sector, who will interrogate detailed actions that are required to ensure financial sustainability of the water sector, as per the strategic objectives in NWRS-3.
The NWRS-3 is a legal instrument for implementing or operationalising the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998) and is also crucial for proper management of the nation’s water resources across all sectors towards achieving national government’s development objectives.
The department noted that South Africa faces many and varied water security challenges, which include deficient water infrastructure maintenance, inadequacy of funds for investment, recurrent droughts, inequitable access to water and sanitation, and a lack of skilled human capacity, especially at municipal level.
To address these challenges, the department said it continuously monitors the sector and develops responsive and proactive strategies to ensure sustainable water management.
“Through its National Water Resource Strategy, which is reviewed every five years to guide water resources management in the country, the department provides the foundation for financial sustainability on the entire water and sanitation value chain,” the department said.
The workshop will be held under the theme: “Ensuring financial sustainability of the water sector”. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/11/2023 - 08:37
138 views
Treasury extends Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme
On 31 March 2023, National Treasury's Intergovernmental Relations unit issued MFMA Circular No. 124 (https://bit.ly/43DcphL) as part of the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief. Government's debt relief package for Eskom is intended to improve the utility's balance sheet and facilitates the proposal for Eskom to write off municipal debt under strict conditions and with the guidance of the National Treasury. The primary problem government wants to solve is Eskom's financial and debt crisis which also requires a solution for non-payment of electricity consumption by municipalities.
Following the issuance of the Municipal Debt Relief MFMA Circular No. 124, the National Treasury's Intergovernmental Relations unit embarked on a national roadshow to engage provincial treasuries and municipalities on the contents of the Circular, and to encourage qualifying municipalities to apply for the debt relief programme. The workshops aimed to eliminate misconceptions, clarify areas municipalities may be unclear on, and unpack the conditions attached to participating in the programme.
Of South Africa's 257 municipalities, 136 municipalities owed Eskom R58.5bn in arrears debt as of 31 March 2023. As of 22 September 2023, 37 municipalities have applied to be part of the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme, 28 of the 37 have been approved with 9 of them still being assessed. There are 25 additional applications resting with the respective provincial treasury for submission for approval.
The closing date for the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme was set for the 30th of September 2023 and has now been extended to 31 October 2023 to accommodate more municipalities into the programme.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Treasury, Republic of South Africa.
Programme to assist unemployed people acquire driving licenses
Programme to assist unemployed people get driving licenses
The KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department has called on all unemployed citizens in the province to apply for a programme designed to assist them get drivers' licenses and increase their chances of getting a job.
As part of the provincial Transport Month campaign, Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, launched the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme that will assist more than 3 000 people across all age groups to get free learners and driving licences from Code 08 to Code 14.
“This is part of our ongoing contribution to job creation because we know that when people have licences, they stand a better chance of being employed across all sectors. We have already begun to engage with the driving schools’ executives to bring them on board and work with them in rolling out this programme,” Hlomuka said.
Hlomuka added that through the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme initiative, the department is working on the eligibility criteria for obtaining a driver licence.
To access the application form for the programme, click on https://bit.ly/3ZNieZ0, alternatively, you may access the form on the department’s website http://www.kzntransport.gov.za then click on Electronic Reading Room on the left-hand sidebar and choose forms from the options, then choose forms again. Click on the Thuthuka Skills Development Programme Application Form in order to download and fill out the form.
Completed forms may be handed in at the nearest Department of Transport Regional Office or Cost Centre office, as well as the department’s Head Office.
Applications for the programme close on 17 October 2023.
Protests by internal contract workers condemned
Meanwhile, Hlomuka has condemned the protests by the department’s internal contract workers, which has seen the attack of department officials and government cars being stoned.
The protests have been taking place at various departmental offices due to grievances surrounding the recruitment process of Road Worker Aides.
Hlomuka said, as part of S’thesha Waya Waya, more than 5 978 posts were advertised for Road Worker Aids and Grader Operators.
The MEC noted that due to the number of posts, the department knew that there would be a huge number of people applying, and in the process “a lot of dissatisfaction to many people seeking employment, even among our own internal contractor workers who are employed through the Vukayibambe Routine Road Maintenance Programme”.
“We have labour laws in the country and if people are unhappy about the recruitment process there are clear channels to follow. Where there are genuine complaints, we have directed the Head of Department to investigate any concerns and call upon our contract workers to not resort to violence,” Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 12:54
1346 views
Harnessing Clean Energy: Exploring Solar Panels for Sale
In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, the search for clean and renewable energy sources has gained significant momentum. Among the most accessible and sustainable options available today are solar panels. As the world strives to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change, the adoption of solar energy has become more …
Local government called to drive tourism investment
Local government called to drive tourism investment
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, has challenged local government to drive tourism through investment in socio-economic infrastructure.
“Our view is that local government is where tourism happens, and this is why local government is best placed to create a memorable experience for tourists,” Duma said.
Duma was speaking at the Provincial Tourism and Investment Committee (PTIC) meeting, held at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre on Tuesday.
The PTIC, which includes representatives of KZN metropolitan, district and local municipalities; CEOs of public entities and private sector organisations, seeks to deliberate on radical industry transformation matters.
The meeting aimed to assess progress in relation to investments in socio-economic infrastructure in various municipalities across the province.
In his opening remarks, Duma said local government aims to ensure that KZN is amongst the top tourist destinations.
“Each one of us here has a special role to play in making this a reality-in one way or another, we have a direct impact on the future of tourism," Duma said.
Duma said the province is lobbying and bidding to host the national and international events, as part of the stimulation of tourism.
“We hosted, successfully, the MTN 8 Finals over the weekend. We will be hosting the South African Music Awards around 17 to 18 November at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
“KZN will be put firmly on the map as we host the jewel of the creative industry. We will be doing destination marketing and activations in various parts of the province,” Duma said.
To achieve this, he said all municipalities must play a role and maximise the considerable job creating potential of the tourism sector.
“The tourism sector is a national priority sector with enormous potential to promote economic development, thus requiring of municipalities to promote it and support it. We must pride ourselves on a responsible, sustainable and transforming sector,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 15:22
26 views
Border Management Authority announces appointment of Spokesperson
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Mmemme Mogotsi to lead the Communications and Marketing unit of the BMA with effect from 01 October 2023. Ms Mogotsi is appointed as Deputy Assistant Commissioner who also assumes the role of Spokesperson for the BMA.
Ms Mogotsi is a seasoned communicator, having worked in various organisations including Standard Bank, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the 2010 FIFA World Cup Government Unit and at GCIS responsible for international media relations. She boasts an enviable experience of more than 20 years in the domestic and international communications environment. She also served as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) National Media Coordinator for South Africa as well as Presidential media support for the World Economic Forum events, amongst others.
“I wish to welcome Ms Mogotsi in this important role and confident that she has high capabilities of driving the communication and marketing programme to profile the BMA's efforts in ensuring secure borders for development. She was seconded to the BMA immediately after her appointment and demonstrated multiskilled techniques in promoting the BMA brand. I believe that Ms Mogotsi will add tremendous value to our cross-border communications initiatives”, Commissioner Masiapato said.
Ms Mogotsi has strong, proven management experience with qualifications in Journalism, Marketing and Graphic Design acquired from South African universities and has attended a number of courses abroad.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Border Management Authority, South Africa.
Zikalala outlines vision to advance EPWP outcomes
Zikalala outlines vision to advance EPWP outcomes
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has called for the restructuring of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to make it more responsive to the country’s development needs.
The Minister was addressing the two-day EPWP Phase 5 Indaba in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Zikalala emphasised that youth unemployment is still the most pressing issue across the globe, and was worsened by the devastation emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The South African youth is disproportionately affected, constituting a huge portion of the unemployed youth that feels left out,” Zikalala said.
In the same vein, the Minister said the challenges that have compromised the EPWP must be dealt with.
“…The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure cannot afford to relegate its mandate to be limited to merely reporting on targets than being actively involved itself in creating job opportunities,” Zikalala said.
The Minister said ultimately, the EPWP must lead to enhanced future employability, self-employment, and cooperatives or enterprises that can employ more people.
“Our goal goes beyond employment generation. It is about nurturing a skilled, self-reliant populace that contributes constructively to our nation’s socio-economic fabric.
“By integrating NYS [National Youth Service] graduates into these workshops, we aim to foster a culture of continuous learning and hands-on experience, ensuring our youth are not just employable, but are drivers of innovation and change.
“Our initiative to absorb some of the NYS graduates from the EPWP into the DPWI workshops is thus a cornerstone of this vision,” Zikalala said.
Breaking unemployment barriers
The Minister said some young adults, now in their 40s, have never had the opportunity to work.
“Youth unemployment is still the most pressing issue across the globe, and this was worsened by the devastation emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic. The unemployment rate remains stubbornly high at 32.6% in South Africa.
“Last month, the United Nations joined many others to describe our unemployment picture as a ticking time bomb,” the Minister said.
He said the country’s fiscal standing must be used as a “call to arms” for fostering a culture of effective coordination across all spheres of government.
“It is also an invitation to collectively devise funding mechanisms that are not just effective, but sustainable.”
EPWP of the Future
According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the two-day indaba will be an interactive session aimed at the reconceptualisation and redesigning of the EPWP of the Future.
The indaba has brought together a host of stakeholders from all spheres of government, civil society and the private sector to brainstorm on the formulation of the EPWP Phase 5 business plan, which will be presented to Cabinet before the end of the year.
Last year, the DPWI developed the EPWP Policy and it was approved by Cabinet on 31 August 2022 for public consultation.
The EPWP is one of government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods.
It 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. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 13:26
117 views
Eskom board chairperson steps down
Eskom board chairperson steps down
Eskom board chairperson, Mpho Makwana, is expected to step down from his role at the power utility’s next AGM scheduled for the end of October.
This was announced by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) in a statement.
Makwana is expected to be replaced by current board member, Mteto Nyati, as chairperson, with a handover process to be done throughout this month.
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan said: “We wish to thank Mr Makwana for his contribution during the most difficult time for Eskom. We wish him well in his future endeavours.
“Our efforts to stabilise Eskom and restructure it into three subsidiaries -- generation, transmission and distribution -- remain on track. As government, we are committed to ensuring that Eskom has the right skills, talent and experience to support our pursuit of a more secure energy future for South Africans.”
Makwana wished the power utility success.
“I am grateful for the opportunity afforded to me by the government of the Republic of South Africa to serve a second term as chairperson of the Board of Directors of Eskom SOC Limited. I wish Eskom and its people success, and thank its committed stewards for their unstinting efforts to revive the utility.
“I thank the Minister for the positive, amicable manner upon which we conclude my tenure,” Makwana said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 09:31
319 views
Surf school offers “safe haven” for boys in Muizenburg
The Local Surf Lounge Academy relies on donations from other surfers. It offers surf lessons to boys from poorer communities
Public Works to host EPWP Indaba
Public Works to host EPWP Indaba
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala and his deputy Bernice Swarts will on Tuesday host the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) Indaba in Pretoria.
The two-day indaba will be an interactive session aimed at the 'reconceptualisation' and 'redesigning' of the ‘EPWP of the Future’.
The indaba will also reflect on the EPWP Phase 4 and plan ahead for Phase 5 of the programme.
“The EPWP Indaba will bring together a host of stakeholders from all spheres of government, civil society and the private sector to brainstorm on the formulation of the EPWP Phase 5 business plan, which will be presented to Cabinet before the end of the year,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.
Last year, the DPWI developed the EPWP Policy, which was approved by Cabinet on 31 August 2022 for public consultation.
The EPWP is one of the government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods.
It 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.
EPWP participants (beneficiaries) work on different projects such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Early Childhood Development, Home Community Based Care, Extra School Support, Working on Fire, Working for Water and roads maintenance projects, among others.
The development and gazetting of the EPWP policy follows years of extensive engagements by DPWI and various stakeholders who are participating in the implementation of the EPWP.
The purpose of the EPWP Policy is to refocus the Public Employment Programme agenda of government, with policy positions and programmes of action that are clearly defined, implementable and enforceable. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 09:56
559 views
New Border Management Authority a boost for SA’s security and development
New Border Management Authority a boost for SA’s security and development
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter to the nation to highlight the importance of the New Border Management Authority (BMA) in boosting the country’s security and development.
The President said that the establishment of the BMA is a significant step towards safer communities, better law enforcement and the growth of the economy through greater trade with the country's neighbours.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that ensuring the borders are well-managed and well-protected is key to the security and development of the country.
“Maintaining the integrity of our country’s borders is key if we are to realise the aspiration of every South African to live in peace and harmony with ourselves and our neighbours.
“It is a daunting undertaking. Our land border is over 4 800 km long and is shared with six countries. We have 53 land ports of entry, 11 international airports and eight sea ports.
“The launch last week of the country’s first integrated, unified Border Management Authority (BMA) is therefore a milestone in the necessary effort to secure our borders,” the President said.
Turning to the challenges faced on our borders, the President said that they are both historical and contemporary.
He highlighted that the apartheid regime flagrantly disregarded the sovereignty of neighbouring countries to conduct illegal cross-border raids.
He added that “it abused immigration measures to harass its opponents, and enforced hated policies like influx control and the exploitation of labour from the region.”
President Ramaphosa told the nation that it then became the priority of the democratic government elected in 1994 to progressively reform the border management and migration regime, not just in the interests of economic growth and development, but also so that these reforms should reflect the broader values of the new state.
“The democratic government has worked to uphold the right of citizens to freedom of movement and residence, as well as the rights of refugees and asylum-seekers under international conventions.
“It also sought to deepen trade and investment between South Africa and other Southern African countries, and contribute to the political and economic integration of the African continent,” he said.
Over time, however, he said, the complexities of border management have resulted in an uncoordinated approach by the various authorities.
He highlighted that one of the challenges has been the sheer number of government departments and entities involved in this work. This includes the absence of a central authority which led to fragmentation of efforts and made it difficult to enforce accountability. This in turn rendered the country’s borders vulnerable.
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime has noted that South Africa has become an important transit route for organised criminal networks involved in human trafficking, drugs and small arms smuggling and various other forms of cross-border crime.
It has also noted that as the economic powerhouse of the region, South Africa continues to attract economic migrants who are undocumented, especially from the SADC region.
The President said that the proliferation of cross-border crime, illicit trade and illegal migration as a result of porous borders presents a serious threat to national security and the economy. He added that it also places strain on already stretched resources and public services, and fuels social instability.
“We have in recent times seen anti-foreigner sentiment resulting in acts of violence and harassment. As a country, we must condemn without reservation all acts of violence against foreign nationals, regardless of their immigration status, and work together to prevent such acts.
“At the same time, we must recognise that South Africans are justifiably concerned about illegal migration. Like any sovereign nation, we have the right to guarantee the integrity of our borders and provide that all who reside in our borders have a legal right to be here.
“Those who have sought refuge in South Africa or wish to live and work here are subject to immigration regulations and must adhere to the country’s laws,” the President said.
The Border Management Authority is tasked with ensuring that the country’s immigration laws are enforced, and that the borders are well-protected and ports of entry well-managed.
The new authority is now the third armed service in South Africa after the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The first officers of the new BMA border guard were deployed in July this year at vulnerable segments of the border, including at informal crossings.
Although they will be conducting border law enforcement functions, including access control, the SANDF remains responsible for border protection and safeguarding.
With this new structure in place, President Ramaphosa said the country will also be able to better prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods, curb illegal migration and human smuggling, and combat cross-border crime.
The BMA will take on the work of several other departments and agencies and is already working with the South African Revenue Service, SAPS and SANDF to integrate border management functions. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:14
714 views
Entrepreneurial sisters venture into US market
Entrepreneurial sisters venture into US market
It was a drive to explore international trade that saw entrepreneurial sisters, Michelle and Mo Mokone, grabbing an opportunity to venture into the United States of America market.
The pair are the co-owners of Mo’s Crib, a company that produces a range of handmade home décor products.
Their product range includes handwoven baskets, planters, trays, wall art and home outdoor items. It was in 2021 that the pair decided to take advantage of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a United States Trade Act, which was enacted in May 2000.
AGOA allows 35 qualifying Sub-Saharan countries to export 1 835 tariff lines - duty-free - to a significant consumer market in the US.
Michelle Mokone, who is the Operations and Supply Chain Director of Mo’s Crib, says their products are manufactured from unique materials such as ultra-durable polyvinyl chloride plastic, reclaimed from landfills and construction sites throughout South Africa, and various types of grass.
All this is underpinned by a particular interest in the protection of the environment.
“Our mission is to leverage the craftsmanship of South African artisans to help accelerate awareness about the most pressing environmental and social issues faced today.
“With every sale, we are creating economic and educational opportunities for South African men and women, while diverting plastic waste from the natural resources of our hometown of Pretoria,” Michelle said.
In addition to safeguarding the natural environment, the Mokone sisters are deeply committed to the development of the people in their community.
“We are striving to create opportunities and make a meaningful impact. We would like to grow our footprint beyond the USA and enter new markets, such as Europe and the United Arab Emirates. We have our own internal plan to create 20 new jobs within the next two to three years,” Michelle said.
She said a forwarding agent assisted them with the compliance and administration process to booking various containers.
“Since 2021, we have shipped a total of eight containers to the USA. We are on track to ship two more containers before year end of 2023. We also regularly ship a container to fulfil our orders for our online store, which is fulfilled through our warehouse in New Jersey.
“Although shipping is relatively expensive, especially for a small business that is 100% self-funded, we have benefited from the AGOA Act through significant market access. Currently, the USA orders constitute 60% of our overall revenue,” she said.
South Africa is working to secure a renewal and extension of AGOA, including through direct engagement between government and business representatives, as well as with members of the US Senate and Congress across party-political lines.
During a recent parliamentary briefing, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, told Members of Parliament that South Africa’s participation in AGOA benefits neighbouring countries through shared value chains. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 10:54
408 views
Child Support Grant must be increased to reduce child poverty, review finds
Government could face court action for failing in its constitutional duty
Human Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday
Human Settlements launches Title Deeds Friday
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has called on public servants and representatives - together with the relevant institutions - to work around the clock to fast track the processing and issuing of title deeds to the rightful beneficiaries.
Kubayi made the call at the handing over of title deeds at Mabopane Sports Complex in Tshwane on Friday.
The event formed part of the launch of Title Deeds Friday campaign aimed at mobilising beneficiaries of government-subsidised homes -- Breaking New Ground (BNG) -- to collect their title deeds at municipal offices.
Kubayi, who was accompanied by Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete; Tshwane Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Ofentse Madzabatela, and local councillors handed over title deeds to some community members of Mabopane, Winterveld and Ga-Rankuwa (MAWIGA), north of Tshwane.
The community members of MAWIGA have been advocating to be recognised as the rightful owners of houses located around Ga-Rankuwa, Mabopane, Kudube and Winterveldt.
The Minister declared MAWIGA a Ministerial Project and established a committee with the community to resolve the ownership and transfer for 8 000 uncontested properties held by the City of Tshwane.
The over 14 000 properties, including contested ones, date back to pre-1994.
During the event, Kubayi provided feedback to the community on the roll-out status. She said a phased approach has been adopted to avoid keeping communities waiting due to red tape and intergovernmental disputes.
Kubayi said government has declared war on the title deeds backlog, particularly as President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the need to get rid of red tape within the State.
“We are deliberately launching this campaign here in MAWIGA to re-emphasise our message that as a government, we have heard the cries of this community and others, who are yet to receive their title deeds. Every parent deserves to know that his or her children have a place to call home.
“These title deeds are legal documents that assure you these properties are yours. Today, you can be at peace that the houses you have lived in and raised your families in over the years are yours and are valuable assets to hand over to future generations,” Kubayi said.
She said the handing over of title deeds is also a testament that “when government partners with community members, nothing is impossible to achieve”.
The MAWIGA Ministerial Project was declared in 2022, with a committee established and tasked with the responsibility of facilitating the transfer of uncontested properties to the rightful owners.
Kubayi said government is using MAWIGA to showcase the importance of working together with the community to resolve their challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Moota Mfulwane, said they are happy that finally, working together with government, they made some breakthroughs.
“Although some of those who were also waiting for this day have since unfortunately passed on, we are hoping as a community that the targeted handover of 14 000 title deeds will be realised,” Mfulwane said.
Meanwhile, the Ministry has undertaken to convene an urgent meeting with municipalities to unlock existing bottlenecks.
Kubayi said interventions are required, working with all three spheres of government, including the urgent establishment of townships to pave the way for the registration of title deeds.
The Minster made a call to all councillors to champion the Title Deeds Friday campaign by working with municipal officials to issue all title deeds on hand. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:13
336 views
DWS withdraws government waterworks draft regulations
DWS withdraws government waterworks draft regulations
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced the withdrawal of the proposed regulations relating to access and use of government waterworks and surrounding State-owned land for recreational purposes.
The draft regulations were published in the Government Gazette on 24 March 2023, for a second round of public comments to solicit inputs from various stakeholders and members of the public who have interests in accessing and using the departmental infrastructures for recreational purposes.
“The draft regulations were withdrawn after considering the public comments received during public consultations as well as from written comments. Newly proposed regulations will be reissued once the reviewing process is concluded,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/09/2023 - 11:59
125 views
President Ramaphosa to receive Census 2022 results
President Ramaphosa to receive Census 2022 results
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to receive South Africa's Census 2022 national results from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA).
The Statistician-General, Risenga Maluleke, will officially hand over the report to the President and announce the results of the population and housing count to the country at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday
Census 2022, according to the Presidency, was the fourth population and housing count in post-apartheid South Africa, with the first conducted in 1996, with subsequent censuses being conducted in 2001 and 2011.
The population and housing census was conducted in February 2022 and will provide comprehensive data on population size, demographic trends, and other service delivery-related information.
Stats SA will be following the trend adopted by many countries and data will be released in phases.
For phase one, the Census 2022 launch will only cover reports and indicators at the national, provincial, district and local municipality levels.
“Census data is an important data source used for planning and evidence-based decision making by government and various sectors of society.
“The census population count provides data on the demographic, economic and social makeup of the country. Furthermore, findings from censuses are key in tracking service delivery programmes over time," said the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 10/08/2023 - 11:24
123 views
Kzn Mec Celebrates With Futurelife® At Factory Opening
Leading food company, wholly-owned by PepsiCo South Africa, FUTURELIFE®, today celebrated the grand opening of its new cutting-edge manufacturing facility at Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This event brought together key government officials, business leaders, and FUTURELIFE® employees. The opening of the facility showcases FUTURELIFE®’s resilience, innovation, and steadfast commitment to …