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Mop up operations, assessments to continue until all victims are accounted for

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Mop up operations, assessments to continue until all victims are accounted for

As mop up operations and disaster assessments continue following torrential downpours in some parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has called on all dedicated teams on the ground, including speakers and mayors, to ensure that every affected citizen is profiled.

According to reports, over 600 households across the province have been reported damaged - this includes over 134 houses reported to be destroyed in Somkhele and KwaMyeki in Mtubatuba Local Municipality areas. Some of the houses were completely damaged, leaving families homeless. Residents have also reported the loss of valuable livestock, including goats, chickens and cows.

During a visit in Mtubatuba, Dube-Ncube said the province has pledged psychological support to all those affected, and the assessments will continue until all victims are accounted for.

"We are grateful that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has stepped in to assist in clearing the affected areas, as some roads are blocked by fallen poles and cables, with debris scattered throughout. 

“We also appreciate the speedy responses by other social partners like the South African Red Cross who are on the ground with government. While we cannot determine the full extent of the damage, from the reports we have received, it is substantial," Dube-Ncube said.

The provincial Department of Human Settlements will fast track the process of providing temporary structures to families whose houses were completely destroyed.

Other areas, including the Harry Gwala District and the Greater Kokstad Municipality suffered massive destruction due to heavy rains and hailstorm in the Pakkies Location. 

Dube-Ncube noted that about six households were affected, and “fortunately, no fatalities, injuries, or displaced people have been reported at this stage”.

“In the Umzimkhulu Municipality, four households were affected by heavy rains in Madakeni location, with no fatalities at this point. In the Umgungundlovu District, 23 households in the Rosetta informal settlement under Mpofana Local Municipality were affected. 

“In Ulundi, under the Zululand District Municipality a block of rental rooms was blown away by the strong winds. The storm also caused damage in some parts of uThukela District Municipality,” Dube-Ncube said.

She encouraged all affected citizens to reach out to their ward councillors or other public representatives as the province prepares interventions. 

“On behalf of the provincial government, we wish to convey our sincere condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones in this disaster,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 10:45

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Didiza to commemorate World Food day in KZN

Location: News

Didiza to commemorate World Food day in KZN

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, together with KwaZulu-Natal Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Super Zuma, and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), will on Thursday commemorate World Food Day (WFD) at iLembe District Municipality.

The event, which will take place at Esixeni Sports Field, aims to inform communities on ways to mitigate the impact of rising food prices through the establishment of food gardens and supporting agricultural cooperatives in attaining food security, job creation and economic growth. 

The WFD also aims to deepen public awareness of the plight of the hungry and undernourished in the world, and to encourage communities to take measures to combat hunger. 

The day will be observed under the theme: 'Water is Life, Water is Food. Leave No One Behind', highlighting the critical role of water for life on earth and water as the foundation of food.

Didiza and senior government officials will visit projects and households. 

“It is also expected that some of the indigent households in identified communities will receive food parcels and agricultural support,” the department said in a statement. 

About World Food Day

World Food Day is commemorated annually on 16 October in remembrance of founding the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations in 1945 as an organisation that deals with global food and agricultural issues.

The conference of FAO proclaimed World Food Day in 1979 to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty.

The objectives of World Food Day are:

•    To inform South Africans on the National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security.
•    To heighten public awareness on issues such as absence and scarcity of food in the country and to strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty.
•    To promote food production and to stimulate national, bi-lateral, trans-national and non-governmental initiatives.
•    To encourage research and technology development for the development of symbiotic ecological food production systems to ensure sustainable food production.
•    To enhance the participation of rural people, particularly women and the under privileged in decisions and events impacting their living conditions.
•    To heighten public awareness on the government programmes aimed at halving hunger in South Africa.
•    To raise awareness of the public regarding the contribution of indigenous forests to food security and nutrition. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 10/25/2023 - 12:22

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Premier calls for faster assessment of rain-damaged schools in KZN

Location: News

Premier calls for faster assessment of rain-damaged schools in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the provincial Education Department must speed up its assessment of schools that were damaged by the recent heavy rains, which battered most parts of the province over the weekend.

Dube-Ncube made the call during her visit to the uMtubatuba Local Municipality in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, where she conveyed her condolences to the victims and families, who lost their loved ones and belongings during the heavy rains.

“We’ve asked the Department of Public Works, working with the Department of Education, to ensure that we immediately attend to the schools because we don’t want learners to be disturbed, especially as they prepare for writing exams, and we know that the primary classes must write so that they can make space for matric exams to continue,” Dube-Ncube said. 

She said in uMtubatuba alone, more than 120 households have been affected, with the majority of them partially damaged. More than 40 were completely damaged, leaving the families homeless.

According to the provincial Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) preliminary reports, at least five people have lost their lives in uMtubatuba due to thunderstorms, which blew roofs off houses, damaging infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges and cars.

The department said places, including community halls and churches, have been opened to the public, while others opted to find alternative accommodation with relatives.

Meanwhile, the Premier has convened an urgent meeting to discuss interventions to assist the families affected. The meeting was attended by COGTA MEC, Bongi Sithole-Moloi and Human Settlements MEC, Sipho Nkosi. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 11:43

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Inter-faith community called on to encourage crime afflicted communities

Location: News

Inter-faith community called on to help crime afflicted communities

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has reiterated the call to the inter-faith community to continue praying for all communities afflicted by crime, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), rape and murder.

“It is my view that crime prevention cannot be left to be the responsibility of government alone. Let us all hold hands and work together,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube made the call during the Provincial Youth Committee Gospel Arts and Culture Competition, held in Mthwalume, South Coast on Sunday. Participants in the competition showcased their talents and competitive spirit in gospel music, arts and culture.

The Premier said violence meted out against women in particular, is a shame and is a threat to all social cohesion and nation-building efforts.

“Today’s event reminds us that our communities are plagued by the scourge of GBVF and Crime in general. Crime here in the Mthwalume area in recent years and GBVF in particular has been a major worry. 

“While the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele has assured me that the crimes of murder especially GBVF are being attended to, I urge the community to work closely with the SAPS [South African Police Service] to do everything to address all the sources of crime in this area and in the rest of the province,” she said.

The Premier said the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), places power in the hands of artists.

“With access to technology artists can now interact directly with their audience, create songs and post to all streaming platforms without the help of a manager or record label. This can take place whether you are Johannesburg or New York or even in a backroom here in Mthwalume.

“While the labels and record companies still do have a place, artists are now positioned better to attract success before labels get to them. Today’s event is therefore more than just entertainment or competition, but is an opportunity to minister, and also to provide economic empowerment opportunities in music and the performing arts to artists from all over our province,” the Premier said.

She added that bringing a gospel competition to Mthwalume is a demonstration that gospel music, which is one of the most popular genres in South Africa, belongs to the people. She said it underlines her belief that development of rural areas is as important as addressing the issue of services in rural areas. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:51

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Deadline looms for KZN emerging designer incubation applications

Location: News

Deadline looms for KZN emerging designer incubation applications

Emerging designers in KwaZulu-Natal have only four days left to submit their applications to be part of the Emerging Designers Incubation Programme.

The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) is looking for KZN-based emerging designers who are currently running a formal or informal creative design business, including crafters, fashion designers, and accessories designers, among others, to take part on the incubation programme.

To apply for the programme, applicants should click on the link: https://forms.gle/PZgeNDyTR2J1Ng2L6.

The closing date for application submissions is 27 October 2023.

Global exporter passport programme

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition in partnership with KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs; KZN Trade and Investment, and Zululand Chamber of Commerce have invited prospective Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within and around Richards Bay to participate in the Global Exporter Passport Programme.

The programme is designed to provide exporter development training to enterprises that wish to expand their export opportunities and be export ready and sustainable in export markets. 

Thr programme will be undertaken in three phases, including introduction to exporting; planning for exports and market selection; and market entry analysis. Phase one of the programme will take place from 21 to 24 November 2023, phase two will be from 30 January 2024 to 02 February 2024, while phase three will take place from 20 February to 21 February 2024.

Consideration will be given to SMEs that are in existence and have been operational for at least one year and enterprises belong to a previously disadvantaged population group.

“Applicants must be directly involved in the daily operations of the business,” the department said.

Applicants must send an email to Gugulethu.Gumede@kznedtea.gov.za requesting an assessment form.

The closing date is 03 November 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 12:51

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Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

Location: News

Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management teams are currently assisting people affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mtubatuba in the northern part of the province, at the weekend.

According to the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’ (CoGTA) initial report, at least four people from Mtubatuba lost their lives due to a thunderstorm accompanied by strong winds over the weekend. 

The storm ripped roofs off houses and caused damage to infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges, and vehicles.

“Up to now more than 70 houses in the Somkhele and KwaMyeki areas have been identified as destroyed. Some houses suffered complete damage, rendering families homeless. 

“There are also reports of damaged vehicles and in certain areas Eskom poles and cables are scattered across roads and people's properties. Community halls and churches have opened their doors to the public, while others have sought alternative accommodation with relatives,” the department said in a statement.

In the Harry Gwala District, the Greater Kokstad Municipality has also experienced heavy rains and a hailstorm in the Pakkies Location. Approximately six households were affected, with no reported fatalities, injuries, or displaced individuals at the time of the report. 

In the Umzimkhulu Municipality, heavy rains in the Madakeni location affected four households, with no fatalities reported, while in the Umgungundlovu District, about 23 households in the Rosetta informal settlement under the Mpofana Local Municipality were affected by the hailstorm on Saturday.

In Ulundi, under the Zululand District Municipality, a block of rental rooms was blown away by strong winds, with no reported injuries.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has conveyed her sincere condolences to the families and friends affected by the incidents. 

Sithole-Moloi said disaster management teams will continue on-site assessments and provide relief including mattresses, blankets, food, and plastic sheeting.

“We are collaborating with other government departments, such as social development and human settlements, to aid all victims. Our teams, in conjunction with municipalities, will persist in assessments to determine necessary government intervention. 

“We extend condolences to those who lost loved ones during this period. While we acknowledge that certain incidents are unavoidable, such as the thunderstorm with strong winds that devastated houses in Mtubatuba, we encourage communities to take safety precautions, such as relocating to safer areas where possible,” Sithole-Moloi said. 

As heavy rains persist across various parts of the province, the MEC said provincial disaster management teams remain on high alert.

She said ongoing assessments will lead to an updated report, once the preliminary findings are consolidated.

Meanwhile, the MEC will today visit the affected families in Mtubatuba to convey her condolences to the families, and also conduct an assessment of the extensive damages in the area, where several homes were destroyed. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:27

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Durban beaches closed following damage to shark nets

Location: News

Durban beaches closed following damage to shark nets

The eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality has closed all Durban beaches until further notice after the recent heavy rains in some parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

The municipality said the decision to close the beaches follows advice from the Natal Sharks Board.

Murky water which is full of logs and other unsafe objects, as a result of the heavy rains, has resulted in the shark nets at most beaches breaking - making beaches unsafe for the public to use.

“All water activities are prohibited. However, residents can still enjoy other activities along the beach that do not require them to come into contact with sea water,” the municipality said in a statement.

The municipality said teams are hard at work fixing the nets and infrastructure that was damaged by the heavy rains and urged the beachgoers to heed the warning.

All city’s beaches are therefore closed until further notice.

Camps Bay tidal pool

Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town has announced that the city’s Coastal Management branch will commence with work at the Camps Bay tidal pool on Monday, 23 October 2023.

The city will be levelling the beach that was badly washed out due to the recent storms.

The City’s Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews said during the recent storms the adjacent river flooded and washed away a significant portion of the northern section of the Camps Bay tidal pool beach, depositing a significant amount of sand in the near shore. 

“This has resulted in a large sand bank that is impacting the functional space of the pool. On Monday the city will commence mechanical activities to remove as much of the sand bank as practically possible and to reinstate the beach. 

“These works will require lowering the water level in the pool. As such, the pool will experience lower water levels during the execution of the works and will take a day or two to fill up to capacity depending on the tides and swell size post the work,” Andrews said.

The Deputy Mayor urged all visitors and regular users of the tidal pool to visit another facility, while the work is underway.

“While the pool will not be closed in its entirety, it is recommended that the public consider visiting one of the city’s other facilities during this period, such as Maidens Cove, Saunders Rocks or Milton Pool. We thank the public for their patience while we do our best to restore this facility as efficiently as possible,” Andrews said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 11:04

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Majority of independent poultry, egg producers unaffected by bird flu

Location: News

Majority of independent poultry, egg producers unaffected by bird flu

Cabinet has noted that the majority of independent poultry and egg producers have not been affected by avian flu as several South African farmers work around the clock to curb the outbreak. 

This is according to the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who said they were updated on containment measures to limit the spread and impact of avian influenza. 

“Cabinet has noted that majority of independent poultry and egg producers have not been affected by avian flu,” said the Minister who was briefing the media on Thursday about the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held yesterday. 

The outbreak, according to the Minster, has “severely” affected the economy and the poultry sector. 

“The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza, has met with retailers and the South African Poultry Association to discuss possible solutions in the short and the medium term to increase egg and chicken supply,” said Ntshavheni. 

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), avian influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects poultry and wild birds. 

The NICD said there are currently two different strains that are causing avian influenza outbreaks in South Africa, these are influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A (H7N6).

The public health institute noted that the current influenza A(H5N1) has been ongoing since April 2023.

Meanwhile, the NICD said the influenza A(H7N6) has been reported since June 2023, with 50 outbreaks to date recorded in poultry farms in the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal and non-poultry birds in Gauteng.

“Internationally, sporadic cases of influenza A(H5N1) infection have been reported in humans, related to outbreaks in birds but infection in humans remains very rare,” it said in a statement.

Globally, the NICD said only eight cases of influenza A(H5N1) in humans have been reported to the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2023, despite large outbreaks in poultry and wild birds across the globe. 

“These cases have been linked to close contact with infected birds such as handling, culling, slaughtering or processing. 

“Current circulating strains of avian influenza have not been shown to transmit from person to person.” 

However, the institute said the risk of transmission of influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A(H7N6) from infected birds to humans is extremely low. 

“In the uncommon instance where avian influenza is transmitted to humans, the most common route of transmission of avian influenza is airborne, through aerosolisation of virus particles from live birds or during the culling process.”

Any persons with known or suspected close contact with dead or sick birds, especially birds with confirmed A(H5N1) or A(H7N6) infection and present with upper or lower respiratory tract symptoms such as cough, runny nose, scratchy throat, or pneumonia and/or conjunctivitis should be investigated, the NICD advised. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

Gabisile
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 11:18

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KZN Executive commits to continued improved audit outcomes

Location: News

KZN Executive commits to continued improved audit outcomes

The KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council says provincial departments will continue to improve their audit outcomes in future administrative terms.

“In keeping up with the improved audit outcomes for the 2022/23 financial year where, among others, 86% of the auditees submitted financial statements free from material misstatements, compared to 50% in the previous administration, the Executive Council declared that there will be more positive outcomes in the future,” said KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

She said while the Executive Council had laid a solid foundation for future clean audits, there was a need to provide guidance to those departments that were struggling to realise positive outcomes. 

“This is about service delivery to our people and a government that is responsive to the needs of the people, anchored on compliance, accountability and transparency, among other pillars,” Dube-Ncube said.

The KwaZulu-Natal Business Unit Leader for the Auditor-General Nomalungelo Mkhize presented awards to the departments and entities that received clean audit outcomes during a ceremony on Wednesday. 

The awards recognise good performance and good governance in the financial management. 

Six departments, including the Office of the Premier; Provincial Treasury; Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism; Community Safety; and Agriculture and Rural Development, received clean audit outcomes for the 2022/23 audit cycle.

The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature also received a clean audit.

Twelve provincial public entities - including 10 which are under the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, one in Human Settlements and one in Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs - also received awards from the Auditor General for attaining clean audits.

The Auditor General lauded the provincial coordinating departments, including the Office of the Premier and the Provincial Treasury, for maintaining clean audit status thus setting a commendable example for the province. 

The Auditor General said by coordinating departments the leadership had assisted other departments to improve undesirable or sustain positive audit outcomes though the various initiatives deployed.

The Premier commended the Director-General of the Province, Dr Nonhlanhla Mkhize, for providing seamless interaction between the Executive Council and government. 

“Dr Mkhize is a diligent public servant and a strong bridge that not only connects government, through Heads of Department and Cabinet, but ensures that there is implementation of resolutions of the Executive Council. Clean governance is one of the core resolutions of Cabinet,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said government’s full migration to digitisation will eliminate human errors and assist the Auditor General perform its duties with ease, speed and diligence. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 11:55

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Multi-planting season to ensure sustainable food security

Location: News

Multi-planting season to ensure sustainable food security

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has once again placed agriculture at the centre of its efforts to ensure sustainable food security, job creation and economic growth. 

Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube unveiled the 2023/2024 Provincial Multi-Planting Season, a "government turnkey, fool-proof solution-driven campaign", aimed at mobilising resources, providing support, and access to finance, information and markets in the agricultural sector.

The Multi-Planting Season, led by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, is a holistic approach to aid communities and smallholder farmers by ensuring that they have sufficient, safe and nutritious food. 

Dube-Ncube emphasised the need to find creative ways to cushion the country’s economy, ensure food sustainability and create jobs.

The Premier said this as the country grapples with rising food costs and high levels of unemployment, exacerbated by global geopolitical and market dynamics, including severe weather patterns.

“Agriculture is at the forefront of our strategy. Therefore, launching the multi-panting season is not just an event, but a programme that will change the lives of our people, especially the youth and rural communities,” Dube Ncube said.

The Premier said over 20 000 hectares of land will be planted this season throughout KwaZulu-Natal, with yellow maize, dry beans and all kinds of vegetables. Farmers will be linked to markets where they will sell their quality produce.

She said through the District Development Model, all champion MECs will be rolling out the provincial programme within their respective districts and communities. 

Local communities will also be afforded opportunities to partner with the department to receive expert advice, farming implements, seedlings and traditional land for cooperative projects.

“Food security is a national challenge. KwaZulu-Natal province has several households in the poorest rural areas that are facing food insecurity. Therefore, the intervention by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to assist indigent families and farmers, affording them an opportunity to participate in the mainstream economy of the province is timely.

“This is a season for food security. We will do away with poverty and hunger and we want our people to create their own wealth through working the soil. We also want to further support the youth, who are interested in the agricultural sector, realise success and benefit from the sector’s value chain,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube also encouraged communities to work together with ward committees to access information about the provincial government’s programmes.

Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Super Zuma, said the rain that fell over Impendle this week was a significant sign of success for the planting season. 

Zuma reiterated his department’s commitment to continue to assist the rural communities to fight poverty and inequality.

“We will fight hunger and provide food security with our One Home One Garden Programme. There must not be a home without a garden,” Zuma said. 

He said the department has been speaking to religious leaders to promote the One Church One Garden programme to their congregants and they have made a plea to them to partner with the department. 

The department has also taken the programme to schools - One School One Garden - and has created jobs through the programme.

Zuma has visited the Ntshiyabantu Communal Estate, a 110-hectare cooperative which will be planting yellow maize this season, where he distributed tractors, fertiliser, manure and other chemicals to benefit all 67 members.

Cooperative Chairperson, Reuben Nkontwana, expressed his gratitude to the department’s intervention, noting the high level of unemployment in rural areas.

“Now that we have land and guaranteed assistance from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, not one family will go hungry. We are hoping for more rain so that we have plenty produce that will bring us enough money to support our families and have food to eat,” said an elated Nkontwana. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 10/19/2023 - 14:02

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Durban ICC scoops major accolades at World Travel Awards

Location: News

Durban ICC scoops major accolades at World Travel Awards

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has congratulated Durban and Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) for scooping major awards at the World Travel Awards held in Dubai.

The ICC walked away with Africa's Leading Meetings and Conference Centre and Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination Awards, beating the likes of Accra (Ghana), Lagos (Nigeria), Marrakech (Morocco), Nairobi (Kenya), Zanzibar (Tanzania), Kigali (Rwanda), Cape Town and Johannesburg in both awards.

The glittering 30th World Travel Awards, held on Sunday, marked seven years on the trot since Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, has been winning this award back-to-back from 2017. 

The World Travel Awards are regarded as the most prestigious event in the global travel calendar, attended by the industry's key decision-makers, influencers and media. They serve to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

Dube-Ncube said the awards are a great vote of confidence by the global travel and tourism sector in KZN province, the City of Durban, and the Durban International Convention Centre facility. 

“We appreciate this honour but importantly value the sterling and untiring work put in by our entity, KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau for continuously attracting business events to our province. Such achievements are not a given nor come to us for free, we have to work hard to achieve them” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier also noted with excitement that in the 23-year history of Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre Award category, the Durban ICC has won this title for the 18th time.
 
“This vote of confidence by the World Travel Awards organisation in the Durban ICC is as bold and significant as the establishment of the Durban International Convention Centre itself. During the formative years of our democracy the city’s fathers took a daring and futuristic view of making the Convention Centre one of the single largest investments in the future growth and development of the city.
 
“Today we are reaping the rewards of such decisions. Naming it after Africa’s first Nobel Laureate, Inkosi Albert Luthuli is indicative of the global stature of this facility. Hosting these awards in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC will be a befitting tribute to the vision of our forebears,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 10/19/2023 - 12:36

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National School of Government turns 10

Location: News

National School of Government turns 10

The National School of Government (NSG) turns 10 years this month and a number of activities are taking place this week to mark the milestone as well as the contribution of the school towards public sector capacity building and performance.

Principal of the NSG, Professor Busani Ngcaweni, said the school will use the celebrations to reach out to its target market in the public sector and raise awareness of the work of the School in broader society.

“The NSG has an important role to play in the drive towards a more professional, efficient, effective and caring public sector. Together with our partners, we look forward to working even harder to attain the goals set by government to achieve an ethical, capable developmental state,” said Ngcaweni.

The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA). The proclamation made the NSG a national government department under the portfolio of the Minister of Public Service and Administration.

The NSG will mark its 10th year anniversary with a celebratory event on 19 October 2023, among other events and the NSG Open Week.

The School said it has scored several achievements in the past 10 years of existence. The institution has delivered training to more than 526 000 participants, generating revenue from course fees of more than R1 billion. 

“The past three years since 2020 have been a period of renewal and repositioning, with the NSG engaging in a robust marketing and visibility drive within its target market, public servants, as well as the broader public sector and academia in South Africa and beyond,” the National School of Government said in a statement.

"The school hosted several high impact engagements such as the Master Classes delivered virtually and face-to-face, thus earning a space as a thought leader on governance and the building of a professional public sector.

“The NSG continues to ensure good governance and financial management, with unqualified and clean audits being registered in consecutive years,” the NSG said. 

The NSG has proven to be resilient during difficult times. Through innovation and agility, the school overcame the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic lockdown that was declared in March 2020 caused booking cancellations and a low uptake of courses.

“The NSG COVID-19 response plan prioritised digital and online learning interventions as well as the installation and application of digital tools.

“The NSG also saw an unprecedented number of online enrolments for eLearning courses. For the period April 2020 to December 2021, 123 000 learners enrolled for the eLearning courses. Over the last three years alone, there has been eLearning enrolments of more than 194 000 learners,” it said.

The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental state the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).

The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase to middle and senior management as well as executive management.

its expanded mandate also includes Directors-General, Deputy Directors-General and political office-bearers, where the focus includes building expertise on economic governance, political oversight and accountability.

The past three years have seen Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Mayors and councillors participating in the programmes of the school as part of the concerted effort at improving state capacity at the highest level.  

The delivery model includes classroom-based learning, practice-based learning, e-Learning, webinars, student exchanges and dialogue with actors in the public and private sector.

The work of the NSG is also supported by various local and international partners.

The NSG committed in its Strategic Plan 2019-2024 to use partnerships with public and private institutions in South Africa and the rest of the world to deliver quality education, training and development interventions to expand learning opportunities through access to international expertise and represent the NSG in the global knowledge exchange network in order to position it globally and expand its international footprint and recognition as a thought leader. The School works with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and other Management Development Institutes in South Africa, Africa and around the world.

These partnerships have seen public officials engage in exchanges with similar and leading institutions from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas.

Flagship programmes

The NSG delivers high-level executive education programmes as well as compulsory programmes for public servants.

The Cabinet-approved Economic Governance School for Members of the Executive programme  targets Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Members of Executive Councils, Mayors and Members of Mayoral Councils. The purpose of the programme is to enable Members of the Executive to reflect and broaden perspectives on critical topics as they work towards building a capable developmental state and to achieve the country’s economic recovery.

The NSG also delivers Etella, which means ‘lead’ in Sesotho, a leadership programme for Accounting Officers, namely Directors-General, Heads of Departments (HoDs) in provincial government, Municipal Managers, Chief Executive Officers of public enterprises and Ambassadors as Heads of Missions.

All persons wishing to be appointed into the senior management service in government must successfully complete the compulsory Nyukela programme offered by the NSG, with effect from 1 April 2020. In the 2022/23 financial year, a total of 7450 learners enrolled for the course, with 5523 learners successfully completing the programme. The target group includes those individuals who aspire to work in the senior management service for the first time, and those progressing from one level within the SMS to another, who have not yet done this programme.

The Ethics in the Public Service course was made compulsory for all public servants and has been promoted extensively online as one of the NSG’s flagship programmes. It continues to attract many public servants, which augurs well for Priority One, to build an ethical, capable and developmental state. In the 2022/23 financial year, there was a total enrolment of 16753 participants. A total of 13765 learners completed the course, which reflected an 82% achievement.

The NSG programmes also extend to traditional leadership. A total of 73 traditional leaders attended the NSG Art of Facilitation programme in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The programme seeks to empower traditional leaders to act as economic change agents in their communities and to participate in leading rural development interventions that create sustainable jobs and community wealth. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/18/2023 - 10:26

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Safeguarding the future of those who teach

Location: News

Safeguarding the future of those who teach

While one may no longer remember the name of the classroom teacher’s pet, chances are that one will never forget the name of that special teacher who changed the course of one’s life.

While we grow up to leave our school tomfooleries behind, teachers continue to leave an indelible mark in the lives of pupils.

“Passionate teachers often inspire and motivate their students. Passion for the subject matter and a genuine interest in the well-being of students can greatly impact the effectiveness of teaching,” said acting Chief Director of Education Human Resource Development at the Department of Basic Education, Lala Maje.

While teachers work hard to shape learners into the adults of tomorrow, who is helping newly qualified teachers to transition into the classroom environment?

This is where the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) New Teacher Induction Programme (NTIP) comes in.

The programme is intended to support new teachers who are placed in schools within their first two years of permanent employment.

“NTIP is a programme that introduces the new teacher to the teaching profession, to the resources available, to the support that the DBE and all stakeholders avail to the teachers,” said Maje.

Teachers have to register on the learning management system for the programme. The one-year programme comprises seven modules that are linked to the Professional Teaching Standards. 

The Professional Teaching Standards and the Ethical Teaching Standards forms the basis of teaching being a profession and that is managed and guided by the South African Council of Educators (SACE). 

A teacher must register with SACE before they can practice in schools.  

The programme also supports SACE in ensuring that Professional Teaching Standards and the code of ethics are infused in the daily life of teachers,” said Maje.

The induction is based on four pillars namely mentoring, training, professional development and peer support.

The programme was set up after the Teacher Education Summit held by the DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2009.

Since its inception in 2017, the partnership between the DBE and Flemish Association for Development Cooperation and Technical Assistance (VVOB) has enabled the development of material and programmes which led to the 2020 school calendar year pilot of the programme.

The DBE has also worked with provincial education departments and partnered with the SACE, JET Education Services, the North-West University and the University of Witwatersrand to develop the programme for all new teachers that join the teaching profession.

Support

New teachers are also provided with mentors that are identified by their respective schools.

Feedback received is that teachers are appreciative of the support provided by the programme.

“The teachers find that the topics covered assist them to deal with a number of issues, classroom management, discipline in school and classrooms, diversity management, inclusive teaching, as well as work and life balance, to mention but a few.  Teachers want the programme, it provides real life practical experience and examples,” said Maje.

She added that while all the provinces have been supporting new teachers, this was not standardised.

“All provinces have been supporting new teachers; it was just not standardised at national.  The support was in the form of workshops on curriculum, on general human resource matters, many webinars on teacher wellbeing and wellness. 

“There was no national programme that a teacher can register and complete with evidence that indeed the new teacher underwent an induction programme. The DBE then partnered with VVOB to design a thoroughly researched programme and make it available for new teachers for free.”

Progress

The programme is being implemented on a phased in approach.

“Since the 2020 pilot, there was a round table in March 2023 where a decision was [taken] that the programme be phased in in four provinces [namely the] Free State, North West, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

“The other five provinces are implementing however not under the tight monitoring of DBE.  This is allowing them to be fully ready when we implement in their provinces in 2024,” she explained.

She added that the provincial education departments are part of the interprovincial meetings that DBE holds with the nine provinces on a monthly basis.

“It should also be noted that all provinces are supporting new teachers.  The difference with the model brought by the DBE is [a] common standard across all provincial education departments, as well as the fact that the NTIP model has four pillars.”

Teachers’ Month

In South Africa October is Teachers’ Month and on 5 October, the country joined the world in commemorating World Teachers’ Day.

The day which is commemorated annually, aims to raise awareness, understanding and appreciation for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development across the globe.

The day has been declared jointly by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to celebrate the critical work that teachers do.

At the National Teachers’ Awards, held on World Teachers’ Day, the South African government reaffirmed its commitment to reinforcing teacher support and prioritising the professional growth of those who are the key drivers of basic education. 

“Such a posture is critical in that it boosts their personal prowess and propels our schools towards unparalleled achievements. The wellness of all public servants in the Department of Basic Education must as such remain a priority,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said at the 23rd edition of the awards.

The awards honour teachers who have demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment in different areas of their work.

Recognition and experience

Maje who was a teacher herself, said recognition for teachers is essential not only for morale but also for attracting and retaining talented individuals in the teaching profession.

“When teachers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be motivated, innovative, and dedicated to their students' success.”

Speaking at a media briefing earlier this month, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga said that education plays a critical role in providing the country with critical skills that will enable economic growth while also fighting poverty and unemployment.

“Teachers are at the centre of this critical imperative. UNESCO repeatedly stated that the quality of any education system is as good as the quality of its teachers. The continuous improvements that we have experienced within our education system broadly and in our schooling in particular is largely due to the efforts and sacrifices of our teachers,” said the Minister.

The Minister said while the education system is experiencing severe challenges including backlogs in infrastructure development, overcrowding and shortage of other educational resources, “it is our teachers who have made the center to hold.”

Maje said efforts to enhance the recognition of teachers often involve a combination of policy changes, increased investment in education, and societal shifts in perception.  She also referred to the Integrated Strategic Planning Framework for Teacher Education and Development. The primary outcome of the plan is to improve the quality of teacher education and development in order to improve the quality of teachers and teaching.

Planning and organising things in time are some of the lessons Maje has learned over the course of the years as a teacher.

She also notes “the knowledge that as a teacher you determine the future of the country with the content that you offer to the young minds.” She further adds that “the limitations of the teacher can be detrimental to development of the young mind.”

It is also important for teachers to keep learning all the time since knowledge is evolving and for them to be active participants in the matters of their respective communities.

Maje also called on teachers to take care of themselves.

“Achieving a work-life balance is an ongoing challenge for many teachers. Learning to prioritise self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between personal and professional life is important for sustained success in the field.”

While learner support is a critical ingredient for success, support for future unforgettable teachers is equally as important. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 09:59

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Bowmans appoints Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg Private Equity Practice

Location: MyPR

Leading African law firm Bowmans is further strengthening its private equity presence through the appointment of Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg office. ‘Zingisa has an impressive array of skills and experience, including an excellent understanding of risk management in ESG matters, from which our private equity clients stand to benefit’ says Ezra Davids, …

Read moreBowmans appoints Zingisa Motloba as partner in its Johannesburg Private Equity Practice

Durban to host official BRICS Games 2023 opening ceremony this afternoon  

Location: News

Durban to host official BRICS Games 2023 opening ceremony this afternoon  

The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government will host the 5th BRICS Games official opening ceremony today. 

The ceremony will take place at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban. 

The latest edition of the 2023 BRICS Games will see young athletes aged between 19 and 21 across BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) nations battling for various honours within five sporting codes. 

These include swimming, badminton, table tennis, tennis and beach volleyball. 

The games will be played simultaneously across Kings Park Swimming Pool, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Curro Hillcrest High School and Bay of Plenty from October 18 to 21. 

“Following the BRICS leaders’ recommendation, the 2023 BRICS Games will be an expanded championship programme which will see more sporting and the inclusion of Paralympians in the code of tennis for the first time at the games. 

“The opening ceremony will officially unveil competing teams from all the BRICS nations.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 10:47

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Disaster response teams on the ground amid rains

Location: News

Disaster response teams on the ground amid rains

Communities in the Amathole District Municipality (ADM) in the Eastern Cape have been urged to remain vigilant amid the rainy weather conditions. 

The municipality said it has experienced heavy rains in most parts of the district, which has caused severe damage to houses and caused roads and bridges to overflow. 

“Communities are urged to remain vigilant and on high alert during this time and at all costs avoid crossing overflowing bridges, roads and rivers. ADM disaster teams are on the ground conducting assessments working closely with the local councillors. 

“The extent of damage will only be clear once this has been concluded. Affected communities are encouraged to report damages to their ward councillors to expedite ADM disaster response,” said municipal spokesperson, Nonceba Madikizela-Vuso. 

Durban motorists must exercise caution

Meanwhile, in Durban, the eThekwini Municipality has urged motorists to buckle up, switch on headlights and drive safely as many roads have been affected by heavy rainfall.

A number of roads were closed on Monday night due to heavy rainfall.

The affected roads include Curnick Ndlovu Highway N2 bridge, N2 North bound in Umlazi, R102 and Glen Anil, M4 southern freeway, M25 towards Phoenix and KwaMashu Highway, Kloof Village Road and Maytime offramp in Hillcrest, Duffs Road and Glen Anil in Durban North, Sparks Road from Sherwood towards Randles Road, M4 South from Victoria Embankment, Plamview Drive near Palmview Primary School, and South Coast Road near Delta. 

According to the South African Weather Services outlook for 16 to 17 October 2023, showers and thundershowers will be experienced in the eastern parts of the country with widespread rains over the eastern parts on 16 October 2023 and over the north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal on 17 October 2023. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Tue, 10/17/2023 - 11:26

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Read moreDisaster response teams on the ground amid rains

Heavy rainfall warning for KZN

Location: News

Heavy rainfall warning for KZN

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has cautioned residents regarding heavy rainfall that could potentially lead to flooding in the coastal and midlands districts of the province.

The warning comes after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) raised the alert level to orange, Level 6, the highest warning level.

According to the warning issued by SAWS for Monday, 16 October, heavy and disruptive rainfall can be expected along the KZN coast and its adjacent interior, particularly the southern coast. 

“Scattered widespread showers and thundershowers are expected over KZN. More than 50mm of rain is expected, which may lead to the flooding of roads, bridges and formal and informal settlements,” the SAWS warned. 

The department said the anticipated rainfall, which is expected to persist from Monday afternoon until midnight, could result in damage within the municipalities, including eThekwini Metro, Ugu, Harry Gwala, Ilembe, and Umgungundlovu District Municipalities.

COGTA spokesperson, Siboniso Mngadi, said the department has convened an urgent meeting with the Joint Operation Cluster (JOC), which includes all municipalities that may be affected, and a disaster team to put in place proactive measures.

“Furthermore, all disaster management centres have been activated to monitor the weather pattern and risk, and respond to any unforeseen events. The JOC teams will assess the readiness status of all municipalities likely to be impacted,” Mngadi said.

Mngadi has advised residents in low-lying areas to relocate to safer areas, if necessary.

“We appeal to all residents to closely monitor the situation and take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of lives during this period of heavy rainfall. Livestock owners are urged to find secure locations and adhere to safety measures that will be communicated through disaster centres.” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 09:58

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KZN Premier welcomes provincial 4IR commission

Location: News

KZN Premier welcomes provincial 4IR commission

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the Provincial Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Commission is a game-changer in the march towards positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a smart province. 

Speaking at the 4IR Commission inaugural meeting at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Mayville, Durban, on Friday, Dube-Ncube said the establishment of the commission is a "good progression from the approval of the Provincial Digital Transformation Strategy by the Executive Council in May 2020", whose main objectives is to guide the province towards government automation, integration and digitisation of services.

All this, Dube-Ncube said, is aimed at making service delivery efficient, and seizing economic opportunities and innovation to drive the digital transformation strategy of the province.

The 4IR Commission was appointed by the Premier after endorsement by the Executive Council in May 2023.The main target is to develop an integrated provincial 4IR strategy to achieve competitiveness in the key economic sectors, including agriculture, the oceans economy, finance, mining, manufacturing, information and communications technology (ICT) and electronics, tourism and business with science, technology and innovation, as a cross-cutting enabler.

Dube-Ncube said the commission will also accelerate the implementation of the Provincial Digital Transformation Strategy, and gain insight from professionals within the ICT sector.

The Premier said the commission represents a significant step forward in the province's journey towards embracing the transformative power of technology and innovation in a rapidly changing world and bridging the digital divide.
 
In establishing the 4IR Commission, Dube-Ncube said the province is demonstrating its commitment to harnessing the vast potential of this new era. 

“We have assembled a distinguished group of experts, including innovators and thought-leaders, who will serve as the guiding force in navigating this uncharted territory. Their collective knowledge and wisdom will be instrumental in shaping our nation's approach to the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” Dube-Ncube said.

The 4IR Commission comprises the following members:
•    Dr Leon Rolls: Chairperson of the 4IR Commission.
•    Professor Chris Adendorff: Deputy Chairperson of the Commission.
•    Langelihle Zulu: Commissioner.
•    Dr Stella Bvuma: Commissioner.
•    Dr Sibongiseni Thosetjane: Commissioner.

Rolls underscored the need for the 4IR Commission to build hope for a better and smarter future for KZN.

“We must be a connected smart province with a thriving digital economy. The time for talking and unending learning from other countries is over. We are going to vigorously implement this strategy now,” Rolls said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 11:19

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Teacher supply and demand by 2030: Securing SA’s future

Location: News

Teacher supply and demand by 2030: Securing SA’s future

South African teachers aren’t operating on survival mode since the public sector has solved the teacher shortages, writes Angie Motshekga.

As South Africa marks Teachers' Month, coinciding with last week's ceremony honouring the best in our teaching cohort, it's imperative to recognise the vital role teachers play in moulding our nation's future. The public sector's successful resolution of teacher shortages means our educators are no longer merely on “survival mode” even though resource constraints remain. Their impact, frequently extending beyond the classroom, is immeasurable. The significance of the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme in bolstering South Africa's teaching profession is commendable. Here in black and white are facts and figures about teachers in SA today.

Since its inception, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme has facilitated the training and integration of new teachers into our educational system. From 2007, marking the year when bursars completed their studies and became eligible for placement in 2008, up to the most recent data for 2023, a cumulative total of 52 099 teachers have successfully completed their training through the Funza Lushaka programme.

This underscores its success in supporting teachers and rejuvenating the nation’s educational system with well-trained professionals.

The impact of Funza Lushaka on teacher placement: A decade in review

As we delve deeper into the data related to the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, another significant aspect comes to the fore – the successful placement of these trained educators within our educational system. This ensures that our investment in human capital translates into tangible benefits for our learners and the broader education sector.

From 2013 to 31 August 2023, spanning a decade and seven months, we have witnessed impressive placement rates across our Provincial Education Departments (PEDs).

Eastern Cape: Out of 6 608 trained teachers, 4 869 have been successfully placed, representing a placement rate of 74%. However, 1 739 remain unplaced.

Free State: Here, we see a higher placement percentage. Of the 3 092 educators, 2 752 have found positions, marking an 89% placement rate, leaving only 340 unplaced.

Gauteng: This province has seen the training of 9 423 teachers, with 8 002 of them (or 85%) being effectively integrated into schools. However, 1 421 are still seeking placement.

KwaZulu-Natal: With 9 012 trained educators, 6 908 have been placed (77%), while 2 104 await placement.

Limpopo: This province boasts one of the highest placement rates at 94%. Of 4 623 educators, 4 347 have been placed, leaving a mere 276 unplaced.

Mpumalanga: Here, 4 006 teachers were trained, and 3161 (or 79%) have been placed, leaving 845 awaiting placement.

North West: An impressive 96% placement rate is observed here. Of the 2 543 educators, 2 436 have found their roles in the education system, with only 107 still unplaced.

Northern Cape: Another province with an excellent placement rate of 96%. Of 1 166 educators, 1 115 have been effectively placed, and 51 remain unplaced.

Western Cape: From 6 867 educators, 5,127 have been successfully placed, making the rate 75%. However, 1 740 educators are still seeking placement.

Of the 47 340 educators trained over the past decade and seven months, 38 717 have been effectively placed within our educational system, representing an overall placement rate of 82%. While this achievement is worth celebrating, the data also underscores the need to address the 8 623 educators awaiting placement.

In other words, since 2013, 38 717 out of 47 340 Funza Lushaka graduates have found placement in schools, representing approximately 81.78% of these graduates. This translates to an average placement of about 4 300 graduates per annum. To put this into perspective, Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme graduates placed in schools account for 20-25% of all graduates absorbed into the public education system each year. This figure is a testament to the programme’s significant contribution to rejuvenating the teaching profession.

The financial magnitude of investing in tomorrow’s teachers

However, a programme of this magnitude comes with substantial financial commitment. Between 2007 and 2022, the cumulative financial outlay for the scheme across all participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) amounts to a staggering R13 115 645 580.95.

These figures highlight the vast number of future educators being nurtured through the programme and the immense financial commitment to ensuring their readiness to shape the next generation. It’s essential to view this not merely as an expenditure but as a significant investment in the future of South Africa’s basic education system.

Investing in today’s educators for a brighter tomorrow

In 2023 alone, across all HEIs, some 10864 students have been funded to pursue their dreams of becoming educators. This comes at the cost of the fiscus of R1 164 539 332.47. This figure showcases a substantial investment into nurturing teaching professionals who will go on to play an integral role in our basic education system.

It’s worth noting that behind each bursary is an aspiring educator, a beacon of hope equipped to inspire our nation’s youth. This investment signifies belief in the transformative power of education and those who deliver it.

Teacher supply and demand by 2030

The cepartment’s research indicates two major factors: the ageing teaching workforce, which necessitates a new influx of educators, and a surge in learner numbers due to population growth. Given the current learner-educator ratio (LER) of 29.8:1, we employ around 405 000 educators in the public sector. However, by 2030, to maintain this LER, we’d require about 428 000 educators. Failing to meet this could result in the LER spiking to 31.6:1, signifying larger class sizes and potentially diminishing the quality of education. The challenge is further compounded when considering that funding plays a significant role in our ability to recruit and maintain these educators.

But here’s the silver lining: there’s already a surplus. Every year, while 31,000 fresh teacher graduates step out, only 18 000 to 20 000 are absorbed into the public sector, creating a significant reservoir.

However, quantity alone isn’t the solution. As the curriculum evolves with the Three Streams Model focusing on technical vocational and technical occupational streams, the quality and specialisation of training become paramount. Our bursary schemes must pivot, possibly minimising the general academic stream and emphasising the new curricular needs.

*Angie Motshekga is the Basic Education Minister in South Africa.

Matona
Mon, 10/16/2023 - 09:59

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Read moreTeacher supply and demand by 2030: Securing SA’s future