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President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended Huawei for the work it is doing to cultivate local digital talent through the Learned, Engaged, Accelerated Professionals (LEAP) Programme, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) academies and DigiSchool projects.

The President was speaking at the launch of the Huawei South Africa Innovation Centre held at the Huawei Office Park in Woodmead, Sandton, on Thursday.

The Huawei Innovation Centre serves to foster and encourage joint innovations with Huawei’s South African partners, app developers and Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the ICT space.

The centre is also a showcase of Huawei’s latest and most innovative digital technologies and solutions.

The President, who toured the centre in the morning, said what he saw and heard, is both impressive and encouraging.

“This centre brings together Huawei’s different business units in a collaboration hub with local partners, app developers and ICT-focused SMMEs. For South Africa, expanding digital infrastructure is one of the primary engines of economic growth [and] the development of information technology is key to the competitiveness of our economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President also welcomed Huawei plans to invest substantially in data centres and cyber security industries in Africa.

By adopting the range of cutting-edge technologies being pioneered by companies such as Huawei, he said, South Africa and the continent will be able to leapfrog into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

“It is our hope that this Innovation Centre will be a springboard for the launch of new local ICT enterprises that create jobs. We hope it will be a springboard to new business processes that grow our economy and support our national developmental goals,” President Ramaphosa said.

Digital innovation inextricably linked to nation’s development

President Ramaphosa also noted that not only can new digital technologies such as AI, Big Data and machine learning provide a platform for economic growth, job creation and self-employment; they can also vastly improve government service delivery.

“The application of digital technologies to improve production processes spans a broad range of economic sectors from mining to ports to transportation and others. Last year, for example, the first 5G coal mine was launched in South Africa through a partnership with Huawei, its carrier and industry partners. 

“This centre is a signal of Huawei’s confidence in the South African economy and its potential. The digital technology and business services sectors are key pillars of South Africa’s investment strategy,” President Ramaphosa said.

To stimulate investment in these sectors, the President said, government has focused on several structural reforms.

He said the actions taken include the auction of high-demand spectrum that took place last year, which – alongside digital migration “will significantly expand access to broadband and bring down data costs.”

Other priorities include the development of an ICT and Digital Economy Masterplan and National Data and Cloud Policy.

The President noted that South Africa has a robust and sophisticated ICT sector with expertise in data centres, including cloud computing and storage, and rapidly expanding wireless and fibre infrastructure.

The country also has strong regulatory frameworks around cybersecurity, intellectual property, and the protection of personal information, amongst others.

“According to the 2023 State of the ICT Sector in South Africa, published by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa, the sector’s revenue continues to increase by approximately R25.5 billion over a five-year period. This makes the ICT sector one of our most attractive industries for investment, with substantial growth potential,” the President highlighted.

As we grow the digital economy, he said, it is our expectation that this growth in revenue should be matched by an increase in the number of jobs the sector creates. – SAnews.gov.za

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Office says he welcomes the judgment by the Constitutional Court affirming his adherence to due process and fairness in suspending Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane. 

“The suspension followed the decision by the National Assembly to institute Section 194 proceedings against Advocate Mkhwebane,” the brief statement read on Thursday. 

In a unanimous judgment, the highest court in the land found that there was a rational reason and that the President “stood to gain nothing” for him to precautionary suspend Mkhwebane.

The apex court’s ruling reverses the Western Cape High Court judgment that found that President Ramaphosa's decision was unlawful and invalid in September last year. – SAnews.gov.za

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has urged people in possession of Mainstay and Terra Firma multi-hinge aluminium ladders, Model JC 403, 150 kg, to immediately stop using them and to return the products to the point of purchase for a refund.

Mainstay ladders were distributed by Game stores, while Terra Firma ladders were distributed by Makro stores. 

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commission said it was informed by Massmart that they ran a comprehensive set of tests at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) revealing that the ladders did not comply with safety standards, as required by SANS 50131 (SABS) relating to minimum material thickness and static load. 

“Failure to meet these requirements renders the ladders unsafe and may lead to injuries or fatalities,” Acting Commissioner, Thezi Mabuza said. 

The recall includes five models of aluminum telescoping ladders that can be used in five different positions (twin step ladder, stairway step ladder, extension ladder, wall ladder and as two scaffold bases).

The date code is stamped on the inside of the outer leg of the ladder, beneath the bottom step.

The NCC said to date, 57 000 units were sold in South Africa with Mainstay ladders also exported to Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Malawi, and Tanzania.   

Mabuza emphasised that it is the responsibility of the importers and retailers to ensure that goods comply with all applicable laws and standards. 

“The Consumer Protection Act requires the recall of goods which pose any risk of harm to the consumers. We encourage consumers who have bought the ladders at Makro or Game, to immediately stop use and return these for a refund. The Commission is monitoring the recall based on its Recall Guidelines,” Mabuza said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, says skills for the Changing World is crucial for Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS) to remain on the path for sustainable economic growth. 

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a unique opportunity for Africa and BRICS to explore further areas of cooperation in terms of skills development,” Nzimande said.

Addressing the 10th Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Education, currently underway in Mpumalanga, Nzimande argued that the AfCFTA is going to be a game changer on how BRICS Member States conduct trade with the African continent.

Held under the theme “Responsive and Relevant Education and Training in the Current Global Context”, the BRICS education engagement, forms part of the build-up to the 15th BRICS Summit scheduled to take place from 22-24 August 2023 in Johannesburg.

Nzimande said South Africa has put forward eight thematic areas to be discussed during this year’s meeting of Ministers of Education.

These include climate change, entrepreneurship development, skills for the changing world, mutual recognition of qualifications, out-of-school youth, labour market intelligence, early childhood development and university global ranking.

Nzimande urged the Member States to make concrete proposals on how the BRICS education system can assist to contribute meaningfully in all the thematic areas. 

In the area of mutual recognition of qualifications, the Minister highlighted that since the adoption of the Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education, BRICS Member States need to discuss possible cooperation aimed at accelerating ratification by countries and its prompt implementation. 

Nzimande also challenged BRICS countries to put systems in place to encourage mobility of students and education experts and academics. 

He said South Africa is at an advanced stage in terms of concluding relevant constitutional obligations to accede to the Global Convention. 

The Global Convention establishes universal principles for fair, transparent and non-discriminatory recognition of higher education qualifications and qualifications giving access to higher education and offering avenues for further study and employment. 

With provisions on non-traditional learning modes, the Global Convention also facilitates the recognition of qualifications, prior learning and study periods earned remotely. In addition, it promotes the recognition of refugees’ qualifications, even in cases where documentary evidence is lacking.

“We must continue to encourage BRICS academics to research relevant topics within BRICS including the implications of the proposed BRICS currency and the role of the New Development Bank of BRICS. It is the research community of BRICS that is going to assist to elaborate this issue better,” Nzimande said.

In recognition of the theme for the 15th BRICS Summit “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism” Nzimande said the Department of Higher Education and Training has decided to invite Namibia as a guest of the 10th Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Education.

He noted that South Africa cannot prosper in isolation leaving the entire African continent behind, especially the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. 

“This is also the premise of our country’s foreign policy in relation to the consolidation of the African agenda.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says government is committed to enhancing tourism investment and safety to attract more visitors to South Africa.  

“We will work to find and action solutions to anything that stands in the way of that objective to grow tourism’s contribution to the country’s economy as espoused in the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP),” she stressed.

As part of her oversight duties, De Lille on Wednesday visited various sites within the Kruger National Park (KNP) to inspect investment projects by her Ministry and the private sector. 

“With our vast natural beauty and wildlife, the KNP is a must-see attraction on the bucket lists of travellers from all over the world and the country. 

“As with all tourist attractions, it is vital that this attraction is maintained to provide tourists with a world-class and authentically South African experience.”

The visit aimed to chart a way forward on how the KNP and all government spheres can unite to enhance tourism’s performance to achieve progress on the key priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

The priorities, De Lille said, include tour operator licenses, e-visas, tourism safety, the Tourism Equity Fund, infrastructure development, increasing the volume and value of domestic and international tourism, and the Tourism Sector Master Plan. 

These, according to the Minister, are all aimed at increasing demand for tourism and boosting the number of domestic and international tourists visiting South Africa.  

“It is well known that unfortunately there have been many crime incidents in and around the Kruger with criminals attacking tourists and this is a matter that we take very seriously, not only because we want to safeguard tourists. 

“But we cannot have criminality stand in the way of our tourist attractions thriving because that is how we can ultimately create more jobs for our people and bring prosperity for all.”

The Minister labelled tourism as an important sector in the country’s economy due to South Africa’s attractiveness to travellers and the thousands of jobs created. 

She said she also received a briefing from the South African National Parks (SANParks) management on general tourism activities and safety matters. 

The Minister has since committed to work with the national, provincial and local government, private sector and communities to enhance safety in and around the KNP.

In May this year, she held a National Tourism Safety Forum meeting with all MECs for Tourism and the private sector on plans to enhance safety and how to communicate these security measures worldwide. 

Meanwhile, she said the department is finalising a training curriculum which is set to deploy more than 2 200 tourism safety monitors to key tourist attractions and hotspot areas across the country in the coming months. 

De Lille also announced that her department has set aside R174 million for this programme to improve safety around the 59 tourism hotspots identified by the National Tourism Safety Forum. 

Of these, 350 will be stationed at SANParks establishments, with 100 to be deployed to the KNP. 

Green Tourism Incentive Programme

She also gave an update on the department’s Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP), a key project to address climate change and water and electricity constraints in the country. 

The GTIP, she said, will see the department co-funding energy and water retrofitting projects at privately owned tourism establishments to facilitate more sustainable operations and uninterrupted visitor experiences. 

She announced that they opened eight GTIP application windows to date, with the most recent application window closing on 30 June 2023. 

“While applications received during the eight application window are currently being processed, the previous seven application windows of the GTIP already yielded 130 approved applications with a total grant value of R76.1 million disbursed by the department for the installation of energy and water saving measures at tourism establishments across the country,” she explained.

Meanwhile, before the rolling out of the GTIP programme, the department provided eight state-owned tourist attractions with solar photovoltaic (PV) installations. 

These sites included Robben Island, three National Botanical Gardens in the Western Cape, Free State and Northern Cape as well as four sites in KNP in Mpumalanga at the tune of R98.5 million for a combined total of 2.7 megawatts (MW) of installed renewable energy generating capacity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, is attending the 43rd Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council in Kenya, Nairobi. 

The meeting, which will take place today and Friday, 13 July 2023, will gather Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the AU. 

“The AU Commission has also invited the Ministers of Finance because the agenda of the Executive Council is dominated by matters of the AU budget and finances,” the department explained. 

The gathering will take place under the 2023 AU theme, ‘Accelerating of AfCFTA Implementation’.

“The Executive Council is expected to consider the reports on the financial state of the organisation in terms of the implementation of its key priorities including, maintaining peace and security on the continent, implementing Agenda 2063, improving Africa’s socio-economic status, addressing the devastating impact of climate change in Africa, advocating for human rights and good governance across the continent,” the department explained. 

In addition, the Executive Council will receive a briefing on the progress made in the implementation of the AU’s institutional reforms and Agenda 2063.

They will also receive a report on the candidatures that have expressed their wish to represent Africa in the various organisations and institutions in the international system.

The committee is preceded by the 3rd Extra-Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers (COM) of Trade meeting on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).  

South Africa is represented by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister, Fikile Majola. 

In addition, the 5th meeting of the Mid-Year Coordination Council (MYCM) will take place on 16 July 2023.

“This is a meeting at the Heads of State level but only attended by members of the Bureau of the AU Assembly, heads of the various regional economic communities, heads of AU organs, and specialised agencies. 

“Heads of State and former Heads of State who are champions of thematic issues are also invited.”

Pandor will also use the opportunity of her visit to Kenya to have bilateral meetings with some of her counterparts. – SAnews.gov.za
 

By Tasneem Carrim

In 1990, the winds of change were slowly sweeping our nation, and on 11 February 1990 South Africa was abuzz with the news of the release of former President Nelson Mandela.

Having spent most of his adult life behind bars, Nelson Mandela was more myth than a man.  He along with others such as OR Tambo were giant figures in our national psyche, but few people had ever seen or interacted with them. 

On 11 February 1990 all this changed; with the eyes of the entire world upon us, South Africans waited with baited breath to meet the man behind the legend.

When Nelson Mandela finally emerged from the gates of the then Victor-Verster Prison in Cape Town he greeted the expectant crowd with a salute. The first steps he took as a free man energised the crowd, and the ripples of excitement echoed throughout our nation.  With those first few steps, he broke the shackles of hundreds of years of oppression and set our nation on the path to freedom and democracy.

The release of Nelson Mandela signalled a turning point in our country; it set us on a new path and banished the evil apartheid system to the pages of history.

Those of us who lived through this jubilant and hopeful time in our nation would be forgiven for thinking at the time that freedom and democracy would cure all society’s ills. This was of course never going to be the case, and as we have since learned, democracy is a process, not a destination.

Many of the deep-rooted problems that we inherited such as poverty, inequality and unemployment continue to plague us today, and the many sins of the past still shape our shared future. Building a country from the ground up was never going to be easy, pre 1994 South Africa was the pariah of the world and technically bankrupt. 

Nelson Mandela and our other leaders in 1994 recognised that to build anew we had to turn our diverse population into a strength.  They recognised that we were better together, that we needed each other, and that working together we could begin to envision a new future together.   

This process has continued unabated since 1994 and although we have undeniably made massive strides, much still needs to be done. We are therefore lucky to be able to call on the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela to assist us as we strive to move South Africa forward. Throughout his life, he continually emphasised the need for national unity, social cohesion and nation building.  This vision allowed us to emerge from the mire of apartheid into a free and democratic nation in 1994. 

We should also never forget that our Constitution lays the foundation for an open society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights.

Shaping a common and prosperous future therefore lies in our hands.  Nelson Mandela famously said on the occasion of his 90th birthday at a concert in Hyde Park, London; “It’s in your hands now”.

This sentiment of all of us taking the lead in shaping the future we want to see is echoed in the annual commemoration of Mandela Month, where we are all called upon to work together for a better and equitable society for all. 

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Madiba’s passing in December 2013. To commemorate this, the Nelson Mandela Foundation has themed the 10-Year Remembrance call to action “The Legacy Lives on Through You”.

Some might well ask but how can I make a difference, or what can I do to build on a legacy of a person who was clearly extraordinary? 

It is true that Madiba did great things and his legacy continues to inspire today.  However, throughout his life he simply worked for the benefit of others and to better our nation.

We have that power as individuals and our actions can make massive changes.  By living responsibly and indeed taking responsibility for our actions, we can make a difference. One area where we can all contribute is to help in keeping the lights on.   Do the right thing and report metals theft and illegal connections, switch off the lights during peak consumption periods, refuse to buy stolen goods.  These seemingly small and insignificant actions can make a massive difference, especially when multiplied across communities and our nation.

The same principle of communities and individuals looking out for each other apply in all aspects of life.  Let us therefore build on Madiba’s legacy by staying true to our founding ideals of justice, equality and a non-racial South Africa. We have always been stronger when we are united and together we can begin to build a society where all people are given the chance to live their dreams.

By working together, we can find solutions to our growing social and economic challenges. South Africa belongs to all who live in it, and we have no choice but to move forward together to ensure a sustainable and vibrant future for all.

Government therefore calls on all South Africans to ensure that we live the ideal of ensuring that “The Legacy Lives on Through You”.

* Tasneem Carrim is the Chief Director of Policy and Research at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has described the late Ronald “Ronnie” Mamoepa as a dear friend, comrade and struggle hero.  

Mashatile, who spoke on Wednesday at the official launch of the Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation, told delegates at the event that he shared fond memories with his late friend. 

“When it was not fashionable, Ronnie, from the dusty streets of Pheli [Atteridgeville], joined the movement to fight for freedom. We are indeed today almost 30 years into freedom and democracy, and this is because of the sacrifices and contributions of Ronnie and his generation.  

“The youth at the time never stood on the side. They, like Ronnie, opposed the apartheid tyranny. He understood that his future and that of his offspring and generations depended on him.”

According to the country’s second-in-command, Mamoepa was part of a group that helped build the ANC in Gauteng. 

Because of his skills and capacity to communicate effectively, Mamoepa transcended into government to become one of the best communicators.

Mamoepa’s last job at the time of his passing in 2017 was then Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson.

“It is because of people like Ronnie and Thabo Masebe that today we have the best communication machinery for government through the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).”

He believes that for them to be honoured, the GCIS, the National School of Government and institutions of learning should incorporate talks about political communication and research to learn about their legacy.

The Deputy President thanked the Freedom Park senior management for hosting the commemoration through the establishment of the foundation.

The guests also observed the wreath-laying at the Wall of Names at Freedom Park, immortalising the name and legacy of Mamoepa amongst the esteemed heroes and heroines who contributed to the liberation struggle. 

These include Chris Hani, Ruth First, Zachariah Keodirelang “ZK” Matthews, Govan Mbeki, Lilian Ngoyi, Charlotte Maxeke and many more. 

Held under the ‘Recommitting the legacy of Ronnie Mamoepa through social activism’ theme, the Deputy President said the event was a clarion call for all citizens to emulate the undying spirit of selflessness, dedication and humanity that the late spokesperson championed.    

“Ronnie, the griot, was one of the most esteemed struggle heroes, a defender of freedom and democracy, a seasoned government communicator, and a dedicated public servant.” 

He said the foundation was based on the principles that the late comrade upheld.

“Ronnie was a man of exceptional courage, unwavering determination, and deep compassion. He was a relentless advocate for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed.”

The Deputy President recalled how he boldly spoke out against injustice, stood up against discrimination, and fought for a better, more inclusive society.

“His legacy serves as a beacon of hope for those who continue to carry on his work. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we must never lose sight of our shared responsibility to create more equitable and just communities.

“On this important occasion, we should perhaps ask ourselves this question: How would Ronnie have responded to the current social-political challenges facing our country and would he be pleased with the current political paradigm?”

He is of the view that the man he knew would be concerned about the plight of the people.  

“He would be advocating for unity and accountability. He would be asking questions about how far we are in dealing with the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequalities.”

He also commended the GCIS for honouring the fallen hero by renaming their Press Room the Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre.

The Deputy President also shared words of comfort to Mamoepa’s widow and children. 

“We will also ensure that the legacy of our brother, friend and comrade, Ronnie lives on. Ronnie is a hero of our struggle. He is worthy of being commemorated forever.” – SAnews.gov.za

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi and Lesotho’s Foreign Affairs and International Relations Minister, Mpotjoana Lejone, have committed to speed up the disbursement of funds to Basotho ex-mine workers. 

Nxesi said the compensation of former mine workers is a big Southern African Development Community (SADC) issue, as former mine workers are owed by the mining companies, with some being injured. 

“The main issue is the mechanism to use on how we channel compensation to the recipients,” Nxesi said. 

He said the Department of Employment and Labour will continue to work with the Department of Health and Department of Mineral Resources and Energy in the search for beneficiaries and speeding up payments.

Nxesi was speaking in Pretoria on Tuesday during the start of a visit by Lejone, who is leading a delegation of Lesotho government officials. 

The delegation will be in South Africa for three days. They will also meet with the Compensation Fund, the Unemployment Insurance Fund, National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA). 

The Minister said the meeting was long-overdue and the visit would allow for the strengthening of existing relations, and learning and sharing of information and each other’s experiences.

On labour migration, Nxesi said the matter is a complex one that needs cooperation.

“We have good bilateral relations with Lesotho and do not want to spoil that. We have to recognise the reality that Basotho are entrenched in the development and history of this country. When we come with migration policy, it will not be a one size fits all. How we deal with migration with Lesotho will be different from other SADC countries,” he said.

Lejone reiterated Nxesi’s view that the relationship between the two countries is similar to that of a bond between a "mother and child". He said Lesotho is learning a lot from its developed neighbour.

“We need to take stock of milestones achieved together, as well as setting other milestones in the future. We need to review our old Memoranda of Understanding to align that with new developments. 

“South Africa stands to benefit immensely from the Highlands Water Project and we are working on a number of projects in agriculture production, energy and exploration for collaboration with South Africa,” Lejone said. 

The Minister said these projects will ease the unemployment burden and minimise migration between the two countries. 

He said remittances account for 15% of Lesotho’s gross domestic product (GDP).

According to Lejone, while the Basotho workers have carried the burden of disease and injury, there have been benefits to Lesotho’s economy.

Lejone said the Lesotho government supports legal migration. With the Lesotho Special Permit dispensation due to expire in December, Lejone said the country is looking forward to the legal extension of the stay of Basotho workers in SA.

He said his country is looking at convening a dialogue in September, which will include a South Africa delegation, to share best practices on how to speed up payments of benefits to ex-mineworkers. – SAnews.gov.za
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will unveil two statues of the Father of the Nation on 18 July 2023 in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, as part of the International Nelson Mandela Month celebrations. 

The programme spearheaded by the Nelson Mandela Museum is in partnership with the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture; OR Tambo District Municipality and King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality.

According to the statement, the statues will be unveiled at the Nelson Mandela Museum, Bhunga Building in Mthatha and Nelson Mandela Museum Youth and Heritage Centre in Qunu.

“The two statues of Nelson Mandela will resemble Nelson Mandela as a Statesman and the other as a traditionalist.”

On the same day, the museum and department will hand over a library at Zingisa Comprehensive High School as part of “Making a Difference” in the community.

This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day will be commemorated under the theme: “It is in Your Hands”. 

The planned International Mandela Day activities will kick start with an International Mandela Day public lecture at the Nelson Mandela Museum Youth and Heritage Centre in Qunu on 17 July 2023 where Minister Zizi Kodwa will be in attendance. 

Meanwhile, government has called on citizens to contribute to turning the tide against food insecurity and climate change in honour of Madiba’s legacy.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in a statement on Tuesday, described former President Nelson Mandela as a leader who abhorred injustice. 

“He is known mainly for the personal sacrifices that he and fellow freedom fighters made towards achieving democracy in South Africa. 

“Even outside of prison, Mandela continued the fight against injustice, especially poverty, through various means, including mobilising local and international friends to support fundraising efforts for food insecurity and education, among others.” 

According to government, Mandela viewed anti-poverty efforts as the protection of human rights.

“He once said, ‘Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life’.

“As such, South Africans will do well to honour him by emulating these ideals not only during Mandela Month but make them part of their daily lives.” 

During this month, government will host several events led by Ministers, Premiers, Deputy Ministers, Directors-General and public servants in all provinces.

These events include the planting of trees and the donation of blankets, clothes and food. 

The programmes will also support communities by starting food gardens. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Former Mozambique Finance Minister Manuel Chang has been extradited to the United States of America (USA) to face fraud and corruption charges.

Chang is expected to stand trial in New York for his alleged role in the $2 billion loan scheme meant to boost the country’s maritime economy.

The alleged looting of the scheme led to the Southern African country defaulting on its sovereign debt, sending it into economic crisis.

According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD), Chang was detained some five years ago at OR Tambo International Airport and both Mozambique and the USA applied for his extradition in the Pretoria High Court.

“Mr Chang was detained by South African Police Services at Oliver Reginald Tambo International Airport on December 30, 2018, following a provisional arrest warrant issued by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York. The United States and the Republic of Mozambique requested his extradition on various charges.

“After several hearings in 2019 by the Magistrates Court in Kempton Park and the 2019 and 2021 High Court of South Africa Gauteng Local Division, the Republic of Mozambique filed applications with the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court of South Africa,” the department said.

According to the DJCOD, that long legal wrangle was settled earlier this year when a court ruled that he be extradited to the USA instead of Mozambique.

“In May 2023, the Constitutional Court denied leave to appeal, citing a lack of reasonable prospects of success after reviewing an application for condonation and an application for leave to appeal,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on businesses and other bodies to support rural economic development by hiring graduates and assisting them to start their own businesses. 

“We can only overcome the challenge of youth unemployment if we work together. Let us build better, stronger and safer rural communities. Let us leave no one behind,” he said. 

The President was speaking on Wednesday at the Duttonar Military Base in Nigel, where he officiated the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) Pass-out Parade. 

President Ramaphosa, along with the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, handed over awards to outstanding participants of the 2023 National Rural Youth Service Corps.

 
The young people graduating have completed training in critical skills development programmes such as Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Construction and Engineering, Energy and Water, Education and Training, Health, Safety and Security, Information Technology and Media, Mining and Quarrying and Transport, Storage and Communication.

They were recruited from various districts and municipalities across the nine provinces through an open and transparent process. 

President Ramaphosa said that through NARYSEC, government has been working to change the high rate of unemployment amongst rural youth and lack of developmental opportunities in their areas.

 
Through this initiative, he said, government is affirming that rural youth have the same potential and energy as young people who live in cities and metros.

“There are less factories, industries and businesses in rural areas. As a result, there is less economic activity than in metros and urban areas. Access to tertiary education in rural areas, though it is improving, is still limited. 

“As a result, young people in search of opportunity are migrating away from rural areas to the cities. This affects development in rural areas. Through NARYSEC, we have been working to change this,” the President said. 

He said government aims to continue to scale up the NARYSEC programme, which has existed since 2010, so it reaches more unemployed rural youth.

By feeding into the District Development Model DDM), the President said NARYSEC graduates can contribute to making rural areas centres of economic activity. 

He said they can contribute to making rural areas sources of job creation, self-employment and entrepreneurship, and models of excellence when it comes to the delivery of services.

“There is a reason you are called the National Rural Youth Service Corps. We see you as a division, much like in an army, that is acting and working together towards achieving a common objective -- national reconstruction,” he said. 

The young people received practical skills in various economic sectors in which President Ramaphosa wants to see more youth participation.

Importantly, the President said, the training has included community and leadership development and civic education.

“Youth must be at the forefront of bringing development to rural communities. It is our responsibility to provide them with the knowledge, skills and experience that will enable them to play their part in bettering their communities.

“You have been given the tools. Now it is up to you to use them to better your own lives and to bring about change in your communities. Use what you have learned to work with government and other social partners to alleviate poverty, unemployment, inequality and underdevelopment,” the President said.

 
The President told the graduates that they are the main players in building the nation. 

“It is you, the young people, who are the builders of our nation. It is you who possess the talents, the energies and the enthusiasm that will take us forward.

“Throughout our journey to democracy, it was young people at the forefront of progress and change. That is why our focus as government is on empowering young people,” he said. 

He reiterated that government’s focus is on providing young people with the skills they need to look for and get work, or to start their own businesses.

“Our vision is for this to be aligned with the District Development Model and the One Plan for each of the country’s districts.

"When we say we must leave no-one behind, we mean that every young person in this country must be given a fair opportunity, regardless of where they live, where they went to school or how little they have,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

The KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Department has deployed ministerial representatives to intervene in municipalities that are consistently receiving poor audit outcomes from the Auditor-General (AG).

According to KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, eight municipalities, including Msunduzi, Mpofana, Inkosi Langalibalele, Mtubatuba, Abaqulusi Local Municipality, uThukela, uMzinyathi and uMkhanyakude District Municipality are currently under intervention.

Dube-Ncube said challenges include consistently poor audit outcomes, as identified by the AG, the inadequate utilisation of the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG) and other grants from provincial and national Treasury, financial difficulties, maladministration, approval of unfunded budgets and political instability.

“Each time the province intervenes, it has carefully considered the state of the municipality and underperformance that justifies placement of these municipalities under Section 139(1),” Dube-Ncube said on Wednesday.

The provincial government will continue, through COGTA, provincial Treasury and all provincial departments, to provide the necessary support to the municipalities and ensure improvement in accordance with the provincial government's aspirations. 

While these interventions follow a standardised approach, the Premier acknowledged that each municipality faces unique challenges, which must be addressed accordingly.

“We will not be intimidated, and we expect the ministerial representatives to implement consequence management resulting from Section 106 investigations within three months of completion of the reports. 

“In turn, the performance of ministerial representatives will be assessed by the MEC of COGTA within two months, and appointments will be terminated in case of underperformance,” the Premier said. 

She said the provincial government remains fully committed to ensuring the proper functioning of local government, stating that “when local government fails, all of government fails, because local government is the touchstone of service delivery". 

“We cannot allow illegal and unconstitutional decisions to bar interventions in municipalities by the province on grounds that have little to do with service delivery to the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” Dube-Ncube said.

Proper oversight for affected municipalities 

The Premier has also called on the affected municipalities, led by the mayors, to provide proper leadership and oversight to ensure that corrective measures are implemented to resolve audit issues and prevent recurrence.

Dube-Ncube, together with the COGTA MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, held a meeting with the top leadership of local and district municipalities that have been identified by the AG as underperforming and received negative reports. 

The municipalities, including uThukela, Ulundi, Emadlangeni, Mtubatuba, Msunduzi, Endumeni, Harry Gwala, Umkhanyakude, Mpofana, Nquthu, Umzinyathi, Inkosi Langalibalele, and Amajuba District Municipalities received negative reports during the 2021/2022 financial year.

Dube-Ncube said some of these municipalities are already subject to interventions under Section 139(1) of the Constitution.

“Some of them, according to the latest report of the AG, presented on 31 May 2023, not only received negative reports but may have undergone regression in critical areas. We cannot allow this situation to deteriorate any further than what it is already,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said at the meeting, the mayors provided turnaround plans to address the negative audit outcomes, and their responses to the Audit Action Plan, material irregularities, addressing unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

The mayors also presented their preparedness for the 2023 audit and provided the latest financial position of the municipalities. 

This included the June 2023 expenditure position on the infrastructure and disaster relief conditional grants, and the 2023/24 budget funding status.

While acknowledging signs of recovery, Dube-Ncube said the provincial government is extremely worried that the general picture that is emerging is one of “generalised weakness in the administration of some of these municipalities”.

She warned that the provincial government will not be barred from municipalities to conduct the work of government or to meet with communities. – SAnews.gov.za

Law enforcement is hot on the heels of 12 people possibly linked to the recent torching of trucks on national roads, says Police Minister Bheki Cele. 

“These are organised and sophisticated operations. They are organised in one centre in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal and dispersed in different groups to do these things,” the Minister announced on Wednesday, saying that the coordinator has also been identified. 

However, Cele could not divulge more information, as the investigations are still ongoing. 

The Minister and the South African Police Service (SAPS) senior management was briefing the nation on the police’s response to acts of violence targeting freight trucks. 

According to Cele, 21 trucks ferrying goods were burned down in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo since Sunday, 9 July 2023. 

He said in a televised briefing that nine trucks were burnt both in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal respectively, while three suffered the same fate in Limpopo.  

“We want to make it very clear that to date, there have been no targets on trucks in the Free State and Gauteng provinces.”

The Police Ministry, according to Cele, has recently concluded a high-level meeting with Provincial Commissioners of KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State, Gauteng and Mpumalanga, led by the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola.

“We have found it necessary to apprise the nation of these criminal operations and outline the response of law enforcement to the isolated and cowardice acts.

“Whether it is economic sabotage, labour or service delivery related disputes - police are closing in on those who choose to use violence and intimidation for whatever motive.”

Intelligence, Cele said, suggests that the attacks may be business-related and not random acts of criminality. 

He believes that the acts of violence seek to undermine and sabotage the State. 

He assured citizens that a plan of action from the police is already underway.

“No matter the motive, the country’s law enforcement remains on high alert and is hard at work at preventing more attacks but also finding these individuals or gangs of thugs who are hell-bent on causing havoc on our roads,” he stressed. 

Cele said the police have since heightened their visibility and are leaving nothing to chance in all provinces.

“All major routes have been secured and regular patrols are being conducted along identified high risk routes.”

July unrest 

Cele used the briefing to reflect on the July 2021 unrest, which marks two years since the mass looting, acts of arson and destruction of property in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, leading to 354 deaths. 

“As things stand, there is no evidence before us to suggest that the recent target on trucks is in any way related or linked to the July insurrection. 

“I wish to take this opportunity to allay any fears that what transpired in July 2021 will repeat itself.”

To date, Cele said 67 people have been arrested on 11 cases related to the insurrection and are before the courts, while investigations continue.

The Minister said the police are probing 107 cases in KwaZulu-Natal related to the torching of trucks since 2018.

“We have a capable State that has learnt from the past. The security apparatus is working in unison and the security cluster is in a better state to respond to any eventuality.”

Cele emphasised that the police are working with speed and closely together to bring a stop to these organised crimes and secure arrests. – SAnews.gov.za