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The New Technical Partner to Cricket South Africa
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‘We won’t backdown’ – Kubayi on war against corruption
'We won't backdown' - Kubayi on war against corruption
The South African government will continue to stand resolute, refusing to flinch or retreat in the war against corruption.
Addressing the debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) held in Parliament on Tuesday, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said left unattended, corruption deprives South Africans of resources which are meant for their development and well-being.
"It is therefore our patriotic duty to increase our efforts to rid ourselves of all corrupt practices so that we can create a truly ethical and capable developmental state.
“We shall not compromise or backdown in the fight against corruption at all levels,” Kubayi emphasised.
The Minister said effectively ridding the State of corruption requires strengthening “institutions which are tasked with fighting corruption”.
“The era of State capture starkly illustrated how institutions can be compromised, weakened, and rendered ineffective, ultimately transforming those meant to fight corruption into enablers of corruption.
“To strengthen these institutions and avoid the recurrence of state capture, the Department will lead efforts on the review of the anti-corruption architecture. This review is meant to eradicate duplication of mandates and enable resource allocation optimisation,” she revealed.
While that work is underway, a world-class digital forensics lab is being developed.
Additionally, resourcing and capacitation of the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption under the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is ongoing “so that State capture cases can be expedited amongst others”.
“To close the capacity gap within the NPA, in January this year, we developed and approved guidelines for section 38 appointments of prosecutors.
“Through these guidelines the appointments will be effective, efficient and more importantly, avoid subjectivity,” Kubayi said.
The Minister said lifestyle audits on departmental staff will be conducted as part of rebuilding law enforcement institutions.
“The first phase will include all those categorised as Senior Management Service in the department, State Attorneys offices, prosecutors, investigators in the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the officials in the sheriff offices and in the Masters office.
“We will then go further to subject all employees who deal with appointments of liquidators and admitted Guardian Fund to full vetting irrespective of their position, as well as those in supply chain management units.
“This is to ensure that those who lead the fight against corruption and other malfeasance in our society are not themselves implicated in wrongdoing that compromises and weakens institutions in which they discharge their responsibilities,” Kubayi said.
Progress and results
Kubayi informed Parliamentarians that the fight against corruption is “already yielding results”, with the SIU having saved some R8 billion in State coffers in the 2023/24 financial year.
“The amount includes a record recovery of funds in actual cash amounting to R2.28 billion, prevention of a further R2.32 billion in potential State losses and secured cash to be recovered from the acknowledgement of debt and admission of liability agreements to the value of R1.6 billion.
“In addition, the SIU successfully set aside contracts worth over R2.13 billion through the Special Tribunal and the High Court of South Africa, which bodes well for the effort to rectify irregular administrative decisions.
“This, honourable members, is demonstration of our commitment to safeguard public resources and ensure they benefit all South Africans,” she said.
Whistleblower Protection
On the issue of protecting whistle-blowers, the Minister said the department is finalising a framework to address existing weaknesses.
“A benchmarking exercise was conducted on best practice on whistle-blower protection systems in the world and it found that there are gaps in our framework we currently use to protect whistleblowers. In response, the department is finalising the whistle-blower protection framework that addresses the current weaknesses.
“This is in recognition of the key role whistleblowers have played and continue to play in the fight against corruption. We believe the framework will help guide the whistle-blower protection programme and ensure their safety.
“Furthermore, it will pave the way for the introduction of the Whistle-blower Protection Bill in Parliament within this financial year,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/12/2025 - 10:43
152 views
Members of the public urged to apply for internships using the right channels
Members of the public urged to apply for internships using the right channels
Employment and Labour Minister, Nomakhosazana Meth, has urged the public to refrain from sending their CVs directly to Ministry officials - but rather strictly comply with the directive of the internship advertisement and apply to the relevant provincial office.
This after the Minister announced the massive enforcement internship programme set to recruit a total of 20 000 Inspector and Enforcement Interns over the next two years.
The Minister said that it has since emerged that some applicants are emailing their CVs, applications and enquiries to the Ministry Spokesperson, on Thobeka.Magcai@labour.gov.za.
“The Ministry Spokesperson, Thobeka Magcai, is responsible for media enquiries and interview requests directed to the Ministry of Employment and Labour.
“Members of the public are hereby urged not to send their CV’s to officials in the Ministry and to rather strictly comply with the directive of the internship advertisement, obtainable from the Department of Public Services and Administration, DPSA Vacancy Circular 5 of 2025, and apply to the relevant provincial office.
Qualifying candidates can find the link to the internship programme advertisement here: https://www.dpsa.gov.za/dpsa2g/documents/vacancies/2025/PSV%20CIRCULAR%2005%20F%202025.pdf.
“The advert provides an email address and physical address, where applications can be either emailed or hand delivered in each Province. Failure to comply with the directive of the advert may result in your application being null and void, as it would not have reached the correct and relevant recipients for processing,” Minister Meth said.
All qualifying candidates who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date of 21 February 2025. The stipend on offer is R7450 per month.
During her first 100 days in office, Minister Meth committed to creating 20 000 job opportunities for young people, to strengthen the capacity of the Inspection an Enforcement Branch, as one of her key priorities.
The ground-breaking Internship Programme will bring onboard 10 000 interns annually, recruited across all nine provinces, thereby boosting the department’s capacity to promote fair labour practice nationwide. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/11/2025 - 14:26
142 views
This SASSA Office Opens Earlier to Deal with “High Influx” of Clients
A community worker says she sleeps outside the office to secure spaces for elderly or disabled people
1,500 Lesotho Health Workers Sent Home After US Aid Suspended
Trump blocking aid threatens vital health services
Tributes pour in for nuclear scientist Senamile Masango
Tributes pour in for nuclear scientist Senamile Masango
The Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, has described the late pioneering nuclear scientist, Senamile Masango, as someone who was a beacon of hope for many young people, especially women.
The Deputy President paid tribute to Masango, after receiving the sad news of the passing of South Africa’s first Black nuclear scientist, and a member of the HRDC, on Sunday, 9 February 2025.
Masango, who hailed from Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal, passed away in hospital following a short illness. She was 37 years old.
“Her passion for developing critical skills among the population and women in science, in particular, will be sorely missed,” the Deputy President said in a statement on Monday.
Masango, a PhD candidate, was a globally recognised nuclear scientist, esteemed energy leader and pioneering entrepreneur.
As a trailblazer in the field of nuclear science, she was widely respected for her groundbreaking research particularly at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN).
Her achievements were a source of pride, as she became the first African woman to conduct experiments at CERN.
Masango’s brilliance gained international recognition when she received the prestigious Women in Science Award in 2022.
The Deputy President’s Office noted that her influence extended beyond her scientific accomplishments, as she is also a visionary entrepreneur.
She served as the founder and Executive Chair of Mphathisithele Consulting, an energy consulting firm.
She also served on several public sector science bodies including the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) and recently became a member of the HRDC.
Due to her groundbreaking work in empowering women through science, she has received numerous local and international honours.
These include being recognised as one of the 50 Global Inspirational Women of 2020 and being named a finalist for the Women in Tech Global Awards in 2021.
Despite her youth, Masango made a significant contribution to the advancement of science and the development of essential skills for the country.
“On behalf of government and the HRDC, we wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Masango family, her immediate community, and the science fraternity at large. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” said the Deputy President.
Her establishment of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) and her advocacy for greater representation and opportunities for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields have made a significant impact.
The Office of His Majesty the King Misuzulu KaZwelithini of the Zulu nation, has also paid his tribute to the renowned nuclear scientist.
Masango came from rural Nongoma, which is the traditional seat of the Zulu monarchy in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
“On behalf of the Zulu nation, I offer my deepest sympathies to your family. May you find comfort in the knowledge that her impact will continue to inspire many. We stand with you in mourning, and we pray that her soul rests in eternal peace,” the King said on Monday.
Former Public Protector and the Law Faculty Trust Chair in Social Justice and Law Professor at Stellenbosch University, Professor Thuli Madonsela said she was “exceedingly” shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Masango.
Madonsela said Masango was a friend of the Centre for Social Justice at Stellenbosch University and a tireless supporter of the #Action4Inclusion initiative aimed at eradicating student debt as a barrier to higher education.
“Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues. May her kind soul rest in peace,” Madonsela said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/10/2025 - 12:55
297 views
Western Cape Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme Fund applications open
Western Cape Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme Fund applications open
Western Cape companies, as well as intermediaries or organisations that currently assist businesses with exports, are being called on to apply for financial assistance.
The provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) said the companies as well as potential companies can apply for financial assistance and support through the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (ECEP).
The ECEP Fund aims to develop and equip business enterprises facing technical challenges to diversify and access international markets.
The fund will provide comprehensive support to businesses and intermediaries or organisations dedicated to implementing programmes and projects fostering their export initiative.
The programme support will focus on the following services:
• Product reformulation and refinement.
• International packaging, labelling, and printing requirements.
• International product certification and standards for international market access.
• Product or service registration with relevant international bodies in export markets.
• International nutritional analysis.
• Special handling services and/or permits required to export products safely and efficiently.
• E-commerce platform listing.
The fund is geared toward businesses that are existing exporters or potential exporters in the following sub-sectors but not limited to:
• Food.
• Beverages.
• Cosmetics (make-up products).
• Personal care products (oral, skin, and body care).
• Jewellery.
• Transport equipment.
• Computer, electronics, and optical products.
• Rubber and plastic products.
• Machinery and equipment.
• Wearing apparel.
• Craft and furniture.
Exclusions
Meanwhile, according to the provincial department, several exclusions should be noted when applying for the fund.
These include operational and working capital, contributing to production costs or purchase of stock, the building of any sort of infrastructure, and enterprises not based in the Western Cape.
The department said priority will be given to companies operating in industries with high export potential identified in the Western Cape economy.
In addition, planned intervention intends to develop successful exporters meeting client needs professionally.
Qualifying criteria
Organisations, intermediaries, and businesses that qualify must meet the following minimum requirements:
• Be a registered legal entity.
• Must be tax-compliant at the time of application.
• Audited financial statements (AFS) independently reviewed or compiled financial statements for the two most recent financial years. AFS must be unqualified.
• Business must be based in the geographic boundary of the Western Cape, even if the main office is in another province.
• Intermediaries or organisations can be based in South Africa. However, the beneficiary businesses must be based in the Western Cape.
• Business or intermediary or organisation must demonstrate that it can provide its own or third-party funding.
“We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the online form and other relevant documentation so that you have the necessary information at hand when completing your application.”
According to the department, the fund is contingent upon budget availability, which will be made accessible through an open fund.
“The allocation of funds will be at the discretion of the department based on evaluation criteria and the availability of budgetary resources.”
The application forms for businesses and intermediaries can be accessed on these links:
• Application Form for Business
• Application Form for Organisations/Intermediaries
In addition, only online applications will be accepted, and no e-mail or hand-delivered applications will be considered. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/10/2025 - 08:19
271 views
Go-Slow at Hospital After CEO Suspended
Brief suspension came after a letter in the name of CEO Mziyanda Tshaka circulated about an acute shortage of doctors at Tambo Regional Hospital
GCIS reaches out to Hammanskraal residents ahead of SONA
GCIS reaches out to Hammanskraal residents ahead of SONA
By Sebjalo Rachuene and Boipelo Sefoka
Officials from the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) have undertaken an awareness campaign in Hammanskraal, Gauteng, aimed at raising awareness on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and services offered by the GCIS.
Held late last week at Kopanong Complex, the community outreach was supported by staff members from the GCIS Information Resource Centre (IRC), the Gauteng GCIS branch and those from the Office of the Public Protector.
The engagement was also an opportunity for the GCIS to spread the message of food safety, in light of recent incidents where young lives have been lost due to foodborne illnesses.
The GCIS plays a critical role in ensuring that South Africans have access to accurate and up-to-date government information. During the campaign, officials engaged with community members, highlighting the significance of the SONA, where the President will outline the government's priorities, policies, and plans for the year.
“By informing the public about the upcoming address, the initiative aimed to encourage greater civic participation and awareness of national developments that directly impact communities like Hammanskraal.
“The campaign placed a strong emphasis on food safety awareness. Given past concerns about foodborne illnesses and water safety in Hammanskraal, the initiative sought to educate residents on best practices for food handling, storage, and hygiene.
“Through informative discussions and distributed materials, the team provided valuable guidance on preventing food contamination, ensuring proper sanitation, and making healthier food choices to protect families from potential health risks.
“The campaign saw active participation from local residents, who welcomed the opportunity to engage with government representatives and community leaders. The presence of the Office of the Public Protector further reinforced government's commitment to transparency, accountability, and service delivery,” the GCIS said in a statement.
By bringing together the GCIS, local government representatives and public sector partners, the initiative successfully strengthened communication between government and the people, ensuring that essential information reaches those who need it most.
With the State of the Nation Address scheduled for 7pm tonight, such awareness initiatives remain vital in keeping citizens informed and engaged in the country's democratic processes.
The food safety awareness aspect of the campaign also plays a crucial role in improving public health and ensuring the well-being of communities.
The GCIS and its partners continue to work toward bridging the gap between government and the people, fostering transparency, and empowering citizens with knowledge that impacts their daily lives. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 10:20
48 views
All eyes on President Ramaphosa
All eyes on President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa will tonight outline the roadmap for the country for the year ahead, as he takes to the Parliamentary podium to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The President will deliver the first SONA of the seventh administration at 7pm tonight, under the theme: “A nation that works for all”.
SONA 2025 takes place as South Africa recently took up the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) – a historical moment, as the country became the first African State to do so.
In a media briefing on Wednesday, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the address is expected to touch on the past, the present and the future of South Africa.
“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy,” he said.
The address is also expected to touch on the Government of National Unity (GNU) and how it is setting about achieving its objectives.
In his Opening of Parliament Address last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa revealed that the GNU will dedicate the next five years to “actions that will advance” inclusive growth and job creation, reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living.
The seventh administration took office last year following the national General Elections in which the South African people did not give a single clear majority to any political party.
“In the address, the President will outline the task of the Government of National Unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” Magwenya said.
Parliamentary process
The SONA represents the official start of Parliament’s programme and is one of the rare occasions when the three arms of the state – the legislature, the judiciary and the executive – gather under one roof.
During a media briefing yesterday, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza described SONA as a “crucial event on our national calendar as this Parliament but also as a nation”.
“This occasion is the result of months of meticulous preparation and coordination, which underscores its significance in shaping the national discourse and setting the tone for the year ahead.
“SONA allows the President as the head of state to speak to the nation and reflect on a wide range of matters of national importance, as well as outline the progress on the commitments made by the state.
“As such, SONA signifies the highest level of the state’s accountability to the citizenry by providing updates on the government programmes, developments in legislation and policies, profiling targets and a programme of action for the new financial year,” she said.
As the moment draws closer, leaders of the three arms of the state will form a procession and will enter the Assembly Chamber through the main entrance of the Cape Town City Hall.
The Speaker explained that SONA 2025 will “retain a full ceremonial format” including that procession.
“[This includes] a 21-gun salute, an aircraft flypast, a ceremonial guard, the singing of the national anthem, a full military band and procession involving provincial speakers and premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President [Paul Mashatile] and the President,” Didiza said.
Youth involvement
Didiza told the media that although dignitaries from across the world will be in attendance, Parliament has also made special way for the youngest of South Africans to be involved in the day.
“As part of fostering civic awareness and public engagement, SONA… will feature the Junior Guard of Honour, comprising a hundred learners from four Western Cape schools selected in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Education.
“The involvement of these young learners is crucial in educating and exposing them to the workings, roles and functions of State institutions, helping to shape them as the leaders of tomorrow,” Didiza said.
During the media briefing, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, announced that this year’s praise singer, who will usher the President in – a staple of the SONA – will be 19-year-old Inako Mateza, who hails from the Eastern Cape.
“The proceedings of this SONA will once again include praise singing by Imbongi. This practice is managed through rotational language and provincial selection processes, which ensures inclusivity and the promotion of all our official languages.
“This custom not only adds cultural significance to the event but also provides a platform to showcase grassroots talent on the prominent national stage,” Mtsweni-Tsipane said.
Speaking to SAnews, the award winning Mateza described her selection as an honour.
“Being chosen as an Imbongi to welcome the President in Parliament tomorrow means a lot to me because firstly, I'm a young person who embraces culture and tradition at a time where young people are focused and celebrated for amapiano music. So, for me being the Imbongi that will be welcoming President Cyril Ramaphosa makes me feel ecstatic.
“This opportunity will encourage me to continue the work I am doing. I've noticed that even people on social media enjoy the imbongi part of SONA. I thought I was doing this for my own enjoyment, but I see now that I have inspired others to walk this path too,” Mateza said.
The SONA will be broadcast live on television, on radio and will also be streamed live on the Presidency and Parliament YouTube channels. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:18
58 views
President Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA
President Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA
President Cyril Ramaphosa is fully prepared and focused ahead of his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, says Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
Addressing a media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday, Magwenya emphasised that despite various pressing national matters, the President remains undistracted and committed to delivering his address.
“He's very ready for tomorrow. Typically, in our office, there's never a time when we are dealing with one issue. The sort of typical day, week or month in our office involves dealing with multiple issues at the same time.
“So, we are excited. We are not in any way distracted by all these other issues. We accept these issues to be par for the course, in the nature of the President's work, and like the issues that we have to deal with and resolve, we are not in crisis mode,” Magwenya said.
He said the President’s office was addressing issues as required and remained focused on preparations for tomorrow’s SONA.
He noted a great deal of excitement surrounding the event, as it will be the first SONA under the seventh administration and the Government of National Unity (GNU).
“Tomorrow's address will have received inputs from Ministers that come from other parties who are responsible for their respective portfolios, and so tomorrow's address will be very much reflective of the Government of National Unity, and we are finding a great deal of excitement,” he said.
President Ramaphosa will deliver the 2025 SONA on Thursday at 7 pm at Cape Town City Hall, before a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament.
The first SONA of the seventh administration will be held under the theme “A nation that works, for all” and holds added significance as it coincides with South Africa’s 30 years of freedom and democracy as well as its Presidency of the G20.
“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy.
“In the address, the President will outline the task of the government of national unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” he said.
Presidential Gold Challenge
Following the SONA, President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday tee off alongside a diverse stakeholder grouping to raise funds for charities during the annual Presidential Golf Challenge (PGC) which will be held at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand.
The PGC is held every year following the SONA and is hosted by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector as part of the activities around SONA.
Magwenya explained that the challenge raises funds for charities designated by the sitting President and provides an opportunity for networking between government and the private sector.
“The proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, which will in turn distribute funds to deserving charities to improve education and promote skills development in the communities across the country.
“The President is honoured to partner with an 11-year-old golfer Shalom Madlala from Malelane in the Mpumalanga province. Shalom is a provincial player in the South African Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) program,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 12:42
494 views
SIU welcomes disciplinary action against nine officials
SIU welcomes disciplinary action against nine officials
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed the outcomes of a disciplinary inquiry initiated against nine officials from the Gauteng Department of Health and the Department of Infrastructure Development.
The officials faced charges relating to alleged irregularities in awarding contracts for refurbishing the Anglo Ashanti Hospital in 2022.
Following the SIU's consequence management recommendations, the Office of the Premier took disciplinary action against the implicated officials employed by the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) and the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (GDID).
The SIU’s investigation uncovered evidence of financial misconduct involving several individuals from GDoH and GDID.
The Gauteng Government acted on the SIU's recommendations and charged the officials involved. The outcome is as follows:
- Head of Infrastructure Development: GDoH was dismissed.
- Acting Head of Department: GDID was dismissed.
- Acting Director, Health Infrastructure: GDID was dismissed.
- Acting Chief Financial Officer and Head of SCM: GDID was dismissed.
- Acting Deputy Director-General, Health Branch: GDID) was dismissed.
- Project Manager, Infrastructure Development: GDoH issued with a final written warning.
- Acting Chief Director, Health Infrastructure: GDID issued with a final written warning.
- Project Manager: GDID, their contract employment ended during the hearing.
- Acting Deputy Director-General, Hospital Services: GDoH was acquitted.
The evidence gathered by the SIU indicatds that around 19 March 2020, the AngloGold Ashanti Hospital (AGA Hospital) refurbishment project began under the GDID on behalf of the GDoH.
However, during this process, no supply chain management policies or procedures were followed when procuring service providers and contractors for the refurbishment.
Furthermore, the GDoH was misled into believing that only minor renovations were needed at the AGA Hospital.
This is a contravention of the Public Finance Management Act and National Treasury’s regulations, causing the GDoH to incur fruitless and wasteful for goods and services supplied.
The SIU was mandated through Proclamation No. R. 23 of 2020 to investigate the affairs of all State institutions regarding procurement or contracting for goods, works, and services during or in respect of the National State of Disaster by or on behalf of State institutions.
“The disciplinary actions show that state institutions are acting on the results of the SIU investigation and implementing the consequences to hold officials implicated to account, recover assets and financial losses incurred by these institutions, and prevent further losses,” said Special Investigating Unit Kaizer Kganyago.
“We urge all state institutions to take decisive action to clean up our government and state entities from the corruption that has plagued them,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 15:09
149 views
Youth called to seize job opportunities through Presidential initiatives
Youth called to seize job opportunities through Presidential initiatives
The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, has urged young people to take advantage of job opportunities available through government initiatives aimed at tackling youth unemployment.
Mhlauli made this call during a site visit to Afrika Tikkun Services in Salt River, Cape Town, on Tuesday.
Afrika Tikkun Services is an organisation that is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI), through the Jobs Boost Programme.
Jobs Boost is a R300 million pay-for-performance model being piloted in South Africa. It is an outcomes fund that works with implementing partners to secure sustainable, quality jobs for unemployed, excluded youth.
The programme is the largest youth employment outcomes fund in the world, and a major innovation in the South African government’s effort to confront the chronic youth unemployment problem. Jobs Boost was initiated by the Presidency, as part of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention.
Mhlauli’s visit at Afrika Tikkun Service, aimed to assess the progress and impact of the initiative on young participants. She expressed satisfaction with the program’s implementation, particularly its focus on ensuring young people's transition into sustainable employment.
“This morning, we are at Afrika Tikkun, which is one of the partners through the Jobs Boost Program, which is part of the Presidential Employment Youth Intervention. We came to assess the progress of this particular program, as well as the impact on young people,” she said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the facility offers a structured approach to preparing young people for the job market, including a recruitment phase, job readiness training, and eventual job placement.
The Deputy Minister was particularly pleased to learn that the first cohort of participants has already been successfully placed in jobs.
“The facility is really, quite inspiring. We interacted with young people who are part of various phases of the program, including from recruitment phase, where they are taken into the program and the various levels, including job readiness programs as well, where you get them ready for job placement. And one of the reports we also received is that the first cohort has already been placed,” Mhlauli said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the young people are not just being trained, they are being placed in sustainable jobs for a period of at least six months.
“When we speak as government about addressing youth unemployment, we are speaking not just about training young people, but also speaking about how we get those young people into sustainable jobs for a period of a minimum of six months.
“So far, we are quite happy with this cohort, and one of the things that we have discussed with the team is that they will come back and discuss with the management of the facility on areas that they believe can be improved, as we go forward and upscale into the next cohort, going forward into 2026,” the Deputy Minister said.
Mhlauli also commended the enthusiasm of the participants and noted the high number of young women benefiting from the program. She added that this is encouraging as it addresses the gender disparities in youth unemployment.
“There's much excitement, much enthusiasm from the young people, and we are very happy to see that most of them actually are young women. In particular, most of the classes are filled with young women, which shows that we are also not just looking at youth unemployment, but particularly the unemployment rate of young women, which are obviously most adversely affected by the crises of unemployment.
“All in all, we are quite happy about the progress we have seen, and obviously the impact that is quite visible in the lives of young people,” she said.
Encouraging broader participation, she urged young people to explore opportunities on the SAYouth.mobi platform, a zero-rated government website that provides information on employment, training, CV writing, and business planning.
“We call on young people to make use of these opportunities, and the quickest way to do that is to go onto the SAYouth.mobi website. It is a zero-rated website where you'll find all of the information about the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, as well as other initiatives such as the YES Program.
“It is one of the platforms that government has created for young people to be able to access these opportunities. So, we really do encourage young people to go onto that website its zero-rated meaning that you don't need any data to get onto the website,” the Deputy Minister said.
The Chief Operating Officer at Afrika Tikkun, Marian Claite, also reflected on the significance of the visit, emphasising the collaborative efforts between Afrika Tikkun and the Presidency.
“Today we met with the Deputy Minister Mhlauli from the President's office, and it was to discuss one of our projects that we are working on called Job Boost. And it was a very constructive conversation that we had. We discussed from the enrolment of our candidates to the training of our candidates, and where we are because we are now at the placement phase.
“We discussed our challenges and the collaboration of the relationship, how it would look as this was a pilot, how it would look next year, and what complexion we would like it to take,” she said.
Claite added that they have given some suggestions on their side on what they would like to see included in the program, as well as what is working well for them.
“At the end of the day, I think it is our mandate, and it's all of our wish that all 1,375 candidates that Afrika Tikkun Services has been tasked with training will be placed in meaningful employment opportunities,” Claite said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 22:11
236 views
No End to Long Queues at SASSA Khayelitsha
Grant recipients and applicants must sleep over or arrive in the early hours if they hope to get served
SASSA warns of scam
SASSA warns of scam
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has warned senior citizens who are 75 years and above, including people living with disabilities, to be aware of a scam circulating on social media claiming that they will get an additional R500 allocated payment to them.
SASSA Mpumalanga spokesperson, Senzeni Ngubeni, said that access to social grant-in-aid is not a stand-alone social grant. If an individual is living on a social grant but can’t look after themselves, they can get an additional grant to pay the person who takes full-time care of them.
Ngubeni said the agency in Mpumalanga is currently educating the public and clientele at large about the benefits of the grant-in-aid.
“The applicant must be in receipt of an Older Persons Grant, Disability Grant or a War Veteran’s Grant, and require regular attendance by another person owing to his/her physical or mental disabilities; must not be cared for in an institution that receives subsidy from the State.
“[The applicant] must undergo a medical or functional assessment confirming disability; provide clinical information or a referral form confirming disability; must provide a referral form duly completed by a treatment facility or practitioner if previously rejected on medical grounds,” Ngubeni explained in a statement on Tuesday.
Ngubeni urged all SASSA beneficiaries to use the official platforms to access accurate information.
“If the beneficiary is not sure about the correct information, contact SASSA on various platforms provided to enquire. Beneficiaries are also warned not to share their personal details and always be vigilant of those posing as SASSA officials and call the police.
“SASSA has provided the clientele and beneficiaries with info on how to contact SASSA and on how to apply online, or visit SASSA's nearest offices,” Ngubeni said.
Beneficiaries can contact the toll free number 0800 60 10 11during working days/hours and email GrantsEnquiriesMP@sassa.gov.za .
• How do you know if you qualify?
Those who qualify for the aid must already be getting a disability grant, war veteran’s grant or grant for older people and not be able to look after themselves owing to physical or mental disability. These individuals must therefore need full-time care from someone else an not be cared for in an institution that receives a subsidy from government for care or housing.
• How much will you get?
You will get R530 per month.
• How will you be paid?
The SASSA will pay the grant to you through cash at a specific pay point on a particular day, electronic deposit into your bank or Postbank account (the bank may charge you for the service) or an institution acting as administrator of the grant (e.g. welfare organisation).
The grant will be paid together with your social grant.
If individuals are unable to collect the money themselves, they can appoint a procurator at the SASSA office or give someone power of attorney to collect the grant on their behalf. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 12:06
250 views
Municipalities face challenges but they ‘can be fixed’ – Deputy President Mashatile
Municipalities face challenges but they 'can be fixed' - Deputy President Mashatile
South African municipalities may be grappling with challenges, but they are "fixable", according to Deputy President, Paul Mashatile
Mashatile made the remarks when he was delivering the keynote address at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) National Executive Committee Lekgotla, in Cape Town, on Tuesday afternoon.
South African municipalities are grappling with several challenges, including the inability to pay for bulk water and electricity supply, deteriorating infrastructure, service delivery issues, and poor governance.
However, Mashatile insists that, despite these challenges, coordinated efforts from all sectors can revive local government.
“I believe that our municipalities can be fixed. We just need more concerted efforts in the implementation of the Professionalisation Framework, which applies to the National, Provincial, Local Government, and SOEs (State Owned Entities). The Framework focus on accelerating service delivery, addressing poor performance and the skills gap in the public service.
“Professionalisation is critical to ensuring that government is capable of delivering essential services to its citizens,” Mashatile told the lekgotla.
The Deputy President emphasized that intergovernmental integration is crucial for local government to turn the corner and achieve progress.
“Intergovernmental integration is critical for promoting collaboration, coordination, and communication across different levels of government. Through coordinating our efforts and resources, we can solve the complex difficulties that our communities face and, ultimately, provide better services to our residents.
“Together, we can streamline processes and leverage each other’s strengths to achieve greater impact. It is through this collaborative approach that we can unlock innovative solutions and drive sustainable development across our nation,” he said.
Mashatile highlighted government interventions aimed at “fixing” local government, including:
- Harmonising planning and budgeting as part of adopting the District Development Model.
- Implementing a Public-Private Partnership model in water supply with the National Treasury and the Department of Water and Sanitation to ensure that the current water crisis facing several communities is resolved
- The Minister of COGTA has proposed a one-stop solution to resolve the interlinked financial challenges between municipalities, water boards, and other stakeholders.
Coalition councils
Following the 2021 Local Government Elections, about 70 municipalities required coalitions to form governments as no single political party gained a majority.
The Deputy President acknowledged that although this is necessary, some of these municipalities have been plagued by instability and dysfunction.
“[In] practice, coalition governments have been unstable and are often terminated before the end of their term of office. Instability in local government coalitions has contributed to severe inefficiencies and service delivery challenges.
“Coalition arrangements have compromised the ability of municipalities to adopt policies, pass budgets, adopt by-laws, and make senior management appointments,” he said.
However, growing instability in ‘hung’ municipalities, led to a government-convened National Dialogue on Coalition Governments.
The results of the dialogue was the development of a Framework for Coalitions in Local Government by SALGA.
“We have since used this framework as part of our source documents, amongst others, to develop a discussion document during the National Dialogue on Coalition governments, I convened in August 2023 at the University of the Western Cape.
“To this end, with the assistance of the Dullah Omar Institute and MISTRA (Mapungubwe Institute For Strategic Reflection), we have been able to develop a Coalitions Framework for South Africa.
“This framework has been handed over to Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), as a basis for the development of the Municipal Structures Amendment Bill 2024 [Coalitions Bill] by CoGTA, which will be submitted for Cabinet approval and introduction to Parliament this year,” he revealed.
Working together
The Deputy President also implored the lekgotla to work with government to ensure that local government improves its responsiveness to communities.
“[It] is important that SALGA and all three spheres of government collaborate in order to find solutions to service delivery challenges.
“Let us harness the power of intergovernmental integration to build a more responsive, effective, and inclusive system of governance that truly serves the needs of our people,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 15:35
70 views
No Money to Fix Broken Colchester Clinic, Says Health Department
Patients say no maintenance has been done on Colchester’s health facility since 2020
Have your say on permanent desalination plant
Have your say on permanent desalination plant
The City of Cape Town is calling on the public to comment on the proposal to implement and operate the city’s first permanent desalination plant in Paarden Eiland.
Desalination is a scientific process of removing salts from sea water, then processing it further to make it suitable and safe for human consumption.
“In the face of climate change, unpredictable rainfall and a growing population, this proposed plant forms part of the city’s various water augmentation projects in the city's New Water Programme (NWP) and Water Strategy, which aims to diversify drinking water supply resources and build a resilient future supply.
“The planned permanent desalination plant is expected to produce between 50 and 70 million litres of water per day. Overall, the Water Strategy aims to increase the city’s water supply by an additional 300 million litres from diversified sources,” city’s Member of Mayoral Committee, Zahid Badroodien, said in a statement on Monday.
Badroodien emphasised the importance of providing the public with a fair opportunity to share their thoughtful and informed input on these issues.
“We encourage residents and stakeholders to submit their comments by 3 March 2025. All feedback will be incorporated in the final, completed feasibility study report, which will be made available to the community for comments before it is submitted to council for their consideration,” Badroodien said.
Residents and interested parties are encouraged to attend information sessions on Wednesday, 12 February 2025 at 6pm – 8pm at the Council Chambers, 6th Floor, Civic Centre, 12 Hertzog Boulevard, Cape Town, or virtually via Microsoft Teams: https://bit.ly/4ghqlDY.
The information session will also be held on Wednesday, 19 February 2025 at 6pm – 8pm at the Auditorium, Milnerton Library, Pienaar Road, Milnerton, Cape Town, or via Microsoft Teams: https://bit.ly/40OcMXV.
Information desalination plant can also be obtained from the council resolution and report, desalination booklet, and the water Outlook Report
For more information and general enquires, email: public.participation@capetown.gov.za or call 0800 212 176
Comments can be submitted by 3 March 2025 on Email: public.participation@capetown.gov.za, or www.capetown.gov.za/collaborate.
Written comments can also be delivered to your sub-council office: https://bit.ly/3CUlnKW - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 09:46
79 views
Langa township residents receive government services ahead of SONA in Cape Town
Langa township residents receive government services ahead of SONA in Cape Town
Washington Street in Langa, Cape Town, bustled with activity as the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) hosted pre-State of the Nation Address (SONA) outreach activities on Monday.
Gazebos, banners, buses and cars lined the streets, as various government departments provided services to the community.
The Guga S’Thebe Cultural Centre and the Langa Civic Hall were filled with hundreds of community members.
Some walked, while others took taxis, all eager for essential services, such as applying for identity documents (IDs).
Young people lined up at the Employment and Labour Department’s mobile bus to register on the job seekers' database.
The outreach activities aim to involve all South Africans in the SONA, which will be delivered by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday, 6 February, at 7 pm.
This will be the President’s first SONA as the Head of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in the seventh administration.
Some of the participants were the City of Cape Town officials, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Western Cape Department of Social Development, the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), the Human Rights Commission, Postbank, the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC), and the Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA).
Acting Director of Public Employment Services, Nokulunga Zazaza, expressed satisfaction in connecting with the community, especially in registering unemployed youth on their database.
The team also offered career counselling to help equip the youth with job hunting and interview skills.
“We also have a programme where we go around to engage with employers and opportunity providers to check if there are opportunities available in their organisation. If they do, they give us the requirements and registration credentials, and we’ll use those to match it with the unemployed who meet the criteria,” she explained.
Although there are Labour Centres located throughout the province, Zazaza stressed that her department aims to connect more closely with local communities.
She expressed a desire for people to secure permanent employment, as most of the companies that reach out to them mostly offer temporary contracts and training services.
“We always want as many people as possible to find employment because our target is unemployed persons, as our department’s focus is employment and labour. We want to do anything that will assist with unemployment.”
Research Officer for the Human Rights Commission, Advocate Tammy Carter, told SAnews that many individuals she encountered in communities were unaware of their rights, even though the country boasts one of the best constitutions in the world.
“One of the primary functions, in terms of the Constitution for the Human Rights Commission, is to promote human rights and human rights culture.
“If people don’t even know their rights, how are they going to even assert those rights?
“For us, it’s important to be invited to events like this, so that we can educate people about their rights.”
She said Chapter 9 bodies had been created to support democracy by being enforcers of human rights.
Most of the people she has been attending to have been raising issues about education, access to water and sanitation, environmental concerns such as littering, which seems to be a big deal in Langa, and access to services such as SASSA and Home Affairs.
“People in Langa have to travel to Athlone to access these services and it costs them a lot of money,” Carter said, adding that was important for the Chapter 9 institutions to come together to help these communities.
Customer Care Assistant from the Western Social Development Department, Siphosihle Qingana, said together with his colleague, he has been providing information about their services since this morning.
These include childcare protection programmes, support for the elderly, substance abuse assistance, and registration of non-profit organisations (NPOs).
“People need help or advice about child protection. Some children don’t have birth certificates. Other people were seeking funding for their NPOs and asking about registering NPOs,” Qingana told SAnews.
Ministries and departments will continue to hold various public engagement activities for the remainder of the week.
According to the GCIS, these events aim to encourage South Africans to familiarise themselves with the content of SONA, enabling them to contribute to discussions and proposals for economic growth and development.
South Africans are encouraged to tune it and participate in this important national milestone. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/03/2025 - 15:16
119 views
Afriforum Lobbied Trump About Land Expropriation. Now He Wants to Cut South Africa’s Health Funding
The Ivan Toms Centre for Health has been providing health services in Cape Town, mostly to vulnerable men, since 2009. Its services were stopped last week after the US government, which funds the centre, halted aid to South Africa. While a subsequent directive has been issued allowing aid to resume for some HIV and TB …
Public urged to participate in SARS e-filing survey
Public urged to participate in SARS e-filing survey
The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) has called on taxpayers to participate in a survey about their experience using the South African Revenue Service (SARS) e-filing system.
“The OTO is appealing to taxpayers and taxpayer representatives to participate in the survey on their experiences and challenges regarding e-filing profile hijacking,” the Ombud said on Monday.
Last August, the OTO announced that it sought and obtained approval from the Minister of Finance to conduct a review of possible systemic and emerging issues related to alleged SARS service failures in assisting taxpayers with e-filling profile hijacking timeously, in terms of section 16(1)(b) of the Tax Administration Act, 28 of 2011.
This followed complaints and queries received by the OTO from taxpayers and industry bodies, as well as the public workshop with SARS, taxpayers and industry bodies on 13 June 2024.
The objective of the survey is to collect information that will assist the OTO in its investigation and compilation of the report thereon.
To access the survey, click on this link: https://forms.office.com/r/8bA3VDixPZ.
The survey is also accessible on the OTO website at: www.taxombud.gov.za.
It can also be completed manually by downloading the form and emailing it to: communications@taxombud.gov.za. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 02/03/2025 - 13:50
67 views
Communities urged to help keep public assets safe
Communities urged to help keep public assets safe
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality is on a drive to curb the ongoing vandalism crisis that is crippling the metro's electricity infrastructure, which has cost millions of rands in repairs.
The municipality has now launched an education and awareness campaign aimed at addressing vandalism. The metro’s Electricity and Energy Portfolio Head, Ziyanda Mnqokoyi, said after three major incidents of vandalism in January alone, it is evident that the vandalism of the metro’s electricity infrastructure has reached crisis levels, leaving communities severely impacted by the criminal activities.
Mnqokoyi said the most recent incident took place last Tuesday at the Mabandla substation in KwaNobuhle, Kariega, leading to major power outages in the area.
"Such incidents not only disrupt essential services but also pose significant safety hazards for the perpetrators, community members and response teams. The seriousness of these attacks on our infrastructure cannot be ignored, and we cannot fight the scourge alone. We need the residents to work with us.
“Through the enhanced educational programme, we will highlight the dangers of unsafe electricity use and educate our people about the impact of electricity theft. We cannot continue as if it is business as usual.”
Mnqokoyi urged communities to work with law enforcement agencies and municipal authorities to prevent further vandalism.
She said the investigation and assessment at Mabandla showed that the 66 kilovolts (kV) power cables supplying the substation were damaged due to vandalism, and cutting tools were found at the site. Cables were found burnt and severely damaged, leaving KwaNobuhle without power.
"It was also reported by the community that suspects were seen walking away from the site. Cables were burnt and left on site, which badly damaged two of these 66kV power cables without any possible way of supplying electricity to the residents of KwaNobuhle.
Mnqokoyi said excavation work to expose the damaged cables is underway and material orders have been placed.
Appointment of CFO
Meanwhile, the municipality has appointed Jackson Ngcelwane as the permanent Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
The appointment is aimed at improving the financial administration, revenue collection and the audit outcomes of Nelson Mandela Bay.
Ngcelwane has served the municipality for 35 years, with nine of these years as a Senior Director for Budget and Financial Accounting.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has expressed optimism that the appointment will help to address the challenges in administration and finance management, a situation that is "reflected by the latest Auditor-General’s report".
"The immediate assignments are to improve compliance to the MFMA [Municipal Finance Management Act], MSCOA [Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts], our audit outcomes, supply chain management and put systems in place for better financial planning, management and accountability, while improving the revenue of the municipality.
“I am pleased that council has approved the appointment of the disciplinary board that will take those who are found guilty of financial misconduct through a consequence management process. This will also assist the city manager and the new CFO’s office, as they execute their duties of steering the metro’s finances towards the right direction,” Lobishe said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/03/2025 - 09:58
31 views
Missing Pumps, Broken Pipes: Limpopo Villagers’ Constant Fight for Water
Tshakhuma families used their own money to connect to the water supply, but it’s still not working