MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The role of air conditioning in hospital settings extends far beyond simply regulating temperatures. In healthcare facilities, ensuring patient well-being extends far beyond medical treatments alone. The environment itself plays a crucial role in facilitating healing and recovery. Among the essential elements contributing to a conducive hospital atmosphere is the ability to maintain optimal air …
Govt pulling resources together to curb extortion crimes, says Mashatile
Through the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, government is consolidating resources to end extortion and ensure that communities conduct business without fear or intimidation.
“We are also aware of the persistent issues of high levels of extortion crimes, particularly in Mthatha, Eastern Cape,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The Eastern Cape town of Mthatha is battling extortion crime by syndicates, which have led to at least one school and several businesses shutting down, according to reports.
Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He told the Members of the NCOP that the Government of National Unity (GNU), has adopted three priorities, including inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.
“We have adopted the above three priorities because whilst we have made significant progress over the 30 years in reducing poverty and inequality, we remain faced with the challenges of a slow-growing economy, high unemployment and poverty rate, high incidence of crime, corruption and lawlessness, and a highly fractured society.”
Mashatile said the seventh administration has decided to invest in the building of a capable, developmental State.
“A developmental State, in our context, is a State that will redirect resources towards job creation and ensure that people have access to asset ownership, economic opportunity, education, healthcare, and other basic services.”
More importantly, in a quest for a developmental State, the Deputy President mentioned that government will continue to invest in building safer communities.
“Building safer communities is not only a police responsibility, but it is a shared responsibility between the police, communities and all sectors of our society.”
He has since urged citizens to hold hands with law enforcement agencies to combat crime in communities.
The planning session is being held under the theme: ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in programme planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:53
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will soon initiate a programme to clean cities and recognise those that exceed expectations in making their towns sustainable and safe.
The country’s second-in-command said that cleaner cities contribute towards attracting investors.
“In this regard, as leaders in our respective towns, we must launch a competition of the cleanest towns,” he said on Tuesday.
Deputy President Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He said his Office will collaborate with the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister and South African Local Government Association (Salga) to form a committee that will conduct an annual assessment of the cleanliness of cities and present awards.
“This campaign has the potential of ensuring that the private sector and communities in partnership with the government ensure that our cities are clean and safe.
“Honourable Members, in realising the vision of building a developmental, capable, and ethical State, we will vigorously implement the plan to professionalise the public service, and we will do so by investing in the capacity of the National School of Government.”
Modernising the State
Equally, he said, government must continue to invest in the modernisation of the State and government by introducing innovative solutions across government particularly.
“The whole world is going digital in many respects and as South Africa, we must not be left behind.”
Over the last 30 years, government has adopted progressive policies that the seventh administration is going to pay special attention to the speed of execution.
The Deputy President announced plans to strengthen coordination by refocusing the Presidency as the centre of government, bringing together critical government departments such as CoGTA and the National Treasury.
“We intend to align planning and budgeting as part of implementing the District Development Model (DDM) premised on One Plan-One Vision and this we will do to achieve maximum results in building a better life for all.”
The planning session is being held under the theme ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in program planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:04
Today, there are many more remote and hybrid collaboration options for teams than at the beginning of the decade. That means it’s no longer standard to jump on a plane, train, or in a car to get to the next big meeting. According to research from Deloitte, seven in 10 companies now weigh the need …
Procuring for a better SA
The recently signed Public Procurement Act is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays and curb corruption while also ensuring that taxpayer money is used responsibly.
“It is a good move for many reasons,” says Kamogelo Mampane, the Executive Chairman of the Supply Chain Council (SCC).
President Cyril Ramaphosa assented the act that aims to create a single framework that regulates public procurement, in July.
“It is a consolidation of all guidelines, practice notes and procurement guidelines that were found in other regulations into one legislative framework. The Procurement Act introduces standardised procedures that streamline the procurement process, making it more efficient and transparent. This will significantly reduce bureaucratic delays and curb corruption, ensuring that taxpayer money is used responsibly and effectively,” Mampane told SAnews.
The SCC is a non-profit association that was set-up in 2010 to provide quality and professional supply chain services to organisations across the globe. The association helps organisations to make improvements in supply chain processes.
The act also complies with the Constitution’s Section 217 that states that the contracting of goods and services by organs of state in all spheres of government must occur in accordance with a system which is fair, equitable, transparent, competitive and cost-effective, among others.
According to the Presidency, the act also responds to the acknowledgement that legislation regulating procurement by organs of state is fragmented and constrains the justified advancement of persons or categories of persons who could provide goods or services.
Mampane said the act also creates clarity on what is legal, possible and creates many possible options for state organs to drive economic transformation while also forming a basis for investments in technology and best sourcing practices.
Recently, National Treasury indicated that the provisions of the act are not in force yet and that the President will bring the provisions of the Act into operation through a new proclamation in the government gazette.
The Public Procurement Act, 2024 (Act No. 28 of 2024) was approved by the President and published as an Act in the Government Gazette on 23 July 2024.
According to Treasury, Section 69 of the Act enables the President to bring the provisions into operation on different dates (phased approach) and to determine different dates for different categories of procuring institutions such as national and provincial departments, national and provincial public entities and municipalities and municipal entities.
Public Procurement Tribunal
Chapter 6 of the Act makes provision for a dispute resolution mechanism and a Public Procurement Tribunal to review decisions taken by procurement institutions.
Asked about his thoughts on the tribunal, Mampane said that small businesses often lack the resources to engage in prolonged legal battles.
“The tribunal offers a more accessible and cost-effective platform for resolving disputes, ensuring that their grievances are heard and addressed promptly. By upholding transparent procurement practices, the tribunal also assists small businesses to understand the criteria and processes used in awarding contracts.”
He added that this clarity can help small business to better prepare and compete for future opportunities.
“We foresee a tribunal receiving a huge number of applications in the beginning as small businesses seek a hearing.”
“The tribunal will also hold procurement officials accountable for their actions, encouraging them to adhere to the Act and code of conduct. This can lead to more diligent and conscientious behaviour in the execution of their duties.
“It is our view public procurement officials did not have a place to go if they felt threatened by people in authority, politicians, or suppliers. The tribunal will be a place to go as an independent body that can listen to their challenges,” he explained.
Asked about what type of individuals must sit on the tribunal, Mampane said this institution must be chaired by a retired judge supported by individuals with many years of experience in public procurement. This also includes someone who has experience in contract management and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) to ensure the consistency of the application of the rules.
According to the Act, a member of the Tribunal holds office for a period of five years, or the shorter period that the Minister of finance determines.
Additionally, a member of the Tribunal may be re-appointed at the expiry of a term for a further term not exceeding three years.
Transformation
In the year that marks 30 years of freedom and democracy in South Africa, the act is cognisant of the need to continue to foster economic transformation.
The act contains set asides for designated groups like women and persons living with disabilities who have historically been disadvantaged.
According to the chairman, this inclusive approach is expected to level the playing field and provide equal opportunities for all businesses to compete and thrive.
“Our economy is not growing, unemployment remains a challenge, youth unemployment is an indication of a non-productive economy. In any developing country like South Africa, SMMEs [small, medium, and micro-enterprises] play a crucial role in developing the economy, creating jobs and reindustrialisation. The protection and advancement of designated groups is crucial in creating sustainable projects in our communities.”
He added that the setting aside of opportunities for the productive sector of the economy will encourage innovation and investment by local and international organisations.
“A key aim of the bill is to drive economic transformation by mandating that a substantial portion of procurement contracts be awarded to historically disadvantaged individuals and SMMEs, the bill promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity. This is a major win for economic empowerment and growth.”
In an earlier media release, the SCC said a highlight of the act is its strong support for local production and manufacturing.
“The law stipulates that government entities prioritise locally produced goods and services in their procurement decisions. This provision aims to boost local industries, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth within the country.
“Supply chain professionals will need to cultivate robust relationships with local suppliers, ensuring that the procurement of locally manufactured products meets quality and cost-efficiency standards,” it said.
Reducing bureaucracy
Asked about whether the act will reduce government bureaucracy, Mampane said the Act provides a clear framework for efficient, fair and sustainable development for the more than 700 state organs, government departments and municipalities.
“The implementation of electronic procurement platforms to facilitate online submission and processing of bids, reducing paperwork and speeding up the procurement cycle will reduce bureaucracy of public procurement.
“Some processes were completely unnecessary e.g. having to go to National Treasury to ask for permission for minor deviations. The need to submit manual reports to National Treasury even though some were hardly ever used or perused by National Treasury, was also onerous.”
Concerns
Chapter 6 of the Act which speaks to dispute resolution, also refers to the Stand Still Process which speaks to the “prohibition on concluding contract during reconsideration or review proceedings”.
According to the process, if a procurement process is subject to a reconsideration in accordance with section 37, a procuring institution may not conclude a contract with the successful bidder within 10 days after completion of the reconsideration or review process.
Section 37 (Reconsideration by procuring institution) of the Act states that a bidder may submit an application for reconsideration to the procuring institution if that bidder is not satisfied with a decision to award a bid by that institution.
Mampane expressed concern over the process saying that in its current form, the clause creates “an automatic stand still, as it requires an organ of state not to conclude a contract with the successful bidder prior to completion of the review process by a Tribunal.”
“Projects will be stopped even if the request is frivolous and has no basis. The prima facie rule is ignored by this clause. We are extremely concerned that this will create inefficiencies in the process,” he said.
Taking supply chain forward
Asked about what the act means for the supply chain sector as a whole, Mampane is of the view that the act elevates the profession.
“This is a boost to the supply chain professionalising agenda as it elevates the profession to its right full place, i.e. a strategic function to assist government in achieving their social and economic objectives.
“Supply chain professionals must be at the forefront of driving this change, leveraging their expertise to assist their organisations in delivering their strategic objectives. Supply Chain professionals must build on this foundation that is created by this Act and build strong cases for SMME development, increase spend on locally produced products and deliver tangible value to their organisations and communities,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 14:58
Whether you’re looking for a substitute ingredient, or trying to make the grocery budget stretch a little further, these clever swaps will save you in a pinch Cooking isn’t just about following recipes, it’s also about being resourceful, especially when you find yourself missing a key ingredient. Fortunately, many kitchen staples have substitutes that can …
Jewelry is not only a symbol of elegance and style but also a valuable asset. Whether you’re looking to declutter, make a major purchase, or simply need extra cash, selling your jewelry can be a practical solution. Understanding the best practices for selling jewelry can help you maximize your return and ensure a smooth transaction. …
SevenC, a top managed service provider in South Africa, delves into the critical responsibilities and roles of MSPs in the region, highlighting their importance in optimising IT solutions for diverse businesses. Imagine a world where your business operations run smoothly, your IT systems are always up-to-date, and technical hiccups are a thing of the past. …
The sky's not the limit for SAPS pilot
Meet Lieutenant Colonel Kgothatso Khunou, the first African female chief helicopter pilot attached to the South African Police Service (SAPS) Airwing in the Free State, and one of 17 female pilots nationwide.
Khunou is certainly living up to her first name, Kgothatso, which means ‘courage,’ loosely translated from Setswana.
During the month of August, SAPS continues to celebrate its women in blue by celebrating those who are not only game changers in their respective fields, but who also break barriers in male dominated environments.
Khunou hails from Rustenburg and she fondly describes her humble upbringing as a "village girl". Her career in aviation found her and not the other way around, she insists. As a teenager, Khunou kindled a dream of following a career in science.
In 2010, the Royal Bafokeng Administration offered Khunou a scholarship to obtain a commercial pilot licence, just shortly after she obtained a National Diploma in Biotechnology. Having a fear of flying, Khunou courageously jumped at the opportunity to overcome this fear.
This ultimately led her to join the SAPS in 2014 as a junior pilot at the rank of warrant officer.
As a helicopter pilot, Khunou’s duties include operational flights by providing aerial support as requested from ground units, stock theft and stolen vehicle searches as well as assisting with search and rescue operations.
Khunou is currently deployed to Operation Vala Umgodi which continues to register commendable progress in dealing decisively with those involved in illicit mining activities across the country.
She played a pivotal role in a recent women-led Vala Umgodi operation in celebration of Women’s Month.
On 1 August 2024, the team arrested 178 illicit miners and recovered over 400 pendukas and various other illicit mining equipment during that particular operation in Benoni.
"When you set goals, always tell yourself that the sky is not even the limit. I was once afraid of flying, but now I serve my country fearlessly as an SAPS helicopter pilot," said Khunou.
With a bird’s eye view, Lieutenant Colonel Khunou continues to serve the people of South Africa with dignity, honour and pride. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:20
Tributes for former Vice-Chancellor of UWC Prof Brian O’Connell
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed great shock and sadness at the passing of the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Western Cape (UWC), Professor Brian O’Connell.
O’Connell passed away on Sunday at the age of 77.
The Minister has remembered O’Connell as an “illustrious” educationist and higher education leader who played a seminal role in basic and higher education following the advent of democracy in South Africa.
“The roots of his passion for social justice, equality and freedom must have been planted during his experiences as a student activist at UWC in the mid-1960s and resonated throughout his extraordinary life,” Nzimande said.
In higher education, the department said O’Connell led the university from 2001 until 2014, a period marked by difficult challenges of financial distress and the “merger” process.
However, under his leadership, the department believes UWC faced up to both challenges with great skill.
The late Professor has also been recognised for guiding UWC through difficult times, transforming it into one of the few historically Black universities in South Africa to successfully overcome its history of marginalisation and stagnation.
“At the core of his transformational leadership role was his stunning success in deliberately positioning UWC to become one of South Africa’s leading teaching and research universities.
“He worked tirelessly to mobilise resources from both South Africa and abroad to finance an ambitious Science Building project at a time of decline in fiscal support for infrastructure at universities.”
For his achievements in education, O’Connell was awarded the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Lifetime Achievement Award in September 2017.
Nzimande further noted that “Professor O’Connell was without doubt a visionary and charismatic figure in higher education with an unwavering commitment to an agenda promoting progressive education as a public good, and for equality and social justice”.
According to the UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tyrone Pretorius, O’Connell took the helm at a time when the university was facing the aftermath of staff retrenchments, financial vulnerability, the significant loss of academic leadership, evolving enrolment trends, and a despondent campus community.
“In his inaugural address in 2002, O’Connell argued that a university hardly deserves the name if it does not provide a space to grow in hope, to create and share knowledge, and to inform the agency.
“Through this approach, he emphasised the strength of using UWC’s distinctive academic role to rebuild the institution as an inspirational community of hope, to be a premier site of knowledge production, and to draw on the agency of its people to use and produce knowledge as agents of change,” Pretorius recalled.
Under O’Connell’s leadership, the university cemented trusted relationships with several universities internationally.
“These networks served as a strong catalytic force which laid the foundation for new partnerships and alliances.”
He mentioned that O’Connell’s legacy is one of passionate conviction, intellectual clarity and engaged leadership.
“As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he has had on our university and our society,” Pretorius added.
Among the many honorary doctorates Professor received, he was also bestowed the title Commander of the Order of Leopold II from the Belgian government for his contribution to the global tertiary institution sector.
“Professor O’Connell will be remembered in different ways by individuals he touched, but I have no doubt they will all remember his humility – from picking up litter on campus when he was the Rector, to setting an example for the campus community, or the simple gesture of remembering staff member’s names – even, at times, their families.
“He was warm, affable and always dignified in immensely pressurised and challenging situations.”
Both Nzimande and Pretorius extended their heartfelt condolences to the O’Connell family including his wife Judith and children, Amanda-Leigh and Bryan. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 09:39
Gold has been a symbol of wealth and luxury for centuries, and its value remains high. If you’re considering turning your gold into cash, it’s important to understand how to get the best deal. Whether you have gold jewelry, coins, or bars, knowing the best practices for selling gold can help you maximize your return. …
Water pressure in Bertrams is too low to fill geysers
Dozens of learners from inner-city schools competed in the 2nd Windybrow Arts Centre Spelling Bee competition
Shipping containers have evolved far beyond their original use for transporting goods across the world. Today, these sturdy and versatile structures are being repurposed for a wide range of applications, from storage solutions to innovative architectural projects. This article delves into the many uses of shipping containers, the availability of shipping containers for sale, and …
A Last Will and Testament is one of the most important documents you can create in your lifetime. It ensures that your wishes are carried out after you pass away, providing clarity and peace of mind to your loved ones. Despite its importance, many people delay the process of drafting a will, often due to …
A year after the tragedy, survivors and families of those who died in the Usindiso building want compensation
Need to replace the Lead Acid Batteries in your old inverter? Then the Hubble S100A Lithion Ion Battery is just for you. We know of many people who bought ‘Eskom in a Box’ to tide them over during loadshedding. Most of those trolley inverters contained Lead Acid Batteries – replacing them has become an expensive …
Gender dynamics and South African societal roles can hinder women’s healthcare as one-in-three women suffer from urinary incontinence, and one-in-four have pelvic floor disorders, conditions often overlooked, leaving many to suffer in silence. Additionally, CANSA reports breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers as the top three cancers affecting women. “At Urology Hospital we aim to dispel …
Benefits of just energy transition must be shared equally
As South Africa transitions towards a low carbon economy, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, says the benefits of energy renewable projects should be shared equitably with communities.
Addressing the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4All) in Pretoria, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of addressing potential job losses in the coal sector.
South Africa’s plans for the just energy transition will focus on the transition of the energy sector, as it navigates the shift away from coal towards cleaner sources of energy.
“It is essential that we approach this transition with humanity, providing support, training, and creating new opportunities within the renewable energy sector. A holistic approach is required, one that embraces clear and comprehensive national renewable energy policies sets defined targets and provides a roadmap for the transition.
“Community participation and ownership in renewable energy projects must be a cornerstone of this policy, ensuring that the benefits of this transition are shared equitably,” Singh said on Monday.
While necessary, he said the just energy transition does come with its set of challenges.
“Acknowledging our current economic growth's stagnation, the reliance on coal for energy, and the coal industry's role as a significant employment sector, we understand the complexities involved.
“Moreover, the challenge of making renewable energy technologies affordable and accessible cannot be overlooked. We need innovative financing mechanisms to ensure that clean energy solutions are within reach for all South Africans, especially those in low-income communities.
“As we chart our course forward, it is clear that no single solution can address the multifaceted challenges we face,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said for South Africa to truly succeed, it needs more than just policies and roadmaps.
“…We need action and commitment from every sector of our society. From all spheres of government to the private sector, from civil society to every citizen, we must unite in our efforts towards a sustainable future. Now is the time for us to harness the incredible potential of renewable energy, to innovate, to build, and to grow together.
“Therefore, our call to action as a responsible, interdependent, and interrelated government is not just to listen but to participate actively in this transition. Let us collaborate, innovate, and implement the solutions that will power our nation forward.
“Let us build a future that aligns with our environmental, economic, and social imperatives. A future where sustainable energy drives our progress, where no one is left behind, and where we stand as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of global challenges,” Singh said.
He stressed that local government is at the coal face of the country’s efforts, as this is where policy legislation and regulation turn into action.
“We must be focusing on a back-to-basics approach, getting the basics right with respect to our daily deliverables. More than half of the battle will be won if every local sphere of government gets the basics right. Innovation and consistently good service delivery are what will carry the day,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said electricity is the backbone of progress, an enabler that unlocks industrial growth, drives the economy, and promotes inclusivity.
“Yet, the sustainability of our progress hinges on our ability to shift towards clean energy. The spectres of poverty, inequality and unemployment cannot be exorcised without robust GDP [gross domestic product] growth, which in turn demands a stable and sufficient energy supply.
“However, our journey is compounded by the environmental cost of our past reliance on coal. This has left us with a legacy of environmental degradation and health issues, making our commitment to transitioning to renewable energy sources crucial for our environment and the well-being of our communities,” Singh said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 14:30
Hawks finally appear to be taking action against some of the fraudsters who ripped off the National Lotteries Commission
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September. Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family. The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of …
Access to safe and professional abortion services is a critical aspect of healthcare. In areas like Soweto, Randfontein, and Germiston, finding a reliable abortion clinic is important for those who need it. Understanding the Role of Abortion Clinics Abortion clinics provide essential services for individuals seeking to terminate a pregnancy safely and legally. These …
In the dynamic world of marketing and advertising, standing out at trade shows, exhibitions, and promotional events is crucial. One of the most effective tools in a marketer’s arsenal for achieving this is the use of banners. Among the various types of banners, retractable banners offer a blend of visibility, convenience, and professionalism that can …
The streets of Jozi are set to come alive with athletic energy and community spirit on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, as thousands of runners gather to participate in one of the city’s most iconic Heritage Day celebrations, the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. “The final event in a series of five, the Absa …