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11 July 2024, Johannesburg: Telkom is thrilled to announce a visual display of their digital origami, symbolizing the evolution from landline, call boxes to mobile technology, projected onto the historic UNISA Building in Pretoria, a site steeped in academic and cultural significance. Nestled alongside the iconic Telkom Tower, this visually stunning display marks a significant …
Lawyers for Human Rights plans to go to court again
Accounting officers must be accountable for non-payment of service providers
Accounting officers must be held accountable for the non-payment of service providers, says Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.
“Consequence management should be instituted against Accounting Officers who fail to pay service providers within 30 days upon receipt of an invoice,” he said.
Speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Monday, Gxoyiya said the non-payment of service providers in some instances result in some workers not receiving their salaries and loans not serviced.
He added that while there has been some improvement in paying service providers, more still needs to be done.
A recent report by National Treasury showed that in the 2023/24 financial year, national and provincial government departments had overall regressed in paying invoices to suppliers within the required 30 days.
“According to the report, the number of invoices paid after 30 days by the national departments was 108 917 to the rand value of R4.6 billion as at end of the financial year.
“This indicates an improvement of 2 365 or 2% when compared to invoices paid after 30 days by national departments in the 2022/23 financial year, which amounted to 111 282 invoices to the rand value of R4.1 billion,” he said.
Gxoyiya said the National Treasury report indicates the number of invoices older than 30 days and not paid by national departments at the end of March 2024 amounting to 1 427 invoices to the value of R53 million.
READ | Government departments fail to pay suppliers within 30 days
Provincial departments contributed 70% of invoices paid after 30 days.
“A total of 253 151 invoices amounting to R30.5 billion were paid after 30 days, representing a regression of 21 371 invoices or 9% when compared to the number of invoices paid after 30 days by provincial departments in the 2022/23 financial year which amounted to 231 780 invoices to the rand value of R29.3 billion.
“The PSC would like to commend departments who paid invoices on time for their commitment is ensuring that service providers are paid within the prescribed period. The non-payment of invoices within 30 days remains a concern to the PSC and a violation of the Public Finance Management Act,” he said.
The PSC said the most common reasons provided by departments for the late and/or non-payment of invoices vary from misfiled, misplaced or unrecorded invoices to inadequate internal control deficiencies.
“The National Treasury has since provided recommendations to assist departments in addressing the identified root causes for late and/or non-payment of invoices and to ensure improvement in compliance with the requirement to pay suppliers’ invoices within the prescribed period of 30 days. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:45
We need a new approach to policing from Minister Senzo Mchunu
To celebrate its 40th birthday, Protea Hotels by Marriott announced the opening of its first property in Angola while further strengthening its portfolio in South Africa with a new property in Pretoria. The newest additions – Protea by Marriott Luanda and Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield – will offer business and leisure travellers the chance to experience the vibrant local cultures and warm hospitality, along with exceptional accommodation, modern amenities and world-class service.
Protea Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's distinguished portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has grown significantly since its founding in July 1984. Starting with just four hotels in South Africa, the brand now boasts over 60 properties throughout South Africa and eight other African countries, including Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and now Angola. This extensive footprint across primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations makes Protea Hotels by Marriott a popular choice for travellers exploring Africa.
Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International, said, “This month we celebrate four decades of exceptional service and genuine African hospitality. What better way to commemorate this milestone than by further strengthening Protea Hotels' legacy with our first hotel in Angola and the ongoing expansion of the brand in South Africa. Both properties will combine contemporary comfort with a deep appreciation for local culture and heritage, offering guests a unique and enriching stay.”
Protea by Marriott Luanda
Protea Hotels by Marriott makes its debut in Angola with the opening of Protea by Marriott Luanda. Situated between the city centre of Luanda and Talatona, the new hotel offers proximity to a wide range of business, sports and private event destinations, as well as leisure retreats near the sea. The hotel interior creates a comfortable ambience across its public space and 84 guestrooms and suites, using contemporary furniture in African-styled terracotta colour and furnishings made with locally sourced materials. Guests can also admire the paintings by Guilherme Mampuya, a renowned Angolan artist based in Luanda. Culinary offerings include Múcua, an all-day restaurant serving up a modern fusion of Portuguese and Angolan cuisines, and a rooftop bar where guests can unwind with drinks and light bites against panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other facilities include a fully equipped gym and an outdoor pool with a waterfall.
Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield
Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield is strategically located in Hatfield, one of the most sought-after areas in Pretoria, providing business and leisure travellers with easy access to diplomatic, government and corporate offices as well as shopping centres, entertainment destinations and sporting facilities. The hotel features 203 contemporary guestrooms designed for comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience at The African Restaurant and Bar, which dishes up a fusion of global and African cuisines. A cosy 30-seater bar provides a relaxing space to unwind, while five state-of-the-art conference venues cater to both large-scale and intimate gatherings.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..
About Protea Hotels by Marriott:
Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and it is one of the most widely recognized brands on the continent with over 60 hotels across nine countries including South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi and Angola. Protea Hotels by Marriott® is ideal for both business and leisure travellers by offering properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations. Each hotel offers modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed rooms, ensuring global standards for a high quality, relaxed and successful stay.
About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3LgyVpn. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.
Functional transport sector is key to a successful economy
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says an efficient and functioning transport sector is key to a successful economy.
“Our roads and rail network are the arteries of our nation, [they] should move people and goods safely, speedily and affordably across the length and breadth of South Africa and facilitate our connectivity with the African continent and the wider world,” Creecy said on Monday.
The condition of roads, logistical and capacity issues affecting the freight network and road safety are just a few of the problems that have plagued the sector in recent times, she said at the opening of the South African Transport Conference currently underway in Pretoria.
“When our transport systems suffer, our economy faces depressed economic growth, declining investment and working people cannot get to their jobs affordably or on time and we see a rise in unemployment in a country that desperately needs more jobs,” the Minister explained.
She added that the 7th Administration is aware of the challenges and aims to address them comprehensively throughout the next five-year term.
“Areas of focus include key logistics corridors handling commodities that are essential to the export market and economic growth (such as coal and iron ore), addressing backlogs and congestion at strategic border crossings such as Komatipoort and Beitbridge, combatting congestion in key national highway corridors such as the N1 and N3, as well as interventions to combat cable theft and maintenance backlogs at Transnet.
“The National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) is a young structure, and it is also being employed as a means to encourage more private sector collaboration and participation with Government as we address the many challenges South Africa is facing in the area of logistics,” the Minister said.
Established last year, the Crisis Committee is chaired by President Ramaphosa and brings together all of the relevant government departments to drive a coordinated response to the logistics challenges.
“The workstreams of the Logistics Crisis Committee have been set up with personnel from key ministries, including from the Department of Transport and our Entities. The committee is working to ensure stability across the various supply chain and logistics sectors,” said the Minister.
Creecy thanked her predecessor, Sindisiwe Chikunga, for her instrumental role in the establishment of the NLCC and in encouraging further engagement between the private and public sector in tackling the problems the country is faced with.
The Minister said anchoring times for ships waiting to berth at the port of Durban have been reduced, and a terminal operator has been appointed to enter into a joint partnership with Transnet to develop and upgrade the port.
“PRASA [Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa] is continuing to reopen passenger rail lines severely affected by infrastructure damage and cable theft, with 28 of 40 priority lines being fully operational,” Creecy said.
According to Creecy, as of March this year, 256 stations are fully functional in cities across the country.
“I can report today that continuous work is being done to rehabilitate and open up more strategic commuter corridors. This will ensure that the public can rely on safe, secure, punctual, and affordable public rail services that will not hinder their participation in the economy,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 11:56
Commission issues Guide on Governance Practice for new Cabinet members
The new Cabinet and establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) is an important milestone in the existence of the 7th Administration, and public servants and other organs of the state must support the transition and ensure continuity of quality service delivery.
This is according to Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya who briefed the media in Pretoria on Monday.
He said public servants are expected to serve and support the newly elected leadership and government of the day in a dedicated, competent and professional manner in executing priority policies.
“The PSC was established to oversee the public service, amongst others, for an efficient and effective performance of public administration,” Gxoyiya said, adding that the GNU marks a significant moment in the nation's journey towards an accountable and transparent governance.
“A more serious warning should go to the entire public service to rethink how it engages with the citizens, but most importantly to ensure that it is guided by the values and principles governing public administration,” he said.
Gxoyiya said such a public service will reinforce citizen’s trust in the constitutional democracy.
“It is further a call to citizens to be vigilant and hold government accountable for service delivery,” he said.
Gxoyiya said as part of fulfilling its oversight mandate in this period of transition, the commission has released the Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department (2024) and a Circular to advise Executive Authorities, Heads of Department and employees regarding the prevention and management of unlawful instructions.
“The Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department provides a simplified reference source for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department on processes and procedures that are essential to promote good governance and performance in the public service.
“It covers work emanating from the PSC’s mandate and provides reference to other critical sources of information from other departments.
“This PSC Guide is intended to supplement Guides and Manuals issued by The Presidency, the Department of Public Service and Administration, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation and the National Treasury as part of readiness,” he said.
Gxoyiya said the commission encouraged Executive Authorities and Heads of Department to familiarise themselves with the contents of the guide.
The Guide is accessible at www.psc.gov.za under Documents, Reports, 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 14:48
PSC applauds officials who refuse to accept a bribes
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has applauded officials who refuse to accept bribes at the country’s ports of entry to South Africa.
“The integrity of officers at South Africa’s ports of entry plays a significant role in combating and preventing bribery and corruption in rendering customs, transport, and immigration services to the public,” said PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.
Addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya said this was demonstrated by officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS) and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) who refused to take bribes of R200 000 and R50 000 respectively, to allow a truck carrying 614 boxes of semi-manufactured tobacco worth over R6 million to enter the country.
He said the display of integrity by officials promotes a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.
“The PSC once more applauds the exemplary ethical behaviour displayed by the officials from SARS and the RTMC for refusing to take a bribe at the Beitbridge port of entry,” said the Commissioner.
“Bribery at the ports of entry manifest in various ways, including, but not limited to, facilitation payment, document falsification, preferential treatment and smuggling,” Gxoyiya said, adding that corrupt officials may cooperate with criminal networks to smuggle illicit goods and even enable human trafficking in exchange of bribes.
“In addition, the PSC would like to congratulate the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and officials in her department who were instrumental in the recovery of the R35 million in irregular payments made through SA Tourism's US and South Africa Offices, for services not rendered,” Gxoyiya said.
He said the recovery of the funds demonstrated their commitment in fighting corruption and ensuring that funds allocated to the department are used appropriately in line with the Public Finance Management Act.
“The PSC would like to encourage all public servants across the country to uphold the constitutional values and principles which calls for professional ethics and accountability. These actions will contribute towards building a professional, ethical, and capable public service,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:05
Democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of state bureaucracy
Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the transition from apartheid to a democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of the state bureaucracy.
“Though tailored to the South African context, South Africa’s public administration reforms – notwithstanding their debatable strengths and weaknesses – followed international trends, from Traditional Public Administration (TPA) through to variants of New Public Management (NPM),” Gxoyiya said.
Speaking in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya said governments worldwide continuously reform to promote efficient public administration that is responsive to people’s needs and the countries’ social, economic and technical challenges.
“Similarly, there is recognition that reforms vary from country to country, and in the case of South Africa, the transition from apartheid to a democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of the state bureaucracy,” Gxoyiya said.
He said the need for reflection on the historical and current factors that have shaped public service administration as it is known today became unavoidable at the tail end of 30 years of democratic governance in South Africa.
“The PSC has consistently argued that the realisation of the fundamental rights in the Constitution and the peremptory adherence to the Constitutional Values and Principles (CVPs) are central to public administration reform.
“Simply put, one way of evaluating the public administration reforms in South Africa is to examine the public services provided and citizen’s perception of their efficacy,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:21
Municipalities' R78 billion Eskom debt an 'urgent task' - Ramokgopa
The R78 billion debt owed to Eskom by municipalities must be urgently addressed to protect the ability of the power utility to fulfil its mandate.
This is according to Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgop,a who addressed the media on Monday.
“Collectively, municipalities are owing Eskom R78 billion and…a lot of this is irrecoverable. There’s no possibility under the sun that we are going to collect that R78 billion. It’s important that we resolve this picture.
“This picture presents problems for Eskom. Eskom needs this money for it to be able to reinvest back into its own infrastructure. Municipalities have to pay that money…but on an objective ground, they simply don’t have the means to be able to pay,” he said at the briefing held in Pretoria.
Ramokgopa said the current trajectory of the debt owed to Eskom poses a threat to the existence of the power utility in the future.
“To give you the magnitude of the problem, if we don’t resolve this problem, our projection is that at the current rate, by 2050, Eskom will be owed R3.1 trillion. Eskom will collapse. Generation capacity is going to be compromised. So, it’s important that we resolve this question.
“This is the most urgent task that is confronting us. It is municipality related but we can’t fold our arms, we need to help them from a technical point of view.”
He emphasised that continued non-payment is affecting Eskom’s ability to address distribution infrastructure needs – leading to the implementation of load reduction.
Load reduction is implemented in areas when the demand is higher than the infrastructure is able to handle.
“In the solution, we must protect the interests of Eskom as a going concern, ensure that municipalities are able to collect [revenue] but also protect the interests of the user. Because when that distribution infrastructure fails that is providing electricity to 50 houses, there’ll be 10 to 20 houses that have been paying diligently but they are collateral damage.
“The biggest victims of all of that is the end consumer and, by definition, is the South African economy,” he said.
The Minister said the department, together with municipal leaders will address the challenge of electricity affordability and access to allow municipalities to be able to collect revenue.
“It is important that we must review electricity tariff models to enhance affordability and expand access. Everyone must have access to electricity and once they have access…make sure that they can afford it. That’s something that is going to receive our attention.
“Distribution is our albatross…it’s on a mode of self-destruction and the casualties are the poor. They are the ones that are subjected to conditions of load reduction in the main and even those who are diligent payers are subjected to load reduction.
“This can’t continue any further. It’s important that we arrest it so that we are able to ensure that the country is able to achieve its developmental objectives,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:22
Up to R70-million budgeted for building in central Pretoria
Creecy to deliver keynote address at transport conference
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy will deliver the opening address at the Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) on Monday in Pretoria.
The conference provides a platform for national and international dialogue on transport as a socio-economic development priority.
The platform also facilitates discussion and information exchange on the implementation of transport policy, strategy, and technology applications for all aspects and modes of transportation.
This year’s conference will focus on upskilling and reskilling the transport industry for current and future challenges.
The SATC, which attracts about 700 delegates each year, will take place at the CSIR International Convention Centre from 9 am. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 15:13
Inquest into deaths of four SANDF members
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has initiated an inquest into the deaths of four members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) who may have been poisoned by carbon monoxide.
The members were stationed on a 24-hour shift at Shaft 3, a dormant mining shaft in Orkney, North West, next to the abandoned Harry Oppenheimer stadium which has been a hotspot for illegal mining, according to the SANDF.
The deceased members are said to have been found inside a container structure which was used as a guard house for those on 24-hour duty on Saturday morning, 6 July 2024, when the next shift was taking over.
The police were called and upon inspection of the scene, all four had died, with their rifles on them and their items still intact.
“The district surgeon was called to the scene and examined the bodies and confirmed no injuries. A team from the Pretoria FSL Chemistry Unit, also attended the scene and preliminary findings are that the deaths of the members could have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, from a possible fire made by the members during the cold night inside the container structure,” the statement read.
The bodies of the deceased were transported to the Klerksdorp State Mortuary for further investigation and post-mortem.
“The names of the deceased will be announced once the families have been informed and all processes and formalities have been completed followed by the announcement of the funeral arrangements.”
The Minister of Defence and MilitaryVeterans Angie Motshekga and Deputy Minister Bantu Holomisa, have extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire defence family. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 15:41
Springboks make SA proud
The Springboks claimed victory against Ireland in a thrilling test match on Saturday.
The Boks beat Ireland 27-20 at a packed Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria in the Castle Lager Incoming Series.
The 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) winning team scored in the first three minutes of the evening game with a try by Kurt-Lee Arendse.
“The Boks held a 13-8 lead at the break and apart from a dominating opening 30 minutes, it was not the smoothest win ever, but a seven-point margin over the second ranked team in the world is not something to sniff at,” said SA Rugby.
The second half of the match that saw South Africa beat Ireland for the first time since 2016 was a tense affair.
“Overall, the goal was achieved but it was far from a perfect performance,” said Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus.
Bok captain Siya Kolisi said he was pleased with the result but cautioned that the series remained very much alive.
“Of course, this game was very important for us. We haven’t beaten them since 2016, so it was special for our confidence. But the job is not done yet. We want to win the series and we know they are going to come back harder,” said Kolisi.
“After that stellar opening performance by KB Motsilanyane, I knew we had this one in the bag #GoBokke #StongerTogether,” said new Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie in a social media post on X, previously known as Twitter.
This as the singer led the singing of the national anthem backed by the crowd gathered at the stadium.
“We are a winning nation,” the Minister said in a follow-up post.
The second test between the Springboks and Ireland is set to take place at Hollywoodbets Kings Park stadium in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 10:59
Competition between brothers is nothing new but the Harris brothers have increased the stakes by competing for opposing countries at the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. Pretoria-based brother Stef Harris, who relocated from Zimbabwe to South Africa in 2005, will be representing the South African side in this year’s polocrosse contest. Meanwhile, older brother …
MoU to empower public servants
The National School of Government (NSG) and the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce a new three-year postgraduate Diploma in Public Affairs and African Governance for public servants in Africa.
In partnership with the African Management Development Institute Network (AMDIN), and supported by the European Union, the NSG developed the curriculum and content of the postgraduate programme in African Governance.
According to the National School of Government, the intent of the programme is to strengthen governance on the African continent and to professionalise public servants of partner countries.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, Principal of the National School of Government, Professor Busani Nqcaweni, said he is delighted at the partnership between the NSG and the Tshwane University of Technology.
“We felt we needed to partner with an institution that can share our ideas,” Prof Nqcaweni said.
Prof Nqcaweni explained that the postgraduate Diploma is for African public servants.
“This qualification is the first on the continent and we trust that TUT will be able to deliver the programme,” he said, adding that the signing of the MoU did not come easy for TUT - having been nominated from 26 universities.
He explained that the initiative is aimed at enhancing interaction among African public servants beyond formal high-level meetings which will bring together cohorts of students from across the continent encouraging a trans disciplinary approach to governance challenges.
Prof Mashupye Herbet Maserumule, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the Tshwane University of Technology, said the relationship between the two institutions was long overdue.
“We are the most affordable and accessible university in South Africa and we attract more than 1000 foreign students,” he said, adding that the institution wants to be ready for the changing world of work.
“We are looking forward to this interesting relationship and partnership, and we as the institution have an obligation to share knowledge and education,” he said.
Professionalising the public service
The target audience for the course is public servants across the African continent but it will also be offered to the general public.
Participants will be expected to spend at least a week at a public service institution in another country in an exchange programme.
The partnership between NSG and TUT is expected to significantly contribute to the professionalisation of the public service across Africa, enhancing governance and aligning with the continent's developmental goals.
The new programme seeks to bridge the gap between undergraduate and postgraduate education opportunities in member countries and to offer a regionally recognised qualification.
The conceptualisation and design of this programme is aligned to the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 to implement developmental programmes and to realise the aspiration for good governance in Africa.
Mandate
The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA).
The NSG is mandated with the responsibility of ensuring that public servants comply with the provisions of established legislation, regulations and systems, and can exercise proper discretion and innovation in solving routine and complex delivery problems.
The NSG is furthermore expected to ensure service delivery impact by supporting institutional performance.
The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental state the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).
The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase to middle and senior management as well as executive management. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 11:48
Tucked between the busy cities of Pretoria in Gauteng and Rustenburg in the North West is the Magaliesberg region, a natural oasis that many people tend to overlook when seeking a holiday destination, a weekend break or day trip. “This area, with its rugged mountains, green valleys, and diverse wildlife, is a great spot for …
GNU: A new era for SA
As the new Cabinet of the seventh administration gets to grips with the workings of their various portfolios - it has been advised to place ordinary South Africans at the heart of the administration.
“Show the ordinary South Africans that their well-being is the ultimate goal and at the heart of those running government and the administration,” Extraordinary Professor at the Department of Political Sciences at the University of Pretoria, Henning Melber, told SAnews.
Melber’s comments follow on the announcement on Sunday, 30 June 2024, of the new National Executive of the seventh administration by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The much-anticipated announcement is the result of the National and Provincial Elections that were held on 29 May. For the first time in democratic South Africa’s history, that election did not result in an outright majority for a single party to lead the country for the next five years.
The will of the people
In those initial days following from the point where voting took place, up to the announcement of the results, ordinary citizens were wondering what would happen next. After all, we were accustomed to living in a country that since the advent of democracy, was led by a single majority party.
However, from the hotly contested elections themselves to the announcement of the election results, peace was the order of the day. This also extended to the period of the swearing in of Members of Parliament (MPs) and other MPs at a later stage, as well as the election of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane. The election and inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa as President and head of government of the seventh administration was also peaceful.
An acceptance of the will of the people at the ballot box also played an important part in where the country finds itself today with the seventh administration’s Government of National Unity (GNU) starting to take shape.
This GNU, however, differs from the one that South Africa had, following the seminal elections of 1994 that saw the African National Congress (ANC) go into a GNU with two other political parties, despite having won an outright majority. The current GNU comprises 11parties across the political spectrum.
These parties are: the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation.
Collaboration
In an interview with SAnews, Melber further advised parties involved in the GNU to “collaborate with members of other parties based on trust; seeking to improve efficiency in service delivery.”
With this rather eventful week drawing to a close, South Africans not only witnessed the announcement of the new Cabinet, but also the swearing in of the new executive, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile as well as the induction programme of new MPS in the Western Cape.
And yes, it did take some time to get to where we are now as a country, but we must remember that Rome was not built in a day.
In his address to the nation on Sunday, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the length of time it took to put together the administration.
Confidence vs Time
However, Melber points out that given the different elements at play, the process in truth did not take too much time.
He said that given the rather unusual, if not complicated blend of parties who needed to secure common ground, and agreeing on an acceptable power sharing arrangement in terms of portfolios -, this process had actually not taken that long.
“And it was a necessary investment in building a minimum degree of confidence and trust as a point of departure. There are democracies who for months (among others The Netherlands, Sweden) if not years (Belgium) had not a proper government and were neither less politically stable. Many observers at least in the Western democracies were hoping for such a power-sharing arrangement and did not expect this to happen much faster. Building a reliable collaboration between political parties so different in their programmes needs time,” Melber explained.
A new era
In his inauguration address on 19 June 2024, President Ramaphosa described the GNU as “the beginning of a new era” adding that it requires a common mission, which is anchored in safeguarding national unity, peace, stability, inclusive economic growth, non-racialism and non-sexism.
Asked about his thoughts on the GNU, Melber said: “Under the given circumstances of the election result, the decision to form a GNU seemed to be a wise and considerate move, aiming to accommodate a broad middle for political stability in a government, in which the ANC remains the major party.”
The announcement of the new Cabinet also came with changes in government departments that involve the merger of the Ministries of Electricity and Energy as well as the announcement of a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The President also announced the separation of the Ministry of Agriculture from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development, among others.
“This is a necessary adjustment to accommodate divergent interests seeking influence in governance. If in the end - despite some further bloating of the structures - it provides a reliable operational structure to make improvements in delivery - it is a well justified investment,” said the Professor.
South Africa’s future under a GNU is now underway with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni having held the first media briefing of the seventh administration on Thursday, 4 July 2024.
At that briefing, the Minister outlined the process that would be followed to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration. These said the Minister, will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU.
To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.
After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for 11-12 July.
The two-day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.
“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets,” explained Minister Ntshavheni.
Happiness trajectory
Following the elections and Sunday’s cabinet announcement, South Africa’s happiness trends have been on an upright trajectory.
This is according to the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index. The index is the brainchild of Professor Talita Greyling of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Prof Stephanie Rossouw of the Auckland University of Technology, with the technical support of AFSTEREO (Pty) Ltd.
According to UJ, the GNH is the first index of its kind and measures the real-time sentiment of the country.
“The much-anticipated announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the new GNU Cabinet on 30 June 2024 is being experienced positively by the South African people, as shown by the near real-time Happiness Index of the GNH.today project.
“The happiness levels in South Africa have been trending upward since the election results were announced in June 2024, from 5.36 to 5.42,” the university said in a statement.
The GNH.today project measures happiness in near real-time based on specific emotion words used in Google searches.
“The GNU ensures a broad representation and a solid mandate to govern the country, contributing to higher levels of transparency, accountability, and trust in the government. It also explains the higher happiness levels, reflecting hope for a better future,” said the university.
In analysing the positive trend in the happiness index, the team found that positive emotion words used in South Africa increased, such as “hope”, “happiness”, and “joy”.
However, there was an increase in negative emotion words such as “bad” and “afraid”, but with a positive net effect.
“The increase in both positive and negative words is expected as it indicates the debate around the newly appointed cabinet. Different parties criticise the portfolio allocations and the ministers appointed. The increased size of the government is also critiqued. On the other hand, there is relief that the Cabinet was announced after almost a month of negotiations.
“This announcement implies an agreement about power-sharing,” said the university.
Asked about whether he thinks the GNU will stick, Professor Melber is hopeful.
“I’m afraid I have misplaced my crystal ball,” he chirps.
“More seriously [though,] one hopes for the sake of South African citizens that this GNU manages to operate and serve the best interest of the people. If this construction holds, it is a win-win situation for all the parties who were able to compromise for the sake of the people and the country’s stability,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 12:54
Mpox cases rise to 20 with infections expected to increase
Four additional Mpox cases have been reported in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, with infections expected to rise as contact tracing efforts are stepped up.
This pushes the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox in South Africa to 20 since the outbreak in May 2024.
According to the Department of Health’s data, all cases involve males aged between 17 to 43 years old.
The recent infections include a 17-year-old man from Hillbrow in Johannesburg, a 37-year-old from Pretoria East, a 29-year-old from West Rand, and a 19-year-old from Durban in KwaZulu-Natal.
Of the 20 cases, 10 were recorded in Gauteng, nine cases in KwaZulu-Natal and one from Western Cape.
Meanwhile, the death toll has remained at three since the outbreak.
READ | Everything you need to know about Mpox disease
The department said outbreak response teams have been activated for the newly diagnosed cases.
“Another batch of Mpox-specific treatment is expected to arrive in the country in the next few weeks as the number of cases is also expected to rise due to intensified contact tracing, risk communication and community engagement activities in the affected communities.”
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has received over 130 test requests since the outbreak of Mpox in South Africa.
“The department appeals to all contacts of confirmed cases and suspected cases to cooperate with health workers during contact tracing, screening and 21-day monitoring period, to ensure no case is left undetected.”
According to the department, contact tracing is one of the critical tools available to effectively break the chains of local transmission and control the Mpox outbreak.
“All people with suspected symptoms are reminded to visit their nearest healthcare facility right away for clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment options, instead of self-diagnosing and isolation.”
The common symptoms of Mpox include a rash which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands.
“The rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and so on,” the department explained. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 10:06
Minister accused of placing fishing industry interests above the survival of penguins
Organisation that provided food and social services owed R2.9-million
While the days will be dominated by sports and retail action at the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, music and dance lovers will be treated to some of the best local artists who are bringing the vibe to the sunset, after-dark, and concert sessions! These rocking parties form part of The Ballito Pro festival …
Saluting former Minister Naledi Pandor
Praises from around the world are rolling in for Dr Naledi Pandor as she steps down from her government position after serving as a Member of Parliament (MP) since 1994.
Pandor is one of the Ministers who is not returning to Parliament to serve in the seventh administration.
In February this year, the outgoing International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister alluded to her retirement during an African National Congress (ANC) event in Cape Town.
She stated that she would “in any case not hold public office” after serving in the position since 2019.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet, appointing Ronald Lamola to replace Pandor. Lamola had previously served as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Since then, warm wishes and tributes commemorating Pandor’s work continue to pour in.
DIRCO Director-General, Zane Dangor, described Pandor as one of the most principled and dynamic Ministers he has ever worked with and someone with an “unrivalled” intellect.
Pandor, a former teacher and lecturer, has numerous qualifications under her belt.
In interviews, Pandor credits her love for books and education to her anti-apartheid activist parents, Joe and Fikile Matthews, during the years they spent with her in exile.
Born in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, she grew up in exile. She completed her education in Botswana and London in the United Kingdom, achieving a professional qualification in teaching and a Master’s Degree in Education.
She holds a PhD from the University of Pretoria, a Master’s Degree in General Linguistics from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Diploma in Leadership and Development from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.
She received honorary doctorates from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Stellenbosch, University of Lisbon, and University College Dublin.
Dangor said Pandor made her mark in all areas she worked in.
“In the last five years, she emerged as one of the world’s leading and valued diplomats,” he added.
Adoration of a daughter
Pandor’s daughter, Dr Aisha Pandor, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to also honour her mother.
She shared that her mom has been a member of the ANC and an activist for as long as she can remember.
“I share a birthday with the ANC, and for most of my life, I proudly spent January 8th with other family or friends, while my parents served the party," she said.
After being elected as an MP in 1994, Naledi Pandor quickly rose to the position of Deputy Chief Whip of the ANC caucus in 1995. Subsequently, she was elected Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces in 1998 and then became chairperson in 1999.
“Since I was almost nine years old, she has served as a member of South Africa’s democratic government. During those three decades, she has led with dedication, integrity, intelligence, wisdom, a love for her country, and a focus on principles, those held high by her religion, upbringing, country and party,” Pandor’s daughter said.
Aisha mentioned that she admired her mother and was excited about the next phase of her life.
“Yesterday, I told her countless times how much I love her; how much she inspires me, and how proud I am of her. I’m also hoping that as by far the most hardworking person I’ve ever met, she finally takes a bit of well-deserved time for rest.”
Gaza
Pandor is celebrated for her fearless advocacy for her country’s stance on Gaza. She has persistently called for increased action against Israel’s invasion of Palestine.
Under her leadership, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, as well as to provide more assistance to Palestinian civilians. This comes as Israel continues to engage in a conflict with Hamas militants.
The SKA and other ministerial appointments
During her time as Minister of Science and Technology, Pandor and her team successfully secured a competitive bid in 2012 to host part of the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope in South Africa.
She has also served as the Minister in the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Education.
Serving with integrity
In 2022, she received a Lifetime Achievement award at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards for the role she played in government.
Former Minister and World Bank Group Executive Director, Ayanda Dlodlo, stated that Pandor’s integrity was unparalleled and that her work ethic was exceptional, demonstrating servant leadership.
“What a woman. What a leader… Hope the next chapter of her life is even more fulfilling with more time with her family and many moments of love and laughter.”
The German Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, also expressed his thoughts on the matter.
“We would like to thank Dr Naledi Pandor, outgoing Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, for her tireless diplomatic work. For Germany, it was a privilege to work with you. Re a leboga, Mme [Thank you, Mother],” the Ambassador said.
Founder of the Kenya Climate Directory, Reuben Wambui, expressed his disappointment at Pandor’s departure from the Cabinet.
“Naledi is the true embodiment of diplomatic genius, and we will really miss seeing her conduct international affairs on the world stage. Thank you Naledi for your excellent service.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 13:14
Can tracking mouse footprints give clues to climate change? Yves Vanderhaeghen speaks to the founders of WildTrack, which is pioneering technology in South Africa to track small mammals so they can tell us about disruptions to ecosystems. Is it a mouse? A shrew? A rat? We can read a lot into the pawprints of small …