MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The 14th season of South Africa’s biggest pitching competition, Pitch & Polish, promises to be another nail-biting instalment. While the programme will follow the same winning formula as last year, where contestants engaged in a gripping battle of business pitches as they competed for the ultimate prize, there will be a notable change: a new …
Pretoria, South Africa – In a digital landscape saturated with cookie-cutter websites, standing out from the competition has never been more crucial for businesses. Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, South Africa, unveils the keys to website distinctiveness in their latest industry insights. Have you ever scrolled through your competitor’s websites …
Lesetja Kganyago reappointed as SARB governor
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reappointed Lesetja Kganyago as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) for a period of five years.
The reappointment will take effect from November this year.
“The reappointment of Governor Kganyago will ensure continuity and institutional stability at the reserve bank.
“Furthermore, the President has reappointed Nomfundo Tshazibana and Dr Rashad Ismail Cassim as Deputy Governors of the South African Reserve Bank for a period of five years, with effect from 1 August 2024,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The statement said Dr Mampho Modise has been appointed as Deputy Governor following the end of term of former Deputy Governor Kuben Naidoo.
“Dr Modise is currently the Deputy Director-General for Public Finance Division in the National Treasury (NT). She started her career as an intern at the South African Reserve Bank in 2004 and progressed to role of economist at the bank. Dr Modise left the SARB in 2009 to join the National Treasury, where she started as a senior economist in the Economic Policy division.
“She was soon promoted to Director: Fiscal Policy, then to the Chief Director: Strategy and Risk Management in the Asset and Liability Management division of the NT. In 2017, she was promoted to the position of Deputy Director-General. Dr Modise completed her tertiary education at the University of Pretoria, obtaining her BCom Economics, BCom Honours Econometrics, MCom Econometrics (cum laude) and a PhD in Economics,” the statement said.
The appointment and reappointments were made in accordance with section 4(1) (a) read with section 5 (1) (a) of the South African Reserve Bank Act of 1989, and after consultations with the Minister of Finance and the board of directors of the SARB.
“The South African Reserve Bank Act of 1989 provides for the President to appoint the Governor along with three Deputy Governors and four Directors of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). Section 4 (1) (a), states that ‘The Bank shall have a board of fifteen directors, consisting of a Governor and three Deputy Governors (of whom one shall be designated by the President of the Republic as Senior Deputy Governor) who shall be appointed by the President of the Republic, after consultation with the Minister and the Board, as well as four other directors appointed by the President, after consultation with the Minister’,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 03/15/2024 - 12:48
SA, Ghana have great potential to unlock economic opportunities
President Cyril Ramaphosa says there is great potential to unlock economic opportunities through investment-led trade initiatives aimed at increasing the trade of value-added products between South Africa and Ghana.
“We need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job creating agricultural goods, and advanced manufactured and value-added products,” President Ramaphosa said.
Addressing the SA-Ghana Business Forum held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa and Ghana share a long and rich history defined by the struggle for freedom.
“This history provides a firm foundation to forge closer economic ties that can spur growth and development in both countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said South Africa is pleased to host the Business Forum to explore business opportunities that enhance bilateral economic relations.
Earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, reaffirmed the importance of nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The two Heads of State emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity, which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by a ministerial meeting on Monday,11 March. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 8 March.
At the Business Forum, President Ramaphosa said Africa has been at the lower-end of global value chains.
"We have abundant natural resources, but limited productive capability to process them for higher value capture.
“However, the need for a global transition to a low-carbon future offers the continent new opportunities to upgrade and diversify into technology-intensive global value chains. Our two countries are in a strategic position to benefit from the rapid growth of key clean energy manufacturing industries.
“Most of the minerals critical for the manufacturing of clean energy technologies, such as battery storage and electric vehicles, are held in Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said there is a need to improve manufacturing capacity and scale up production and export through the building of domestic and regional linkages and value chains.
READ | SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment
“It is important to explore practical cooperation between key players in industry to foster effective and mutually beneficial collaboration between our countries to promote green industrialisation.
“This will help to build on the strong trade and investment links between our economies. South Africa is already the largest purchaser of Ghanaian exports in Africa, and the third largest importer of Ghana’s products globally,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to move beyond trade in commodities and on to the purchase of job-creating agricultural goods, advanced manufactured and value-added products.
“The importance of Ghana to South Africa as an anchor partner country within West Africa is affirmed by the many South African trade missions to explore business opportunities in the form of investment-led trade,” he said.
The relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Ghana has grown exponentially over the years.
Cooperation between the two countries has been elevated from a Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation (PJCC) that is held at a Ministerial level to a Bi-National Commission, presided over by the two Heads of State and Government.
The Business Forum brought together companies and entrepreneurs from South Africa and Ghana with the aim of deepening trade and mutual investment and leveraging the opportunities created within the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Expanded trade and investment will stimulate growth and job creation in both countries and facilitate closer people-to-people interaction between the two nations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 10:41
University of Pretoria settles R400 million NSFAS unallocated funds
The University of Pretoria (UP) has fully paid the R400 million that is due to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in unallocated funds.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Special Investigating Unit said the money paid by the university was in unallocated funds from 2016 to 2021.
SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, said the money was paid in four instalments of R100 000 into the SIU’s Trust account, bringing the total recoveries to R 937 926 351 received from institutions of higher learning, since the investigating unit’s NSFAS investigation launched in September 2022.
Kganyago said the unallocated funds are monies for students who qualified for funding but either changed institutions or deregistered.
The funds stay in the possession of the institution for a year.
“The unallocated funds are due to poor control systems and a lack of reconciliation processes by the NSFAS and were not collected from institutions of higher learning. When approached by the SIU, the institutions cooperated, which led to a quick recovery process,” Kganyago explained.
Kganyago said the SIU has so far recovered the funds from institutions of higher learning, including the West Coast College which has repaid R5 057 679; NorthLink College R33 369 404.97; Walter Sisulu University R 19 900 174; Nkangala TVET College R342 672.50 and the University of Johannesburg R311 892 088.94, among others.
Kganyago said the SIU has also signed an acknowledgement of the debt agreement of R38 707 884.10 with Motheo TVET College in the Free State, as well as debt agreement of R10 997 855.50 with parents and students who did not meet the NSFAS funding criteria.
According to the SIU investigation, NSFAS failed to design and implement controls to ensure there is an annual reconciliation between the funds disbursed to the institutions and the allocation of those funds to the students.
The control weaknesses have led to overpayments and underpayments of funds to the different institutions over the period 2017 to date.
Kganyago said the NSFAS has recently appointed a service provider to assist them in performing the reconciliation via a process called “close-out reporting” which is ongoing.
The SIU has also found that Celbux – the e-wallet/voucher payment system- had many “dormant” accounts lying active on the Celbux system dating back to 2018 amounting to an estimated value of R320 million.
Celbux is a financial technology provider that facilitates the disbursement of money, on behalf of customers to anyone with a cell phone in a digital form.
On NSFAS-funded accommodation, the SIU discovered that details of the accommodation, including physical addresses and details of the landlord or owner of the accommodation were not captured on the NSFAS system. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 11:31
As a seasoned business owner with over 9 years of experience in delivering top-notch roofing and waterproofing solutions, I understand the significance of fortifying your property against the elements. Your property’s first line of defense is its exterior, and mastering the art of exterior waterproofing is paramount to ensure long-lasting protection. In this article, we’ll …
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the appointment of Dr. Hashendra Ramjee as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO)....
SA, Ghana explore ways to expand trade and investment
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the significance of expanding trade and investment between South Africa and Ghana, highlighting the need to explore avenues for enhancing cooperation beyond the existing areas covered by the Bi-National Commission (BNC).
He was delivering opening remarks at the second session of the South Africa-Ghana BNC held at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation's OR Tambo Building in Pretoria on Tuesday.
“In addition to the many areas of cooperation that the BNC covers, it is important that we explore how best both countries can increase trade and investment among ourselves.
“The purpose of the Business Forum that will take place on the margins of this BNC is to expand trade and investment between our two countries.
“Ghana is host to several South African companies. Our companies are keen to expand their investments in Ghana and look to us to work together to improve the business environment. We invite investors from Ghana to look at opportunities in our country,” the President said.
The President further emphasised that collaboration between the two countries' private sectors and State-owned entities is particularly important.
He told his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, that bidding for procurement contracts in each other’s countries, instead of sourcing from outside the continent, would be desirable and commercially viable.
The President highlighted that South African companies, including several in the banking sector, have expressed interest in exploring opportunities in line with Ghana’s investment plans.
“There is also scope for collaboration in infrastructure between our two economies, particularly in the building of dry ports, railway networks, airports and hospital facilities. There are also opportunities to be explored in the pre-chemicals sector.
“As we are both coastal countries, maritime shipping and the related economy holds potential for us and opportunities should be explored further in this regard. We need to work together to reverse the decline in trade between our countries over the past four years,” he said.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that the introduction of preferential trading within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a significant development, poised to substantially reshape trade dynamics across the continent.
“On the 31st of January 2024, South Africa sent its first shipment to Ghana and other countries under the AfCFTA Agreement. This is an important first step.
“For many African countries, the start of preferential trade will create great opportunities for growth and development,” he said.
Agreements between SA and Ghana
The BNC between South Africa and Ghana was inaugurated when President Nana Akufo-Addo hosted President Ramaphosa in Accra in 2020.
There are 24 agreements and memoranda of understanding between South Africa and Ghana covering various areas of economic, technical, scientific, social and cultural cooperation.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that they must accelerate the implementation of these agreements and finalise discussions on additional agreements.
He pointed out that one of the recent highlights in bilateral relations was the signing of the reciprocal visa exemption for ordinary passport holders for a period of 90 days per annum, which entered into force on the 1st of November 2023.
“This has resulted in a considerable increase of travellers between our two countries, contributing not only to tourism but towards enhancing business-to-business links, educational and scientific exchanges, and people-to-people ties,” he said.
Peace and security
As the two Heads of State meet at a time when the state of peace and security is fragile across the globe, President Ramaphosa emphasised that they redouble their efforts to 'Silence the Guns in Africa'.
He said they need to capacitate the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities to do more in pursuit of peace and stability.
“Internal strife, conflicts and wars, compounded by terrorism and violent extremism, are a major obstacle to peace, security and stability. They threaten to constrain our developmental efforts and our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The situations in Sudan, Somalia, Libya and the Sahel, among others, are of grave concern, as are the armed hostilities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and the extremist insurrection in northern Mozambique,” he said.
Elections in Africa
President Ramaphosa further highlighted that this will be an important year for democracy in Africa, with 19 African countries – including South Africa and Ghana – holding presidential or national elections in 2024.
He emphasised that these elections are important for the quality of governance and the strength of democracy on the continent.
“We must, however, be concerned that in several parts of the continent, unconstitutional changes of government, particularly through military coups, are on the rise.
“Global developments, such as the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, continue to threaten food and energy security in Africa,” he said.
The President said African nations, with their own bitter experiences of colonial occupation, are extremely concerned by the terrible events in Palestine and the suffering unleashed on the people of Gaza.
“On our own continent, the matter of Western Sahara remains unresolved. As we pursue our own developmental goals, we stand in solidarity with all who continue to suffer the effects of occupation and dispossession,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 13:42
SA-Ghana strengthen relations
President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Ghanaian counterpart, President Nana Akufo-Addo, have reaffirmed the importance of the continued nurturing of the existing historic relations and bonds of friendship between the two countries.
The two heads of state emphasised that these relations are based on mutual partnership and solidarity which date back to the struggle against apartheid and colonialism.
President Akufo-Addo is in South Africa on a Working Visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa, to co-chair the 2nd Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
Tuesday’s BNC, which was held at the Department of International Relations offices in Pretoria, was preceded by the Ministerial Meeting on Monday,11 March 2024. Meanwhile, a senior officials meeting was held on Friday, 08 March 2024.
In a joint communique, the two Heads of State expressed appreciation regarding the broadening and sustained entrenchment of bilateral cooperation in a wide range of sectors.
They renewed their commitment to work closely to further enhance strategic cooperation and partnership for mutual benefit.
“In this context, the Heads of State noted with satisfaction that 46 decisions were taken during the BNC and directed respective Ministers to ensure full implementation of these decisions. Furthermore, the Heads of State directed respective Ministers to finalise modalities for enhanced cooperation on Cross Easy and Cross Border related matters,” read the communique.
The Heads of State further acknowledged the existence of 24 legal instruments which were signed since the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the two countries as the additional five Agreements and/or Memorandums of Understanding which were signed during this session.
Silencing the guns
The Heads of State, however, underscored that the current number of legal instruments is not a true reflection of the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, and urged the respective Ministers to leverage the existing potential to deepen cooperation.
On continental issues, the Heads of State took note of the ongoing peace and security challenges in some parts of the African continent and underscored the need to redouble efforts to realise the African Union Agenda 2063 aspiration to “Silence the Guns”.
Trade
“The Heads of State also underscored the need for a common approach in the operationalisation of the decisions of the African Union related to the implementation of Agenda 2063 in general and the African Continental Free Trade Agreement [AfCTA] to bolster intra-Africa trade, in particular.
“In this regard, the Heads of State expressed satisfaction that South Africa-Ghana Business Forum, which was held on the margins of the BNC, places the two countries at the cusp of increased bilateral trade and enhanced contribution to intra-Africa trade as envisaged by the AfCTA Agreement,” noted the communique.
Furthermore, the Heads of State commended the first shipment of South African exports to Ghana in January 2024 in a ceremony which was witnessed by President Ramaphosa.
READ | SA sends first shipment under AfCFTA agreement
International developments
The Heads of State further exchanged views on international developments, particularly the ongoing carnage in the Palestinian territories as a result of the ongoing Israel and Hamas war.
“The two Heads of State called for an immediate cease fire and the opening of space for medical supplies and related humanitarian assistance for the needy and the destitute.
“Similarly, the Heads of State agreed to intensify support for the cause of Western Sahara for self-determination, freedom, and justice.”
The two Heads of State further renewed their call for a responsive international system of governance through a reformed United Nations Security Council, respect for and promotion of universal human rights in a just and equitable world.
At the end of the Second Session of the BNC, President Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude to President Ramaphosa for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation since their arrival in Pretoria. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 14:00
Over 27.79 million voters eligible to cast their votes in 2024 Elections
The Independent Electoral Commission says over 27.79 million voters - the highest since the dawn of democracy in South Africa, are eligible to cast their votes in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
According to the Commission, the voters’ roll will be certified by the Chief Electoral Officer today.
Briefing media in Pretoria on Monday, Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said the voters' roll will be published by making it available at the Commission’s head office, each of the nine provincial offices of the Commission and at each municipal office of the Commission.
“The certification follows the finalisation of objections by the Commission on the provisional voters’ roll that was published for inspection on 26 February 2024. Certification signals confirmation of those citizens who are eligible to vote in the elections,” he said.
Mamabolo said the electronic copies of the voters’ roll, which contain the redacted identity numbers of voters, in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act will be provided to all political parties and independent candidates who have qualified to contest the elections.
“Since the voters’ roll was compiled for the first time ahead of the 1999 National and Provincial Elections, it has shown steady growth of over 35% and contains the highest number of registered voters, recording an increase of 9.6 million voters since the 1999 general elections.
“The provincial breakdown of the registered voters indicate that Gauteng remains the biggest voting block, followed by the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, respectively.
“The highlight of the certified roll is the increase in the rate of representation by persons in the age cohort 18 - 39 years. This age band accounts for 42% (or 11. 7 million) voters on the voters’ roll,” he said.
Mamabolo said of the 27.79 million voters, 15 million are female, representing over 55%.
“The introduction of the online self-service voter registration modality has contributed to the increased rate of registration by younger voters in the country, as well as by citizens who are resident outside of the Republic,” he said.
Mamabolo said compliance verification of the candidate nomination submissions is under way.
“In terms of the law, a party submission must contain a list of candidates accompanied by payment of the applicable deposit for it to be compliant. In respect of unrepresented parties, the submission must in addition, be accompanied by proof that the requisite number of signatures have been uploaded on the nomination portal,” he said.
According to Mamabolo, the requirements for independent candidates are that a prescribed nomination form must be submitted by the cut-off time, accompanied by the prescribed form confirming that the candidate has submitted the requisite number of signatures and payment of the relevant deposit.
“Failure by a party or independent candidate to comply with any of these foundation nomination requirements cannot be remedied and will result in the disqualification of the party or independent candidate,” he said.
Last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced 29 May for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
The President Ramaphosa has, in line with section 17(2) of the Electoral act 73 of 1998, consulted with the Electoral Commission on the election date.
READ | Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections
The announcement of the Election Date comes after the successful voter registration campaign, which included two general registration weekends, an overseas voter registration drive, campus activations and registration within Correctional Services centres.
READ | IEC campaign to help youth participate in democracy
The 2024 Elections coincide with South Africa's celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
President Ramaphosa has called on all eligible voters to fully participate in this important and historic milestone of the democratic calendar. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 10:04
Inquiry into unauthorised circulation of party lists
The Electoral Commission has instituted an inquiry to establish the circumstances of the unauthorised circulation of party candidate lists and the person or persons responsible.
On Saturday, the Commission reported that it had become aware of lists of candidates that were being circulated on social media platforms.
Briefing the media in Pretoria on Monday afternoon, the Electoral Commission Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said following investigations over the weekend and early hours of Monday, the Commission was in a position to give a preliminary report.
The investigation narrowed the source of the disclosure to a workstation that had been used to generate and store reports.
Later, the said reports were deleted from the workstation.
“Earlier today [Monday] the workstation was secured and imaged in the presence of the staff member whose credentials were used to generate the reports. A forensic analysis of the computer is currently under way,” said Mamabolo.
Mamabolo said the Commission reiterates its regret for the unauthorised disclosure of the lists and the disclosure of personal information of candidates on those lists.
“The Commission continues to cooperate with the Information Regulator in this regard,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 10:20
Makhubele is accused of abetting state capture while she was chair of PRASA
PSC calls on public servants to vote
The Public Service Commission has called on all eligible South Africans to cast their votes in the upcoming National and Provincial Elections.
“The employees of the public service are to lead by example and are encouraged to take responsibility to educate societies we live in regarding the significance of voting,” said Public Service Commission Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.
Addressing the media in Pretoria on Monday, Gxoyiya said it was advisable that every eligible citizen use this democratic opportunity in having their say on how this country should be taken forward.
“If we want to see change, this is the opportunity now to influence that change,” Gxoyiya said.
Gxoyiya said the call is extended to the youth of this country because they represent the future leaders. “They must participate in the decision of who becomes the leaders of our democratic dispensation,” he said.
Last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced 29 May for 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
The announcement of the Election Date followed a successful voter registration campaign, which included two general registration weekends, an overseas voter registration drive, campus activations and registration within Correctional Services centres.
The 2024 Elections coincide with South Africa's celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
President Ramaphosa has called on all eligible voters to fully participate in this important and historic milestone of South Africa’s democratic calendar.
According to the IEC, more than 27 million South Africans are registered to vote and 14 million others remain unregistered but are eligible to do so.
Unregistered voters and those who need to update their address details can visit their local municipality office, the Electoral Commission or go to the online voter registration portal, registertovote.elections.org.za or reach the chat bot on 0600 88 00 00 WhatsApp line. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:09
Chronic kidney disease (CKD), a gradual and irremediable loss of kidney function (kidney failure), affects up to one in eight South Africans, more than 850 million people worldwide, and resulted in over 3.1 million deaths (2019). Fundamentally, untreated kidney failure can be life threatening. Presently, kidney disease ranks as the 8th leading cause of death, …
PSC study makes recommendations on hybrid work arrangements
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has completed a study on the impact of hybrid work arrangements on service delivery in the public service.
PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the COVID-19 pandemic forced most organisations, including government, to consider alternative working arrangements in order to limit human and physical interaction.
“This resulted in the introduction of hybrid workspaces and the working from home (WFH) option that was new for most employees, as only a few private companies offered this option pre-COVID-19,” Gxoyiya said at a briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
The study focused on the shutdown period from March 2020 and the subsequent lockdown levels as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gxoyiya explained that the purpose of the study was to investigate the actual and perceived impact that the introduction of hybrid work and work from home arrangements had on service delivery in the public service in selected departments, with a view to formulate recommendations that could assist the public service to adapt.
He said the study focused on six service delivery departments/institutions in the public service, which are Education, Employment and Labour, Health, South African Social Security Agency, Home Affairs and the South African Police Service.
The report of the study makes the following recommendations:
• The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) should benchmark with other countries to determine how the hybrid work arrangement was managed during the pandemic and how it is being taken forward as a basis to review relevant legislation, regulations, directives, policies and conditions of service for different categories of occupations and/or employees.
• The public service, led by the DPSA, National Treasury and the Department of Communications and Digital Services, must take the lead in digitising government operations and prioritising access to tools of trade that will enable the effective implementation of hybrid work arrangements, where feasible.
• Departments, in collaboration with the National School of Government, should incorporate continuous training programmes on new technologies that are necessary to facilitate remote work arrangements, online collaboration and remote access to centralised systems as well as other emerging innovations for employees to stay abreast of the new developments.
• National Treasury, in collaboration with departments such as the DPSA and Public Works and Infrastructure, must conduct a cost-benefit analysis of implementing hybrid work arrangements for selected non-essential service departments in order to identify possible cost-saving measures and possible once-off cost drivers as a basis to generate resources to fund critical areas of need, including the rapid adoption of technology-enabled solutions and provision of other essential services to the public.
Gxoyiya noted that the findings of the study suggest that existing primary legislation and policies were and are still silent on the practice of working from home or hybrid work arrangements.
“During the lockdown period, the gap had to be addressed through the passing of new regulations, directions and guidelines to enable departments to put measures in place to comply with the COVID-19 regulations whilst still ensuring work continuity.
“The study documents a combination of positive and negative practices/experiences, including notable innovative measures that were put in place by public service departments, as well as the commitment of many employees who put their lives at risk in order to provide services to the public,” Gxoyiya said.
Gxoyiya said there were challenges noted with regard to the implementation of the hybrid work arrangement which included, amongst others, capacity constraints; additional expenses that were not budgeted for; inaccessibility of some service sites when some staff members tested positive for COVID-19; inconsistent practices in granting employees permission to work from home between and within departments, and lack of appropriate tools of trade for some employees.
“Performance was managed differently according to the different departments and in some instances, it varied within the different units in the respective departments,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:16
Ben Freeth will petition for the reinstatement of the SADC Tribunal
Non-payment of invoices has a huge implication for small business
The Public Service Commission (PSC) says the non-payment of suppliers’ invoices has huge implications for small businesses that rely on cash flow for survival.
“Therefore, there is a need for urgent and timeous payment of suppliers given the critical role of procurement in economic development and emancipation,” said Public Service Commission Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.
At a media briefing in Pretoria on Monday, Gxoyiya said the total number of invoices paid after 30 days by national departments amounts to 33 394 to the value of R1 billion, whereas in the first quarter these departments recorded 26 223 invoices to the value of R1.2 billion.
He said by the end of the second quarter, all national departments submitted their 30 days payment reports to the National Treasury as required with an average timeous submission rate of 89%.
“This represents a decline of 2% when compared with the average timeous submission rate of 91% achieved in the first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year,” Gxoyiya said.
Goxoyiya said it should be noted that payment after the required 30 days constitutes non-compliance.
“Out of 40 national departments, only 17 departments fully complied with the requirement on timeous payments in Quarter 2, which is an improvement from 15 departments in Quarter 1 of the 2023/24 financial year.
“Although the number of invoices and the value cannot be determined with information at the PSC’s disposal, the departments are encouraged to maintain this performance and pay all legitimate invoices from suppliers within 30 days as required by the Public Finance Management Act and its related prescripts,” Gxoyiya said.
Gxoyiya expressed concern at the remaining 23 departments that were unable to comply with the timeous payments of invoices.
“In terms of the provinces, the total number of invoices paid after 30 days by provincial departments amounted to 48 478 to the rand value of R5.9 billion, whereas these provincial departments recoded 90 935 invoices to the value of R9.9 billion in the first quarter.
“Although these invoices were paid, it should be noted that payment after the prescribed period constitute non-compliance.
“Although Government is under financial austerity measures, invoices for services rendered must be paid and Accounting Officers should apply consequence management where necessary to address these challenges,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:54
Wonderboom Performing At The Bands At The Beach Fest Tickets from Quicket With their vibrant and eclectic sound, Wonderboom, a South African music band, has left an indelible mark on the music scene. Formed in 1996 in Pretoria, the band consists of Cito on vocals and guitar, Martin Schofield on guitar, Wade Williams on bass, and …
Wonderboom Performing At The Bands At The Beach Fest Tickets from Quicket With their vibrant and eclectic sound, Wonderboom, a South African music band, has left an indelible mark on the music scene. Formed in 1996 in Pretoria, the band consists of Cito on vocals and guitar, Martin Schofield on guitar, Wade Williams on bass, and …
About 16 local citizen scientists, led by members of Planact, have mapped the temperatures in several parts of Pretoria
Dr Phil Mjwara honoured for promoting science, technology and innovation in SA
The Director-General of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Dr Phil Mjwara, has been honoured for his visionary leadership in promoting science in South Africa and abroad.
Mjwara received the Presidential Award during the annual South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Merit Awards in Cape Town on Thursday.
With 18 years of service as Director-General, Mjwara was lauded for having significantly contributed to the South African National System of Innovation (NSI).
Through these awards, the SAMRC said it acknowledges outstanding contributions to health research and recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional scientific acumen.
The awards recognise those who made innovative strides in addressing public health challenges, potentially influencing policy to enhance the well-being of all South Africans.
Mjwara holds a BSc, MSc and PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand and his academic career includes serving as a Professor of Science and Technology Policy at the University of Pretoria, and physics lectureships at the universities of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, and Fort Hare.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, SAMRC President Professor Glenda Gray said Mjwara had built a strong legacy in the country.
“In the late 1990s, Dr Mjwara led South Africa’s first national Science and Technology Foresight Exercise, which laid the foundation for the NSI,” the statement read.
Mjwara is also described as someone who is highly regarded in various global forums.
The Director-General is a senior member of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) International Basic Sciences Programme and the Square Kilometre Array Observatory Council.
Mjwara has also been lauded for formulating the STI Decadal Plan, which has elevated STI to the presidential level, with the first Presidential Plenary held last year.
This Decadal Plan, according to Gray, focuses on using STI to address societal challenges and highlights the importance of health research in the STI environment in South Africa.
“Dr Mjwara has set the vision for all policy development in the science and technology sector in South Africa. He saw the need to create sustainable programmes, infrastructure and human capacity to ensure that South Africa achieves excellence in critical areas of science and technology," Gray said.
The SAMRC also honoured the DSI’s Director for Health Innovation, Glaudina Loots, with a special award for her support and leadership in health research in the country.
Loots is responsible for the implementation of the health components of the Bio-economy Strategy for South Africa.
She has been instrumental in the creation of the Strategic Health Innovation Partnerships initiative at the SAMRC, which funds and manages innovation projects focused on the development of new drugs, treatments, vaccines, medical devices and prevention strategies.
Gray explained that medical research remains fundamental for transformation, innovation and collaboration in advancing scientific discovery.
“Celebrating medical research excellence not only honours the achievements of researchers but also inspires progress, fosters collaboration, and enhances the overall impact of scientific advancements on global health and well-being,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 14:25
Top NBA Academy Africa Prospects Khaman Maluach and Ulrich Chomche Join BAL (www.BAL.NBA.com) Teams As Part of 2024 BAL Elevate Program; Fans Can Watch All Games Live on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/4a0Kzz0), NBA.com, BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube (www.youtube.com/@theBAL) Channel; Games Will Reach Fans in 214 Countries and Territories in 17 Languages; Tickets on Sale Now at BAL.NBA.com and Ticketmaster.co.za for the Games in Pretoria; Fans Can Save Up to 35% On Group Packages
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) today announced the 47 players from 10 countries (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL) across Africa, Europe and the U.S. who will compete in the inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase from Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 17 at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, South Africa, as well as the league's global broadcast distribution for the 2024 BAL season*.
The fourth BAL season will feature the top 12 club teams (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL) from 12 African countries playing a record 48 games in Pretoria; Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; and Kigali, Rwanda, marking the first BAL games in South Africa and the first time the league will play games in four different countries.
The four teams competing in the Kalahari Conference group phase – home team and three-time BAL participant Cape Town Tigers (South Africa), first-time BAL participant Dynamo Basketball Club (Burundi), first-time BAL participant FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco) and 2022 BAL runner-up Petro de Luanda (Angola) – collectively feature four players with NBA and NBA G League experience, 11 former NCAA Division I players, four NBA Academy Africa prospects, four former Basketball Without Borders (BWB) campers, five players who have participated in the FIBA Basketball World Cup and 13 players with FIBA AfroBasket experience.
Top NBA Academy Africa prospects Khaman Maluach, a native of South Sudan who will play for the City Oilers (Uganda), and Ulrich Chomche, a native of Cameroon who will play for APR (Rwanda), are among the 12 NBA Academy Africa prospects who will compete in the 2024 BAL season as part of the third edition of the BAL Elevate program (https://apo-opa.co/42IkW3v). Maluach and Chomche previously participated in the 2022 and 2023 BAL seasons.
The 2024 BAL season will reach fans in 214 countries and territories in 17 languages through free-to-air and paid TV broadcast partnerships with the African Union of Broadcasting, American Forces Network (AFN), Canal+, NBA TV, Tencent Video, TSN, TV5 Monde, Visionary TV and Voice of America (VOA), and livestreaming on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/4a0Kzz0), NBA.com, BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt) channel.
In the season opener, FUS Rabat Basketball will face Petro de Luanda at 4:00 p.m. CAT. In the second game, the Cape Town Tigers will take on Dynamo Basketball Club at 7:00 p.m. CAT. Tickets for the Kalahari Conference group phase in Pretoria are on sale now at BAL.NBA.com and Ticketmaster.co.za. Single game tickets for the Kalahari Conference group phase start at 75 ZAR. Fans can save up to 35% off single game ticket prices for group packages by emailing BalTickets@thebal.com. Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to BAL Fan Zones at the arena in each market.
The 12 teams have been divided into three conferences of four teams each. Each conference will play a 12-game group phase during which each team will face the other three teams in its conference twice. New this season, the home team in each market will play on every gameday, including on the weekends. The Nile Conference group phase will take place from Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 27 at Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo. The Sahara Conference group phase will take place from Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12 at the Dakar Arena in Dakar. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to BK Arena in Kigali for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from Friday, May 24 – Saturday, June 1.
Linked here (https://apo-opa.co/4bYS1MO) please find select Kalahari Conference group phase player and coach storylines, and here (https://apo-opa.co/4c62yps) please find complete details about the 2024 BAL season's global broadcast distribution. Rosters for the Nile Conference and Sahara Conference group phases will be announced at a later date.
*Rosters are subject to change and will be updated in real-time on the team roster pages on www.BAL.NBA.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Download here:
View Kalahari Conference Group Phase Rosters (https://apo-opa.co/3TnVMnL)
Basketball Africa League Season 4 Hype Video (https://apo-opa.co/3T9WdRj)
Contact:
Edwin Eselem
Basketball Africa League
+221 78 615 42 87
EEselem@theBAL.com
About the BAL:
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that will tip off its fourth season in March 2024. Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the BAL builds on the foundation of club competitions FIBA Africa has organized across the continent and marks the NBA's first collaboration to operate a league outside North America. Fans can follow the BAL (@theBAL) on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IryMxW), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48G8a76), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/49zyG3f), X, and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt) and register their interest in receiving more information at www.BAL.NBA.com.
Call for improvement in efforts to deal with new alien species
With new alien species continuing to arrive in the country every year, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has called for enhanced efforts to prevent the introduction of new invasive species through vigilance at borders and risk analyses.
“Early detection and rapid response systems should be strengthened to identify and eradicate invaders before they become established. We must continue investing in research and innovation, supporting studies that enhance our understanding of invasive species dynamics to improve management strategies,” Creecy said on Friday in Pretoria.
The Minister was addressing the launch of the report on the 3rd National Status of Biological Invasions and their Management in South Africa, which shows that over the last decade, 32 new alien species were either illegally or accidentally introduced, a rate of approximately three introductions per year.
“It is essential to recognise that the impacts of biological invasions extend beyond the realm of biodiversity alone. They have far-reaching consequences on our economy, agriculture, water resources and public health. Invasive species can devastate agricultural lands, leading to reduced crop yields and increased production costs.
“They can also impair water quality, clog waterways, and impact our ability to access clean drinking water. Additionally, some invasive species pose risks to human health by acting as carriers of diseases or causing allergic reactions,” the Minister said.
She said the national status report on biological invasions serves as a clarion call for action and is a reminder of the urgency of the situation and the imperative to act decisively.
“By working together, we can protect our natural heritage, restore damaged ecosystems and secure a sustainable future for South Africa. I urge all stakeholders to embrace the findings of this report.
“Let us unite in our resolve to address the challenges of biological invasions, ensuring that South Africa remains a beacon of biodiversity and a sanctuary for our precious indigenous plants, animals and ecosystems that support sustainable development and human wellbeing,” Creecy said.
South Africa has an innovative regulatory system to address biological invasions, with decisions being more directly informed by the available scientific evidence.
“For example, all legal introductions of new alien species require import permits and are issued only if the risks are demonstrated to be sufficiently low. In addition, the new National Border Management Authority has committed to improving the prevention of illegal and accidental introductions,” the Minister said.
The report shows that invasive species, in particular trees and freshwater fishes, have major negative impacts on people and nature across the country by reducing South Africa’s water resources, degrading pasturelands and exacerbating fires.
“In mountain catchments, we are seeing pine trees using up water, increasing the intensity of wildfires, and crowding out biodiversity. Alien freshwater fishes are invading our water resources, reducing the diversity of our native fishes and other aquatic organisms,” the Minister said.
Between 2020 and 2022, government invested over R1.5 billion to address biological invasions, targeting priority areas such as strategic water source areas, protected areas and biodiversity hotspots.
“These interventions have also created much-needed employment, especially in rural areas. Several notable initiatives by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) raised over R180 million from the private sector to fund the control of invasive freshwater fishes and alien plants in the water catchments around Cape Town. This model could be replicated across other catchments and priority areas,” the Minister said.
According to the report, there are 44 alien species on Marion Island, over half of which are invasive, while there are eight alien species present on Prince Edward Island, all of which are invasive.
“Biological invasions on the Prince Edward Islands are being addressed through effective biosecurity and on-island management. The house mouse is the most harmful alien species on Marion Island. The mice feed on plants, invertebrates, and endangered seabirds.
“They also affect ecosystem processes such as sediment movement rates and nutrient cycling. Bold plans to eradicate the house mouse from Marion Island have been developed and are due to be implemented in 2027.
“The eradication of mice from Marion Island is essential if its unique biodiversity is to be preserved. There is, however, still much work to be done,” the Minister said.
Link to the report: https://www.sanbi.org/resources/documents/. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 12:53
“We paid more money trying to fix that thing than we paid for buying it,” Bheki Cele tells Parliament