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Johannesburg, 6 December 2023 – Proudly African bank, Absa, is pleased to announce that the 2023 Absa RUN YOUR CITY campaign, titled Together, we can do more, Siyabangena has won the Active and Wellness Award at the recent 2023 Sports Industry Awards. The campaign encouraged Absa colleagues, customers and community members to be an active …
Government departments urged to pay suppliers on time
Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says out of 40 national government departments, only 15 have fully complied with the policy on timeous payment of service providers.
Gxoyiya on Tuesday addressed media in Pretoria on the PSC’s Quarterly Bulletin titled: ‘The Pulse of the Public Service’.
According to the PSC, the number of invoices paid after 30 days by the national and provincial departments amounts to 117 158, with the rand value of R11.1 billion. This represents a regression of 12% when compared with the number of invoices paid after 30 days by national and provincial departments during the first quarter of the 2022/23 financial year, which amounted to 104 937 invoices, with the rand value of R8.6 billion.
Gxoyiya encouraged the departments that are compliant to maintain their performance and continue to pay all legitimate invoices from suppliers within 30 days, as required by the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and its related prescripts.
“The rand value of invoices paid after 30 days in the first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year amounted to R1.2 billion, and this indicates a regression of 126% when compared to the rand value of invoices paid after 30 days in the first quarter of the 2022/23 financial year, which amounted to R530 million,” said Gxoyiya.
The most common reasons provided by both the national and provincial departments for the late or non-payment of invoices are interruptions caused by poor internal controls, internal capacity, and budget constraints.
“North West provincial departments reported the second highest invoices paid after 30 days, amounting to 12 988 invoices, with the rand value of R880 million during the same period.
“In contrast, Eastern Cape provincial departments reported the highest number of invoices older than 30 days amounting to 25 789, with the rand value of R2.3 billion at the end of June 2023,” Gxoyiya said.
According to the PSC, the main contributing departments towards late or non-payment of invoices at national level are the Departments of Home Affairs; Correctional Services; Defence; Military Veterans; South African Police Service; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Transport; Water and Sanitation; Public Works and Infrastructure; Health, and Tourism.
Gxoyiya advocated for transparency in dealing with public finances.
“Transparency is subtly intertwined with accountability... Transparency is pivotal to democracy and accountability, as well as upholding the principles of responsiveness and efficiency.
“In many ways, democracy is government by explanation because in an open and democratic society, government should be accountable for its actions and decisions, which should be informed by rational considerations that are explicable to those affected by them,” Gxoyiya said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 12/05/2023 - 13:34
“Writing never stops. This is the starting point. Take the lessons that you have learnt here and demonstrate to the world that not only can we produce our own data, but that we are capable of analysing it,” Afrobarometer surveys director Boniface Dulani told up-and-coming researchers at the closing ceremony of the Afrobarometer (https://www.Afrobarometer.org/) Pretoria summer school on Friday.
The three-week training programme equips African scholars with solid skills in research design, survey methodology, and the use of social statistics. Afrobarometer manages the programme in collaboration with the University of Pretoria's Future Africa, a pan-African research institute pioneering approaches to research and innovation on the continent and beyond.
“One thing that excites me is not only do we have access to the [Afrobarometer] data, but as Africans, we also understand the context from which the data comes,” Dulani added.
In his remarks to the group, Neeraj Mistry, deputy director of Future Africa, said, “In a world of mis- and disinformation, we need solid data and good analysis of it. So we are relying on you to give us the evidence base, to give us real-time analysis from the ground from real people's contributions. That's the kind of evidence that we need in order to make change happen.”
The 19 summer school participants – 50% women – represented 13 countries: Benin, Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Reflecting on the summer school experience, David Asante-Darko from the Ghana Center for Democratic Development commented, "The highlight of my Afrobarometer summer school was my exposure to the diverse ways in which Afrobarometer data can be analysed to speak convincingly to African realities.
“As a member of an African community dedicated to the fight against the decline of democracy, it is assuring to have discovered that I have unfettered access to a wealth of credible and unbiased data,” Asante-Darko further noted.
Another participant, Caroline Nakayiza from Uganda, remarked, “As a data collector, I have picked a lot from the summer school. It has been a great journey – I have explored a new country and made new friends and connections.”
After weeks of intense learning, the participants are producing research papers that will feed into Afrobarometer's publications series, advancing the organisation's goal to “let the people have a say!”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afrobarometer.
For more information, please contact:
Asafika Mpako
Afrobarometer communications coordinator for Southern Africa
Email: ampako@afrobarometer.org
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About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of more than 370,000+ interviews in 42 countries, representing the views of 75% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent's data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International's Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank's Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (https://www.Afrobarometer.org) and may be analysed free of charge using AB's online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.info/3lVrwlT).
About Future Africa at the University of Pretoria:
The University of Pretoria established the Future Africa initiative as a platform to develop leadership in transdisciplinary research in Africa. Future Africa is a hub for African and global research networks to address the challenges that hamper transformation toward a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future in Africa.
White Paper on electric vehicles released
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has released a White Paper that outlines a comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) roadmap for South Africa and the structure of a suite of policy interventions tailored to the automotive industry.
“It is a product of constructive engagement with stakeholders, including within government, industry and labour, to chart a viable and sustainable transition path for the industry,” Patel said on Monday.
At a media briefing in Pretoria, Patel said the primary goal of the White Paper is to set a course to transition the auto industry from primarily producing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to a dual platform that includes EVs in the production and consumption mix, alongside ICE vehicles in South Africa by 2035.
“This vision is aligned with the foundational objectives outlined in the SAAM, a strategic framework implemented from 2021 to shape the nation's automotive industry,” Patel said.
Patel explained that it also aligns with changing demand in export markets and South Africa’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gases.
“The compelling reasons behind this transition are numerous. Foremost is the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Additionally, we recognise the pivotal role the automotive industry plays in South Africa's economy, as a major employer and a driver of economic growth.
“This White Paper presents a comprehensive, coordinated approach to the transition to minimise the perils of an uncoordinated transition. It draws on extensive international and domestic research and consultations, spanning from 2019 to 2023.
“It is grounded in the principle that decarbonisation should not lead to de-industrialisation but rather be leveraged for growth, deepening the automotive value chain, fostering growth of the local industry, and ensuring the transition aligns with economic priorities,” Patel said.
Patel said successful management of the transition is a pro-growth and pro-investment strategy.
“The success of the transition requires all stakeholders to continue to work collaboratively to navigate this challenging transition and transform it into an opportunity for growth, sustainability, and economic vitality,” the Minister said.
Patel said South Africa could see the first electric vehicles as early as by 2026.
Last week, Cabinet approved the White Paper on EVs to ensure that South Africa becomes part of the global shift from internal combustion engines to new technology vehicles.
Addressing the Post Cabinet briefing last Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the policy supports investments in the development and expansion of new and existing manufacturing plants to support the production of electric vehicles in the country.
“South Africa’s automobile industry plays a critical role in economic growth and supports thousands of jobs, and the country is also endowed with mineral resources that position it to become a key and strategic player in EV value chains,” the Minister said.
The White Paper is the culmination of substantial research and engagement over the last number of years and follows the publication of a Green Paper in 2021, extensive industry consultation (assemblers, component makers and organised labour), consideration of public comments, all of which helped to shape the policy actions to be taken.
Patel also highlighted the Green Paper on the advancement of new electric vehicles and battery-electric vehicles in South Africa. The draft Green Paper seeks to develop a framework upon which a comprehensive and long-term automotive industry transformation policy on new EVs can be developed. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 14:45
Class of 2023 urged to celebrate responsibly
As the Class of 2023 nudges closer to finishing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has urged learners to stay safe and act responsibly in their celebratory moments.
The Minister said this when she briefed the media on Sunday in Pretoria.
This week marks the final week of exams with only six NSC papers left to write.
“Now that the Class of 2023 is about to finish writing, we urge them to be safe. This may mark the end of the 12 years that you spent in the basic education sector; however, it is certainly not the end. Many of you are gathering in various places to celebrate the end of exams. As you do so, I urge you to act responsibly,” the Minister said.
Motshekga said the department noted with great concern that learners were hosting and attending “pens down” parties.
“What is clear is that as much as this time is cause for celebrating, hundreds of our youth are overindulging in alcohol, binge drinking, and even finding themselves in trouble with the law.
“You may have turned 18 years of age and therefore reached the legal age to consume alcohol but you must understand that adulthood comes with lifelong responsibilities,” she said.
The Minister said the Gauteng Liquor Board has highlighted the dangers of overindulgence in drinking alcohol. This is in addition to the call to retailers to refrain from selling alcohol to underage children.
She said the department hopes to see more of these efforts across the country.
“May we always remember the tragedy of Enyobeni Tavern in the Eastern Cape, and many other such events, where the lives of young people were cut short, in incidents that could have easily been avoided.
“We urge parents, to know where your children are, with whom they are, and what they are doing. We need them back in 2024, as they continue with their education journey,” she said.
Rewrites
There will be rewriting opportunities for candidates who experienced technical challenges during the writing of Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 in five provincial education departments and Information Technology Paper 1 in one provincial education department and those who could not complete due to load shedding.
This also includes Tourism Practical Assessment Task (PAT): 19 candidates in the Northern Cape and 32 candidates in the North West.
The Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 and Information Technology Paper 1 will be written in the morning of 6 December 2023.
Tourism Practical Assessment Task (PAT) Paper 1 will be written in the afternoon on 6 December 2023
Tourism Practical Assessment Task (PAT) Paper 2 will be written in the morning of 7 December 2023.
The Minister announced the matric results announcement will take place on 18 January and the provincial release will take place on 19 January.
The department, she said, is confident that the all-important marking process, capture of results, standardisation, resulting and release of results will proceed according to plan. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 13:43
Pullman Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment of Stefan Lourens as General Manager at Pullman Cape Town, the first property in South Africa under the Pullman brand from Accor. Lourens brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience to the Pullman Cape Town team with a proven track record across local and international brands …
Matric exams enter final week
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga says the department has done all it can to ensure that the final matric examinations for this year go smoothly.
This as the matriculants enter the final week of exams with only six National Senior Certificate (NSC) papers left to write.
The Minister was briefing the media in Pretoria on Sunday.
“At all times we aim to conduct our exams error free and uphold the integrity of our certificate. We did all we could possibly do to support the children.
“We provided them with materials to support them and we know provinces and schools went out of their way to have matric camps and all the necessary support that our learners needed,” she said.
The NSC examinations commenced on Monday, 30 October 2023 with government having said that more than 717 377 full time candidates and 181 143 part-time candidates in the public education system were registered to write the final examinations across 6 898 centres nationwide.
“We can confirm that indeed these exams went well. By Friday the 1st of December, we were on day 25 and we are only left with three days to finish the exams. Up to date, 225 papers have been written. We are only left with six papers before we finish the exams.
“We are very grateful to all stakeholders who have played a role in making sure that we run these exams as well as we did.”
The Minister warned the matriculants to “stay safe” as they celebrate the end of exams.
“There are lots of…disturbing incidents that we see on social media. We really appeal to our kids to avoid. We have noted with concern learners hosting and attending what they call ‘pens down’ parties all over the show.
“What is clear is that as much as it really is the time for celebrating, hundreds of our children are overindulging in alcohol, binge drinking and even finding themselves [against] the law. At this stage we want to urge parents, communities and care givers to support their kids to stay safe and grow,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 12/03/2023 - 13:29
Matric final exams enter final week
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga says the department has done all it can to ensure that the final matric examinations for this year go smoothly.
This as the matriculants enter the final week of exams with only six National Senior Certificate (NSC) papers left to write.
The Minister was briefing the media in Pretoria on Sunday.
“At all times we aim to conduct our exams error free and uphold the integrity of our certificate. We did all we could possibly do to support the children.
“We provided them with materials to support them and we know provinces and schools went out of their way to have matric camps and all the necessary support that our learners needed,” she said.
The NSC examinations commenced on Monday, 30 October 2023 with government having said that more than 717 377 full time candidates and 181 143 part-time candidates in the public education system were registered to write the final examinations across 6 898 centres nationwide.
“We can confirm that indeed these exams went well. By Friday the 1st of December, we were on day 25 and we are only left with three days to finish the exams. Up to date, 225 papers have been written. We are only left with six papers before we finish the exams.
“We are very grateful to all stakeholders who have played a role in making sure that we run these exams as well as we did.”
The Minister warned the matriculants to “stay safe” as they celebrate the end of exams.
“There are lots of…disturbing incidents that we see on social media. We really appeal to our kids to avoid. We have noted with concern learners hosting and attending what they call ‘pens down’ parties all over the show.
“What is clear is that as much as it really is the time for celebrating, hundreds of our children are overindulging in alcohol, binge drinking and even finding themselves [against] the law. At this stage we want to urge parents, communities and care givers to support their kids to stay safe and grow,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 12/03/2023 - 13:29
Border Management Authority ramps up festive season operations
The Border Management Authority (BMA) says it is implementing a comprehensive plan including longer border post operating times and more boots on the ground for its festive season operations.
This according to the BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato who was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Sunday.
He said the BMA expects at least six million people to move through South Africa’s borders during the festive season.
Masiapato said the BMA has engaged with South Africa’s six immediate neighbouring countries on the “synchronisation of processes and other work modalities” including working hours.
“While some of our busiest ports already operate on a 24-hour basis, the Minister of Home Affairs Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has already approved our request to extend the operating hours on other identified critical ports on certain dates that we agreed with our immediate neighbouring countries,” he said.
The following working hours will now be operational at ports of entry:
“In addition, we will be deploying about 380 additional personnel at the selected busiest ports of entry to assist with the delivery of services and provision of technical support during this period. There are also a number of senior members from the Border Technical Committee (BTC) who have been allocated individual ports for their visitation during the identified critical dates to provide support to the operational teams on the ground,” he said.
Load shedding
Masiapato said additional infrastructure has also been sought including generators to mitigate the effects of load shedding on operations.
“After engagement with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), they will be providing additional infrastructure such as temporary lighting, ablution facilities, special temporary barricades, Jojo tankers for the provision of water to the travellers at the identified critical land ports.
“In addition, generators with the appropriate un-interrupted power system are well serviced ready to provide required energy during instances of load shedding. We have also deployed additional IT support teams to various ports to immediately address any kind of system glitches experienced on the ground,” Masiapato said.
Illegal activities
He emphasised that the BMA will also be keeping a close eye on any illegal activity.
“We would also be focusing on curbing illegal movement of persons and goods with specific focus on cross-border organised criminal elements and other general crimes perpetrated in the ports of entry and border law enforcement area.
“We have put all measures in place to detect and confiscate narcotics, contraband, illicit goods, and even stolen vehicles. We therefore want to urge all travellers to desist from committing any act of criminality as they will be detected, arrested, declared undesirable, and then deported.
“On the corridors leading to our land ports of entry, we would like to urge all drivers to desist from disregarding existing traffic laws, including instructions from the traffic officers on the ground as that has the potential to cause traffic jams which poses serious challenges of traffic flow towards our ports entry. Drivers are encouraged to accordingly follow the que and in no time, they would be assisted,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 12/03/2023 - 12:21
Dear Editor In a landmark decision, the Pretoria High Court has mandated the Minister of Electricity to take “all reasonable steps” to guarantee uninterrupted electricity for public hospitals, clinics, schools, and police stations by January 31. The DA, recognising the escalating electricity crisis, took decisive action in January by filing an application with the High …
SA commends Cuba’s support in water sector
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has commended the Cuban government for its continued solidarity with the people of South Africa, particularly in the field of water and sanitation.
“The unwavering support that we receive from the Cuban government has been amazing and we will forever be grateful for their commitment in ensuring that South Africa is developed into a better state and achieve a great life for its people,” Mahlobo said.
He was speaking during the 7th South Africa-Cuba High Level Panel meeting with Cuba’s Institute of National Hydraulic Resources first Vice President, Bladimir Matos Moya, and a contingent of Cuban engineers deployed to South Africa as part of a long-standing cooperation between the two states.
During the meeting held in Pretoria this week, South Africa and Cuba reviewed the existing cooperation agreement between the two States in the areas of geo-hydrology and engineering services.
The two also committed to continue working together and strengthening the existing relations.
“The expertise from Cuban engineers has assisted our country and our department a great deal in improving our technical capacity to manage our water infrastructure,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister commended the experienced engineers from Cuba for imparting their vast knowledge into up-and-coming engineers at the department.
The department has a Learning Academy which is tasked with unearthing young engineers to bridge the skills gap in the water sector.
“We offer bursaries and then absorb young engineers upon completion of their studies, and we capacitate to acquire the required skills in many ways. This is where the expertise of Cuban engineers come in, to equip our newly graduated engineers to become better,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister reiterated that water security is dependent on how the country manages its infrastructure and water resources, saying this can be achieved through cooperation with like-minded and developed countries.
The current cooperation agreement between the two States, which was entered into in 2020, is set to lapse in 2025 and upon which, a new agreement is expected to be entered into until 2030.
Mahlobo said the 25 engineers assisting South Africa have been involved in electrical and mechanical operations and maintenance of pump stations and systems, dams, reservoirs associated with the electricity generation, mining industries and food production.
“They have also been assisting with hydraulic and civil engineering work in regional bulk infrastructure project, control of expenses associated with infrastructure development in municipalities, drought relief programs, [including] COVID-19 projects and approval of water use licence applications. They have also involved in the development of Emergency Preparedness Plans for all dams according to the established regulations,” Mahlobo said.
The two States have agreed to begin the process of reviewing the cooperation going forward and to expand to other areas of cooperation, which includes infrastructure investment and planning, development of green energy including the development of hydropower, climate change and its impact on infrastructure and national disaster management.
The projects that the Cuban engineers have been involved in include, among others:
• Conditional assessment of Standerton water supply conduction, treatment, and disposal to the environment of the wastewater, Lekwa Local Municipality, Gert Sibande District Municipality;
• Technical audit of the hydraulic system of the Vaal basin in Johannesburg;
• Technical support and monitoring of the execution of RBIP projects;
• Upgrade of Maviljan Waste Water Treatment Works, Bushbuckridge;
• Upgrade of Eerstehoek Water Supply phases 1 and 2 Albert Luthuli Local Municipality;
• Upgrade of Bulk pipeline for Empuluzi Methula Water Scheme phase 5, 6, 7 Albert Luthuli Local Municipality; and
• Regional Bulk Water Supply Scheme for Breyten (Cluster 2 phases 1 2 Msukaligwa Local Municipality. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 12/01/2023 - 12:24
Lesotho, Zimbabwe exemption permits extended
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has announced that he has issued directives to extend the validity of the exemption permits in respect of Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals to 31 December 2024.
“I call upon all the affected Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals to make use of the window of opportunity to apply for new exemption permits through VFS Global,” Motsoaledi said.
Addressing media in Pretoria on Friday, Motsoaledi said both Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals will be entitled to apply for new exemption permits.
He said a holder of the exemption permit will be entitled to work, seek employment and conduct business in South Africa.
“A holder of the exemption permit, due to expire on 31 December 2023 or such extended period of validity, will be entitled to apply for a new exemption permit. A holder of the exemption permit will be entitled to sojourn in the Republic of South Africa during the validity of the exemption permit,” Motsoaledi said.
Motsoaledi explained that new exemption permits to be issued will expire on 29 November 2025 and that a holder of the exemption permit will not be entitled to apply for permanent residence in terms of sections 25, 26 and 27 of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 or any other provisions in any other law, irrespective of the period of stay in South Africa.
“A holder of the exemption permit will be allowed freedom of movement between Lesotho and South Africa or any other country. A holder of the exemption permit cannot change his or her status in the Republic of South Africa, as contemplated in section 10 (6) of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, during the validity of the permit issued.
“When a holder of the exemption due to expire on 31 December 2023 or such extended period applies for a new exemption permit, he or she must disclose and/or register all the minor children born and staying in South Africa,” Motsoaledi said.
Zimbabwe permit
The Minister said affected Zimbabwean nationals will be entitled to apply for new exemption permits under the following terms and conditions:
“A holder of the exemption permit will be entitled to work, seek employment and conduct business in South Africa.
“A holder of the exemption permit due to expire on 31 December 2023 or June 2024 and such extended period of validity will be entitled to apply for a new exemption permit.
“A holder of the exemption permit will be entitled to sojourn in the Republic of South Africa during the validity of the exemption permit and that the exemption permits to be issued will expire on 29 November 2025.
“A holder of the exemption permit will not be entitled to apply for permanent residence in terms of sections 25, 26 and 27 of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 or any other provisions in any other law, irrespective of the period of stay in the Republic of South Africa,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi explained that a holder of the exemption permit cannot change his or her status in the Republic of South Africa, as contemplated in section 10 (6) of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 during the validity of the permit issued.
“When a holder of the exemption due to expire on 31 December 2023 or 28 June 2024 or such extended period applies for a new exemption permit, he or she must disclose and/or register all the minor children born and staying in the Republic of South Africa.
Motsoaledi has granted exemptions to approximately 54 653 Lesotho nationals for a period of two years and approximately 178 000 Zimbabwean nationals.
Motsoaledi said a dedicated team will be set up to deal with the applications for new exemption permits.
“VFS Global has also been instructed to fast-track the application process for new exemption permits,” the Minister said.
The first Zimbabwean special dispensation started in 2009 and was called the Dispensation for Zimbabwe Permit. It provided for the documentation of qualifying Zimbabweans for a five-year period. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 12/01/2023 - 14:06
National Strategic Plan on GBVF must be prioritised - Cabinet
Cabinet has reaffirmed the need to prioritise the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) of dealing with the second pandemic of gender-based violence and femicide.
Briefing the media on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Cabinet further noted progress that has been made on interventions of the NSP that are driven through the following six pillars:
“Government will continue with consultations with various sectors to mobilise a whole of society approach to dealing with GBVF [gender-based violence and femicide], including localising the NSP using the District Development Model (DDM) approach for implementation at a ward level,” the Minister said.
In this regard, Cabinet applauded the successful co-hosting of the 3rd African Union (AU) Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Leadership to End Violence Against Women and Girls with the Republic of Comoros in Pretoria from 27 to 28 November 2023.
The Men’s Conference provided an opportunity to consolidate the bold efforts that the Heads of State and Government, and other sectors have taken towards ending violence against women and girls on the continent.
These efforts include accountability for the implementation of the Kinshasa Declaration and the decisions made at the 2023 February Heads of State and Government Conference on negotiating an AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
MSC investment
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the opening of the Nelson Mandela cruise terminal by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in a public-private partnership (PPP) contract with Transnet.
MSC invested approximately R296.7 million in the construction of the new terminal, with an additional R30 million earmarked for expansion of the terminal.
Cabinet echoed the sentiments of President Ramaphosa when he said at the opening of the terminal last week: “The multi-user terminal has made Durban an even more desirable destination for cruise ships from all over the world”. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 12/01/2023 - 09:21
Philippine culture was on full display during the event organized by the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria to mark the 30 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Africa. As a fitting tribute to the countries' diplomatic milestone, Philippine dance troupe KALOOB Philippine Music and Dance Ministry performed on 26 November 2023 at the University of Pretoria's Aula Theatre.
The event was attended by over 700 guests from the government, diplomatic corps, organized business, academic community and other sectors of South African society, as well as members of the Filipino community.
In her welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja highlighted the similarities between Filipino and South African cultures despite the two countries' geographical distance. She said that the Philippines, just like South Africa, is a country which is proud of and fully embraces its multicultural heritage. Filipinos also share common values with their African kin such as faith and spirituality, family centeredness, sense of community, as well as fostering harmonious interpersonal relationships.
The Ambassador likewise mentioned the significant developments in the bilateral ties between the Philippines and South Africa, most notably the successful convening of the countries' 5th Bilateral Consultative Forum held on 23 February 2023 in Pretoria, which allowed Filipino and South African policymakers to discuss issues of mutual interest.
As guest of honor, Chief Director for Central, South and Southeast Asia Sindiswa Mququ of the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation agreed with the Ambassador that both countries have rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects their unique identity and history. Commending the Embassy for its continuous efforts to promote the cultural relations between the two countries, she emphatically stated that it is through cultural exchange and dialogue that both sides can learn from each other, appreciate their similarities and differences, and foster mutual understanding and respect.
Marking their debut in South Africa, KALOOB provided the South African public with a glimpse of the cultural diversity of the Philippines by performing selected traditional dances and music of the Cordillera region, the indigenous communities in Mindanao, and the Muslim groups in southern Philippines. The group also performed Hispanic dances which were introduced to the country during the Spanish occupation and subsequently indigenized by the Filipino people. KALOOB capped their great performance with Philippine folk dances which are deeply rooted in pre-colonial and Spanish colonial periods but have survived and evolved through time.
The dance troupe captivated the guests with its repertoire of Filipino dances, which included Chalijok (harvest-time dance of the Kalinga people), Sabay (courtship dance of the Subanen people), Kapamalong-Malong (dance showing the various ways to wear and use the malong, a tubular cloth worn by the Maranao people), Singkil (the Maranao people's retelling of the Darangen epic), Jota Moncadeña (a distinctly Hispanized dance in Tarlac province using bamboo hand clickers called kalaste) and the very popular Tinikling. Live music from traditional Philippine percussion and stringed instruments, as well as the colorful and vibrant traditional costumes further enriched KPMDM's performance.
KALOOB received a standing ovation from an enthusiastic audience. As a symbol of the enduring friendship between the Philippines and South Africa, some South African youth who watched the performance presented flowers to the performers.
Founded by Mr. Eduardo Lapiz, KALOOB initially promoted Filipino indigenous culture for use in contemporary Christian evangelization and worship. The group has since branched out to arranging performances for a general audience with the objective of spreading profound appreciation for Philippine heritage. With its continuing extensive cultural research, documentation, preservation and promotion of Philippine indigenous music, dance and rituals, the group has been recognized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines as one of the major dance groups in the country.
KALOOB's performance in South Africa was made possible through the generous support of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs' Office of Public and Cultural Diplomacy.The commemorative event is part of the Embassy's vigorous efforts to harness the transformative power of cultural diplomacy in bridging cultural gaps and facilitating greater people-to-people understanding between the Philippines and South Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines.
SAPS proud of its men and women in blue
As the country observes the 25th anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (25 November to 10 December), the South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on profiling a series of untold stories of its men and women in blue.
This is to celebrate the men and women who go beyond the call of duty to protect women, children and other vulnerable groups.
Today, the spotlight is on Captain Karin Botha, a forensic social worker attached to the Germiston Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations (FCS) unit.
Forensic Social Work is a specialised field of Social Work practice within the FCS environment, which is characterised by the social worker's primary function of providing expert testimony in courts of law.
Moreover, a forensic social worker’s core function is to conduct forensic interviews in the investigation of child abuse cases using age appropriate techniques in order to obtain accurate information from child victims to assist courts to make just and fair decisions.
Botha holds a degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Forensic Practice.
Some of her career highlights include when the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria sentenced a 42-year-old father to four life terms and an additional 73 years direct imprisonment on multiple counts of rape, statutory rape, sexual grooming, incest, possession of child pornography and sexual abuse, earlier this year.
The father pleaded guilty to all the charges levelled against him for raping and sexually abusing five child victims - two of whom are his biological daughters, between 2019 and 2020. The victims were aged between nine and 13 around the time of the abuse.
Botha was assigned to obtain these victims' statements and compiled their competency assessment reports, which assisted the court to hand down an appropriate sentence.
She was also assigned to compile a victim impact report and testified in court as an expert witness in the sentencing of Nicholas Ninow, dubbed the ‘Silverton Dros rapist’.
The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria sentenced Ninow to life in prison and an additional 10 years imprisonment in 2019 on charges of rape, possession of drugs and defeating the ends of justice.
Ninow attacked and raped a 7-year-old girl in the restroom of the DROS restaurant in Silverton, Pretoria, in September 2018.
In 2020, Botha was awarded with a Certificate of Commendation by the Minister of Police for the instrumental role she played in the sentencing of a paedophile to life in prison and an additional 100 years imprisonment for multiple counts of possession, manufacturing and distribution of child pornography, as well as child abuse.
Botha said she assesses over 100 sexually abused child victims a year, who fondly refer to her as ‘tannie Karin'. Botha feels humbled by her profession that allows her to make a difference in abused children’s lives.
“Parents, caregivers, teachers or any other adult should never doubt or dismiss a child when they are disclosing the possibility of sexual abuse. Contact your nearest police station, open a case and act in the best interest of our children,” Botha said.
Captain Botha is the personification of ‘real heroes do not wear capes’, as she continues to be a voice for ‘voiceless’ child victims. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 09:29
Minimum norms and standards set ten years ago have not been met, says Equal Education
The role of men important in ending GBVF – President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the role of men as an increasingly influential force in making the Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls a tangible achievement throughout Africa.
The President was delivering remarks at the 3rd African Union Men's Conference on Positive Masculinity, held in Pretoria on Tuesday.
The conference is taking place in the week that the annual campaign of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence commences across the globe.
“Let us build on the gains of the first two conferences to birth a new Africa that affirms the human dignity, equality and worth of every African woman and girl. Let us leave no man and boy behind in this journey.
“Together, as an expanding circle of champions, we will make the Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls a reality in our beloved Africa,” the President said.
The President said what makes this conference exceptional is that the main focus is on the role of men and boys in bringing about a world free of gender-based violence.
“We are here because we know that men and boys must be at the forefront of change. We are here because we know there is an alternative to a society, a continent and a world where women are oppressed, discriminated against and their rights suppressed.
“We seek a world in which every African man, woman and child can live in true freedom and equality with their rights respected, upheld and advanced. We know that such a world is within our reach if we focus on the prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls,” he said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that we cannot realise a society free of gender-based violence without critically interrogating the assumptions around patriarchy, male chauvinism and sexism.
It is these assumptions, he said, that lead young men and boys to believe that women are property; that they are worth less than a man, and that they are deserving of ill-treatment.
“This is a conversation that men need to have. Men are in the main the perpetrators of violence against women and girls. At the same time, it is men who have the power to bring about the change we so sorely need.
“The unity, self-reliance, self-determination, freedom, progress and prosperity we collectively strive towards under the AU’s Agenda 2063 are being undermined by gender-based violence,” he said.
The President said such violence is eroding our gains, stunting our continent’s development and leaving more than half of Africa’s population in a state of anxiety and fear.
He said this conference is about promoting positive masculinity as well as challenging traditional stereotypes with being a man.
He said it involves redefining the norms and expectations placed on men.
The President highlighted that positive masculinity encourages men to embrace qualities such as empathy, vulnerability, emotional intelligence and respect for diversity.
Earlier this year, the President convened the Presidential Young Men and Boys’ Indaba in Soweto in Johannesburg.
He had the opportunity to talk with a group of young men who see themselves as changemakers in the fight against gender-based violence.
“These young men face a lot of pressures that affect their attitudes to women and girls. These include the lack of positive male role models, absentee fathers, vulnerability to recruitment by criminals, pressure to drop out of school and earn a living, and pressure to become sexually active before they are ready to.
“These young men, who exhibit or seek to learn positive masculinity, are tired of being seen as the problem, when they want to be part of the solution.
“This is why it is so important that a conference such as this brings us together to look at how we can create more spaces for young men and boys to engage among their peers without fear of judgment,” he said.
The President highlighted that South Africa has a number of initiatives, programmes and dialogues that are elevating the importance of positive masculinity as part of the fight against gender-based violence.
These programmes are run among athletes and artists, workers and students. They are often implemented in partnership with business, unions and other social partners.
“What these programmes show is that while men are the main perpetrators of violence against women and children, men can also be at the forefront of bringing about a new society that respects the equal rights of women and girls. This has been recognised across the African continent.
“This conference is now in its third year. The AU Circle of Champions has been established, and work is underway towards an African Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” the President said.
He told delegates that this conference is an opportunity to consolidate political commitment, accelerate collective efforts and define men’s contribution to ending violence against women and girls.
As South Africa, working with fellow leaders on the continent, the President stressed the importance of an all-of-society approach that brings together business, labour, government and civil society to promote positive masculinity.
He said this enables us to develop a common vision and roadmap, and build structures throughout society.
The President further emphasised that there is a need to step up the prevention agenda.
He said the Circle of Champions must continue to inspire high-level leadership in ending violence against women and girls.
He called for the renewed support for the AU Commission in ensuring the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index for the realisation of women’s rights is popularised and implemented.
“As we move ahead in negotiating an African Convention on Ending Violence against Women and Girls, we must ensure there is accountability through monitoring and evaluating progress in meeting the commitments of the Kinshasa Declaration.
“Lastly, we have to address structural inequality by broadening women’s access to resources, jobs and opportunities, all the while introducing laws, policies and programmes that advance women’s economic empowerment,” he said.
The President said that he has great expectations of this conference.
“We must be creative, innovative and resolute when it comes to the design and implementation of dialogue, safe spaces and other initiatives that enable men and boys to become more involved in this effort.
“Let us learn from each other and share best practice. Let us understand how what works in one context could be adapted to work in another. Let us look at how we can fund this work in an economically constrained environment.
“There is one thing on which we agree: positive masculinity can and must be harnessed as a powerful force for good,” he said.
The President concluded that ending violence against women and girls everywhere is a collective responsibility as society, but when it comes to the participation of men, the onus is even greater.
“We owe it to the women and girls of our continent to be better men, better fathers, better caregivers, better partners and better sons,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 14:42
December delights: Digging up some of South Africa best hidden gems. As the festive fiesta that is December approaches, South Africans and tourists across the country will be wondering what cool places will be worth a visit. For those looking for something more interesting than the usual hotspots, South Africa is filled with hidden gems …
Government announces new awards for arts, culture sector
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has announced that government will be hosting an all-encompassing awards ceremony to recognise those who exhibit outstanding artistic and technical achievement in the arts and culture sector.
“The creativity and imagination of the South African designers, artists, producers, writers, and performers are continuing to shine the light on the global stage and driving the growth of our creative economy,” Kodwa said on Tuesday in Pretoria.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture intends to confer South African Creative Arts Awards (SACA) annually in appreciation of the outstanding contributions to the creative sector.
“This is another way in which government is developing a participatory cultural platform by supporting artists and arts and culture initiatives, as essential elements to stimulate the growth of the country’s creative economy.
“These are creatives from across cultural domains that push the boundaries of their creative ability and show devotion to excellence with uncompromising quality, ground-breaking creativity and relentless innovation that defines those that are outstanding from the best.
“The South African Creative Arts Awards are for creatives from across cultural domains who push boundaries of their creative ability and show devotion to excellence,” the Minister said.
The launch date for the SACA will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, South Africa will be hosting the 2024 International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Cricket World Cup from 20 January to 11 February 2024.
The event was initially scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka, however, the ICC Board decided to move this tournament from Sri Lanka and awarded it to South Africa.
“The move was taken as a consequence of the ICC provisionally suspending Sri Lanka Cricket due to extensive government interference in the board's administration. Sixteen countries are expected to participate. No government funding is required. The International Cricket Council and Cricket South Africa will provide funding for the tournament,” Kodwa said.
The event will take place at the following venues:
2027 Netball World Cup
With preparations for South Africa’s participation in the 2027 Netball World Cup underway, the Minister also announced the appointment of an Independent Advisory Panel on Netball Professionalisation, which will ensure the development, sustainability, and competitiveness of netball.
The Independent Advisory Panel has been appointed with the objective of developing a blueprint for the development of Netball in the country.
The panel will be expected to review netball’s strategy and increase Mass Participation to ensure Netball becomes a sport of first choice in communities.
Furthermore, the panel will ensure the national league as a commercial product and that it generates revenue for the system that increases the broadcast value and aids professionalization.
It is also responsible for achieving excellence in the international rankings at major international competitions as well as dealing with matters pertaining to governance and finance.
The following are members of the Independent Advisory Panel on Netball:
Board of Boxing SA
The current term of the Board of Boxing South Africa expires on 11 December 2023.
The Minister thanked the outgoing board members for the work that they have done during the period.
He also announced the appointment of the following new members of the Board of Boxing SA with effect from 12 December 2023 until 11 December 2026:
The World Anti-Doping Authority (WADA) has once again awarded South Africa with the hosting of the its Africa Regional office. This office is currently hosted in Cape Town and will continue to be based in Cape Town.
“In April 2023, WADA published a call for Expressions of Interest to host its Africa Office. Three countries, namely Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa, formally expressed interest and submitted a candidate file. Evaluation visits took place in these three countries at the beginning of October 2023,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 13:04
Three years after the landmark Concourt ruling, very little has changed with their access to compensation
Collaboration is key to moving SA towards a water secure future
Collaboration is critical in moving South Africa towards a more water secure future that in all essence, is the pursuit towards the fundamental preservation of life.
This was the sentiments echoed by leading scientists who attended the Climate Change and Water Sector Consultation workshop, held in Pretoria, on Friday.
The Department of Water and Sanitation, in collaboration with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) assembled captains of industry, leading minds and various stakeholders in a hybrid Climate Change and Water Sector Consultation workshop.
The session was aimed at fostering meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts towards sustainable development and climate security in the water sector.
Inputs solicited from the consultation will be incorporated into the revised draft Climate Change Strategy, which will be followed by intense consultation with various stakeholders across the country to solicit more inputs to pave the way for a development of a strategy that will ensure a climate resilient South Africa.
Spearheaded by Specialist Scientist – Directorate Climate Change Analysis at the Department of Water and Sanitation, Dr Gabriel Lekalakala, the consultation delved into two key areas, including water in National Determined Contributions (NDC) to place water at the heart of development pathways, and drafting the Climate Change Status Quo and National Response Strategy.
At the workshop, speakers echoed each other’s sentiments that the drive for water security calls for a collaborative response from government, civil society organisations, experts, and the private sector.
The speakers agreed that a shared global challenge and combined efforts are essential to ensure sustainable water management, improve access, and innovate resilient solutions.
According to the scientists, this tripartite alliance can drive impactful policies, fund crucial initiatives, and implement effective strategies to secure the world's water future.
Draft National Climate Change Response Strategy
Lekalakala said the water and sanitation sector is faced with a wide range of challenges that are further exacerbated by climate change and has severe impact on water security.
He said the development of response plans such as the draft National Climate Change Response Strategy for water and sanitation sector, together with collaborative and coordinated responses from the sector, can contribute towards reducing the potential impacts.
“The strategy is a blueprint for the sector to use in response to climate change related impacts and requires all hands on deck. Hence, the consultation is to afford the sector players to contribute towards its robustness and all take ownership of it.
“There will be more consultation processes making use of all available platforms in the coming weeks. Its implementation process will involve awareness drives of the strategy to wider uptake. We encourage all stakeholder to take part in all these processes,” Lekalakala said.
Inclusion
Director of Water, Growth and Inclusion at IWMI, Dr Inga Jacobs-Mata, who led the discussions on Climate Change Response Strategy for water and sanitation sector, as well as developing the NDC Capacity Scorecard, emphasised that achieving water inclusion is not just a necessity, but an “imperative that requires all of us.”
“This collaboration is vital to address water scarcity, improve water quality, and ensure equitable access. The United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation, underscore the urgency of this mission not just in South Africa, but globally.
“By prioritising water inclusion, we not only contribute to SDG 6 but also lay the foundation for achieving interconnected goals such as eradicating poverty, ensuring good health and well-being, and fostering sustainable communities. The journey to water security is inseparable from the broader pursuit of a sustainable and equitable future for all,” Dr Jacobs-Mata said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 09:38
Men and boys can break the cycle of violence – President Ramaphosa
As the country marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, President Cyril Ramaphosa believes that men and boys can break the cycle of violence.
In his weekly newsletter to the nation, the President said the country marks the start of this campaign in the shadow of a terrible crime.
The President recalled that earlier this month images were circulated on social media of a young male student stabbing his partner, also a student, on the campus of the Peninsula University of Technology.
“The fact that the attack happened in broad daylight and in full view of the public, shows that some perpetrators of gender-based violence seemingly do not even care if there are witnesses to their crimes, nor do they fear apprehension.
“I commend the students who tried to intervene even as they were threatened, as well as those who stepped in as the alleged perpetrator was being attacked by a crowd. It is significant that other male students attempted to ward off the attacker of the young female student,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said that one of the reasons gender-based violence continues is that there is a culture of ambivalence among men who see crimes against women and children as a ‘private matter’ or a ‘family matter’.
He added that in most cases of gender-based violence, including domestic abuse and sexual violence, the attacker is known to the victim.
3rd Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity
The President said it is fitting that the African Union (AU) will convene the 3rd Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Pretoria this week, which will call on men to reject toxic displays of masculinity.
South Africa is co-hosting the conference with the AU Chair and President of the Comoros, Azali Assoumani. The inaugural conference was held in Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2021 and the second one was held in Dakar, Senegal, in 2022.
“For the AU, as it is for our own country, ending gender-based violence is a priority. Discussions are currently underway on the content of an African Convention to End Violence Against Women and Girls, executing a decision of the African Union Summit earlier this year.
“Once adopted, the convention will be the first continental legal instrument for the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls,” he said.
South Africa is a part of the AU Circle of Champions which is an association of African Heads of State who have committed to implementing programmes at national and continental levels that promote positive masculinity and encourages more men and boys to be part of the fight against gender-based violence.
“We have long maintained that interventions aimed at eradicating gender-based violence in our society must focus on prevention.
“If we are to raise a nation of men who are positive role models, who take care of their families, who exhibit positive masculinity and who would not countenance hurting a woman or a girl, we must work with young men,” he said.
South Africa adopted a national strategy to combat gender-based violence. One of the pillars of the National Strategic Plan to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide deals with prevention.
Government, he said, has been engaging with civil society, academia and researchers, traditional leaders, youth organisations, the faith community and the private sector on the issue of prevention.
He further highlighted that a number of initiatives are underway across a range of sectors that are providing space for young and older men to discuss notions of masculinity.
“Men are called on to critically consider their own prejudices, preconceptions and chauvinisms that abet gender-based violence,” he said.
A number of government departments have interventions in place that are focused on promoting positive masculinity through dialogues, workshops, awareness-raising campaigns, psychosocial support and behavioural change programmes.
In August this year, the President was part of the Presidential Young Men and Boys’ Indaba in Soweto where he had the opportunity to talk with a group of young men as part of the ‘What about the Boys’ initiative.
The aim of this programme is to get young men to open up in a safe space about their own experiences with masculinity and how this impacts their own attitudes to gender-based violence.
“Speaking to them, I acknowledged that young men in South Africa today face a lot of pressures that affect their attitudes to women and girls. These include the lack of positive male role models, absentee fathers, vulnerability to recruitment by criminals, pressure to drop out of school and earn a living, and pressure to become sexually active before they are ready to,” he said.
The President said the AU Men’s Conference aims to advocate for more initiatives and dialogues where young men and boys can talk about these issues among their peers.
“We need to inculcate a mindset that sees young men as part of the solution, and not just the problem. While men are the main perpetrators of violence against women and children, men must also be at the forefront of bringing about a new society that respects the equal rights of women and girls, where gender-based violence has no place,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa said he is confident that the conference will raise the profile of prevention efforts in South Africa and in Africa, and that its outcomes will galvanise men and boys to play a greater role in breaking the cycle of violence. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 09:40
Government activities for the week 27 November – 01 December 2023
On Monday, 27 November, the Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko will officially open the Alexandra township’s first x-ray centre at 89 Watt Ave, Wynberg, Johannesburg, from 10:00.
From Monday, 27 November, to Tuesday, 28 November, South Africa hosts the 3rd African Union Men’s Conference on positive masculinity in leadership to end violence against women and girls in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 28 November, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Makhotso Sotyu will launch the Cleaning and Greening In-House District Model Programme in Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality in Harrismith, in the Free State.
On Friday, 01 December, South Africans will commemorate World AIDS Day globally.
Janine
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 11:19
Office of Tax Ombud ready to assist with complaints against SARS
While the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is committed to those seeking assistance with their tax complaints against the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Tax Ombud Yanga Mputa has reminded citizens that the entity is not in the business of helping taxpayers and businesses dodge their tax responsibilities.
Addressing the celebration of 10 years of the existence of the Tax Ombud, Mputa reiterated that the OTO champions taxpayers' rights and tax compliance.
“The office provides taxpayers and tax practitioners with a simple and impartial channel to seek a resolution for a service, procedural or administrative dispute they might have already unsuccessfully tried to resolve through SARS's complaints management channels.
“We play a unique taxpayer complaints resolution role and align with the Public Protector... The Public Protector exists to ensure administrative justice by being a check on the exercise by the government and its agencies of their authority, and on the other hand, the Tax Ombud exists to ensure administrative justice by being a check on the exercise of authority by SARS,” she said on Friday in Pretoria.
Mputa said the OTO is celebrating a decade of making a difference in the lives of taxpayers and a beacon of hope to scores who have tax complaints with the revenue collector.
Taking place under the theme: “10 Years of Making Taxpayers' Rights Matter," the Tax Ombud said until the establishment of the office, there was no independent redress channel for taxpayers, who had exhausted the normal SARS complaints mechanisms.
“The OTO was not a 'nice to have' but a prerequisite institution that has positively contributed to improving our country's tax administration system. Our intervention has saved taxpayers millions of rands, homes and businesses, to mention a few. However, we are not oblivious that we would not have achieved all this without our stakeholders,” she said.
Mputa said one of the important commitments of the Office of the Tax Ombud is the improvement of South Africa's tax administration system.
“Defending taxpayer rights is central to a tax system that follows a voluntary compliance/self-assessment tax system. In a voluntary compliance/self-assessment tax system, if taxpayers believe they are treated or may be treated arbitrarily and impulsively, they may mistrust the tax system and be less likely to comply with the law voluntarily.
“On the other hand, if taxpayers have confidence in the fairness and integrity of the tax system, they will be more likely to comply,” the Tax Ombud said.
In 2022, the Office of the Tax Ombud published the country's first-ever Compilation of Taxpayers' Rights, Entitlements and Obligations.
“This document's main aim is to highlight taxpayers' rights and obligations as contained in various laws, including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and the Tax Administration Act, 2011,” Mputa said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/26/2023 - 10:12