SA News

3 March 2024

IEC campaign to help youth participate in democracy

Location: News

IEC campaign to help youth participate in democracy

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will on Tuesday launch its annual national Civic and Democracy Education Tertiary Institutions campaign to improve the youth’s understanding of and participation in the country's democratic processes.

The launch will take place at Mopani Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in Limpopo.

The campaign aims to engage the youth of South Africa in democracy education and encourage participation in electoral processes. The event will expose over 3 000 young people Phalaborwa and the surrounds to various electoral processes.

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will deliver the keynote address. Also in attendance will be IEC chairperson, Mosotho Moepya; Commissioner Judge Dhaya Pillay; Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo and Dr Levy Baloyi, the principal of Mopani TVET College.

READ | Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections

In the 2021 Municipal Elections, 71% of registered youth aged 18 - 19 turned up to vote, while only 35% of youth aged 20 - 29 voted. However, less than 10% of eligible voters aged 18 - 29 were registered to vote in the elections.

It is against this backdrop that in the run-up to the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the Electoral Commission heightens efforts to empower youth to participate meaningfully in democratic and electoral processes.

The campaign will be rolled out to nearly 100 tertiary institution campuses countrywide until September 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 12:38

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3 March 2024

Police committed to finding Joslin Smith

Location: News

Police committed to finding Joslin Smith

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has assured the community of Diazville in the Western Cape, where Joslin Smith went missing, that they remain committed to finding the six-year-old and reuniting her with her family.

Police Minister General Bheki Cele on Saturday met with the family of Joslin Smith, as well as the residents of the broader Saldanha community.

Joslin has been missing since 19 February 2024 and the search to locate her is ongoing.

During the community meeting, Cele called for cool heads to prevail amid the finger-pointing and peddling of false information about the SAPS investigation into her disappearance.

“You are a community that has united through this trying time. Don’t allow those who are trying to get political mileage out of the disappearance of a little girl to divide you. Unite and work with the police to bring her back home.

"From the police side, I want to assure you that no resource will be spared to find her. The police have not withdrawn from this search and they are under a directive to work closer with anyone who comes up with any valuable information that can assist,” Cele said.

Both the parents of Joslin Smith met with Cele and the management of the SAPS. They were assured of the ongoing policing efforts to fast track Joslin's safe return. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 12:56

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3 March 2024

Policy to improve water, sanitation services on privately-owned land

Location: News

Policy to improve water, sanitation services on privately-owned land

Minister of Water and Sanitation Senzo Mchunu has launched a landmark policy aimed at improving the delivery of water and sanitation services on privately-owned land.

The launch took place on Friday at Cool Air Sport Grounds in Dalton under the uMshwathi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. The launch was part of activities planned for National Water Month, which is observed annually in March.

READ | DWS kick-starts National Water Month

The Water and Sanitation Services on Privately Owned Land Policy was propelled by a court case in 2019, which sought to enforce the provision of basic services to farm dwellers and others who reside on privately-owned land in different parts of the country.

Following this, the department developed a policy, which underwent extensive nationwide consultative processes for 90 days from December 2022 to March 2023. It was subsequently approved by Cabinet on 29 November 2023 for implementation.

Addressing hundreds of farm dwellers attending the policy launch held collaboratively with uMngeni-uThukela Water, the Association for Rural Advancement (AFRA), uMgungundlovu District and uMshwati Municipality, Mchunu reiterated the department’s commitment to ensure equitable provision of water and sanitation services.

“The purpose of the policy is to outline government’s intentions regarding water and sanitation services provision to residents living on privately-owned land.

“It establishes a framework for enhancing water and sanitation services provision in such areas, with specific strategies to be developed at provincial, district and local municipal levels. We are not here to just say we are launching the policy and then leave it there.

“We have measures put in place to ensure the effective and successful implementation of this policy, working collaboratively with other sister departments, civil society organisations and all spheres of government,” he said.

A comprehensive status quo analysis has been done by uMgungundlovu District Municipality in response to the 2019 court judgment.

Thus far, four boreholes in uMngeni, two in iMpendle, one in uMshwathi, nine in Mkhambathini and two in Richmond have been developed to ensure access to clean water.

A total of 231 basic sanitation facilities have been provided within the uMngungundlovu District Municipality.

Added to this, uMsunduzi Local Municipality has started with the planning process and has conducted a census of all farms under their jurisdiction needing clean water and safe sanitation services. This will enable them to allocate resources and start with the implementation of the policy.

Mchunu emphasised the commitment to implement the policy nationwide, not only in KwaZulu-Natal.

“As much as the policy is being launched under the uMgungundlovu District, its implementation will cover all corners of South Africa. We are calling upon all stakeholders to avail their resources and work alongside the department to ensure the full implementation of the policy.

“This policy is not just a document, but a programme of action to provide basic services to people living on privately-owned land,” Mchunu said.

The launch of the policy marked the beginning of a transformative journey for the Department of Water and Sanitation and the sector as a whole.

It is a commitment to a shared future where communities thrive, the environment flourishes, and every individual experiences the dignity that comes with access to basic water supply and sanitation services.

The launch provided residents, stakeholders and duty-bearers with a comprehensive understanding of the policy's key features and benefits, which includes improved access to reliable and safe water sources, enhanced service delivery and increased transparency and accountability. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 11:45

111 views

3 March 2024

2024 a critical milestone in South Africa’s history

Location: News

2024 a critical milestone in South Africa's history

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, says the year 2024 represents a critical milestone in the country’s history, as it reflects and celebrates 30 years of the democratic dispensation.

“Part of this journey of reflection requires that we critically engage in the performance of the State and society more broadly in responding to the pressing developmental needs of our people,” said the Minister on Friday.

Ramokgopa was addressing the National Planning Commission’s Strategic Lekgotla, which was convened under the theme, 'National Planning Commission (NPC): Taking the NDP Forward'.

Ramokgopa said along the journey of building a democratic society, South Africans have been empowered with key development plans and programmes, including the Freedom Charter of 1955; the Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) of 1994; the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996; the Growth, Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) of 1996; the National Development Plan (NDP) of 2012, and the Medium Term Strategic Frameworks under each administration, amongst others.

“Therefore, we are convinced and have evidence to prove that South Africa today is completely different from the South Africa we inherited in 1994,” Ramokgopa said.

She said the road to democracy is one characterised by years of struggle, resistance, resilience and unity under a common agenda for the liberation of South Africans.

“We must never find ourselves trivialising the hard-earned gains of our young democracy. Instead, we must find ways collectively to defend and advance these gains for the Tintswalos and many before and after her.

“We must also look at the state of the 35 - 45 years population cohort, who are the cohort immediately before Tintswalos.

“This cohort would have benefitted from the youth focused development programmes rolled out by government in the last 30 years, and it would be valuable to assess their state of socio-economic wellbeing to assess the impact of these programmes,” Ramokgopa said.

As the country approaches the end of the 6th administration, the Minister said it must be able to interrogate, plan and develop mitigation strategies that are associated with a transition of this nature.

“South Africa today is faced with a political environment that is charged, and if not managed properly, it has the potential to diminish democratic gains.

“We also need to robustly engage in the disjuncture between local and national government, and its impact on the populace, particularly the poor and working class, in terms of the provision of basic services, including access to clean water,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 10:01

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1 March 2024

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Location: News

Pandor travels to Türkiye for Antalya Diplomacy Forum

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Dr Naledi Pandor will participate in the 3rd Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) in Antalya in the Republic of Türkiye.

“The Minister will use the opportunity of her visit to Antalya to hold a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, Hakan Fidan,” DIRCO said on Friday.

The ADF, which is scheduled to take place from 1 – 3 March 2024, is attended by Heads of State and Government, foreign ministers, high-level officials, diplomats, non-government organisations, media and the business community from around the world.

This year’s forum takes place under the overarching theme, 'Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil'.

Pandor is scheduled to participate as a panellist on the topic, 'Understanding the Global South', on Saturday 2 March at 1:30 pm.

Other topics to be discussed during the forum include:

The Gaza Contact Group.
Building Blocks for Permanent Peace in the Middle East.
Realising the Potential of Africa.

On the sidelines of the ADF, the First Lady of the Republic of Turkey, Madam Emine Erdogan, will host a High-Level Session on Women, Peace and Security. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 09:33

579 views

1 March 2024

President mourns passing of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney

Location: News

President mourns passing of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney

President Cyril Ramaphosa has conveyed his sadness at the passing of Brian Mulroney, the former Prime Minister of Canada and Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

Mulroney, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 1993, passed away at the age of 84.

On behalf of government and the nation, President Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to the government and people of Canada, especially Mulroney’s family on the passing of a leader who holds a special place in South Africa’s history.

On Freedom Day 2015, Mulroney was honoured with the National Order of the Companions of OR Tambo (Gold) “for his exceptional contribution to the liberation movement of South Africa". His steadfast support for the release of Nelson Mandela and for imposing sanctions on South Africa's apartheid regime led to a free, democratic, non-sexist and non-racial South Africa.

President Ramaphosa said Mulroney led Canada during a critical decade in which the struggle for freedom culminated in the dismantling of apartheid.

“During his term, he spoke out against apartheid, advocated for the economic isolation of the regime and took a stand when many in the international community were wavering.

“For us, his passing is made profound by the fact that we have lost this friend and ally in the year in which we are marking 30 years of freedom and in which we pay tribute to all those around the world who supported our struggle for freedom and democracy. May his soul rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:03

687 views

1 March 2024

Gauteng officially launches school of arts

Location: News

Gauteng officially launches school of arts

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has officially launched Khutlo-Tharo Performing and Creative Arts School of Specialisation in Sebokeng on Thursday, with a focus on Research and Innovation.

The Schools of Specialisation Programme continues to be a pioneering initiative by the Gauteng Department of Education, with Khutlo-Thato marking the 35th School of Specialisation to be launched in Gauteng.

“As we reflect on the journey thus far, it is clear that the Schools of Specialisation Programme has become an integral part of Gauteng's educational legacy. Through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Gauteng continues to strive for greatness.

“We take pride in Khutlo-Tharo continuing to be a beacon of hope in this community and beyond, providing underprivileged learners with opportunities to explore and develop their creative talents that might otherwise have remained dormant within the confines of traditional education,” the Gauteng Education Department said.

In recognising the integral role of the arts in 21st-century education, the department said that the widely acknowledged STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education yields numerous benefits, including enhanced creativity, academic performance, motor skills, decision-making abilities, visual learning, and overall learning experiences.

By infusing arts into STEAM framework, learners are offered a fresh perspective on traditional subjects, fostering engagement and allowing them to explore diverse fields in a conducive and nurturing environment.

According to the department, this approach not only opens pathways to artistic careers but also prepares learners for success in more conventional professions, including those in Maths, Science and Engineering, further expanding learners' options and opportunities for their future and emphasising the Schools of Specialisation Programme aim of addressing unemployment.

The school has excelled in the arts, earning multiple accolades in music over the years, while also demonstrating resilience in achieving excellence in matric results. Since 2018, a steady increased has been witnessed, culminating in a commendable 90.8% pass rate in 2023.

During the launch, learners demonstrated how there is Science in Art. The launch was also filled with amazing theatrical, entertaining and musical acts, which showed an extensive level of dedication from learners. The school also promotes entrepreneurship, with learners selling jewellery, artworks and ornaments - all crafted and made by them.

“Indeed, we envision a transformative educational journey that nurtures and challenges learners' technical, creative, and academic talents. We are committed to dispelling stereotypes associated with arts education and demonstrating the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

“Our goal is to cultivate well-rounded citizens who will contribute meaningfully to our society and beyond, and it is the learners of Khutlo-Tharo who will be the trailblazers who turn these possibilities into reality. We look forward to embarking on this journey of growth, innovation and empowerment alongside our learners, staff and community,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:52

524 views

1 March 2024

DWS kick-starts National Water Month

Location: News

DWS kick-starts National Water Month

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.

Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.

World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.

The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.

This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment.

World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.

The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared.

The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.

Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land

The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month.

“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said.

The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.

This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections.

To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps.

“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.

“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said.

The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives.

“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58

756 views

1 March 2024

African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Location: News

African academic sector preps for 40th AEAA conference

Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi says the EXCO of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) is satisfied with the progress made in preparation of the hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference in August.

The CEO was delivering remarks on Friday at a media briefing on the state of readiness for the hosting of the conference.

“Earlier today, Umalusi presented a report to the EXCO [executive committee] of the AEAA detailing progress made to date and the tasks that still need to be undertaken for the successful hosting of the 40th AEAA Annual Conference. I can confidently report that the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made,” Rakometsi said.

Umalusi is preparing to host the AEAA annual conference from 19 to 23 August 2024 at the Century City Conference Centre and Hotel in Cape Town. The conference will be held under the theme, 'Reimagining educational assessment in the age of multiple dimensions of learning in a global society'.

The AEAA plays a crucial role in facilitating member institutions to uphold best practices in educational assessment.

Rakometsi said that having hosted the 21st AEAA Conference back in 2003 in Cape Town, during the formative years of Umalusi, they feel privileged and honoured that the EXCO of the AEAA decided to bring back the conference to South Africa, 21 years later.

Rakometsi said this is a special birthday present for Umalusi because the 40th AEAA Conference is taking place just after the body celebrated two decades of its existence.

“... It is anticipated that the conference will attract upwards of 300 delegates, comprising assessment specialists, university academics and scholars, educationists, and policy makers from the African continent, Australia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and United States of America.

“This will provide us an invaluable opportunity to, within the context of complex and unequal educational contexts, discuss and debates various issues of mutual interest for Umalusi and the other education systems of the world,” the CEO said.

Rakometsi called on Umalusi partners in South Africa to support the conference by making it possible for the relevant officials to put together abstracts and papers for the consideration of the organising committee. He extended the same call to its partners continentally and globally.

The partners include the Department of Basic Education (DBE), Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Independent Examinations Board, South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), Independent Schooling Sector, Private Further Education and Training Colleges and Adult Education and Training Colleges.

“In terms of its format, the main conference will be preceded by a workshop on assessment-related topic to build capacity amongst assessment practitioners. There will be ample opportunity for interested organisations to exhibit their services and products to the approximately 300 conference participants,” the CEO said.

Delivering his remarks during the media briefing, President of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA), Dr. David Njengere, appealed to all organisations involved in education and assessment in Africa and across the world to support the conference in whatever way possible.

He emphasised that one of the success factors for especially AEAA conferences is the support business entities sponsor and exhibit their services and products to conference delegates.

“In this regard, we are calling on all interested entities to partner with Umalusi and show case their products and services.

“Based on the report presented by Umalusi, the EXCO of the AEAA is satisfied with the progress made in preparation for the conference. We have no doubt that we are going to have a memorable conference in Cape Town in August this year,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 15:58

129 views

1 March 2024

Mpumalanga Premier reflects on 30 years of freedom

Location: News

Mpumalanga Premier reflects on 30 years of freedom

Despite the challenges faced by the country, government has made an undeniable mark in changing the lives of people for the better in the 30 years of freedom, says Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane.

Delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Friday, Mtshweni-Tsipane reflected on the gains that government has made since the dawn of democracy.

“When we were elected to office in 1994, our population was a mere 3.3million people. Today, Mpumalanga is home to 5.1 million people.

“The gross domestic product (GDP), that is the value of goods and services produced in Mpumalanga, was R46 billion. Today, our economy has grown in leaps and bounds to more than R530 billion, 12 times bigger than what it was, becoming the fourth largest economy in the country,” the Premier said.

In 1996, there were around 627 000 people employed in the province. The economy now employs more than 1.25 million people.

The percentage of people living below the lower bound poverty line has improved drastically from 64% in 1996 to 49.5% in 2022.

“This is supplemented by the provision of a wider safety security net that includes the special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress grant, the Old Age Pension Grant, the Child Support Grant and the Care Dependency Grants, to name but a few examples," the Premier said.

Education, basic services

Mtshweni-Tsipane said there has been a "phenomenal" growth in access to education in the province, with the Statistics South Africa General Household Survey findings indicating that the percentage of seven to 17-year-olds attending school in Mpumalanga province stands at 98%.

“The throughput rate has improved from 46% in 2019 to 72% in 2023.

“Before 1994, thousands of children from poor families attended classes on an empty stomach. They had to endure traveling long distances to attend school. Today one million children in this province from poor backgrounds enjoy free hot meals served at their respective schools,” the Premier said.

Approximately 75 000 students are transported to school daily through the scholar transport programme.

Government has built six state-of-the-art boarding schools to restore the dignity and the plight of farm dweller children and improve the quality of education.

“Prior to 1994, teenage girls from poor background would miss school due to unaffordable sanitary towels. Today, government has restored the dignity of the girl child. A total of 96 077 girl children in quintile one schools are provided with sanitary towels," the Premier said.

In 1994, the province had no universities. There were only a few technical colleges.

“Today, Mpumalanga is home to four universities, which are the University of Mpumalanga, the Tshwane University of Technology, the Vaal University of Technology, and the University of South Africa. We are also home to two private universities, which are Eduvos and Regenesys.

“In 1994, there were 89 public libraries. Today, we have 123 fully equipped public libraries, translating to 34 newly built libraries in townships and rural villages,” the Premier said.

In 1994, only a few households had access to piped clean water and proper sanitation.

"Today, 87% of households in Mpumalanga have access to clean water and more than 93% have access to adequate sanitation. More than 94% of all residents in Mpumalanga have access to electricity," Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

Health

In 1994, the infant mortality rate in Mpumalanga was 80 per 1 000 live births. That figure stands at 11.2 per 1000 live births.

“Before the advent of our democracy, the life expectancy of our people in this province was hovering around 50 years and lower. Today, our people are living longer, with women averaging 65.8 years and men 60.7 years. We would like to see these figures rising to an average of 75 and 70 years respectively.

“One of the reasons our people are living longer and healthier is because our government has an extensive TB and HIV/AIDS treatment programmes, which have assisted in prolonging the lives of those affected,” the Premier said.

Land

In 1994, more than 85% of land in Mpumalanga was in the hands of the minority. Currently, about 1 767 370 hectares of land have been acquired and transferred to the hands of the previously disadvantaged through the land reform programmes of restitution and redistribution.

“Of this land, over 555 000 hectares of land has been restituted back to our people through communal property associations, benefitting in excess of 110 000 beneficiaries, which include women, youth and persons with disabilities.

“From our agricultural support programmes, like Masibuyele Esibayeni and Masibuyele eMasimini for emerging farmers, we are supporting farmers with livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats, pig and chickens,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

Housing

The provincial government has built 236 395 low-cost houses for the most vulnerable.

“We have serviced 65 538 sites for the missing middle category, those who do not qualify for subsidised houses but also not qualifying for bank funded bonds. In total, this translates to 301 833 housing opportunities created.

“We have also issued 88 551 title deeds to the homeowners, guaranteeing their rights and the rights of their descendants to the ownership of such properties for life,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 12:11

564 views

1 March 2024

Government doing all it can to improve lives

Location: News

Government doing all it can to improve lives

Government is doing all it can to pursue a more just, inclusive and fundamentally transformed society, says Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng.

“Key to achieving this is ethical leadership in all spheres of government and in our context, in local government... [it] is at the epicentre of delivery of human rights,” Nkadimeng said on Friday.

Addressing the Summit on Ethical Leadership in Local Government currently underway in Johannesburg, Nkadimeng said ethical leadership embodies integrity, accountability and a commitment to serving the people who have entrusted government with their well-being.

“It means, for example, acknowledging the injustices of the past, addressing the present challenges, and ensuring that every citizen has access to the basic services they need to thrive.”

According to the Minister, ethical leadership entails a deep-rooted understanding of the importance to provide clean, running water to the elderly, as this will enable them to take their medication on time and maintain their health and dignity.

“It could also mean having a holistic comprehension of the intricacies of Local Economic Development (LED), recognising its role in developing sustainable growth, empowering local businesses, and catalysing socio-economic progress.

“...[Ethical leadership] could mean no corruption... in the delivery of services to our people and adhering to the principle of treating others as we wish to be treated ourselves.

“Our democracy has matured, with each election strengthening the voice of the people. We have seen landmark legislation enacted by the current government to safeguard human rights and promote equality,” Nkadimeng said.

LED is an approach towards economic development that allows and encourages local people to work together to achieve sustainable economic growth and development, thereby bringing economic benefits and improved quality of life for all residents in a local municipal area.

As a CoGTA programme, LED is intended to maximise the economic potential of all municipal localities throughout the country and to enhance the resilience of macro-economic growth through increased local economic growth, employment creation and development initiatives within the context of sustainable development.

Nkadimeng said government has made tangible improvements in expanding access to essential services, as reported by Statistics South Africa’s Census 2022.

“Yet, despite our achievements, our journey towards a truly just and equitable society is far from complete. We still face deep-rooted inequalities, systemic injustices and pervasive poverty that continue to marginalise millions of our fellow citizens.

“As leaders and stakeholders in local government, it is our duty to confront these challenges head-on, to prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable members of our society, and to work tirelessly to build a future where every person, regardless of their background, can thrive.

“We should, as a collective, ask ourselves, for example, if the people residing in the 66 dysfunctional municipalities are content with the current state of their municipalities and the limitations they face in accessing basic services,” the Minister said.

Ethics in the public service

Nkadimeng said the Constitution of South Africa requires a high standard of professional ethics in the public service.

“This therefore means that public administration must be governed by the democratic values and principles, as well as the standards for professional ethics enshrined in the Constitution,” she said.

Also speaking at the same event was the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Head, Advocate Shamila Batohi, who said in local government, service delivery is key.

“When there is no service delivery, people get frustrated,” she said.

Batohi said corruption affects people and in this regard, criminal investigations are crucial.

“Without committed leadership and ethical leadership, it is hard to deal with corruption. We need to make sure that we build strong leadership. We need to ensure that we put the right people in positions,” Batohi said.

Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), Advocate Andy Mothibi, also emphasised the importance of ethical leadership.

Mothibi said poor governance leads to poor service delivery.

“It is important that we put in place measures that deal with corruption,” said Mothibi, adding that ethical leadership is needed in the whole of government.

The Summit on Ethical Leadership in Local Government marks the culmination of three years of collaborative efforts within the Local Government Ethical Leadership Initiative (LGELI).

LGELI is a partnership between The Ethics Institute, the Department for Cooperative Governance, the South African Local Government Association and the Moral Regeneration Movement, which was established to develop the Code for Ethical Leadership in Local Government, as envisaged in the Local Government Anti-Corruption Strategy.

It is a five-year project that commenced in October 2019 and is convened under the Chairpersonship of Father Smangaliso Mkhatshwa. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 13:05

260 views

1 March 2024

SA, Netherlands recommit to cooperation in water and sanitation sector

Location: News

SA, Netherlands recommit to cooperation in water and sanitation sector

The governments of South Africa and the Netherlands have undertaken to explore more cooperation opportunities in the water and sanitation sector in order to strength the existing relations between the two States.

The two countries made the undertaking when Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu joined by Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, met with the Ambassador of the Netherlands to South Africa, Joanne Doornewaard, in Pretoria this week.

Mchunu and Doornewaard held their first meeting since the Ambassador was posted to South Africa in August 2023.

A number of issues were discussed at the meeting, including the bilateral agreement on water management between the two countries, as well as other collaboration opportunities in the water and sanitation sector.

Expanding on the existing relations between the two States, Mchunu acknowledged the expertise and contribution offered by the Netherlands in the water and sanitation space, saying that it has a significant impact.

Mchunu said the visit by His Majesty the King of Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima in South Africa in October last year, as part of the Blue Deal Project, demonstrated the love they have for the people of South Africa.

The Minister outlined some challenges that the country continues to face, including delipidating infrastructure at municipal level, resulting in water losses.

“South Africa remains one of the driest countries in the world, yet we have a high rate of non-venue water at municipal level, losing so much water that we so need. We need lots of work around this matter [through] investing more in our water infrastructure to ensure that we nip this in a bud,” Mchunu said.

He said that South Africa has more challenges in water services than it has with water resources.

Mchunu, however, maintained there is no water crisis in the country but is experiencing “isolated incidents that do not equate to a crisis".

Phillips said the department and the sector at large are reaping the benefits of some programmes undertaken by the Netherlands government under the Blue Deal Project, particularly in the supply chain management in infrastructure procurement.

“We have had an internationally renowned expert in infrastructure procurement, who has imparted so much knowledge that we are currently implementing to modernise our systems. This is going to make a huge improvement in our service delivery, and we want to take this to our water boards and municipalities to implement as well,” Phillips said.

Doornewaard outlined several projects that they want to undertake in Limpopo and other parts of the country, as part of support to the country’s water challenges and other sectors.

“We just want to lend a helping hand to the country,” Doornewaard said.

South Africa and the Netherlands signed the Blue Deal agreement, which aims to support water management by exchanging knowledge and experience. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 13:30

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1 March 2024

128 Mpumalanga schools introduce coding, robotics

Location: News

128 Mpumalanga schools introduce coding, robotics

The Mpumalanga provincial government has introduced coding and robotics in 128 schools, as part of its pilot programme.

“That pilot is progressing well and 128 schools, from Grade R to 3 and Grade 7, are currently doing coding and robotics,” Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane said on Friday when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA).

Since 2022, in its quest to improve learner performance, the provincial government is providing all Grade 12 learners and teachers in Quantile 1 to 3 schools with tablets and laptops respectively.

These devices, the Premier said, are loaded with e-content and will be provided this year with an offline application to enable access to learning even outside the four walls of the classroom without data or connectivity.

“This government continues to strengthen e-learning in our schools. This year, the province will introduce the smart schools concept in eight schools where both teachers and learners will utilise technological devices and thus making the schools paperless," Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

She said the land for the construction of the proposed School for the Deaf and Blind has been secured at Emalahleni Municipality.

“Once the school is completed, the 250 deaf learners currently studying at Bukhosibetfu Full Service School and the 200 in other special schools will be relocated to the new school."

Job creation

By the end of January 2024, a total of 63 478 jobs were created through the 21 identified programmes, including the Siyatentela Road Maintenance Programme, Government Nutrition Programme, School Handymen and Tourism Safety Monitors, to name a few.

“Since 2021 and through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, we have trained and created a total of 65 296 job opportunities for unemployed youth in different schools.

“Since its inception in 2019, the Premier’s Youth Development Fund has disbursed R258 million to fund 182 youth-owned enterprises. The funded beneficiaries have created more than 630 jobs in agriculture, mining, manufacturing as well as film and production,” Mtshweni-Tsipane said.

Growing tourism

As part of ongoing efforts to attract tourism to Mpumalanga, the provincial government has upgraded tourism facilities in four nature reserves with accommodation facilities.

These include Songimvelo-Kromdraai Camp, Andover, SS Skhosana and Manyeleti.

“Phase 2 of fence installations is in progress in order to minimise human wildlife conflict in Songimvelo, Mthethomusha and Mdala reserves. It’s important for us to implement these projects efficiently, economically and effectively in order to increase the number visitors to our province.

"We are pleased with the intention to support the provincial efforts in this regard, expressed from the National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development,” the Premier said.

As of 1 April 2024, FlySaFair introduced new routes between Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Cape Town

“This adds further impetus to the gains we made when Eurowings, a German airline, chose Mpumalanga as its destination of choice more than a year ago. This is further supported by the Stats SA Tourism and migration report released in January 2024, which placed Mpumalanga at the second spot in international tourist arrivals.

“As early as February 2024, we entered into a strategic partnership with Aspinall Foundation to elevate the Loskop Dam Nature Reserve to a Big Five Game Reserve. We have also concluded a collaboration with Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation to fight poaching in Manyeleti. This collaboration includes establishing new pickets, maintenance of fence and the training of field rangers,” the Premier said.

Transport

The provincial government plans to build a state-of-the-art interchange along the railway line from the city centre leading to Pine Ridge, Klarinet, Siyanqoba and Verena.

“This interchange will improve safety and ease traffic flow in that area. The planning and design process has been completed. The construction of the interchange will commence in the 2024/25 financial,” the Premier said.

During the current administration, government will complete projects including the rehabilitation of sections P8/1 (R36) between Mashishing and Bambi Phase 3; D2950 Mananga to River Crossing; Coal Haul P36/1 Delmas to N12 and the upgrading of D481 Mooiplaas and Ekulindeni; D4407 Hluvukani – Orpen Road near Welverdied.

Caring for the vulnerable

Since the beginning of the sixth administration, government has placed 542 children in foster care.

The Premier also touched on social ills.

"Substance abuse has become endemic, negatively impacting on the lives of the substance abusers and their close families. We opened our doors and our hearts to more than 1 942 substance abusers who needed our help.

“We have completed the construction of the Swartfontein and the Nkangala treatment centres. In the days ahead, we will officially handover the Nkangala treatment centre.

“In the current administration, 7 409 Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) have been supported to implement programmes that are impact driven and aid our efforts to create a Mpumalanga anchored on morals and social cohesion,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 12:54

47 views

1 March 2024

DWS kickstarts National Water Month