SA News

6 September 2023

SARS Commissioner calls for tax administrators to be excluded from budget cuts

Location: News

SARS Commissioner calls for tax administrators to be excluded from budget cuts

South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has called on National Treasuries to exclude tax administrations from across-the-board austerity measures, as it poses a threat to innovation, fiscal integrity and sovereignty.

“Once you suspend funding, the end result will always be the suspension of innovation and regression against the progress of other administrations. This goes against the intrinsic value of digitalisation in improving tax compliance and detecting tax non-compliance,” Kieswetter said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

He was addressing the 2nd Network of Tax Organisation (NTO) Technical Conference, which took place under the theme: ‘Digitalisation of Tax Administrations and Contemporary Issues’.

“As more financial transactions are taking place digitally, more third party data sources are shared with tax administrations, and central bank digital currencies are emerging, the importance of digitalisation and consequently the use of data science, and artificial intelligence have become central to revenue collection, compliance and trade facilitation.

“So, in short, whenever budget cuts are required, National Treasuries – Budget Offices are advised to avoid across-the-board cuts and ensure a more prudent approach to invest to build enabling and productive economic capacity, create employment, and thus expand the tax base.

“This secures fiscal integrity and sovereignty in the long run. Tax administrations should be excluded from across-the-board austerity measures. The investment in digitalisation should not be disrupted. The cost of recovery is simply too high in every respect,” Kieswetter said.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the modernisation and digitisation of work at SARS.

“COVID-19 inadvertently took us to the drawing board to think from first principles, and very quickly accelerated our response towards reprioritising our technology investment to enable our employees to work during the hard lockdown and to allow taxpayers to continue to fulfil their tax obligations,” the Commissioner said.

Although SARS has made progress, he explained that much more still needs to be done, as the revenue service is behind in its digitalisation journey.

“I want to pause here and focus on one element as a critical enabler of the digitalisation journey - and that relates to funding. Before State capture, SARS was a leader in digital modernisation for many years.

“However, partly due to financial constraints, but also a short-term approach, budgets were then frozen for a number of years and SARS fell behind in driving technological innovation. We have now managed to restore some additional funds to continue our modernisation, but we are still substantially underfunded to move at the necessary speed in an environment that is changing exponentially, business models are being disrupted, and tax crime proliferating at an alarming rate,” he said.

SARS faces the challenge of not only having to play catch-up after many years of underinvestment, but also of accelerating modernisation simply to remain relevant.

“We are at a point where we can again focus on innovation. The important lesson here is that the digitalisation journey is not a finite project, but a new way of being. It is an ongoing journey. Once you suspend funding, the end result will always be the suspension of innovation and regression against the progress of other administrations,” the Commissioner said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 10:08

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6 September 2023

Govt reviews Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act

Location: News

Govt reviews Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government has embarked on a comprehensive review of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act of 2005, to ensure that the different spheres of government work in a joined-up and coordinated manner to secure the well-being of the people of South Africa, among other things.

“In the design of our democratic unitary state, we introduced cooperative governance to ensure that the three spheres of government worked together to meet the needs of the people. Each sphere of government has constitutionally assigned powers and functions that cannot be encroached upon, but need to be mutually respected.

“Chapter 3 of the Constitution requires all spheres of government to cooperate with one another in mutual trust and good faith by, among others, fostering friendly relations and assisting and supporting one another. Importantly, the Constitution says that all spheres of government must secure the well-being of the people of the Republic,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said the District Development Model (DDM) is geared towards improving and strengthening the intergovernmental relations system as an approach towards giving effect to the Constitutional principles of cooperative governance.

“The District Development Model approach has made great strides in ensuring that the principles of cooperative governance guide how we plan, budget and implement key government programmes and projects across the country. This is demonstrated through the Presidential Izimbizo and implementation of key catalytic projects identified in intergovernmental long-term One Plans.”

To date, the President said, experiences in the implementation of the DDM have placed greater emphasis on the requirements to undertake a review and re-look at the policy instruments framing and guiding of intergovernmental relations system, and cooperative governance.

Progress in addressing challenges identified at Imbizos

President Ramaphosa highlighted some of the progress made and key service delivery interventions through Izimbizo, and these include road maintenance projects in Mpumalanga, the provision of title deeds in North West, measures to tackle livestock theft in the Free State, and the provision of water in North West, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.

The President said through the Izimbizo government has further identified opportunities for skills development in key economic sectors in districts such as mining and agriculture in North West and Limpopo and energy programmes in Northern Cape.

“Through the information and contribution collected during the various Izimbizo, it has been possible to identify interventions that are required in many localities across the country. The benefit of these engagements therefore extends beyond the communities in which they take place as they are able to improve service provision more generally,” President Ramaphosa said.

He added that the documenting and tracking of key resolutions emanating from the Izimbizo are part of the design of the Izimbizo.

“Quarterly implementation reports indicate that measurable progress is being made in addressing the challenges identified, which are done in an intergovernmental manner. The various intergovernmental platforms established through the Izimbizo protocols are also tasked to address challenges where these occur.

“District Development Model political champions are assigned for each district and metro, and are tasked to provide regular updates not just to the established intergovernmental platforms but also to the respective communities,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 10:01

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6 September 2023

Lady R executive summary report released

Location: News

Lady R executive summary report released

The executive summary of the independent panel’s investigation into the December 2022 docking of the Lady R vessel at Simonstown has been released.

The Presidency on Tuesday evening said that due to the classified nature of the evidence that informed the report, “government will not publicly engage further on the substance of the report”.

The vessel’s docking gave rise to public controversy, when now debunked allegations suggested that South Africa had loaded weapons onto the ship bound for Russia to assist in that country’s current conflict with Ukraine.

In the executive summary, the panel – led by Judge Phineas Mojapelo – explained that cargo was only offloaded from the vessel.

“The details of the equipment offloaded and its intended use were made known to the panel. In light of this classified information, the panel accepted the reasons provided for the decision to offload the equipment at night.

“This, as well as the nature and purpose of the equipment, are aspects which may need to be considered when the President decides what may be published.

“Despite some rumours that some equipment or arms were loaded on the Lady R, the panel found no evidence to substantiate those claims. Available evidence only confirmed the offloading and that there was nothing loaded,” the summary reads.

The executive summary is available for download here https://www.presidency.gov.za/download/file/fid/2862.

During his address to the nation on Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted that the allegations had done damage to South Africa’s image.

“In recent months, statements from several quarters have used these allegations to call into question South Africa’s commitment to its position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The allegations levelled against our country had a damaging effect on our currency, economy and our standing in the world. In fact, it tarnished our image as a country.

“When all matters are considered, none of the allegations made about the supply of weapons to Russia have been proven to be true, and none of the persons who made these allegations could provide any evidence to support the claims that had been levelled against our country,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 10:04

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6 September 2023

President condemns attacks on judiciary

Location: News

President condemns attacks on judiciary

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated his condemnation of the attacks on the judiciary.

“All the citizens of South Africa are enjoined to respect, protect and promote our Constitution and the rule of law by respecting and protecting the judicial authority of our courts.

“This is important to ensure that our constitutional democracy continues to thrive,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

Participating in a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly, the President explained that the judiciary is an essential part of the democratic order.

“The Constitution clearly states that the courts are independent and subject only to the Constitution and the law, which they must apply impartially and without fear, favour or prejudice.

“I have often spoken out publicly against attacks on our judiciary. Unless supported by evidence, such claims undermine confidence in our courts and weaken our Constitutional order,” he said.

The President acknowledged that the Constitution guarantees of freedom of expression and opinion. However, he reminded South Africans that these freedoms should not undermine the Constitutional order, as this may lead to the erosion of trust in the judiciary.

Section 165(3) of the Constitution states: “No person or organ of State may interfere with the functioning of the courts”.

President Ramaphosa encouraged anyone who feels aggrieved by the conduct of any member of the judiciary to approach any of the relevant bodies to lodge a complaint.

“In the case of judges, this body is the Judicial Service Commission and in the case of magistrates, it is the Magistrates Commission. If the grievance is about a court’s decision, there are processes of review and appeal available.

“The Chief Justice is tasked with the development, implementation and monitoring of the norms and standards applicable to the Judiciary and therefore the Chief Justice can also be approached to ensure that the norms and standards are adhered to,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 09:10

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5 September 2023

SA strives to meet national ambient air quality standards

Location: News

SA strives to meet national ambient air quality standards

While South Africa’s air quality monitoring network shows that the country has not yet met the national ambient air quality standards, significant strides to attain improvements in the quality of air have been made.

Addressing the National Air Quality Governance Lekgotla, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Makhotso Sotyu, said despite government’s efforts over the years, particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and ozone remain the key pollutants of concern, especially in metropolitan municipalities and the air quality priority areas.

“Large scale industrial activities, power stations, vehicles, waste burning, and the burning of open veld continue to be major causes of air pollution. Recently, load shedding has increased the country’s reliance on alternative energy sources such as generators, coal, wood, charcoal, and paraffin in communities. The reliance on these alternative energy sources not only poses health hazards to the individuals themselves, but also exacerbate the deterioration of air quality,” Sotyu said on Monday.

Since the promulgation of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, South Africa has made significant strides to attain improvements in the quality of air.

“Our country has progressively facilitated the realisation of the Constitutional Right to an environment that promotes sustainable, equitable and inclusive growth that is not harmful to the health and well-being of citizens.

“We have advanced these constitutional rights to a safe and healthy environment with strong laws, vibrant cooperative governance, and innovative tools on air pollution management. These laws and tools must be supported by an effective and proactive enforcement to reduce harmful levels of air pollution and ensure a safe and healthy environment,” Sotyu said.

She further noted that South Africa’s quality monitoring stations continue to face increasing pressure due to escalating operational and maintenance costs and ageing infrastructure.

“At a time when the country is faced with economic and social challenges, and fiscal constraints, the national Department has had to find new ways to meet monitoring objectives through the support of the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

“We will be calling upon the entity to assist all spheres of government in managing several strategic stations for the foreseeable future. Such an intervention must ultimately build the much-needed technical capacity in government that will be sustainable,” she said.

The National Air Quality Governance Lekgotla took place in Polokwane, Limpopo, under the theme: “Scalable Emission Reductions by 2030.”

“While capacity at local government remains a challenge, the implementation of the Special Cabinet decision to assist struggling municipalities with the administrative function of processing atmospheric emission licences has enabled significant improvements in this regard.

“The sector has achieved an efficiency of 88% in processing atmospheric emission licences in the last financial year, compared to 63% achieved in the previous financial year,” Sotyu said.

The Deputy Minister said the department is developing priority area regulations to implement and enforce Priority Area Air Quality Management Plans.

“I am happy to report that these regulations have undergone extensive public consultations and will be considered for publication soon. These regulations will intensify accountability and a shared responsibility across all sectors of society in improving the quality of air,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 09:51

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5 September 2023

UIF launches free mobile app to speed up its services

Location: News

UIF launches free mobile app to speed up its services

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) has launched a zero-rated mobile APP, as well as a free USSD platform to enable clients to access UIF services at any time.

This will go a long way to reducing long queues at the labour centres.

The app, which was launched on Monday, will bring services to the people and enable UIF clients to access services at any time, from anywhere at no cost.

Unveiling the platforms during a media briefing in Cape Town, Maruping said the USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) and mobile APP will promote greater self-service for clients, reduce long queues in the labour centres and alleviate pressure on officials.

UIF Commissioner Teboho Maruping believes the platforms will put more money in the pockets of clients because they will save on transport costs currently incurred when visiting labour centres.

“There is really no better time than now to do this to ensure that workers begin to access services at their fingertips. We are moving with the times to create a better, more capable UIF that leverages technology to respond to challenges on the ground and changes in the external environment,” Maruping said.

He said the UIF recognises that most of their clients may not be in the best financial position when they need to access their services, hence the initiative to launch the mobile app and USSD platform.

Maruping said the two platforms also enable clients to check their UIF registration status, which will improve non-compliance with the Unemployment Insurance Act by employers who fail to register, declare and pay contributions for their workers.

“By simply dialling *134*843# on any cellular phone for free, clients can, among others, submit a continuation of payment or check their claim and payment status, instead of visiting a labour centre. The same services can also be accessed on our mobile APP, which can be downloaded from either Google Play Store, App Store for IOS phones or Huawei App Store,” Maruping explained.

The Commissioner also called on all UIF contributing workers to use these platforms to check their registration status, whilst in employment, and not wait until they are no longer working.

“If you find that your employer has not registered you, but is deducting UIF, then immediately report this to a labour inspector so it can be corrected,” Maruping said.

The Commissioner stressed that the fund is committed to taking bold steps to improve service delivery.

The UIF will go on roadshows to educate clients in all provinces and implement a mass media campaign.

“In addition to these new platforms, we recently installed free Wi-Fi at all labour centres around the country to enable clients to access our services online and reduce the time it takes to queue for assistance. Meanwhile, our mobile buses continue to take services to the doorsteps of clients, especially in deep rural and remote areas,” Maruping said.

Maruping also visited the Bellville labour centre to interact with clients and promote the platforms. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 10:42

529 views

5 September 2023

Deadline looms for comments on minimum wage adjustments

Location: News

Deadline looms for comments on minimum wage adjustments

Stakeholders with an interest in the adjustment of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) have until Friday to submit their written representations.

The National Minimum Wage Commission, through its Chairperson Professor Adriaan van der Walt, issued a notice on 1 August 2023 inviting all interested parties to submit written representations concerning possible adjustment to the NMW in 2024.

“The written comments/representations concerning possible adjustments to the National Minimum Wage will be considered by the Commission before it publishes its annual report and recommendations on the annual review of the national minimum wage later in the year,” Van der Walt said.

The invite for written submissions is conducted in accordance with section 6(2) of the National Minimum Wage Act, No. 9 of 2018.

The current rate of NMW as announced by Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi in February 2023 jumped from R23.19 (in 2022) to R25.42 for each ordinary hour worked.

The annual rate came into effect from 01 March 2023.

The existing National Minimum Wage determination now includes the vulnerable sectors of farm workers and the domestic workers – whom with effect from last year were also aligned with the NMW rates.

The National Minimum Wage Act applies to all workers and their employers except members of the South African National Defence Force, the National Intelligence Agency and the South African Secret Service.

The act does not apply to a volunteer, who is a person who performs work for another person and who does not receive or is not entitled to receive, any remuneration for his or her service

A fine maybe imposed on an employer who paid an employee less than the national minimum wage.

The primary functions of the Commission is to review the NMW and make recommendations annually for its adjustment, and to investigate the impact of the NMW on the economy, collective bargaining and income differentials among others.

Representations should reach the directorate: Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001 or be sent to nmwreview@labour.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 11:24

403 views

5 September 2023

SA benefits economically from BRICS grouping

Location: News

SA benefits economically from BRICS grouping

Outlining the economic benefits of South Africa's participation in the BRICS grouping, President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed Members of Parliament that South Africa’s trade with the bloc has increased by an average of 10% every year over the period 2017 to 2021.

“The total South African trade with other BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] countries reached R830 billion in 2022, which represents an increase of more than 70% from R487 billion in 2017,” the President said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

Participating in a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly, President Ramaphosa explained that BRICS is an important source of foreign direct investment in key areas such as mining, automotive, transportation, clean energy, financial services and information technology (IT).

These investments and projects lead to significant job creation.

“South Africa has experienced significant benefits through its membership as well as its association with the BRICS grouping of countries. South Africa uses its BRICS membership to improve investment, trade, tourism, as well as capacity building, and it also flows into skills acquisition and technological capabilities that we see this relationship yielding for our country.

“Strengthening economic as well as financial ties between BRICS member countries is one of the key pillars of this cooperation that we have forged with all these countries,” the President said.

In 2020, the countries adopted the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership to increase access to each other’s markets, promote mutual trade and investment, and create a business-friendly environment for investors in all BRICS countries.

“Furthermore, the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Alliance bring together important commercial networks that promote trade and investment partnerships among BRICS countries. In 2015, BRICS countries launched the New Development Bank to finance and largely support infrastructure and sustainable development projects,” President Ramaphosa said.

To date, the New Development Bank has provided funding to 12 projects in South Africa to the value of over R100 billion.

“Our membership of BRICS makes a valuable contribution to the implementation of our Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. For example, growing the tourism industry is one of the priorities of the Plan. The BRICS countries are becoming increasingly important tourism markets for South Africa.

“In terms of supporting energy security in South Africa, another pillar of our recovery plan, BRICS countries have the expertise and technologies to support energy cooperation. In 2020, BRICS adopted a Road Map for BRICS Energy Cooperation up to 2025 aimed at building a strategic partnership in energy cooperation,” the President said.

On infrastructure investment, which is another pillar of the recovery plan, South Africa will continue to access funding from the New Development Bank for energy, transport and water.

“The inclusion of Argentina, Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as new members of the group will strengthen beneficial cooperation with South Africa in political, economic and financial matters.

“These countries will enhance economic partnership in key sectors such as oil and energy, telecommunication and information technology, agriculture, textile, logistics, air transportation and tourism and medicine,” the President said.

Last month’s three-day BRICS Summit wrapped up with several successful outcomes, including the expansion of the six aforementioned countries to become full members of BRICS effective from January 2024.

South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS Summit from 22-24 August in Johannesburg. This year’s summit took place under the theme, ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism’.

The President said South Africa expects that its trade links and investments participation with all the additional countries will increase.

This addition is also expected to contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism industry.

“In economic terms, all these new additional countries are big players and on the horizon are a number of other countries that have indicated their willingness to be part of BRICS and they too will be considered in the next phase.

“We will obviously look at the economic value in terms of participation for all of us as BRICS members. These additional countries will be boosting our Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Plan and we expect great benefits from all this.

“The benefits for our countries has been very clear right from the beginning. It has led to enhanced activity amongst ourselves and all these countries. Being a BRICS member does contribute a great deal to economic growth as well,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 15:18

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5 September 2023

Over 11 000 public servants undergo lifestyle audits

Location: News

Over 11 000 public servants undergo lifestyle audits

President Cyril Ramaphosa says over 11 000 public servants in national government have undergone lifestyle audits, as at March 2023.

The President announced this when he appeared before Members of the National Assembly to reply to questions during a hybrid plenary sitting held this afternoon.

Responding to a question by Democratic Alliance leader, John Steenhuisen, who had asked whether the lifestyle audits on Members of the Executive have been concluded yet, President Ramaphosa said lifestyle audits of public servants have been compulsory since 2021.

He said the lifestyle audit process for Members of the Executive is spearheaded by the Office of the Director-General in the Presidency and the Secretary of Cabinet.

“The process was institutionally initiated towards the end of 2022. Earlier this year, I sent letters to the Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers requesting their written consent to the process to ensure that the information is obtained in a legitimate and legal manner.

“I received the same letter signed by the Director-General and Secretary of Cabinet. The Members of the Executive, including myself, have submitted consent forms for the nationally-driven process of lifestyle audits,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa noted the implementation of the lifestyle audits has been delayed by the change of the service provider. He said the implementation of the project is anticipated to be concluded by the end of this financial year.

While welcoming the decision of the lifestyle audit, Member of the National Assembly for the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Mkhuleko Hlengwa, said the issue with the lifestyle audit is with capacity and that it should be run parallel with the 2014 Cabinet decision that all executives in SOEs [State-owned enterprises] and SCM [Supply Chain Management] practitioners must be vetted.

The President acknowledged that the process of vetting is lengthy, with some people leaving the public service without being vetted.

He said different ways of speeding it up are being looked into.

“I am one of those who sees the delays in vetting people being quite detrimental to our public service because we need to know much earlier the standing of those that we employ, whether they are able to execute their task with the integrity that we require of them,” the President said.

The President said that the Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security Agency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, is attending to the matter.

The President dispelled the notion that only public servants are being subjected to lifestyle audits, reiterating that Members of Executive are also being subjected to lifestyle audit.

“When we subject them to lifestyle audits, we have to go through a process and they are quite intrusive and get into private details of the members’ lives… We have to implement proper processes so that we arrive at the type of conclusion that we would like to see.” – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 15:29

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5 September 2023

Public Protector urged to respect constitutional process on suspension

Location: News

Public Protector urged to respect constitutional process on suspension

President Cyril Ramaphosa has outlined to suspended Public Protector Adv. Busisiwe Mkhwebane the constitutional processes that pertain to her suspension or potential removal from office, which therefore prevent her from reporting for duty.

In a letter on Monday, the President set out the conditions preventing Mkhwebane’s return to the office.

“The President was responding to a letter he received from Adv. Mkhwebane earlier on the same day in which she expressed her intention to report for duty today, Tuesday, 5 September 2023, until the expiry of her term of office on 14 October 2023 or any lawful removal in terms of Section 194 of the Constitution, whichever happens first,” the Presidency said.

The President has pointed out to Adv. Mkhwebane that her intention to return to work is misconceived.

This is due to the fact that the proceedings initiated by a Committee of the National Assembly, which has inquired into Adv. Mkhwebane’s fitness to hold office have yet to be completed.

The Presidency said that since the Committee has adopted its report, the proceedings, which it initiated, will be finalised either when the National Assembly does not adopt a resolution calling for the removal from office of Adv. Mkhwebane, or if the National Assembly does adopt such a resolution.

In his letter, the President said: “It is therefore patently clear that the process initiated by the Committee is not completed, (as your letter suggests) when the enquiry by the Committee has been finalised.

“In the circumstances, you have no right or entitlement in law to return to office pending the decisions to which I refer above.

“In the circumstances, while I thank you for your courtesy in informing me of your intention, your interpretation of the Presidential Minute and my letter is wrong, and your intention to return to office is misconceived.

“Your letter states that you were advised on 24 August 2023 that the Committee had completed its part of the process, and that its report would be tabled in the National Assembly. You waited until today to inform me of your intention to return to office tomorrow. Such precipitate action is unjustified on any basis”. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 11:36

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5 September 2023

De Lille invites comments on tourism Green Paper

Location: News

De Lille invites comments on tourism Green Paper

To usher in Tourism Month and the upcoming Summer Campaign, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed Cabinet’s concurrence of ‘The Green Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa’ to be published for public comment.

“The Green Paper comes at a particularly exciting time for tourism globally and in South Africa. Tourism is a growth sector and generator of jobs, and tourist destinations need to position themselves to take advantage of this sector’s recovery growth trajectory,” De Lille said.

The tourism sector has continued to grow for the past decade, earning the reputation of being one of the most significant and fastest-growing sectors before COVID-19.

In 2019, it contributed 3.7% to the local GDP and created 780 096 direct South African jobs. Despite numerous advances, the tourism sector lags relative to its potential.

To respond to this challenge and to accelerate inclusive tourism growth, the Department of Tourism embarked on a process of reviewing the 1996 Tourism White Paper.

The policy review process has yielded the Green Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa. The Green Paper seeks to sustainably grow a more inclusive tourism sector that creates mass employment, reacts to innovations and adapts to future crises.

“The Green Paper seeks to facilitate growth and transformation of the tourism sector by creating an enabling regulatory environment for the present and future, especially with regards to technological developments.

“The Green Paper further seeks to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the broader economy and drive employment and entrepreneurship, whilst enabling the sector to adapt to future crises.

“I invite the public to study The Green Paper on the Development and Promotion of Tourism in South Africa and provide us with substantive comments,” the Minister said.

The vision of the Green Paper is to sustainably and competitively grow the South African economy through an inclusive, inspiring, visitor-oriented tourism sector that consistently builds partnerships to strengthen the impact of the sector nationally, regionally and globally.

Its aim is also to address barriers to tourism growth and to respond to the social cohesion imperatives of the country.

Key elements include but are not limited to:

• Implementation of a research-based tourism safety response programme in partnership with relevant agencies.

• Develop and regularly review tourism crisis management framework to enable a response to crises.

• Implementation of Tourism BBBEE Codes & strengthening mechanism for access to finance.

• Facilitation of ease of access to the destination, especially as it relates to immigration and transport.

• Recommitting the sector to the responsible tourism agenda.

• Regulation of short-term rental accommodation to ensure policy certainty.

To enable the sector to reach its potential, The Green Paper focuses on four policy thematic areas with a specific focus under each.

The four thematic areas are:

- Evolving former policy areas: Tourism governance, safety and security management and transformation.

- Emerging policy issues: Embracing technology, crisis management, accessing the destination, quality visitor services, skills supply and employment and tourist services.

- Policy issues for targeted growth: Prioritising rural and peri-urban tourism, enhancing domestic tourism for destination resilience and destination marketing and branding.

- Sustainable growth model: Responsible tourism, knowledge management research and insights, tourism diplomacy, and tourism trade and investment.

The significance of tourism within the South African economy is widely recognised. The New Growth Path, the National Development Plan (NDP) and several State of the Nation Addresses identify the tourism sector among the core contributors to the country's medium to long-term national economic goals.

The 1996 Tourism White Paper predates many of these government frameworks, particularly the NDP, thus necessitating alignment.

The country's Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP) identifies tourism recovery as one of the priority interventions to drive the reconstruction and recovery of the economy.

The Tourism Sector's Recovery Plan also identifies the need to review the policy framework to support the sector's growth.

The gazette for public comment was published on Friday 1 September and is available at: www.gpwonline.co.za/Documents/Government/49223%201-9%20Tourism.pdf.

Any person who wishes to submit written inputs in connection with the Green Paper is invited to do so within 60 days from the date of the gazette. Submissions should be:

a) Mailed to the Department of Tourism, for attention: Mr Senzo Nkala, Private Bag x424, Pretoria, 0001

b) Delivered by hand to the Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0001

c) Emailed to TourismGreenPaper@tourism.gov.za.

The Green Paper is also available on the Department’s website at www.tourism.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 12:11

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5 September 2023

South Africa’s GDP grows by 0.6%

Location: News

South Africa's GDP grows by 0.6%

Stats SA has announced that South African real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded by 0.6% in the second quarter of 2023, which measured is from April to June.

Six industries on the supply side of the economy grew in the second quarter, with manufacturing and finance driving much of the upward momentum.

“On the demand side, the country benefitted from a sharp rise in investments in machinery and equipment, which included products related to renewable energy. Despite a decline in the overall household consumption, consumers continued to spend more on restaurants and hotels,” Stats SA said on Tuesday.

The GDP growth in the second quarter follows a 0.4% rise in the first quarter.

“Manufacturing production expanded by 2.2%, mainly pushed higher by petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products. Manufacturers in metals, metal products, machinery and equipment also recorded a good quarter, driven in part by increased demand for crude steel.

“Increased investment in South Africa’s automotive sector helped lift the production of transport equipment and motor vehicles. The finance industry edged higher by 0.7%, boosted by financial intermediation, insurance and real estate services,” Stats SA said.

After two consecutive quarters of decline, South Africa’s agriculture sector recorded a positive performance with a 4.2% rise in output, which was driven by increases in the production of field crops and horticulture products.

“Favourable weather conditions, increased cultivation and a rise in export demand provided further support. Mining looked good too, posting a second straight quarter of growth. Platinum group metals, gold, minerals classified in the category ‘other metallic minerals’ and coal helped lift the industry.

“The personal services industry was positive on the back of higher growth in education and health. The rise in general government services was mainly due to an increase in staff numbers.

“Not all industries had a good second quarter. After 18 months of consistent growth, the transport, storage and communication industry stumbled, declining by 1.9%. Transport support services were lacklustre and there were declines in land freight and road passenger transport,” Stats SA said.

The trade industry was down on the back of weaker retail and wholesale figures.

The overall decline was partially offset by increased activities in the motor trade, tourist accommodation and restaurant, catering and fast-food sectors.

“After holding its head above water for nine months, the construction industry lost steam in the second quarter. A decline in economic activity related to non-residential and residential buildings pulled the industry lower. There was a small uptick in construction works, but this was not enough to lift the industry into positive territory,” Stats SA said.

Investments in machinery and equipment

Stats SA noted that a sharp rise in investments in imported machinery and equipment – mostly for electricity infrastructure – drove gross fixed capital formation higher.

“This was supported by an increase in sales of locally produced electric motors, generators and special purpose machinery. The demand for machinery and equipment contributed to the 3.3% rise in imports. Imported products included those related to renewable energy, batteries, vegetable products, artificial resins and plastics, base metals and articles of base metals, and animal and vegetable fats and oils.

“South African exports edged higher by 0.9%, driven by increased trade in chemical products; prepared foodstuffs, beverages and tobacco; vehicles and transport equipment; mineral products and machinery and electrical equipment.

“Household consumption decreased in the second quarter as consumers cut back on a variety of goods and services. Despite the overall decline, households continued to increase their spending on restaurants and hotels, representing a seventh consecutive quarter of growth for this category,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 12:29

56 views

5 September 2023

SA to participate in SA-Uganda Investment Summit

Location: News

SA to participate in SA-Uganda Investment Summit

Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister, Nomalungelo Gina, is leading a delegation of 65 South African business representatives to a two-day Uganda – South Africa Investment and Trade Summit which started today in Kampala, Uganda.

The summit brings together trade and investment policymakers, business communities, trade support institutions, regional and multilateral organisations from Uganda and South Africa, to explore investment and trade opportunities.

The main goal is to improve bilateral trade between the two countries and to mobilise higher levels of private sector investments into priority sectors in Uganda.

The summit, which ends tomorrow, is being held at the Speke Resort in Munyonyo, Kampala.

This summit follows a business forum held in February 2023 in Pretoria on the margins of President Museveni’s State visit to South Africa.

This summit has a particular focus on agriculture and agro-processing, Information Communication and Technology, manufacturing, energy and oil and gas.

The current status of bilateral trade is that South African exports to Uganda have decreased from R2.1 billion in 2018 to to R1.7 billion in 2022, while South Africa’s imports from Uganda have increased from R102 million to R304 million during the same timeframe.

There will also be an effort to mobilise higher levels of private investments into priority sectors in Uganda, as identified under the National Development Plan of Uganda (NDP III) and therefore they will ensure that by the end of the two days, a platform for networking and investment facilitation will be created between to fast track trade and business deals. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 10:46

82 views

5 September 2023

Use Heritage Month to build unity and social cohesion

Location: News

Use Heritage Month to build unity and social cohesion

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has encouraged citizens of the province to use this year’s Heritage Month to foster social cohesion, forge unity and work to promote the country’s democratic values, as enshrined in the country’s Constitution.

The Premier made the call as South Africa marks the beginning of Heritage Month under the theme, 'Celebrating our Cultural Diversity in a Democratic South Africa', which underscores the declaration of the Constitution that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in their diversity.

Dube-Ncube said this year’s theme for Heritage Month aims to reinforce the message of building a united and prosperous nation. She said the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government fully embraces this theme and will utilise this year’s celebration to deepen social cohesion, engender solidarity amongst the different communities, and drive growth and prosperity.

“Ours is a province that boasts a rich history and is home to a number of diverse cultures and icons who have helped shape not only our province, but the world. From the founder of the AmaZulu Nation, King Shaka of Senzangakhona, to the global icon of non-violence, Mahatma Gandhi.

“Over the centuries, we have produced women and men who have changed the course of history globally. It is through embracing this diversity that our province has gained recognition as a province where the country and the world’s seminal moments are made,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier noted that over the years, the province has seen various cultures, including African, Indian, Afrikaner and English, amongst others, merge into an all-embracing KwaZulu-Natal culture that gives the province its cultural uniqueness.

“It is these various cultures that must come to the fore during this month, proving in the process, the maturity of our democracy.”

She also urged all South Africans to observe this month through events and meaningful engagements, whose aim is to celebrate and show case the provinces’ diverse cultures, forge unity and celebrate the country’s democracy.

The province will kick off its Heritage Month partnering with the Zulu Royal Household in celebrating the Royal Reed Dance (UMkhosi WoMhlanga), which will be presided over by His Majesty, King Misuzulu kaZwelithini.

The two-tiered Reed Festival will be held at Emachobeni Royal Palace in Jozini Local Municipality and at Enyokeni Royal Palace in Nongoma Local Municipality on 2 - 3 September and 9 - 10 September 2023, respectively. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 09:39

36 views

4 September 2023

Didiza to lead SA delegation to Trade and Investment Summit in Uganda

Location: News

Didiza to lead SA delegation to Trade and Investment Summit in Uganda

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, will participate in and lead the second Uganda/South Africa Trade and Investment Summit from 5 - 6 September 2023 in Kampala, Uganda.

The summit aims to encourage interaction and dialogue between various entities in the two countries, which may result in sustainable growth in trade and investment.

“The focus of the event is on the agro-industry to reflect on the importance of agriculture in the Ugandan economy, although not to the exclusion of other sectors,” the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development said.

Trade relations between the two countries have been growing until the recent slowdown as a result COVID-19 pandemic.

The department said while South Africa’s businesses are well established -- with the Forum for South African Business in Uganda (FOSABU) as an anchor to the South African business community in Uganda -- Ugandan businesses have had little success in penetrating the South African market due to the poor quality of products exported from Uganda, inadequate phytosanitary standards and high visa costs.

FOSABU is a business association that was formed in 2015. It comprises South African companies doing business in Uganda and other companies operating in Uganda that have strong linkages to South Africa.

The first edition of the Uganda-South Africa Investment and Trade Summit was held in Pretoria in February 2023, and was addressed by both South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The Presidents agreed to work together to improve the business operating environment between the two countries, including addressing all challenges affecting the private sector.

The second Uganda-South Africa Investment and Trade Summit 2023 will be held under the theme, 'Accelerating Investments and Trade between Uganda and South Africa'. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 11:01

673 views

4 September 2023

SABC urged to resolve Rugby World Cup broadcast rights matter

Location: News

SABC urged to resolve Rugby World Cup broadcast rights matter

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has urged the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) to reach an agreement with SuperSport to secure sub-licensing of broadcast rights to the highly anticipated 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“I am concerned at how millions of South Africans may be unable to watch the Rugby World Cup should the SABC not be able to broadcast matches in the tournament. My commitment is to give South Africans access to all sports codes,” the Minister said on Monday.

He made these remarks after engaging with Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele and the SABC on the 2023 Rugby World Cup broadcasting rights.

SuperSport had announced a failure to reach an agreement with the SABC on the broadcast rights to the tournament.

The Springboks, who are three-time world champions, will be participating in the 2023 Rugby World Cup taking place in France. The World Cup fixtures run from Friday, 8 September to Saturday, 28 October.

Kodwa urged the SABC to find a solution to the matter, so that the public broadcaster can be able to fulfil its mandate to cover sport of national interest.

“I am hopeful that an agreement will be reached between SABC and SuperSport. Rugby plays a critical role in nation building and social cohesion. It is important that millions of South African can watch the Springboks continuing to lift the nation at the Rugby World Cup," Kodwa said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 12:49

480 views

4 September 2023

Hawks nab over 600 suspects in 1st quarter

Location: News

Hawks nab over 600 suspects in 1st quarter

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) has during the first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year arrested at least 611 suspects who have appeared before various courts across the country.

The National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General Advocate Godfrey Lebeya, on Monday said during these arrests, the DPCI (also known as the Hawks) seized various exhibits including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.

Addressing media in Pretoria, Lebeya said of the total number of arrests made, 229 accused persons were convicted and sentenced.

“As the DPCI, we would like to present to the public that our members are hard at work in dealing with national priority offences,” Lebeya said.

Of the 229 convicted persons, 16 were sentenced for money laundering.

“Most of the arrests relate to fraud, which accounts for 203 suspects, while money laundering amassed 48 suspects. Seventy-two suspects were equally arrested for narcotics and endangered species. The remaining 288 suspects were arrested for the other 17 types of national priority crimes,” Lebeya said.

The DPCI continues to deal with those who committed crimes related to the COVID-19 Relief Fund, as coordinated at the Fusion Centre, which is housed at the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC).

According to Lebeya, as at the end of June this year, 190 suspects were secured before various courts. Of these, 64 accused persons were convicted in 49 cases.

“In this brief, I shall only highlight 30 cases which represent 4% of these 840 successes. Of these 30 cases, 19 are for arrest while 11 are for convictions.

“The signing of a new memorandum of understanding between the DPCI and South African Revenue Service (SARS) has bolstered cooperation and collaboration that promotes joint initiatives and effective operational arrangements.

“This important accord boosts the ability of the country’s law enforcement agencies to enhance corruption, contraventions of tax laws, money laundering and other financial crimes.

“Amongst the successes achieved in this quarter is 19 arrests and five convictions for tax administration offences. Over and above, five arrests and a conviction were secured for contravention of the Customs and Exercise Act,” Lebeya said.

Human trafficking

With regard to human trafficking cases, Lebeya said trafficking in persons is modern day slavery and a crime against humanity, and that South Africa has not been spared this twin-pandemic of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants.

During this reporting period, seven potential victims of trafficking in persons were rescued, while nine suspects were arrested and two life imprisonment sentences secured.

In one case, two females aged 20 and 31 were found at the home of Esther Mwanza (41). They are alleged to have been trafficked from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to South Africa, where they allegedly endured labour exploitation.

Mwanza was arrested by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Klerksdorp. She made a brief appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court for trafficking in persons.

The victims were interviewed and subsequently taken to a place of safety, which was provided by the Department of Social Development.

Lebeya said 48 suspects were arrested on drug related charges.

“The majority of these suspects were arrested by the South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) within the component Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) of the DPCI. Drugs valued at R3 642 641 782.41 were seized and five drug laboratories in Gauteng, North West and Western Cape were dismantled,” he said.

Lebeya said cash-in-transit heists continue to be a thorn in the economy of the country and that the DPCI, in collaboration with private organisations such as Cash-In-Transit Association of South Africa continue to strengthen the fight against these crimes. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 13:06

661 views

4 September 2023

Tourism, Airbnb sign MoU to grow sector

Location: News

Tourism, Airbnb sign MoU to grow sector

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between her department and Airbnb to support the continued recovery of the tourism sector and build inclusive tourism in South Africa.

“The MoU will see the Department of Tourism work closely with Airbnb to advance tourism services that are aimed at growing tourism in South Africa and creating more jobs in the sector,” De Lille said.

The MoU seeks to grow collaboration between government and the private sector, as it is “a collective responsibility to grow and enhance tourism sector”.

“As government, if we want to significantly grow tourism and its contribution to the economy and job creation, collaboration with the private sector is vital. We are delighted to be the first African Ministry of Tourism to sign a collaborative MoU with a successful global company such as Airbnb,” she said.

The Minister explained that by leveraging Airbnb's global reach and understanding of the market, the collaboration seeks to create a positive impact on local communities, travellers and the tourism industry as a whole.

“The primary goal of this collaboration is to develop a relationship between the Ministry, entity and Airbnb to harness and drive tourism domestically and internationally.

“As shared in the department’s Green paper, insufficient information is available about the unregulated short-term rental subsector, and this hampers informed policy decision making. Access to the Airbnb data can only assist in informing better decisions,” De Lille said.

As part of the MoU, the parties will have regular engagements to evaluate opportunities for strategic collaboration on driving inclusive tourism and ensuring fair and proportionate regulation of short-term rentals.

Velma Corcoran, Regional Lead: Middle East Africa at Airbnb, said they look forward to working with the Department of Tourism to help build a more inclusive and sustainable tourism economy in South Africa.

Corcoran said the Airbnb platform can help anyone, anywhere, to become a tourism entrepreneur, and that they hope to continue to break down systemic barriers to entry and enable more South Africans to participate in the sector.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with the department to develop a clear, proportionate national framework for the regulation of short-term rentals and see huge power in public and private sector collaborations. We also know from our work with the Airbnb Entrepreneurship Academy, that together, we can make a tangible difference and enable more people, in more places, to benefit from tourism,” said Corcoran.

The signing of the MoU is in line with the aims of the Tourism Sector Recovery Plan, which is key to the country’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

The Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (TSRP) was adopted by Cabinet in March 2021 to facilitate the recovery of the sector to preserve jobs and livelihoods, facilitate new job opportunities, match demand and supply, and strengthen transformation. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 13:34

573 views

4 September 2023

Rand Water Station 5 purification plant ensures Gauteng’s water security

Location: News

Rand Water Station 5 purification plant ensures Gauteng’s water security

Rand Water has been hailed for completing Phase 1 of the 150 megalitres a day (ML/d) Station 5A filtration plant on schedule.

The plant, which is one of Rand Water’s flagship projects, will bring assurance to the sustainability of water supply to the Gauteng province and surroundings.

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, joined by the Emfuleni Mayor Sipho Radebe, Rand Water Board Chairperson Ramateu Monyokolo, and Rand Water Chief Executive Sipho Mosai, have commissioned the first part of the mega water project situated at the Zuikerbotch Water Treatment Works outside Vereeniging in the Vaal.

Mchunu said there is a great need to increase infrastructure and to ensure that operation and maintenance are undertaken to existing infrastructure, and that Rand Water is doing exactly that.

The Minister commended Rand Water in its forward thinking and keeping its eye on its mandate.

“Whether it is in terms of actual water supply or the maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure, Rand Water has continued to ensure that it keeps its eye on the mandate. Those of you doubting our commitment as DWS to infrastructure development, forget it. We're ahead of the curve. It is not a matter of when, but rather where are we today,” Mchunu said.

Rand Water has built the completely new purification plant at the existing Zuikerbosch Plant, referred to as Station 5, in an effort to augment water supply, ensure sustainable water supply, and to meet current and future demands.

The Station 5 plant is divided into two phases (5A and 5B). The completed Phase 1, Station 5A, will produce 150ml/d of potable water, adding to the current available supply by Rand Water to its customers, including Gauteng municipalities, parts of Free State, Mpumalanga and North West provinces, as well as industries.

Upon completion of Phase 2 (Station 5B) at the end of 2024, the plant will add another 450 ML/d, totalling to 600ML/d of water to users.

The purification plant is part of the Rand Water's capital expenditure projects and seeks to bring more capacity to the water utility’s system to ensure water security to the provinces it supplies.

Speaking at the recent ribbon cutting to officially commission Phase 1 of the newly built Section 5A purification plant, Mchunu emphasised the need for new water infrastructure to address current and future demand of water in the province.

He said the commissioning of Station 5A is demonstrative of the department’s seriousness about increasing infrastructure capacity.

Mchunu said while the mandate of the sector was to ensure access to clean drinking water and to manage water resources, “one cannot have access to water without the proper infrastructure”.

Since 2019, the Station 5A project has created 871 job opportunities, providing employment to people with diverse skill levels, ranging from unskilled to semi-skilled, and skilled labourers.

The project has also supported more than 48 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) with small work packages from the core activities of the 26 projects.

Vision 2030 infrastructure build programme

Monyokolo said the project is part of Rand Water’s Vision 2030 Infrastructure Build Programme and that they are well within their timelines and in some instances, they are ahead.

“… This additional 150ML/d Station 5A programme ensures that there is more than enough water for all our customers and therefore consumers.

“As a board, we have a full and comprehensive understanding of the importance of infrastructure upgrading and refurbishment to ensure uninterrupted bulk water supply to our customers. As we celebrate the 120th year anniversary of our existence, we recognise and embrace inherent challenges that we continue to turn into opportunities,” Monyokolo said.

Monyokolo also noted some of the challenges faced by the water utility in the implementation of its CAPEX [capital expenditure] projects, which include population growth in its areas of supply, vandalism of infrastructure, encroachment on servitudes, quality of raw water, and non-payment of invoices by customers.

“The porous municipal water reticulation infrastructure also creates a simulated shortage. We are working hard to assist and collaborate with municipalities through the capable leadership of our Minister to mitigate this challenge.”

In February this year, the water utility launched the 210ML/d Vlakfontein Reservoir in the City of Ekurhuleni. The reservoir is post-tensioned concrete, the biggest in the world and is part of the Mapleton Booster system augmentation programme. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 13:46

353 views

4 September 2023

Fuel, paraffin and gas prices set to increase

Location: News

Fuel, paraffin and gas prices set to increase

The prices of both grades of petrol and diesel are expected to increase when the September prices come into effect.

The adjusted prices for all fuel types and gas are as follows:

Both 95 and 93 petrol are expected to go up by R1.71.
Diesel 0.05% sulphur will increase by R2.84.
Diesel 0.005% sulphur will go up by R2.76.
The price of wholesale illuminating paraffin will go up by R2.78
Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating paraffin is set to increase by R3.70.
Maximum Retail Price of LPGas is expected to rise by R2.26.

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) said many factors, including the increase in the price of Brent Crude Oil, resulted in the increases.

“High prices of petrol are as a result of low inventories and refinery outages, which affected the production of blending components used in summer grade petrol, making it more expensive to produce.

“Diesel and paraffin prices increased because of lower shipments of Russia’s Urals crude oil, which is rich in middle distillates, as well as rising demand of middle distillates ahead of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. LPGas increased because of higher prices of Propane and Butane.

“These led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 135.41 c/l, 253.42 c/l and 247.13 c/l, respectively,” the department said.

The rand’s depreciation against the dollar also played a role in the increased prices, as well as a DMRE approved 5c per litre increase in the price structure due to “accommodate the wage increase for forecourt employees, in line with the Motor Industry Bargaining Council (MIBCO) Agreement”.

The adjusted prices are expected come into effect on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 13:51

446 views

4 September 2023

Investment in climate change resilient infrastructure emphasised

Location: News

Investment in climate change resilient infrastructure emphasised

Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy, has called on leaders on the continent to urgently implement measures to improve the resilience of Africa’s infrastructure investments against the impacts of climate change.

“If the impacts of climate change are not taken into account now, there is a considerable risk that the current, and potentially the next generation of infrastructure in Africa will be locked into designs that could be inadequate for the future climate and costly or impossible to modify later,” Creecy said in Nairobi, Kenya.

Addressing the Africa Climate Summit on Monday, Creecy said climate change impacts will be genuinely felt during the life span of the planned and future infrastructure within the coming decade.

“Planning new infrastructure for climate resilience and adapting existing infrastructure to reduce risks should be a priority as there is a high probability that climate change will offset or reduce the economic and developmental benefits of these investments.”

Creecy noted the continued decline in the delivery of public climate finance in real terms for developing nations.

“Developed countries have not met the US$ 100 billion per year mobilization goal by 2020 and have indicated that this goal may potentially be met later this year (2023). The goal of doubling adaptation finance from 2019 levels by 2025 is an undertaking in paper only.

“With an estimated annual infrastructure financing requirement in the range from US$130 - 170 billion according to the African Development Bank, implementing urgent measures to improve the resilience of Africa’s infrastructure investments must become the main occupation for us as decision-makers,” the Minister said.

The Global Commission on Adaptation estimates that climate change will lead to an equivalent of 2% to 4% annual loss in gross domestic product (GDP) on the continent by 2040.

The Stern/Songwe High Level Expert Report, commissioned by the COP27 President, found that while “estimates for future loss and damage are subject to great uncertainty, but recent events suggest they could be as high as US$150–300 billion by 2030 to cope with immediate impacts and for subsequent reconstruction.”

“Various other reports demonstrate the enormous climate change needs of developing countries and how present public climate finance flows are unforthcoming, inadequate and lack in quality. In addition, the current financial architecture features an unfortunate reality where developing countries, those that have least contributed to the climate problem, continue to shoulder climate costs albeit their very limited fiscal space and constrained economies,” the Minister said.

Financing

She said African countries need a new suite of financing instruments, with a set of favourable terms and conditions that are not merely debt generators.

“Local currency lending is an imperative to support climate action in Africa. In this regard, recent efforts by the Green Climate Fund and the New Development Bank offer rays of hope. We need to urgently address the need for liquidity in fiscally constrained African countries.

“We further need to address the form of the finance available to developing countries and, in particular, put in place measures that climate finance does not lead to the increased debt burden of African and other developing countries. Credit enhancement approaches are readily available to the private sector, but the urgent reforms are needed in the public sector.

“We need access to scaled-up new and additional and predictable grant and highly concessional finance, which could be deployed effectively to create enabling environments by beginning to buy down risks and create new asset classes for clean investments that would allow for greater mobilization and leveraging of public and private finance and hence access the illusive and unseen trillions,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 14:36

181 views

4 September 2023

DPWI takes lead in hijacked buildings investigation

Location: News

DPWI takes lead in hijacked buildings investigation

The Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure has been tasked with conducting a government-wide investigation into hijacked buildings in the country’s metros.

This comes after the meeting of an inter-ministerial committee, which is looking into last week’s Marshalltown disaster in which 76 people perished in a fire in a hijacked State building.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala will lead the task of identifying all hijacked buildings in the country, as well as indicate what should be done with all those properties.

As the department responsible for State property management, the department was already in the process of identifying misappropriated State properties within its own asset register.

Out of 29 000 buildings in the department’s asset register throughout the country, the department has embarked on a process to recover some 1 260 properties that have been flagged as being illegally occupied under Operation Bring Back.

This includes:

- Recovery of stolen or illegally transferred properties and hijacked buildings.

- Regularisation of occupancy in properties due to legacy housing policies.

- Further investigation and identification of more properties that are illegally occupied.

The department launched Operation Bring Back to operationalise investigations and recovery of those assets that are illegally occupied or stolen.

The department will intensify the operation in all metros and municipalities throughout the country.

“Each metro or municipality will have to indicate how many properties it has on its asset register, the state of those assets, what they are used for and its current status. Depending on the status of those properties, the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure will recommend what should be done,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.

Among the current decisions of the department’s Operation Bring Back, a nationwide call is to be made for individuals and institutions to avail themselves for amnesty and to regularise their occupation of properties in line with the applicable laws of the country.

These properties could be sold to the individuals concerned, be leased or be used as a rental stocks.

“This intervention by the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure will include a forensic investigation of the asset register and the identification of illegally occupied properties without amnesty and may lead to the institution of criminal prosecutions and/or expropriation of unclaimed properties,” the department said.

The department will, as a matter of urgency, commission multidisciplinary built environment consultants to investigate the structural, civil, building, electrical, mechanical and safety integrity of the identified buildings and make recommendations on how to rejuvenate the CBDs of all metros and municipalities. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 13:56

157 views

4 September 2023

Largest CHIETA smart skills centre opens in rural KZN

Location: News

Largest CHIETA smart skills centre opens in rural KZN

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has commended the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) on the successful opening of the Babanango SMART Skills Centre, which will provide tech-enabled learning programmes.

Nzimande unveiled the third and largest CHIETA SMART Skills Centre last week. It forms part of CHIETA’s efforts to bridge the digital skills divide and accelerate the development of basic digital skills in rural communities.

The centre will provide tech-enabled learning programmes, including virtual and augmented reality, robotics and the Internet of Things, among others.

Speaking at the launch, Nzimande said the Babanango area was specifically identified for the establishment of the SMART Skills Centre because it is in a deeply rural area of KwaZulu-Natal, without any internet connectivity.

Nzimande said the centre will benefit the local community, including learners, students, job seekers and businesspeople. It will also provide youth with digital skills that will help to meet the demands of industries, which rely on technology to grow their enterprises.

“The centre will advance skills development for the unemployed youth by offering programmes based on various technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), software development, data science and mobile repairs.

“Through this centre, our unemployed youth will have access to various online learning platforms to start up successful and scalable data-driven commercial businesses that will provide technological solutions. This centre we also help us bridge the digital skills divide between urban and rural communities,” Nzimande said.

The SMART Skills Centre is part of government’s bigger plans to revolutionise digital skills development in South Africa.

The skills centres will further cater for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) development, as they play a crucial role in the growth of the economy. SMMEs make up 34% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which was valued at $358 billion in 2019.

Nzimande said through the National Development Plan (NDP), government has recognised the importance of SMMEs for job creation, innovation and sustainability of the country.

“One of the goals outlined in the NDP was for 90% of new jobs to be created through SMMEs by 2030. This is against the backdrop that our country continues to struggle with the burgeoning problem of unemployment, particularly in its highly youthful population.

“I am more than certain that this project will certainly give our youth and the community at large the opportunity to get or create employment because digital skills are required in most occupations in the 21st century. I am also hoping that this centre will be a catalyst to attract other developmental projects and programmes,” Nzimande said.

The Minister announced that due to the successful implementation of CHIETA SMART Skills Centre, the department has taken a decision to expand this project in all nine provinces of the country.

CHIETA CEO, Yershen Pillay, commended the partners who were involved in this initiative, including the department, Mthashana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college and Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA), among others.

Pillay noted that this is one of the biggest smart skills centres in the country, which has, among others, cell phone repair skills, and will also provide free data to the community of Babanango. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 12:40

199 views

4 September 2023

Spotlight on inner city housing challenge in fire aftermath

Location: News

Spotlight on inner city housing challenge in fire aftermath

The fatal Usindiso Building fire in Johannesburg last week has highlighted the need to resolve South Africa’s inner city housing challenge and root out “rampant criminality” in these areas, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

At least 74 people perished in the fire, with scores others left injured.

“This tragedy has brought to the fore the need to resolve the challenge of housing in our cities. Even though millions of houses have been built since the advent of democracy, providing decent homes for over 14 million people, the demand for housing continues to grow.

“The movement of large numbers of people into our major centres is fuelling the growth of informal settlements and placing further strain on infrastructure and services,” the President said in his weekly newsletter.

The President said rooting out criminality in accommodation in the inner city is a priority.

“As a starting point, municipal authorities across the country dealing with inner city decay need to redouble their efforts to revitalise these areas, use regulatory and legislative provisions to safeguard human life, and hold landlords, whose premises have become headquarters of criminal activity, accountable.

“We have heard about progress in some areas. It was reported that last year, for example, the City of Johannesburg managed to return some 47 ‘hijacked’ buildings to their lawful owners. Once rehabilitated, these buildings could provide safe and decent low-cost housing for the poor,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President emphasised that similar to most South Africans, people living in buildings like the Usindiso Building, want a decent quality of life.

“They want a safe place to live close to work opportunities and services. We need clean, safe, liveable and vibrant inner cities that attract people to live, work or study. We want our inner cities to attract businesses and investment.

“We cannot allow certain parts of our cities to suffer chronic neglect and become ‘no-go areas’ because of rampant criminal activity.

“We have to obey the law and observe regulations that exist for our safety and for the safety of others. We need to work with officials seeking to strike a balance between the rights of tenants and regard for their safety and wellbeing. Above all, we need to report acts of criminality and not be party to them,” he said.

In the aftermath of the fire, tensions between the local authorities and civil society were raised.

The President called on all parties to work together.

“We have a shared responsibility, as government, business and civil society, to do everything we can to provide support and protection. Let us work with, and not against, each other.

“Let this tragedy compel us to work much harder to give effect to the human dignity that is the right of us all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 09/04/2023 - 11:45

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