SA News

22 August 2024

Support for Riverlands displaced families continues

Location: News

Support for Riverlands displaced families continues

Cabinet says support for displaced families, whose homes were flooded when the walls of a dam collapsed in the Swartland Municipality in the Western Cape, continues.

This comes after the collapse of the retention walls of the Riverlands Dam on 8 August 2024.

At a media briefing on Thursday, following Cabinet's meeting on Wednesday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said water levels have now receded enough for residents, who were earlier evacuated, to return to their homes.

“However, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the two available community centres remain open for residents who prefer not to return home immediately,” Ntshavheni said.

READ | Emergency work on the fourth Riverlands dam

Cabinet commended the urgent intervention by the Department of Human Settlements to assist displaced families.

Last week, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi dispatched an emergency housing team to urgently assist displaced families whose homes were flooded when the walls of a dam collapsed.

Kubayi said the ongoing assessment will inform what interventions were required for all the affected households.

The Minister highlighted there are four categories of interventions provided by the department and these include restoration, relocation, rebuilding and repairs.

Meanwhile, as the country’s rainy season approaches in the northern part of the country, Cabinet has called on municipalities to ensure storm-water drains are cleaned and free from blockages, to ensure the smooth flow of water when it rains. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:29

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22 August 2024

Electricity Regulation Amendment Act ushers in competitive, sustainable electricity sector

Location: News

Electricity Regulation Amendment Act ushers in competitive, sustainable electricity sector

Cabinet says the signing into law of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act by President Cyril Ramaphosa creates a new era of a competitive and sustainable electricity sector that meets South Africa’s energy needs.

“The amendments enhance energy security by drawing in more participants into energy production.

“The country’s energy security has also been further strengthened with an additional 2 500 megawatts of electricity that will be fed into the national grid at the end of September 2024,” Cabinet said in a statement.

The additional capacity, which will come from Medupi Unit 4, Kusile Unit 6 and Koeberg Unit 2, will place the country firmly on track to reach the milestone of 150 days, in two days, without load shedding.

“This milestone of 148 days without load shedding has been achieved with the reduction in the use of OCGT, resulting in R10.21 billion savings in the cost of diesel compared to the same period last year,” Cabinet said.

Cabinet has also noted the withdrawal of the determination for the procurement of new nuclear energy generation capacity by the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, to allow for further public consultation.

Cabinet affirmed that nuclear energy remains part of the country’s energy mix as it offers a low-carbon, reliable source of electricity that can contribute significantly to the country’s energy security and climate goals.

Ports infrastructure

On the country's ports infrastructure, Cabinet has welcomed the launch of five out of seven tugboats, which is part of the Transnet National Ports Authority’s fleet renewal programme. This, to tackle the challenges of congestion at the country’s ports in line with the Freight Logistics Roadmap to restore the efficiency and competitiveness in SA's ports and rail.

READ | R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability

“The tugboats, which are equipped with the latest technology and improved bollard pull capacity, will help reduce vessel turnaround times by assisting in the faster movement of cargo and container ships through our major ports.

"The tugboats will also assist in preventing accidents by guiding ships through congested areas, thus improving port safety,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:36

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22 August 2024

Cabinet welcomes outcomes of the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes outcomes of the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit

Cabinet has welcomed the outcomes of the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Harare, Zimbabwe, on 17 August 2024.

The Summit had amongst others, urged Member States to implement the SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal to the El Niño-induced drought and floods, and to continue monitoring weather and climate risks, including the forecasted La Niña event, and develop contingency measures to mitigate the impact of disasters.

The Summit also took note of the coming into effect of the Agreement establishing the Tripartite Free Trade Area among the COMESA, the East African Community and SADC which will provide opportunities for SADC members to tap into an expanded market of 26 countries with a population of about 700 million and a gross domestic product of US$1 trillion.

“On the Israel war against Palestinian, the Summit noted with concern the continuing relentless attack on civilians in Palestine which has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property and deteriorating humanitarian conditions and called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and the commencement of talks to bring a lasting solution to the conflict,” Cabinet said.

Southern African Railways Association (SARA) Conference

Cabinet has also welcomed the deliberations during the 13th SARA Conference to uplift the rail sector within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) with an aim of facilitating greater trade within the region and take advantage of trade opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area.

Cabinet said a thriving SADC rail industry requires greater rail investment and collaboration within the SADC region to address its many challenges.

“The region’s rail industry has over the years been faced with challenges such as crime, theft and vandalism.

“South Africa is committed to doing its part to create an efficient, connected and modern rail sector, and is implementing policy and interventions, such as the Freight Logistics Roadmap, to revive, support and modernise the capacity and competence of our railways,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:47

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22 August 2024

SA’s Mpox disease under control, Cabinet

Location: News

SA’s Mpox disease under control, Cabinet

Cabinet has moved to reassure South Africans that the Mpox outbreak is under control.

The disease has now been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Addressing the media during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni reported that to date, the total number of positive cases recorded in South Africa stands at 24.

The cases include three deaths, 19 recoveries and two active cases undergoing home isolation.

“Of these, 12 cases were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape,” Ntshavheni said.

Cabinet has called on members of the public to play their part by supporting the government’s efforts to prevent the spread of Mpox by remaining vigilant and exercising non-pharmaceutical interventions such as heightened personal hygiene to prevent further transmission.

“Cabinet supports the call by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as the African Union (AU) Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response for all partners to collaborate closely with the Africa CDC to ensure that there is appropriate support from the international community, guaranteeing equitable access to medical countermeasures, including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines,” the Minister said.

READ | Mpox is under control: Department of Health

Tackling foot-and-mouth disease

Cabinet has also noted major progress made in tackling foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Local Municipalities in the Eastern Cape, with the last clinical case reported in mid-July.

Ntshavheni said animal movements in and out of the affected regions continues to be monitored to prevent the spread of the disease to unaffected areas, in terms of the Disease Management Area, and the transportation of livestock from one place to another [which] requires a transport permit from a local state veterinary office, to prevent the spread of the disease.

READ | Progress made in management of foot and mouth disease

“The 30 cattle farms that have tested positive for the disease have been placed under quarantine, and vaccination efforts continue to control the spread of infection and reduce the severity of clinical symptoms.

“Additionally, pre-emptive vaccination has been carried out on a further 37 farms identified as high risk due to their proximity to infected areas. In total, over 92 000 cattle and nearly 600 sheep across 67 farms have been vaccinated,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:53

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22 August 2024

Hats off to a winning nation

Location: News

Hats off to a winning nation

Cabinet has praised the nation’s sportsmen and women, who continue to proudly fly the flag high in various sporting codes around the world, and further unite the country.

This follows a series of remarkable victories recently, for South African athletes on the global stage.

“These victories demonstrated the power of sport to unite and transcend all boundaries.

“Cabinet encourages South Africans to use unifying moments as an opportunity to reach out to fellow South Africans to build the society that we want to live in,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said during a post Cabinet media briefing, on Thursday.

The Springboks, South Africa's rugby world champions, defeated Australia for the second time at the weekend, maintaining their unbeaten record in the Rugby Championship.

In Perth, Dricus du Plessis defended his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight title with a stunning win over Nigeria’s Israel Adesanya.

The Proteas continued with the winning streak by defeating the West Indies in the second cricket test in Guyana, clinching the series 1-0.

Meanwhile, Team SA made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing 1 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze medals, doubling their medal tally from the 2021 Tokyo Games.

“This achievement will live long in our collective memories,” Ntshavheni said.

She further celebrated the South African relay team -- Bayanda Walaza, Bradley Nkoana, Shaun Maswanganyi and Akani Simbine -- for winning silver in the men's 4x100m relay final, setting a new African record of 37.57 seconds.

Additionally, Jo-Ane van Dyk earned a silver medal in the women's javelin event. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:09

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22 August 2024

Hop aboard the health train

Location: News

Hop aboard the health train

Residents of Tembisa and surrounding areas turned up in their numbers today for free health services offered by the Phelophepha Train.

Thulo Letsoalo, a mother of three, told SAnews that she felt she should take advantage of the train services, as she cannot afford to go to specialists.

Letsoalo said over the past few years, she has been unwell, suffering from various ailments.

“I came here this morning just before 6am and I am confident that I am going to be assisted. I thank our government for bringing the Phelophepha services to us, as some of us cannot afford to pay for specialists,” Letsoalo told SAnews on Thursday.

Clive Tsheka, who has been having problems with his eye sight, commended the services provided by the healthcare train.

“I have been struggling with my eyes for years. I last visited an optometrist when I was still working and after that, I could not afford it anymore. I am happy that our government has brought free services to us,” Tsheka said.

The Phelophepha Train, which is currently stationed at Oakmoor train station in Gauteng, is Transnet’s flagship Corporate Social Investment project, which started in 1994 as a three-coach eye clinic. It operated successfully between 1995 and 2009.

Due to its reach and success around the country in providing eye care to the country’s most vulnerable communities in rural areas, Transnet decided to add other critical services to the first train, such as nursing, dentistry and an on-board pharmacy.

Over the years, Phelophepha Trains have expanded their service offering to include education/awareness/testing and screening for cancer (cervical, prostate and breast), and wellness for chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.

The Department of Public Enterprises Acting Director-General, Jacky Molisane, told SAnews that the provision of healthcare is a crucial element to development at community level.

“We are bringing services at grassroots level, providing comprehensive services free of charge. People are given services such as dentistry and other services, free of charge. This shows that government cares for its people,” Molisane said.

She commended the hard working men and women, who provide healthcare on the train in a professional manner.

“This shows that our government is responsive and caring,” she said.

Senior Manager responsible for Health Initiatives at Transnet Foundation, Shamona Kandia, said through the Phelophepha Train, the Transnet Foundation is able to give back to communities.

“The Phelophepha Train has, for the past 30 years, been providing healthcare services to communities. Today, we here in Tembisa as part of Transnet's schedule of bringing healthcare services to the people,” Kandia said.

She said Transnet has been supporting government to provide healthcare services to communities.

The Transnet Foundation’s two healthcare trains, Phelophepa I and II, are designed to provide basic medical help and education.

Each train has a permanent staff of 22 healthcare professionals, including nurses, healthcare educators, opticians and dentists. The trains also carry managers, translators and security staff. Local workers are hired on a temporary basis.

Since the beginning of the Phelophepa programme, the trains have reached many people, changing lives and bringing healing and healthcare education to communities in great need of care.

The Phelophepha Train healthcare services form part of build-up events for the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo, which is taking place on Friday, 23 August, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality at Tsakane Stadium. President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to interact with communities and stakeholders in the metro.

Themed: "Leave No One Behind”, the Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.

At an event at a community hall, locals, especially those in need, were given wheelchairs, walking sticks and hygiene packs. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:14

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22 August 2024

A nation’s health, is a nation’s wealth

Location: News

A nation's health, is a nation's wealth

South Africa’s health system is too essential to development to be weakened by mismanagement, funding crises, and other problems.

“We expect all stakeholders to bring solutions and work with the Departments of Health and Science and Innovation to implement them,” said Acting President Paul Mashatile on Thursday.

The Acting President was speaking at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where he presided over the signing of the second Presidential Health Compact, an initiative established by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2019.

The health compact is a framework for cooperation between critical sectors and stakeholders to strengthen the health system and monitors and evaluates preparations for implementing the National Health Insurance (NHI).

The stakeholders include government, business, labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions to challenges in the national health system.

Its pillars range from the development of human resources, improving access to medicine, vaccines and health products, upgrading infrastructure and private sector engagement.

It also zooms in on quality healthcare, public sector financial management improvements, governance and leadership, community engagements, and information systems to pandemic preparedness.

The Acting President told delegates present that implementation was the foremost priority of the country's seventh administration.

“Effective policy implementation means we can take the right actions and follow through with the plans, leading to successful outcomes. I have full confidence that implementation is the priority of all of us gathered here today.

“On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, it is my privilege to sign the second Presidential Health Compact today.”

He said he believed that a healthy nation is more economically productive and prosperous.

“A healthy population enjoys higher life expectancy, better quality of life and overall wellbeing. As a result, providing quality healthcare is of the utmost importance to all of us,” he added.

Universal healthcare coverage

He said Africa is committed to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of “ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all at all ages”.

“This is a bold commitment to achieve universal health coverage. It is a commitment to provide access to affordable medicines and vaccines for all. If our nation’s health is truly to be our nation’s wealth, we must fix our healthcare system.”

He said fixing the healthcare system will effectively protect the population against public health emergencies, such as HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, or Mpox.

The Acting President also outlined challenges that prevent government from providing decent and quality healthcare to all South Africans.

Lack of funding and collaboration

He also touched on healthcare funding challenges due to budget cuts and a constrained fiscal environment, compounded by inefficiencies, mismanagement and corruption in resource allocation.

However, the Acting President said budgeting in the health sector is steadily improving to ensure a more equitable allocation of resources.

“Less money is being lost to litigation. This is thanks to the hard work of the Health Sector Anti-Corruption Forum, which continues to expedite prosecutions and recover stolen funds.”

With greater collaboration, he said the resources and capabilities of both the public and private sectors can be brought to bear to serve those who need healthcare most.

However, some progress has been made as well with 149 new primary healthcare facilities being completed by November 2023.

In addition, 30 new hospitals are either opened or under construction.

The Acting President also took the time to applaud the private sector for the crucial role it plays in strengthening health systems.

“Our experience with COVID-19 showed how we could deepen public-private partnerships. With greater collaboration, the resources and capabilities of both the public and private sectors can be brought to bear to serve those who need healthcare most,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:43

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22 August 2024

Good news for local meat producers

Location: News

Good news for local meat producers

The South African Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mogobo Magabe, says the lifting of the 21-year import ban of South African meat products by Saudi Arabia has opened a lucrative market for local meat producers.

Ambassador Magabe was speaking during the virtual Outward Selling Mission to Saudi Arabia that was hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, South African Embassy, Saudi Arabia Food and Drug Authority, South African National Halaal Authority, and the Red Meat Producers Organisation.

Over 250 people attended Thursday’s session that was held under the theme: “Unlocking Trade Opportunities through Collaboration”

“The lifting of the ban was one of the strategic outcomes of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he held constructive and fruitful engagements with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman. The two leaders signed fifteen agreements that included collaboration in agriculture, mining and tourism.

“It is an opportune time for the South African meat producers to take advantage of the lifting of the ban and export their products to the Kingdom. This can contribute in growing our economy, and strengthening our bilateral economic relations with Saudi Arabia,” Magabe said.

READ | The dtic to host virtual outward selling mission to Saudi Arabia

The Chief Director of Export Promotion and Marketing at the dtic, Ms Zanele Sanni, encouraged South African companies to utilise the virtual session to market their respective products to potential Saudi buyers with the aim of concluding sustainable export contracts that would increase trade between the two countries.

“As government, we are mandated to support local industries to enhance their manufacturing capacity and find suitable export markets for their products through strategic mechanisms like these,” Sanni said.

“We are committed to enhancing bilateral economic ties with Saudi Arabia. In recent years, both countries have had high-level political and business exchanges, leading to the lifting of the 21-year ban on South African meat exports to Saudi Arabia. This has opened up the substantial Saudi Arabian market to South African producers,” she said.

She expressed South Africa’s appreciation to the Saudi authorities for having already approved twelve South African companies to export beef meat to Saudi Arabia, and seven companies for lamb and mutton meat products.

“This demonstrates the high standards met by South African companies. It also confirms that the meat-producing sector in South Africa is highly developed and strategically positioned to meet the demand of the Saudi Arabian market,” Sanni noted.

The Chief Director of Animal Production and Health at the Department of Agriculture, Dr Botlhe Modisane, said Saudi Arabia provided a high potential market for South African exporters to tap into, in terms of both fresh or chilled beef meat as well as frozen beef products.

“Saudi Arabia currently accounts for about one percent of agricultural exports from South Africa,” Modisane said.

South Africa anticipates to expand its export market share with Saudi Arabia given the signing of the recent trade agreements.

Saudi Arabia is a net importer of beef. Its imports of frozen beef and fresh or chilled meat imports recorded approximately 71% and 90% growth rates respectively.

The session was also addressed by representatives of the South African National Halaal Authority (SANHA), Hammid Mulla and of the Red Meat Abattoir Association, Dr Gerhard Neethling. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:48

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22 August 2024

Cabinet approves establishment of small business advisory body

Location: News

Cabinet approves establishment of small business advisory body

Cabinet has approved the establishment of an advisory body within the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) that will ensure representation and promotion of the interest of small enterprises.

The establishment of an advisory body is prescribed by the National Small Enterprise Act, 1996 (Act 102 of 1996), as amended.

Briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the establishment of an advisory body is to ensure representation and promotion of the interest of small enterprises as contemplated in the National Strategy for the Development and Promotion of Small Enterprises in South Africa.

“The primary function of the advisory body will be to advise the Minister [of the DSBD] on broad areas that affect small enterprise growth, including national standards pertaining to small enterprise development and regulation.

“The advisory body will provide government with evidence-based expert advice on the functioning of various aspects of the small enterprise support ecosystem to enable more effective policy reforms, legislative amendments, and design of interventions to support micro, small and medium enterprises and cooperatives,” Ntshavheni said at Thursday’s briefing.

Aeronautical and Marine Search and Rescue Bill

Meanwhile, Cabinet has also approved the publication of the Aeronautical and Marine Search and Rescue (AMSAR) Bill of 2024 for public comment.

The Minister said the bill seeks to amend the South African Maritime and Aeronautic Act, 2002 (Act 44 of 2002) which has become outdated.

“The bill aims to ensure the safety of people in the event of aeronautical and maritime search and rescue incidents. The bill further seeks to align the national AMSAR system with international standards and trends.

“The bill will strengthen the AMSAR system to boost the growth of aviation and maritime related industries and will contribute to economic growth,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:19

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22 August 2024

President Ramaphosa to undertake State Visit to China

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to undertake State Visit to China

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China from 2-5 September 2024, to further strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries.

This visit follows President Xi Jinping’s fourth State Visit to South Africa in August 2023.

China is South Africa’s largest trading partner with bilateral trade standing at US$34 billion in 2023, made up of exports totalling US$12 billion and imports at US$22 billion.

READ | SA and China strengthen political, trade relations

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday China had also been a major contributor to South Africa’s investment drive and is the country's largest source of foreign direct investment.

“A number of important agreements are expected to be concluded during the State Visit, including a Framework Agreement on Development Cooperation, the trade balance and market access expansion,” Ntshavheni said during a media briefing to outline the outcomes of Cabinet's meeting on Wednesday.

A South African delegation will also participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) which will take place from 4-6 September 2024.

FOCAC is multilateral coordination mechanism between Chinese and African countries, and it is viewed as a cooperation platform within the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative which is China’s global infrastructure development strategy. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:49

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22 August 2024

Cabinet calls on men to sign pledge against GBVF

Location: News

Cabinet calls on men to sign pledge against GBVF

Cabinet has reiterated its call on South African men to join the initiative by President Cyril Ramaphosa to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by signing the virtual pledge to take a decisive stand against the scourge.

President Ramaphosa launched the call to action by signing the pledge alongside men from all sectors of society in Pofadder, Northern Cape, during the 2024 Women's Day celebration on 9 August.

READ | President speaks out on gender-based violence

Briefing media on the outcomes of the Cabinet Meeting in Pretoria on Thursday, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said by signing the pledge, men commit to be part of the solution by maintaining positive behaviour and attitudes, and to take responsibility for their actions.

“It also commits men to never raise a hand against a woman, to treat women as equals, respect their rights, and to treat them with dignity. Managing GBVF as a collective will result in healthier, safer and more peaceful communities in which women and children can thrive,” Ntshavheni said.

The virtual pledge can be signed at www.stateofthenation.gov.za/endGBVF

Cabinet has also commended the opening of the 65th Centre at the Mitchells Plain Hospital in Cape Town earlier this week, to support victims of GBVF.

Ntshavheni said government’s establishment of the Thuthuzela Care Centres across the country is a response to the urgent need for prevention, response and support for victims of violence, especially women and children.

Concern over teenage pregnancies

Cabinet has further urged society and parents to help solve the challenge of adolescent pregnancies, by reporting anyone who engages in sex with a minor (a child under the age of 16) as it is a criminal offence.

This follows concern over the alarming statistics of adolescent pregnancies, where children as young as 10 years of age are prematurely becoming parents.

“If the country does not work together to address this challenge of teenage pregnancies, women and young girls will continue to be trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, lack of educational and economic prospects,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 13:04

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22 August 2024

Basic Education sets record straight on school feeding

Location: News

Basic Education sets record straight on school feeding

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has moved to set the record straight following recent allegations regarding the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP).

In a statement, Director General Mathanzima Mweli, explained that the delay in the department's response was due to discussions between himself and DBE Minister Siviwe Gwarube.

Mweli refuted claims made in the Sunday Times article of 18 August 2024, titled, "Gwarube halts R10bn school food tender", stating that the article contained “numerous inaccuracies, fabrications, and falsehoods”.

He emphasised that the DBE did not publish the NSNP tender "surreptitiously" or during a period when the department lacked a Minister. The tender was published on 22 July 2024 after the new administration had taken office.

“The DBE rejects the suggestion that it surreptitiously published the NSNP tender “at a time when it had no Minister,” said Mweli.

The tender was published on 22 July 2024, which was several weeks after the assumption of office of the incoming administration,” the Director-General said.

Mweli also dismissed the notion that the modernisation of the NSNP was concocted for corrupt purposes. He clarified that the process began in July 2023, involving extensive discussions within the Heads of Education Committee (HEDCOM) and the Council of Education Ministers (CEM), with the final model being adopted in early 2024.

“The assertion that the management of the DBE concocted the modernization scheme for corrupt ends is also rejected. The DBE initiated the process for the modernization of the NSNP in July 2023.

“From a governance point of view, this matter was extensively processed by the Heads of Education Committee (HEDCOM) on various occasions during 2023 and working with the Council of Education Ministers (CEM) as the final model for the modernization was adopted by council in early 2024.

“Extensive records regarding the aforementioned remain available for scrutiny. The issuing of the final terms of reference (TOR) for the tender was thus based on the extensive processing of the modernization project by the relevant mandating structures of the basic education sector and not by the management of the DBE as the article alleges,” Mweli said.

The Director General emphasized that the DBE followed all legal procedures and consulted with the National Treasury and a Senior Counsel to ensure compliance with the law.

“The DBE is convinced that the process it initiated is lawful in every respect and this has been confirmed by very senior and experienced officials from National Treasury in addition to the advise of Senior Counsel,” Mweli said.

Mweli addressed concerns about the alleged centralisation of the NSNP, explaining that the modernisation aims to maximise government purchasing power and improve the quality of meals for learners.

The programme, he noted, has been underfunded for years, and the modernization seeks to better support poor children, particularly in the wake of increased demand after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The rationale of the modernization project is to ensure that the state maximizes its buying power by creating a mechanism to afford maximum benefits from economies of scale. This would enable government to get better value for money and by so doing improve the quality and quantity of the plate for our children.

“In terms of the conditional grant framework of the NSNP only quintiles 1 - 3 schools (the poorest schools) qualify for the NSNP. This article including those who seem to support it fail to place the learner at the centre of the modernisation as we have done but rather elect to elevate the interest of other parties to supersede those of the learner,” Mweli said.

The Director-General said this programme is one of the oldest initiatives of the democratic government initiated to deal with poverty alleviation among children and the DBE’s attempt at modernising the programme is intended to advance this objective.

Mweli further rejected the claim that the tender would be awarded to a single entity, calling it "mischief-making" and highlighting that the modernisation model includes provisions for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and smallholder farmers as part of a Local Economic Development (LED) focus.

The initiative aims to create over 30 000 sustainable jobs and support thousands of small businesses.

“The Department of Basic Education believes that the modernisation of the NSNP is an important initiative to ensure the optimisation of the social wage, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living for the poor which is in line with strategic priority Number 2 of the 7th administration,” he said.

In conclusion, Mweli expressed concern over the state of investigative journalism in the country and urged reporters to focus on the real story behind the modernisation of the NSNP.

The closing date for the NSNP modernisation bid has been extended from 15 August to 29 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 09:28

1336 views

22 August 2024

DPSA Minister calls for “mission oriented” approach to public service innovation

Location: News

DPSA Minister calls for "mission oriented" approach to public service innovation

Public Service and Administration Minister, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, has called for the adoption of a mission oriented perspective that embraces complex challenges with diverse solutions.

“The key term in this theme is 'mission', which therefore means that our efforts must transition from the outdated, siloed approaches that address singular problems with singular solutions.

"We must strive for a mission oriented perspective. This mission orientated approach must embrace complex challenges with a range of solutions,” Buthelezi said.

The Minister was delivering the keynote address at the 18th CPSI Public Sector Innovation Conference being held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Wednesday.

The two-day conference, hosted by the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI), is being held under the theme: “Accelerating Transformation through Mission Oriented Innovation”. It is being attended by at least 350 delegates, 60 System Developers and more than 15 speakers.

The conference serves as a critical platform that will effectively advance the creation of a government-wide enabling environment required for innovation to thrive.

The objective of the conference includes exposing government officials and strategic partners, such as the youth, civil society and academia, to robust engagements and discussions around international trends and topical issues on public sector innovation and its unparalleled potential.

The conference is also aimed at presenting an ideal opportunity to assess the role and impact of mission oriented innovation as a tool for enabling the public sector to meet its targets of, amongst others, tackling poverty, unemployment and inequality in order to achieve Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It further aims to explore key elements for successful implementation and sustenance of missions to enhance service delivery, facilitate the sharing of innovative perspectives and practices that respond to government priorities for replication and mainstreaming, and demonstrate how high impact, award winning projects have positively impacted on service delivery.

Buthelezi told the conference that the term "mission" will guide their path as they address issues within the public service.

He said this approach resonates deeply with him, his office and the entire public service because every government department has its mission, which is guided by the UN SDGs, the African Unions’ Agenda 2063, the National Development Plan (NDP) and government's priorities, as outlined in the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP 2024-2029).

With a clear mission, a set vision, and aligned goals, the Minister emphasised that government is committed to driving inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and addressing the high cost of living.

“Most importantly, we aim to build a capable, ethical and developmental State.

“This conference arrives at a crucial time. As we implement the 7th Administration’s Medium-Term Development Plan, aligning our work with a mission oriented approach will help us confront public service challenges effectively. While our term is limited to five years, we must strive to achieve ambitious goals swiftly.

“Time is of the essence, and our mission timeline should deliver results within the first two years. Though this is a significant challenge, I am confident that with the expertise [we have], we can accomplish remarkable results quickly,” he said.

Room for innovation

The Minister told the conference that the importance of innovation in improving service delivery cannot be overstated.

“With the CPSI at the core of government innovation, we can make a substantial impact in addressing service delivery backlogs and delays that undermine public trust in government,” he said.

He further emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating that isolated work within government departments must come to an end.

“The days of isolated work within government departments must end. We cannot have some departments advancing while others lag behind. It is unacceptable that service quality varies based on location.

“Our mission is to align Cabinet with our department’s mission, driven by the CPSI, to accelerate transformation through innovation in the public sector. Innovation must start at home, beginning with the Department of Public Service and Administration. We should use our department as a testing ground for new ideas before broader implementation,” he said.

Buthelezi called for the acceleration of all innovations and a close monitoring of their implementation.

He said the goal is to lead in public sector innovation by adopting a more integrated approach to addressing complex challenges. This, he said, will ensure that South Africans have a government that delivers effective service and a public sector dedicated to providing high quality services.

Buthelezi highlighted that historical innovations like the CAT scan (that now saves millions around the world), the Dolosse (which holds back ocean swells at harbours), the Kreepy Krauly (a system which cleans millions of pools around the world), and the first heart transplant in Cape Town are a reminder of the impact of creative solutions born from dedication to solving problems.

“By emulating these pioneers, we can achieve great things through collaborative problem solving. Dr Christiaan Barnard’s success with the first heart transplant was a result of teamwork and collaboration. Similarly, our mission to enhance service delivery through innovation cannot succeed in isolation.

“Collaboration with the private sector and civil society is crucial for sustainable solutions to poverty, inequality and unemployment. Although no single solution will address all issues, many innovations from public servants may offer answers to our challenges,” the Minister said.

Buthelezi declared the conference a success, calling for joint effort to ensure that government serves all people effectively. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 11:18

120 views

22 August 2024

Young perfumer’s sweet smell of success

Location: News

Young perfumer’s sweet smell of success

By Khanyisile Rasmeni

Phumulile Mkhonza of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga is growing as a perfumer and revolutionising the African fragrance industry.

Mkhonza is the owner of PSD Scent Perfumes, a business that she started in 2019 but only registered in 2022.

It specialises in high quality personal care products including perfumes for men and women, body lotions, body butters, tissue oils, home diffusers, and car air-fresheners.

Mkhonza enrolled for a three-month perfume-making course while studying at the University of Johannesburg for a degree in political science.

“I decided to launch my own perfume brand due to my love for perfume making. I registered the business while I was still employed. In August 2023, I decided to resign from my job and focus solely on my business,” she said.

The 31-year-old Mkhonza said she has distributors across the country who buy her products in bulk and resell them. Her footprint also spans across three African countries including Swaziland, Mozambique and Nigeria.
Mkhonza was guided by the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) to start exporting her products beyond South African borders.

“I was able to establish relationships with other entrepreneurs based in these countries through the entrepreneurship development programmes [offered by Seda] that I have been part of,” she said.

In 2022, she received R671 000 from the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier’s Youth Development Fund Programme.

She further received financial assistance from Seda to purchase assets for the business in 2024.

Her business currently employs eight people.

The entrepreneur also holds an honours and master’s degrees in public management and governance.

For more information, contact PSD Scent Perfumes on 064 505 4838, or on WhatsApp at 072 060 6093 or on email at info@psdscent.co.za and www.psdscent.co.za.

You can visit the Mpumalanga Office of the Premier website at www.mpumalanga.gov.za or call 013 766 0000/2473. Visit Seda by logging on to www.seda.org.za or call 087 158 7991.

*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele

Janine
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 10:05

220 views

22 August 2024

National health lab now fully operational after cyber attack

Location: News

National health lab now fully operational after cyber attack

Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, announced on Wednesday that the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) operations have been fully restored following a cyber attack in June this year.

The NHLS was hit by a cyber attack that significantly disrupted the normal delivery of essential health services in the public health sector.

The Board and Executive Management have since briefed Phaahla, who oversees the work of public health entities under the Department of Health, on the progress made to restore the systems following the incident.

They also touched on the plans to prevent and manage future unforeseen disruptions.

The department describes the NHLS as the backbone of the country’s public health, which manages a network laboratory system that serves over 85% of South Africa’s population through 230 laboratories, playing a critical role in clinical outcomes and patient diagnosis.

“Deputy Minister Phaahla thanks the NHLS for its swift and tireless efforts to restore its laboratories to full operating capacity following a successful and comprehensive rebuilding of its information technology systems and infrastructure because more than 70% of healthcare decisions are dependent on their services, thus restoring operations underscores its commitment to the country’s public healthcare,” the statement read.

Following the recent hacking incident, Phaahla urged the entity to take decisive steps to fortify its information systems against future threats.

He also welcomed their commitment to investing in advanced cybersecurity technologies and implementing new protocols designed to enhance the security and resilience of the NHLS digital infrastructure.

“These improvements reflect its dedication to maintaining the highest service delivery standards.

“It is strengthening its systems to ensure that any future challenge is met with minimal disruption to its essential operations, allowing it to continue providing critical health services to the country with confidence and integrity,” the department added.

The department has promised to continue to support the NHLS and other public health entities to ensure they execute their mandates to effectively contribute to the public health system. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 10:24

104 views

22 August 2024

President mourns maths and science teacher William Smith

Location: News

President mourns maths and science teacher William Smith

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sadness at the passing away of maths and science education innovator and Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Baobab, William Smith.

In a statement on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa offered his condolences to the family and friends of the popular educator who passed away at the age of 85.

President Ramaphosa conferred the Order of the Baobab on Smith in 2019.

Born in Makhanda (in the Eastern Cape) to parents who were notable scientists, Smith made mathematics and science accessible to all pupils free, through television, in a groundbreaking 1990s TV programme called the 'Learning Channel' on SABC 2.

During his 25 years as a teacher, he is estimated to have taught close on a million learners.

President Ramaphosa described William Smith as an education and cultural icon for the nation.

“The outpouring of affection the nation directed at him when he received his National Order demonstrated, years after his retirement, [demonstrated] the place he held in people’s hearts.

“He was synonymous with The Heads of Knysna which was the backdrop to his television presentation decades before we could think of him as the first teacher to teach “remotely,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa stated that Smith made maths and science accessible to a broad audience, reaching not only learners but also their parents and anyone interested in revisiting or further exploring these subjects long after their school years.

“William Smith’s passion for his curriculum and for the success of those he taught in classrooms, at matric camps and on TV benefited millions of young South Africans even before our transition to democracy and the dawn of a new dispensation of equal education.

“May his soul rest in peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 08/22/2024 - 08:07

54 views

22 August 2024

August must be used to condemn acts of violence against women

Location: News

August must be used to condemn acts of violence against women

Acting Executive Director of the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI) Lydia Sebokedi says it is imperative to use the month of August to condemn all acts of violence against women.

“We need to unite as a nation to fight gender-based violence in our society,” Sebokedi said.

Speaking at the 18th Public Sector Innovation Conference being held in Durban, Sebokedi said there will be no freedom for any woman in this country until the scourge of gender-based violence against women is decisively dealt with permanently.

“As we all know, in our country, August is a month dedicated to us, women. We look back with immense pride and sincere reverence, to those women and matriarchs of our nation who led a march in the 50s against the unsavoury laws that were in place then thus shaping our destiny as a country,” Sebokedi said.

Many of those women never lived long enough to experience freedom.

“At the same time, lest we forget, we are in a society which has practically declared a cruel war against its women, where gender-based violence and femicide have reached a pandemic status.

“Let us all take a stand and say ‘no’ to violence against women and girls,” Sebokedi said.

She called on the conference delegates to engage on ways to integrate innovation and innovative thinking in order to improve public services.

“Let us also use this platform to network and forge working partnerships for innovation,” she said.

Sebokedi told the delegates that the CPSI has been sustaining various innovation platforms and initiatives to capacitate government institutions to improve service delivery to citizens.

“This work was deeply rooted in our belief as an institution, that innovation is a pivotal catalyst that enables us to meet the needs of our citizens.”

She said there was a need to find innovative solutions and approaches to deliver services better.

“There is a call for strong inter-governmental relations and the denouncement of silo mentality within government departments.”

Sebokedi said there was also a need to forge cross-sectorial partnerships with business, academia, civil society, particularly the youth, to allow for mutual exchange of knowledge and expertise in innovation.

“We come together to explore new and innovative solutions to service delivery, this time using mission-oriented innovation.

The CPSI reports to the Minister of Public Service and Administration and was established with a mandate of nurturing innovation in the public sector. It was established in 2001 by the Minister for Public Service and Administration as a Section 21 company. In 2008, the CPSI became the first Government Component listed in the Public Service Act. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 12:25

752 views

21 August 2024

August musts be used to condemn acts of violence against women