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On the back of a successful showing at Schoolscape in Stellenbosch, the Qualibooks Group are headed to Schoolscape IT Gauteng. Hosted at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways on 29 August, the event brings together the education community; showcasing fresh and innovative ways to bring new technologies into the industry. According to the event organizers, the …
As the global energy landscape shifts towards sustainability, Africa faces the unique challenge of balancing energy access, economic development and environmental stewardship. At African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy 2024, the Just Energy Leader Dialogue – sponsored by bp South Africa – will gather industry figures to explore how Africa's leaders can balance competing priorities and harness technology, policies and best practices to overcome energy access challenges.
The dialogue brings together key voices, including CEO of bp South Africa Taelo Mojapelo; Chief Investment Officer at the African Development Bank (AfDB) Wole Lawuyi; and Vice President and Country Manager, Senegal at Kosmos Energy, Khady Ndiaye. Moderated by Vice President at S&P Global, Michael Wynne, the session will explore how African leaders are navigating the complex intersection of social justice, economic growth and environmental sustainability in energy policymaking.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
African countries are leading the charge toward a just energy transition through a mix of enabling policy and investment promotion activities. Under its Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), South Africa has rolled out its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlining the country's strategy for energy diversification. The IRP provides for the accelerated adoption of renewable energy, while recognizing the continued role of coal and gas in national energy security. The DMRE has consistently advocated for a balanced energy approach, ensuring that the transition does not come at the expense of jobs and economic stability.
In Nigeria, the Federal Government has announced $585 billion in energy sector investment opportunities, aligning with the Nigerian Energy Transition plan, which focuses on increasing renewable energy, reducing methane emissions and achieving net-zero goals. Investments include $272 billion toward renewable power and infrastructure, $96 billion toward optimizing oil and gas processes, energy efficiency and carbon capture, $80 billion toward zero-emissions technologies and $2.8 billion toward clean cooking solutions. Nigeria will also host the $5-billion African Energy Bank, established by the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and African Export-Import Bank and set to accelerate access to capital for oil and gas projects across the continent. The initiative affirms Nigeria's leadership and commitment to ensuring energy security in Africa, as well as improving energy project financing.
Last month, APPO held discussions to help identify transition strategies, focusing on reducing gas flaring, enhancing local content and promoting research and development. Thought leaders like NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber and Chief Academic Officer of Maarifa Education Olubayi Olubayi, united to explore pathways to more sustainable energy practices across the continent.
In West Africa, Senegal is also prioritizing the simultaneous development of fossil fuel and renewable resources, striking a balance among other, single resource-centric economies. The country is set to begin gas production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project later this year, creating opportunities in gas processing, gas-to-power and infrastructure and establishing itself as a key regional energy hub. In 2024, Senegal expanded its focus on renewable energy by launching new initiatives aimed at integrating renewables into its energy mix and aligning with its Just Energy Transition Partnership with France, Germany, the EU, the UK and Canada. High-level international cooperation supports Senegal's goal of universal energy access through a low-carbon energy mix and has established the country as a regional pioneer.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
The reality for many schools in South Africa is bleak and often dire. Many students are forced to learn in makeshift classrooms under trees or in mud rondavels. South Africa’s most disadvantaged students attend schools that are severely under-maintained and under-resourced. This stands in stark contrast to research highlighting the critical role that a proper …
When considering adding a unique and functional structure to your backyard, a wendy house is an excellent choice. These quaint structures serve multiple purposes, from being a playful retreat for children to a practical storage space. This article provides a comprehensive look at wendy Houses, highlighting their versatility and the factors that influence wendy House …
RS South Africa, a trading brand of RS Group plc (LSE: RS1), a global provider of product and service solutions, will be exhibiting at MTE Ngodwana 2024 in Mpumalanga on 22 August. RS provides industrial products and service solutions for the pulp and paper industry that allow customers to focus on designing, building, maintaining, repairing, …
Deepening government, business partnership critical for SA
President Cyril Ramaphosa says although the partnership between business and government has yielded results in sectors such as energy and logistics, much more can be done collaboratively to address two of South Africa’s most pressing challenges – unemployment and economic growth.
The President was delivering the keynote address during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA).
“With our far-reaching reforms gaining momentum, the second phase of our partnership with business requires a firm focus on employment creation. This is where we need to strengthen the partnership.
“Business continues to support programmes like the Youth Employment Service and the SA Youth National Pathway Management Network. These initiatives connect young unemployed South Africans with opportunities for work experience, jobs and skills. But there is much more we need to do,” he said.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that government and business are in agreement about various areas where work can be done to stimulate economic growth and employment.
“We must accelerate the work to overhaul the visa regime to attract critical skills, investment and tourism. We need to make use of the opportunities we have identified in tourism, business process outsourcing and the digital economy.
“We agree on the urgency of equipping the workforce with digital skills to take advantage of the new world of work. We agree on the need to use private sector capital to fund the growth of small businesses, particularly in under-serviced areas like townships and rural areas.
“As the Government of National Unity, we seek to deepen this partnership [with business] so that we can together build a conducive environment for investment, growth and job creation,” he said.
A government at work
President Ramaphosa told the BUSA AGM that for its part, the seventh administration is already at work to make good on its commitment to growing the economy.
“As we outlined in the Opening of Parliament Address, the apex priority of this administration is to drive inclusive growth. This is essential if we are to create employment.
“We are therefore focused on sectors with high potential for growth and employment, such as technology, manufacturing, agriculture and renewable energy.
"We are committed to ensuring that economic growth benefits all South Africans, especially the marginalised and underserved communities. This means supporting SMMEs [small, medium and micro enterprises] and ensuring equitable access to opportunities.
“Growing our exports is a priority. We are committed to working with business and other social partners to improve the global competitiveness of local industries. We are working to streamline export processes to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, and to provide financial and technical assistance to exporters,” the President said.
Furthermore, government will continue on its reform path and with providing opportunities for education and skills development.
“We will continue on the path of structural and regulatory reform to improve the business operating environment. We are committed to a stable policy environment that stimulates investment.
“A skilled workforce is the backbone of a thriving economy. As government, we will continue to invest in education and vocational training to equip young people with the skills needed in a rapidly changing economy,” the President said.
Partnerships
President Ramaphosa maintained that government remains committed to its partnership with BUSA to “drive economic growth that improves the quality of life of all South Africans”.
He added, however, that it is pivotal to maintain active and continuous engagement to sustain the partnership.
“We must accept that there will, from time to time, be areas on which we may disagree. We should not let this deter us from the work we need to do.
“Rather we should remain engaged in dialogue with a view to finding solutions that serve the interests of the country. Clear communication is crucial for building trust and ensuring that policies are informed by the realities on the ground.
“We must continue to work together. We must leverage our collective resources, expertise and passion for our country’s future. Let us seize this moment to build a more inclusive, prosperous South Africa. Let us build a South Africa where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from our economic progress,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 13:58
Trinasolar (www.Trinasolar.com), a global leader in smart PV and energy storage solutions, further solidified its commitment to South Africa's renewable energy future with an insightful customer event in Cape Town on August 26th. This event not only emphasized Trinasolar's ongoing expansion in the region but also highlighted its transformative impact on the country's energy landscape.
The event featured a keynote address by Kadri Nassiep, the City of Cape Town's Energy Executive Director, who provided an insightful overview of the city's energy strategies. Mr. Nassiep's address tackled the critical challenges of power outages and outlined innovative solutions that align with Trinasolar's mission to deliver reliable, sustainable energy to communities across South Africa.
Zaheer Khan, Regional Director for South Africa at Trinasolar, spoke to the company's significant milestones in the region, reflecting on Trinasolar's growing leadership in the renewable energy sector. "Our journey in South Africa is one of partnership and progress. Trinasolar's advanced technologies and strategic collaborations are not only addressing the immediate energy needs but also laying the foundation for a sustainable energy ecosystem in the country," Khan stated. He further emphasized Trinasolar's role as a catalyst for positive change, driving both economic growth and environmental stewardship in South Africa.
Peter Pan, Trinasolar's Storage Sales Manager, presented the company's cutting-edge energy storage solutions, which have been instrumental in ensuring energy resilience across different regions. His presentation highlighted Trinasolar's ability to offer full-process solutions that adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs of South African customers, further reinforcing the company's pivotal role in the country's energy transition.
In a surprise highlight, legendary South African cricketer Dale Steyn shared his journey of overcoming challenges, drawing parallels between his career and the resilience required in the energy sector. Trinasolar also announced the establishment of the Trinasolar SA Padel Club, an initiative designed to strengthen business relationships with key partners in South Africa's renewable energy industry. The club will serve as a platform for collaboration and networking among industry leaders, fostering a community dedicated to the shared goal of sustainable energy advancement.
The evening concluded with a gala dinner and a captivating performance, leaving guests with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to driving forward South Africa's renewable energy agenda, with Trinasolar at the helm.
Since its founding in 1997, Trinasolar has emerged as a world-leading photovoltaics technology provider. With a robust presence in South Africa, the company continues to innovate and expand, playing a crucial role in the country's transition to a sustainable energy future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Trina Solar.
About Trinasolar (688599. SH)
Founded in 1997, Trinasolar Co Ltd (stock symbol: Trinasolar; stock code: 688599) is engaged mainly in PV products, PV systems and smart energy. PV products include R&D, production and sales of PV modules. PV systems consist of power stations and system products. Smart energy comprises mainly PV power generation and operatzions and maintenance, smart solutions for energy storage, smart microgrid, and development and sales of multi-energy systems. We are committed to leading the way in smart PV and energy storage solutions and facilitating the transformation of new power systems for a net-zero future.
On June 10, 2020, Trinasolar was listed on the Science and Technology Innovation Board (STAR Market) of the Shanghai Stock Exchange(SSE). It was the first PV and energy storage company to go public on the STAR Market providing PV products and systems, as well as smart energy. For more information, please visit www.Trinasolar.com.
The role of air conditioning in hospital settings extends far beyond simply regulating temperatures. In healthcare facilities, ensuring patient well-being extends far beyond medical treatments alone. The environment itself plays a crucial role in facilitating healing and recovery. Among the essential elements contributing to a conducive hospital atmosphere is the ability to maintain optimal air …
Govt to launch programme to clean cities across SA
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will soon initiate a programme to clean cities and recognise those that exceed expectations in making their towns sustainable and safe.
The country’s second-in-command said that cleaner cities contribute towards attracting investors.
“In this regard, as leaders in our respective towns, we must launch a competition of the cleanest towns,” he said on Tuesday.
Deputy President Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was delivering a keynote address during the first Three-Sphere Planning session of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) of the seventh Parliament in Cape Town.
He said his Office will collaborate with the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister and South African Local Government Association (Salga) to form a committee that will conduct an annual assessment of the cleanliness of cities and present awards.
“This campaign has the potential of ensuring that the private sector and communities in partnership with the government ensure that our cities are clean and safe.
“Honourable Members, in realising the vision of building a developmental, capable, and ethical State, we will vigorously implement the plan to professionalise the public service, and we will do so by investing in the capacity of the National School of Government.”
Modernising the State
Equally, he said, government must continue to invest in the modernisation of the State and government by introducing innovative solutions across government particularly.
“The whole world is going digital in many respects and as South Africa, we must not be left behind.”
Over the last 30 years, government has adopted progressive policies that the seventh administration is going to pay special attention to the speed of execution.
The Deputy President announced plans to strengthen coordination by refocusing the Presidency as the centre of government, bringing together critical government departments such as CoGTA and the National Treasury.
“We intend to align planning and budgeting as part of implementing the District Development Model (DDM) premised on One Plan-One Vision and this we will do to achieve maximum results in building a better life for all.”
The planning session is being held under the theme ‘Establishing an Oversight Agenda for the Seventh Parliament: Defining Key Oversight Priorities for the NCOP in the Seventh Parliament’.
Parliament‘s strategic innovation emphasises joint and integrated planning, encouraging collaborative work in program planning and implementation across government.
The session is aimed at ensuring that the NCOP institutionalises and implements a comprehensive Three-Sphere Planning oversight framework and mechanism, in line with the constitutional mandate of promoting the principles of cooperative governance coordination.
Government believes this will enhance the effective implementation of key transformation priorities, in line with National Development Plan Vision 2030. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:04
SevenC, a top managed service provider in South Africa, delves into the critical responsibilities and roles of MSPs in the region, highlighting their importance in optimising IT solutions for diverse businesses. Imagine a world where your business operations run smoothly, your IT systems are always up-to-date, and technical hiccups are a thing of the past. …
Pretoria, South Africa – Aiming to equip job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills they need to succeed in today’s competitive market, a highly anticipated workshop is set to take place on the 18th and 19th of October 2024 at 24 Skipper Avenue, Akasia, Pretoria North. Organized by Noble Wealth Creation Group, this event …
Foot Traffic, a leader in pedestrian traffic data analysis, is proud to announce the expansion of its service offerings to include advanced solutions for HR management and GPS tracking. These enhancements are designed to streamline management tasks and optimize operational efficiency for businesses across various sectors. Foot Traffic has built a reputation for transforming raw …
In a concerted effort to tackle the growing challenges of State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) debt in Africa, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) hosted a high-level workshop in Pretoria from 21 to 23 August 2024. The event brought together finance policymakers, industry experts, and international organizations to share best practices and develop strategic solutions for effective SOE debt management across the continent.
The workshop brought together officials from the Ministries of Finance of Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia, along with representatives from UNDP, the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development, and major state-owned entities. The focus was on enhancing governance frameworks, improving financial oversight, and exploring privatization options.
Participants discussed the critical role of SOEs in driving national development, acknowledging that while these entities have the potential to bolster economic growth and address market deficiencies, they also pose significant risks to government finances. The workshop highlighted that poorly managed SOEs can lead to severe financial burdens, potentially destabilizing national budgets and contributing to the deterioration of sovereign credit ratings.
“In many African countries, SOEs play a vital socio-economic role. This workshop comes at a critical time for Africa's development, with both SOE and government finances under pressure amid cascading crises and multiple shocks,” said Zuzana Schwidrowski, Director of the Macroeconomics, Finance, and Governance Division (MFGD) at ECA, in her opening remarks.
Ms Schwidrowski noted that “critical public services tend to deteriorate alongside SOEs' financial difficulties, leading to a downward spiral of weakened service delivery and growth.” That is why ECA organized this capacity-building workshop “to develop practical solutions and options for Africa,” she added.
The discussions also underscored the importance of corporate governance, risk management, and internal oversight as drivers of reform. Participants shared successful approaches to SOE debt management and identified key barriers, including challenges related to mandate delivery and the intricate links between sovereign and SOE credit ratings.
Lee Everts, Chief of the Macroeconomic Analysis Section in MFGD, emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to address the rising SOE debt. “Financial restructuring, governance and operational improvements, and in some cases, privatization or asset sales, are essential steps to mitigate the risks posed by SOE debt,” she said.
The workshop, organized by ECA's Macroeconomics, Finance, and Governance Division in collaboration with its Sub-Regional Office for Southern Africa, is part of a broader series of capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening public debt management across Africa. ECA remains committed to supporting African nations in implementing innovative and robust solutions to the persistent challenges posed by SOE debt and related government liabilities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Shipping containers have evolved far beyond their original use for transporting goods across the world. Today, these sturdy and versatile structures are being repurposed for a wide range of applications, from storage solutions to innovative architectural projects. This article delves into the many uses of shipping containers, the availability of shipping containers for sale, and …
Interventions to make housing affordable
Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, says the department is forging ahead to implement several interventions to redress the unaffordability of houses for the missing middle.
Announcing government plans and developments in the human settlements sector at a media briefing held in Pretoria on Monday, Kubayi said the department has recognised that the gap market or missing middle continues to face challenges in accessing adequate affordable housing.
“These are the households earning between R3 501 and R22 000 per month, who neither qualify for mortgage finance nor fully subsidised houses,” Kubayi said.
WATCH | Minister Kubayi briefs media
Kubayi said the interventions include First Home Finance, social housing and the Rapid Land Release Programme to encourage people to build for themselves.
Government will also develop a policy to encourage employers to provide housing to their employees and housing access for government employees through the Government Employees Housing Scheme. Government will also strengthen partnerships with stakeholders to collaboratively deliver housing solutions.
Progress
The Minister highlighted that since April 2023, First Home Finance (FHF) has been providing grants for non-mortgage products, and the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC) has seen a significant increase in applications from individuals who want government assistance to buy their first properties through FHF.
“Since April 2024, the NHFC has approved about 1 151 of the non-mortgage subsidies at a value close to R160 million. The majority of these are from KwaZulu-Natal (283), Gauteng (160) and Limpopo (263),” Kubayi said.
Kubayi added that the NHFC action plan has identified potential partners who can partner with the corporation as subsidy origination and distribution channels to support the non-mortgage housing programme. This has also been warmly welcomed by traditional authorities, mainly in the Free State, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal.
She said the department will soon launch its first rural First Home Finance housing project at Inanda, north of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Partnerships
“Over the next five years, the NHFC will also intensify its working relationships with traditional leaders to increase the delivery of affordable housing in rural areas. Another category of partners in the action plan is of building merchants and employers keen on assisting their employees to access adequate housing.
“The recently unveiled strategic partnership between the NHFC with Cashbuild and Capitec for the Zakhelikhaya initiative is a great step towards strengthening partnerships with this category. Cashbuild formulated this programme so that its staff and clients could build their own homes using the First Home Finance grant and a purpose loan from Capitec,” Kubayi highlighted.
By partnering with NHFC, the minister said the programme has been widened to include the broader Cashbuild clientele that qualifies for the subsidy.
She explained that the NHFC and Cashbuild will collaborate in assisting Zakhelikhaya customers to apply for and access First Home Finance subsidies.
“Capitec has partnered with Cashbuild to provide purpose loans to the Zakhelikhaya Project, meaning that the grant will get to its intended beneficiaries a lot quicker than has been the case with just the mortgage products.
“The partnership will also facilitate payment of subsidies to assist Zakhelikhaya clients to buy material and be assisted to build their homes.”
Transfer of old government property
The Minister and Members of the Executive Council (MINMEC) responsible for Human Settlements took a decision earlier this year, to have the old government housing stock to be given back to municipalities or to the people who have been staying there for a long time, by 31 March 2025.
Kubayi said people who have been occupying these houses for more than 20 years will be given the preference to take ownership.
She said all provinces have commenced their work to ensure that they meet the deadline of 31 March 2025.
“All provinces have met municipalities to agree on the transfer of properties to beneficiaries and devolution of vacant land to municipalities. Provinces will continue to engage individual beneficiaries to conclude transfer processes, and we will be monitoring the progress,” Kubayi said.
Once completed, the transfer will economically empower beneficiaries who mostly fall within the gap market. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 15:02
Benefits of just energy transition must be shared equally
As South Africa transitions towards a low carbon economy, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, says the benefits of energy renewable projects should be shared equitably with communities.
Addressing the National Consultative Workshop on Early Warnings for All (EW4All) in Pretoria, the Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of addressing potential job losses in the coal sector.
South Africa’s plans for the just energy transition will focus on the transition of the energy sector, as it navigates the shift away from coal towards cleaner sources of energy.
“It is essential that we approach this transition with humanity, providing support, training, and creating new opportunities within the renewable energy sector. A holistic approach is required, one that embraces clear and comprehensive national renewable energy policies sets defined targets and provides a roadmap for the transition.
“Community participation and ownership in renewable energy projects must be a cornerstone of this policy, ensuring that the benefits of this transition are shared equitably,” Singh said on Monday.
While necessary, he said the just energy transition does come with its set of challenges.
“Acknowledging our current economic growth's stagnation, the reliance on coal for energy, and the coal industry's role as a significant employment sector, we understand the complexities involved.
“Moreover, the challenge of making renewable energy technologies affordable and accessible cannot be overlooked. We need innovative financing mechanisms to ensure that clean energy solutions are within reach for all South Africans, especially those in low-income communities.
“As we chart our course forward, it is clear that no single solution can address the multifaceted challenges we face,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said for South Africa to truly succeed, it needs more than just policies and roadmaps.
“…We need action and commitment from every sector of our society. From all spheres of government to the private sector, from civil society to every citizen, we must unite in our efforts towards a sustainable future. Now is the time for us to harness the incredible potential of renewable energy, to innovate, to build, and to grow together.
“Therefore, our call to action as a responsible, interdependent, and interrelated government is not just to listen but to participate actively in this transition. Let us collaborate, innovate, and implement the solutions that will power our nation forward.
“Let us build a future that aligns with our environmental, economic, and social imperatives. A future where sustainable energy drives our progress, where no one is left behind, and where we stand as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of global challenges,” Singh said.
He stressed that local government is at the coal face of the country’s efforts, as this is where policy legislation and regulation turn into action.
“We must be focusing on a back-to-basics approach, getting the basics right with respect to our daily deliverables. More than half of the battle will be won if every local sphere of government gets the basics right. Innovation and consistently good service delivery are what will carry the day,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said electricity is the backbone of progress, an enabler that unlocks industrial growth, drives the economy, and promotes inclusivity.
“Yet, the sustainability of our progress hinges on our ability to shift towards clean energy. The spectres of poverty, inequality and unemployment cannot be exorcised without robust GDP [gross domestic product] growth, which in turn demands a stable and sufficient energy supply.
“However, our journey is compounded by the environmental cost of our past reliance on coal. This has left us with a legacy of environmental degradation and health issues, making our commitment to transitioning to renewable energy sources crucial for our environment and the well-being of our communities,” Singh said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 14:30
They were suspended during the term of MEC Mbali Hlophe when the department was in chaos
Johannesburg, South Africa – In the vibrant landscape of South African marketing, Isilumko Activate stands as a beacon of innovation, celebrating over 29 years of excellence in experiential marketing. With a strategic presence in Johannesburg, the company has redefined how brands connect with consumers through dynamic promotions and the effective use of brand ambassadors. Isilumko …
R25 million to provide sanitation for Nelson Mandela Bay communities
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) has committed R25 million over three years to provide dignified sanitation solutions for communities across the metro.
MMC for Infrastructure and Engineering, Khanya Ngqisha, said for the past decade, the municipality has experienced the mushrooming of illegal informal settlements across the metro.
“These settlements have exerted pressure on the already strained system, with communities demanding sanitation, water, and electricity. These demands come on top of the already existing backlog of the bucket system,” Ngqisha said.
Ngqisha said in 2015, the municipality had 32 000 bucket toilets and through focused interventions dating back to 2019, the number has since been reduced to 6 100 buckets.
Ngqisha said for the next three years, the metro plans to eradicate the remaining buckets entirely, ensuring that every resident has access to dignified sanitation.
To facilitate this goal, cluster service providers have been appointed to construct various sanitation typologies, including communal ablution blocks and single toilet units.
“This initiative is designed not only to improve health and hygiene but also to enhance the overall quality of life for our residents. As part of the rollout, contractors have been introduced to local councillors and community members [with] some contractors already on site, actively working.
“As a critical element of this project, the directorate is also conducting community engagement sessions to ensure that contractors understand the unique needs of the areas they serve before they start with construction,” Ngqisha said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 08/23/2024 - 09:32
SA award-winners, MySociaLife, unveil the ‘ModernMinds Series’, eight new modern life skills lessons for teens and pre-teens South Africa – 23 August 2024 – Vaping, social media safety, fake news, mind health and AI; these are the new lessons that our kids are now needing as the world races into a tech-driven future. Answering the …
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
Cape Town, South Africa – Designer Pool Covers Cape Town, a leading provider of high-quality pool covers, is proud to announce its continued commitment to enhancing pool safety and efficiency in the region. With over a decade of experience, the company has established itself as a trendsetter in the industry, offering a wide range of products …
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
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