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MoU to empower public servants

Location: News

MoU to empower public servants

The National School of Government (NSG) and the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce a new three-year postgraduate Diploma in Public Affairs and African Governance for public servants in Africa.

In partnership with the African Management Development Institute Network (AMDIN), and supported by the European Union, the NSG developed the curriculum and content of the postgraduate programme in African Governance.   

According to the National School of Government, the intent of the programme is to strengthen governance on the African continent and to professionalise public servants of partner countries.

Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, Principal of the National School of Government, Professor Busani Nqcaweni, said he is delighted at the partnership between the NSG and the Tshwane University of Technology.

 “We felt we needed to partner with an institution that can share our ideas,” Prof Nqcaweni said.

Prof Nqcaweni explained that the postgraduate Diploma is for African public servants.

“This qualification is the first on the continent and we trust that TUT will be able to deliver the programme,” he said, adding that  the signing of the MoU did not come easy for TUT - having been nominated from 26 universities.

He explained that the initiative is aimed at enhancing interaction among African public servants beyond formal high-level meetings which will bring together cohorts of students from across the continent encouraging a trans disciplinary approach to governance challenges.

 Prof Mashupye Herbet Maserumule, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the Tshwane University of Technology, said the relationship between the two institutions was long overdue.

“We are the most affordable and accessible university in South Africa and we attract more than 1000 foreign students,” he said, adding that the institution wants to be ready for the changing world of work.

“We are looking forward to this interesting relationship and partnership, and we as the institution have an obligation to share knowledge and education,” he said.

Professionalising the public service

The target audience for the course is public servants across the African continent but it will also be offered to the general public.

Participants will be expected to spend at least a week at a public service institution in another country in an exchange programme.   

The partnership between NSG and TUT is expected to significantly contribute to the professionalisation of the public service across Africa, enhancing governance and aligning with the continent's developmental goals.

The new programme seeks to bridge the gap between undergraduate and postgraduate education opportunities in member countries and to offer a regionally recognised qualification.

The conceptualisation and design of this programme is aligned to the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 to implement developmental programmes and to realise the aspiration for good governance in Africa.

Mandate

The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA).

The NSG is mandated with the responsibility of ensuring that public servants comply with the provisions of established legislation, regulations and systems, and can exercise proper discretion and innovation in solving routine and complex delivery problems.

The NSG is furthermore expected to ensure service delivery impact by supporting institutional performance.

The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental state the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).

The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase to middle and senior management as well as executive management. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 11:48

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South Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government

Location: MyPR

Afrika Tikkun calls for the Government of National Unity to ensure accountability and serve national interests. 03 July 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa: – Responding to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet announcement, South Africans are demanding that the newly established historic coalition government must close the door on exploitation, delivering tangible change to a nation crippled by …

Read moreSouth Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government

Apply for a PhD scholarship in science, technology and innovation policy

Location: News

Apply for a PhD scholarship in science, technology and innovation policy

The National Advisory Council on Innovation, through the National Research Foundation (NRF), is offering two scholarships to full-time PhD candidates in science, technology and innovation policy for the 2025 academic year.

The scholarships will cover the full cost of study, including annual tuition fees, accommodation, transport and food allowances.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • They must be full-time students who are registered or intend to register, for a PhD at any South African public university in 2025.
  • They must be South African citizens or have permanent resident status.
  • They must hold a relevant master's qualification from a university in South Africa or abroad. For the latter, the master's must be recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
  • They must have achieved a minimum of 65% at master’s level.
  • They must be 32 years old or younger in the year of application.
  • They must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
  • They may not be in full-time employment while they are studying.

To apply, individuals must send a CV of no more than five pages to Professor Anastassios Pouris at apouris@icon.co.za by 19 July 2024.

The CV should include a proposed PhD topic or area of interest.

Shortlisted candidates will be linked to the NRF Connect system (https://nrfconnect.nrf.ac.za) to apply for funding. 

They will receive an NRF application reference number and their application will be sent to their chosen university for screening and review. 

If the university recommends an application for funding, the NRF will continue with the process. – SAnews.gov.za 

Gabisile
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 12:07

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Read moreApply for a PhD scholarship in science, technology and innovation policy

Doorstep Gem: Discover the Hidden Charms of the Majestic Magaliesberg this Winter

Location: MyPR

Tucked between the busy cities of Pretoria in Gauteng and Rustenburg in the North West is the Magaliesberg region, a natural oasis that many people tend to overlook when seeking a holiday destination, a weekend break or day trip. “This area, with its rugged mountains, green valleys, and diverse wildlife, is a great spot for …

Read moreDoorstep Gem: Discover the Hidden Charms of the Majestic Magaliesberg this Winter

NHI Bill Highlights The Crucial Role Of Proper Maintenance In Healthcare Facilities

Location: MyPR

With the signing of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this year, the spotlight on South Africa’s healthcare system has never been more intense. Amidst fears that this bill could precipitate a mass exodus of healthcare professionals and potentially threaten the stability of the healthcare system, there is a renewed …

Read moreNHI Bill Highlights The Crucial Role Of Proper Maintenance In Healthcare Facilities

GNU: A new era for SA

Location: News

GNU: A new era for SA

As the new Cabinet of the seventh administration gets to grips with the workings of their various portfolios - it has been advised to place ordinary South Africans at the heart of the administration.

“Show the ordinary South Africans that their well-being is the ultimate goal and at the heart of those running government and the administration,” Extraordinary Professor at the Department of Political Sciences at the University of Pretoria, Henning Melber, told SAnews.

Melber’s comments follow on the announcement on Sunday, 30 June 2024, of the new National Executive of the seventh administration by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The much-anticipated announcement is the result of the National and Provincial Elections that were held on 29 May. For the first time in democratic South Africa’s history, that election did not result in an outright majority for a single party to lead the country for the next five years.

The will of the people

In those initial days following from the point where voting took place, up to the announcement of the results, ordinary citizens were wondering what would happen next. After all, we were accustomed to living in a country that since the advent of democracy, was led by a single majority party.

However, from the hotly contested elections themselves to the announcement of the election results, peace was the order of the day. This also extended to the period of the swearing in of Members of Parliament (MPs) and other MPs at a later stage, as well as the election of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane. The election and inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa as President and head of government of the seventh administration was also peaceful.

An acceptance of the will of the people at the ballot box also played an important part in where the country finds itself today with the seventh administration’s Government of National Unity (GNU) starting to take shape.

This GNU, however, differs from the one that South Africa had, following the seminal elections of 1994 that saw the African National Congress (ANC) go into a GNU with two other political parties, despite having won an outright majority. The current GNU comprises 11parties across the political spectrum.

These parties are: the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation. 

Collaboration

In an interview with SAnews, Melber further advised parties involved in the GNU to “collaborate with members of other parties based on trust; seeking to improve efficiency in service delivery.”

With this rather eventful week drawing to a close, South Africans not only witnessed the announcement of the new Cabinet, but also the swearing in of the new executive, including Deputy President Paul Mashatile as well as the induction programme of new MPS in the Western Cape.

And yes, it did take some time to get to where we are now as a country, but we must remember that Rome was not built in a day.

In his address to the nation on Sunday, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the length of time it took to put together the administration.

Confidence vs Time

However, Melber points out that given the different elements at play, the process in truth did not take too much time.

He said that given the rather unusual, if not complicated blend of parties who needed to secure common ground, and agreeing on an acceptable power sharing arrangement in terms of portfolios -, this process had actually not taken that long.

“And it was a necessary investment in building a minimum degree of confidence and trust as a point of departure. There are democracies who for months (among others The Netherlands, Sweden) if not years (Belgium) had not a proper government and were neither less politically stable. Many observers at least in the Western democracies were hoping for such a power-sharing arrangement and did not expect this to happen much faster. Building a reliable collaboration between political parties so different in their programmes needs time,” Melber explained.

A new era

In his inauguration address on 19 June 2024, President Ramaphosa described the GNU as “the beginning of a new era” adding that it requires a common mission, which is anchored in safeguarding national unity, peace, stability, inclusive economic growth, non-racialism and non-sexism.

Asked about his thoughts on the GNU, Melber said: “Under the given circumstances of the election result, the decision to form a GNU seemed to be a wise and considerate move, aiming to accommodate a broad middle for political stability in a government, in which the ANC remains the major party.”

The announcement of the new Cabinet also came with changes in government departments that involve the merger of the Ministries of Electricity and Energy as well as the announcement of a separate Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. The President also announced the separation of the Ministry of Agriculture from the Ministry of Land Reform and Rural Development, among others.

“This is a necessary adjustment to accommodate divergent interests seeking influence in governance. If in the end - despite some further bloating of the structures - it provides a reliable operational structure to make improvements in delivery - it is a well justified investment,” said the Professor.

South Africa’s future under a GNU is now underway with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni having held the first media briefing of the seventh administration on Thursday, 4 July 2024.

At that briefing, the Minister outlined the process that would be followed to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration. These said the Minister, will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU. 

To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.

After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for 11-12 July.

The two-day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.  

“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets,” explained Minister Ntshavheni.

Happiness trajectory

Following the elections and Sunday’s cabinet announcement, South Africa’s happiness trends have been on an upright trajectory.

This is according to the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index. The index is the brainchild of Professor Talita Greyling of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Prof Stephanie Rossouw of the Auckland University of Technology, with the technical support of AFSTEREO (Pty) Ltd.

According to UJ, the GNH is the first index of its kind and measures the real-time sentiment of the country. 

“The much-anticipated announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa of the new GNU Cabinet on 30 June 2024 is being experienced positively by the South African people, as shown by the near real-time Happiness Index of the GNH.today project.

“The happiness levels in South Africa have been trending upward since the election results were announced in June 2024, from 5.36 to 5.42,” the university said in a statement.

The GNH.today project measures happiness in near real-time based on specific emotion words used in Google searches.  

“The GNU ensures a broad representation and a solid mandate to govern the country, contributing to higher levels of transparency, accountability, and trust in the government.  It also explains the higher happiness levels, reflecting hope for a better future,” said the university.

In analysing the positive trend in the happiness index, the team found that positive emotion words used in South Africa increased, such as “hope”, “happiness”, and “joy”.

However, there was an increase in negative emotion words such as “bad” and “afraid”, but with a positive net effect. 

“The increase in both positive and negative words is expected as it indicates the debate around the newly appointed cabinet.  Different parties criticise the portfolio allocations and the ministers appointed. The increased size of the government is also critiqued.  On the other hand, there is relief that the Cabinet was announced after almost a month of negotiations. 

“This announcement implies an agreement about power-sharing,” said the university.

Asked about whether he thinks the GNU will stick, Professor Melber is hopeful.

“I’m afraid I have misplaced my crystal ball,” he chirps.

“More seriously [though,] one hopes for the sake of South African citizens that this GNU manages to operate and serve the best interest of the people. If this construction holds, it is a win-win situation for all the parties who were able to compromise for the sake of the people and the country’s stability,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
 

Neo
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 12:54

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Discovering Value in the Past: Bassani’s Auction House’s Expertise in Numismatics

Location: MyPR

In a world where digital assets and fast-paced investments dominate the financial landscape, there’s a growing appreciation for tangible, historical artifacts that offer both emotional and financial value. Among these, coin collecting stands out as a rewarding and enriching pursuit. At the forefront of this niche but fascinating field in South Africa is Bassani’s Auction …

Read moreDiscovering Value in the Past: Bassani’s Auction House’s Expertise in Numismatics

Cape Town – Are You Ready for The Addams Family Musical?

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

MotherCity Theatre Productions is proud to announce the professional South African premiere of THE ADDAMS FAMILY Musical by Andrew Lippa, Marshal Brickman and Rick Elice. Based on the beloved characters created by Charles Addams, THE ADDAMS FAMILY Musical centres around the eccentric, macabre, and ghoulish Addams family, led by Gomez and Morticia Addams. With witty …

Read moreCape Town – Are You Ready for The Addams Family Musical?

Mpox cases rise to 20 with infections expected to increase

Location: News

Mpox cases rise to 20 with infections expected to increase

Four additional Mpox cases have been reported in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, with infections expected to rise as contact tracing efforts are stepped up.

This pushes the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox in South Africa to 20 since the outbreak in May 2024. 

According to the Department of Health’s data, all cases involve males aged between 17 to 43 years old.

The recent infections include a 17-year-old man from Hillbrow in Johannesburg, a 37-year-old from Pretoria East, a 29-year-old from West Rand, and a 19-year-old from Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. 

Of the 20 cases, 10 were recorded in Gauteng, nine cases in KwaZulu-Natal and one from Western Cape. 

Meanwhile, the death toll has remained at three since the outbreak.

READ | Everything you need to know about Mpox disease

The department said outbreak response teams have been activated for the newly diagnosed cases. 

“Another batch of Mpox-specific treatment is expected to arrive in the country in the next few weeks as the number of cases is also expected to rise due to intensified contact tracing, risk communication and community engagement activities in the affected communities.” 

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has received over 130 test requests since the outbreak of Mpox in South Africa.

“The department appeals to all contacts of confirmed cases and suspected cases to cooperate with health workers during contact tracing, screening and 21-day monitoring period, to ensure no case is left undetected.” 

According to the department, contact tracing is one of the critical tools available to effectively break the chains of local transmission and control the Mpox outbreak. 

“All people with suspected symptoms are reminded to visit their nearest healthcare facility right away for clinical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment options, instead of self-diagnosing and isolation.” 

The common symptoms of Mpox include a rash which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands. 

“The rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet and so on,” the department explained. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 10:06

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Hyprop Investments LTD celebrates the success of SOKO District Rosebank with an unforgettable Open Day Event!

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Join us for a unique retail experience featuring a fashion show, celebratory bubbly, live performances, and a special set on the decks by DJ Zinhle. Rosebank, Johannesburg – SOKO District Rosebank at Rosebank Mall is thrilled to invite you to the SOKO District Rosebank Open Day on Saturday, 6 July from 14h00 to 17h00. This …

Read moreHyprop Investments LTD celebrates the success of SOKO District Rosebank with an unforgettable Open Day Event!

Setting priorities for the seventh administration

Location: News

Setting priorities for the seventh administration

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has outlined the process that the Government of National Unity (GNU) will undertake to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration.

This comes after the swearing-in ceremony of the new members of the National Executive that took place on Wednesday, 3 July 2024.

Addressing a media briefing on Thursday, the Minister said the government’s priorities and programme of action will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU. 

WATCH | Media briefing on the GNU

 

To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), which is chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.

After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for Thursday to Friday (11-12 July).

NDP: A compass to guide 

The Minister explained that the ultimate "filter" that determines the priorities of government will be the goals as articulated in the National Development Plan.  

“The choice of priorities is guided by their alignment to the attainment of the goals of the National Development Plan (Vision 2030) as adopted by Parliament in 2012.  As a country, we adopted the NDP in 2012, which was widely consulted [on], and it came to parliament for adoption. This is our plan to deliver a better South Africa for all by 2030.

“Later, the United Nations (UN) developed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are closely linked to that plan. As we implement the NDP, we are also implementing the SDGs,” the Minister said.

Following steps 

The two day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.  

“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets.

“Departments present both their strategic plans and Annual Performance Plans to Parliament and [the] Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) for oversight. The National Treasury will fund the implementation of the MTSF through the National Budget that is tabled and approved by Parliament,” Ntshavheni explained.

The DPME is responsible for overseeing and reporting on the implementation of the MTSF (the consolidated government view), and the Annual Performance Plans and submits the reports of alignment and performance to both the President and the Cabinet.

We wear a Government cap 

“As we are in a GNU, the decisions that we collectively agree on as the programme of action is the programme of action of government. We are collectively responsible for implementing that programme of action,” the Minister said. 

"As we go into government, we do not wear a party cap, but a government cap."  

Appointment of Ministers

On the issue of when Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers, Ntshavheni said when the President of the seventh administration assumed office or took the Oath of Office, Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers.

“This means all the executive authority powers moved back to the single executive authority, which is the President. No Minister of the sixth administration could make a pronouncement or a commitment or sign anything after the President took his oath of office.

READ | The oath has been taken, President Ramaphosa is inaugurated

“Similarly, the Ministers of the seventh administration only assumed office yesterday, 3rd July 2024 when they took their Oath of Office.

“Consequently, the priorities of the seventh administration are only going to be adopted at the scheduled Lekgotla and Ministers will be using this period until the Lekgotla to receive briefings from their departments and consult on how to shape the direction of the discussions at the Lekgotla,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:40

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Read moreSetting priorities for the seventh administration

Track It All Revolutionizes Business Efficiency with Innovative Management System

Location: MyPR

Track It All, a leading provider of bespoke task and inventory management solutions, has unveiled its latest system designed to streamline business operations and significantly reduce time spent on day-to-day tasks. The company’s innovative software offers a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to the unique needs of businesses across various industries. The newly enhanced …

Read moreTrack It All Revolutionizes Business Efficiency with Innovative Management System

Make a positive impact this Mandela Day

Location: News

Make a positive impact this Mandela Day

With commemorations set to be held for the birthday of late President Nelson Mandela this month, individuals, communities, and organisations are once again reminded to make a positive impact in their own communities.

This as Nelson Mandela International Day was launched in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via a unanimous decision of the United Nation’s General Assembly.

“It was inspired by a call Nelson Mandela made a year earlier, for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices when he said, ‘it is in your hands now.’ Every year, on the anniversary of Madiba’s birthday, the global community honour his life’s work by taking part in initiatives that make a difference in the lives of their communities,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation said.

This year’s Nelson Mandela Month and the International Mandela Day on 18 July will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”

The Nelson Mandela Foundation has published a list of 10 things to do this Mandela Day to honour Mandela.

Volunteer, collaborate, and come together:

  • Take part in a street clean up in your neighbourhood. Cleaning the environment benefits the entire community in different ways. It provides a sense of dignity and safety.
  • Spend time with the children or elderly people at an orphanage or old age home. Your presence playing games, reading to them, or just having a conversation could really brighten their day. This is about remembering everybody in your community, and reminding marginalised people that they belong.
  • Collaborate with a school to paint the walls. Many schools in South Africa are in a poor state, and students have to learn in uninspiring, undignifying environments. Painting the walls is a great way of contributing to the students' success.
  • Collect sanitary towels for disadvantaged women and girls in your community. You can even just join a sanitary towel drive through your local Dischem.

Donate, give, and share:

  • Donate food to homeless people. The homeless crisis in South Africa is worrying; keeping homeless people fed gives them a chance to escape their situation.
  • Give old bedding, clothes and toys to an orphanage. Many orphanages are underfunded and are in dire need of resources. Donating resources could meaningfully contribute to the well-being of the people staying there.
  • Plant a community garden with your neighbours, or donate trees to a needy area. Having access to good food and clean air significantly improves the lives of people living in your community.

Other kinds of support:

  • Spread awareness of the campaign by boosting posts online through engagement. Use the hashtags, share people’s work, and be a cheerleader, even if you can’t contribute yourself.
  • Come to the Mandela Day Walk and Run on 20 July at Wanderers Stadium with your family. Being a part of a community activity is an excellent way of honouring the values that Tata Madiba stood for - ubuntu, community, and giving back.
  • Help fund social justice organisations. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in South Africa are severely underfunded and the work they do for people in South Africa is life-changing. Consider donating funds to your favourite NGO.

-SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:49

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Crown Relocations South Africa Joins the Fight Against Period Poverty by Supporting #GirlDontSkipADay Initiative

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, July 2024 – Leading global relocations company, Crown Relocations South Africa, has taken a crucial step towards ensuring that no girl child is unable to attend school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products. Through their Crown Africa Coronets Group, they have donated 230 sanitary pads to the Foundation for Special Needs Children …

Read moreCrown Relocations South Africa Joins the Fight Against Period Poverty by Supporting #GirlDontSkipADay Initiative

CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies

Location: News

CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and its entities, have extended their congratulations and welcomed Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, Deputy Minister Dickson Masemola and Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe to the portfolio.

This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet on Sunday. 

“The staff and management in the department look forward to working with the new Minister, Deputy Minister Masemola, and the returning Deputy Minister Burns-Ncamashe. 

“Their experience working with both the local government and traditional leadership sectors will go a long way in ensuring that the departments achieve their constitutional mandate.” 

The new leaders have already convened a meeting this week with the Executive Committees (Exco) of the ministry. 

The meeting also included the CEO and the Deputy Directors-General (DDGs) of the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) as well as the CEO of the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB).

“The primary purpose of the meeting was to facilitate a meet and greet session and to provide a high-level introduction to the department’s programmes to the new executives. The Directors-General of the departments led the session, pledging their commitment to work with the Minister and Deputy Ministers in fulfilling the departments’ mandates,” the department explained. 

Speaking at the session, Burns-Ncamashe briefly highlighted the challenges faced by the institution of traditional leadership. 

He expressed his commitment to supporting the Minister in promoting cooperative governance and strengthening traditional affairs.

His colleague, Masemola indicated his eagerness to work with both the Minister and Deputy Minister, as well as the CoGTA team, to address the challenges faced by local governments. 

“He emphasised the importance of stabilising and supporting municipalities to ensure they can deliver on their constitutional mandates. Additionally, he called for increased collaboration with traditional leaders to advance South Africa’s development.”

Hlabisa expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Ministers for their support so far. 

“He assured that he and the Deputy Ministers are committed to working closely with the department’s officials, using their experience in local government and with traditional leaders.” 

The Minister stressed the need to respond rapidly to challenges at the local government level by leveraging all experiences. 

The Minister spoke of a proactive and diligent approach, emphasising the importance of striving to “do things right the first time”.

The department also took the time to thank the former Minister, Thembi Simelane and Deputy Minister Parks Tau for their efforts that have enabled the departments to deliver on their constitutional mandate. 

Simelane is the new Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, while Tau was appointed Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:24

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Read moreCoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies

Telkom recognised as a top South African brand by Brand Africa

Location: MyPR

3 July 2024, Johannesburg: We are thrilled to announce that Telkom has been honoured as one of the 30 most admired South African brands that have significantly shaped South Africa’s global reputation and competitiveness over the past 30 years. This prestigious recognition was awarded at the Brand Africa 100 annual rankings of the best brands …

Read moreTelkom recognised as a top South African brand by Brand Africa

Visitors flock to Renishaw Hills for Botanical Society Winter Gardens

Location: MyPR

The vibrant colours and textures of the Renishaw Hills indigenous gardens on the KZN South Coast were the central focus as renowned botanist, Dr Elsa Pooley, led Botanical Society Winter Gardens tour on Saturday, 29 June. This mature lifestyle estate was selected as the fundraiser event host, once again, because of its incredible natural beauty …

Read moreVisitors flock to Renishaw Hills for Botanical Society Winter Gardens

Elsa Pooley shares 4 winter garden tips following Botanical Society tour at Renishaw Hills

Location: MyPR

Winter on the KZN South Coast has to be experienced in person, and with its spectacular gardens, coastal forests, and biodiverse wetland, there’s no better place to visit than Renishaw Hills. This year, visitors got the chance to discover these indigenous gardens as Renishaw Hills played host to the prestigious Botanical Society Winter Gardens fundraiser …

Read moreElsa Pooley shares 4 winter garden tips following Botanical Society tour at Renishaw Hills

Top contenders announced for the Engen Ballito Downwind surfski race

Location: MyPR

The return of the Engen Ballito Downwind to the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill brings with it some serious competition as top paddlers from the Eastern Cape, brothers Matthew (22) and Joshua (24) Fenn, take on the top local competitors this Sunday, 7 July. This doubles surfski race, from Blythedale to Tiffany’s beaches, forms part …

Read moreTop contenders announced for the Engen Ballito Downwind surfski race

Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in

Location: News

Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in

The new Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration have been sworn into office in Cape Town.

The cohort took their oath of office or solemn affirmation in a ceremony officiated by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Wednesday.

WATCH | 

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile watched on and congratulated the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers that he appointed in terms of the powers vested in him by the Constitution.

Addressing members of the media following the swearing-in ceremony, President Ramaphosa said the ceremony was a historic moment.

“It has been a very difficult and complicated process. It’s now come to an end and to a start. It’s a fresh start for all of us in South Africa. Today was a historic moment in constituting the Executive of our country in the form of Ministers and Deputy Ministers, who have all collectively been assuring me… that they are going to work and they are going to make South Africans proud.

“The trust that our people have invested in all these men and women... We will not waste time. We will work very hard to take our country forward,” he said.

The first to take the oath of office was Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

In taking the oath, the Deputy President said: “In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, I, Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it;

  • be a true and faithful counsellor;
  • discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience;
  • do justice to all; and
  • devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people

“So help me God."

Then it was the turn of the newly minted executive to take the oath of office or solemn affirmation.

The oath or affirmation compels them – amongst others – to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and to uphold the Constitution and all other laws while in office.

See our Special Feature | Meet the new Cabinet 

New path

Unlike previously, the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers are from an array of political parties as a result of the formation of the Government of National Unity.

The cohort boasts some of South Africa’s youngest minds to enter office, including the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, 34; new Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, also 34; Finance Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen, 36 and 32-year-old Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi.

On social media platform X, Gwarube said: “Thank you all for the well wishes! Being appointed the Minister of Basic Education is a massive responsibility that I do not take lightly. The future of the country rests on how well this department that I lead does its work.”

New faces to the Cabinet include Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber and Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi.

In a post on X, Schreiber said: “It is my honour to be appointed as Minister of Home Affairs for the Republic of South Africa. I pledge to serve you to the best of my abilities and in a spirit of collaboration, to demonstrate that South Africans can fix even the most intractable problems when we work together.”

There are some returning faces to South Africa’s Cabinet and deputy ministries.

These include Sihle Zikalala, who will be serving as Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI).

Zikalala served as Minister of that department during the sixth administration.

“As we continue this work, we do so with a steadfast commitment to put maximum efforts towards bettering the poor and work with all stakeholders.

“Together, we must make relentless strides to address unemployment, poverty and inequality. I congratulate the new Minister of DPWI, Dean MacPherson, and wish him all the best in his new assignment and look forward to working with him,” Zikalala said in a statement.

At the end of the swearing-in ceremony, Director General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, wished the leaders of the seventh administration well.

“Congratulations to the new National Executive and the Deputy Ministers on your appointment. We wish you well in your duties and endeavours to create a better South Africa and a better world,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:34

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Read moreNow the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in