Sergeant Bokamoso Peter
is dedicated to fighting for victims of sexual abuse
Contents:
Dec 2024 / Jan 2025
REGULARS
8. Conversations with leaders
Mayor Cyril Xaba takes over the reigns of eThekwini Municipality
12. Women in the public sector
SAPS Sergeant Nombi Bokamoso Peter gets justice for survivors of gender-based violence and femicide
14. Trailblazer
Enhancing HIV and TB outcomes is the goal for statistician Dr Nobuhle Mchunu
16. Profiles in leadership
Western Cape Director-General Dr Harry Malila shares secrets to good governance
20. Office of the President
The progress we have made this year gives us hope for the year ahead
FEATURES
24. South Africa assumes G20 Presidency Presidency will place Africa and the Global South on the G20 agenda
28. The HIV and TB crisis is far from over in South Africa
Multisectoral efforts needed to make a difference, writes SANAC CEO Dr Thembisile Xulu
30. South Africans urged to unite against HIV and Aids World Aids Day calls for equal, equitable and dignified access to healthcare
32. Shot' left Free State this festive season and support domestic tourism
SA’s summer campaign in full swing
36. Empowering Public Service Through Open Distance eLearning
The National School of Government leads the way in professionalising the public sector
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LIFESTYLE
Writer: Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie
A message of reconciliation and celebration: reflecting on 30 years of democracy
As we stand at the threshold of a new year that will mark all of humanity reaching a quarter-way through the 21st Century, we are reminded of the profound journey that our nation has undertaken since the dawn of our democracy in 1994. This year marked a significant milestone for South Africa as we celebrated 30 years of freedom, reconciliation and nation-building. Midway through 2024, we also witnessed the birth of the Government of National Unity. I am personally very proud to be part of this new chapter of our history.
United through sport
Sport, arts, culture and heritage play a significant part in nationbuilding. This year gave us so much to be proud of as a nation, whether it was the Springboks affirming their status as the best in the world, Bafana Bafana qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations or our medallists at the Olympics and Paralympics. The Blitzboks also won the South African Sevens Tournament in Cape Town for the first time in nine years.
We brought home an amazing 106 medals from the 13th
African Games in Accra and, beyond that, there were so many individual and team achievements, including Dricus du Plessis becoming South Africa’s first Ultimate Fighting Championship and successfully defending his belt.
Kgothatso Montjane won Wimbledon’s wheelchair doubles, Bayanda Walaza dominated the World Athletics Under 20 Championships in sprinting, while less publicised achievements included swimmer Amber Fillary breaking three Guinness World Records in days, Brad Cox being crowned World Rally2 Champion
in Morocco and powerlifting star Nicole Hasell shattering 13 records. So many others did us equally proud.
In the creative industry, Tyla won a Grammy for Best African Music Performance, along with a BET Award for Best New Artist and Best International Act. Makhadzi also won for Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act. Lebohang Kganye won a prestigious Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize and Judy Sanderson and her fashion brand became a Maison Mode Méditerranée Endowment Fund winner.
Cape Town Opera’s Thando Zwane continued to impress, along with the evergreen Pretty Yende, the Kearsney College Choir were crowned the champions of the Golden Voices Competition, and there were so many more who were recognised formally and informally, locally and internationally, for their greatness throughout the year.
A resilient nation
South Africa is one of the most resilient nations in the world. I believe that has a lot to do with our warmth, good humour and willingness to commit to reconciliation. Most South Africans want to solve problems and find ways to improve our country as a shared commitment to improving the lives of all of those we know and are yet to meet, knowing that ultimately this saves our own lives as individuals.
Our journey of reconciliation is a continuous process that requires effort, dedication and a willingness to engage with our past, present and future. This year's Reconciliation Month theme is, “Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures”. It is greatly anchored by promoting healing, nationbuilding, and unity among South Africans. This serves as a pow-
erful reminder of our collective responsibility to foster a culture of reconciliation through patriotism and our South African pride. As we commemorate Recon-
to acknowledge the progress we have made, while recognising the many challenges that still face us and will still come our way.
“Healing Historical Wounds and Forging New Futures”.
ciliation Day on 16 December, we are reminded to reflect on our individual and collective roles in promoting healing, forgiveness and unity. All of us are reminded
We should not lie to ourselves and say that we will ever be free of problems. What matters is that we never give up, and that we stay committed to overcom-
ing our challenges, with true South African grit and determination.
Over the past 30 years, our nation has indeed made significant strides in promoting democracy, equality and justice. At the same time, we know that as a country we need to be stronger on enforcing the rule of law and emphasising responsibility and consequence for actions, not just focusing on rights alone. We can stand proud, though, that we have established a robust constitutional framework, expanded access to education and healthcare, and promoted economic growth and development. The task before us is now in improving the quality of this access and ensuring that we benefit all those who need it most.
Let us therefore continue to work together to promote reconciliation, nation-building and social cohesion. Let us celebrate our achievements, learn from our challenges, and reaffirm our commitment to building a more just, equitable and prosperous South Africa for all.
I wish all of you a peaceful festive break and a glorious 2025. ❖
A andhappy safe festive season
As the year draws to a close, many of us will take a well-deserved break to spend quality time with our loved ones. This is a moment for rest, reflection and celebration of the significant achievements we have made as a nation over the past year. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges we have faced and the lessons we have learnt.
During this time, I encourage each of us to also reflect on how we can continue to improve and innovate in our efforts to serve our country and its citizens. Let us return with renewed energy and fresh perspectives, ready to tackle the opportunities and challenges that the new year will bring.
While we enjoy the festivities of the season, we must remain mindful of the varying emotions around us. For many, the holidays bring joy and relaxation but
for some, especially our matriculants, this time can be filled with anxiety and anticipation as they await their exam results.
Let us extend our support and encouragement to these young people. We should celebrate the successes of those who pass their exams and, through government platforms, encourage them to apply for funding, including the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, in a timely manner to ensure they are considered for funding.
For those who may not have achieved a matric pass, let us offer comfort and remind them that this is not the end of the road. There are government programmes that can help them pursue their dreams, such as the Second Chance Matric Programme, which provides support for learners who wish to rewrite their subjects.
During this period, it is essen-
tial for us as government to encourage parents and guardians to be vigilant for signs of distress in students awaiting their results.
We must encourage those struggling emotionally or feeling isolated this festive season to reach out for support. For assistance, they can visit www. sadag.org for a list of contact numbers and resources available to provide help.
The festive season is also a time of giving. Let us remember
the less privileged, including those who are homeless, and embrace the spirit of Ubuntu by sharing what we have with others. We can make a meaningful difference by donating to shelters, orphanages and other organisations that support those in need.
This year, the festive season comes at a time when many communities are on high alert due to food borne illnesses and fatalities recorded in various
Nomonde Mnukwa, GCIS Acting Director-General.
parts of the country. These incidents led to the tragic deaths of children and several hospitalisations in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Free State.
Let us heed to the President’s call for collective action and do our part by staying informed, vigilant and responsible. It is our shared responsibility to protect children and other vulnerable groups and prevent further tragedies. We should also report any fake and expired food products to the National Consumer Commission to help safeguard public health.
“By working together, by enforcing the law, by being alert and responsible, we will be able to bring an end to these tragedies,” said the President during
his recent national address on the untimely deaths of children due to food-borne illnesses.
This period is also a time when many people working in cities travel back home to be with families while others head to holiday destinations. Unfortunately, road traffic fatalities remain one of the leading causes of death in South Africa. As we travel, let us prioritise safety by adhering to traffic rules and ensuring that we use roadworthy vehicles. For those embarking on long journeys, it is important to rest regularly to stay alert.
As always, government will intensify operations through visible and proactive traffic enforcement to help reduce accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.
On 1 December, South Africa joined the global community in commemorating World Aids Day. This year’s theme, “Equal rights, equal care”, highlights the call for equal and equitable access to healthcare for all.
Government remains commitment to building a more equitable, accessible and affordable healthcare system that meets the needs of all South Africans. Through the National Health Insurance, government aims to achieve universal health coverage, making healthcare more affordable by leveraging economies of scale to reduce costs through bulk purchasing for the entire population.
South Africa has made significant progress in the fight against HIV and AIDS. This
year, we celebrate 20 years of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), with the largest ART treatment programme in the world, available to all South Africans free of charge.
According to the Sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour Survey 2022, “advancements are evident in the stabilisation of HIV prevalence, a reduction in HIV incidence, and improved treatment outcomes, including increased ART coverage and viral load suppression in line with the 9595-95 targets”.
I wish everyone a joyful festive season and a merry Chrismas to the Christian Community.
Photo: Mel Poole on Unsplash
Xaba maps out his plan for eThekwini
The past four years have seen eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality plunge into a vortex of tumultuous spells that have threatened to cripple KwaZulu-Natal’s only metro municipality.
When the mayoral chain became vacant in June, seasoned politician Cyril Xaba was assigned with taking over the reins of returning the city to its former glory.
In a recent sit-down interview with Public Sector Manager magazine, Xaba said he was familiar with the challenges he has been alloted.
He said: “The reception was reassuring. Not only to me but I think to the residents of eThekwini that the city has found a leader who is going to join hands with other leaders and deliver on the city’s objectives.”
Although his arrival was largely met with a warm reception, there were some sceptics.
“Even people that were doubting, we will show them that when working together, nothing is impossible. We will realise the objectives of a ‘caring a liveable city',” he said.
The former provincial and national assem-
eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality Mayor, Cllr. Cyril Xaba.
bly legislator has nothing but glowing words for his predecessor, saying he had inherited a functional city.
“The systems are there. The finances are stable. On that front, I can tell you that we can take it to the next level,” he said.
Honing in on the city’s state of affairs, Xaba concedes that there are areas of concern that were giving him sleepless nights.
“It is the basic things. If you look at the statistics from the SAPS, they tell you that there are areas in the city where crime figures are still very stubborn – they are not going down. That concerns me a great deal. Secondly, it is an economy that is not creating jobs,” he said.
The mayor bemoaned what he described as little to no construction sites in the metro, which was the case a few years ago.
“That is an indicator of an economy that is not growing. But just recently, the team took me to various sites of development that are supported by the city. I was excited to see yellow plants, something I had not seen for many years in the city,” he said.
He said this excluded construction work undertaken by SANRAL on the N2 and N3 highways.
The recent developments he observed were an indication that the Metro was turning the corner and city’s economy was bouncing back.
“We only have to do a few
things to sustain the green shoots we are seeing,” he said.
Water shortages
Another area that needed urgent attention for the mayor was the ongoing water shortages plaguing the municipality. The challenges in this regard, like in many areas in the country facing a similar problem, was the issue of ageing infrastructure.
Xaba said the crisis was beginning to impact on the city’s ability to effectively provide water to residents.
“What we are picking up now is the demand exceeding supply. If our infrastructure was in good condition, and we did not have the leaks, I think the city would have sufficient water to meet all our demands,” he said.
Because eThekwini is the only metro in KwaZulu-Natal, it is inundated with people from across the province, thus stretching the city’s limited resources, especially in its under resourced informal settlements.
“The number of informal settlements are not going down. They are not going down at a time when the city is running short of land to build houses to accommodate more people. That is another challenge that we are facing,” he said. Overall, however, besides issues that arise on an ad hoc basis, he confident that the metro is functioning optimally, adding that only strong leadership was needed to “get things done.”
Stakeholder Engagement
Since assuming office in July, Xaba has held various engagements with formations of business, civil society, labour, religious and traditional leaders, as he sought to fully grasp the issues that need to be addressed. This, he said, was critical.
“Even before I decide on my top priorities as a new mayor, I need to listen, consult and talk to the different sectors and
Cleanup efforts in eThekwini Municipality.
Photo: eThekwini Municipality
groups so that anything I develop somewhat address some those issues. If you do not do that, you create a gap between yourself and people who are in a position to help you build,” he emphasised.
He conceded that there was litany of areas that required urgent attention if the contract investment in the city, especially in the Central Business District. Chief among these was the ease of doing business, saying business leaders he had engaged with had cited issues such as red tape in the approval of building plans and permits, among others.
Above this, the lingering issue of crime that continues to plague the metro needed to be addressed.
“It is especially the case with
these bad buildings that we have in the city. We have to clean the city. It is one of my top priorities. Tourists must be able to come to the city, we must take advantage of our warm weather – the beaches, our hospitality sector that will compete with the rest of the world,” he said.
His council has already begun to address some of these areas.
In April 2022, as the city was recovering from the devasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, it was hit by crippling floods that destroyed infrastructure to the value of billions of rands.
Almost three years later, eThekwini is still picking up the pieces, revealed the mayor.
“While the economy is starting to pick up again, growth
has not reached satisfactory levels. That you still have graduates that our economy still cannot absorb, tells you that you are still facing a challenge. It happened at a time when the economy was starting to pick up from the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
The two events are sandwiched by the unprecedented violent unrest that hit large parts of the province. The unrest saw many businesses looted and destroyed.
“When you have so many people unemployed, it means you have fewer people to collect revenue from. As we speak now, I am not happy that our capital expenditure is at the level it is. Management and I need to have a conversation on that because I am not very
happy. There needs to be a strong capex to be in a position to drive infrastructure that will sustain economic growth,” he said.
Corruption
Turning his attention to the question of corruption in the city, Xaba said malfeasance was bound to thrive when there were no consequences for wrongdoing.
“Even when the AuditorGeneral and City’s Integrity and Investigation Unit has made damning findings against some employees and there are no consequences, it becomes an invitation to other people to undermine processes. We have got to step up on that. You do that and you will see the results,” Xaba concluded. ❖
Photo: eThekwini Municipality Facebook page
eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba meets with residents in Clermont.
A FINANCIAL PERSPECTIVE
GEMS is pleased to announce that member contributions for 2025 will only increase by an estimated average of R438, subject to the average family size across our benefit options. This adjustment is necessary to ensure the Scheme’s long-term sustainability. It is important to note that GEMS’ contributions are 25% lower than other medical schemes for the average family. Your increase will also be dependent on your salary band and the number of beneficiaries registered.* The tables below show the full contributions for the year and do not include any subsidies, which you may qualify for. If you qualify for a subsidy,** your employer will pay part of the contribution, and you will be required to pay the balance.
*Total contribution is based on the current family size and salary information provided.
**Kindly note that GEMS does not determine the subsidy as the subsidy is determined solely by the employer.
Top sleuth is inspired by her ordeal to put rapists behind bars
Sergeant Nombi
Bokamoso Peter has managed to rise above being a rape statistic to being recognised as a heroine for bringing justice to victims of the pervasive scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in Thaba Nchu, in the Free State. Peter experienced a traumatic ordeal when she was just nine years old in the dusty street of Gladstone, a village in the mountainous town. She used this as motivation to dedicate her life to protecting others. She currently works as a detective in the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Investigations (FCS) unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State. She
is also attached to the Manguang District Serial Rapist Task Team.
Speaking to Public Sector Manager (PSM) magazine, Peter said growing up – especially after her ordeal – she wanted to pursue a career in the safety and security, and legal sectors.
“I did not specifically want to work in the police service, but I wanted to be in the law enforcement or justice sector,” she reminisced.
Growing up in a community with pervasive levels of GBVF served as an extra motivator for Peter.
“I grew up in an area where the abuse of children and woman was a norm. Even I was a victim of rape when I
was just nine years old. I always wanted to be the voice of the voiceless,” she told PSM.
Working as a detective in the FCS unit is not easy for the 41-year-old Peter.
“As a survivor, you ask yourself so many questions, including how the police are going to treat me. For me, resolving a case and seeing a person closing a painful chapter in their lives gives me great joy,” she said.
Career journey
She took PSM through a journey, from when she completed her matric in 2002 to the current position that she occupies.
Driven by a passion to work in the law enforcement and justice sector,
Peter enrolled for a law degree at the University of South Africa (UNISA). Two years into the journey, she changed route after she was recruited in the SAPS’s basic police development learning programme.
The 24-month long programme enables newly appointed police officials to use a series of legal and policing skills to protect and serve community members in accordance with the Constitution of South Africa, 1996.
It also provides a more effective service that will improve community satisfaction and position them to fulfil their mission of creating a safe and secure environment for all who live in the country.
Determined to reach her ultimate goal, Peter has over the years gone on to obtain various qualifications in the field, including a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Forensic Investigation and a Diploma in Policing, both from UNISA. She also holds a Human Resource Management Diploma from Motheo TVET College.
She officially began her journey as the member of the SAPS in 2009, and has since flourished, with her receiving considerable recognition from across the board.
In her policing career, she managed to put 32 criminals to
time in prison, some of whom are serving life sentences. In total, these criminals will serve 330 years in prison.
In September 2024, her skills as a sleuth saw a serial rapist that could be linked to four cases successfully prosecuted and sentenced to serve more than 30 years in jail for incidents dating back to 2017.
The rapist, Vuyisile Jackson Mamokgwe (24) was successfully linked through DNA in December 2022. In this case, Peter had to start the investigation process to trace the victims, arrest the suspect and prepare evidence to ensure the successful prosecution of Mamokgwe.
The sergeant, working with Prosecutor Azola Key from the National Prosecuting Authority, managed to lead evidence
in the Bloemfontein Regional Court in order to secure a successful conviction.
The suspect was found guilty on all four charges and was sentenced to eight years for each case after he pleaded guilty, totalling to 32 years direct imprisonment.
The sentences will not run concurrently and he was declared unfit to possess a firearm. His name was also added to the register for sexual offenders.
Reward for excellence
During the 13th South African Heroine Awards Ceremony that were held in Sun City at the beginning of November, Peter emerged as the overall winner in the legal sector category.
She was honoured for her
role in putting perpetrators of GBVF behind bars for crimes against women, children and vulnerable groups. The award ceremony is held annually to honour and celebrate women who are making a difference in society.
She said the accolades was a testament to the hard work the FCS unit was trying to do in the Free State.
“Getting accolades like these means our work as police officials is being recognised. It means we are taking our victims very seriously, and that victims can trust us when they report cases. That is all that we want... to serve and protect and be recognised at the end of the day,” she said.
“Our job is straightforward. What I love the most about it is that it gives me closure, remember I was a victim of rape myself. My case was never reported to the police, my mother was told to not tell my father about what happened to me. For me, it is therapy. I am a Christian with a deep love for God so this gives great healing,” she explained.
However, she admitted that the recognition is not an invite for her to rest on her laurels.
“I want to do more for victims of GBVF. I want to put more rapists behind bars,” concluded Peter. ❖
Dr Nobuhle Mchunu uses biostatistics to combat HIV and TB
As South Africa joins the global community in observing World AIDS Day on 1 December, Dr Nobuhle Mchunu beseeches South Africans to continue educating themselves and their communities about effective ways to prevent new HIV infections.
She urges those who test HIV positive to begin treatment as
soon as possible and to play an active role in challenging the stigma associated with the virus.
The 32-year-old, who hails from Elangeni village in Muden, KwaZulu-Natal, works as the Senior Statistician Competent at the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC).
As a Biostatistician, Mchunu
plays a key role in helping medical professionals make data-driven decisions related to policy and health guidelines. She collaborates with researchers, scientists, and students to provide statistical expertise that supports biomedical research.
Her responsibilities include designing clinical trials and
observational studies, determining appropriate sample sizes, developing statistical analysis plans, and conducting advanced statistical analyses. These contributions are essential for maintaining the integrity and scientific validity of medical research projects.
“I am currently involved in the Sixth South African HIV
Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour (SABSSM VI) surveys, providing statistical expertise on a project that provides information on national and sub-national progress towards control of the HIV epidemic in South Africa,” she explained.
Essentially, her work focuses on improving and applying advanced statistical methods to HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) data, aiming to enhance public health evaluations and better assess the potential impact of various interventions.
Personalised approach
“My PhD research focused on joint modeling and personalised scheduling of tests in the context of HIV and TB co-infection. The key insight from my work was that screening intervals should be tailored based on an individual’s health status, promoting a more personalised and precise approach to patient care,” she explained.
“We are trying to move forward to precision medicine and stop using the blanket approach for all patients. You cannot treat people who are ill the same way you treat people who are infected but not sick,” she added.
For instance, Mchunu ex-
plained that patients who have successfully suppressed their HIV viral load and have high CD4 count, and have successfully completed their TB treatment, can safely extend their screening intervals beyond the typical six-month period. This approach not only aligns with their health needs also helps them to minimise medical costs.
On the other hand, she said those whose health is deteriorating should be monitored frequently, and the most effective way to do this is by prescribing shorter screening intervals.
“The study recommends that they get tested every three to five months to see if their health is improving. This helps the clinicians to intervene quickly and prevent serious adverse events,” she explained.
She added that this approach not only enhances current patient care protocols but also paves the way for future clinical trials and the development of biomarker-guided therapies.
“These findings hold potential across various diseases, demonstrating how tailored healthcare can improve both treatment outcomes and overall healthcare efficiency,” added Mchunu.
To date, Mchunu has coauthored 12 peer-reviewed
articles in Institute for Scientific Information (ISI)-listed journals. Her work applies advanced statistical methods to diverse areas, including the evolution of CD4 count after antiretroviral
collaborating with some of the best researchers in clinical science, ensuring that the research we conduct informs evidence-based healthcare interventions and policymaking in South Africa,” she said.
“We are trying to move forward to precision medicine and stop using the blanket approach for all patients. You cannot treat people who are ill the same way you treat people who are infected but not sick. ”
therapy initiation, the impact of TB-HIV co-infection on mortality, and most recently, studies aimed at preventing severe COVID-19.
“Over the past six years, I have refined my skills by
Through her work, Mchunu has made significant contributions to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing research capacity in South Africa, which ultimately strengthens the country's public health infrastructure and bolster its ability to address critical health challenges.
Against all odds
Mchunu’s success is one for the books, as she faced adversity but refused to give up on her dreams.
She is a beneficiary of government programmes designed to uplift South Africans – a prime illustration of a true “Tintswalo” as described by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his 2024 State of the Nation Address. Among the programmes that supported her journey are the South African Social Security Agency Child Support Grant, National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the National Research Foundation scholarship. I enrolled with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) for
a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Chemistry but switched to BSc Applied Mathematics and Statistics in the second semester of first year of study,” said Mchunu.
After completing her undergraduate studies, she successfully applied for the NRF scholarship and enrolled for a BSc Honours in Statistics at UKZN, which she completed in 2016. The following year, she enrolled for a Master of Science (MSc) in Statistics at the same institution.
Mchunu also received a Master's in Biostatistics Bursary
Award from the Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training, and Science in Africa Consortium for Advanced Biostatistics Training programme, which supports advanced biostatistics training across Africa.
In 2018, Mchunu was accepted into the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) Centre of Excellence Fellowship, which she joined during her second year of her MSc studies. Her journey was not without its challenges. In 2018, Mchunu faced the heartbreaking loss of her mother, and, in the
same year, she discovered that she was pregnant. With her mother gone, her grandmother stepped in to help head the household while Mchunu balanced her studies and caring for her siblings.
Further studies
In 2019, the SAMRC’s Biostatistics Capacity Development Programme awarded Mchunu a scholarship for her PhD studies, funded in partnership with Building Academic Partnerships for Economic Development. During this period, she continued her work with CA-
PRISA and remained at UKZN as a PhD candidate.
The same year, she was offered a permanent entry-level position as a Statistician at the SAMRC. Two years later, she was promoted to Seasoned Statistician. In 2023, she received another promotion, this time to Senior Statistician.
In April this year, Mchunu was appointed Senior Statistician Competent, a position she currently holds. She successfully completed her PhD in September 2024. ❖
Western Cape sharesDG secret recipe for effective governance
Successive Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) reports and other monitoring bodies continue to shine a light on the good governance of Western Cape Government (WCG) departments, entities and municipalities.
In an effort to understand the provincial government’s recipe for success, Public Sector Manager (PSM) magazine spoke to the provincial government’s DirectorGeneral (DG) Dr Harry Malila.
This was on the back of the province earning the coveted Public Service Innovation Award from the United Nations
Public Service Forum at a ceremony held in Incheon in South Korea.
Malila said the province’s leaders placed emphasis on the efficient and effective delivery of services, with a strict zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and maladministration.
“The administration of the Western Cape is distinguished by its dedication to transparency and integrity at all levels. The province's leaders consistently prioritise good governance, ensuring that ethical standards are maintained,” he said.
Additionally, the province has established robust accountability frameworks to guarantee that public funds are utilised appropriately.
“The prompt identification and resolution of any issues are facilitated by regular audits, performance reviews and continuous monitoring,” Malila said.
The WCG has frequently been commended by the AGSA for its proactive approach to addressing audit findings, with numerous municipalities promptly instituting corrective measures to improve service delivery.
Director-General of the Western Cape Government Dr Harry Malila.
Photo: Western Cape Government
“Municipalities are encouraged to engage citizens in the decisionmaking process, which promotes accountability and trust. ”
Integrated governance
Malila attributed the success of municipalities to the Provincial Treasury, which offers financial supervision, guidance and support to municipalities.
“This encompasses support for financial reporting, budgeting and adherence to the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA),” he said.
Above this, the DG told PSM magazine that Provincial Treasury collaborates with municipalities to create and execute financial recovery strategies when necessary, guaranteeing that any financial difficulties are promptly and proficiently resolved.
He said the early identification of potential financial hazards is facilitated by the continuous engagement between the Provincial Treasury and municipalities, which enables the implementation of timely interventions.
This was verified by the last AGSA’s MFMA governance report, which revealed that the provincial government’s support
initiatives contributed to 26 municipalities (87%) submitting good-quality financial statements that required no material adjustments.
Above this, Malila said the provincial government implements best practices and innovation to ensure effective service delivery.
On transparency and community engagement, the DG said the WCG's approach is characterised by active community engagement and transparent governance.
“Municipalities are encouraged to engage citizens in the decision-making process, which promotes accountability and trust. Communities are kept informed, and scrutiny is enhanced through consistent public reporting on service delivery outcomes and financial performance,” he explained.
Strategic procurement and supply chain management
The WCG, he said, emphasises improving the ease of doing
business, reducing red tape, and enhancing procurement processes. This involves a shift toward digital transformation and technology-enabled supply chain management practices to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
“The WCG aims to use public procurement strategically to drive value for money, efficiency and economic development, particularly in response to the economic challenges,” he said.
Assurance and oversight
Malila said a combined assurance approach, including integrating governance, risk management and assurance processes was critical to ensure effective oversight and continuous improvement in governance practices.
The office of the Premier and Provincial Treasury ensure effective and efficient public financial management by providing oversight, support and guidance to departments, public entities and municipali-
ties to create strategies.
“This award signifies that the Western Cape has implemented groundbreaking practices and policies, enhancing the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of public services through technology, citizen participation, and streamlined processes.
“It demonstrates our commitment to prioritising the needs and well-being of our citizens, ensuring accessibility, transparency, responsiveness, and accountability,” Malila said.
The award also recognised the province’s achievements in integrating digital technologies into governance, leveraging the digital government strategy approved in 2017, strengthening cybersecurity, and improving service delivery.
30 years of democracy
With the country marking 30 years of democracy, Malila reflected on the milestones the province has achieved in the last three decades, ranging
from realising inclusive development, economic stability, good governance, energy resilience, and its ability to respond to disasters.
While notable progress had been made to improving the lives in the province, the DG conceded that there were areas of concern that required focused attention. Chief among these were stubbornly high crime and unemployment rates.
To address unemployment, Malila said the province has developed a Growth for Jobs strategy that aims to achieve an annual growth rate of between 4% and 6% by 2035, with the
potential to create over 600 000 jobs.
The strategy emphasises the role of the private sector in job creation, while the government’s role is to create an enabling environment by ensuring access to essential resources including energy, water, infrastructure, skills, and technology.
He said crime and violence remain significant challenges concentrated in hotspots across the province.
Doing more with less
In this regard, the province’s efforts are guided by the Western
Cape Safety Plan, a data-centred, evidence-based approach to addressing crime.
Like its counterparts across the country, the province finds itself saddled with budget cuts.
“Reduced funding from national government and increased demand for the core services are a growing threat to the improvement of the Human Development Index of the province,” he explained.
He said the provincial government will continue to fight for its fair share of the national revenue to ensure that residents are not unduly disadvantaged. He added that the province
consistently formulates a budget that responds to mounting service delivery demands within a reduced fiscal envelope.
“At the centre of decisionmaking are the 7.5 million residents of this province, our vulnerable communities and future generations. Between 2019 and 2024, the Western Cape’s population expanded on average by 1.6% per annum to 7.5 million in 2024,” explained Malila.
Given the increased need to protect essential services, the WCG’s challenge has been to do even better with less. ❖
The Western Cape Government won the Public Service Innovation Award from the United Nations Public Service Forum earlier this year.
The progress we have made this year gives us hope for the year ahead
e are nearing the end of another year, marked by both triumphs and strug-
We celebrated thirty years since the birth of our democratic nation. We reflected on the considerable progress we have made in building a constitutional order anchored on freedom, equality and human rights for all.
We held our seventh successful, free and fair general elections since 1994. It was a landmark poll, with an unprecedented 70 political parties contesting. The
election was a credit to the Independent Electoral Commission, which acquitted itself with distinction, the political parties who campaigned in a spirit of respect and tolerance, and to all South Africans who exercised their right to vote.
Our democracy has evolved and matured. We have a Government of National Unity comprised of 10 political parties from across the political spectrum. They have agreed on three strategic priorities for this administration.
The first strategic priority is to grow our economy and create jobs.
The structural reforms initiated under the sixth administration are continuing to create conditions for our economy to grow and to create jobs.
The country has had over 250 days with no loadshedding. This is due to a combination of increased maintenance and generation recovery by Eskom, the addition of more capacity to the grid including from renewables, and the
large-scale uptake of solar and battery energy solutions by households and businesses.
The work of the National Energy Crisis Committee continues. It is working to get more power onto the grid, to expand our electricity infrastructure, to diversify the market for the benefit of consumers, and to lay the groundwork for an energy-secure future.
There has been a significant recovery of commuter rail since theft and vandalism during the COVID-19 pandemic nearly destroyed the network. Stations have been refurbished, new state-of-the-art trains are on the tracks, and 31 out of 40 key passenger corridors are now operational. There were 40 million commuter rail passengers in the last financial year, up from 15 million passengers the previous year.
We are making progress in the recovery of freight rail and dealing with longstanding operational challenges in our ports. We are seeing improve -
ments at the container terminals in Durban and Cape Town, as well as with infrastructure upgrades.
While unemployment levels remain extremely high, more South Africans are finding jobs.
The second strategic priority of this administration is to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living.
Consumer inflation is at a four-year low, making essential goods like fuel and most food staples more affordable. Over the past twelve months, fuel prices have come down.
Around 60% of the national budget is dedicated towards the ‘social wage’. These are the measures that reduce poverty and directly improve people’s lives. In addition to the provision of grants to vulnerable groups and unemployed people, this social wage includes subsidised housing, free basic services, nofee schools and school nutrition. Government has been able to sustain these measures even as
public finances are under severe pressure.
The third strategic priority of this administration is to strengthen the capacity of the state to deliver on its mandate.
Our efforts to improve the capacity and capability of the state to deliver on basic services continue.
We have experienced moments of great national pride this year. Our sportsmen and women did us proud, including at the Olympics and Paralympics. Our nation’s artists hoisted our flag high on the global stage, proving themselves to be among our most valuable exports.
The momentum we have achieved this year was marred by tragedy. The deaths of a number of children from eating contaminated foodstuffs was a great sorrow and caused deep concern. We have put a number of stringent measures in place to prevent such tragedies.
While we are making progress,
we have a long way to go. The pace of economic growth is still too slow and not enough jobs are being created. Families still struggle with the high cost of living.
While there has been some improvement in the crime statistics and there have been breakthroughs in tackling crime syndicates, crime and violence is still widespread in many communities.
Disruptions in the supply of electricity and clean water is a major problem in many municipalities. Many local councils are plagued by poor governance, limited capacity and severe financial constraints. This is affecting service delivery to our people. Strengthening local government is our key priority.
These are the challenges we are grappling with. We have identified local government as a major focus in this administration. Through initiatives like the Presidential eThekwini Working Group, we are bringing all stake -
holders together to solve local problems.
The progress we have made this past year and during the course of the previous administration shows that we can overcome the difficulties our country faces.
As government, business, labour and civil society, we are able to achieve a great deal when work in unison to overcome our common challenges. In the new year, we will embark on a National Dialogue that will draw together all South Africans in crafting a common vision for the country.
As the host of the G20 next year, South Africa will play an important role in addressing the challenges that many countries across the world experience. We will seek common solutions that improve the lives of all our people.
Overcoming poverty and underdevelopment, creating more jobs, and addressing societal ills like gender-based violence requires that we must all play our part, where we can.
On many fronts, this year has been better than the last. We will build on these achievements in 2025.
Wherever you may be this festive season, I wish you well.
The message was first published on 9 December 2024.
Sho't left Free State this festive season and support domestic tourism
Many South Africans take time off during the festive season to relax, enjoy quality time with family, or travel to different provinces for a welldeserved break after a year of hard work. For many, it has become a tradition to explore local destinations, contributing to the growth of domestic tourism.
The festive season coincides with one of South Africa's key travel periods: the summer season. It is the country's busiest time for tourism, followed closely by the months of September and April.
In October 2024, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille launched the Summer Campaign in Bloemfontein, Free State – to showcase the vibrant culture, breath-taking landscapes, diverse tourism offerings and rich heritage of the nation.
The campaign is spearheaded by the “Gimme Summer that Sho’t Left” initiative. Minister De Lille highlighted that last year’s Summer Campaign had a significant impact, generating over 10 million domestic trips and a total spend of over R38 billion.
“The Summer Campaign cre -
ates a good platform to promote an inclusive South Africa as an appealing and must-experience tourism destination for both domestic and international travellers, while showcasing a wide variety of experiences including hidden gems, in the festive season,” said the Minister.
A spotlight on the Free State
Shining spotlight on the Free State, Minister De Lille said the province accounted for 2.7 million overnight domestic trips in 2023. In terms of spending, the
Free State saw a total contribution of R7.1 billion from domestic tourism.
“The domestic market was promising from January to July 2024, with a total of 21.5 million overnight trips recorded. Additionally, about R66. 3 billion was spent during these months, highlighting the enthusiasm of South Africans for traveling locally,” said the Minister.
She added that out of the 21.5 million overnight domestic trips, the province received 2.1 million of those visits. In terms of expenditure, R5 billion was spent in
Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Photos: Department of Tourism
the province during this period.
The Free State’s appeal lies in its stunning scenic beauty and natural attractions. Located in the heart of South Africa, the province borders six of the country’s nine provinces, as well as the Kingdom of Lesotho, making it a central hub for both local and cross border tourism.
The spectacular Drakensberg and Maluti mountain ranges are major draws for adventure tourists, offering opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring. The province is also home to
some of the best rock formations in the world rich in San rock art.
A popular attraction in the province is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, named after the striking gold sandstone cliffs that surround it. The park is ideal for exploration on foot and is home to hundreds of bird species, making it a prime destination for birders.
The Free State is renowned for its warm hospitality and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the charm of small-
town South Africa. Its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming communities offer a unique, authentic glimpse into rural life.
“There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, abseiling and canoeing and other activities while the Ash River – the only river in the country that has yearround high-water levels – makes for excellent white-water rafting,” she said.
In addition, the province has many quaint and unique little towns and dorpies such as Clarens, which has many attractions
including Clarence Xtreme Adventure Company with a range of adventure tourism activities
There is also the Vaal Tourism Corridor with a range of accommodation options, cruises, fine dining, canoeing, fishing, paddleboats, power-boats, jet-skis or kite surfing and so much more to cater for any traveller’s needs.
Parys and Harrismith are also exciting hidden gems of the Free State as well as the Tiger Canyon Private Game Reserve on the banks of the Orange River.
“The Clarens Valley, situated
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park
in the Eastern Free State Highlands, is known for its spectacular sandstone mountains. This village has become known as the “Jewel of the Free State” –rich in beauty, peace and tranquillity,” the Minister said.
The “Diamond and Wine Tourism Route” is also a popular tourist attraction and follows the original diamond prospectors to the region. It includes open diamond mines at Koffiefontein and the mining village of Jagersfontein.
The QwaQwa National Park in Harrismith offers the discerning birdwatcher a rich variety of birds, including aquatic birds, and game-watchers will be able to see a variety of antelope such as eland, red hartebeest and springbok, as well as zebra.
The Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve near Harrismith is renowned for its water sport and angling opportunities, especially yellow fish angling among the many activities in the area.
Tourism performance
The Minister noted that in 2023, South Africa welcomed around 8.5 million international arrivals, which marking a 48.9% increase from the 5.7 million arrivals in 2022, contributing R95 billion to the economy. From January to August this year, the country saw 5.8 million international arrivals, reflecting a 7% increase compared to 2023.
She added that for the first quarter of 2024, total spending from foreign travel into South Africa reached R25.7 billion. Additionally, tourism’s direct and indirect contribution to the gross domestic product stood at 8.8%, surpassing contributions from the mining, construction, and transport sectors.
Regarding domestic travel, Minister De Lille reported that in 2023, South Africans took 37.9 million overnight domestic trips, marking an 11.3% increase compared to 2022. During these trips, domestic travellers spent R121.4 billion, reflecting a 22.4% rise in expenditure to the previous year. ❖
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille at the “Gimme Summer that Sho’t Left” campaign launch in Bloemfontein.
Photos: Department of Tourism
South Africa assumes G20 presidency
Brazil officially transferred the presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) to South Africa at the closing ceremony of the 2024 annual summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024.
This marks a historic moment, as South Africa becomes the first African nation to assume the G20 presidency. The country has planned approximately 130 meetings as part of its agenda for the upcoming year.
The ceremonial handover was conducted by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who both struck the ceremonial
gavel before exchanging handshakes and smiles.
“It is an honour to accept, on behalf of the people of South Africa, the responsibility of the Presidency of the G20 for the next year,” said President Ramaphosa.
He took a moment to congratulate the Brazilian President, a long-time friend, for a successful G20 presidency that elevated the participation of social and civil society groups and convened the first-ever G20 Social Summit.
“South Africa firmly believes that civil society serves as a bridge between the G20 leaders and the people who have the
greatest interest in their deliberations,” said the President.
He committed to maintaining this innovative platform for engagement throughout the country’s presidency.
He expressed his belief that efforts during Brazil’s presidency have tackled some of the world’s most urgent global challenges.
President Ramaphosa praised the increased attention on the development agenda for developing countries and said they would build on the work that has already begun.
“We applaud all G20 members, led by Brazil, in finalising the G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders’ Declara-
tion, which outlines the actions we must take together to build a better world. We appreciate that once sufficient consensus was reached on the declaration, members who still had points of disagreement did not stand in the way of adopting the declaration,” the President said.
Global economic growth
The Head of State said South Africa is committed to advancing the G20’s efforts to achieve greater global economic growth and sustainable development.
“We will work to ensure no one is left behind,” said President
Ramaphosa, adding that South Africa will strive to harness global collective efforts to address the challenges worsened by the fragility of global solidarity, crippling underdevelopment, and increasing inequality.
He announced that South Africa had adopted the G20 presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.”
“In line with this theme, we will seek to strengthen and advance our common pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Pact for the Future.”
He emphasised that achieving the SDGs by 2030 should be
a priority for the next five G20 Presidencies.
“Through our G20 Presidency, we will seek to strengthen solidarity. Whether it is in Gaza, Sudan or Ukraine, we must all stand in solidarity with those people who are facing hardship and suffering,” the President said. He expressed his support for nations that are most vulnerable to pandemics and other global public health crises, highlighting that many countries in Africa are currently facing Mpox outbreaks that require urgent international action.
He emphasised that through the country’s G20 Presidency,
they will address inequality, a major threat to global economic growth and stability.
“The disparities in wealth and development within and between countries are unjust and unsustainable. They show themselves in the lack of predictable and sustainable financing and capacity building for climate action,” he said.
He added that they were using the moment to firmly place the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South on the G20 agenda. The focus areas include inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, employment, inequality and food security.
“South Africa looks forward to working with all G20 members and invited guests and I am honoured to welcome you all to South Africa in the year ahead,” said President Ramaphosa.
G20 community outreach
Meanwhile, back home, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has urged South Africans to engage with G20 initiatives aimed at creating jobs, improving healthcare and fighting poverty.
He said this at a G20 community outreach at Mahlale High School in Acornhoek, Ehlanzeni in Mpumalanga. He was joined by Acting Mpumalanga Premier
Sasekani Manzini, officials and ambassadors.
Representatives of foreign diplomatic missions accredited to South Africa (ambassadors) also participated in the activities by handing over IT equipment to the school.
Lamola used the occasion to popularise South Africa’s foreign policy objectives and how these relate to the achievement of domestic priorities.
South Africa assumes the presidency of the G20 on 1 December 2024.
“This platform gives us an opportunity, as a country, to put our issues on the global stage [including the] issues that are affecting you here as the community of Bushbuckridge in the district of Ehlanzeni in Mpumalanga
and South Africa as a whole.
“Issues of unemployment, inequality, access to finance, climate change, tourism, artificial intelligence, and other day-today issues will now [be under the] spotlight,” Lamola said.
The Minister said the province is well placed to make a number of inputs into debates and discussions that will ensue during South Africa's presidency of the G20.
“You are also better placed [with regards to] tourism. As the Acting Premier said, you are adjacent to... the Kruger National Park, Sudwala Caves, Echo Caves, God’s window and many other areas of tourism. These are also spaces for your contribution as a province and as the people of South Africa.
“So, this platform [the G20] is in such a way that everyone is able to make a contribution and ourselves as International Relations, we will create that bridge that will enable you to make this contribution,” the Minister said.
International relations
Lamola highlighted the role of his department in addressing global conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Gaza through dialogue.
He explained that the country is actively involved in international relations, with its military in the DRC to facilitate peace and stability and is committed to contributing to the cessation of conflict in the Middle East. ❖
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva strike the ceremonial gavel marking the handover of the G20 Presidency to South Africa in 2025.
The HIV and TB crisis is far from over in South Africa
Every year on 1 December, South Africa joins the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day. For first world countries with a burden of around one percent, the commemoration becomes exactly that – a remembrance of something from the past. However, circumstances are extremely different for South Africa since our country remains the global epicentre of HIV and is among countries with the highest burden of TB.
There are currently an estimated eight million people living with HIV (PLHIV) in the country
and TB remains a leading cause of death, claiming approximately 56 000 lives every year – 53% of whom are PLHIV. The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies South Africa as a country with a “severely endemic” status of HIV and TB.
HIV infection is rife among young people, particularly in adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) who bear the brunt of the HIV epidemic in Southern Africa. South Africa records an astounding 1 300 new infections per week among AGYW between the ages of 15 and 24 years, the
highest among all age groups. Reasons for this range from simple biology to social and structural drivers. AGYW under the age of 17 years are at an even greater risk since they have an underdeveloped cervix which overexposes the cells that catch HIV when they come into contact with infected bodily fluids. Moreover, the country is ravaged by poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic struggles and therefore, younger women are more likely to engage in age disparate relationships or succumb to transactional
relationships (the blesser-blessee type) where the risk of contracting HIV is heightened.
There is a strong need to push for a full basket of HIV prevention tools designed for women, such as the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring, a long-acting, discreet prevention tool that significantly reduces the risk of transmission during vaginal sex – it gives women full power and total control of their bodies.
Many women are in relationships where the power dynamic renders them powerless and unable to negotiate for safer sex
Dr Thembisile Xulu.
(such as with a condom) which is precisely why interventions like the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring and the newer Long-Acting HIV Prevention Injectables like the two months cabotegravir or the latest six months Lenacapavir injection. The country is also not doing well in its performance towards the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, the deadline of which is next year December 2025, whereupon the race to 2030 will begin.
South Africa is currently sitting at 96-79-93, signalling that the biggest challenge is with the second 95 (initiating and retaining people on antiretroviral therapy). This gap is certified by the number of people currently on sustained treatment. Out of the eight million PLHIV, only six million of them are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment, leaving the country with a gap of two million people that are known to be living with HIV but are not on treatment.
Out of the estimated 304 000 people with active TB, there is a gap of 116 625 people in our communities with infectious TB but are not on treatment. This means the cycle of infection continues, which is concerning when one considers that a single person can infect up to 15 people.
WHO estimates that around 270 000 people fell ill with TB in South Africa in 2023, with around
“Out of the estimated 304 000 people with active TB, there is a gap of 116 625 people in our communities with infectious TB but are not on treatment. This means the cycle of infection continues, which is concerning when one considers that a single person can infect up to 15 people. ”
13 000 falling ill with drug-resistant TB. This places South Africa among ten countries with a triple burden of TB, HIV and MultiDrug-Resistant TB.
Worth noting is that the gender spread for TB in the country is somewhat different compared to HIV – men have a 1.6 times higher risk of developing TB than women and many men are dying of TB. To date, most TB interventions have been biomedical, yet, much like HIV, TB is also subject to social and structural drivers that require multisectoral approaches where all sectors, including communities, are actively involved in TB control measures.
South Africa recently approved a TB Multisectoral Accountability Framework, informed by a WHO Brief, to galvanise all stakeholders to work together in the country’s efforts against TB.
South Africa is classified as the most unequal society in the world, a challenge that is both multifaceted and complex. Not
everyone has the same access to good quality health services either due to affordability or mere structural access.
This is worsened by the stigma and discrimination on the basis of one’s gender, lifestyle or trade.
For instance, transgender persons still struggle to access comprehensive gender affirming health care services without fear of being judged, ridiculed or even denied such services. Sex workers are subject to the same hurdles yet. These are key and priority groups we should reach with targeted prevention interventions in order to ensure we don’t leave anyone behind.
As we commemorate World AIDS Day 2024 under the theme, “Equal Rights, Equal Care”, may we be reminded that HIV and TB are still very much with us, and we dare not be complacent.
These two epidemics are everybody’s business and the question we should all ask ourselves is, ‘how can I contribute to the
country’s efforts against HIV and TB’, since we all have a role play – whether through you making a decision to use a condom, to get tested, get your child tested, to get back on HIV/TB treatment, or to use Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, it is through those little things that we can truly make a difference. ❖
Dr Thembisile Xulu is the Chief Executive Officer of SANAC. She is a seasoned public health practitioner with a special focus on HIV and TB response.
South Africans urged to unite against HIV and Aids
The fight against HIV and Aids requires all South Africans to act together, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile. Addressing the World Aids Day commemoration at the Sisa Dukashe stadium in Mdantsane, in the Eastern Cape, the Deputy President said while significant strides have been made in
ensuring that 95% of people living with HIV know their status, the same cannot be said with respect to ensuring that 95% of people who know their status are on treatment and that 95% of people on treatment are virally suppressed.
“As of June 2024, only 79% of people who knew their status were on treatment, and only 93% of people on treatment were virally suppressed.
“As a country, we need to further increase HIV screening, diagnosis and treatment initiation while maintaining treatment adherence to keep viral suppression rates high. We urge all government departments to incorporate HIV and AIDS, and Tuberculosis [TB] in their workplace health and wellness programmes.
“In the same breath, we call upon political parties, trade unions, student organisations and other formations to encourage their members and support-
ers to know their HIV status and those who know their status to seek treatment and to remain on treatment.
“Our traditional leaders need to continue to use platforms at their disposal, such as community meetings, izimbizo, traditional initiation schools, funerals and such events, to encourage their subjects to test for HIV and TB,” the Deputy President said. He added that government would continuously rely on various stakeholders, such as religious leaders to mobilise all men and women who worship, especially those who are HIV positive and have stopped treatment, to return to care.
Linking people to treatment
The Deputy President welcomed the initiative by the National Department of Health, working together with the South African National AIDS Council (UNAIDA) and development partners, to
Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
trace the 1.1 million people living with HIV and linking them to treatment.
He said linking them to treatment will enable the country to reach the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS targets of 95-95-95. This is 95% of people living with HIV know their HIV status; 95% of people who know their HIV status are receiving HIV treatment and 95% of people on HIV treatment are virally suppressed.
“Let us all play our part and contribute to making this initiative a success,” he said.
South Africa must prioritise community-led responses and interventions to “guarantee that no one falls behind”.
“I would like to urge all the Premiers to make use of the provincial councils on AIDS to mobilise these sectors and others that are active in the provinces to help us find the 1.1 million people.
“All employers and employment organisations must come to the party. This is a genuine battle,
and if we fail to combat HIV and AIDS, it will ultimately lead to our downfall,” the Deputy President said.
There have been many scientific advances in treatment and antiretroviral (ARV) therapy, which have allowed people to live long and productive lives. Scientists are optimistic that improved treatment options can enhance prevention, and they are actively working on a cure and vaccine, he said.
“However, our country remains the epicentre of HIV and is among those with the highest TB burden. There are nearly 8 million people living with HIV, and TB remains the leading cause of death, claiming around 56 000 lives a year.
“We must always be cognisant of the fact that HIV is not only a public health crisis but also a developmental challenge and a human rights matter. Our approaches must be comprehensive, targeted, inclusive and geo-specific.”
Young women at higher risk
The Deputy President said HIV was prevalent among young people, especially adolescent girls and young women between the ages of 15 and 24, with a weekly record of 1 300 new cases. The infection rate among boys of the same age, however, is almost three times less, meaning girls are more vulnerable to HIV infection.
“A variety of factors, including the biological makeup of their bodies and their involvement in age-disparate relationships, contribute to this phenomenon. Nevertheless, we need more interventions designed for adolescent girls and young women.
“I am encouraged by campaigns such as #ForeverWena, a movement that aims to empower youth to take charge of their sexual health. It encourages open, factual and informative discussions about healthy sexual behaviour and choices through its WhatsApp chatbot, a digital
campaign available 24/7 that offers a confidential space for people to access vital information and support”.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane said it was important for everyone to acquire knowledge about HIV and Aids.
“Our people deserve equal rights, equal care despite their status. This is an important day for us, let us have hope,” Mabuyane said.
He said the province would focus on young people. “We have a problem of high teenage pregnancy. Let us teach our children to be responsible,” he said.
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, told the delegates that South Africa needed to put 1. 2 million people on ARV treatment.
“We need to work very hard to reach the 95%,” Motsoaledi said, referring to the UNAIDS targets.
World Aids Day is commemorated annually across the globe in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV as well as to raise awareness about the status of the epidemic, with a view to encourage HIV prevention, treatment and care.
The 2024 theme: “Equal Rights, Equal Care” is a call for equal, equitable and dignified access to healthcare for all South Africans regardless of their economic status, gender, race or sexuality.
– SAnews.gov.za
Deputy President addressing the World Aids Day event in Mdantsane.
Empowering Public Service Through Open Distance eLearning
The need for continuous professional development is more important than ever. With the increasing demand for flexible, cost-effective, and scalable learning opportunities, Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) has emerged as a transformative solution. One institution leading the charge in this space is The National School of Government (NSG), offering a suite of 20 ODeL courses tailored for public servants. These courses are carefully curated to address the evolving learning and development needs of public sector employees and are expanded annually.
A Flexible, Cost-Effective, and Scalable Solution
ODeL is a flexible delivery model that ensures learning can be accessed by individuals regardless of location or time constraints.
This flexibility is particularly beneficial to officials who often manage busy schedules and numerous responsibilities. Through ODeL, they can engage with course materials at their own pace, on their own terms, without the need for travel or time away from their duties.
Moreover, the scalability of the ODeL model is a significant advantage. By offering online courses, the NSG can reach a large audience, expanding its reach to public officials across various levels of government. In addition to its flexibility and scalability, ODeL is a cost-effective learning model. Traditional in-person training programmes can be expensive, not only in terms of course fees but also when accounting for travel, accommodation, and other associated costs. By offering most of its ODeL courses for free, the NSG
is making a significant contribution to the development of public sector employees, ensuring that cost does not become a barrier to learning. This commitment to providing free courses aligns with the School’s mission to promote capable and professional public service.
Supporting National Goals and Professionalisation
The NSG’s ODeL initiative plays a role in implementing the National Framework for the Professionalisation of the Public Sector, which is a key aspect of South Africa’s strategy for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of its public service. The framework is structured around several pillars.
Pillar 2 focuses on, among others, reorienting the public service to meet the demands of citizens
Writer: Fran Greyling
and government. An online Reorientation course reminds public servants of their obligations and equips them with the tools to navigate everyday challenges.
Pillar 4 is dedicated to ensuring continuous professional development for public sector employees. ODeL is an effective vehicle for achieving this goal. By offering a broad range of courses that focus on critical knowledge, skills, and values, the NSG is facilitating ongoing learning and development for public servants. Our free courses are designed to improve performance in the workplace. The courses include an introduction to core management competencies such as strategic planning, leading change, project management, financial management, and human resource management. Additional courses focus on promoting ethical behaviour and fostering
anti-discrimination awareness. The Know and Live Our Constitution course addresses constitutional obligations, providing a foundation for other courses that focus on the responsible and accountable use of government resources. ODeL also supports performance improvement by offering courses that develop practical skills, such as professional writing.
A Catalyst for Online Learning and Development
The COVID-19 pandemic, though a challenge for many industries, proved to be a catalyst for the uptake of ODeL. As in-person learning became impractical due to health restrictions, institutions and organisations turned to on-
line learning as a viable alternative. Public servants embraced the flexibility and accessibility offered by ODeL platforms, allowing them to continue their professional development during a time of uncertainty.
Since the onset of the pandemic, more than 250,000 ODeL opportunities have been created for public officials. These opportunities span all spheres of government and across all provinces in the country. This wide-reaching impact highlights the strong demand for accessible learning and development programmes and the success of ODeL in meeting this need. The high levels of participation and completion are strong indicators that ODeL is addressing genuine learning needs.
Easy Access
The process for enrolling in these courses is straightforward. Public servants can easily access the NSG’s website, browse the available courses, register, and begin their learning journey. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, providing officials with just-in-time learning opportunities.
The ODeL courses currently on offer are the following:
• Championing Anti-discrimination in the Public Service
• Ethics for Internal Auditors
• Ethics in the Public Service
• Financial Management Delegations of Authority
• Generally Recognised Accounting Practice
• Introduction to Financial Management and Budgeting
• Introduction to Leading Change
• Introduction to Policy Formulation and Implementation
• Introduction to Project Management
• Introduction to Strategic Human Resource Management
• Introduction to Strategic Planning and Management
• Know and Live our Constitution
• Managing Performance in the Public Service
• Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts
• Nyukela (Pre-entry into the Public Service)
• Operations Management Framework
• Policy and Procedure on Incapacity Leave and Ill-Health Retirement
• Public Service Reorientation
• Writing for Government: Advanced Writing Skills
• Writing for Government: Basic Writing Skills
Looking Ahead
As the world of public service continues to evolve, the role of ODeL in supporting professional growth and development is becoming increasingly important. The future of learning and development is undoubtedly shifting towards online platforms, and initiatives like ODeL offer new opportunities for growth and learning. Public servants across the country now have greater access to flexible and relevant learning opportunities, helping to enhance their skills and contribute to a more effective public service.
More information is available on the NSG website on www. gov.za or email elearning@ thensg.gov.za and for bookings contactcentre@thensg.gov.za
Dr Fran Greyling is the Chief Director responsible for eLearning at the National School of Government.
Photo: macrovector on Freepik
Local skin and body care brand championing inclusivity
Inclusivity and cultural representation are increasingly reshaping the beauty industry, challenging traditional prevailing standards that often overlooked many Africans traditions.
In this edition, Public Sector Manager magazine features Serenitii Luxury Body Care, a South African body care brand that offers an authentically African range.
The founder and Group Chief Executive, Sarinah Matema-Morgans, explained that the brand tackles common skin concerns like dryness, sensitivity and pigmentation, using indigenous ingredients such as Lipex shea butter and niacinamide to deliver effective solutions.
The brand targets women aged 25 to 50 age group.
Emphasising simplicity and premium ingredients, she added that the brand seeks to bridge the gap between premium and prestige markets, resonating with consumers who value quality and elegance.
“We are mainly a body care brand, therefore our products can be used from the neck going down,” explained the accom-
plished beauty and skin care maven. Matema-Morgans shares her step-by-step body care routine using Serenitii Luxury Body Care products.
First application: 400 ml luxurious oil body wash
“Unlike the usual body wash, ours has a twist to it. We have infused natural extracts such as Moringa oil which is known for combating dryness and discomfort,” she explained.
Second application: 250 ml luxurious body + foot exfoliator
“It detoxes the skin, buffs away the build-up of dead skin cells, reveals new skin, softens and smoothens rough skin, and revives tiresome skin for a youthful appearance,” she said.
Third and fourth application: 250 ml shimmering body oil or body serum
• Water-based body serum
“It boosts hydration, tones the skin, revives tiresome skin for a luminous appearance, helps
to reduce the appearance of dark marks and blemishes, and helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and stretch marks,” she noted.
• Oil-based body serum
“This product is for those struggling with dehydrated skin. It boasts vitamin E, mango butter and kalahari melon known for providing a luminous skin tone,” she said.
For more information, email sarinah@ slbcbysarinah.co.za or follow the brand on social media: Facebook: Serenitii Luxury Body Care By Sarinah, X: @SlbcbySarinah and Instagram: @Serenitii_lbcbysarinah.
Physical Address:
The Innovation Hub
1 Mark Shuttleworth Street Biopark@ Gauteng Lynwood, Pretoria
Accolades:
Serenitii Luxury Body Care and its founder, Sarinah Matema-Morgans, have garnered a range of prestigious awards and recognition for their excellence in the beauty and skincare industry. Among the standout accolades are:
• 2017: "I AM ACE" Best Emerging African Brand – Nigeria
• 2018/19: CEO Today Africa Winner – United Kingdom
• 2018/19: Al Global Excellence Award – Most Outstanding Spa & Retail Beauty Products Supplier – United Kingdom
• 2018/2019: Cherie Blair Foundation Alumni – United Kingdom
• 2019: Finance Monthly; Game Changers Award – United States of America
• 2019: Global Business Award – United States of America
• 2020: Corporate Vision Magazine – Most Influential Leader in Beauty and Cosmetics – United Kingdom
• ExpertHub: 50 Top South African Black Entrepreneurs to Watch
• Entrepreneur Magazine: recognised as one of the Top 50 African Women Entrepreneurs to Watch in South Africa.
• ExpertHub: Featured in the 50 Top SA Black Entrepreneurs to Watch.
• Corporate Vision Magazine (2020): Named Most Influential Leader in Beauty and Cosmetics.
Fifth application: 250 ml shea body butter
“Our award-winning body butter is the ultimate South African secret. Deliciously scented and fast absorbing, it helps smoothen and visibly improves the appearance of skin. Suitable for all skin types,” she added. This routine is set to leave your skin feeling nourished, rejuvenated, and glowing. The products are available at Checkers and Clicks stores nationwide.
* Prices correct at the time of publishing.
Writer:
Soothe your palate with Malumfoodie’s pasta recipe
The rise of social media has enabled many people to explore ways to share their passions with global audiences through content creation.
David Mahlangu is a South African self-taught cook and lifestyle influencer who is passionate about sharing simple, accessible recipes with over 500 000 followers worldwide across various social media platforms.
Known to his followers as a brand Malumfoodie, David has gained fame for his engaging cooking vlogs, blogs and his signature phrase "Rura-Rura," which means to stir. His distinctive cooking style has added a unique flavour to the online culinary world.
“Through Malumfoodie, I have aimed to create connections between families, companies, and people across the globe, all celebrating the joy of food for better well-being,” he said.
Public Sector Manager magazine recently caught up with Malumfoodie at the Tiger Brands Media Cook-off. In this edition, we share his delicious, easy-to-make Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta recipe. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish serves up to six people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
More Matshediso
Photos: Supplied by Gordon SSmag Mnyakeni
Tomato ChickenSpinach Pasta
Ingredients:
• 1 packet of linguine pasta.
• 150 g Sun-dried tomatoes.
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (cut in half).
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
• ¼ cup of olive oil.
• 3 tablespoons of fresh basil.
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme or dried thyme.
• 1 and ½ cup of grated mozzarella cheese.
• 500 ml of fresh cream.
• 1 packet of baby spinach (200 g).
• Salt and pepper (pinch) for taste.
Method
Pasta:
• Boil water with salt in a big pot and add your pasta. Cook for 10 minutes.
• Drain the water and leave ½ cup of water aside.
• Rinse pasta in cold water to
stop it from cooking further.
Sauce:
• In a pan, add olive oil with garlic. Toast the garlic until fragrant.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes with cherry tomatoes. Fry for five minutes then add thyme.
• Add fresh cream and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for two minutes then add fresh basil.
• After letting it simmer again for an extra minute, add spinach and let it cook for five minutes then add pasta water followed by mozzarella. “RuraRura” (stir) until smooth then add salt and pepper (to your liking).
• Immediately, add pasta and switch off the stove, then “Rura-Rura” (mix it well) and let it simmer on the off stove for a minute.
The meal pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing glass of iced tea makes an excellent accompaniment.
About the cook
Mahlangu is a professional air-
craft maintenance engineer but his passion for cooking dates back to his primary school years. He is currently enrolled at a culinary school to enhance his skills.
He enjoys developing recipes, collaborating with brands, creating content, food writing, blogging and hosting cooking classes for various clients. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to designing his own line kitchen utensils, Rura Rura, to connect with his followers through the products. He also blends and brands a variety of spices to bring a unique flavour into people’s kitchens, aimed at bringing a unique Malumfoodie flavour into kitchens and recreating his distinct culinary taste.
Mahlangu offers catering services and has big dreams of one day owning his own culinary school. His achievements include winning the Top Chef Award at the Emerge Africa Awards, being featured in Food and Home magazine and collaborating with SuperSport on a video project. He is currently nominated for the Rising Star category at the Zikomo Africa Awards.❖
Must-visit South African destinations this Holiday Season
Travelers are not always looking for a fun-packed getaway lined up with back-to-back activities, especially at the end of the year. After a long year of hard work, it is important to find ways to unwind and let loose. In this edition, travel blogger Nondumiso Radebe shares local destinations that you can explore this holiday season.
Ever since I turned 40, I have found myself craving holidays that aren’t filled with perpetual activities. Instead, I want to unwind and explore slowly while taking in the local ambiance.
Small towns have become my ideal backdrop for these unwinding escapes, and I’d love to share five of my favourites for anyone
else who’s looking to chill out, explore, and connect this holiday season.
So, pack your bags and let’s embark on a journey to Southbroom, the Midlands, Port Alfred, Hartebeespoort Dam, and Langebaan for the ultimate chillout holiday.
These South African destina-
West Coast National Park, Western Cape.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Photo: SA Tourism
Photo: SA Tourism
tions offer the perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and blissful activities. They can be enjoyed by anyone, including families, solo travellers, romantic couples and friends.
Southbroom in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN): Seaside serenity with a tropical twist
Nestled on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Southbroom is a hidden gem known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and relaxed atmosphere.
Families: Take a scenic beach day at Southbroom Beach, where golden sands and gentle waves offer a safe and fun environment for kids. Nearby, the Southbroom Golf Club welcomes families to enjoy a leisurely game together, with stunning ocean views as a backdrop.
Solo travellers: If you are looking for a bit of adventure mixed with your relaxation, Southbroom is a top surfing destination.
Whether you are a beginner or have your own board, catching waves here can be exhilarating, and you will find surf schools offering lessons for those wanting to dive in. Plus, the local vibe is always friendly, so you may find yourself swapping stories with fellow travellers.
Couples: The unspoiled beaches of Southbroom set the perfect stage for a romantic evening. Consider a picnic as the sun sets or book a couples’ massage at one of the nearby spas. For added adventure, horseback riding along the beach provides a memorable way to reconnect.
The Midlands in KZN: Tranquil countryside and artistic retreats
Known for its rolling hills, artisan markets, and charming Bed and Breakfasts, the Midlands offers a quintessential countryside experience filled with activities that soothe the soul.
Families: Visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site for a family-friendly educational experience, followed by lunch at one of the nearby farm-to-table restaurants. Kiddies can enjoy interactive activities at the Piggly Wiggly, where there are playgrounds, mini-train rides, and even candle-making.
Solo travellers: The Midlands Meander is an artist’s haven. Spend a day exploring art galleries, craft shops, and cafes, each one brimming with local craftsmanship. Consider stopping at a local winery or brewery for a tasting session, the perfect way to unwind solo.
Couples: Find romance at Howick Falls, where a short hike leads to a beautiful waterfall and a scenic viewpoint. For an intimate experience, book a cozy room with a fireplace in one of the Midlands’ quaint guesthouses and share a glass of wine under the stars.
Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape: Coastal charm meets rich history
Situated along the Sunshine Coast, Port Alfred is the ideal location for those looking for a combination of interesting history and relaxed beach ambiance.
Families: Kiddies will love exploring the calm waters of Kowie River. Families can rent a boat for floating or fishing. Children can head over to Kiddies Beach with a picnic for an easy-going day of sun, sand, and family fun.
Solo travellers: The beaches of Port Alfred are ideal for long, contemplative walks. For a bit
Southbroom Beach, KwaZulu-Natal.
Photo: Nondumiso Radebe
more adventure, join a kayak tour on the Kowie River or enjoy some beachside yoga. Don’t miss the Royal Alfred Marina, where the views and calm water bring a sense of serenity.
Couples: Consider a sunset cruise along the Kowie River. The stunning vistas and gentle rhythm of the water provide the perfect romantic escape. End the evening with a candlelit dinner at one of Port Alfred’s waterfront restaurants.
Hartebeespoort Dam in the North-West: Mountain views and outdoor escapes Located near the Magaliesberg mountains, Hartebeespoort Dam is an oasis close to Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng, ideal for a short but refreshing getaway.
Families: Let the kids roam free at the Hartebeespoort Snake and Animal Park. A family boat cruise on the dam can be a fun and scenic way to explore the area while keeping everyone entertained.
Solo travellers: Take the Aerial Cableway for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and landscapes. The serene mountaintop views and walking trails offer a perfect opportunity to unwind alone in nature.
Couples: For a memorable date, book a hot air balloon ride over the dam at sunrise, creating a magical moment to share together. Afterward, enjoy brunch at a local café with a view of the water.
Langebaan in the Western Cape: Beach bliss and water sports haven On the shores of the Langebaan Lagoon, this seaside town is renowned for its natural beauty and relaxed vibe.
Families: Langebaan Lagoon’s calm, shallow waters are ideal for kids to play. Club Mykonos offers family-friendly activities like mini-golf and funfair rides, ensuring both relaxation and excitement for parents and children alike.
Solo Travellers: Head to the
West Coast National Park, where the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings create the ideal setting for relaxation. The park’s flower season in early summer adds a burst of colour, perfect for nature photography or quiet contemplation.
Couples: Walk hand-in-hand along the white sands of Langebaan Beach or take a tandem kayak into the turquoise lagoon. For an unforgettable evening, make reservations at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood as the sun sets over the horizon.❖
Radebe is a travel blogger who is passionate about exploring new destinations and sharing her experiences with others. Through captivating stories, stunning photographs, and practical tips, she aims to inspire fellow adventures and help them plan their own unforgettable journeys. Follow her adventures and stay up-to-date with her latest travel recommendations: www.bentontravel.co.za Instagram: @n_radebe
The Upside Down House in Hartebeespoort.
Photo: Nondumiso Radebe
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities