PSM OCTOBER 2023

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

OCTOBER 2023

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Transport Month Affordable reliable and safe transport for all

Yanga Mputa

ready to take the Office of the Tax Ombud to greater heights

OCTOBER 2023

NDA new strategy focuses more on the poor and vulnerable communities

Contents:

September 2023 REGULARS 10. Conversations with leaders

The transport sector is the heartbeat of economic development, says Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga

14. Women in the public sector

South Africa’s first female Tax Ombud, Yanga Mputa, hits the

ground running 16. Trailblazer

Young engineer, Colani Mnisi, soars in the world of freight rail

18. Profiles in leadership

Ruth Bhengu maps out a new strategy for the National Development Agency

22. From the Union Buildings

We are forging practical partnerships for growth and jobs

FEATURES

14 24. Breast cancer screening can save lives

Early and regular check-ups key in preventing cancer

26. Listening to the voices of learners

Learners gain agency, independence through Representative Council of Learners (RCLs)

28. Energy Bounce Back Loan Guarantee Scheme

Helping small businesses thrive in the energy crisis

30. Knowledge management: an organisational imperative for operational efficiency

Make better use of institutional knowledge to achieve your

22

2

organisation’s goals

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

LIFESTYLE 42. Grooming and style

How to take care of your skin in spring

44. Food and wine

Serving culture and memories on a plate

36

46. Travel

De Hoop offers the complete outdoor experience

44

32. South African Sign Language gives a voice to the voiceless

SA’s 12th official language creates equality among South

Africans 34. Distress to zen: mastering workplace stress and sidestepping burnout

Look out for signs before they take over 36. Young women urged to be resilient in the face of cyberbullying

Fighting harassment and intimidation in media spaces 38. PRASA's sustainable turnaround on track

Government providing safe, affordable and reliable rail transport

Public Sector Manager THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS Publishers: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Enquiries: +27 012 473 0010 Switchboard: +27 012 473 0000 Tshedimosetso House: 1035 Francis Baard Street (corner Festival Street), Hatfield, Pretoria Private Bag X745, Pretoria, South Africa, 0001 www.gcis.gov.za Acting Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa Acting Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Terry Vandayar Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Michael Currin

Head of Editorial and Production Zanele Mngadi Zanelemngadi@gcis.gov.za

46

Managing Editor Tshepo Nkosi tshepon@gcis.gov.za News Editor Miriam Mokoena miriam@gcis.gov.za GCIS Photographic Unit Elmond Jiyane Ntswe Mokoena Siyabulela Duda Kopano Tlape Busisiwe Malungwane Production Assistant Jauhara Khan Graphic Designer Tendai Gonese

Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Regomoditswe Mavimbela

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

3

Writer: Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga

MINISTERS MESSAGE

Celebrating achievements in the transport sector O Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga.

4

ctober marks Transport

across all modes of transport.

world with our splendid safety

Month in South Africa.

We will be telling the good

record and developing airports

The October Transport

story of progress in delivering

not only at home but across the

Month (OTM) Campaign is about

road infrastructure and tackling

continent. We will tell the good

showcasing service delivery and

potholes; rehabilitating and

story of massive investments in

reminding the nation of the cen-

modernising our rail network

public transport with the ever

trality of transport in our daily lives

in the aftermath of COVID-19;

growing footprint of our inte-

– both in our social settings and in

of manufacturing state-of-the-

grated public transport network

enabling economic activity.

art trains for the continent; of

in our cities across provinces.

As part of the OTM, we will be

growing an aviation sector that

While we acknowledge that

showcasing our achievements

continues to be a model for the

challenges in the transport sec-

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

tor loom large, our approach to

a period of immense growth

vices began to take flight, as we

ever, solidifying its position as

this year’s OTM is an expression

and development. The company

shared our best practices with

a world-class airports manage-

of our confidence on the posi-

emerged as a true global player,

airports worldwide, cementing

ment company.

tive impact of our interventions

earning accolades and interna-

our reputation as a leader in the

on the lives of ordinary South

tional recognition for its com-

industry.

Africans.

mitment to excellence. ACSA

The third decade brought forth

Intra-African air transport services

This confidence is aptly

airports played a crucial role in

a mixed bag of challenges and

The ATNS’s responsibility goes

expressed in this year’s OTM

the successful hosting of the

opportunities for ACSA, with

way beyond our borders. The

Campaign theme; “SIYAKHA:

2010 FIFA World Cup, showcas-

the COVID-19 pandemic being

African Union identified the

We are Building Better Transport

ing our nation's capabilities on

the most formidable adversary.

Single African Air Transport

Infrastructure to Grow South

the world stage.

The pandemic forced us to run

Market (SAATM) as one of the

Africa Together”.

During this time, the company

a tight ship and take decisive

fifteen key Agenda 2063 flagship

The campaign comes at a time

embarked on an ambitious ex-

measures to ensure the com-

projects to transform Africa into

when we celebrate anniversa-

pansion programme, expanding

pany's sustainability.

a future global powerhouse.

ries of six of our entities. The Air

its footprint and services to as

ACSA has, however, emerged

traffic Navigation Service (ATNS)

far as Brazil and India.

from this challenging period

single air transport market in

and the Airports Company

Moreover, ACSA's advisory ser-

stronger and more resilient than

Africa through full liberalisation

SAATM seeks to create one

South Africa (ACSA) mark their 30-year anniversaries, while the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA), the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL), the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) are celebrating 25 years since their establishment.

These entities have touched the lives of ordinary South Africans. ACSA has evolved and thrived, achieving significant milestones and successes that have not only reshaped the aviation landscape in our country, but have also earned global recognition. The company’s first decade was dedicated to establishing a solid institutional foundation.

The second ACSA decade was

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

5

MINISTERS MESSAGE

of intra-African air transport ser-

surveillance environment within

has been operational in South

providers of such training in the

vices regarding market access

our area of responsibility.

Africa since June 2023.

country. Consequently, ATNS

and traffic rights for scheduled

It intends to introduce com-

The Aviation Training Acad-

serves as a primary employer

and freight air services by eligi-

prehensive situational aware-

emy is a premium provider of air

of ATCs. We are addressing the

ble airlines, thereby improving

ness across our entire area of

traffic service and aviation train-

human capital development

air services connectivity and air

responsibility (over 6% of the

ing – not only in South Africa

challenges by moving the ATC

carrier efficiencies.

world’s airspace) by introduc-

but on a continental scale. Being

training model into the academic

Remote digital towers are

ing this service into our existing

an International Civil Aviation

space through appropriate

growing in their deployment

technology portfolio.

Organization (ICAO) Regional

Department of Higher Education

around the world and ATNS is

One of ATNS’s proudest works

Training Centre of Excellence,

and Training registration and

currently finalising a project to

is a ground-breaking partner-

our training products are world-

Council on Higher Education

deploy this technology in the

ship with Aireon, enabling it to

class, stretching beyond just air

accreditation.

medium term.

improve its satellite technology

traffic control (ATC) training but

The SACAA is also celebrating

The company commenced

tracking capability.

many other disciplines across

25 years of existence. This could

with the space-based Automatic

Aireon provides the global air

the aviation value chain.

not have come at a better place,

Dependent Surveillance-Broad-

traffic surveillance system using

The specialist nature of ATC

with the entity having received a

cast (ADS-B) service operational

a space-based ADS-B network,

training and the current gap

10th successive clean audit.

trials in 2022, to evaluate the

making it possible to extend the

within the academic space in

The SACAA continues to

deployment viability of the tech-

visibility of aircraft across the

providing training for aspiring

punch above its weight in ensur-

nology to support the current

planet in real-time. The system

ATCs means that we are primary

ing safe aviation operations in

6

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

the country. In the recent ICAO

As a further demonstration

Through the reduction of

agement System to enhance

audit, South Africa surpassed

of how SANRAL is assisting in

operational constraints, regulat-

the required harmonisation

the 90% mark in ICAO’s safety

the recovery of the country’s

ing market access and issuing

programme efforts in the SADC.

audit, becoming the first in

economy,in 2022/23, it awarded

permits, the C-BRTA plays a

This is achievable by providing a

Africa to achieve this milestone.

320 tenders to the value of R51

vital role in the socio-economic

common technology platform for

We are currently ranked number

billion, up from the R22 billion

development of South Africa and

the issuing and management of

one in Africa in terms of ICAO

awarded in the preceding year.

the Southern African Develop-

cross-border permits. It will also

rankings.

SANRAL also offers an

ment Community (SADC).

facilitate seamless cross-border

In addition, the South African

extensive training and capacity-

To achieve ease of cross-

road transport movements and

cargo security system continues

building campaign that targets

border road transportation

trade flows across border posts

to be recognised by the United

more than 40 000 SMMEs over

the C-BRTA has developed an

and corridors connecting the

States’ (US) Transport Secu-

a three-year period, and which

Integrated Cross-Border Man-

participating pilot countries.

rity Administration and by the

will, among others, effectively

European Union (EU) in terms

teach them to submit compli-

of their Third Country Airport

ant, competitive and profitable

programme, meaning that the

tenders.

country’s cargo operators can

The agency’s skills develop-

conduct business in both the

ment programme encapsulates

US and EU without the need to

its scholarship and bursary

undergo individual assessments

programme for both high school

by both these counterparts.

and tertiary students. It also

SANRAL is one of the key driv-

includes an in-house training

ers of the country’s economic

academy that prepares engi-

recovery through its infra-

neering graduates towards their

structure build programme. Its

professional registration, thus

procurement policy requires that

ensuring that SANRAL grows its

30% of main upgrade projects is

pool while also training engi-

ring-fenced for Small, Medium

neers for the rest of the country.

and Micro enterprises (SMMEs),

The university faculty chairs

notably youth and women-

that are sponsored by SANRAL

owned businesses, many of

ensure that South Africa remains

whom receive their first experi-

at the cutting edge of tertiary

ence in the construction and

training.

engineering sectors by working

Another entity celebrating 25

on SANRAL projects. This 30%

years is the Cross-Border Road

sub-contracting policy will go a

Transport Agency (the C-BRTA).

long way in mainstreaming pre-

The agency supports the South

viously disadvantaged groups

African economy by facilitat-

into the road construction sector

ing the seamless movement of

and other sectors in which SAN-

goods and passengers across

RAL is active.

various borders.

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

7

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Creating an inclusive society for everyone to thrive T his month, as we mark

opment of the deaf community,

our nation’s commitment

as well as on their access to

to caring for the most

information and services. It will

vulnerable in society, we also

not only promote and protect

celebrate a milestone towards this

their rights but will facilitate the

commitment – the recognition

provision of sign language in-

of the South African Sign Lan-

terpreters and education in sign

guage (SASL) as the 12th official

language.

language.

While the language has long

Last month South Africa joined

been part of curriculum in our

the rest of the world in com-

schools, preparations are under-

memorating International Month

way to ensure it is available as a

for Deaf People to promote

second additional language. This

awareness of the rights of deaf

will mean that learning and tak-

persons around the world. Lo-

ing the language as an additional

cally, the commemorations were

language is not restricted for Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting GCIS Director-General.

held under the befitting theme of; “Celebrating the officialisation

learners with special needs.

As decision-makers in the pub-

of South African Sign Language

and substantive equality. It will

to the Convention on the Rights

lic sector, we need to review our

for an inclusive and linguistically

prevent unfair discrimination on

of Persons with Disabilities.

language policies to include the

diverse nation”.

the grounds of disability, as en-

In 2012, the Department of

SASL as is the case with other

The commemorations came a

shrined in the Constitution of the

Basic Education commissioned a

official languages. Government

few months after President Cyril

Republic of South Africa, 1996.

team to compile a sign language

departments and public institu-

Ramaphosa signed into law the

Government strives to continu-

curriculum and just over two

tions should make provisions

SASL Bill, making South Africa

ously improve the lives on South

years later offered a standardised

for SASL interpreters. Public

the 41st country in the world and

Africans and create equal-

SASL curriculum to deaf learners

servants, particularly front-line

the fourth in Africa to recognise

ity among citizens. There are

up to matric level. In addition, in

workers should be taught basic

sign language as an official

various achievements we have

2022 South Africa developed the

SASL.

language.

made since 1994 to ensure that

first bilingual SASL Dictionary,

Let us all lead by example

The historic moment marked

the deaf community’s rights are

which is available as an app on

and learn our new 12th official

an important step towards

realised. In 2007, for instance,

smartphones to provide a stand-

language. By doing so, we can

the realisation of the rights of

South Africa signed and ratified

ardised SASL lexical terminology.

create an inclusive society that

persons who are deaf or hard

the United Nations Convention

The signing into law of the

creates space for everyone to

of hearing. This milestone also

on the Rights of Persons with

SASL as an official language will

thrive and enjoy the gains of our

highlights government’s com-

Disabilities and in 2013, Cabinet

also have a positive impact on

democracy.

mitment to promote inclusivity

adopted the country’s first report

the social and economic devel-

8

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Image: Matthew Henry on Unsplash

Writer: More Matshediso Images: PRASA

FEATURE CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

Transport sector is the heartbeat of economic development

Minister Chikunga at the official launch of the KwaMashu to Durban rail service.

T

he transport sector in the

Campaign under the theme; “Si-

job creation and enforced inclu-

achievements, challenges and

country is making strides in

yakha: We are building a better

sive economic participation in

the contribution that the trans-

recovering from the effects

transport infrastructure to grow

the country,” said the Minister.

port sector is making towards

of the COVID-19 pandemic and

South Africa together”.

The Department of Transport

the country’s economic recovery

is making progress in addressing

She reflected on the transport

is responsible for regulation and

agenda.

challenges that it faces.

sector as the heartbeat that

coordination of transportation in

Transport Minister Sindisiwe

fosters social and economic

South Africa, including road, rail,

Chikunga recently launched the

development.

civil aviation and maritime.

Recovering from effects of COVID-19

2023 October Transport Month

“The sector significantly aided

She highlighted government’s

“The sector is still recovering

10

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the restrictions on movement impacted negatively on transport operations across the different modes,” she said.

To mitigate the negative effects of the pandemic on the economy, government developed and continues to implement the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan since October 2020, prioritising infrastructure spending as a critical enabler to speeding up economic growth.

National Treasury, the Infra-

also collaborated with other in-

South African economy,

tariff methodology that the

structure Fund and Infrastruc-

stitutions such as Infrastructure

supporting about 472

authority must create jobs,

ture South Africa came up with

South Africa and the Develop-

000 jobs and contributing

improve existing and build

initiatives to improve the scale,

ment Bank of Southern Africa

around R154 billion to the

new infrastructure to ad-

speed and efficiency of infra-

to ensure the delivery of these

country’s gross domestic

dress port inefficiencies,”

structure spending by creating

projects.

product.

the Minister said.

a pipeline of priority projects,

Furthermore, a number of

Maritime: South Africa

Passenger rail: Over the

doing project appraisal and at-

entities under the Department

derives its maritime in-

past year, Passenger Rail

tracting private sector participa-

of Transport continue to show

terests from its trade and

Agency of South Af-

tion and financing.

commitment to respond to the

geo-economic structure,

rica (PRASA) has gained

“The first 62 priority infrastruc-

clarion call on job creation and

its geo-political aspira-

ground in its efforts to

ture projects were gazetted in

easing the costs of travel, while

tions and the obligations

recover the passenger rail

2020 and more than R340 billion

also developing industries in the

arising from being a

network, rebuild pas-

of funding had been committed

area of infrastructure develop-

regional power located at

senger rail corridors and

from the private sector. An ad-

ment.

the southern tip of Africa.

move commuters on the

ditional 51 top priority infra-

Transport sector high-

Minister Chikunga said the

new blue modern trains,

structure projects, which were

lights Aviation sector:

sector continues to de-

Isitimela Sabantu.

declared strategically important

The South African airport

velop and has potential to

“To date, 18 corridors have

with a value of around R595

network consists of 135 li-

contribute substantially to

been recovered out of the 40

billion and with a funding gap

censed airports, 19 military

the economy and support

corridors operated by PRASA

of around R441 billion were un-

airports, and up to 1 300

the National Development

in Gauteng, Western Cape and

veiled in 2021,” said the Minister.

unlicensed aerodromes.

Plan. “The Ports Regulator

KwaZulu-Natal, with a total of

She added that some of the

Nine of the major airports

of South Africa through

230 stations refurbished to basic

projects have been identified

are managed and oper-

the tariff application pro-

functionality. Trains are running

with an investment value of

ated by the Airports Com-

cess has allowed Transnet

in major cities such as Cape

R84.5 billion in the transport

pany South Africa (ACSA).

National Ports Authority to

Town, Johannesburg, Durban,

sector, telecommunications, as

According to Minister the

raise funding of R14 billion

Pretoria and Ekurhuleni. By the

well as water and sanitation.

air transport sector makes

in the 2023/24 financial

end of this financial year, PRASA

Government departments have

a major contribution to the

year. It is through this

will have recovered 80% >>

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

11

CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

the country’s GDP in the same year.

The latest GDP results for the first quarter of 2023 show these sectors increase by 1.1%, contributing 0.1 of a percentage points to GDP growth.

“This is due to the rise in rail freight and rail passenger transport. Land transport, air transport, and transport support services also reported positive growth in economic activities,” Hammarsdale Interchange on the N3 between Durban and Pietermaritzberg.

added the Minister.

Stats SA’s Quarterly Labour

of the passenger rail corridors

is in a generally poor

(IPTN), seven cities were al-

Force Survey reported an

and lines, while bringing to our

condition compared to

ready operational by mid-2022.

increase in employment of 258

people a modernised passenger

the international bench-

These include MyCiTi in Cape

000 in the first quarter of 2023,

train experience,” added the

marks. To address this,

Town, Rea Vaya in Johannes-

following an increase of 169 000

Minister.

government has invested

burg, A Re Yeng in Pretoria, Go

in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Since the recovery of the

R26 billion in the upgrade

George in George, Harambee

The number of people employed

services, more than 16 million

and general maintenance

in Ekurhuleni, Libhongolethu in

in the transport sector increased

people have been connected to

on the N3. “The sections

Nelson Mandela Bay, and Leeto

by 992 000 in the first quarter of

economic hubs and opportuni-

currently being upgraded

la Polokwane in Polokwane.

2023 as compared to 982 000 in

ties of employment. To date,

are the 19-kilometre (km)

The Minister said the IPTN

the fourth quarter of 2022.

PRASA has invested R3.667

stretch from Cato Ridge

is central to the functioning of

The Minister revealed that the

billion in rail recovery, includ-

to Dardanelles, commonly

hubs of economic activity as

largest producers dominating

ing the refurbishment of the

known as Umlaas Road;

they provide sustainable, afford-

the provincial economic growth

stations.

the 26.6-km section from

able and functional transport

performance are Gauteng,

solutions to urban commuters.

KwaZulu-Natal and the Western

This has led to the creation

the Dardanelles Inter-

of 6 040 jobs, of which 856 are

change to Lynnfield Park;

women and over 4 000 employ-

and the 30-km stretch

ment opportunities were cre-

from Lynnfield Park to the

Job creation and economic development

Cape.

Although the Department of Transport and its entities have

ated for young people. A total

Ashburton Interchange.

of 211 small businesses have

“Apart from resolving chronic

According to Statistics South

tors, the Minister acknowledged

also benefited from PRASA’s

traffic by creating greater mobil-

Africa (Stats SA), the transport,

that public sector capacity to

recovery projects, boosting local

ity through the construction

storage, and communication

implement projects and meet

economies and their wellbeing.

of additional traffic lanes, the

sectors reported a growth

the growing infrastructure need

Road transport: The pri-

upgrading of the N3 will result

of 8.6% and contributed 0.6

is currently inadequate, thus

mary road infrastructure

in increased safety,” the Minister

percentage points to the gross

compelling government to col-

is fairly in good condi-

explained.

GDP in 2022. The sectors

laborate with the private sector

tion, but the secondary

With regard to the Integrated

contributed an added value of

to provide efficient and sustain-

provincial road network

Public Transport Networks

approximately R362.5 billion to

able transport infrastructure.

12

made strides in various sec-

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Writer: Sihle Manda

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

First female tax ombud hits ground running S

outh Africa’s tax regime is

at National Treasury. Before

University of Transkei),

considered one of the best

that she was a Tax Specialist at

a Master of Laws

in the world, and the Office

SARS from 2009.

Degree from the

of the Tax Ombud (OTO) has the

Mputa is equipped with

University of

supreme task of ensuring that the

extensive tax technical skills

the Witwa-

grievances of taxpayers against

and experience, encompass-

tersrand,

the South African Revenue Service

ing personal income tax for

Master in

(SARS) are addressed and that

high-net-worth individuals and

Commerce

everyone gets their due refund.

expatriates, employment tax

Degree in

Yanga Mputa, who was re-

issues, retirement tax matters.

cently appointed Tax Ombud, is

She also has expertise in busi-

at the coalface of this daunting

ness tax aspects, exemptions

task. Her tenure is for five years.

and incentives, international tax

The OTO reviews and address-

affairs, exchange control issues

es any complaints by taxpayers

related to tax, and financial sec-

against SARS to ensure fairness

tor taxation topics.

in the tax collection.

She holds Baccalau-

In July 2023, Mputa became

reus Procurationis

the first woman appointed to the

(BProc) and

position. She succeeded retired

Bachelor of

former Gauteng Judge President

Laws degrees

Bernard Ngoepe. Established in

from the Wal-

2013, the OTO has been around

ter Sisulu

for 10 years.

University

From 2014 until her recent

(former-

appointment, she worked as

ly the

International Tax from NorthWest University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Tax Law from the University of KwaZuluNatal.

Barely three months into her five-year tenure, Mputa, an admitted attorney of the high court, has set herself lofty goals.

She is full of praise for Judge Ngoepe, her predecessor, for steering the office in the “right direction” and leaving the OTO

Chief Director: Legal Tax Design

14

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

in “good standing”.

and administrative experience to

SARS,” she says.

implies that jobs have been

As former Judge President of

get things done in her new role.

“The budget of the OTO was

saved, houses have been saved

the North and South Gauteng

“I come from the policy side.

[disbursed] directly by the Min-

and children are still able to go

High Courts, Ngoepe heard and

I know what is required from

ister of Finance, but SARS is just

to school.”

decided seminal cases, includ-

[National] Treasury side in terms

the accounting officer. So, there

During the 2021/22 financial

ing business and tax matters.

of tax policy and I know what is

is independence even there.

year, the OTO resolved 1 561

He was also responsible for as-

required from the SARS side in

The employees of the OTO are

accepted complaints. Over this

signing judges to Tax Courts.

terms of tax administration. The

employed by the OTO but using

period, the office received

“The nice thing is that all the

experience of both policy and

the SARS Act [of 1997]".

17 249 contacts. These consist-

senior managers who started

administration will assist taxpay-

This, she said, was the most

ed of 13 284 queries and

the office with him are still here.

ers,” she says.

cost-effective approach. Any

3 965 complaints. The collective

I have a good relationship with

She is satisfied with the in-

other method would have

value of the top 10 refunds paid

the Chief Executive Officer, Pro-

dependence of her office from

required that the OTO have its

to taxpayers amounted to

fessor Thabo Legwaila because

SARS and other state institu-

own Chief Financial Officer,

R215 million.

at some stage we were both

tions. “Our decisions against

among other functionaries.

Mputa says reach and foot-

directors at [National]

print remain a chal-

Treasury reporting to

lenge. “Most people

“When the office intervenes in paying

one chief director. We have known each from 2006. I have interacted with the staff when I was still at SARS, more

do not know about

back the refunds, it implies that jobs have been saved, houses have been saved and

so when they were doing changes to the

children are still able to go to school.”

the office. If we drive awareness to try and serve the underserved communities, more people will come [forward],” she adds.

A bulk of the com-

Tax Administration Act, [2011 (Act 28 of 2011)] (TAA)

taxpayers are final; we don’t

“We are an office of 40 people.

plaints are from Gauteng, West-

in 2016,” Mputa says.

request SARS’ input when we

Currently, our budget in terms

ern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

She foresees no challenges

make our decisions, and we

of the division of revenue is R52

If SARS does not resolve

with taking the OTO to greater

don’t even request input from

million. So, if we have our own

OTO’s complaints, what are the

heights. "South Africa follows a

the Minister of Finance.”

procurement, IT and HR, that

sanctions can the office bring to

system of voluntary tax compli-

However, the OTO is still struc-

can balloon our budget to about

bear on SARS? “Currently, there

ance – we do self-assessment

turally dependent on SARS for

R120 million. When [National]

are none,” she admits.

– when you do self-assessment

human resources (HR), informa-

Treasury looked at this, [they

“We are not like the Pension

you must be aware of your

tion technology (IT), and pro-

thought] of a way to do this in a

Fund Adjudicator whereby we

rights so that people can pay

curement processes. “I was still

cost-effective manner,” she says.

can take someone to court. We

what is due,” she reiterates.

at [National] Treasury when the

The functional independence

depend on a good relation-

This, she emphasises, means

OTO started. In 2017, we made

of the OTO cannot be ques-

ship with SARS. So far, SARS

that SARS’s tax revenue col-

changes to the Tax Administra-

tioned, she maintains. “We have

has resolved about 98% of our

lection efforts are not im-

tion Act, [2011 (Act 28 of 2011)]

been able to assist taxpayers.

complaints. Maybe the issue

peded. For this reason, Mputa

for the budget of the OTO to be

When the office intervenes

is how long it takes to resolve

is ready to lean on her policy

ring-fenced from the budget of

in paying back the refunds, it

complaints.”

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

15

TRAILBLAZER

Writer: Sihle Manda

Young engineer soars in freight rail world

I

t is often said that curiosity is the engine of achievement.

This notion rings true for Colani Mnisi, a junior engineer in train design technologies and practising railway engineering at Transnet

Freight Rail (TFR).

In late August, the 29-year-old walked away with the Best Paper Award at the 2023 International Heavy Haul Association (IHHA) Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for his paper titled; 312 Wagon ECPB WDP Longest Train Service. He authored the paper with fellow TFR engineer, Nonkululeko Cele (25), and it came out tops among the 500 submissions.

At TFR, his roles include the development of new train services, yard evaluations, derailment investigation, in-service testing, simulations, commissioning tests, and evaluation of train configurations. He has been at the parastatal since 2018.

In an interview with Public Service Manager magazine, Mnisi, who hails from Mooiplaas, Mpumalanga, said the paper was about the development and implementation of a longer and more efficient train configuration for rail operations.

The paper discusses the benefits of longer trains, and the challenges associated with designing and implementing them. The paper also includes data analysis and graphs to illustrate the performance of the 312-wagon train and its impact on rail operations.

“Overall, the paper aims to explore the tactics used to maximise

16

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

resource utilisation in rail

I could contribute to designing

operations and to highlight the

and building solutions that have

importance of intelligent design

a real impact on society.”

in optimising rail transport,”

The dynamic nature of rail-

Mnisi explained.

ways, he added, means that

The paper also brings several

there is always something new

theoretical benefits, includ-

to learn and explore.

ing improving efficiency and

“The field of railways is at

flexibility by freeing up an ad-

the intersection of technology,

ditional slot after every second

mathematics, and domain-

train, either for additional traffic

specific knowledge, making it a

or track access. “It also outlines

rich and multidisciplinary area

the increases in the number

for continuous growth. This

of wagons running from 3 200

constant evolution keeps me

wagons to 3 744 wagons per

excited about my work,” Mnisi

day, allowing for loaded trains

said.

to run in the freed-up slots cre-

experience are not always bar-

Engineering in Mechanical

While his career aspirations

ated,” he said.

riers to recognition and success

Engineering from the University

have evolved over the years, his

While the IHHA recognition

in the engineering field,” he said.

of Johannesburg in 2018.

central mission in life is to make

The following year he was

a positive impact in society and

recruited into the TFR’s technol-

leave a lasting legacy. “I aspire

many talented and experienced

The attraction to engineering

ogy management unit in Preto-

to make a meaningful difference

professionals presenting their

His venture into the complex

ria on a two-year programme as

in my field, whether through

work at the conference, and I

world of engineering was de-

an engineer-in-training, where

my contributions to ground-

felt honoured that our paper

liberate.

he was involved in technolo-

breaking research, innovative

was recognised in this way. It

“At home, we were a family of

gies for the operation side of

technologies, or transformative

was a testament to the hard

11 children, raised by both our

the organisation’s rolling stock,

projects. I want to leave behind

work and dedication of our

parents and our grandmother.

which includes various types of

a legacy of excellence and

project team,” he conceded.

Having such a big family in-

wagons and locomotives.

innovation that inspires others

He also credited innovation,

stilled in me a strong work ethic

“I have always enjoyed dis-

long after I have retired,” he

clear communication, practical

and a love for the outdoors

mantling toys and devices to

envisions.

relevance, and a collaborative

because there were too many of

understand their inner mecha-

Additionally, Mnisi values

approach for the paper’s suc-

us at home,” he recalled.

nisms,” he said. “Mechanical en-

ethics in his field. “I hope to be

cess at the IHHA Conference.

He reminisced how as a child

gineering stood out because of

remembered for my commit-

The recognition has also

exploring the nearby woods and

its broad applicability. It touches

ment to ethical and responsible

boosted his confidence as a

streams ignited his passion for

on almost every aspect of our

practices. Conducting myself

young professional, encourag-

innovation and conservation.

lives, from the machines we

with integrity, fairness, and em-

ing him to dream of even more

After matriculating from

use daily to the development

pathy has always been a priority

ambitious projects and collabo-

Highveld Secondary School,

of cutting-edge technologies. I

for me,” he concluded.

rations in the future. “Age and

Mnisi obtained a Bachelor of

was captivated by the idea that

was humbling for Mnisi, it took him by surprise. “There were so

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

17

Writer: More Matshediso

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

NDA maps out new strategy of fighting poverty T

18

he new Chairper-

to establish systems in

son of the Nation-

government that are

al Development

designed to enable

Agency (NDA) Board

communities to provide

Nozabelo Ruth Bhengu

for themselves,” Bhengu

believes that public serv-

says.

ants can contribute to

“Currently, many pub-

poverty eradication by

lic servants are more

firstly getting knowledge

knowledgeable about

about why cooperatives

the tender system and

and community devel-

service delivery system,

opment initiatives are

but know little about

important.

enabling communities

“If public servants

to sustain themselves.”

could empower them-

Additionally, she be-

selves with this knowl-

lieves that various key

edge, they will be able

government depart-

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

ments need to collaborate

families and communities that

Political Economy from Uni-

She has served as a Mem-

with the NDA so they could

can provide for themselves,”

versity of Western Cape.

ber of Parliament for 17

jointly fight poverty in the

she says.

“Welgespruit trained me

years and chaired various

in community economic

portfolio committees, includ-

development and the concept

ing Sport and Recreation;

of cooperatives. Commu-

Provincial and Local Govern-

nity economic development

ment; Transport; Planning,

country.

magazine about the new turn-

A seasoned community developer

around strategy of the NDA in

Bhengu has more than 37

comprises programmes that

Infrastructure and Economic

line with the Social Develop-

years’ work experience, hav-

speak to poverty eradication

Development; and Small

ment Month commemoration.

ing begun her career journey

and building sustainable com-

Business Development. She

Social Development Month

in the early 1980s through the

munities,” she says.

has also served as the Deputy

is commemorated annually

Ubuntu Development Institute

Her experience also includes

Mayor of Ugu District Munici-

in October to mark South

of Wilgespruit Fellowship

being a founding member

pality in KwaZulu-Natal.

Africa’s commitment to caring

Centre under the Self-help

of the Imbali Rehabilitation

Bhengu recently spoke to Public Sector Manager

society.

NDA’s new turnaround strategy

“It is important for

When she became chairper-

for the most vulnerable in

everybody in the country to commemorate Social Development Month in order to remember that the social ills are the responsibility of us all,” she says.

“Various key government

departments need to collaborate

with the NDA so they could jointly fight poverty in the country.”

son of the NDA Board, the previous strategy was coming to an end. She attended two workshops in which she and members of the board were taken through the strat-

Bhengu assumed her posi-

egy. She picked up that the

tion at the NDA in January

entity was trying to eradicate

2023. The NDA falls under

poverty through capacitating

the ambit of the Department

Associates Development

Programme, the Coordinator

the civil society organisations

of Social Development (DSD)

Economics Programme.

of the Programme for Sur-

(CSOs) in the hope that they

and its mission is to eradicate

Over the years, she has ob-

vivors of Violence, founding

would get families and com-

poverty in the country.

tained a number of qualifica-

member of SANCO Develop-

munities out of poverty.

“The department has two

tions, including certificates in

ment Institute, member of

Bhengu says the new turn-

entities – the NDA and the

Community Development and

the United Nations Study led

around strategy seeks to

South African Social Security

Facilitation from the Ubuntu

by Mrs Graça Machel on the

focus more on the affected

Agency (SASSA). SASSA is

Development Institute, Co-

Impact of political violence on

person, who is poor, and the

the right arm of the depart-

operatives Development and

children, member of Peace

affected community, which

ment and it responds to social

Change Management from

and Justice Committee of the

is underdeveloped. She adds

and economic issues. The

the Coady International In-

PMB SACC, and developer of

that the DSD and SASSA

NDA is the left arm respon-

stitution of St. Francis Xavier

the Cooperatives Based Com-

need to understand the strat-

sible for eradicating poverty

University in Canada, and

munity Economic Develop-

egy because the beneficiaries

and developing sustainable

Development Economics and

ment Model.

of their programmes are >>

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

19

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

the same people that the NDA

Public Works and Infrastruc-

She says the new turn-

Bhengu is of the point that

wants to lift out of poverty.

ture, and Small Business

around strategy will inform a

that temporary jobs or social

“A child who was born in an

Development, among others.”

new five-year strategic plan

grants cannot eradicate pov-

RDP house is the same child

Bhengu says the role of the

that the NDA will develop for

erty. Rather, more meaningful

that the NDA wants to prevent

NDA is to identify the skills or

2024 – 2029.. This time the

work is required to get poor

from queuing for the RDP

the kind of empowerment the

strategic plan will not focus

citizens out of poverty.

house when they are older or

beneficiaries need, and the

solely on building the capac-

expect government to provide

relevant department should

ity of the CSOs or mobilising

Achievements

for them. The NDA aims to

then fund the suitable project

them.

In the 2022/23, the NDA was

empower them so they can

facilitated by the NDA.

“The approach is to identify

able to achieve its service

provide for themselves,” she

She says the new strategy

problems that need to be ad-

delivery targets and raised

says.

includes the role that the

dressed and figure out what

resources from partnerships to

“The NDA cannot achieve

private sector needs to play

needs to be done to address

the tune of R100 million (R35

this goal on its own. It has to

in poverty eradication. “The

those problems, and when

million was the target), which

work with other government

NDA will start implementing

and how they are going to

resulted in the creation of 3

departments that are also

the new turn-around strategy

be addressed. After identify-

175 work opportunities, train-

mandated to address social

in the 2024/25 financial year.

ing the problems, the NDA

ing 3 124 the organisations

and economic ills, including

We cannot give a timeframe

would invite the CSOs that

and grant funding CSOs to the

the departments of Human

on how long it will take to im-

have capacity to present ways

value of R16 million to further

Settlement, Higher Education

plement at the moment,” she

in which they will tackle the

development programmes in

and Training, Basic Education,

explains.

problems,” she says.

poor communities.

20

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS FEATURE

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa

We are forging practical partnerships for growth and jobs W

hile we have made

because an economy that is

significant progress

growing slowly cannot create

in recovering from

enough jobs. It can also not

the devastating effects of the

generate enough revenue for

COVID-19 pandemic, most South

government to fully implement

Africans are feeling the pres-

the programmes needed to

sure of rising prices and a slow

improve people’s lives. The fact

economy.

that the country’s debt service

The economy is now larger

costs are the fastest growing

than it was before the pandem-

budget item means that spend-

ic and the two million jobs that

ing on education, health, social

were lost have largely been

protection and infrastructure

recovered. Yet the combination

come under even greater pres-

of global economic instability

sure.

and the effects of our electric-

We have therefore given the

ity crisis have meant that our

pursuit of inclusive economic

economy continues to grow

growth the greatest priority.

too slowly and is unable to cre-

We are acting with increased

ate jobs at the pace we need.

focus and effort to remove the

While government has

22

most immediate constraints

done much to implement the

Recently, together with sever-

agreed to work more closely

on growth – and doing so to-

Economic Reconstruction

al Cabinet colleagues, I held a

to address the immediate

gether with our social partners.

and Recovery Plan, which we

meeting with business leaders

challenges that confront South

Our collaboration with busi-

launched in October 2020,

organised under the umbrella

Africa’s economy. We will be

ness, for example, has moved

we have always maintained

of Business for South Africa.

meeting again soon to dis-

far beyond discussions. Since

that the success of our efforts

Last month, I met with the

cuss the areas where we can

June this year, government

would depend on greater part-

leadership of the country’s four

deepen cooperation.

has been working closely with

nership across society.

labour federations, where we

These efforts are important

Business for South Africa on

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

critical actions to address the key challenges of energy, logistics, and crime and corruption.

The recent meeting confirmed that good traction has been achieved in these areas, most notably in the work being done by the National Energy Crisis to end load shedding and achieve energy security.

A good example of the work being done is the mobilisation by business of additional capacity and skills to support the recovery of Eskom’s power plants. This includes the deployment of technical support teams to five power stations, Kendal, Kriel, Majuba, Matla and Tutuka, and experts to help

of the bulk freight rail network

industry and the South African

negotiated agreements, that

speed up the repair of units at

and port system through the

Police Service to address

gives meaning to the concept

Kusile power station that were

National Logistics Crisis Com-

crimes targeting infrastructure.

of a social compact that is

damaged in November last

mittee. Corridor recovery teams

This work is being made

based on achievable outcomes.

year. In the last weekend of

have been established for five

possible by the willingness

Yet, while we have together

September, Kusile Unit 3 was

strategic rail corridors, com-

and determination of all social

identified key milestones and

returned to service two months

prising Transnet executives,

partners to collaborate on

timeframes, the success of all

earlier than planned.

industry representatives and

practical actions that make a

these efforts will ultimately be

Full implementation of the

independent experts. They are

measurable difference in the

measured by their impact on

plan to improve the perfor-

working to urgently increase

performance of our economy.

the lives of the South African

mance of Eskom’s existing

the volume of freight traffic on

While these partnerships

people.

power stations, add new

our rail lines.

may take different forms and

From the progress that has

generation capacity and reform

Through this collabora-

may be at different stages of

been made to date, I am cer-

the energy sector is expected

tion, business is working with

advancement, both business

tain that this is a task at which

to result in over 12 000 mega-

government to build capacity

and labour have shown their

we will together succeed.

watts of generation capacity

within the National Prosecuting

commitment to work with

being recovered or added to

Authority and the Hawks, along

government to address these

the system by the end of 2024.

with the modernisation of the

challenges.

Work is underway to improve

10111 emergency response cen-

It is this kind of cooperation

the operational performance

tre and collaboration between

in action, even more so than

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

From the desk of The President was published on 2 October 2023.

23

FEATURE

Source: CANSA

Breast cancer

screening can save lives W

ith the incidence of

National Manager: Health

to detect any irregularities.

breast cancer among

Promotion, said her organisation

Patients can claim from their

South African women

plays an important role in creat-

medical aids once they have

being on the increase, the Cancer

ing awareness and educating

paid for the screening. Women

Association of South Africa (CAN-

women about breast cancer.

are entitled to an annual clinical

SA) urges women to go for annual

“Research has shown that a

breast examination when visiting

health check-ups and screen-

regular breast self-examination

primary health care centres (ac-

ing to detect cancer early. Apart

(BSE), plays an important role

cording to the National Depart-

from non-melanoma skin cancer,

in discovering breast cancer,

ment of Health’s Breast Cancer

breast cancer is the most common

compared to finding a breast

Control Policy),” Govender

cancer affecting women in South

lump by chance. While not all

continued.

Africa with a lifetime risk of one in

breast lumps indicate cancer,

A mammogram (a special

27, according to the 2019 National

they should be investigated. It is

x-ray to detect lumps in the

nual mammogram, for purposes

Cancer Registry. There is growing

vital to educate yourself and get

breast) does not prevent breast

of non-symptomatic breast

concern that most women present

to know the warning signs and

cancer but can save lives by

screening. Women 55 years

with late-stage cancers, which

symptoms,” explained Govender.

finding the disease as early as

and older, should have a mam-

makes for a difficult prognosis.

“CANSA offers clinical breast

possible. Women from the age

mogram every two years – or

Lorraine Govender, CANSA’s

examinations at its care centres

of 40 should go for an an-

if they choose, continue with

24

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

an annual mammogram. Some

nipple, discharge or bleeding

people have gene mutations

from the nipple, and a swelling

that make them more likely

or lump in the armpit.

to develop breast cancer. The

“We also encourage women

most common gene mutations

and men to familiarise them-

are found in the BReast CAncer

selves with the risk factors and

gene 1 (BRCA1) and BRCA2 that

symptoms of breast cancer so

normally produce proteins that

that they may be aware.

protect one from cancer. BRCA1

“Let us adopt lifestyle be-

and BRCA2 are genes that

haviours that can help lower

produce proteins that help repair

risks for breast cancer by being

damaged DNA. Women with

physically active, maintaining a

one of the defects have more

healthy weight, avoiding alcohol

chances of getting breast cancer

and tobacco and eating bal-

and need to be referred for an

anced meals. And also avoid ex-

annual mammogram.

posure to known cancer causing

Screening can be done at

agents,” added Govender.

public hospital’s breast imaging units. Patients can also visit

Get support

the the Radiological Society of

CANSA offers alternate support

online resources and Facebook

examination video and radio

SA website – https://www.rssa.

group options, online support

support groups, CANSA offers

spots that challenge women to

co.za/radiology-practices-in-sa/

resources, and free tele counsel-

multi-lingual support on What-

get educated and learn how to

– to see practices that offer

ling services in seven languag-

sApp: 072 197 9305 for English

do BSE.

breast imaging services. A doc-

es to cancer patients, caregivers

and Afrikaans and 071 867 3530

You can help to raise funds

tor's referral letter is not usually

and loved ones. You can make

for isiXhosa, isiZulu, siSwati,

to support CANSA’s Women’s

required for screening services.

an appointment by calling 0800

Sesotho and Setswana and free

Health Educational Campaign

The Radiological Society of

22 66 22 or sending an email to

tele counselling per appointment

and help keep screening af-

South Africa also offers book-

counselling@cansa.org.za.

on 0800 22 66 22 in English,

fordable by supporting various

ing services for screening with

“Stay informed by subscrib-

Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu,

events and campaigns this

private practices. The service

ing to our CANSA e-newsletter

siSwati, Sesotho and Setswana.

month. Purchase a Doek with a

can also be booked via email, ,

featuring health campaigns and

Follow CANSA on Facebook:

Difference or a pair of earrings

admin@rssa.co.za.

share this important informa-

CANSA The Cancer Associa-

or wrap a tree as part of the Pink

tion with the women in your life

tion of South Africa, Twitter: @

Trees for Pauline campaign –

to help lower cancer risk and

CANSA (http://www.twitter.com/

available at local CANSA care

Male breast cancer is rare,

enable early detection of cancer,”

CANSA), Instagram @canceras-

centres. You can host or attend a

accounting for 1% of all breast

added Govender.

sociationofsouthafrica, LinkedIn,

Cuppa For CANSA event or do-

cancers. Symptoms may include

If you need help or support,

TikTok (@cancerassociationza)

nate via CANSA’s secure online

a painless lump under the nip-

please visit www.cansa.org.za or

and Pinterest.

platforms.

ple or areola, an inverted nipple

contact the nearest CANSA Care

Visit https://cansa.org.za/

(turned inward), swelling of the

Centre, 0800 22 66 22 or email:

steps-how-to-do-a-breast-self-

*For more info, visit the CANSA

breast tissue, a rash around the

info@cansa.org.za. In addition to

examination-bse/ for a self

website: www.cansa.org.za

Male breast cancer

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

25

Writer: More Matshediso

FEATURE

Listening to the voices of learners B

asic Education Minister

Learner Participation and Func-

that was made during the inau-

and making them understand

Angie Motshekga believes

tionality of Learner Leaders in

gural RLC conference in 2022

where we come from when we

it is high time that the

South African Schools.”

to hold an annual physical RCL

do certain things will help us a

department incorporates the voice

The conference sought to

conference with provincial and

long way,” Minister Motshekga

of learners in any programmes

address challenges that hinder

district RCL representatives and

said.

meant to benefit them.

the functionality of RCLs in

Teacher Liaison Officers.

The core business of the de-

She spoke to Public Sector

schools and to improve learner

“Learners are what we are

partment is to ensure that teach-

Manager magazine on the side-

agency, assess progress, identify

about. The sooner we get used

ing and learning takes place in

lines of the 2023 Representative

neglected needs, and improve

to hearing them out and factor-

schools, and the RCLs are the

Council of Learners (RCLs) Con-

the way this statutory body

ing their voices, speaking with

voice of learners, she said.

ference recently held in Pretoria

operates.

them and not to them, under-

“The structure is needed to

under the theme; “Advancing

It followed a recommendation

standing where they come from

improve the quality of teaching

26

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

[and] learning in schools. They play a significant role in school governance and paving a way for the academic and personal development of all learners in the school,” she explained.

This is done by enforcing discipline and order among learners and ensuring that their voices are represented in schools so that the learning environment can be conducive for both teachers and learners.

“The pupils have elected RCLs so they can represent them and their ideas. We want democracy to be exercised in our schools and also ensure that there is full development of our learners in order to collectively take responsibility of their education, safety and their wellbeing.

“We also want to be sensitised about issues that affect them.

Many schools that allow the participation of learners in decisionmaking do very well, and I know

to drive positive change, over-

ship positions in schools. “This

learning environment for them-

this from when I was still the

come societal challenges, and

is time to show learners that it

selves. Schools, in this case,

MEC of Education in Gauteng,”

build a more inclusive and pros-

is also ‘cool’ to be well-behaved,

could mistakenly deny learners

she explained.

perous South Africa,” she said.

orderly, responsible and hard-

the right to contribute mean-

The Minister told RCL repre-

Minister Motshekga said youth

working, especially while you are

ingfully to their own academic

sentatives that learner leader-

could actively contribute by ad-

still in school,” she said.

development and well-being.

ship was not merely a badge of

vocating for equitable access to

According to the DBE, poorly

“The improvement of the func-

honour but a responsibility to

education, healthcare and eco-

developed capacity-building

tionality of RCLs will go a long

lead by example and to inspire

nomic opportunities. They could

programmes and lack of sup-

way towards improving learner

others to live a life of service to

harness the power of technology

port to RCLs by provinces are

outcomes in schools,” noted the

humanity.

and innovation to bridge the

the main reasons for ineffective

DBE in a concept document,

She encouraged the youth to

digital divide and promote digital

representative councils.

adding that stakeholders should

play a critical role in shaping the

literacy, enabling equal opportu-

It further said some schools

work together to guide the sec-

country’s future. “As the genera-

nities for all.

seemed to have very little ap-

tor in improving the functionality

tion that will inherit and lead the

She encouraged more leaners

preciation of the role the youth

of RCLs in schools.

nation, youth have the potential

to be eager to take up leader-

could play in creating a healthy

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

27

FEATURE

Source: National Treasury

Energy Bounce Back Loan Guarantee Scheme N

ational Treasury has launched

enterprises (SMEs) and house-

the Energy Bounce Back Loan

holds’ rooftop photovoltaic solar

Guarantee Scheme (EBB) –

investments (rooftop solar). The

an initiative aimed at alleviating the

EBB will operate through three

impact of continuing difficulties result-

mechanisms.

ing from unreliable power supply for

Mechanism 1 is a loan guaran-

small businesses and households.

tee for rooftop solar for SMEs and

The EBB aims to generate

households’ investment.

1 000 MW in additional generation

This will facilitate loans to SMEs

capacity as well as facilitate resil-

and households for investments

ience to load shedding for micro

related to rooftop solar generated

and informal businesses. Resil-

energy, including solar panels, bat-

ience measures include power

teries, inverters and other installa-

storage assets without generating

tion related costs.

capacity, like batteries and invert-

Mechanism 2 is a loan guaran-

ers. The EBB is a complementary

tee for rooftop solar for energy

intervention to the tax measures

service companies (ESCOs). This

announced in the 2023 Budget

will facilitate loans to ESCOs that

Speech. Applicants may, there-

provide leasing, instalment sale,

fore, apply for both tax and EBB

and power purchase contracts

measures.

to SMEs and households. It will

Measures

allow businesses and households to switch to ESCO service provid-

To facilitate investments, govern-

ers for more reliable and cleaner

ment will, through a guarantee

energy without the need for loans

administered by the South African

to finance the full upfront costs of

Reserve Bank, assume the initial

rooftop solar equipment them-

losses (20%) with finance provid-

selves.

ers assuming the risk for remain-

Support from the EBB, which

ing losses for small and medium

will be provided to the ESCOs to

28

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

enable them to scale up and

commercial banks. Participa-

institutions (DFIs) and non-

of rooftop solar, will be R300

expand leasing services to

tion through commercial banks

bank lenders that include

000 per household. For the

households and small busi-

will be subject to basic require-

wholesale retailers offering

leasing mechanism, prospec-

nesses, will require ESCOs to

ments, such as tax compliance

credit products servicing infor-

tive customers would also need

assess the individual need of

and adherence to other legal

mal traders can also access the

to comply with the require-

households or businesses, the

and regulatory requirements.

scheme through a commercial

ments set out by participating

implementation of a suitable

Any business borrowing

bank up to a maximum of

banks and the ESCO providing

solution, and the conclusion

under the EBB will be expect-

R300 million per entity. The

the leasing service.

of a leasing, instalment sale,

ed to meet the participating

maximum amount a business

Businesses in the rooftop

and power purchase contract

bank’s specific requirements,

can borrow is R10 million.

solar supply chain, those im-

between the ESCO and ap-

porting batteries, investors and

plicant.

panels will be able to borrow

Mechanism 3 is working

up to R100 million for working

capital loans for businesses in rooftop solar supply chain.

This will facilitate working capital loans for businesses that supply rooftop solar to meet increased demand. This mechanism will increase the supply of rooftop solar solutions, allowing businesses to source rooftop solar equipment with minimum delays.

An additional mechanism will be concluded with the Industrial Development Corporation to

Any business borrowing under

the EBB will be expected to meet the participating bank’s specific

requirements, be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission or be registered for Value Added Tax with the South African Revenue Service.

capital to ensure that wait times are reduced. Installers can borrow a maximum of R100 million.

Cost Pricing of the loans will be capped at the repo rate (at the commencement of the loan) plus a maximum of 6%. Households and SMEs will have the option of approaching any participating bank. Participating banks, DFIs and non-bank SME finance providers will

facilitate new ESCO entrants,

compete subject to the product

as well as scale up existing

terms, conditions and pricing

ESCOs through a mezzanine

cap.

finance instrument.

be registered with the Compa-

Businesses can also borrow a

The launch follows commit-

Participation in the EBB will

nies and Intellectual Property

maximum of R30 000 through

ments made by President Cyril

be facilitated through commer-

Commission or be registered

the scheme, for resilience

Ramaphosa during his State

cial banks on an opt-in basis.

for Value Added Tax with the

measures – to enable access

of the Nation Address in the

Non-bank finance providers,

South African Revenue Service.

for micro, informal businesses

February 2023, to “adjust the

that may require portable bat-

bounce-back loan scheme

teries or similar equipment to

(BBS) to enable small busi-

including wholesale retailers that provide lending prod-

Eligibility

ucts to SMEs for EBB eligible

Eligible businesses must have

these assets.

nesses to invest in solar equip-

related loans, can access the

a maximum turnover of R300

For households, a maximum

ment”.

scheme through participating

million. Development finance

loan amount, for the purchasing

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

29

Writer: Dr Darion Barclay Image Supplied by: Dr Darion Barclay

FEATURE

Knowledge management: an organisational imperative for operational efficiency edge management systems

formation. An important factor

driven by technological innova-

such as enterprise-wide knowl-

underpinning this framework

tion has the ability to reduce

edge management systems,

is document management, a

reliance on consultants to avoid

knowledge work systems or in-

framework for the creation,

past mistakes, and improve

telligent techniques to discover

editing, production, storage

systems and processes.

patterns and apply knowledge

and indexing of documentation.

Knowledge collaboration and

to discrete decisions and

The practices and intellectual

connection enables the interac-

knowledge domains.

capital in a department is part

tive exchange of information

According to the Public

of the institutional and Public

that empowers employees and

Service Commission report on

Service memory that entails

exposes an organisation to new

the status of the Public Ser-

both documented and undocu-

perspectives, while uncovering

vice, the vacancy rate of senior

mented information.

hidden resources in the work-

nowledge Management

managers (levels 13 – 16) is in

Governments worldwide are

place network. It connects and

South Africa describes

excess of the standard norm of

facing challenges to embark on

binds the collective intelligence

knowledge management

10%, and current staff turnover

a paperless environment driven

of teams, departments, and

as the process of creating, retain-

and natural attrition across

by cost reduction and pres-

organisational groups to create

ing, sharing, and better utilising

organisations, specifically in

ervation of the environment.

active, high-quality relation-

the knowledge and informa-

the Public Service can have

Knowledge Management is

ships, networks, and social

tion assets of an organisation to

a detrimental effect if there

about organisations seeking to

capital while solving genuine

achieve its objectives.

are no knowledge manage-

acquire and create potentially

business problems.

Knowledge is about manage-

ment system in place to ensure

useful knowledge about them-

ment of information assets and

information and knowledge

selves and make it available to

*Dr Barclay is the Head of Depart-

comprises four phases namely:

are collected, used, shared and

current and potential new staff,

ment at the Gauteng Department of

acquisition, storage, dissemina-

stored.

including researchers and aca-

Co-operative Governance and Tradi-

tion and application of knowl-

The National Strategy

demics who conducts studies

tional Affairs and is also an independ-

edge integrated into business

Framework advocates for the

on the status of organisations.

ent researcher. You can email him at

procedures for sound decision-

implementation and customisa-

An effective knowledge man-

darion.barclay@gauteng.gov.za

making.

tion of the framework across

agement system, whether cen-

Different types of businesses

the public sector to enable the

tralised or decentralised, paper

Click here for Dr Barclay's full

will use various types of knowl-

preservation and storage of in-

driven or paperless system

paper on Knowledge Management.

K

30

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Writer: Ephraim Malema

OPINION

South African Sign Language gives a voice to the voiceless

P

resident Cyril Ramaphosa

we are going because the future

for the people who are deaf or

during the memorial service of

signed into law the South

looks bright for people who are

have hearing problems. The

the world icon former President

African Sign Language

deaf and all South Africans.

12th official language in South

Nelson Mandela in 2013. It is

Africa must be respected and

hard for us to forget or even

that is why in May 2023, the

forgive. The sign language inter-

(SASL) Bill during a ceremony Pretoria on 19 July 2023. Eventu-

What is in a language?

National Assembly approved

preter at the memorial service

ally, the SASL became South

Language is part of every

that Section 6 of the Constitu-

was described by the South

Africa’s 12th official language. This

nation’s heritage and culture.

tion be amended to include the

African Deaf Association as

is a victory for South Africa. Gov-

Therefore, the SASL is crucial

SASL as an official language

“fake” and absolute circus. The

ernment has removed the barriers

because it contains cultural

to promote the rights of people

gestures of the sign language

of language once and for all. It

heritage, identity and traditional

who are deaf and those who

interpreter at the memorial ser-

has restored dignity to the people

values of all people who are

have hearing problems.

vice made deaf people around

living with hearing problems. This

deaf and those who have the

In my view, if thousands or

the world angry. This is a painful

is what we call “ubuntu” in Nguni

hearing problems. The main

millions of South Africans can

history.

languages and literally translated

connection between human

learn sign language, the better.

As the 12th official language

to English, it simply means show-

beings is language. All species

It seems like a missed opportu-

in South Africa, the SASL truly

ing humanity to others.

have their own way of com-

nity if some negligent people do

gives a voice to the voiceless

held at the Union Buildings in

People who are deaf deserve

municating and human beings

not see the contributions which

deaf people of South Africa.

something real and meaningful.

have cognitive language com-

deaf people – the primary users

Let us take the crown, then go

They are human beings who

munication. Also, language al-

and owners of sign language

on and promote the language.

have rights and are also pro-

lows us to share ideas, feelings,

– can offer in this democratic

After all, it depends on all South

tected by the Constitution of the

and thoughts and also build the

country. To recognise sign

Africans to make sign language

Republic of South African, 1996.

nation.

language as an official language

a success.

Those who do not understand

The SASL has the potential

is a point of human rights, let us

the SASL Bill, unfortunately, are

to enhance communication

grab it and move on.

*Malema is the Regional

on the losing side. There is no

for everyone – but only if we

Some of us still remember

Communications Coordinator

more turning back and forward

do not frame it as a language

the drama which happened

at the GCIS North West Office.

32

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

FEATURE

Source: Independent Institute of Education

Distress to zen:

mastering workplace stress and sidestepping burnout F

or professionals in South

speak,” says labour expert Dr

African workplaces today,

Linda Meyer, Managing Director

Understanding workplace stress

stress and burnout are

at the Independent Institute of

“Workplace stress is more than

Education’s Rosebank College.

just fleeting moments of anxiety.

they are an omnipresent

“However, in South Africa,

It is a continuous strain that can

shadow. With relentless

that is not a viable option for

debilitate our productivity, crea-

deadlines, mounting

the majority of people, given

tivity, and well-being,” explained

workloads, office

our high unemployment rate,

Meyer.

politics, and

competitive jobs marketplace

Signs to look out for include:

desperate

and the rising cost of living.

•

attempts

So instead of stepping out and

to maintain

away from the source of the

not just mere buzzwords;

without a clear roadmap, •

the dissonance of expectations versus reality,

work-life

distress, most people muddle

balance, to-

through daily, hoping for some

day’s workforce

relief or resolution in future.

work or the cacophony of

is flirting danger-

“But instead of waiting for

crowded workspaces and

ously with burnout.

things to change for the better

Yet, while stress seems like an inescapable reality, surrender is

•

•

the isolation of remote

the looming spectre of job

in some distant future, it is pos-

instability in a fluctuating

sible to make a few changes

economy.

that can ease the daily emotion-

Meyer noted that at its core,

not the solution.

al load of work and embark on a

the primary root of workplace

“Many people flirt with the

path that will lead to greater job

stress is the perceived lack of

idea of throwing caution to the

satisfaction and personal fulfil-

control coupled with mounting

wind and just giving up – let the

ment,” she added.

and seemingly insurmountable

chips fall where they may, so to

34

overloaded work plates

responsibilities.

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

“Left unchecked, stress

•

feeling more negative or

evolves into burnout. That is

cynical towards colleagues,

when exhaustion replaces

clients, or the job; and

enthusiasm, cynicism overshad-

•

ows commitment, and efficacy

In addition to signs at work,

reduced work performance.

dwindles to incapacity. This is

there will also be signs

not just about a bad day at the

at home, including sleep

office, burnout is the culmina-

disruption, physical

tion of prolonged stress, leading

symptoms such as

to mental and physical health

chest pains, heart

ramifications.

palpitations, gas-

“Burnout is a state of chronic

trointestinal problems,

physical and emotional ex-

decreased life satisfac-

haustion, often accompanied

tion, lack of self-care,

by cynicism and feelings of

pessimism and dif-

detachment or ineffectiveness.

ficulty connecting with

It results from prolonged, con-

loved ones.

tinuous stress without adequate

“If you suspect you

coping mechanisms or breaks,”

are suffering from burn-

Meyer explained.

out, it will be helpful to

Manifestations of burnout

seek professional support and

tasks, set achievable goals

Regular exercise, a balanced

also to speak to your manager

and celebrate small victories.

diet, and sufficient rest are

Set boundaries: in an age of

the trinity to combat stress.

to see how the problem might

•

According to Meyer, the fol-

be addressed. However, there

digital tethering, learn the art

“Navigating the tempestuous

lowing signs are indicative of

are a few steps that you can

of disconnecting. Preserve

seas of workplace stress is an

burnout:

take to start turning the ship

personal time, avoiding the

essential skill to develop to

•

Physical exhaustion and

around immediately,” said

email rabbit hole post-work

avoid the burnout that has a

frequent illnesses due to a

Meyer.

hours.

devastating effect beyond the

weakened immune system;

“It is important to start culti-

Nurture connections: seek

workplace. It is about shift-

difficulty concentrating,

vating mindfulness by embrac-

mentors, join peer groups

ing our narrative from mere

forgetfulness, or a decreased

ing practices like meditation

and foster relationships

survival to empowered thriving.

ability to problem-solve and

and deep breathing to enable

beyond work talk.

By recognising the signs and

make decisions;

you to ground yourself in the

Embrace continuous learn-

implementing mechanisms to

feelings of detachment,

present, creating an oasis of

ing: equip yourself with skills

address them pre-emptively, we

depression, anxiety and a re-

calm amidst the storm.”

that boost confidence. Attend

can turn the tables on stress,

workshops, seek feedback,

ensuring it does not have the

and view challenges as op-

final say in our personal and

portunities to grow.

professional life trajectories,”

Get moving: the mind-body

concluded Meyer.

•

duced sense of accomplish•

ment;

Approach

feeling trapped and defeated,

•

•

Get organised: a cluttered

coupled with a loss of moti-

desk or an overflowing inbox

vation;

can amplify stress. Organise

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

•

•

connection is paramount.

35

Writer: Lindelwa Fuku-Manjiya Images: unsplash.com

FEATURE

Young women urged to be resilient in the face of cyberbullying

W

omen face many chal-

and Communication Panel

tive writing and reporting, as

sage to give young women who

lenges in the workplace

Discussion held by Government

well as gender discrimination in

would soon enter the media

than their male coun-

Communication and Information

newsrooms and glass ceiling in

world.

terparts, including sexism, harass-

System (GCIS), in partnership

the media and communication

ment and unfair discrimination.

with the Tshwane University of

sector. The panellists examined

Employment equity

This is according to Boikutso

Technology (TUT) at the Prestige

the emotional toll these practic-

The South African Employment

Tsikane, Project Manager: Print

Auditorium, Pretoria Campus.

es had on women in the media

Equity Act, 1998 (Act 55 of 1998)

and Digital at the Media De-

Held under the theme; “Navi-

and offered advice on how to

prohibits unfair discrimination at

velopment and Development

gating Social Media Spaces

overcome these challenges.

the workplace.

Agency (MDDA).

Safely”, the panel discussion

Tsikane said when she pre-

It states that no person may

She recently addressed the

focused on cyberbullying of

pared for the discussion, her

unfairly discriminate, directly or

4th Annual Women in Media

female journalists, gender sensi-

goal was finding a key mes-

indirectly, against an employee

36

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Boikutso Tsikane, Project Manager: Print and Digital at the Media Development and Development Agency

in any employment policy or

exercise boundaries in the

experiences regarding cyberbul-

she thought the matter had

practice, on one or more

workplace and know that always

lying.

ended. However, the intimidation

grounds, including race, gender,

agreeing to take on more work

Motsai related a story of when

migrated to social media where

pregnancy, marital status, family

than their male counterparts will

negative comments were posted

the group of bullies continued to

responsibility, ethnic or social

only put them at a disadvantage

on social media and her cred-

smear her name.

origin, colour, sexual orientation,

in the end. “When you always

ibility questioned after she wrote

“I put up a tweet stating that I

age, disability, religion, HIV-sta-

say yes, you are sometimes

about a Student Representative

had the right to report on these

tus, conscience, belief, political

saying no to work that actually

Council leader. “I was violated

student protests and I should

opinion, culture, language or

matters,” she said.

verbally. I was really scared be-

not be intimidated. High-ranking

birth.

She also encouraged students

cause I thought he was also go-

officials of a certain political

“Do we focus on ageism – that

to advance their skills in order

ing to hit me. I went back to the

party condoned the harassment

she is too young to lead – and

to secure a bright future for

newsroom and cried. I thought

and defendant on Twitter, which

what does it take to lead older

themselves.

it was the end of it but the

led to more bullying,” she said.

colleagues? Do we focus on

“You are entering a space that

whole thing moved online. I was

“It is really hard to explain the

the gender discrimination wage

is evolving. The country is mov-

now getting insults each time I

pain this harassment does to

gap? We do the same amount

ing towards a skills economy.

posted my work online and my

you, but you need to find a way

of work and have the same skills

Advance your skills because

credibility was questioned. This

to focus on your work and block

but the wage gap is so wide,”

you do not know what awaits

created so much trauma to a

out the noise. You must remind

she said.

you. We studied similar courses

point where I deactivated my

yourself why you joined [the me-

Tsikane added that this was

as panel members in front of

Twitter account,” she said.

dia] industry in the first place.”

one of the reasons why women

you but we come from different

She had to take control of her

To deal with cyberbullying,

struggled to break through

backgrounds. You need to find

emotions and remember why

you firstly need not to respond

the glass ceiling despite the

out what really moves you,” she

she had decided to follow her

immediately, take a screenshot

improvements in the market.

said.

career path.

of the comment as the bully is

Women often get assigned more

Fray College Chief Executive

Masikane said she also had

likely to delete it after sometime,

unpromotable work and they

Officer Mamoponya Motsai and

her share of cyberbullying. She

report the perpetrator to the site

volunteer more than their male

a reporter from eNCA Slidelo

had covered a student protest

and block them.

counterparts.

Masikane were part of the panel

at Braamfontein and faced the

She encouraged women to

discussion. They shared similar

bullies head-on. Like Motsai,

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

37

Source: PRASA Images: PRASA

FEATURE

PRASA's sustainable turnaround on track T

he turnaround of the

ride past St James station?

Passenger Rail Agency of

That’s the most glorious ride...

South Africa (PRASA) has

from Muizenburg to Simons-

revitalised one of the most impor-

town. It’s best enjoyed with ice

tant State-Owned Entities (SOEs).

cream from those coffee shops

Over the past eighteen months,

on Kalk Bay Main Rd.”

PRASA has recovered the bulk of

Thiathu Manenzhe observes,

its corridors, reopened rail lines,

“one cannot underestimate the

refurbished stations and delivered

power of public transportation

a markedly improved performance

systems done right. They’re the

across most of its parameters.

heartbeat of the city and make

Commuter satisfaction has

the city work".

shot up, with many commut-

These testimonials capture the

ers going onto social media to

extent to which PRASA’s service

share their positive experiences

meets and in many ways ex-

on PRASA’s new trains. On

ceeds the expectations of those

platforms such as X, commuters

who ride the trains.

regularly post photos of their

It is clear that a thriving

trips, capturing the scenic nature

PRASA means our people can

of many of the routes along the

reach their destinations quickly,

PRASA network.

affordably and safely. PRASA

“The magic of rail has always

is mindful of the impact of high

been what I most look forward

fuel prices on the pockets of

to when I get up. I always to take

South Africans and it takes seri-

the train to work and when I was

ously its role to give commuters

a student living in KwaMashu,

a mode of transport that helps

I travelled by train” says Mayo

beginning to experience a new

Town CBD, a more than 30-km

them travel safely and affordably.

Ndlovu, who recently relocated

PRASA. Ray Mahlaka, a Cape

journey. The train is clean, safe

Social media platforms provide a

to Cape Town, where he takes

Town-based journalist writes,

and reliable (ish). When SOEs

snapshot of the positive impact

the train as much as possi-

“back on the glorious train in

work and are service-orientated,

that a healthy PRASA is making

ble. He is not alone, citizens

Cape Town. Still R9 to commute

they can improve quality of life”.

on the daily lives of those who

who travel by train are warmly

from the deep South to Cape

Mthembukazi retorts, “do you

use its passenger train services.

38

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

The satisfaction is not limited to

pectations of our stakeholders

the end of 2022/23, PRASA had

metropolitan areas. Corridor

those who are on social me-

were high. We owe it to our-

recovered 18 rail lines. During

recovery is a complex under-

dia, but is captured amongst

selves and the people of South

the same period 58 stations

taking that involves recovery

riders who share their experi-

Africa to build a PRASA that

were revitalised, 57 new train

of the infrastructure, including

ences with PRASA staff when

we can be truly proud of

sets were delivered and 197

the perway, installation of the

a new line is formally launched.

– an institution that embod-

existing train sets were config-

overhead traction equipment,

Customer service surveys also

(OHTE) fixing of substations

reveal a high level of customer

and a host of other elements

“When I was appointed GCEO, I

satisfaction. The upside of this recovery is that commuters who

knew that the expectations of our

prefer to travel by train save at least 50% compared to what they would pay for other modes of transport.

The most economically vulner-

stakeholders were high. We owe it

to ourselves and the people of South Africa to build a PRASA that we can

able are able to travel safely and affordably on PRASA’s trains.

be truly proud of ”

PRASA Group Chief Executive

that enable the safe and efficient running of PRASA’s modern trains. The work is done by PRASA’s highly skilled internal teams as well as experienced contractors.

Work is underway to recover and, where necessary, reinstall the signalling system and to fully reinstate the central nerve

Officer Hishaam Emeran says he

center. A fully functional signal-

is pleased with the progress of

ling system will ensure that

the turnaround.

ies our values and represents

ured. These solid achievements

PRASA runs trains at the fre-

“We are running PRASA’s

the best of who we are as a

show that PRASA is hard at

quency required to move high

modern new trains on most

people,” says Emeran.

work. The number of lines back

passenger numbers safely.

of our critical corridors, and

The agency has detailed plans

in operation is expected to in-

passengers have returned in

to further improve the service

crease substantially at the end

Job creation

their numbers. We have also

by fixing signalling, modernis-

of 2023/24.

Job creation has been one of

bolstered capacity across all

ing ticketing, upgrading more

aspects of our service. In

stations and bolstering an al-

the last financial year, we

ready much improved security

Recovering critical corridors

achieved 59% of our perfor-

plan. Performance indicators in

Critical corridors have been

jobs and job opportunities have

mance target, a significant

the current financial year show

recovered in PRASA’s areas of

been created through rolling

increase from the previous

that PRASA is building on the

operation in the Western Cape,

stock, infrastructure and opera-

year’s 19%. In a historical first

successes of the past year, with

KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

tional projects. A further 12 689

for us, we achieved our CAPEX

its performance already indicat-

They include parts of the Cen-

indirect jobs have been created

[capital expenditure] spend,

ing that the agency will meet

tral Line in Cape Town, Umlazi

through these programmes.

ensuring that we execute our

and even exceed most of its

to Durban, Saulsville to Pretoria,

Jobs were also created through

capital programme and stimu-

agreed targets.

Mabopane to Pretoria, Naledi

the establishment of coop-

late the rail industry and its sup-

This is good news for travel-

to Johannesburg and Leralla to

eratives focused on cleaning,

port sectors,” says Emeran.

lers and citizens who want a

Germiston. Reopening these

horticulture and maintenance of

“When I was appointed

passenger rail service that is

essential and historic lines has

stations. >>

GCEO, I knew that the ex-

efficient, modern, and safe. By

revived passenger rail in vital

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

the highlights of this successful recovery programme by PRASA. Nearly 9 000 direct

39

FEATURE

Commitment to safety PRASA’s much vaunted safety

that combines technology and

depots have state-of-the-art

practices includes on-board

skills to significantly reduce the

fencing and walling to ensure

ambassadors who promote

number of security incidents.

the safety and security of these

campaign – Asiphephe, aligns

safety. Their presence on board

PRASA’s new rolling stock pro-

national assets. The turnaround

with the conditions of the

the trains contributes to physical

gramme reflects the achievable

of PRASA’s bus service, Auto-

agency’s safety permit. But it

safety, especially for vulnerable

ambition of the agency to mod-

pax, remains an essential focus

goes beyond compliance issues

groups, including women and

ernise its assets, upgrade its in-

for the organisation. Autopax

to reflect PRASA’s commitment

young people. Onboard secu-

frastructure and bring travellers

is a vital cog in the integrated

to lower safety incidents and

rity personnel, including the

the train of the future. A total of

transport matrix as it transports

improve personal safety on its

South African Police Service,

165 of PRASA’s new trains have

millions of bus passengers.

trains and at its stations. Walling

CCTV cameras and onboard

been built and delivered for use

“Mobility is more than just

and fencing projects as well as

driver-managed communica-

in Gauteng, Western Cape and

trains and buses. It is about

community awareness pro-

tion bring an added sense of

KwaZulu-Natal. These state-

enabling people to connect,

grammes, have led to a reduc-

security. These measures have

of-the-art electric multiple unit

to pursue their dreams, and

tion in the number of safety

significantly reduced safety and

trains are built on the East Rand

to create a better future for

incidents. But more needs to be

security-related incidents on our

at the Gibela factory.

themselves and their loved

done to improve safety. This is

new trains.

PRASA’s turnaround is also

ones. Our turnaround is firmly

no easy task given South Africa

The protection services have

accelerating the building of new

on track, and I am confident that

has over 2 230 km of passenger

achieved a remarkable turna-

depots and upgrading existing

we have what it takes to ensure

rail track, excluding the intercity

round in the security of both

ones to ensure that the new

that rail becomes the backbone

main railway lines owned by

assets and people. We have

fleet is staged and maintained

of the public transport system,”

Transnet.

implemented a security strategy

in appropriate facilities. These

concludes Emeran.

40

PRASA’s investment in safety

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

GROOMING AND ST YLE

How to take care of your

Writer: More Matshediso Images: Supplied by Palesa Lobisi

skin in spring S

pring is a season of

tance of maintaining a healthy

Allergies

rejuvenation and revival,

skin and doing away with the

Spring is notorious for its allergy

yet it can also bring skin

heaviness brought by winter. She

season, and during this time,

problems for many.

also touches briefly on some of

skin reactions like hives, rashes,

Somatologist Palesa Lobisi

the challenges your skin may

and eczema can be triggered by

says this is because of the shift-

experience and how you can ad-

allergens such as pollen, dust,

ing weather conditions, in-

dress them.

and mold-associated skin rash.

creased exposure to the sun and

“With the much warmer

“The best approach to man-

allergens that can result in

weather conditions that comes

aging skin allergies is to avoid

various skin problems.

with spring and summer, it is of

these allergens. When pollen

can catch people off guard, as

In this edition, Lobisi

utmost importance to hydrate

levels are high, it is advisable

temperatures have not peaked

reminds us about the

and nourish the skin. The skin-

to keep windows and doors

yet, and the sun may not feel ex-

impor-

care routine that I am going to

closed, use air purifiers, and

cessively warm, but the damage

share works for all genders and

stay indoors. Over-the-counter

occurs regardless.

is easy to maintain,” explained

antihistamines can also help

Go for a sun protection formula

Lobisi.

alleviate itching and redness,”

of 50 or above (SPF50+) for the

She said during the spring

explained Lobisi.

best protection,” Lobisi advised.

Ultraviolet (UV) damage

Acne

As temperatures rise, peo-

tion that can occur at any time of

ple tend to spend more time

the year. However, the increased

outdoors, increasing their risk of

sweat and humidity during

UV damage. Excessive exposure

spring can worsen it. Sweat and

to UV radiation from the sun

skin oils can clog pores, leading

can lead to sun spots, dry and

to acne flare-ups.

dehydrated skin, as well as the

“The best way to prevent acne

appearance of fine lines and

is to keep the skin dry and clean,

wrinkles.

avoid touching the affected

“During spring, UV damage

areas, and cleanse twice daily

months, several types of skin problems tend to become more prevalent, including: R192.95

R69.95 at Dischem

Acne is a common skin condi-

R345 at Dischem * Prices correct at the time of publishing.

42

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

is the most effective way to

Extra Gentle Daily Scrub.

and has Hyaluronic Acid

manage eczema. Avoid harsh

If you have an oily acne

and Amino acids to keep

cleansers and detergents, and

prone skin skin, the Euc-

the skin plump and nour-

moisturise twice daily with

erin Dermo-purifyer Face

ished.

fragrance-free moisturisers,” she

Scrub is one of the best as

Sunscreen: Use a broad-

said.

it has active ingredients

spectrum sunscreen to

to combat the acne, the

protect your skin from UV

oiliness and the rough skin

rays. Opt for an SPF 50+,

texture that comes with an

but go for a lightweight

oily skin.

product such as the La

Rosacea Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterised by redness

R50 and R149 at Fundamentals

and inflammation on the face.

If you have a normal to

Roche-Posay Anthlios

Lobisi said spring can exacer-

combination skin, the

Invisible Fluid SPF50+.

bate rosacea symptoms due

Garnier Skin Active Even

to increased sun exposure and

and Matte Instant Radi-

allergens.

ance Scrub can get the job

Lobisi offered the following

upto here.

tips to take care of your skin in

Vitamin C: incorporate

spring:

Vitamin C serums for a

with a mild cleanser. Over-the-

Cleansing: depending on

bright and even skin tone.

counter products containing

the condition of your skin,

The Fundamentals 15% Vi-

salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide

you will need a cleanser

tamin C serum is the best

can also help treat acne,” said

that will address the needs

for combating sun and

Lobisi.

of your skin. If you are a

environmental triggers that

normal to combination skin

create free radicals, which

type, you may use gentle

are damaging to skin.

Eczema is a persistent skin

exfoliation to remove dead

Anti-oxidants minimise

condition that results in dry,

skin cells and promote

the harmful effects of free

sensitive, itchy, and irritated skin.

a fresh complexion. This

radicals. Vitamin C is the

During spring, irritants like pollen

should be done twice a

strongest anti-oxidant and

and dust can worsen eczema

week to ensure a smooth

best ingredient for this job

symptoms.

texture of the skin, even

Hydration: Keep your skin

“Properly hydrating the skin

product absorption and a

hydrated with lightweight,

smooth base for make-up

water-based moisturisers.

application.

Lobisi's best bet is the

Eczema

If you have sensitive skin,

Neutrogena Hydro Boost

you can use the Cetaphil

Water Gel. It is lightweight

R249.95

*Lobisi is a qualified and internationally accredited Somatologist with over 10 years’ experience, including working on cruise ships as a beauty therapist and skin specialist. She holds a Bachelor of Technology in Somatology from the Central University of Technology and is accredited to work internationally by CIDESCO International. She runs a mobile nails and massage business in Bloemfontein while furthering her studies in Educational Management. For bookings, you can WhatsApp her on 078 133 7610. * Prices correct at the time of publishing.

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

43

Serving culture and memories on a plate J

spaces and see master-

Risotto Funghi ( Mushroom Risotto)

pieces and inspiration,

Ingredients:

ust as artists stare through

when Chef Nkosi Ngubane looks

•

200g Arborio Rice.

at ingredients, the childhood fond

•

1 litre vegetable stock.

memories of his mother's brilliant

•

30g Parmesan cheese.

cooking and the smell of food

•

5g Parmesan shavings.

come flooding back.

•

5g Fresh Basil.

Originally from Greytown in

•

20g Mushroom Velvet Propane.

KwaZulu-Natal – a town with an underrated culture of shar-

Photo: Yalamber Limbu on Unsplash

Writer: Keitumetse Rampoporo

FOOD AND WINE

•

ing flavourful food, Chef Nkosi

20g Mushroom Alba Clamshell.

says his first encounter with a

•

10 ml Olive oil.

professional kitchen was Ital-

•

20g Butter.

ian cooking.

“Italians pass on their recipes

Instructions:

all the way from Italy to the

•

Heat 20g of butter and

rest of the world. This is what I

olive oil in a pan over

would call the legacy of impec-

medium-high heat.

cable taste. And their culture

•

Sprinkle a generous pinch

of sharing food knits right

of salt and some freshly

close to ours; this is probably

ground black pepper, and

why I relate to it because it is

stir to mix.

always paying homage," says the Chef.

44

•

Add the rice and coat with all that fat, stirring well.

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Photo: Sean Stone on Unsplash

Toast the rice for three

stir it all in thoroughly and

•

1 litre coke.

more minutes, until the

vigorously for 30 seconds.

•

1 liter BBQ sauce.

Cover and leave to rest for

•

Braai spice mix for season-

with foil and cook in the

ing.

preheated oven for three to

edges turn translucent.

•

•

Instructions:

then until the meat is tender

evaporated, add half a cup

of the sautéed mushrooms

•

Preheat the oven to 170 °C.

and falling away from the

more of the stock, stir, and

and a few drops more of

•

Heat a deep-sided roasting

bone.

repeat this process for 12

the truffle oil.

tray on the hob and add a

•

When the short ribs are

glug of olive oil. Season the

ready, remove from the

short ribs thoroughly, then

oven and transfer to a serv-

fry for 10 to 15 minutes to

ing dish. Squeeze the garlic

brown well on all sides.

cloves out of their skins and

Add the halved garlic head,

pass through a sieve. Spoon

minute mark. It should be

Slow cooked beef short ribs

just about done, depend-

Ingredients:

ing on your rice, and the

•

Olive oil, for frying.

heat. If it is not done, add

•

5 kg thick-cut meaty beef

cut side down, pushing it to

off any excess fat from the

short ribs.

the bottom of the pan. Add

beef cooking liquid, then

2 large heads of garlic, cut

the tomato purée and heat

blend it with a hand blender

in half horizontally.

for a minute or two to cook

to breakdown the vegetable

5 heaped tablespoons

it out. Pour in the coke to

chucks in the sauce and

tomato purée.

deglaze the pan, scraping

mix with the garlic and BBQ

Check the rice at the 12

When that stock has been

•

absorbed, check again.

Tip in about 3/4 of the

•

mushrooms, and stir thor-

•

oughly to fold the mush-

•

3 litres beef stock.

up the bits at the bottom.

sauce and reduce the cook-

rooms in, and heat through

•

Sea salt and freshly

Bring to boil and cook for 10

ing liquid by heating for 10

ground black pepper.

to15 minutes until the liquid

to 15 minutes.

3 white onions sliced or

is reduced by half, then

for about 30 seconds.

Keep the rest aside for

•

topping.

•

four hours, basting now and

ping each one with a few

1/4 cup stock, and stir.

•

Serve up your risotto, top-

Cover the roasting tray

When the stock has

minutes.

•

two minutes.

Add 1 cup of the simmering stock and stir gently.

•

•

with the juices.

•

•

Serve the short ribs topped

chopped.

add stock to nearly cover

with the hot sauce and gar-

Take off the heat. Stir in

•

1 bunch of fresh celery.

the ribs (you will need less

nish with flat leaf rosemary.

the butter, cream, two

•

500g fresh carrots sliced

stock if your roasting tray is

or chopped.

not very large). Bring to the

* You can follow Chef Nkosi's work on

500 ml Worcester sauce.

boil again, basting the ribs

his Instagram @nkosithechef.

tablespoons of the truffle oil and the parmesan and

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

•

45

Writer: Sarah Kingdom, Africa Geographic Nicholas Francis Writer: Sarah Kingdowm, Africa Geographic

TRAVEL FEATURE

De Hoop offers

Pictures: Supplied

the complete outdoor experience © De Hoop Collection

N

ot too far from Cape Town

what is now De Hoop Nature

endangered species, such as

to De Hoop to get out and enjoy

in the Overberg region

Reserve, followed by Late Stone

bontebok and Cape mountain

this local wildlife - whether

of South Africa, near the

Age hunter-gatherers who lived

zebra, were bred for restocking.

through traditional game drives

southernmost tip of Africa, lies a

off the land and coastal resourc-

Since the early 1970s, though,

in a vehicle, guided mountain

protected haven of sand dunes,

es. Before the arrival of Euro-

the objective of De Hoop has

bike rides or hikes. Cycling past

long white beaches, beautiful

peans, the nomadic Khoisan

been the conservation of this

the plentiful herds of eland and

mountains and 70 km of spec-

or Khoekhoen roamed the

unique coastal region, and in

bontebok and walking among

tacular, pristine coastline. Here, a

inland plains. (Today, carefully

1986 a Marine Protected Area

the zebras is an experience not

marine reserve stretches 5 km into

preserved artefacts from this

was proclaimed off its coast,

to be missed.

the ocean, where dolphins surface

era are displayed at the tourist

contributing to the conservation

This experience is all the

and whales breach and play. De

information centre at the main

of the region’s coastal marine

more precious as De Hoop

Hoop Nature Reserve is a world

entrance.) On guided walks,

resources.

(along with a neighbouring

apart from the bright city lights.

one can even visit the middens,

Inland, away from the coast,

where the indigenous inhabit-

this stunning 34 000-hectare

ants of the southern coast,

reserve is a UNESCO Ramsar

known as Strandlopers, combed

World Heritage Site, rich in

the beaches and consumed

De Hoop’s varied habitat sup-

small feat considering their near

biodiversity, home to an array of

shellfish for hundreds of years.

ports a diversity of wildlife. The

extinction at the beginning of

unique and rare wildlife, and a

The Overberg region was colo-

reserve hosts 86 mammal spe-

the 20th century, after hunting

favourite destination for hikers,

nised in the early 18th century,

cies, including the rare bonte-

and habitat loss reduced the

cyclists, bird watchers, and

and over the next 100 years, it

bok and Cape mountain zebra,

population to less than 60 indi-

whale watchers.

became known for sheep farm-

eland, grey rhebok, baboons,

viduals. But conservation efforts

ing, horse and cattle breeding,

yellow mongoose and caracals.

by local reserves, national parks

and grain farming.

Lucky visitors may even spot the

and landowners helped bolster

Thousands of years ago, Stone

Initially, the reserve served as

occasional Cape leopard. And

numbers, and their story is now

Age people hunted wildlife in

a wildlife farm, where rare and

there are many ways for visitors

one of South Africa’s most suc-

Once upon a time

46

Wildlife and conservation success in De Hoop

conservancy) is now home to a slowly growing population of endangered Cape mountain zebra. This achievement is no

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

© Sarah Crone | De Hoop Collection

internationally recognised as Birdlife International Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, and over 260 species of resident and migratory birds are found here, including flamingos, African black oystercatchers, great white pelicans, migrant wading birds, African fish eagles, endemic southern boubous and cessful conservation stories. The

Swellendam). By 1969, the bon-

conserving this rare vegetation

colourful malachite sunbirds.

population established at De

tebok population numbered 800

type. Of all the approximately 1

The reserve is also home to

Hoop in the 1960s contributed

strong, and today the popula-

500 fynbos species found here,

a newly established colony of

to their survival, and today their

tion hovers between 2 500 and

108 are rare or threatened, 34

endangered African penguins –

numbers in South Africa have

3 000. While not abundant, the

are endemic and found nowhere

another conservation success

grown from under 100 in the

bontebok’s future is considered

else in the world, and incred-

story. After BirdLife South Africa

1950s to 1 200 animals by 2000.

secure. A current headcount of

ibly, 14 species are so newly

partnered with CapeNature

A healthy population of Cape

308 of these antelope roams De

discovered that they have yet to

and SANCCOB to create a new

mountain zebras call De Hoop

Hoop – more than just a glim-

be scientifically examined and

breeding colony for African

home

mer of hope for a species that

described.

penguins by constructing a

The bontebok in the reserve

was once nearly wiped out.

Taking a hike on one of the

predator-proof fence in 2018 and

inland trails, visitors find them-

introducing 148 juvenile pen-

selves knee-high in fynbos,

guins to the colony site, more

De Hoop forms part of the Cape

bathed in fragrance, and sur-

penguins started spontaneously

to excess hunting, agricultural

Floral Kingdom – the world’s

rounded by shades of yellow,

arriving at the site in mid-2022.

encroachment and competition

smallest and most threatened

coral, pink, purple and green –

In late 2022, the first pair of

with domestic stock for forage

plant kingdom. Fynbos, confined

including heath-like ericas, wiry

chicks was recorded at the

and water that only 17 individu-

mainly to nutrient-poor soils in

reed-like restios, and geophytes

colony – a promising prospect

als remained by the 1800s. Dras-

the winter rainfall areas of the

that store moisture in their

for the future success of the

tic intervention to save them

Western Cape, dominates this

fleshy underground bulbs.

colony.

from extinction in 1931 led to

kingdom. De Hoop is important

the establishment of the nearby

for conserving lowland fyn-

Bontebok National Park (near

bos, as this is the largest area

share a similar history. The bontebok, a sub-species of blesbok, was once so endangered due

Plant kingdom

Winged wonders

The De Hoop wetlands are

Not too far from the colony, on the cliffs of Potberg Mountain, avid birders can view the

© Morukuru Ocean House Public Sector Manager • August October2023 2023

47

TRAVEL FEATURE TRAVEL

Western Cape’s last remain-

many sea birds that call these

on the dunes and watch them as

over the Indian Ocean to self-

ing breeding colony of Cape

shores home. Snorkelling in the

they breach, blow and belly-flop.

catering cottages and camp-

vultures. A short but steep hike

large, clear rock pools is one of

Aside from whales, visitors are

sites.

up De Hoop’s Klipspringer Trail

the best ways to experience this

likely to spot diving dolphins and

leads to a lookout platform over

magical marine world.

frolicking seals, and the waters

the colony, home to around 150

The protected waters are a

here are home to at least 250

Cape vultures. The hike is worth

haven for endangered south-

species of fish.

another crisp Cape coast day,

the climb, and the views are

ern right whales, and 40% of

For the keen hiker, De Hoop

and the sky lights up crimson,

spectacular, with vultures soar-

the world’s population of these

has one of the best hiking trails

orange and yellow, there’s noth-

ing overhead, diving and circling

gentle giants return from feeding

in South Africa: the five-day, 55

ing better than to sit, gin and

in the sky.

in the far Southern Ocean close

km Whale Trail, which features

tonic in hand, and look out over

to Antarctica in the summer

well-equipped accommodation

the endless ocean. Silhouetted

months to the waters off De

along the route. The ‘slack-

against the sky, a southern right

De Hoop's marine reserve

Final thoughts

As the sun goes down on

Hoop annually, to mate, give

packing’ route offers coastal and

whale and her calf make for a

The De Hoop Marine Protected

birth and rear their calves. The

mountain walking, with spec-

sensational sunset spectacle.

Area extends 5 km out to sea

marine protected area is an

tacular views and plenty of op-

De Hoop offers the com-

from the coastline of the nature

important destination for these

portunities for whale watching.

plete outdoor experience: sea,

reserve. This is one of Africa’s

magnificent mammals, as it

Do note that hiking the Whale

unspoiled beaches, dunes,

largest marine protected areas,

guarantees a safe nursery, and

Trail requires booking well in

wetlands, rare plants, diverse

providing a sanctuary for a

during the season, around 120

advance.

animals, incredible bird life and

fascinating array of marine life.

whales call De Hoop home.

Visiting De Hoop between

hiking trails. From adventure,

Adventurers can explore the

At the peak periods of the

August and November, during

peace and tranquillity to luxury

coastal rock pools, fossilised

season (June and December),

whale watching time, is particu-

and wilderness, De Hoop has it

dunes, sandy beaches and rocky

as many as fifty can be spotted

larly rewarding, but the reserve

all.

shores, where marine life of all

in a day, making the reserve one

has something to offer explorers

shapes and sizes can be seen

of the best spots for land-based

throughout the year.

This article was first published by

– from bright orange starfish to

whale watching in the world.

Various accommodation op-

Africa Geographic

purple sea urchins, limpets, bar-

The whales come so close to

tions are available, from luxury

nacles, octopus, and some of the

shore that visitors can simply sit

lodges with panoramic views

© Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

© Morukuru Ocean House

Visit: www.africageographic.com

© Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

©Morukuru Beach Lodge

48

Public Sector Manager • October 2023