Public Service Month
a government dedicated to serving its people
on the Northern Cape’s Astro-Tourism this Tourism Month
the Two-Pot Retirement System all you need to know
8 REGULARS
8. Conversations with leaders
Minister for the Public Service and Administration Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi pledges to revitalise public service
12. Women in the public sector
Chief Town and Regional Planner in the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Sheena Satikge-Sibisi’s passion for spatial planning bears fruit
16. Trailblazer
The Western Cape’s Nuraan Deutschen is pioneering trauma recovery innovations in social work
18. Profiles in leadership
Shoeshoe Qhu has gone from community media volunteer to leading media development and diversity
22. Office of the President
Eskom is showing the way towards the empowerment of women in the workplace
FEATURES 28
24. World Tourism Day to shine a light on Northern Cape’s hidden gems Kimberley hosts this year’s World Tourism Day celebrations, highlighting the beauty of a region often overlooked
26. New World Heritage sites declared in South Africa
The Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal take top honours at the 46th World Heritage Committee session
28. Two-Pot Retirement System: balancing immediate access with longterm savings What GEPF members need to know and expect
30. Climate Change Act ushers in a new era of coordinated climate action
South Africa’s first comprehensive legislation will encourage the development of an effective climate change response
34. Revolutionising the Public Service: how AI can boost efficiency and effectiveness
Embracing generative AI could be the key to boosting efficiency in the sector
34. CBE launches youth assembly to enhance skills and drive innovation
Professionalisation of young graduates in the built environment to bridge spatial and income inequalities
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Writer: Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, MP: Minister for the Public Service and Administration
Rebuilding public trust in a purpose-driven public service
As we celebrate 30 years of democratic governance in our country, and as we celebrate Public Service Month, I am deeply honoured and privileged to have the opportunity to connect with you, the heart and soul of our nation's public service. Over the past three decades, we have made significant strides in transforming our public service to better serve the needs of all South Africans. However, we recognise that there is still much work to be done to build a truly professional, ethical and capable public service that is responsive, functional and driven by a deep commitment to the greater good.
This year’s Integrated Public Service Month is celebrated under the theme, “A Government that Works for You”. This is not merely an aspiration, but a clarion call to action. As the Minister for the Public Service
and Administration, I am fully committed to leading this transformative work, in partnership with all critical stakeholders, including you, the dedicated public servants who serve our nation.
As we commemorate Public Service Month, it is the perfect time to reflect on our progress, acknowledge the challenges we face, and rededicate ourselves to the noble cause of public service. This year's theme, "Re -
building trust in public service administration to strengthen our democracy," underscores our collective responsibility to rebuild the trust and respect that the Public Service deserves.
At the heart of this endeavour is the recognition that the Public Service plays a foundational role in the delivery of basic services and the realisation of our country's developmental goals. We must strive to ensure that every government department, across the length and breadth of our nation, is capable of delivering quality services, whether in the bustling cities or the remote rural areas.
To achieve this, we have identified several key priorities:
⦿ Improving trust in government and government services by decisively dealing with corruption and corrupt officials. We will swiftly act against those who abuse the State.
⦿ Enhancing discipline management to ensure that disciplinary processes are completed in a timely manner, and that senior management are held accountable. This will include conducting lifestyle audits across the board to identify and address any instances of personal and selfish gain.
⦿ Promote accountability and transparency through effective governance structures and reporting.
⦿ Modernising our service delivery monitoring systems to ensure that complaints are handled efficiently and that we can identify and address gaps where departments are lagging.
⦿ Embracing digitisation and leveraging Information Communication Technology innovations, including e-Recruitment, Human Resource Management and
Minister Buthelezi.
the delivery of government services.
⦿ Partnering with organised labour to ensure that the collective bargaining system works for improving the needs of public servants and government services and that resolutions are effectively implemented.
⦿ Enhancing the health and welfare of public servants by ensuring that our corporate services are responsive to their needs, particularly in the areas of mental health, tools of trade, and continued training and professional development. By targeting these areas, we
are confident that we can build a professional public service driven by a strong sense of purpose and commitment. We want to create an environment where teachers are respected as bearers of enlightenment, the police are celebrated as protectors of our nation, and doctors and nurses are cherished by the very communities they serve as life-savers and carers.
As we celebrate Public Service Month, I call upon public servants to embrace this transformative agenda and to be the agents of change we need. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to serv-
ing the people of South Africa are the foundation upon which we will rebuild public trust and create a purpose-driven public service.
Together, we will usher in reforms that will eliminate the tendency whereby the public service is frowned upon. The people of this country deserve a public service that is professional, functional, and driven by a deep commitment to the greater good. As the Ministry for the Public Service and Administration, we are committed to leading this charge, and we are confident that through collective effort and commitment to the ideals that have
sustained our democracy, we will emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve the needs of all South Africans.
I am excited to embark on this journey with you, and I look forward to the collective efforts that will transform our public service and restore the faith of the people we serve.
Thank you for your tireless service and dedication to our beloved country. Let us use this Public Service Month to renew our commitment to excellence and rebuild the dignity of public service. ❖
Photo: Eben Kassaye on Unsplash
Photo: Zach Wear on Unsplash
Photo: (SAPS) X account
Celebrating inclusion and diversity
As we celebrate Heritage Month, we take pride in recognising a significant milestone in our country’s journey towards inclusivity. This year, the title of Miss South Africa has been awarded to an exceptional individual who embodies the spirit of perseverance and diversity – 28-year-old Mia Le Roux. For the first time in the history of the pageant, the crown has been won by a remarkable young woman, who is hard-ofhearing, utilising the South African Sign Language (SASL) – an integral part of our heritage and recognised as an official language – as a core aspect of her identity.
Le Roux’s success has been
described as more than a personal triumph but a beacon of hope and a powerful message to all young people living with disabilities. Many have applauded her achievement as an illustration that there are no limits to what can be achieved when we embrace our uniqueness and harness our strengths. This historic moment aligns with government's ongoing commitment to fostering an equal society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Coincidentally, the win came exactly a year after the SASL became the 12th official language. At the time, South Africa became the fourth African country to recognise sign lan-
guage as an official language. This recognition not only honours our country’s rich cultural heritage but also reflects our commitment to ensuring that all citizens, including those living with disabilities, have the resources and support they need to fully participate in society.
South Africa has wholeheartedly embraced the SASL. In July 2024, we witnessed a historic moment when the national anthem was performed in the SASL for the first time at a sports event – during a rugby test match between South Africa and Ireland. The performance, delivered by a 12-yearold deaf pupil, Lisa Mkandla, reflects our nation’s commit-
ment to inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind.
The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 guarantees the right to equality for all citizens. It recognises people living disabilities as a historically disadvantaged group. This recognition is essential for addressing past inequalities and ensures that people living with disabilities are key beneficiaries of affirmative action, including appointments within the Public Service.
The recently published 30-Year Review of South Africa’s Democracy (1994 – 2024), highlights significant progress in the inclusion of people living
Nomonde Mnukwa, GCIS Acting Director-General.
with disabilities, marking a shift from viewing disability mainly as a medical or welfare issue to embracing a rights-based approach. According to the report, this change, driven by government efforts, is evident in new legislation, policies and programmes that emphasise the roles and responsibilities of various government departments and civil society organisations.
Despite these achievements, the report references the 2022/23 Commission for Employment Equity Annual Report, which highlights that the representation of persons with disabilities remains low across all six occupational levels. In the private sector, only 1.7% of top management positions are held by individuals with disabilities, and this figure is even lower at 1.4% in the government sector. The report notes that while there has been a gradual narrowing of these gaps, the pace of change has been slow.
As decision-makers in the public sector, it is essential for us to continue to implement these policies to ensure that we achieve equality in our spheres of operation. We should aim to create an environment where diversity and inclusion are not just goals but foundational principles that guide our work.
We can do this by familiarising ourselves with various government policies that support the employment of people living with disabilities such as the Code of Good Practice on the Employment of Persons with Disabilities, which guides employers and employees on promoting equal opportunities and fair treatment for people living with disabilities, as required by the Employment Equity Act of 1998, among other things.
The Act also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation in the workplace, including assistive devices, to employees living with disabilities – to meet their specific needs and ensuring their full participation in the workplace.
Le Roux’s win emphasises the importance of integrating inclusive practices to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, is given equal opportunities to contribute and excel.
As noted by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the signing ceremony of the SASL Bill into law, “having sign language recognised as an official language will address access to education, economic and other social opportunities as well as public participation”.
Soon, Le Roux will be flying the South African flag high on
the global stage, at the Miss Universe competition. Her presence will challenge the world to rethink how it views people living with disabilities, as they will have to adapt and
accommodate our queen. Let this achievement encourage and advance our shared goal of creating a society where everyone has a chance to thrive. ❖
Minister Buthelezi pledges to revitalise public service amid eroded trust and challenges
At a juncture when public trust in government institutions is tattered and pessimism is perverse, Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi, has the unenviable task of reversing the tide.
It is one that he does not consider insurmountable, mammoth as it is.
This much was apparent during an interview with Public Sector Manager (PSM) magazine at his Batho Pele House office in Pretoria.
September, celebrated as Public Service Month in South Africa, was a focal point of the discussion.
During the interview the Minister outlined his vision for the revitalisation of the Public Service, emphasising the need for the restoration of professionalism and ethical standards that have deteriorated in recent years. With that said, he is adamant that the 30 days of September should not be used to admonish public servants, but rather to celebrate their efforts.
“We are not going to use Public Service Month to highlight the wrongs that are happening within departments, it is not about that... We must not create a perception ourselves that suggests that everything is rotten in the Public Service,” said the Minister.
He stated that the annual event will instead be dedicated to honour those who have taken a conscious decision to serve in the public sector even when more lucrative opportunities were in the offering in the private sector.
“They chose not to go that
route... they chose a route that is serving their people. That is what we are going to do,” he said, adding that the period will also be used to ignite enthusiasm among public servants and revive commitment to service.
“Most of us when we take office, [whether] as a police [officer] or a nurse, there is an oath that you take which commits you to whatever work you are going to do. So, as we go, all those seem to fade into the background because of a number of challenges,” he reiterated.
Writer: Sihle Manda
“…as we try to deal with corruption through lifestyle audits, people should be encouraged to do the right thing without there being someone following them. We must also try to develop a culture within the public service that repels such elements and only attract people who are interested in serving.”
He said that Public Service Month should serve as a reminder of the valuable contributions public servants make to the country and encourage them to persist in their efforts, even when faced with challenging circumstances.
Not shying away from endemic challenges that continue to plague the sector, the Minister said it was important to address these issues if meaningful progress was to be made.
Professionalising the Public Service
In February 2024, the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) released Volume 1 of the Directive on Human Resources Management and Development for Public Service Professionalisation. The initiative is designed to enhance the efficacy, integrity and accountability of the Public Service.
This is in line with the government's efforts to combat corruption in the country, including
within the Public Service.
For Minister Buthelezi, the conversation starts with a question that has weighed heavily on many South Africans: “How did the country’s public service, once lauded for its professionalism and integrity, lose its way?”
For him, the answer is rooted in a gradual yet troubling shift in the relationship between politicians and public servants.
“The Public Service was professional,” the Minister recalls, with a mixture of pride and concern. “But somewhere along the way, we, as politicians, started to politicise public servants. Now, there is this call for professionalisation, as if the Public Service was never professional. I dispute that notion.”
For him, the decline in standards is not a reflection of a systemic failure, but rather the result of external pressures that have distracted public servants.
“Public servants were professional, they were ethical and had a keen interest to serve. That is why most of us when we were
growing up, we aspired to be public servants,” he asserted.
His responsibility and that of the DPSA, he added, is to try and depoliticise the Public Service.
“That means we are not introducing something new but we are removing something that I consider alien, we are asking public servants to go back to their core values,” he said.
Rebuilding public trust
The Minister believes that the effective utilisation of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the National School of Government (NSG) will go a long way in restoring the diminished trust in the Public Service.
While the PSC coordinates government’s efforts to eradicate corruption and maladministration in the State and develops and improves policy on ethics for the Public Service, the latter is tasked with ensuring that all public servants participate and complete education, training and development initiatives.
“The NSG comes to play a particular role when it comes to training public servants in a number of things, which includes ethics, among others. That is one initiative that the department has undertaken to make make sure that we professionalise the Public Service and bring back the public trust. If people are led by leaders who are unethical, who are not committed to the cause and leaders who neglect their duty and do not take serving people as a calling, that is a problem,” he said.
Lifestyle audits
Turning his attention to accomplishing an ethical public service, he is adamant that lifestyle audits are not the holy grail.
“All that I want to see happen-
The Minister for the Public Service and Administration Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi.
ing is that, as we try to deal with corruption through lifestyle audits, people should be encouraged to do the right thing without there being someone following them. We must also try to develop a culture within the public service that repels such elements and only attract people who are interested in serving.”
Innovation
The Minister said in his first two months in the role, he has been impressed by the innovation demonstrated by public servants.
“Public servants are coming up with new ways of how government can do things better and become efficient.”
However, he stressed that innovation should not leave behind the majority of the population.
Wage bill
In recent years, the general public has raised concerns on the country’s perceived “ballooning” public service wage bill. The Minister is , however, not convinced that this perception is accurate.
“I do not believe that the wage bill is ‘ballooning’. We must be very honest in analysing the status quo. You have almost 1.3 million public servants serving a population of over 60 million. You go to the police, and they
“The limited human resources are mostly being overstretched.”
will tell you [that] they should have one police officer serving a certain number of people, but that is not happening,” explained the Minister.
The genesis of the problem, for him, is the country’s stunted economic growth of recent years. However, he acknowledged that there are challenges within the system that need to be addressed.
“That (slow economic growth) should not be equated to the problem of the wage bill, because it is not. If the economy was growing as much as it should have, and if our population increase was not increasing in a manner that is not aligned with our economic growth, we would not be where we are,” he explained.
He noted that the public sector is not busting at the seams with excess staff, instead the limited human resources are mostly being overstretched.
Suspensions
Another challenge within the Public Service is the issue of long-standing unresolved suspensions. This problem is widespread, yet there are no specific statistics available on the exact number of cases.
These include the number of staff members spending excessive time on suspension as well as deadwood in some departments.
“We are told that some of them are not even in the coun-
try, some have been on suspension for over a thousand days, some have gone on to study and obtain degrees, some are owning businesses elsewhere. There is a serious problem in relation to that.”
He mentioned that the DPSA is working on a report to determine the exact number of suspended staff members in an effort to finalise the investigations.
The Minister stated that he aimed to leave a legacy of public servants returning to basics, where the principles of Batho Pele are not merely displayed on the walls of government departments but are actively practiced.
“You will know that there is Batho Pele because of your personal experience with every public servant. I would like to leave behind public servants that keep keeping on, no matter what.” ❖
Mokopane Home Affairs office.
Photo: GCIS
Experience Your Local National Park
Satikge-Sibisi’s passion for spatial planning bears fruit
As Chief Town and Regional Planner at the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, Sheena Satikge-Sibisi’s passion for creating sustainable and well-planned urban environments is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for South Africans.
She was among 100 successful applicants who were selected out of 3 100 applicants from Africa, Central and South Asia, and the Middle East to participate in the 2023 TechWomen programme held in the United State of America for five weeks.
The programme empowers, connects and supports the next generation of women leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from member continents. It enables them to advance their careers, pursue their dreams, and inspire women and girls in their communities.
“This is pivotal in building a robust network of professionals dedicated to leveraging technology for societal benefit. This incredibly enrich-
Photo: Simon Hurry on Unsplash
ing experience allowed me to contribute significantly to the advancement of women in STEM while gaining valuable insights and skills.
New knowledge and skills
“It allowed me to immerse myself in a comprehensive mentorship programme, where I received guidance and training from leading professionals in Silicon Valley,” explained Satikge-Sibisi.
During the programme, she focused on understanding latest technological innovations and their applications to development initiatives, particularly the advancements in spatial and land use management within
the South African context. Each participant was assigned to company and professional mentors.
Satikge-Sibisi was among five dynamic women from various professions who represented South Africa. They had to develop and present a project addressing specific challenges facing the country.
Their project focused on increasing exposure, participation, and the empowerment of young girls and women in the STEM sector and contributing towards bridging the digital divide.
“We were also provided with impact coaches who imparted invaluable skills and knowledge on pitch and professional development. By applying the
knowledge gained during the programme, we developed sustainable solutions to increase and enhance the contribution of girls and women in STEM fields,” she said.
“My participation in the programme significantly influenced my approach and perspective towards the cautious yet highly positive utilisation of artificial intelligence, computerprogrammed applications and technology, particularly when aligned with sustainable development goals,” she added.
Career path
Satikge-Sibisi has been a public servant for approximately 12 years but has also worked in the
private and non-government organisation sectors.
She holds a Bachelor of Science Honours in Town and Regional Planning from Wits University and a Master of Science from Erasmus University, International Housing Studies Institute in the Netherlands, where she received training in housing studies specialising in land development strategies.
She is currently pursuing a PhD in Town and Regional Planning. In her current job, she is responsible for spatial coordination of national spatial planning policy and frameworks towards the implementation of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA) of 2013. Her key roles include performing and managing all aspects of spatial planning, land use management, rural development and land reform planning for the purposeful development of rural areas.
“My career highlight has been presiding over the development the National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF), which was approved by Cabinet and the President [more than a year ago]. I was part of the leading team responsible for the development of the NSDF and its approval,” she said.
The NSDF is a critical spatial transformation tool for the coun-
Chief Director for Integrated Spatial Planning at the DALRRD, Sheena Satikge-Sibisi
try, which touches on areas of spatial justice and the paramount need for the attainment of resilient, inclusive regional development.
It addresses Chapter Eight of the National Development Plan 2030, which highlights the critical role of spatial transformation in tackling poverty and inequality.
“The NSDF aims to disrupt apartheid spatial patterns and create better living environments for all South Africans,” she explained.
She finds fulfilment in influencing the development of infrastructure, housing, and public spaces in a way that promotes social equity and environmental sustainability.
“It allows me to ceaselessly serve my country and contribute to moving from where we are to
the South Africa we want and need,” she said.
30 years overview
Satikge-Sibisi said over the last 30 years, government has proactively adhered to the foundation laid out by the country’s Constitution in addressing the discriminatory spatial legacies of apartheid.
“The department has contributed effectively to reverse the challenges of spatial apartheid by providing much needed policy and regulatory guidance with the enactment of the SPLUMA [of] 2013.
“The SPLUMA through its founding principle of spatial justice, amongst others, provides a framework for spatial planning and land use management in South Africa that seeks to promote social and economic inclu-
sion, and address the fragmented and unequal spatial planning legacy of apartheid,” she explained. She noted that by promoting integrated, inclusive and sustainable spatial planning and land use management, the SPLUMA aims to transform the spatial landscape of the country, fostering more equitable and efficient development that reverses the placement of black communities on the outskirts of cities and urban areas to be centrally located to places of work, education and other opportunities.
Gender equality
For her, the 30 years of freedom and democracy means a celebration of the country’s achievements and a call to action to address the remaining challenges.
“It is a reminder of the importance of leveraging our posi -
tions to advocate for continued progress in gender equality and social justice. I see women more than ever being committed to fostering environments where they can thrive and contribute to the ongoing transformation of our society not only in the economy or professional lives, but also in communities and families,” she said.
She added that this anniversary is a pledge to build a future where freedom and democracy are truly realised for all.
“In my career, this anniversary is a testimony to the strides we have made towards gender equality and women's empowerment. We live in an era that has produced the most women professionals in my sector.
“Being part of setting the necessary spatial planning and land use management policy guidance means my voice, technical expertise, and leadership have shaped history and contributed to the public sector progress. It symbolises the breaking of barriers and the creation of opportunities that were once unimaginable,” she said.
The principles of freedom and democracy have not only allowed Satikge-Sibisi to pursue her professional ambitions but have also provided her a platform to influence and inspire future generations of women leaders. ❖
Photo: Simon Hurry on Unsplash
Nuraan Deutschen honoured for pioneering trauma innovationsrecovery in social work
Nuraan Deutschen's commitment to social work was profoundly influenced by her father's example of selflessness and compassion. Watching him dedicate countless hours to helping others –whether distributing food or offering support to those in crisis – left a lasting impression on her. Inspired by his dedication, she chose to follow in his footsteps, aiming to make a similar impact in her community.
It was primarily for this reason that in 2006, after completing her matric, she enrolled for a course in Social Auxiliary Work at the City Mission Organisation in Hanover Park.
“Academically I did exceptionally well, and the head of the organisation decided to take my portfolio of evidence and sub -
Sihle Manda
Photo: Western Cape Government Service Excellence Awards website
Nuraan Deutschen.
“My long-term goal is to become a leader in the field, inspiring and mentoring future generations of social workers.”
mitted it to the Department of Social Work at the University of the Western Cape,” she recalled.
The impressive portfolio saw Deutschen admitted for a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at the institution.
“That is when I decided to pursue a career in Social Work,” she said.
She began her career in Child Protection at Child Welfare Grabouw. After a three-month stint, as a scholarship holder, she was offered a job at the Department of Social Development, Caledon Local Office in the Cape Winelands Region.
Innovation
Her passion has, over the years, continued to simmer and her efforts have not gone unnoticed. This was testament at the Western Cape government’s Public Service Awards, where she received the Best Public Service Innovator Employee Award for pioneering three research programmes despite challenging conditions as a social worker in
the Department of Social Development Overstrand district office.
Among the innovative work was the Mother and Daughter Programme that she designed in 2016, after discovering the scarring effects of trauma and loss on victims. It is designed to preserve the relationship between a mother and daughter to heal emotional rifts caused by the trauma experienced.
“It was not only designed for the Victim Empowerment Programme but is multifaceted and can accommodate programmes such as child protection, foster care, substance abuse and social crime prevention, among others.
She also developed the concept of "A Victor’s Personal Healing Journey" (Victim Empowerment Workshop) – a programme designed to ensure that victims and survivors who suffered harm or loss are trauma informed and actively work to reduce re-traumatisation.
“The aim is to help children heal, to be empowered, learn positive skills and behaviour,
improve interaction with others and learn healthy coping skills,” she emphasised.
Deutschen was also lauded for developing the Toolbox for Survivors – designed to respond to the high demand and enhancement of statistics of domestic violence pertaining to adult victims in the Overstrand District.
“The overall goal is to create a safe space for survivors to reframe and reclaim their stories and experiences through the healing power of storytelling, assisting victims of gender-based violence to regain a sense of control through psychosocial support services,” she added.
Her innovation on the Mother and Daughter Programme was adopted regionally as best practice.
“Humbled and grateful,” she remarked, adding how encouraging it was to see the positive impact of her work in her district. She added that the reward was a testament to the power of perseverance and collaboration.
Teamwork
“I acknowledge the collective effort and support of my colleagues who helped [me] tirelessly to overcome these obstacles. This recognition motivates me to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new ideas and driving positive change,” she said.
Talking of her future aspirations, she reiterated that her social work career aspirations were centered around making a positive impact on individuals, families and communities.
“My long-term goal is to become a leader in the field, inspiring and mentoring future generations of social workers.
“If one day I retire, I would like to be remembered as a dedicated and compassionate social worker who made a lasting difference in the lives of others. I hope to be remembered for my unwavering commitment to social justice and my contributions to the development of innovative and effective social work practices.” ❖
From community media volunteer to leading media development and diversity
Writer: More Matshediso
Photo: Supplied by the MDDA
MDDA CEO Shoeshoe Qhu.
When Shoeshoe Qhu began her journey as a volunteer in community media, she could hardly have imagined that she would eventually lead an organisation dedicated to advancing the very sector she is so passionate about.
Today Qhu is the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), which is responsible for promoting media development and diversity. The agency also funds community media projects, such as radio, television, print and digital publications on an annual basis. It also funds small commercial print publications.
“I define media diversity as redressing the imbalances of the past, ensuring there is a plurality of voices in the media and that communities have ownership of and access to media,” Qhu explained. Her career started in 2004, as volunteer field reporter for Sesotho news at Radio Zibonele– one of the oldest community radio stations in Cape Town.
Reflecting on her career journey over the past two decades, four things come to her mind as she motivates young media practitioners who want to follow on her steps.
“Work hard and refine your skill and art of storytelling, whether audio or visual, or new media. Make sure you are excellent at what you do. Make meaningful connections with people in the industry because mentors are important in helping you grow in your career,” said Qhu.
She also urged young professonals to acquire new skills, including coding, critical thinking, and any other skill that can help them do their work more efficiently.
“Opportunities will find you along the way. Do not stop. It might be easy to abandon the journey along the way, but that should not be an option for you. Keep going,” she added.
Her experience spans over community, commercial and the public broadcasting sectors, and she is an advocate for media freedom, development and diversity. She currently sits on the board of
the Institute of the Freedom of Expression.
Before assuming her current role, Qhu served as programmes manager at SAfm and Talk Radio 702. She has extensive experience consulting and providing training for community radio stations, developing content concepts, and formulating monetisation strategies.
She has also worked as an Acting Station Manager at the Voice of Wits, the operations and strategic functions of the university’s campus radio station based at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Before that, Qhu worked as a freelance broadcaster and producer for the Government Communications and Information System, which the MDDA reports to.
She also served as a content producer with a focus on digital media and as an on-air contributor at Kaya FM and SABC Radio News.
Alongside her dedication to personal growth, Qhu imparts her expertise by teaching New and Emerging Technology for Radio at the Wits Radio Academy. She often facilitates workshops
on radio, digital media, and the role of community radio in media development and diversity.
She is currently pursuing a Master of Management in Governance and Management Degree at Wits University. Her other qualifications include an Honours degree in Strategic Brand Management from Vega School and a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Communications with a specialisation in Brand Management and Digital Marketing from the Association of Advertising Agencies.
Navigating digital transformation
The MDDA Act of 2002 focuses on broadcast television and radio, and print media.
Since the Act was passed, the media landscape has undergone significant changes, including the rise of podcasts and the emergence of major digital content platforms like Google, which have become key aggregators of news.
“There is a need for the media industry, especially the community media sec -
tor, to expand our offering,” said Qhu.
The rise of podcasts and large digital content platforms has put the MDDA’s funding model to the test.
Over the years, broadcasters and major print media outlets were required to pay levies to fund the MDDA’s grants for community publications. However, the digital evolution of the media industry came with various challenges, including revenue challenges and declining advertising. This led to many print media outlets being unable to afford to pay levies to the MDDA.
This left the MDDA with a reduced budget to fund community newspapers.
Unlike community newspapers, broadcast projects do not face the same level of hardship. However, Qhu noted that the agency still lacks sufficient funds to adequately support the entire sector.
“There are more than 270 community radio stations in the country, but less than 30 of them receive grant funding from the MDDA. Although community broadcasting has grown exponen-
tially over the last 25 years, the challenges of sustainability have also increased,” she explained.
In addition to the ongoing risk across the community media sector – such as poor governance, compliance issues, lack of skills and capacity, and high staff turnover – Qhu noted that unsustainability remains a key factor threatening the sector’s survival.
“Currently, we are focusing on bolstering our fundraising abilities to amass more money to support the whole sector.
“I believe that digital and social media platforms, and news content have significantly disrupted print media by shifting audience preferences towards real-time, easily accessible, and interactive formats, leading to a decline in print circulation and advertising revenue,” she said.
Way forward
Qhu suggests that transitioning fully online might be the first step toward guiding community print media to the right direction.
“High cost of data, limited Internet access, and the predominance of English in online publications and platforms are barriers for communities to access relevant and reliable information. Community media also plays a big role in ensuring that communities have access to information in their indigenous languages,” she explained.
She acknowledges that print media, like other sectors, has had to adapt significantly to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world driven by globalisation and technological advancements.
“A key challenge for the community print and small commercial media is how to harness the advantages of the digital era and at the same time lessen the impact of the digital divide on communities,” she noted.
According to the MDDA’s 2020/21 – 2024/25 Strategic Plan, the agency has initiated a study to evaluate the skills levels and identify gaps within the community media sector. The findings, together with other inputs, such as the MDDA’s monitoring
and evaluation reports, will inform the development of a comprehensive capacitybuilding strategy for the next five years.
“This will guide the MDDA’s training interventions to ensure that it focuses tightly on the skills gaps within the sector, providing media projects with the skills required to safeguard their future sustainability,” Qhu explained.
The CEO recommends that the sector should reduce its dependencce on grant funding and traditional advertising revenue, but instead explore innovative revenue streams to achieve financial sustainability.
“There is also a need for the digital transformation of community media, equipping them with the necessary tools, skills, and infrastructure to thrive in the digital era. The agency has built partnerships with other organisations to help the sector acquire future-proof skills,” she said.
Qhu believes that a diverse media landscape ensures that all voices are heard, promoting a more inclusive and democratic society. ❖
Eskom is showing the way towards the empowerment of women in the workplace
We have just ended Women’s Month, in which we have celebrated the achievements of South Africa’s women across many areas of life.
We have recognised the great progress that has been made in improving the position of women in our society. We have also recognised the many challenges that still remain and the tasks that we must undertake to build a truly non-sexist and equal society.
At the same time, the country has gone more than 150 days without load shedding. This is in large part due to the concerted efforts of the
leadership and staff of Eskom to im-prove the performance of its power stations.
While there is much attention on what Eskom is doing to stabilise our electricity system, another significant change has been quietly underway at the company over the course of the last few years. Women are taking a more prominent role in the work of Eskom and are playing a pivotal role in keeping the country’s lights on.
Two years ago, I met with Eskom’s power station managers, and I was pleased to see that a number of them were women. I found this to
be a complete departure from the past where power station managers were always white men. This represented tremendous transformation on a demographic as well as gender basis.
The inspiring story of Maserati Lesolang, the general manager of the Matla power station in Mpumalanga, is a demonstration of Eskom’s successes in growing a new generation of female leaders. Under Lesolang’s able leadership, Matla power station has implemented a turnaround plan resulting in it now being among Eskom’s better performing power stations.
Photo: Freepik
At a number of state-owned enterprises, women are excelling not only in management and leadership positions, but also in technical roles and occupations that were previously the preserve of men.
Within Eskom itself, women are working as power station managers, engineers, artisans, operators and technicians.
This is the result of a deliberate and sustained initiative to increase female representation in the form of Eskom’s Women Advancement Programme. The programme was launched ten years ago to redress the underrepresentation of women in leadership and technical roles at Eskom.
The programme’s focus has been on creating a pipeline of female leaders. It has also focused on transforming work-
place culture to make it more gender-friendly, on skilling and training more women to occupy specialist roles, to conduct outreach in communities where Eskom operates, and to address issues of equal work for equal pay.
Among the achievements of the programme since its inception has been that just over 33% of Eskom’s workforce is now female, 20% of Eskom executives are women, and women occupy approximately 43% of senior management roles. This is important progress, but there is still some way to go to achieve gender parity.
Eskom has succeeded in narrowing the gender pay gap from 41% to below 6%. The company’s procurement spend on black women-owned businesses has increased from R6 billion in
2013 to over R16 billion by 2022.
The national power utility continues to invest heavily in skilling and training for women, with just over half of further study opportunities at Eskom taken up by women.
Another key focus area of the programme is conducting outreach at schools and in communities to encourage female learners to consider future careers at Eskom.
Earlier this year, Eskom also launched the Young Professionals Development Programme, a graduate trainee programme that places participants in positions across the span of its operations. Eskom has made a concerted effort to encourage female graduates to apply.
We call on other companies, both public and private, to put in place deliberate pro-grammes to
eradicate workplace discrimination and make workplaces more conducive to women’s participation and development. Companies need to empower women in decision-making and technical roles. This is to ensure that every workplace and every occupation reflects the demographics of our country.
We must commend the leadership of Eskom and of other state-owned entities, as well as many other businesses, for all they are doing to advance gender equality in the work-place. By continuing and intensifying this work, we can make sure that we have more and more to celebrate during Women’s Month in the years to come. ❖
*This message was first published on 2 September 2024*
Photo: GCIS
World Tourism Day to shine a light on Northern Cape’s hidden gems
Kimberley, located in the Northern Cape, is known for its breath-taking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of adventure and immersion. This year, the stunning province will host World Tourism Day celebrations, highlighting not only its diverse attractions but also aiming to spotlight a region often overlooked. From
the dramatic vistas of the Kalahari Desert to the vibrant wildflowers of Namaqualand, Kimberley exemplifies the province's exceptional natural beauty and captivating scenery.
Against this backdrop, Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille launched Tourism Month on 20 August 2024 to highlight the exciting festivities and events
scheduled across the country throughout the month.
World Tourism Day is observed worldwide on September 27 each year. Initiated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), it aims to align global tourism practices with the Sustainable Development Goals. In South Africa, the celebration extends
throughout September, known as Tourism Month. This year’s UNWTO theme is, “Tourism and Peace”.
“For South Africa, we have decided to expand the theme to; “Tourism and Peace – 30 years of connecting people, places and culture”. We acknowledge and recognise that in a world where nations are increasingly
Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) Commissioner and Executive Director Dr Crispian Olver
interconnected, tourism is a powerful tool to break down barriers, defy stereotypes and challenge prejudices,” stated the Minister.
Astro-Tourism
This year, South Africa will celebrate World Tourism Day in Carnarvon, Northern Cape, where the departments of Tourism, and Science and Innovation will promote the National Astro-Tourism Strategy.
“There are immense opportunities for Astro-Tourism in South Africa with, especially, in the Northern Cape and this is why we are intentional about selecting this province and the town of Carnarvon,” the Minister emphasised.
The Northern Cape is leading South Africa’s proactive stance in the development of the world’s largest space telescope array with a comprehensive astro-strategy. Just outside the small town of Carnarvon, a major global initiative is underway to construct the most powerful radio telescope on the planet.
This launch seeks to spotlight these remarkable experiences and invite both South Africans and international visitors to discover the Northern Cape’s unique cultural and traditional offerings. The Square Kilometre Array and astro-tourism are pivotal in advancing the Karoo
region, fostering opportunities for rural and agri-tourism.
The departments of Tourism, and Science and Innovation have jointly developed the National Astro-Tourism Strategy to position South Africa as a world-class astro-tourism destination. The strategy emphasises infrastructure development, the efficient operation of astronomy-tourism activities, and, in particular, community transformation.
At the launch of Tourism Month, the Minister reminded South Africans that tourism is a powerful transformative tool and one of the priority sectors that contribute to the economy and to job creation.
“Employment in the tourism sector is projected to grow from 1.7 million jobs in 2024 to 2.2 million by 2030, with tourism
jobs expected to make up 12.8% of total employment by 2030 for South Africa,” highlighted the Minister.
Domestic tourism
A major focus of Tourism Month is to encourage South Africans to explore their own country.
Recognising the financial constraints faced by many, South African Tourism hosts the Sho’t Left Travel Week at the beginning of September each year. This initiative offers locals the opportunity to book local destinations at promotional rates.
“Our domestic market is a powerhouse with the tourism sector. In 2023, South Africa recorded 38 million domestic trips, which contributed R121 billion in spend to the economy,” stated the Minister.
To grow tourism’s contribution
to the economy, the Department of Tourism is developing a five-year plan in alignment with the Government of National Unity priorities. Part of the department’s targets will be to boost tourism arrivals to fifteen million by 2030 as outlined in the National Development Plan. The department will prioritise job creation in the tourism sector by advancing programmes that support the private sector.
The department plans to partner with Operation Vulindlela, as well as the departments of Home Affairs, Transport, and Sports, Arts and Culture to improve the visa system, grow the number of direct flights, simplify tour operator licensing and invest in infrastructure that reflects and showcases the country's diverse offerings for visitors.
Tourism Month 2024 will not only celebrate the sector’s significant milestones and the progress made over the past 30 years but will also highlight the work still ahead. This period provides South Africans with a chance to recommit to enhancing the sector’s contribution to the global economy.
“Tourism Month is not merely an occasion for celebration, but it is a powerful period for promoting advocacy and action,” concluded the Minister. ❖
Minister Patricia de Lille.
Writer: Dr Mariagrazia Galimberti, Amafa and Research Institute and Khwezi kaMpumlwana, Resistance and Liberation Heritage Route Photos: KwaZulu-Natal Amafa and Research Institute
New World Heritage sites declared in South Africa
Founder of the Black Consciousness Movement, the late Steve Biko once remarked, “great powers of the world have done wonders in giving the world an industrial look, but the great gift still has to come from Africa – giving the world a more human face”. In response to questions on what Africa has to offer to the world, the late internationally renowned paleoanthropologist, Professor Phillip Tobias, told the critics that, “Africa has given the world humanity. That is not a bad contribution”.
This perspective was reaffirmed during the 46th World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi, India, at the end of July 2024, when two new South African sites were added to the World Heritage List. These sites, representing two different historical eras, underscore the interconnectedness of our shared humanity.
On 26 July 2024, the committee successfully inscribed the nomination, “The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa” on the World Heritage List. This inscription highlights how scientists found the first evidence of human modernity in archaeological sites in South Africa, dating back to approximately 162 000 years ago.
On 27 July, following an inspiring discussion, where all 21 committee members emphasised
the significance of the “Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites,” the World Heritage Committee inscribed the site as the first World Heritage Property under the African Liberation Heritage Programme. The decision advances the 2005 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) resolution on African Roads to Independence.
The Nelson Mandela Legacy sites property demonstrates the principles of inclusive human rights, the importance of liberation and the transformative power of reconciliation. It also celebrates the collective victory of humanity over the evil of
apartheid, articulates a sharp call for peaceful conclusion of conflicts and a permanent rebuke to every form of apartheid. Both inscriptions are serial sites, hence they comprise several components in one single World Heritage Site. The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour currently spans through three archaeological sites – Diepkloof Rock Shelter and Pinnacle Point site Complex, in the Western Cape and Sibhudu Cave in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Nelson Mandela Legacy sites encompass a broad geographical area, including: • components of the Sharpeville Massacre, Liliesleaf, the June 1976 Streets of Orlando West,
Pinnacle Point.
Walter Sisulu Square, Union Buildings and Constitution Hill in Gauteng;
• the Great Place of Mqhekezweni and Fort Hare, inclusive of ZK Matthews House, in the Eastern Cape;
• Waaihoek Wesleyan Church in the Free State; and
• Ohlange in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour provides scientists with evidence of how humans started becoming behaviourally modern and more complex, dating back aproximately 162 000 years. This evidence is reflected in several key practices, including the decoration of bodies with shell beads, indicating a new level self-awareness; in the use of engravings on eggshell used as storage water containers, signifying ownership; in the consistent use of shellfish, demonstrating an understanding of the tidal system; in the development and
use of composite tools, such as bow and arrow, showcasing our ancestors’ ability to strategically use different materials to achieve specific goals.
All components of the Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites bear witness not only to the struggle against apartheid; but also to Mandela's contribution to freedom, human rights and peace. They are tangibly associated with significant international events, ideas and literary works.
This inscription was especially significant for both South Africa and the world, as it closes a crucial gap in the World Heritage List by recognising sites related to memory and the African liberation struggles, which have been underrepresented. These sites honour the sacrifices made for, and victory of the values of human rights, freedom and reconciliation. They celebrate the safeguarding of human rights, which are central to the Ubuntu
philosophy: “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu” – “You are because I am, I am because you are”.
Safeguarding the sites
The commitment to safeguarding these newly inscribed sites is a collective effort involving local communities, stakeholders and authorities. The dedication of local communities and civil society is crucial to preserving the integrity and authenticity of these important properties. As we celebrate both Tourism and Heritage Month, we are reminded of the unifying power of heritage and its ability to foster tourism. The inscription of these World Heritage sites is expected to develop pride, social cohesion and national identity among local communities and visitors. It will also support socio-economic development and create economic opportunities through sustainable tourism and related
activities. This will be as much a priority, as the duty to ensure conservation and sustainability of these properties.
While sites such as Diepkloof Rock Shelter, Pinnacle Point Site Complex, Liliesleaf, Constitution Hill, the Union Buildings and Ohlange are already open to the public, others, including Sibhudu Cave and ZK Matthews House, are in the process of being prepared for visitation. Efforts are underway to ensure that the sites can be accessed while also benefiting local communities. The inscription of the two South African sites has been complemented by the addition of three other sites in the continent – the Royal Court of Tiébélé in Burkina Faso, the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi in Kenya and the Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area in Ethiopia. The inscription of these five World Heritage sites re-ignite the commitment of the region, the World Heritage Committee, the African World Heritage Fund, the World Heritage Centre and its advisory bodies to ensure a more representative and credible list as highlighted in the Priority Africa Strategy for World Heritage. ❖
Sibhudu Cave.
Diepkloof Rock Shelter.
Two-Pot Retirement System: balancing immediate access with long-term savings
The Two-Pot Retirement System, which came into place on 1 September 2024, changes how all future contributions and benefits to retirement funds in South Africa are treated.
The reason for these changes is to improve retirement outcomes, while providing members access to a portion of their retirement savings prior to retirement.
By providing limited access to funds prior to retirement, government acknowldges that members experience life events during their working years which may require access to emergency funds. However, by requiring a portion of the fund to be preserved until retirement, government aims to ensure that members have sufficient income when they retire.
Example: a year after implementation
This is an illustration of what a pension fund statement could look like 12 months after implementation. This assumes 16 years of service as of 1 September 2025, based on the member accumulating 15 years of pensionable service up to 31 August 2024 and an additional year of service up to 1 September 2025. This also assumes that you do not make any withdrawal between 1 September 2024 and 1 September 2025.
• Vested pot would reflect 15 years of pensionable service.
• Retirement pot would reflect eight months of retirement service.
• Savings pot would reflect four months of savings service.
Allocation of pensionable service
The implementation of the TwoPot Retirement System does not impact benefits earned up until 31 August 2024. Years of service earned up to 31 August 2024, will remain separate and are referred to as “vested service”.
However, all pensionable years of service from 1 September will be split between retirement service and savings service. Twothirds of pensionable service will go to the Retirement Pot and one-third to the Savings Pot. For GEPF members this means that for every year of future pensionable service, four months will be allocated to savings service and eight months will be allocated to retirement service.
Members will receive a single
Photo: GEPF
Photo: GEPF
benefit statement that separately reflects the benefits in each pot.
Access for life events
A special, once-off transfer of “seed capital” will be added to the savings pot. This is an amount equal to 10% of the benefit value of your fund as of 31 August, however this is capped to a maximum of R30 000.
Members will be able to access any funds in their savings pot once a year. There is no limit on how much the member may withdraw from the savings pot, however the minimum withdrawal amount is R2 000. That means a member must have a balance of R2 000 or more in the savings pot to make a withdrawal. Note that all withdrawals will be taxed at a member’s marginal tax rate. This means a member will receive the funds, less tax.
Members are encouraged to only withdraw these funds for emergencies as any withdrawal will reduce their retirement outcomes. If a member withdrew the full value of the savings pot each year, a member would reduce their benefit by four months for every one year of pensionable service. This would significantly reduce the gratuity paid at retirement.
Protecting your retirement
The funds in the retirement pot will not be accessible before retirement. This will ensure that when members resign or change jobs, they do not deplete the funds required for their retirement years. Prior to retirement, these funds will only be available upon death or ill- health. If a member resigns or is retrenched, they would have access to their vested pot and savings pot, however the retire -
ment pot will be preserved within the GEPF and will be paid as a deferred pension once the member retires. Alternatively, a member could opt to have the full benefit transferred to an approved retirement fund.
Protecting your vested service
The Two-Pot Retirement System will only affect future contributions and benefits. The years of pensionable service at the 31 August 2024, will be protected and the same rights will be retained. This is known as your vested service and commonly referred to as the “vested pot”. This means that if you had to resign from the GEPF, you would still be able to withdraw the value of your vested service. In fact, your vested pot is payable to you on all forms of exit. The value of the vested service will be based on existing GEPF rules and will be determined by salary and actuarial factors.
What members need to consider
We strongly advise members to keep their retirement savings invested throughout their entire retirement journey. Relying solely on the retirement pot may not ensure a comfortable retirement. Diversifying financial planning and having additional savings for emergencies separate from retirement
benefits is highly recommended. Consider the Savings Pot as a safety net for unforeseen circumstances, rather than a regular income supplement. Savings withdrawals should ideally be reserved for emergencies. It is important to understand the financial implications of withdrawals, including the tax liability and impact on gratuity and pensions at retirement.
Preserving retirement savings is crucial for a stable financial future. Early withdrawals not only reduce available funds but also impact pensionable service and gratuity benefits upon retirement. Approach retirement savings with a preservation mindset, considering the long-term effects of decisions.
The Two-Pot Retirement System introduced in pension reforms addresses challenges faced by retirement fund members in South Africa. It enhances preservation of savings while providing flexibility for those facing financial hardship, without needing to leave their jobs. The system offers a balanced approach, allowing immediate access to a portion of savings through the Savings Pot while securing and growing the majority in the Retirement Pot. The Fund is committed to providing clear information and a seamless experience, with details on partial withdrawal procedures communicated as finalised. ❖
Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) Commissioner and Executive Director Dr Crispian Olver
Climate Change Act ushers in a new era of coordinated climate action
The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) has welcomed the recent signing of the Climate Change Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa into law.
The Climate Change Act, 22 of 2024 sets out the legal mandate for countrywide climate change
response, to enable the alignment of South Africa’s climate change response policy and actions, including mitigation and adaptation actions, which also constitutes our country’s fair contribution to the global climate change response.
While a few state departments
and other government agencies have just transition outcomes explicitly outlined in their annual performance plans, the Act, now clearly instructs every organ of state to review and if necessary, revise, amend, coordinate and harmonise their policies and measures, programmes and decisions in order to ensure that the risks of climate change impacts and associated vulnerabilities are taken into consideration.
The Climate Change Act of 2024, is South Africa’s first comprehensive legislation to encourage the development of an effective climate change response and states as its purpose “To enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climateresilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development”.
“Undoubtedly, any successful climate action effort will require alignment of major socialeconomic, environmental and governance policies. We are entering a new phase of climate action and we believe the Climate Change Act, will foster institutional coherence and enhance climate change adaptation governance across the national, provincial and local layers of government,” said Dr Crispian Olver, PCC Commissioner and Executive Director.
Outlining roles
“As we raise the curtain on the 7th Administration of the Democratic Government of National Unity, we welcome this groundbreaking legalisation, which not only clearly sets out the functions of the Presidential Climate Commission but outlines the role of provinces and municipalities will play in mitigation efforts to ensure the realisation of the vision for effective climate change response and just transition to a climate-resilient and low-carbon economy and society,” said Olver. The commission will continue to strengthen its relations with government, particularly the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and National Treasury in giving life to the Act. ❖
Photo: Arno Senoner on Unsplash
Revolutionising the Public Service: how AI can boost efficiency and effectiveness
South Africa’s 2023 Governance, Public Safety and Justice Survey reveals a troubling decline in public trust towards essential services such as transport and clinics, a stark contrast to the more favourable perceptions reported in 2019. This drop in satisfaction, evident across various provinces, underscores pervasive issues such as subpar service quality, extended wait times and unhelpful public servants. Although the newly formed Government of National Unity offers a glimmer of hope for improvement, there is an urgent need for immediate and effective solutions.
Our research shows that embracing generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be the key to revitalising and modernising South Africa’s public service, addressing these critical challenges head-on. Generative AI, a subset of AI, is revolutionising how we create content, from text and images to more complex outputs, based on extensive training data. Its transformative impact spans various sectors, and governments worldwide are taking note.
Global insights and success stories
According to Accenture’s report title, Work, Workforce, Workers: Reinvented in the Age of Generative AI, 42% of all working hours in the global public sector could be enhanced or automated with generative AI. Examples of its application include the US State Tax Department, where AI replaced existing machine learning algorithms with a large language model (LLM) to improve incoming call intent discovery and efficiency. Additionally, a Federal Agency utilised an LLM to streamline processing and submission times, leading to an estimated annual saving of $150 million.
Citizens are also catching on to its transformative potential and pushing for its implementation in the public service. The survey highlights this demand as 53% of citizens find accessing public services frustrating, and 39% desire more digital interactions with government. Generative AI stands poised to revolutionise the Public Service by dramatically boosting efficiency and effectiveness. This transforma-
Photo: Junaifd Kleinschmidt
tive technology can reinvent how public services operate, from personalising citizen engagement and enhancing call centres to accelerating workforce productivity. It also has the potential to make employees’ jobs that much easier, with 80% of public service leaders believing that intelligent technologies can enhance job satisfaction. By automating and augmenting a significant portion of languagerelated tasks, generative AI promises to disrupt up to 75% of traditional work activities. The result? More streamlined operations, higher quality of service for the public, and freeing up more time for an already overburdened workforce.
Challenges and considerations
Implementing generative AI
About Accenture
comes with its own set of challenges. Governments face hurdles such as security concerns, software vulnerabilities and social biases. In South Africa, these issues are particularly pressing, as government has increasingly become a target for cybercriminals, recently highlighted by a data breach at the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission that exposed vulnerabilities in government departments.
To address these risks, it is crucial to upskill government employees, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of the technology and are prepared to handle any emerging issues. Additionally, in a country with deep-seated inequality, there is a significant concern that AI could inadvertently reinforce existing biases.
South Africa is far from implementing comprehensive generative AI solutions in the public sector, but we are taking steps in the right direction. Our legal sphere is evolving to tackle the legislative implications that come with this technology through the establishment of an AI policy and regulatory framework.
To effectively navigate challenges and implement changes across the Public Service, a comprehensive strategy grounded in proven methods and expertise is essential. Accenture's work with generative AI showcases its potential to significantly boost efficiency and reduce operational costs. Early trials have demonstrated impressive results, including a 10 to 40% increase in developer productivity and the elimination
of delays in handling employee support queries. Productivity per employee is expected to rise by at least 25%, and data collection time has been reduced by 98%. The introduction of new self-service capabilities further highlights these advancements. To facilitate rapid and strategic deployment, Accenture has established a Gen AI Hub, dedicated to aligning use cases, prioritising skill development, and scaling AI solutions effectively. The company’s 'Hub-and-Spoke’ model ensures scalable implementation, supported by a range of enterprise products and platforms. Embracing generative AI presents a valuable opportunity to transform and enhance the delivery and management of public services in South Africa, paving the way for a more efficient and tech-savvy future. ❖
Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments and other organisations build their digital core, optimise their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services—creating tangible value at speed and scale. Visit us at www.accenture.com
Photo: Steve Johnson on Unsplash
CBE launches youth assembly to enhance skills and drive innovation
In an effort to future-proof
South Africa’s built environment, the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) is unveiling its Youth Assembly initiative. This programme targets young South Africans aged 18 to 35, including students, graduates, candidates, and registered professionals, with the aim of building a robust skills pipeline and fostering industry connections.
With the programme, Thembakazi Moya, CBE Chief Transformation Officer (CTO) said the council seeks to provide an opportunity for young people to connect with each other, as well as with industry experts and professionals.
The young people will engage on a myriad of issues pertaining to the built environment sector, ethics, professional registration and opportunities available to them.
Above this, they will engage to promote collaboration, innovation and “encourage [each other] to claim their rightful spaces and be part of the discussions on envisioning the future.
“The CBE Youth Assembly will bring students and young professionals closer to the industry they will be working in and allow them to make their voices heard and contribute to changes that take place in the sector. The youth will also be able to network with industry and will be exposed to opportunities.”
Transforming the sector
In 2019, the CBE organised its 3rd Transformation Indaba to ad-
dress barriers to transformation in the sector. This event resulted in several key resolutions aimed at overcoming these challenges.
“It [Young Assembly initiative] aims to fulfil resolutions made during the indaba by utilising transformation collaborative forums (TCF). These TCFs engage various departments and stakeholders to address identified challenges through discussions,” said Moya.
The forums are organised into various categories, including:
• Procurement, policy, legislation and socio-economic development;
• Women empowerment and gender equality;
• Occupational specific dispensation;
• Professional skills and capacity development;
• Health, safety, public protection and universal access; and
• Environmental sustainability.
“We have since realised that there is a need for a forum dedicated to young people to facilitate meaningful youth engagements
and include them in planning and decision-making processes that ensures that the South African built environment remains relevant and becomes sustainable for future generations,” she explained. The Youth Assembly is established by consolidating students with the working age youth, as a means to promote intersectionality and inclusive approach, which will ensure positive transformational change for youth in built environment.
Moya said the assembly will be a great way to champion peer support and mentorship at different stages of the young people’s lives, and creating a community.
Collaboration
“To ensure that the youth get the necessary exposure, the CBE plans to coordinate key industry stakeholders such as higher education institutions, CBE professions,, government departments and the private sector to engage the youth through networking events, workshops, seminars and
CBE Chief Transformation Officer, Thembakazi Moya
Photo:
CBE website
conferences in order to cultivate collaborations and connections,” said the CTO.
Moya envisions that, in the future, the industry will recognise this initiative as having equipped young people with a deep understanding of sustainable practices, technological advancements, and emerging design approaches.
Young people must be recognised as active agents of change in addressing identified challenges and ensuring true transformational change, one that is systematic, sustainable, and a representation of inclusion and diversity, they must not only be seen as beneficiaries of programmes,” she said.
A key component of the programme is the Built Environment National Logbook, a portal the stakeholders to access a wide range of opportunities.
It is a comprehensive and centrally located electronic database that tracks and monitors students, graduates, unemployed graduates, built environment professionals and artisans and provides accu-
rate statistical data on a continuous basis to government and the industry.
The CTO highlighted the significance of empowering youth to spearhead innovation, stimulate economic growth, and foster sustainable development within South Africa’s infrastructure and built environment between government, private sector, and industry stakeholders to create a robust support system for young professionals.
The programme is expected to contribute to government’s efforts in addressing the country’s growing unemployment figures.
According to Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey, official unemployment rate increasing by 0.6 of a percentage point from 32.9% in the first quarter of 2024 to 33.5% in the second quarter of 2024. In comparison to Quarter 1 of 2024, the expanded unemployment rate in Quarter 2 of 2024 increased
by 0.7 of a percentage point to 42.6%. The report further notes that there were about 10.3 million young people aged 15 – 24 years in Quarter 2: 2024, of which 35.2% were not in employment, education or training.
The CBE believes that strengthening professionalisation and skills development in this sector can create jobs, enhance project outcomes and contribute to economic growth.
“By prioritising continued engagements with youth in the sector and advancing professionalisation, we can ensure that infrastructure projects benefit all communities, bridging spatial and income inequalities,” said Moya.
The CBE, an entity of Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, is a regulatory body that instils good conduct within built environment professions, mobilising transformation in the built environment professions, protecting the interest of the public and advising government on built environment-related issues. ❖
Photo: CBE website
Photo: Josue Isai Ramos on Unsplash
The CBE unveiled its Youth Assembly initiative
Wear Ledikana this Heritage Month
Every year on 24 September, South Africans enjoy a public holiday to recognise and celebrate the cultural wealth of the nation. Various events are staged throughout the country to commemorate this day.
Citizens observe the day by reflecting on the diverse cultural heritage of various communities that make up the country’s population.
In this edition, Public Sector Manager
magazine features clothing items for men by Ledikana – a Johannesburg-based South African fashion brand that specialises in manufacturing contemporary African garments, hats and other fashion accessories.
The Managing Director and founder of the brand, Mapholo Ratau said: “our products are handmade and culturally inspired. Style and quality are at the forefront of our manufacturing process”.
On the company website, Ratau provides a description of each item to help customers appreciate the craftsmanship and effort involved in creating every piece.
Here are some recommended Ledikana items for men to wear to events or to enhance their style this September.
1. Shweshwe Bomber Jacket: R1799.99
“This Shweshwe Bomber Jacket is crafted with 100% cotton material and features a fully lined design, making it both comfortable and durable. The unisex design includes convenient pockets for added functionality. Elevate your style with this unique and versatile jacket”.
2. Mini Ndebele Blanket: R799.99
“This Mini Ndebele Blanket features a vibrant and intricate multicoluor design, perfect for adding a touch of traditional African culture to any space. Handcrafted with precision, this small blanket is sure to make a statement while providing warmth and comfort”.
3. Casual suits: R3 800
“Expertly crafted and impeccably tailored, our casual suits are the perfect addition to any wardrobe. Each suit is trimmed with Shweshwe detailing, adding a touch of unique style and cultural influence. Elevate your look with our versatile and comfortable suits”.
4. Gallon hats: R1 799.99
“Crafted from high-quality felt, our Gallon hats feature a unique design with a feather accent. These hats are perfect for any styl ish individual looking to make a statement while protecting their head from the ele ments. The durable construction ensures long-lasting wear, making it a practical and stylish accessory”.
“African print socks with Ndebele-inspired prints. Made from premium materials, these socks are both comfortable and durable. Perfect for everyday wear, they will make a statement with any outfit. Whether you are dressing up for a special occasion or just looking to add some culture to your wardrobe, these socks are a must-have and are a one-size-fits-all". ❖
For more information about Ledikana, visit: www.ledikana.com Email info@ledikana.com Call: 011 684 1049, 011 390 1071 or 066 138 1070. You can also visit the stores at Melrose Arch and O.R Tambo International Airport.
5. SMC Ndebele socks: R299.99
Watching your weight? Try
the beet and chickpea nude burger
Writer: More Matshediso
Photos: Napo Ramaili
As we welcome spring, many of us start the journey to shed the weight gained during the colder months. In this edition, Chef Napo Ramaili shares his Beet and Chickpea Nude Burger recipe from one of his clean eating meal plans.
Beet and Chickpea Nude Burger
Veggie Beet Patties
Ingredients:
• 350 g beets, peeled and cubed.
• 90 g uncooked quinoa.
• 100 g plain ricotta cheese.
• ½ Onion, finely chopped.
• 4 tablespoon panko crumbs.
• 1 large egg.
• 1 Garlic clove, finely chopped.
• 2 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Method
• Preheat the oven to 180 °C and line a baking sheet with a parchment paper and set aside.
• Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions and set aside.
• Place the beet onto the baking sheet, drizzle some olive oil and roast for about 30 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
• Place the roasted beet in a food processor and pulse two or three times. You need some texture for the patties, so make sure you do not mash the beet completely.
• Transfer the beet into a large bowl,
add all the other ingredients and stir to combine, if the texture is too mushy, add more panko crumbs until the desired consistency.
• Using the measuring cup, or your hand, shape the patties and place them on a lined baking sheet.
• Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes on one side, then flip over and bake for 15 more minutes.
Serve the veggie beet patties with arugula leaves, baked almond flour dusted onion rings and avocado.
Asked which wine he would recommend for this meal, Chef Ramaili said: “perhaps a freshly squeezed fruit juice or alcohol-free [wine].” ❖
About the Chef:
Napo Ramaili is a Gauteng-based customer development chef, food product developer, private chef and recipe developer. He always looks for new and better ways of interacting and driving awareness and usage of fresh local products. He also develops and provides culinary and product knowledge training for field promotion operators, demonstrators, third party sampling team and sales teams.
You can follow his work on Instagram: @eatjust_za
Chef Napo Ramaili .
Golden Gate Highlands Park: the magic of the Maluti Mountains
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north-eastern Free State is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Spend time in the majestic mountains hiking, horse riding, exploring caves and much more in their indescribable golden glow. The vulture’s restaurant (bird hide)
welcomes birders to a proper vulture feast.
The Basotho Cultural Village will transport you back in time and take you on an incredible journey, where a chief offers you Mqombothi (sorghum beer), his wives offer you the fruits of their labour and a traditional healer offers you insight into African spirituality.
History
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park, with its vast valleys stretched out as far as the eye can see, was named by farmer J.N.R. van Reenen, who observed the brilliant rays of the setting sun casting a golden glow on the west-facing sandstone cliffs, especially on the
imposing Brandwag rock.
The park was officially proclaimed on 13 September 1963. In 1983, it was enlarged to its current size, a total of 11 630 hacters, bordering Qwaqwa National Park and Lesotho.
The first inhabitants of the area were the Khoisan (Bushman or Hottentot group), with evidence of their existence lying in rock paintings and stone tools found at various sites. After the arrival of the Basotho and European hunters, farmers and Voortrekkers in the early 1800s, the Bushman moved away.
The Golden Gate Valley was used as a route for the English and Boer armies during the Anglo-Boer War (South African War) and there are several historical sites linked to this period. It falls in a summer rainfall area (September to April), with
The Basotho Cultural Village gives visitors a glimpse into the life of the first occupants of the area.
mild highveld summers and cold winters that can plummet from -9 to -15 °C, with occasional snow, transforming the park into a white wonderland.
The Park is currently the only grassland national park in South Africa. It contains over 60 species of grasses. It also has an example of one of the most spectacular forms of sandstone weathering in South Africa known as the Cathedral Cave – a cavern of some 250 metres in length and 50 metres in depth, carved over millions of years by water, wind and variations in temperatures.
The first ever fossilised Triassic dinosaur eggs were found in the park in 1973. An array of fossilised dinosaur bones, roots, ferns and footprints can also be found in the park.
Animal life
The park is teeming with animal life for game watching, and is one of the last refuges of the rare Bearded Vulture. The rare bald ibis annually breeds in the Cathedral Cave in the park.
The park has 10 antelope species, including the Eland, Red hartebeest, Black wildebeest, Blesbok, Springbok, Mountain reedbuck, Grey Rhebuck, Grey duiker, Steenbok and the threatened Oribi.
Basotho Cultural Village
The Basotho Cultural Village offers an educational programme aimed at cultural heritage awareness through tracing the footsteps of the first occupants by visiting the historical sites of Qwaqwa.
On the herbal trail, visitors can walk a wilderness trail with the
village traditional healer, who shows off the many medicinal herbs and its uses on the trail. A guide will then continue with the tour towards the caves to view San rock art.
Museum tour
At the museum, visitors can go back in time viewing depictions of the architecture and lifestyle of the Basotho people from as early as the 16th century to the present day.
There are a wide variety of hiking trails to choose from – ranging from the more challenging two-day Ribbok Hik ing Trail, to easier walks like the Boskloof trail.
Get away
Visitors to the park have several accommodation options. The luxurious Golden Gate Hotel and Chalets offers 54 rooms with state-of-the-art facilities, and 34 adjacent self-catering chalets.
The Glen Reenen Rest Camp is situated close to the Golden Gate Hotel and offers rondavels, longdavels and guest cottages.
For visitors looking for a more secluded setting, the Highlands Mountain Retreat is the perfect getaway, with wooden cabins tucked into the mountainside and unbelievable vistas of the surrounding Maluti.
Located six kilometres from Glen Reenen Rest Camp, the rustic Noord-Brabant Farmhouse gives visitors a "prehistoric" feeling and eastern Free State awe while they are relaxing in the surrounding environment. ❖
For more information, contact the park on 058 255 1000, or goldengate@sanparks.org. The 19th annual SA National Parks Week will be held from 9 – 15 September 2024 at selected national parks. During this period free access is granted to most of the 21 national parks under the management of SANParks. Visit www.sanparks.org for more information on South Africa’s national parks.
The Mushroom Rock hiking trail is an easy, short walk for all hikers.
Golden Gate Hotel and Chalets.
