PSM 2016 March Edition by Topco Media

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

MARCH 2016

State of the Nation 2016 THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy takes centre stage

A common destiny Working towards a united nation

Promoting investment MARCH 2016

One-Stop Shop to help investors

PSM

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Drought relief Government gives farmers a helping hand

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Rooting out racism, building a united nation The racism challenges facing the country offers South Africans the opportunity to craft a future of common destiny. Hard work, innovation produces better health services Leratong Hospital’s Gynaecology Outpatient Department is a good example of what is possible through hard work TB screening campaign bearing fruit Government’s TB screening campaign is making an impact in mining communities and correctional facilities Reaping the rewards of equity equivalent programmes Multinational companies have helped more than 2 000 students to find employment through funding

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Food and drink Great ideas that will make Easter all the more special

Nice-to-haves Make the most of your work-out

Car reviews Petrol, diesel or hybrid – we unpack the pros and cons of each one

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Donald Liphoko Phumla Williams Nebo Legoabe Harold Maloka Zwelinjani Momeka

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

SA’s plan to rise

above economic challenges

efore President Jacob Zuma led a delegation of Ministers

mentality and do things differently.

and business executives to Davos in January, he convened

The narrative that has come out of major economic events

a high-level meeting with CEOs of the country’s top com-

like the recent Mining Indaba tells us that South Africa

panies to ensure that South Africa spoke in one voice at the World Economic Forum.

remains an attractive investment destination. Yes, we face challenges, but our positives far outweigh our

Team South Africa’s message was clear: SA is open for business.

negatives. Government is not sitting idle and has plans in

After Davos, and days before the President delivered his State

place to set the country on the path of economic recovery.

of the Nation Address (SoNA), he convened

As the President outlined in his SoNA,

yet another meeting with business executives

much progress has been made in the

to discuss ways in which big business and

implementation of the Nine-Point Plan

government can forge a partnership with the

which is aimed at boosting economic

aim of growing the economy and creating

growth and creating jobs.

jobs.

To fur ther stimulate investment,

During his SoNA, the President reflected

government is developing a one-stop-

on these meetings with business leaders

shop initiative, called Invest South Africa,

and government Ministers and based on the

and in partnership with the private sector,

outcomes of the engagement, it is clear that

the initiative will be rolled out to strategic

frank and robust engagements have been

positions around the country to ensure that

fruitful.

it is easy to do business.

The common narrative that has emerged

President Zuma also addressed concerns

from the discussions is that it can no longer

about the performance of state-owned

be business as usual.

companies.

South Africa needs to stimulate investment, remove red tape and

Government has to streamline and sharpen the mandates

review any regulatory blockages. Why is this intervention essential?

of these companies and ensure that where there are

The President has warned us that global and domestic economic

overlaps in the mandates, there is immediate rationalisation.

pressures leave South Africa at risk of losing its investment grade

Those companies that are no longer relevant to the

status from ratings agencies.

development agenda will be phased out.

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank predict

In his reply to the debate on SoNA, President Zuma said

that the South African economy will grow by less than one

the Central Supplier Database will be compulsory for all

percent this year.

departments from 1 April 2016.

The President also reminded us that our economy has been faced with challenges since the 2008 global economic meltdown.

All suppliers doing business with government will only have to register once.

Currencies of emerging markets like South Africa and Brazil,

All tenders will be advertised in one place and will be

amongst others, have weakened and the recent commodity price

accessed free of charge. Government tenders will no longer

slump has resulted in mineral importers like China importing less.

be advertised in newspapers, which will be another cost

The reduced imports from China, our major trade partners, means

saver for government.

we are exporting less. Domestic pressures like energy constraints and labour instability have compounded on these challenges. This is why the President has called upon us, the public sector, and other sectors of the economy, to abandon the ‘business as usual’

These and other interventions signal the need for the country, particularly us as public servants, to do things that we may not have done before to ensure that we overcome the potential storms that lie ahead. It will require a team effort from all South Africans. Public Sector Manager • March 2016

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL

SoNA 2016: A call to action for public servants

o mark the start of the Parliamentary year, President Jacob Zuma recently delivered his State of the Nation Address (SoNA) in which he gave a report back on the

Acting Director-General Donald Liphoko.

progress that government has made on the implementation of the Programme of Action based on the National Develop-

cut government spending which include curtailing overseas

ment Plan.

trips as well as greatly reducing and standardising the size

During the joint sitting of both houses – the National

of delegations. Further restrictions on conferences, catering,

Assembly and the National Council of Provinces – on 11

entertainment and social functions will be instituted, and

February, the President used his speech to inform the nation

departments will no longer host budget vote dinners.

of the interventions that government was implementing to boost economic growth and create jobs. In his SoNA, President Zuma also mapped out the road ahead and gave all public servants marching orders of what we need to do to serve our people. With our economy forecasted to grow below the desired levels, this affects our ability to collect revenue, which in turn constrains our tax base.

but also extend to executive management and boards of public agencies and state-owned companies. Premiers of all nine provinces, as well as Mayors, are expected to join us as we begin eliminating wasteful expenditure within government. In his reply to the debate on the SoNA, President Zuma said a new direction was being taken to cut wastage, improve

This effectively hampers government’s aim to broaden the

the performance of the state and boost growth. These

social wage and provide education, health, social grants,

stronger measures to restore a sustainable fiscal path had

housing and free basic services - faster in a more sustainable

been endorsed by the highest level of government, he said.

trajectory.

We must heed the President’s call to focus our attention

This requires all public servants to use state resources wisely.

on correcting issues that have affected confidence in the

In 2013, the Finance Minister announced wide ranging

economy as there is little we can do to change the global

austerity measures that were aimed at instilling a culture of saving, reducing wasteful expenditure and rooting out abuse. The 2013 cost containment measures were incrementally

economic outlook. As the President said, we all have a vital contribution to turn the economy around and to cut wastage.

implemented, keeping in mind that they should not

All South Africans will go through a challenging period over

compromise the core business of government and the

the medium-term, but when the economy recovers, we will

provision of services to our people. Since then, excessive and

be proud of ourselves for having made the right decisions to

wasteful expenditure has been reduced, but there is still more

double our efforts in preparation for the economic rebound.

to be done to extract optimal financial performance.

The President’s speech was an impetus for all of us to work

I urge public servants to remember to exercise care as well as the highest ethical and professional standards when managing taxpayers’ money. In his SoNA, the President announced further measures to

These directives not only apply to government departments,

more efficiently with the available resources. Our citizens have charged us with the responsibility to look after state resources, and we owe it to them and to the economy to behave prudently.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

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CONVERSATIONS WITH THE LEADERS

President Zuma takes stock of SA President Zuma added a team effort would be required to find solutions aimed at stimulating investment. “The situation is very diffi cult and the International Monetary Fund has its own forecast of what is going to happen to individual countries, including us, that should say to us that we must double our efforts so that we can do more and grow an economy that must be inclusive. We must broaden it, we must bring in more people to participate so that we can have a bigger economic base,”

he said. outh Africa has the potential to move forward and grow its economy despite the tough economic conditions the country, like the rest of the world,

is facing. This is the view of President Jacob Zuma, who the day after delivering his State of the Nation Address (SoNA), shared more of his thoughts and plans for the country at The New Age business briefing. He noted that for growth to occur, it would

not unique to South Africa. “The economic meltdown that started in 2008 has not gone away. Other countries have taken long to recover. I think only one country that recovered, in a sense, was the United States. “I think Europe was in difficulties for a long time, now they have come back. The slowness of the recovery itself is impacting on all countries.

require much investment from local and multinational

“We are therefore in a situation when we say what can

companies to industrialise the economy and create jobs.

we do as a country to stand on our own feet and move

“We believe if we talk to each other and work together, we can go very far. That is the message we were conveying.

The President noted that the economic challenges were

forward?”

Economic interventions

“We are saying this country has the potential to move

Prior to delivering his SoNA, the President met with CEOs

forward, it is a developing country but we believe we

of top companies during an investor luncheon in Cape

have the potential to grow our economy.”

Town.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

During the meeting, Ministers and business executives discussed practical steps that should be taken by both sectors to address the immediate challenge of an adverse economic environment. Concrete proposals were also discussed on actions to be taken to grow the economy and create jobs, especially to reduce youth unemployment. There were also proposals on steps to be taken to

labour, to do so. We need to find what it is that can help us grow our economy.” During his SoNA, the President outlined a number of measures government would be implementing to save money. He said due to worsening economic conditions, he felt it was necessary to consider more austerity measures to save resources.

prevent the sovereign downgrade; develop small and medium

“I think this indicates that with the worsening the

enterprises; and to strengthen public-private partnerships

economic situation, we need to tighten the belt even fur-

in certain areas of the economy. The meeting also discussed

ther.”

the challenges caused by drought in the agricultural sector and specific proposals were made to mitigate the impact

Boosting investment

of drought, especially on poor people.

The President said that there were a number of

At the end, a joint-task team, that will be led by Finance

interventions aimed at boosting investor confidence.

Minister Pravin Gordhan and Business Unity SA’s Jabu

He pointed out that government had listened to

Mabuza, was formed to come up with recommendations

previous concerns raised by business executives about

to action the proposals.

legislative and regulatory bottlenecks that made it

The President said he was happy that the private sector and government meetings were fruitful and that both parties agreed there was a need to work together. One of the concerns the President raised with business was the issue of retrenchments, and business executives were urged to explore every avenue possible instead of first looking at reducing the head count when confronted with profit challenges. “We believe that government has shown how much it

difficult to do business. Invest SA, which includes the establishment of a one-stop shop for investment, has been established and will be used to facilitate investment in the country. It will be located at the Department of Trade and Industry. The President said meetings with business were aimed at identifying what needs to be done to bolster investment, and where in the economy people can invest.

can invest in itself and create jobs. Part of the challenge

The Department of Trade and Industry has, over the

that faces the world is jobs because once the economy

years, introduced a number of incentives to boost

is disturbed the jobs go away.

investments in the manufacturing sectors, especially tex-

“We are saying for example to the private sector, if

tiles, leather and automotive.

the economy is like this, what do you do if you have a

The incentives for the automotive sector have attracted

company? Should your first reaction be to reduce the staff

investments of over R25 billion over the past five years,

or should you find a way to maintain the jobs?”

while other multinational companies have also affirmed

He said a meeting would also be held with workers where government and leaders from organised labour would sit around the table with the aim of ensuring that when the wage negotiations season arrives, salary demands are not exorbitant. “We are going to go to the workers as well, the organised

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

South Africa as a regional manufacturing hub. The President said that the investments signalled that good progress has been made. “We indicated what kind of capital has come. We must not look at our problems as the end of everything, but as helping us to be innovative and move forward,” he added. >>

CONVERSATIONS WITH THE LEADERS

President calls for active citizenry Speaking about the role citizens can play in nation building and growing the economy, the President said citizens should be creative and innovative, and ask themselves what they can do for their country, instead of asking what government can do for them. He said government was trying to involve the people as much as possible and had even established the Department of Small Business Development to assist those who had started businesses as well as those who wanted to. The President added that government was continuously looking at the agriculture sector, for example, to look at how people in the rural areas could be better organised. Government was looking at how small scale farmers could

we have made good progress.

be assisted to access markets so that they can produce in a

“I think it is accepted by many in the world that South Africa

modern way and participate in the economy of the country.

has made progress. We have dealt with the social issues that

“So we are saying the more citizens participate, the

affect our country and we have created jobs.”

better. That is why we have focussed on education because

The President said government often made difficult

for citizens to participate, particularly if you look at our

decisions and had invested in several areas to improve the

history, you have got to empower them. You have got to

quality of the lives of all citizens.

help them. You have got to assist in any other way so they can begin to participate.

“We have been working very hard to invest. For example, infrastructure is one of the very visible areas of progress that

“Unfortunately, we are dealing with a period where the

we have made in the country. We are building huge power

system itself is very aggressive. Big businesses are not very

stations to satisfy the needs of the economy and the needs

kind to small companies and yet we need to support small

of the people.”

companies to grow so that more people can participate,” he pointed out. The National Development Plan envisages that small businesses will account for most of the jobs that will be created by 2030.

He added that government had also made education a top priority and that the department had been split into Basic Education and Higher Education, an investment that focussed on enhancing the quality of education. Education is important, as it is the equaliser in that it helped

President Zuma said with an innovative young population,

the population group that was previously excluded from the

the youth need to be supported so that they can be able to

economy to be empowered and participate, President Zuma

make their own contribution.

noted.

“As you know, there are people at times that say they are

“The numbers that are coming into education institutions

unemployable. I think we can be creative to create jobs for

are too big. In fact, we have a problem of a stampede when

them that will fit their own level of participation and capacity.”

education institutions are open. This tells you that we are

Progress made despite challenging times

making a huge progress forward.” The President added that given the age of the country’s de-

President Zuma said while a lot still needs to be done, he was

mocracy, a lot of progress has been made in promoting social

satisfied with the progress that had been made since 1994.

cohesion and that despite recent pockets of racist incidents, a

“I believe that as a country, given our age and the challenges,

lot has been done to improve the lives of all South Africans.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

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FEATURE

Writers: Chris Bathembu and Amukelani Chauke

SoNA focuses on getting down to business

resident Jacob Zuma has moved to assure South

He announced that government was developing a ‘One-

Africans, uneasy about the current unfavourable

Stop Shop/Invest SA’ initiative to signal that South Africa

economic conditions, that they should not be

is truly open for business. Government will speed up the

despondent, but rather the country should work together

implementation of this service, in partnership with the private

to turn the situation around.

sector.

In his State of the Nation Address last month, which was watched by millions of people, President Zuma highlighted

Global economic downturn

that the tough global and domestic conditions should

President Zuma reminded South Africans that the country, like

encourage “us to redouble our efforts, working together

many other developing economies, has been affected by the

as all sectors”.

global economic downturn.

“We have had fruitful meetings with business, including

“Our reality right now is that global growth still remains

the high level meeting with CEOs…We have heard the

muted. Financial markets have become volatile. Currencies

suggestions from the business community on how we can

of emerging markets have become weak and they fluctuate

turn the situation around and put the economy back on a

widely.

growth path,” said President Zuma.

“Because our economy is relatively small and open, it is

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

affected by all of these developments. Our economy is also

has enabled the country’s mines to move massive bulk

affected by domestic factors such as electricity constraints and

commodities through the ports to markets around the

industrial relations, which are sometimes unstable,” he said.

globe.

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank predict that the South African economy will grow by less than one

The South African Road Agency Ltd has built some of the best roads in Gauteng and in many parts of the country.

per cent this year. The lower economic growth outcomes and

The Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority has built dams of

outlook suggest that revenue collection will be lower than

varied capacities, making it possible for South Africans to

previously expected.

have access to safe drinking water.

The President also acknowledged that South Africa seems

“Eskom, in spite of the challenges, still manages to keep

to be at risk of losing its investment grade status from ratings

the economy going, against all odds. Our development

agencies.

finance institutions such as the Industrial Development

“If this happens, it will become more expensive for us to

Corporation, Development Bank of Southern Africa and

borrow money from abroad to finance our programmes of

others have provided finance for infrastructure, various

building a better life for all, especially the poor.”

industries and agricultural businesses without fail, even in

He urged South Africans to take advantage of the exchange rate as well as the recent changes to visa regulations, to boost

the aftermath of the global financial crisis,” he noted.

inbound tourism. SA Tourism will invest R100 million a year

Nine-Point Plan

to promote domestic tourism, encouraging South Africans to

President Zuma also reflected on developments related to

tour their country, he said.

the Nine-Point Plan he announced last year saying, among

Progress is being made

others, that progress has been made to stabilise electricity supply.

Reflecting on the progress that has been made in the past

The plan aims to boost economic growth and cre-

few years, President Zuma mentioned that state-owned

ate much-needed jobs. It consists of, among others,

freight company Transnet has built rail infrastructure which

revitalisation of the agriculture and agro-processing >>

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

value chain, promoting beneficiation, unlocking the poten-

strong motivations for trips abroad will be required

tial of small business and addressing the energy challenge.

and the sizes of delegations will be whittled down

President Zuma said government has invested R83

and standardised. There will also be further restrictions

billion in Eskom, which has enabled the utility to continue

on conferences, catering, entertainment and social

investing in Medupi and Kusile, while continuing with a

functions.

diligent maintenance programme. Additional units from Ingula power station will be connected in 2017, even though some of them will begin synchronisation this year.

vote dinners for stakeholders after the delivery of budget speeches in Parliament. The executive management and boards of public

The multiple bid windows of the Renewable

agencies and state-owned companies, as well as the

Independent Power Producer Programme have attracted

Premiers of the provinces and Mayors were expected

an investment of R194 billion.

to join national government in eliminating wasteful

“This initiative is a concrete example of how government can partner with the private sector to provide practical solutions to an immediate challenge that faces our country.”

expenditure.

Health

The President said this year government will select the

On the health front, the President noted that the life

preferred bidders for the coal independent power producer.

expectancy of South Africans, for both males and fe-

Spending wisely “A big expenditure item that we would like to persuade

males, has significantly improved and is currently 62 years across genders, which is an increase of eight and a half years since 2005.

Parliament to consider is the maintenance of two capitals,

“The HIV policy turnaround in 2009 led to a massive

Pretoria as the administrative one and Cape Town as the

rollout of HIV testing and treatment for 3.2 million

legislative capital,” noted the President.

people living with the virus. This has contributed

He pointed out that having two capitals entailed duplicate expenses on such things as accommodation and transportation, among others.

immensely to healthier and longer lives for those infected.” The next step, he said, is to revive prevention

Government has under taken to spend public

campaigns, especially amongst the youth. The Minister

funds wisely and cut wasteful expenditure without

of Health is expected to announce a major campaign

“compromising on the core business of government and

in this regard.

the provision of services”, said President Zuma. The cost-containment measures the Minister of Finance announced in 2013 had brought about a reduction in excessive and wasteful expenditure by government, but more steps would be taken to cut wastage. The President said overseas trips would be curtailed,

Government departments will no longer host budget

President Zuma also announced that the state-owned pharmaceutical company, Ketlaphela, has been established. “The company will participate in the supply of antiretroviral drugs to the Department of Health from the 2016/17 financial year,” he added.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

POOR TENDER DOCUMENTATION HAS WIDESPREAD CONSEQUENCES Poorly prepared tender documentation has become a major problem in the construction industry with tenders put out by municipalities and parastatals, in particular, increasingly dropping in standards, warns Bert van der Heever, president of the Association of SA Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS). “This has the potential of destroying emerging as well as established contractors and also leads to unnecessary wastage of time and money with escalating costs of building projects, which South Africa’s reeling economy can ill afford at present,” Van den Heever states. “Proper tender documentation helps to obtain competitive tenders that can be evaluated objectively to select a suitable contractor, prevents claims or disputes and underpins proper financial control. Poor specification writing, so-called ‘Bills of Quantities’ that cannot be priced, and dismal drawings and other supporting documents are increasingly the norm in tender packages drawn up by local governments and parastatals which, as repeatedly stated in the media, appear to have inexperienced and unskilled staff in key positions. There have also been cases reported where unqualified scammers have been caught posing as professional Quantity Surveyors (QS). To exacerbate matters, there have also been many reported cases of vested interests and corruption in the awarding of municipal tenders.”

Bert van den Heever, president of ASAQS: “Local governments without a full-time QS on their staff should employ a qualified QS on a consulting basis to assist in tender documentation,” he has urged.

Van den Heever says all tenders – whether from the public or private sector – should provide a clear description and quantified scope of the work and terms and conditions under which such work should be undertaken. “Tenderers often have to pay substantial amounts of money to obtain tender documents – only to discover that they are worthless. Tenders based on such documents cannot be properly adjudicated, nor can any form of cost control be implemented when such projects are started.” Van den Heever urges local government and other organisations without a full-time QS on their staff, to employ a qualified QS on a consulting basis to assist in tender documentation and the drawing up of Bills of Quantities for construction projects. “But here also care should be taken to ensure that the QS employed is an accredited ASAQS member, selected for his or her skills and experience – and not merely on the cost of the consulting services.” Van den Heever says it is in national interest to ensure that South Africa does not fall deeper into this mire and embarks on a policy of not only stamping out corruption in the awarding of tenders but also appointing qualified and skilled personnel to compile tender documents.

Address: G6, Building 27, Thornhill Office Park, Bekker Rd, Midrand, 1686, South Africa ASAQS has warned that poor tender documentation has the potential of destroying emerging contractors.

Phone:+27 11 315 4140

WATER SAVING TIPS In and around the house / business Kettles should not be filled to the brim but with just enough water for your needs. This will reduce your electricity bill too. Don't over-fill containers like cooking pots, as this may result in using more energy to heat Turn the tap oﬀ between washing your face, brushing your teeth or shaving. Taking a five-minute shower a day, instead of a bath. The shower will use a third of the water used bathing in a bath tub, saving up to 400 litres a week. Showering can use up to 20 litres of water per minute. If you prefer to bath, don't fill up the bath tub. Taking a bath can use between 80 and 150 litres of water per bath. Use low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilet mechanisms and water-eﬃcient washing machines.

the water. Reducing the toilet flush volume alone can save 20% of total water consumption. This can be done by putting a 2-litre cold drink bottle, filled with water and a little sand to add weight, into the cistern. Fix a leaking toilet otherwise it can waste up to 100 000 litres of water in one year. Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues, insects and other waste in the trash rather than the toilet. Every time you flush the toilet, 12 litres of water is used. Use "grey water" - used water from baths, washing machines and other safe sources to flush your toilet. Do not over-fill or excessively backwash your swimming pool. Use a bucket rather than a hose to wash your car. If you have to use a hose, use a sprayer that can be turned off in-between spraying the

car. Using a garden hose could use as much as

should be careful not to use the river or river bank

30 litres of water per minute.

as a toilet.

Do not pour paint and chemicals down the drain. Farmers must ensure that they keep toxic insecticides away from water sources and streams. Factories should take care of how they discharge mercury and other heavy metals into waste water. People living in rural areas

In the garden

the nutrients released from the shell. Focus on indigenous and non-water-consumptive alien plants (but not invasive alien plants). Group plants according to their water needs and to mulch around them. Water gardens less frequently, but water well. Using a garden hose could use as much as 30 litres of water per minute. Remove invasive alien plants on your property.

Always water your plants during the early morning hours or in the evening, when temperatures are

Roof water can also be profitably stored in tanks,

cooler. Between 10:00 and 15:00 one can lose

for watering gardens.

up to 90% of water to evaporation. Use "grey water" - used water from baths, washEvery time you boil an egg, save the cooled

ing machines and other safe sources - to water

water for your houseplants. They'll benefit from

your garden.

ADVERTORIAL

HAND-IN-HAND:

Why public-private partnerships are the key to fixing SA’s education system By The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants

When it comes to a country’s success, education is often cited as the silver bullet. Countries with excellent education systems enjoy a working democracy and lower crime rates, have more responsible citizens and attract better business and industry. In this sense, South Africa is up against a big challenge. Despite having one of the most democratically advanced constitutions in Africa, the quality of the country’s education system leaves much to be desired. Last year’s World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Competitiveness report illustrates this perfectly. It ranked our maths and science education almost dead last (138th) out of 140 countries. This is devastating. It means we are among the worst in the world, despite having vastly superior resources compared to poorer countries on the list. We can blame much of this on the glaring inequalities still apparent in the education system 22 years into our democracy. This is why the 2016 State of the Nation Address reiterated the position of ‘quality school education’ at the apex of the National Development Plan (NDP).

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS ARE CRUCIAL TO ADDRESSING SA’S EDUCATION CHALLENGES It would be easy to play the national education blame game and say that government should find ways to solve the problem. But the truth is that, because quality education is the country’s most powerful instrument for reducing poverty and improving the economy, it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to put the economy back on a growth path by focusing on improving our education outcomes. The US Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSI) defines public-private partnership as “solving development problems through a co-ordinated and concerted effort between government and non-government actors, including companies and civil society.” By creating synergies that leverage the talents, expertise and powers of all stakeholders involved, partnerships create a catalytic force capable of resolving infrastructure gaps. In education these gaps include among others: • The quality of the education system • The shortage of skilled educators • School Government Bodies’ (SGBs) inability to manage and govern their schools and • A lack of leadership It is a huge undertaking. Yet it can be done. An example of a public-private partnership achieving great success in the education area is the Thuthuka programme of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants. 14 YEARS OF SUCCESSFUL EDUCATION MOMENTUM Built on partnerships between government, commerce and industry, academia and individuals, the Thuthuka model illustrates the power of these synergies. At school-level, the Thuthuka Education Upliftment Fund (TEUF) provides learners and teachers with mathematics and responsible leadership programmes. When it started in 2002, it operated in only one province. Today, public-private partnerships make it possible for the TEUF to run 47 programmes across the country – with an impact range of over 1 million learners since inception. It does this through: • Camps and supplementary classes in mathematics, accounting, English, responsible leadership and problem-solving. • Career drives and awareness programmes hosted

together with engineering and actuarial professional bodies. • P articipation in annual Accounting and Maths Olympiads and business games which challenge learners to apply their knowledge; think outside the box; and use intuition, creativity and initiative. • G auteng SGB capacitation, where chartered accountants [CAs(SA)] help SGBs with budgeting, financial management and reporting skills so they can manage their schools’ finances better. • T he All Stars: Every Step Counts Life Orientation book and Teachers’ Lesson Plan. Designed to support the Grade 9 curriculum, this book teaches values and the importance of making considered choices. SAICA’s Thuthuka Bursary Fund (TBF) helps talented African and coloured learners to pursue a career in CA(SA) by providing them with funding for their studies at university. To date, the fund has supported over 3 000 students with excellent results: • 2 51 have qualified as CAs(SA) – a process that takes a minimum of seven years • 6 18 have entered the CA(SA) training programme • M ore than 600 have completed their honours degree and • 800 have completed their undergraduate BCom degree Thuthuka also works closely with tertiary institutions to address educational inequalities by building additional capacity at all of South Africa’s historically disadvantaged institutions. THE CHALLENGE IS TOO BIG: NO ONE ACTOR CAN UNDERTAKE IT ON THEIR OWN To improve education, we need programmes to take us beyond the blame game and pool together a coalition of activists who collectively acknowledge the role they have to play in fixing the system. Success stories such as Thuthuka create a compelling argument for how public-private partnerships can help government do just that.

CONTACT DETAILS: Local: 08610 SAICA (72422)

International: 27 11 621 6600

Email: saica@saica.co.za

Writer: Amukelani Chauke

FEATURE

Ministers give SoNA

the thumbs up P resident Jacob Zuma’s frank assessment of the

government to implement the appropriate plans of action to

country’s economy, as well as the interventions he

deal with economic challenges.

outlined in the State of the Nation Address (SoNA),

“I think the President painted the picture of the headwinds

signals decisive leadership, says Finance Minister Pravin

that we are going to face. He also said we have to build on the things we can fix and can influence.

Gordhan. Speaking to PSM shortly after the Presi-

“I think it was a fairly substantial programme

dent delivered the SoNA in the National As-

of cutting of frills and wasteful expenditure that

sembly, the Minister was confident that the

was announced.”

economic interventions announced by the

The Minister noted that the President’s SoNA

President, coupled with the Budget speech,

also reflected on developments with regard to

would be enough to shield the country

the Nine-Point Plan. “I think there was progress in relation to the

from losing its investment grade status. Minister Gordhan pointed out that the

Nine-Point Plan; progress in some of the value-

interventions outlined in the SoNA were

added activities; progress in the mineral benefi-

just the start.

ciation … and progress in the agriculture and the processing value chains.

“It is a beginning of a process, and when you combine what the President had to

“This all has to be built on and we have to take

say and what is in the Budget ... we should

our people along with us and make sure that

be able to keep ourselves on the right side

we prioritise things that will create jobs; things

of the grading ratings agencies,” he added.

that will support empowerment because em-

The Minister pointed out there was a need

powerment and bringing about a more inclusive

for all sectors of the economy to speak with

economy is the most critical part of the picture

one voice and market the country to attract

as well,” explained Minister Davies. He added that the President had covered all the

investment. “The important signal is that ... before [the

“basics” and it was now time for implementation.

World Economic Forum in] Davos and after

Sharing her thoughts on the SoNA, Small

Davos, we have been making every effort

Business Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu

to partner with the business sector; to get

said government had, for years, worked hard to

an understanding with trade unions as well,

achieve radical economic transformation in a bid

and basically send a message to all of South

to empower the previously disadvantaged black

Africa that we are in this together.

majority.

‘It is not just government’s job to save

She said government was hopeful that recent

the ratings. If we want to improve the

meetings with big business would bear some

investment climate, all of us need to talk

fruit and that the private sector would prioritise

positively about South Africa and work as

empowerment.

one team. I think the President gave important leadership today,” he said.

It was important for it to support the majority of the population at an economic level, the Minister noted.

Giving his take on the SoNA, Trade and Industry Minister

She also called on the private sector to work with gov-

Rob Davies said that the President’s assessment of the

ernment towards a common goal of transforming the

turbulent times ahead was accurate and that it helped

economy.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

YOU SEE A THUTHUKA BENEFICIARY

WE SEE HOW

Your Goodwill CAN BOOST YOUR B-BBEE SCORECARD DURING TAX KHANYA NDZULULEKA PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANT AT DELOITTE, TWO-TIME CUM LAUDE GRADUATE

With 251 qualified Chartered Accountants and over 1200 more prospective CAs(SA) in the pipeline, the Thuthuka Bursary Fund is creating a whole new generation of business leaders. But we can’t do it alone… we need you to invest in them Your business is part of the wider community. While you do your part to uplift those who deserve it most, only CA(SA) has the keen sense of expertise to see how your contribution towards Skills Development can improve your B-BBEE scorecard. responsible leadership.

Your investment in Thuthuka is also tax deductible. Contact Thuthuka Business Development Manager Didi Monnakgotla on 011 621 6653 or didim@saica.co.za for more. THUTHU K A inspiring success

Landscape.indd 1

2016/02/22 2:26 PM

STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS 2016

State of the

Nation Address 2016 President Jacob Zuma delivered the State of the Nation Address (SoNA) to a joint sitting of Parliament on 11 February 2016 in what was a colourful affair. During his speech, the President talked about governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievements over the past year and looked to the future by presenting a programme for the coming year. PSM captured all the highlights of the SoNA, including all the glitz of the red carpet.

Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Mzwandile Masina (left) and his partner seen here with Sports and Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula and his wife.

President Jacob Zuma and Speaker of Parliament Baleka Mbete making their way into Parliament with first lady Bongiwe NgemaZuma and Speaker of the National Council of Provinces Thandi Modise.

President Zuma had high tea with some of his special guests before the SoNA. Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Lechesa Tshenoli arrive at Parliament.

Small Business Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu and her daughter on the red carpet.

President Zuma meets guests outside Parliament.

The area outside Parliament was abuzz with activity as South Africans waited for the President to deliver the SoNA. Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Writer: Albert Pule

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

IDC to help stimulate

economic growth S

ince 1994, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has invested R152 billion in the South African economy and now, when the

country’s economy needs the boost the most, the IDC is once more stepping up to the plate. With the economy predicted to grow by less than one per cent this year, the IDC will do its bit to help turn things around by funding companies to stimulate economic growth and facilitate job creation. Chief Executive Officer of the IDC Geoffrey Qhena says although times are tough, all is not lost. “We are fully aware of the state of the economy and we will continue to provide funding to grow the economy.” The IDC is a development finance institution of the South African government, aimed at promoting economic growth and industrial development. Established in 1940, it has over the past seven decades provided finance for industrial development projects, played a supporting role in promoting partnerships across industries within and outside South Africa’s borders, and promoted regional economic growth. Qhena says that given the current economic climate, the IDC will prioritise companies that are struggling, to help them recover. “We will also provide funding to companies that are facing difficulties because of economic conditions, to ensure that the capacity and jobs are maintained.”

Creating, sustaining jobs Apart from the billions the IDC has invested in the economy since 1994, it has also helped create 376 000 new jobs and save 50 800 jobs through the businesses it funded and its indirect impact is much higher. Chief Executive Officer of the IDC Geoffrey Qhena.

Qhena says the institution supports a number of sectors. “We support agro-processing and agriculture, industrial infrastructure, basic and specialty chemicals, chemical products and pharmaceutical, clothing and textiles. “We also support basic metals and mining, machinery and equipment, automotive and transport, light manufacturing and tourism and heavy manufacturing. These are drivers of job creation.”

dum of understanding with Beijing Automotive International Corporation (BAIC) to build a car manufacturing plant in South Africa. The agreement was one of 26 signed during a state visit to South Africa by Chinese President Xi Jinping in December 2015, ahead of the Forum for China-Africa Co-operation summit. If the investment goes ahead, the plant will produce 100 000 vehicles a year and create 10 000 direct and indirect jobs.

Recently, the IDC saved a textile company in the Eastern

It is expected to begin production by the first quarter of 2018.

Cape by funding it in partnership with the Department

The automotive sector contributes between six per cent

of Trade and Industry. Da Gama Textiles was facing stiff competition from cheap imports that left it struggling to compete. The IDC injected R20 million into the company and saved over 600 jobs.

and seven per cent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product and with partnerships such as the one between the IDC and BAIC it could increase. Late last year, the Department of Trade and Industry launched the Black Industrialists Development Programme,

It has, among other projects, funded the Gautrain, the

aimed at creating more than 100 black industrialists within

Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, Reatile Gaz, Mozal

three years. The IDC has channelled R23 billion to the pro-

Aluminum Smelter in Mozambique, Sasol, Pamodzi In-

gramme.

vestment Holdings, Ouma Rusks and Exxaro Resources. Ouma Rusks was one of the first projects funded by

Support for women and youth

the IDC in 1941 and it has grown into a household brand

Qhena says the IDC also focuses on assisting previously disad-

loved by many South Africans.

vantaged groups, particularly women and youth, to establish

More recently, the IDC signed a R12 billion memoran-

their own businesses.

Divisional Executive: Corporate Affairs of the IDC Zama Luthuli (right) hands over a cheque to the CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Sibongile Mkhabela.

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

“Our funding is aimed at creating industrial capacity and

to its clients and also, in some instances, co-invest with

in doing so, we create jobs through the businesses that

some of these institutions in larger projects,” he explains.

we support.

The IDC has dramatically increased the level of its indus-

“Our focus on women and youth is to promote

trial funding over the past five years to R61billion and this

entrepreneurship among these groups. By actively

will be increased to R100 billion over the coming five years.

funding women- and youth-owned enterprises, we allow

This amount includes R23 billion set aside to support and

their increased participation in the economy.”

facilitate the growth of black industrialists in the productive sectors, and R4.5 billion each for women and youth

Assisting farmers

empowered businesses.

The IDC is also lending a helping hand to farmers

According to Qhena, the IDC will continue to develop

who have been severely affected by the drought ravaging the country. It has made available soft loans as emergency funding towards working

projects for the

The IDC has dramatically increased the level of its industrial funding over the past five years to R61billion and would be increased to R100 billion over the coming five years.

South Africa and the Southern African Development Community. “On a long-term basis, we will con-

capital, infrastructure and a small portion for carry-over debt for the commercial

tinue to identify and develop projects to debottleneck

sector.

value chains and increase the country and the region’s

A soft loan is a loan with a below-market rate of interest.

competitiveness,” he adds.

The IDC will consider financial assistance to its existing clients that apply for drought relief support while for nonIDC clients, lending will not be made available directly to the end beneficiary but rather through National Credit Act

About Geoffrey Qhena:

compliant intermediaries like Land Bank and AgriBusiness.

Qhena is a chartered accountant. He completed a

R32 million has already been approved.

Bachelor of Accounting Science (B Compt) and B

Partnering with development finance institutions

Compt Honours from the University of South Africa. He also holds a Certificate in Advanced Tax from the University of South Africa and has completed the

Qhena says the IDC could not have supported so many

Senior Executive Programme jointly offered by

businesses had it not received assistance from other de-

Harvard University and the University of the

velopment finance institutions.

Witwatersrand’s Business School.

“The IDC has very strong relationships with other finan-

He has been a lecturer in accounting and

cial institutions. This includes both international as well

auditing at Vista University Soweto Campus (now

as domestic development finance institutions and com-

known as University of Johannesburg). Thereafter, he

mercial funders.

joined the Transnet Group as a Senior Manager in the

“Examples of institutions with which IDC has partnered

restructuring department. He then joined the IDC,

in the past include the African Development Bank, German

occupying different roles until he was appointed Chief

Development Bank KfW, Development Bank of Southern

Financial Officer late 2003, and then Chief Executive

Africa and Land Bank.

Officer in 2005.

“IDC borrows from these institutions in order to lend

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

8 - 9 J

J U N E A

2 0 1 6

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Health

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WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

*Writer: Jayson Ledwaba

Dr Linda Godfrey makes

the most of waste

hile not many people may see any appeal in waste

“My responsibilities now involve strengthening invest-

management, Dr Linda Godfrey has made a career

ment and activity in waste research, development and in-

out of it.

novation across South African public research institutions,

The CSIR principal scientist specialising in integrated waste

to support the maximisation of social, environmental and

management and Associate Professor in waste management

economic benefits associated with waste diversion from

at North-West University, believes that waste research in South

landfill.”

Africa is an under-researched discipline. “It is like a blank slate. There are so many opportunities and so many questions that need answers,” explains Dr Godfrey. As a principal scientist her responsibilities involve driving research projects on waste management.

Managing waste responsibly She explains that integrated waste management is an approach to managing waste that prioritises activities to ensure that waste is responsibly managed. This approach

“This includes scoping important research questions, prepar-

also ensures that the least amount of waste is sent for final

ing proposals to address these research questions, pitching the

disposal, reducing the potential environmental and social

research to key funders, negotiating research projects, manag-

impacts associated with waste disposal.

ing the research project (if successful) as well as undertaking

“It involves reducing the generation of waste at source

aspects of the actual research together with the project team.”

through mechanisms such as cleaner production, then re-

Dr Godfrey also heads the Waste RDI Roadmap Implemen-

using waste, diverting waste to recycling activities where

tation Unit, an initiative of the Department of Science and

resources can be utilised to make new products, recovering

Technology (DST).

energy from waste, and finally disposal to landfill,” she adds.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

A passion for science Reflecting on her journey into the world of science, Dr Godfrey gives credit to her high school science teacher in King Williams Town in the Eastern Cape who instilled her passion for science. Her career at the CSIR started when she was awarded a bursary to complete her Master’s Degree in Geohydrology. After doing so Dr Godfrey worked at the CSIR as a geohydrologist. Twenty-one years later she is still at the CSIR and says she loves the opportunities it provides to scientists and engineers to undertake research. During that time she has also worked as a scientist and research manager. A lot of the waste-related research being conducted at the CSIR is a first for South Africa and Dr Godfrey lists three projects in particular as highlights of her career so far.

Pretoria campus has provided staff with a drop-off facility for their recyclables,” she says. In an effort to improve the management of waste nationwide,

The first was her role in the development of the South

Dr Godfrey believes that “every single person has an obligation to

African Waste and Information System (SAWIS). She was

be responsible for the waste that they produce and should think

seconded to the Department of Environmental Affairs. A

twice about what they buy and what they throw away”.

between 2004 and 2006 on a Danish International Devel-

“We cannot continue to dispose waste to landfill as it just doesn’t

opment Agency-funded project to develop SAWIS as part

make sense. We are landfilling valuable resources. We use a lot of

of the National Waste Management Strategy Implementa-

natural resources and energy in the manufacturing of products,

tion Project. The SAWIS has since been rolled out by the

so why do we want to take something that has been through this

department.

whole process and just throw it away as waste to landfill?” she asks.

The second project was developing the National Waste Research Development and Innovation Roadmap for the

She points out that there is still valuable fibre, polymer, metals and other resources in the waste we dispose of to landfill.

DST between 2012 and 2014. The Roadmap is a 10-year

According to a 2009 briefing note by Dr Godfrey and her col-

strategic plan that guides South Africa’s direction and in-

league Dr Suzan Oelofse on the state of domestic waste man-

vestment in waste research, development and innovation.

agement in South Africa, the country disposes 90 per cent of

The third project was a European Union-African Union

all waste generated to landfill. Yet, when it comes to municipal

collaborative project resulting in the drafting of a Joint

solid waste, an estimated 65 per cent of the waste generated is

European and African Research and Innovation Agenda on

considered recyclable.

waste management, which Dr Godfrey co-authored with

The General Household Survey of 2007 revealed that 39 per cent

colleagues from the European Commission. “These projects

of households, or 50 per cent of the South African population,

have provided incredible opportunities for professional

are not receiving a regular municipal waste collection service,

growth,” she says.

with municipal waste collection having improved by 2.7 per cent

“If you are really passionate about what you do, it is not a

between 1996 and 2001.

burden to put in the hard work and the long hours needed

Considerable social, economic and environmental investments

to develop your career as a scientist,” she says of her suc-

have been made in making products and it is important to re-

cess so far.

cover this ‘value’, she points out. “This also allows us to initiate opportunities for creating new

A common responsibility

jobs and businesses. There is a lot more that we should be do-

Dr Godfrey practices what she preaches and applies waste

ing to collect and reprocess these recyclable materials,” says Dr

management principles outside the office as well.

Godfrey.

“I cannot bring myself to throw something in the dustbin that is recyclable. I think it’s a wonderful idea that the CSIR’s

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

*Jayson Ledwaba works for the CSIR.

ADVERTORIAL

SAVING WATER IS EVERYBODY’S RESPONSIBILITY In South Africa, water is currently high on the public agenda.

local communities. SAB is strengthening its social investment water

Commentators have made serious predictions of imminent systems

Network (SWPN), a public-private sector partnership, which brings

projects, particularly to contribute towards community water security. Since 2011, SAB has participated in the Strategic Water Partners

collapse and water shortages. According to the National Water Resource Strategy, South Africa will face a supply-demand deficit of

parties together to discuss national water issues. The Private Sector co-chair is Andre Fourie, senior manager for environmental value at

-17% by 2030 under current efficiency levels.

SABMiller.

Businesses need to be prepared for this challenging situation.

The aim of the partnership is to combine efforts to close the water gap facing the country by 2030. The network is organised into

As a leading corporate citizen, South African Breweries (SAB) is continuously developing strategies for identifying water risks and has spent millions in an effort to cut back on how much water is used in

three working groups responsible for water use efficiency; leakage reduction and supply chain; and agriculture and effluent partnerships,

the brewing process.

with secretariat support from the Nepad Business Foundation. Within

Water use is measured in terms of how much water is used to make

and recommending strategies to overcome challenges to replicate

these three groups, the SWPN is identifying projects, best practices

a litre of beer (or in production-speak, a hectolitre (hl) is 100 litres of beer). Even a small saving on the production of a litre of beer can amount to massive savings when you consider that SAB produces

projects and improve widespread adoption of water solutions. Along with external stakeholders, the network will explore practical examples of public-private strategies that have been implemented

27-million hl, or 2.7-billion litres of beer annually.

in India, Mexico and Jordan to transform their water sectors. These

Since 2008, when SAB embarked on its drive to radically cut water

the impact of climate change and meet the needs of sustainable

strategies aim to use water resources more efficiently, adapt to

use, the amount of water used to produce a litre of beer has dropped from 4.5L of water to an average of 3.1L for F16. “SAB aims to

economic growth and social development. “This year SAB will be involved in one of the new working groups,

reduce our water use to 2.89L per litre of beer by 2020 within our

namely skills development and transformation in the water sector,”

manufacturing process and implement programmes to mitigate shared risks for our key crops such as hops and barley,” said David

said Zama Siqalaba, SWPN Programme Manager. “It is important for

Greyling, SAB Sustainable Development Manager.

an organisation to have their own interests but also to be concerned

SAB’s targeted approach towards building strong South African

private sector partners and moving in the same direction.”

as a company about water stewardship, contributing with other

communities is outlined in its global sustainable development framework, Prosper, which has five shared imperatives: a sociable world, a resilient world, a clean world, a thriving world and a productive world. Each imperative highlights tangible targets to be

Greyling says that SAB believes it is only through collective action and effective partnerships that the future of this critical resource would be safeguarded. “Our water strategy is a comprehensive and

achieved by the company over the next five years.

risk-based approach guided by the 5 ‘R’s’ - pRotect, Reduce, Reuse,

Under the resilient world sustainable development imperative, SAB

strategic thrusts: in the brewery, in the supply chain, in communities

Recycle and Redistribute. Our water game plan focuses on four

endeavours to secure shared water resources for the business and

and water governance.”

Contact details: Physical Address: The South African Breweries Central Office, 65 Park Lane, Sandton, Johannesburg. Postal address: PO Box 782178, Sandton, 2146 Tel: (011) 881 8111 | Website: www.sab.co.za

A Resilient World - making more beer using less water Under SABâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sustainable development imperative, we strive to secure shared water resources in a water scarce society. We continue to support and participate in the Strategic Water Partnership, as it is only through collective action and effective partnerships that we believe we can protect this critical resource. Our water game plan focuses on four strategic thrusts: in the brewery, in the supply chain, in communities and water governance. This year, SAB expects to reduce its water use by 34 million hectolitres â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a saving that is equivalent to 70 litres for every person in the country. For over 120 years, we have been part of the fabric of the South African society. It is the SA in SAB that makes us who we are.

The South African Breweries

TRAILBLAZER

*Writer: Kabelo Ledwaba

Gugu Mnguni soars to new heights

ost of the thousands of people who fly into the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Supported by the ground engineering crew, they per-

airports daily give little thought to the staff behind the

form flight tests with a specially configured aircraft to

scenes that make their journey possible nor do they get

carry out calibration.

to meet them.

This team is tasked with testing and verifying the pre-

If they did, they would come across Gugu Mnguni, a flight inspec-

cision and functionality of navigational instruments

tor who is one of the people responsible for one of the most critical

to ensure that such are safe and accurate for use by

aviation safety tasks in the country.

commercial, military and private aircraft. This is known

The 33-year-old, who works for the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), an agency of the Department of Transport, is the first black person in the country to hold the position.

as flight calibration. Their work allows aircraft to locate airports destined for landing and enables the pilot to land the aircraft

He is one of only three practising flight inspectors responsible for

at precise points on runways, even under the most

the calibration of air navigation systems and landing instruments at

atrocious weather conditions. Basically, without these

airports across South Africa and neighbouring states.

instruments pilots would find it difficult to locate their

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

destinations and land at accurate points on runways. Not only is Mnguni one of the three flight inspectors in the country, but he is also one of a mere handful found on the continent. This, and the fact that he is the first black person in South Africa to occupy such a position, seems to be no big deal for the introverted Mnguni. “I honestly do not understand what this whole hype around me is about. To me it is just a job that I happen to love. Being the first black person in the country to do this

was responsible for the repair and calibration of avionics instruments. Two years later he moved on to become a senior technician at Tellumat, which also provides specialist technology products and solutions to clients in the telecommunications, defence, transport and energy industries. Mnguni’s main role was to install, calibrate and repair equipment. At both companies Mnguni was just one of the few black individuals appointed to specialist roles.

job may be a big deal in some quarters, but not for me.

“The situation gradually changed with time and I am

It is not like I invented calibration,” he says, nonchalantly.

sure by now there are more than a handful of black people

As much as he tries to downplay his pioneering success,

in key specialist positions in those companies, and pos-

Mnguni still appreciates the fact that it opens doors for

sibly across the aviation industry. Regardless, I still believe

other young people, particularly those who come from

more can be done to transform the aviation industry.”

less privileged communities. “If my role inspires some young person, especially from a disadvantaged background, to join the aviation industry

In 2012, Mnguni joined the SACAA as a trainee flight inspector. After two years of intensive training he qualified as a flight inspector.

and become a specialist in their area of choice, then I will

“Compared to the previous companies, at the SACAA

be happy and know that I have fulfilled one of my goals.”

it was a different ball game altogether. I was challenged

Mnguni is familiar with the disadvantages of growing up

more than I had ever been before, as I had to learn all the

in a less aﬄuent area. He and his two siblings were raised

regulations pertaining to calibration and flight inspection.

by a single mom in Mhluzi, a township near Middelburg in Mpumalanga.

“My supervisors and team members pushed me hard and encouraged me all the way. I am grateful that they

“I don’t know how my mother managed but she ensured

did, as it was vital for me to absorb knowledge, as it is

that we got everything that we needed for our schooling.

impractical to provide adequate oversight over operators

We had to forego other simple luxuries for the sake of get-

if you have no idea of what they are supposed to do. My

ting an education. She always emphasised the importance

practical experience gained from working with naviga-

of education, not only to us but also to our cousins who

tional and landing instruments came in handy.”

lived with us. She never complained, but I can imagine

Mnguni says that besides having to be a technically

that it must have been hard for her with the salary of an

minded person, the ability to identify and solve problems

administrator at a furniture shop,” he recalls.

is crucial in aviation.

With the financial assistance of his mother and extended

“In my role and in aviation in general, there is no room

family members, Mnguni registered for a National Diploma

for errors, as we are dealing with people’s lives. Tiny mis-

in Electrical Engineering – Telecommunication at Wits

takes, whether deliberate or not, can lead to accidents.”

Technikon, now known as the University of Johannesburg.

His advice to young people who are keen on becoming

To complete his three-year diploma, Mnguni secured an

specialist aviators is: “Study maths and science. Get good

apprenticeship with the Thales Group, a global electronic

marks. Remain inquisitive. Be prepared to work hard, as

systems company that provides services to clients in in-

professionalism in this industry is non-negotiable; and

dustries such as defence, aerospace, airlines, information

you will eventually reap the rewards.”

technology and transportation. After completing his apprenticeship, he was offered a permanent position as an avionics technician; meaning he

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

* Kabelo Ledwaba is Senior Manager: Corporate Communications and Marketing at the SACAA.

SA wins International Schools Moot Court competition

Court Competition, which was held in October 2015.

The Department of Basic Education has congratulated

The department congratulated Claire Rankin and Clara-

Team South Africa for winning the 2016 International

Marie Macheke from Springfield Convent in the Western

Schools Moot Court Competition at The Hague in the

Cape for taking the top spot at the International Schools

Netherlands recently.

Moot Court Competition, after toppling Team USA.

This year the International Moot Court Competition

The department acknowledged the provincial coor-

tackled the topical issue of crimes against humanity dur-

dinators and national officials of the department for the

ing a time of war. Twelve countries - Argentina, Bulgaria,

dedication and hard work in supporting the road to suc-

Germany, Mongolia, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Rus-

cess for the learners.

sia, St Martens, USA, Venezuela and South Africa - participated in the competition. Contestants were given the opportunity to argue both

At national level, the competition is held at the Constitutional Court and is presided over by Constitutional judges.

as defender and complainant using international crimi-

The Schools Moot Court Competition is implemented

nal law and treaties that are relevant to the International

in partnership with the Department of Justice and

Criminal Court.

Constitutional Development and the University of

The South African team was made up of learners Nthabiseng Mbatha, Simon Motsheweni, Paseka Selin-

Pretoria, led by Prof Haynes. It is funded by the Foundation for Human Rights.

yane, Claire Rankin, Clara-Marie Macheke, Katelyn Chettle

The company petition is supported by independent

and Shandre Smith representing schools ranging from

law firms, non-governmental organisations and the Uni-

rural to former model C schools.

versity of Venda.

The South African team comprised learners who had made it to the finals of the South African Schools Moot

Judge Howard Morrison and Judge Raul Pangalangan presided over the competition this year. Source: SAnews.gov.za

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

ADVERTORIAL

Jeffares & Green Board Standing: Jan Norris, Seetella Makhetha, Phaks Ngqumshe, Martha Makhetha | Seated: Harold Tiganis, Nomsa Mkaza, Paul Olivier (Managing Director).

JEFFARES & GREEN CHANGES NAME, CELEBRATES “AFRIKA” Century old engineering and environmental consulting company, Jeffares & Green, announced that it will be changing its name and renewing its brand to better reflect its goals and strategies.

The long-established engineering and

To maintain momentum for continuous

options were presented. After much hard

environmental consulting company,

development, the shareholders made

work, research and an inclusive staff

Jeffares & Green, has announced that it

a bold decision at the end of 2015 to

voting process, JG Afrika was chosen.”

will be changing its name and renewing

rename and rebrand the company in

its brand to better reflect goals and

order to better align the name and the

This was a carefully selected name,

strategies.

brand with its areas of operation - the

designed to represent the company’s

African continent. Management also

identity to the world, while maintaining

JLS Jeffares founded a consultancy in

wished to align the brand with it’s the

its African roots. “The inclusion

1922, and was joined by Hal Green in

firm’s strategy to remain a proudly

of ‘JG’ symbolises the company’s

1927 after which the name Jeffares &

South African owned company and its

acknowledgement of and appreciation

Green (J&G) became synonymous with

commitment to inclusive transformation.

for its history, while ‘Afrika’ denotes its

professional engineering that never compromised on quality.

independence, its love for the continent, According to J&G’s Marketing and

and is in alignment with the African way

Communications Manager, Charmagne

of spelling ‘Africa’ as most obviously

Throughout its existence, J&G has

Denny; “The brand development process

represented in our National Anthem

progressed and evolved, keeping

started with the appointment of brand

Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika.” says Denny.

pace with fluctuations in demand, the

specialists. A strategic session was held

industry and customer requirements.

and, after some collaboration, naming

“We sincerely enjoyed the process of evaluating naming options, and involving our valued staff – after all, our success is built on their strengths.” Jeffares & Green (soon to be known as JG Afrika) was founded in 1922 and is a proudly South African engineering and environmental consulting firm. It draws from its rich history, in-depth experience and strong African roots to ensure that all interactions reflect its ethos of sustainability, quality and integrity. The company provides consulting services in all fields of civil and structural engineering, as well as environmental services, throughout Africa. J&G staff are all pulling together to make the company rebrand a success

The new corporate identity, which will be launched in April 2016, draws on designs of the past and the company’s ethos of dedication, community benefit and environmental protection, while being refreshed for the 21st Century.

The Group also features specialist companies operating in the fields of geotechnical, environmental and geosciences, pavement technology, traffic and

“The name ‘Jeffares and Green’ has served us well for nearly one hundred years, and

transportation, materials testing,

we will certainly continue to pay homage to our distinct history. However, the time has

and institutional support.

come to look to the future and to align our corporate identity with our diverse, modern and highly-skilled workforce,” says Paul Olivier, J&G’s Managing Director. “We sincerely enjoyed the process of evaluating naming options, and involving our valued staff – after all, our success is built on their strengths.” He concludes: “While this is an exhilarating time for J&G, we assure the industry that we remain the same professional, knowledgeable and independent organisation; our name and brand changing does not alter the spirit of the company, but rather enriches it. We look forward to providing another century of experience, quality and

Jeffares & Green is a member of Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) and is affiliated to FIDIC and GAMA. All offices are certified by Dekra according to ISO9001.

integrity as JG Afrika. Sihluma Kunye – we develop together.”

Physical address: 3 7 S u n n i n g h i l l O ff i c e P a r k Peltier Drive Sunninghill 2191

Postal address: P O B o x 11 0 9 Sunninghill 2157 Johannesburg, South Africa.

Te l : + 2 7 ( 0 ) 11 2 3 1 2 2 0 0 F a x : + 2 7 ( 0 ) 11 8 0 7 1 6 0 7

Compiled by: Dorris Simpson

Vital Stats

Source: SoNA

Fast facts at your fingertips

In his 2016 State of the Nation Address, President Jacob

Oceans economy

Zuma outlined the progress made so far in developing the

•

the Transnet National Ports Authority.

country and new measures to better the lives of South Af•

ricans.

PSM takes a look at some of the important numbers from the

3 000 – kilometres of coastline surrounding South Africa.

President’s speech.

•

Economy

•

R660 million – investment brought by a fuel storage facility in Cape Town.

R100 million – to be invested a year by South African Tourism to promote domestic tourism. •

R7 billion – money committed in new port facilities by

R350 000 – investment being committed in the aquaculture sector.

•

9 – aquaculture farms already in production in the

10th – South Africa’s ranking in the World Economic

Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape and

Forum competitiveness report.

Northern Cape.

•

US$50 billion – investments announced by China.

•

US$10 billion – investment from China to South

Broadband roll-out

Africa for infrastructure, industrialisation and skills

•

• •

5 per cent – the annual growth target set in the

5 000 – government facilities in eight district municipalities to benefit from broadband roll-out.

development. •

R740 million – funding for a broadband roll-out

National Development Plan to be achieved by 2019.

allocated over a three-year period to connect more

R25 billion – investments attracted by incentives for the

than 5 000 government facilities in eight district

automotive sector over the past five years.

municipalities.

Energy

Health

•

R83 billion – government’s investment in Eskom.

•

R194 billion – investment attracted by the Renewable

Africans, which is an increase of eight and half years

Independent Power Producer Programme.

since 2015.

•

9 600 – megawatts of energy to be introduced in the

•

62 – life expectancy for both male and female South

3.2 million – HIV-positive people who benefitted from a massive roll-out of HIV testing and treatment in 2009.

next decade.

Water and sanitation

Safety and security

•

30 million - cubic meters of water to be provided per

during the 2015/16 financial year.

year by the Mokolo and Crocodile Water Augmentation project in Lephalale, Limpopo. • •

13 - the raised metres of the Clanwilliam Dam wall in

Employment

the Western Cape.

•

2 000 – the number of European Union (EU) companies operating in South Africa.

15 000 – the number of young people being trained by the Department of Water and Sanitation to curb water

•

350 000 – the number of jobs created by EU companies.

wastage.

Agriculture and land reform

implemented in the Eastern Cape and the Free

•

5 – the number of Agri-parks being constructed.

State.

•

27 – the number of proposals received from

•

commercial farmers. •

4 – the number of proposals received from commercial farmers that are being

57 – the number of police officers murdered to date

12 000 – the maximum hectares to be allowed for land ownership.

•

120 000 – the number of new land claims lodged by December 2015. Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Absa opens doors for SMEs Absa opens doors for SMEs

Absa is investing in individuals, communities and enterprises and through its enterprise development programmes is changing the South African business landscape one entrepreneur at a time. Absa is investing in individuals, communities and enterprises and through its enterprise development programmes is changing the South African business landscape one entrepreneur at a time.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in a vast majority of economies. In South Africa, SMEs employ almost 60% of the employable population - with over 12 million livelihoods relying directly on SMEs. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in a vast economies. South Africa, SMEs Absamajority Bank Ltdof(Absa), whollyInowned subsidiary of employ Barclays almost 60% of the employable population - with 12 million Africa Group member of Barclays, recognises the over importance livelihoods relying directly on SMEs. of small businesses as catalysts for economic growth and job creation. Absa Bank Ltd (Absa), wholly owned subsidiary Barclays As a responsible corporate citizen, Absa lends itsofsupport Africa member the importance to the Group national agendaoftoBarclays, promoterecognises a thriving SME sector. of small businesses as catalysts for economic growthofand While financial support is a key driver of the success thejob creation. SME, access to markets and building business skills are also As a responsible corporate citizen, Absa lends its support significant challenges to address. to the national agenda to promote a thriving SME sector. While financial development support is a key driverfrom of the success The enterprise offering Absa aimsof tothe open SME, to markets and building aremarkets, also doorsaccess for SMEs by providing access inbusiness three keyskills areas: significant challenges to address. funding and non-financial support (business support). The enterprise development offering from Absa aims to open Access to markets doors by is providing access inobstacle three keyfacing areas:SMEs markets, Accessfor toSMEs markets a more pressing funding and to non-financial support support). than access funding. The market(business exists, but the linkages

don’t. Access tobuyers, markets Corporate for example, in terms of preferential Access to markets a more pressing obstacle facing SMEs procurement, face is the challenge of locating and identifying than access funding. And The the market exists, butstruggle the linkages suitable SMEtosuppliers. SMEs in turn don’t. with accessing these corporates in order to secure supplier Corporate contracts. buyers, for example, in terms of preferential procurement, face the challenge of locating identifying Absa’s Procurement Portal – a virtual marketand place – creates the suitable suppliers. SMEs inSMEs turn struggle linkages SME between buyersAnd andthe suppliers. on the portal are with accessing these corporates in orderusing to secure supplier validated and verified. They are located various searchable contracts. fields such as geographic location, size or BEE status. To date Absa’s Procurement Portal virtual market place – creates the there are 30 000 SMEs and–3a500 corporates actively using the linkages portal. between buyers and suppliers. SMEs on the portal are validated and verified. They are located using various searchable fields such is aspart geographic size or BEEtostatus. To date The portal of Absa’slocation, value proposition go beyond there areand 30 000 3 500 corporates actively using the banking openSMEs doorsand by addressing a primary obstacle portal. facing SMEs. Furthermore, Barclays Africa’s presence in 12 The portal is part of Absa’s value proposition to go beyond banking and open doors by addressing a primary obstacle facing SMEs. Furthermore, Barclays Africa’s presence in 12

countries across the continent creates opportunities for these entrepreneurs and emerging small businesses beyond South Africa’s borders. countriestoacross the continent creates opportunities for these Access funding

entrepreneurs and emerging small(or businesses beyond South Considering that five out of seven 80%) SMEs in South Africa’sfail borders. Africa in their first two years of operation – mostly due to cash-flow problems – it is clear that improved financial Access to funding support will empower more SMEs to realise their ambition, and Considering five out of sevenin(or 80%)Africa. SMEs in South contribute tothat sustainable growth South Africa fail in their first two years of operation – mostly due to cash-flow problems – it is clear that improved financial in In addressing SME challenges Absa needs to be innovative support will empower more SMEs to solutions. realise their ambition, and its approach to providing pioneering It can advance contribute sustainable in South valid Africa. funding to to SMEs that havegrowth been awarded and viable contracts. Cash-flow principles are the primary lending drivers In challenges Absaorneeds to be innovative in as addressing opposed toSME traditional collateral security-based lending. its approach to providing can advance Absa has committed R250pioneering million persolutions. annum inItnon-traditional funding to SMEs that have been awarded valid and viable lending aimed entirely at the SME sector in South Africa. This is contracts. are the primary lending in order to Cash-flow fund SMEsprinciples that typically would not meet thedrivers normal as opposed to traditional lending criteria required bycollateral banks. or security-based lending. Absa has committed R250 million per annum in non-traditional lending at the SMEAbsa sectorhas in South This is Over andaimed aboveentirely the R250 million, createdAfrica. specialised in order to fundfunding SMEs that typically not meet the normal non-traditional solutions to would assist SMEs: lending criteria required by banks. • The Women Empowerment Fund provides credit to women entrepreneurs who have the skills and demonstrable Over and above the R250 has created specialised potential to service theirmillion, debts. Absa The funding is available for non-traditional funding to assist SMEs: all women SMEs whosolutions do not have sufficient security to start • The Empowerment Fund provides creditcriteria. to women theirWomen businesses under ‘normal’ banking lending whoCredit have the skills and demonstrable • entrepreneurs The Development Fund in partnership with USAID. potential debts. The funding issecurity available This fundto is service offered their to SMEs with insufficient forfor all women SMEs who do not have sufficient securityby to astart existing business and start-ups. The fund is backed their 50% businesses guarantee. under ‘normal’ banking lending criteria. •• The Credit to Fund partnership withbeen USAID. The Development SME Fund is offered BEEinSMEs who have This fundcontracts is offeredor totenders SMEs with insufficient security fordoes awarded by Government. The fund existing business and start-ups. The fund is backed by a not require security. 50% guarantee. • In partnership with the French Development Agency, Absa • The SME an Fund is offered to BEE in SMEs who have been of up can offer exclusive incentive the form of a rebate awarded contracts or tenders byThis Government. The driving fund does to 7% of the total loan amount. is for projects not require security. • In partnership with the French Development Agency, Absa can offer an exclusive incentive in the form of a rebate of up to 7% of the total loan amount. This is for projects driving

Absa Bank Limited Reg No 1986/004794/06 Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7

energy efficiency and renewable energy. • The Thembani International Guarantee Fund supports business with a minimum of 51% BEE business in South and Southern Africa. The fund offers 50% and 75% guarantees energy to SME efficiency clients. and renewable energy. • The Thembani International Guarantee Fund supports business with a minimum of 51% BEE business in South and Access to non-financial support Southern Africa. The fund offers 50% 75% guarantees Another critical challenge facing SMEs is and structural in nature. to SME clients. SMEs fail, not for lack of technical ability, but rather because of a lack of general business skills.

Access to non-financial support

Another SMEs is structural nature. Absa hascritical seven challenge Centres offacing Entrepreneurship locatedinacross the SMEs fail, notthe for purpose lack of technical ability, but rather because of country with of providing a support environment a of general business tolack SMEs. The centres are askills. perfect example of private and public sector cooperation that have led to the costs traditionally Absa has seven Entrepreneurship located across the associated with Centres starting of and running a business being reduced. country theinclude purposeeverything of providing a support environment Serviceswith offered from providing access to to SMEs. The centres are a perfect example of private and infrastructure (computers and printers) and meeting rooms, public sectortraining cooperation that on have led toissues. the costs traditionally to providing seminars various Topics range associated starting and running a business reduced. from SARS with and labour regulation to financial skillsbeing training. Services offered include everything from providing access to Mentoring services are also provided. infrastructure (computers and printers) and meeting rooms, to providing training seminars variousAbsa issues. Through non-financial supporton offering, hasTopics helpedrange over from SARS anddevelop labour their regulation to financial 42 000 SMEs businesses in theskills past training. year through Mentoring servicestools, are also provided. training, business seminars and networking. By offering non-traditional support, the Centres of Entrepreneurship will Through non-financial support offering, Absa has helped bring more small businesses online and make it easier forover 42 000 SMEs develop theirand businesses in the past year through entrepreneurs to establish grow their businesses. training, business tools, seminars and networking. By offering non-traditional support, theand Centres of Entrepreneurship Access to markets, funding non-traditional support iswill a bring more small online and make easier for complex recipe forbusinesses a successful business. Like it any masterpiece entrepreneurs to establish andextra growdetermination their businesses. it takes time, effort and some to get the ball rolling. By investing in individuals, communities and enterprises, Access to markets, funding and non-traditional support is a Absa, through its Enterprise Development programmes, complex recipe a successful business. Like any masterpiece is changing the for South African business landscape, one it takes time, effort and some extra determination to get the ball entrepreneur at a time. rolling. By investing in individuals, communities and enterprises, Absa, its Enterprise Development programmes, 0860through 040 302 / absa.co.za is changing the South African business landscape, one entrepreneur at a time.

0860 040 302 / absa.co.za

PROVINCIAL FOCUS

Writer: Albert Pule Photographer: Sazisiwe Mohamet

MEC Qoboshiyane is sowing seeds of success

he skies above the Eastern Cape have not released

implements and animals to the tune of R1 million.

much rain recently. The land has remained dry and

MEC Qoboshiyane says the donation will go a long way

dusty. Cattle have perished and plants have en-

towards helping farmers to grow their businesses and get

dured the same fate.

into commercial farming.

Farmers have seen much suffering and most of the arable

“I’m confident that from this group, we will be able to

land of the province remains untouched for this planting

produce farmers who will get into the farming business

season.

for commercial purpose and create jobs and mentor up-

These are some of the results of the current drought ravaging most parts of the country. “The situation in our province is not different from others.

and-coming farmers, especially from this region.”

Helping struggling farmers

Five of our districts are severely affected by this drought,”

In all the affected districts, the department, in partnership

says Eastern Cape MEC of Rural Development and Agrarian

with various stakeholders, has established district joint

Reform Mlibo Qoboshiyane.

operations committees to support efforts to help farmers

“We’ve already started, as a department, to provide

deal with the consequences of drought.

farmers with animal feed and rain water harvesting tanks.

MEC Qoboshiyane says there has been an improved

We’ve appealed to the district municipalities to come to

interaction between officials and clients. “Departmental

the party,” he adds.

officials are interacting with farmers and clients and are

Tackling the drought

educating them about alternative livestock management.”

MEC Qoboshiyane says minimising the negative impact of the drought requires better coordination and communication between all the affected stakeholders. Farmers, the department and municipalities should work closely if they want to come up with solutions to deal with the drought, he adds. The drought has ravaged the province and this has affected the current planting season. He says of the 42 000 hectares (ha) intended for farming this financial year, only 18 000 ha could be used. The department has assisted farmers in the Nkonkobe area by donating

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Apart from livestock management, the department has

MEC Qoboshiyane says his department is working closely

donated 780 tons of feed, 52 blocks of mineral lick and there

with the national Department of Rural Development and

are plans to increase fodder production in Keiskamahoek,

Land Reform to get people who have claimed land into

Blue Crane, Hacorp, Cradock and Qamata.

commercial farming.

He adds that farmers have also been assisted with water and equipment. “Four hundred water tanks and 5.6 million litres of water have been procured by the department. Deliveries have

“Through some of our programmes, we are encouraging them to get into mainstream commercial farming and even subsistence farming.”

commenced and we are targeting those severely affected

Agricultural colleges

districts.”

In an effort to get young people involved in agriculture,

The department, working closely with the Department of Water and Sanitation and district municipalities, will help maintain boreholes and windmills. The department will spend R19 million on this project. The department has also upgraded agricultural infrastruc-

the department decided to improve agricultural colleges in the province. MEC Qoboshiyane says the department is planning to refurbish the college farm and hostels at Fort Cox College. This will increase the intake of students.

ture across the province to the tune of R44 million. Fifty-sev-

The department is also embracing technology by giving

en projects were completed. These include animal handling

students at Tsolo Agricultural College iPads to use for their

facilities, dipping tanks, fencing, irrigation systems, piggeries,

assignments and to conduct research.

shearing sheds, feedlots, poultry structure and a workshop

“We are going to have students of competence, not stu-

that benefitted rural communities and created 1 714 jobs.

dents of attendance,” he says.

Land claims

a competitive edge because they will be given a chance

In 2014, government reopened the land claims process

to practice what they’ve learned in class in the different

giving people who missed the 1998 deadline the chance

community projects of the department.

to lodge a claim. The deadline for this process is June 2019. MEC Qoboshiyane says in the initial land claims period

The MEC adds that the colleges will give the students

Agri-parks

that ended in 1998, over 17 000 claims were lodged and

The Eastern Cape has also made strides in its efforts to

over 16 000 were finalised.

implement the Agri-parks that were announced by Presi-

In the second round of land claims, so far over 11 000

dent Jacob Zuma in his 2015 State of the Nation Address.

claims were lodged. “This tells us that people were still in

The Agri-parks comprise three basic units that deal with

need of this service. They want their claims to be settled.”

support for farmers, equipment hire and linking farmers

MEC Qoboshiyane is hopeful that government is on the right track. “Eleven thousand is not a small number, we are happy so

to markets. He adds that there were plans to establish other Agriparks across the province.

far and it shows that people were not properly informed

Despite the hardships facing the agricultural sector, MEC

and did not know how to go about this the first time

Qoboshiyane is hopeful that, with the help of government,

around.”

it will continue to flourish in the Eastern Cape.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

*Writer: Manusha Pillai

SA puts its best foot forward at the WEF

he South African flag once again flew high and

Understanding the importance of this platform to co-

proudly in Davos in the Swiss Alps during the an-

hesively position a country as one that is globally com-

nual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF)

petitive, Team South Africa has, in recent years, prepared

recently. For a few days, Davos hosted heads of state and gov-

between business and government to agree on the mes-

ernment, business leaders, opinion makers, analysts and

sage that had to be communicated and how this would be

representatives of civil society who came together to de-

done. The preparation of this message took into account

liberate on pertinent global issues that both developed

the domestic and international environment.

and developing countries are grappling with. Over this

Team South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preparation for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s WEF also

period, the town of Davos was the epicentre of thought

included an engagement hosted by President Jacob Zuma

leadership, analyses and discussions on innovative solu-

during which government and business broke away into

tions to common challenges.

smaller groups to discuss exactly how South Africa should

The WEF also presented an opportunity for participating

position itself as a globally competitive destination amidst

countries to showcase the best that they have to offer to

a turbulent global economic environment. This included

the gathering of global leaders in their various sectors.

steadily declining commodity and oil prices as well as

South Africa was represented at Davos by a multi-stake-

thoroughly ahead of the WEF. This included engagements

downward revisions of global growth projections.

holder delegation consisting of government and business

Both government and business understand only too well

representatives. Davos also offered participants an oppor-

that South Africa is not isolated from this global environ-

tunity to crowd source best practices, lessons learnt and

ment. Despite our diversified economy, strong macro-

possible solutions to, amongst others, economic growth,

economic policy and fiscal environment, the falling com-

job creation and youth development.

modity prices, amongst others, present a challenge to our

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

economic growth forecasts. We have recently seen the World

results. The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbi-

Bank’s assessment that our economy is projected to grow at

tration has been given responsibility through the Labour Act

0.8 per cent this year.

amendment to mediate in resolving strikes.

Team South Africa’s most important message to delegates at

•

Comprehensive business incentive packages across sectors

WEF Davos was that we are open for business and remain committed to ensuring policy certainty and consistency. Our pro-

offer support to business. •

South Africa provides a platform to leverage on the fastest-

grammes to fast track growth and development and unblock

growing region in the world.

bottlenecks through, amongst others, Operation Phakisa, will

Team South Africa also leveraged the opportunity in Davos

ensure that we focus on the implementation of policies, which

to assure investors that South Africa was committed to en-

will contribute towards economic growth and development.

suring an investor-friendly and supportive environment. In

Team South Africa’s messages at WEF focused on the fol-

this regard, business and government communicated that to

lowing:

encourage inward investment into the country, a One-Stop

•

South Africa’s strong macro-economic framework has shielded

Inter-Departmental Clearing House, which will provide effi-

the economy from the full brunt of a challenging global eco-

cient support to investors to ensure that South Africa offers

nomic environment and volatility in global capital markets.

an investment-friendly environment, will be established. This

Government, through its fiscal consolidation measures, is

will be operational by the end of 2016.

•

committed to continued fiscal prudence and preservation of •

•

investment grade credit ratings.

incentives and support services for investors in the Special

Private partnerships in energy through renewable pro-

Economic Zones programme. The Manufacturing Competi-

grammes are fast contributing to power availability over and

tiveness Enhancement Programme and the Manufacturing

above the large energy infrastructure built.

Investment Programme will also be used to attract investors

Mature banking institutions and world-class capital markets

into the country.

make for easy access to capital. •

•

South Africa will also introduce and implement a range of

The South African flag was a key symbol in Davos during the

The adoption of a socio-economic impact assessment system

WEF. The spirit of the South African delegation, like the scarves

by Cabinet in September 2015, seeks to avoid policy contradic-

bearing the national flag that were worn by Team South Africa

tions and preserve business-friendly environment.

and other delegates, really warmed up the snow-covered town

Eﬀ orts at the National Economic Development and Labour

of Davos.

Council to foster a stable labour environment are yielding

It is this warm South African spirit and international goodwill that we should now draw on to ensure that our country is able to weather the storm of a challenging domestic and global economic environment. South Africa and its people have always demonstrated resilience and a strength that has inspired the world. We now need to draw on this to implement the policies and programmes, which will move our country forward while ensuring that our citizens enjoy a better life. South Africa needs all hands on deck. * Manusha Pillai, General Manager: Communications, Brand South Africa.

President Jacob Zuma with Prof Klaus Schwab, founder and Executive Chairperson of the World Economic Forum. Public Sector Manager • March 2016

ADVERTORIAL

DEVELOPING THE NATION

THE INDEPENDENT DEVELOPMENT TRUST: SUPPORTING THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN THROUGH SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY

IDT Vodacom ICT Skills Development Programme

CREATING

73 251 work opportunities

through its programmes and the Expanded Public Works Programme

Contact details: Office of the Chief Executive Officer INDEPENDENT DEVELOPMENT TRUST (012) 845 2000 (EXT 2101)

Completed Polokwane High Court 3

E-mail address: ceo@idt.org.za Physical address: Cnr Oberon and Sprite Streets, Glenwood Office Park, IDT Building, Faerie Glen, Pretoria, 0043 GPS Coordinates: 25°46’49.4”S 28°17’32.0” E Postal address: P.O. Box 73000, Lynwood Ridge, 0040 Website address: www.idt.org.za

Old Kuyasa Junior Secondary School in EC

Completed Kuyasa Junior Secondary School in Eastern Cape

The Independent Development Trust (IDT) is one of the few State Institutions which actively support the National Development Plan (NDP). This Schedule 2 state owned entity, which reports to the

implementation; • Completing 42 new and replacement schools in various provinces;

Department of Public Works (DPW) has aligned its priorities to

• Creating 73,251 work opportunities through its programmes and

the objectives of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the

the Expanded Public Works Programme;

National Infrastructure Plan (NIP) of government. The National

• Awarding Projects worth R225 million to the Contractor

Infrastructure Plan (NIP) integrates and coordinates the long-term infrastructure build for government in order to promote a balanced economic development and job creation. Furthermore, the IDT has aligned itself with the strategic focus of the National Department of Public Works which entails being the custodian of national

Development Programme (CDP) participants; • Awarding contracts valued at R1,72 billion to women-owned enterprises and R1,09 billion to youth-owned enterprises; • Supporting 378 Community Based Organisations (CBO’s), NonProfit Organisations (NPO’s) and Co-operatives;

government’s immovable assets, the leader of the Expanded

• Spending R4.287 billion on BBBEE qualifying organisations,

Public Works Programme (EPWP) and the transformation of the

representing 65% of its 2014/15annual programme spend of

construction and property sector.

R6.371 billion.

The core mandate of the IDT is to deliver social infrastructure

IMPACT OF THE WORK OF THE IDT

programmes which include schools, hospitals, clinics, courts,

The work of the IDT has impacted positively on a number of

multi-purpose community centers, early childhood development

people and communities. This positive impact includes:

centers and sports facilities in order to fast track service delivery

• Creating job opportunities through social infrastructure and

in communities. The IDT also manages the delivery of social

social development programmes;

development programmes which include Extended Public Works Programme focusing on job creation, environmental protection,

• Increasing access to basic services such as education, justice, health and social welfare;

and community enterprise support.

• Enhancing community’s asset base by developing critically

IDT’s programmes are delivered on behalf of national and

• Empowering women and youth owned enterprises through

needed social infrastructure; provincial governments. In undertaking programme delivery,

supporting and assisting emerging contractors through skilling

the IDT focuses on programme management services entailing

and allocation of projects;

planning, procurement, quality, scope, costs, resources,

• Promoting Local Economic Development (LED) through its

integration and community mobilization.

supplier and entrepreneur development measures, thereby contributing to the growth and economic vibrancy of the

Not only does the organisation abide by the internationally

communities;

recognized principles and standards of programme management but it consciously integral social facilitation into its delivery

• Creating awareness of and providing meaningful participation of communities in public funded programmes;

process. This allows communities to participate, own and sustain

• Creating long-lasting and mutual beneficial partnerships with the

their own development. Communities, therefore became key

Non-State Sector such as the Non-Governmental Organisations

drivers and beneficiaries to development and drivers of their own

(NGOs), Non- Profit Organisations (NPOs) and Community

development and empowerment.

Based Organisations (CBOs).

IDT’S APPROACH TO PROGRAMME DELIVERY

SOME OF THE IDT’S HIGH IMPACT PROGRAMMES

ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2014/15 FINANCIAL YEAR

The set of these photos highlight some of the high impact projects

Recently, the IDT has achieved an impressive service delivery

that the IDT has undertaken in the recent past.

record. Amongst its key achievements are: • Supporting 44 Government Departments with programme

High care unit in Kimberly Hospital

Construction of the Mpumalanga High Court 2

Aerial view of Danhauser Community Health Centre in Northern KwaZulu-Natal

FEATURE

Supplied: City of Joburg

Joburg rides the wave despite

troubled economic waters

ohannesburg continues to lead the way as a pioneering

in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of two to three per cent

city in South Africa, with a good economic forecast at

over the medium-term, resulting in an expanding tax base

the beginning of 2016. Despite the prevailing climate

when coupled with a slightly rising population.

of uncertainty in local and global markets, rising interest rates

For global investors, it shows that the City of Johannesburg

and rapid fluctuations of currencies, the City of Johannesburg

is a safe and potentially profitable investment destination. For

stands out as a great example of stability and prudent financial

local residents, ratepayers and the business sector, it sends

management.

positive messages that the policies implemented by the city

The city’s reputation as an attractive destination for investment was strengthened by the recent decision of global agency, Fitch Ratings, to upgrade and affirm the city’s longterm ratings. The agency lauded the city for its “robust budgetary per-

are correct and that the leadership can be trusted to continue on its current path. This should result in more investment, leading to economic growth, job creation and further opportunities to improve infrastructure and the quality of service delivery in the city.

formance” when measured against international standards. It

Recently, the city scooped the prestigious C40 Cities Award

highlighted the fact that Joburg is the largest and wealthiest

2015 for its Green Bond initiative in Paris. The Green Bond,

city in the country as well as home to the major financial

which was oversubscribed, has already raised R1.458 billion in

institutions and corporate headquarters. The report singles

the past financial year and this is being invested in numerous

out the city’s capacity to collect revenue and offer ratepayers

projects in the effort to green the city.

good value for the rates and taxes they contribute. Fitch noted that, despite a slowdown in the national econ-

Infrastructure to develop Corridors of Freedom

omy, the city’s R10 billion investment in infrastructure over

In 2012/13, Johannesburg Executive Mayor Parks Tau an-

a 10-year period will support the continuing good perfor-

nounced that the city would invest more than R100 billion

mance of its economy. This will lead to an average growth

over 10 years in major infrastructure projects mostly related to the Corridors of Freedom. The Corridors of Freedom are transport-orientated developments that will see Johannesburg transcend apartheid-era town planning by bringing schools, services, work opportunities and other benefi ts closer to people’s homes, especially of those who live on the outskirts of the city. The main objective of the creation of the Corridors of Freedom is to undo apartheid’s spatial planning, create a unified city and improve communities’ access to economic and job opportunities. Much has been done to develop the Rotunda Precinct in Turffontein, the Empire-Perth Corridor, Louis Botha Avenue and the Soweto Corridor around Mooki Drive, including the upgrade of the Nancefield Station. All these projects are designed to uplift communities, im-

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

prove mobility and integrate communities. A critical part

Mayor Tau says Joburg is a city “where the young lead the

of the Corridors of Freedom has been the development of

call for transformation, demanding the opportunity to work,

the Rea Vaya Rapid Bus system which has been lauded the

to improve their lives and become the best of what they

world over.

wish to be”.

Empowering the youth

Smart city opening new worlds

Johannesburg is also making strides in its efforts to bring

Smart technology is increasingly changing the lives of resi-

youth into the mainstream of economic activities through

dents of Joburg as the city’s rollout of ICT infrastructure

creative programmes such as Jozi@Work and Vulindlel’ eJozi.

gathers momentum.

The city has implemented the R3 billion developmental

In the next six months the city will continue to expand Wi-

programme, Jozi@Work, which is a co-production model

Fi coverage and introduce new technology that improves

designed for the municipality to partner with communities

interaction with residents and raises the quality of service

to boost the delivery of municipal services in communities.

delivery.

This project was lauded in a recent international research

The “Smart City” concept highlighted by Mayor Tau in his

report for its success in harnessing the power of youth to

State of the City Address is starting to take shape. “Digital

drive sustainable economic growth.

access is becoming as much an equity issue in our society

The findings are contained in a report titled “Accelerating

as access to water and electricity,” says Mayor Tau.

Pathways: Youth Economic Strategy Index 2015”. The respect-

The Smart City Flagship programme has already achieved

ed business publication, The Economist, was commissioned

a number of milestones and will continue to be rolled out

by the Citi Foundation to conduct the research in 35 cities

in the last half of the current financial year.

around the world including Sydney, London, Madrid, Moscow, Mexico City, Hong Kong and Miami. Mayor Tau describes the recognition of the city as “a welcome development”. Johannesburg is well aware of the need for significant reforms in education, entrepreneurship, skills development and training to empower young people in the current economic climate,” he adds.

The availability of free Wi-Fi is spreading across the city. More than 100 city-owned buildings are already connected and 370 Wi-Fi sites have gone live. A wireless mesh has been introduced in Braamfontein, enabling people to connect to free Wi-Fi on laptops, tablets and enabled mobile phones and download up to 1GB per month for free. Some 35 libraries in Johannesburg are linked to the broadband network and a further 52 will follow by mid-2016. Fast

The report says “policy need not involve substantial costs.” It

and free broadband will give Joburg resdients access to mas-

refers to Jozi@Work as “a highly innovative initiative” through

sive open online varsities where they can do course work

which Johannesburg “tries to address several urban issues

and receive qualifications from internationally accredited

simultaneously”.

institutions.

It also praises Johannesburg because it has made youth development one of its largest priorities because of the clear

Unlocking creativity

economic and societal need for progress, turning the so-

Through the #Hack.Jozi Challenge the city attracted inno-

called ‘ticking time-bomb generation’ into an opportunity

vative and entrepreneurial locals who came up with great

for success.

ideas for digital products that will help to solve problems

Through Vulindlel’ eJozi the city has committed to create

in their respective communities. An amount of R5 million

200 000 new jobs for the youth and has partnered with the

has been set aside to support digital start-up enterprises in

private sector to provide financial incentives for hiring youth.

the Smart City.

Johannesburg has also established a network of ‘youth ad-

Given the rapid migration of people towards cities, there

visories’ at community level to reach out to young people,

is a growing realisation that future solutions for the most

listen to their concerns and begin to address the needs in

pressing issues facing humanity will have to be found in

areas such as education, job training and employment.

the urban spheres and led by local government leaders. >>

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

Some cities are increasingly looking south, to cities such as

•

Johannesburg, for inspiration and innovation.

under way include Cosmo City and the Malibongwe Ridge

This is a role that Johannesburg as an aspirant world-class

development which has been allocated a further R88.8 mil-

African city is willing to warm up to.

lion in the current budget. The Zandspruit development in Honeydew will proceed once environmental constraints of

Mega housing projects The city is going full-steam ahead to meet its target to deliver

Node 2 is located in the Johannesburg north west. Projects

the wetlands have been resolved. •

95 000 housing units by 2019.

Node 3 in the south of Johannesburg will see developments to further the city’s densification plans. Projects in

Many mega housing projects that will have a catalytic im-

South Hills and Kliptown-Nancefield are already underway

pact on growth in the city are either in the pipeline or in the

and Southern Farms and Ennerdale Ext 19 will follow soon.

planning stages. An amount of R657 million was set aside

Together the project will yield more than 68 000 units.

for housing projects in the 2015/16 financial year – almost

•

Node 4 is focused on the Corridors of Freedom and the re-

double the allocation for the previous period. This amount

generation of the Johannesburg Inner City. This is currently

will be increased to R932 million in the next financial year.

in the pre-planning stage but will eventually provide 50 000

These mega projects will provide opportunities for densification, mixed-use and transit-oriented development, linking

homes. •

economic opportunities to places of residence.

and Modderfontein, linking the east of the city with Ekurhu-

The developments are grouped into seven nodes, spread

leni. New developments in Rabie Ridge, Marlboro as well as

out across the city from a spatial perspective and planned according to Gauteng’s Transformation, Modernisation and

several bonded houses are in the planning stage. •

Reindustrialisation programme.

Node 6 links Johannesburg with Sedibeng and the West Rand to form New City 3. A total of 24 000 housing units are

The seven nodes are: •

Node 5 is known as New City 2 and encompasses Alexandra

being built in Lufhereng and the envisaged development

Node 1 known as Lanseria City is located in the northern part

by the Gauteng province in Syferfontein will see the deliv-

of the city. There will be mega projects around Lion Park, in

ery of a further 60 000 homes. Issues relating to dolomite

Diepsloot East and Riverside View, Ext 28.

and acid mine drainage are currently being addressed.

This will yield 46 500 housing units and serve as a link be-

•

Node 7 is centered on Fleurhof. Phases 1 and 2 are both

tween Johannesburg, Tshwane and the West Rand District

already being developed and will yield 18 200 homes, while

Municipality.

future plans for Goudrand Ext 4 are being investigated.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

Writer: Stephen Timm

One-stop shop a

boost for investment A

s the government looks for ways to revitalise the economy, the launch of a one-stop shop for investment is expected to make it easier for investors to set up in South Africa.

This follows the unveiling by President Jacob Zuma of the Depart-

ment of Trade and Industry’s (dti) Inter-Departmental Clearing House during a high-level meeting with more than 140 chief executives at the Cape Sun Hotel in Cape Town recently. The clearing house will act as a one-stop shop for domestic and international investors looking to set up or expand in South Africa. It will be followed later this year by the launch of a strategic body called Invest SA, which will be based in The Presidency, and will have the responsibility of improving the country’s investment environment. The unveiling of the clearing house also follows the President’s establishment of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) in January to improve support and assistance to investors wishing to take advantage of investment opportunities in the country. Head of Investment Promotion and Inter-Departmental Clearing House at the dti, Yunus Hoosen, said chief executives at the meeting with the President “welcomed” the clearing house and new investment strategy. He said further ongoing inputs from business would be fed to the Presidential Big Business Working Group and through the interactions that Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan is holding with business. With South Africa’s growth outlook having been downgraded to no more than one per cent growth this year, Hoosen admitted there was a sense of urgency in the department. “There is a sense of us talking to a number of vulnerable businesses in the commodities space so that we are not caught napping,” he said. Hoosen added that to ensure that the overall investment environment is improved, individual departments will be expected to improve their turnaround time on paperwork and look to automate some processes. A number of companies were assisted by the clearing house last year, when the agency was operating on a trial basis. These included

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

assistance to Nestlé to address energy constraints at its plants

Sandton was introduced in May last year by the Department

in Harrismith, Babelegei, Estcourt and East London and helping

of Home Affairs for corporate and business permits and in 10

Unilever with community and municipal facilitation at its new

months, to February this year, 1 000 business, work and rela-

site in Lords View near Kempton Park.

tives visas had been processed by the centre, he said.

The agency also helped Samsung get customs clearance

Mhlongu said the establishment of the VFS centre had also

with the South African Revenue Service and to obtain Let-

helped the one-stop organisation to begin building a pipe-

ters of Authority from the National Regulator for Compulsory

line of businesses and investors. In addition embassies have

Specification.

also shown a considerable interest in the number of forums

Hoosen said the department plans to also measure the turnaround time of respective permits, licenses and regulations – such as for company registration or finalising environmental impact assessments.

that the GIC has hosted on specific issues, such as on tax regulations. He said once an investor approaches the GIC for assistance, the centre helps them to ensure that all documentation is sub-

The department also wants to set up a web portal for the

mitted on time, to avoid lengthy turnaround times. In addition

investment clearing house, which would contain things such

the agency also tracks processing times for things like permits

as value propositions for the country as well as those for the

and environmental impact assessments and meets once a

country’s various business sectors.

month with other stakeholders to discuss any challenges.

He added that the country’s largest cities were currently un-

Mhlongu said future plans include establishing a trade desk

dergoing a World Bank peer review system, which was being coordinated by National Treasury, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) and the respective metros. The idea is that each province

to handle queries on ex-

The department also wants to set up a web portal for the investment clearing house, which would contain things such as value propositions for the country as well as those for the country’s various business sectors.

porting and importing from visiting trade delegations. He added that the agency is also looking into setting up a digital

will also have its own invest-

platform to handle vari-

ment clearing house, which

ous license and visa ap-

will then report to the dti’s Inter-departmental clearing house. A pilot for the one-stop shops has been conducted using

plications, but pointed out that a key challenge is that some departments are not geared to process electronic forms.

the model of the Gauteng Investment Centre (GIC) based at

Meanwhile, The Presidency said in January that the IMC

the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA) and

would support the clearing house by, among other things,

Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal is also conducting a

identifying key investment projects, as well as ways to scale

feasibility study for a one-stop shop.

up private-sector investment and support black industrialists

Sipho Mhlongo, Group Executive for Trade and Investment

and small businesses.

and Regulatory Enablement at the GGDA, said the establish-

It will also coordinate inputs into the task teams of the Presi-

ment of the GIC in February 2014 helped to create more cer-

dential Big Business Working Group and the new Broad Based

tainty for investors on the business operating environment in

Black Economic Empowerment commission.

the province. “It creates less fuzziness and better expectations,” he stressed.

The IMC comprises the Ministers of Trade and Industry; Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries; Cogta; Economic Development;

The centre acts as a one-stop shop for investors, by linking

Energy; Environmental Affairs; Health; Finance; Home Affairs;

them with various departments and helping them to obtain

Mineral Resources; Public Enterprises; Rural Development;

information on various government services.

Science and Technology; Water and Sanitation; and Small

A visa facilitation service (VFS) centre at the GIC’s offices in

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Business Development.

ADVERTORIAL

INVESTING IN SAFE WATER FOR AFRICAN COMMUNITIES MAKES BUSINESS SENSE FOR JAGUAR LAND ROVER By Nigel Clarke, Sales Director of Jaguar Land Rover sub-Sahara Africa “We want to help build stronger communities around the world, delivering positive impacts for society by tackling issues pertinent to both our industry and the communities in which we operate,” explains Mike Wright, Executive Director, Jaguar Land Rover.

Child helped to get water

Jaguar Land Rover is growing and we take our role as a responsible corporate citizen seriously. For over 60 years we have invested in communities around the world supporting social, educational and environmental projects. By working with experts we can ensure we deliver support, which is appropriate, effective and leaves a lasting legacy. For example, since 1953 we have worked with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, loaning and donating 120 vehicles and providing direct help to more than 800 000 people. Since 2009, we’ve worked with climate and sustainable development company ClimateCare, to deliver an integrated ClimateCare programme that cuts carbon and improves lives around the world. In 2013 Jaguar Land Rover launched its Global CSR Programme that will create new opportunities for 12 million people around the world by 2020. This integrated approach, pulling together our UK and global activities, supports our global growth plans, and helps focus our staff and national sales companies around the world on a common goal.

“Water is one such issue. With rising demand and the impacts of climate change putting increasing pressure on water resources, reducing water consumption across our own operations is critical to future-proof our business, as is supporting access to safe water in the communities in which we operate.” The economies of African countries have grown rapidly and it is becoming an increasingly important region for Jaguar Land Rover. Of our 45 global projects, 11 are in Africa, where we use our resources to help address social issues and support further economic development. Since 2013, our support for life-changing projects has delivered new opportunities for 2.9 million people in Africa and by April 2016, this will rise to four million. The organisation has a strong business case for investment in Africa. We select activities that reflect our core values and really matter to staff and stakeholders, inspiring and motivating them. Addressing key social issues helps people achieve their potential and supports economic growth – something that will ultimately both improve the availability of future talent for job opportunities and create new demand for its vehicles. One example of this type of win-win activity is a new project we launched with ClimateCare and Vestergaard in Bungoma, Western Kenya, which uses smart technology to provide safe water to more than 300 000 school children.

The LifeStraw Water for Schools project provides award winning LifeStraw water purifying technology to 375 schools and incorporates a programme to educate a whole generation of children about the importance of safe water and hygiene. The programme will reduce children’s risk of contracting waterborne diseases like typhoid and cholera, improving opportunities for them to study and achieve their dreams, leaving a lasting legacy for the individuals involved and helping build stronger, healthier communities. Seven Jaguar Land Rover employees from across the business were directly involved in launching the project. They tested the off-road capabilities of the Land Rover Defender and Discovery vehicles they helped build, in order to take filters to 19 schools in hard to reach rural communities. Involving employees in the hands-on delivery of this safe water project has helped Jaguar Land Rover engage its workforce, increase understanding of the importance and impact of its Global CSR Programme, and has created ambassadors within the business, driving change and encouraging colleagues to adopt a sustainability mind set. I joined our employees at the launch and really enjoyed talking to the pupils at the schools and seeing our volunteers in action, distributing the safe water technology and training teachers and children in its use. This brought home the real impact this programme will have, creating opportunities for 300 000 school children across Bungoma. “Programmes like this that deliver real business and community value are the future for unlocking private sector finance for sustainable development work,” explains Tom Morton, Director of ClimateCare Nairobi. ClimateCare, Vestergaard and Jaguar Land Rover hope that sharing their experiences

Pirosha Iyer

Lifestraw Discovery profile with children

will encourage other businesses to invest in Africa and deliver shared value for their organisations, their employees and the communities in which they operate. THE EMPLOYEE PIROSHA IYER, SUPPLY PLANNING, SOUTH AFRICA & SUB-SAHARA AFRICA, JAGUAR LAND ROVER Pirosha Iyer, was one of the lucky Jaguar Land Rover employees who joined the experience. “I interacted with so many children and to hear their stories was amazing. There are so many of them who have suffered from cholera, typhoid, diarrhoea and many other illnesses from drinking unsafe water. To see their faces light up when they heard that they were to receive a solution to the unsafe water problem is an experience I cannot properly express, and is something I will never forget.” Pirosha’s responsibilities on the trip included visiting schools and teaching pupils about basic hygiene and how to use the LifeStraw product in order to obtain safe water. “To have had the opportunity to teach those children why it is so important to wash fruit and vegetables before eating them, and why you must wash your hands after visiting the bathroom was just amazing. You don’t make a difference to just one person, you make a difference to the help to improve things for an entire community.” The project launch team are now back at their day jobs, but it’s no longer business as usual. They are now a team of pro-active Environmental Innovation advocates that are already driving change across the business, identifying ways to improve water consumption, do business differently and create positive impacts around the world.

Contact details: Tel: +27 (0)12 450 4139 • Fax: +27 (0)12 450 4002 Email: nclarke@jaguarlandrover.com Web: www.jaguar.co.za • www.landrover.co.za

Nigel Clarke helps provide a child with safe drinking water at school for the first time as part of Jaguar Land Rover’s global CSR programme (Photo Credit Kate Holt).

THE TEACHER MADAM SAMIRAH KARIM, CHEPTAIS ELITE ACADEMY Samirah Karim is a teacher of Maths, Science and English at the Cheptais Elite Academy in Bungoma. “I became a teacher because I love children and helping them learn and develop. I’m actually from this area but my family moved away when we were young; it’s so nice to be able to come back and work in my homeland,” comments Samirah. The school water is usually collected from a borehole, but this is broken at the moment, so they use the local stream. The water is not safe to drink, particularly when it rains a lot and is contaminated from the latrines and the children suffer with stomach upsets and typhoid. “We had a bad outbreak earlier this year which affected around 50 children. As a sanitation teacher, I tell the children about cleanliness, the importance of washing hands and personal hygiene.” “The LifeStraw filters will change our students’ lives. They won’t miss school due to illness, which gives them the best chance to do well in exams and continue

their studies at college. The safe water will keep them healthy and they will go home and educate their families about the importance of safe water and how it will reduce sickness.” THE CHILDREN CALBE WAFULA, JANS EDWARD ACADEMY Calbe is a pupil at the Jans Edward Academy in Bungoma. As a boarder he lives and studies at school and relies on the staff to provide him with water that is safe to drink. Until recently that simply wasn’t possible – with the only water being available from the borehole that supplies the school. As a result, Calbe has been hospitalised with Typhoid, where he learnt the importance of filtering and drinking safe water. This project to bring safe water to schools in Bungoma has inspired him not only to make sure his own drinking water is safe, but also to spread the word and this technology to others around the world. “When I finish school, I want to help people in our society. I want to be a pilot because I will take these LifeStraw [filters] from one country to another to help those people affected by disease.”

FEATURE

Writer: Stephen Timm

Govt, farmers working hard to mitigate drought

s the effects of one of the worst droughts in South

Giving an update on the status of drought relief sup-

Africa’s recent history lingers on, government de-

port to the agricultural sector, Agriculture, Forestry and

partments and municipalities are drafting several

Fisheries Minister Senzeni Zokwana said R32 million had

new plans to better prepare for climate change.

“ The IDC will consider financial assistance to its

task team led by Cooperative Governance and Traditional

existing clients that apply for drought relief support while

Affairs Minister David van Rooyen that meets weekly to

for non-IDC clients, lending will not be made available

coordinate government’s response to the drought.

directly to the end-beneficiary but rather through Nation-

Central to government’s efforts are the Long-term Adaptation Scenarios released in 2013 by the Department

al Credit Act-compliant intermediaries like Land Bank and AgriBusiness,” Minister Zokwana explained.

of Environmental Affairs. They assess the possible impacts

The Minister explained that the loan agreement would

in all key economic and social sectors, and elaborate

be entered into between the IDC and the relevant

adaptation options for the country’s water resources, food

intermediary.

security, health, human settlements and infrastructure. Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa said re-

“These intermediaries will have to apply to the IDC on a case-by-case basis and due diligence will be applicable.”

cently that a number of provinces had also completed

In relation to the directive, Minister Zokwana said

climate change vulnerability assessments and were pre-

the department had given provinces 20 per cent - or

paring response plans. Cities are also coordinating their

R226 million in total - of the Letsema grant, initially aimed

own responses.

at boosting food security but which was not going to be

The scenarios point out that the country needs to improve its understanding of the trade-offs in water allocation to promote sustainable and more economically effective water use.

Help for drought-affected areas Government has pledged R32 million to help farmers affected by drought.

already been approved.

These plans are in addition to the work carried out by a

used in the immediate future because of the ongoing drought. Provinces that have applied and received approval include KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, North West, Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Northern Cape. The Eastern Cape has applied while the Western Cape has not yet reprioritised, the Minister said. In Limpopo, an additional amount of R51 million has

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has

been set aside, with R20 million going towards the pro-

made available soft loans as emergency funding towards

curement of fodder to assist smallholder and subsist-

working capital, infrastructure and a small portion for

ence farmers, while R31 million will be spent on water

carry-over debt for the commercial sector.

for livestock.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

The Free State has allocated R10.692 million and R29

Project Phase 2, an emergency transfer of Tugela to Goe-

million from its Equitable Share and Comprehensive Agri-

detrouw, the uThongathi River transfer to Hazelmere and

cultural Support Programme budget to assist subsistence,

infrastructure upgrade developments for dams in Hazelmere,

smallholder and commercial farmers.

Clanwilliam and Tzaneen.

The Gauteng province has to date spent R6 200 000 on

The department has also prepared a draft pricing strategy,

animal feed, water infrastructure, phosphate licks and de-

which proposes a number of changes to the current version

silting of earth dams. A total of R7 717 080 was approved

of the pricing strategy, including the protection of the poor

in the Northern Cape and has already assisted 257 farmers

from rising water prices.

and helped in the distribution of 2 500 tons of fodder during October and November.

The agricultural sector is particularly vulnerable to climate change, the Long-term Adaptation Scenarios point out. Only

The North West has made available R25 million for drought

14 per cent of the country is considered potentially arable

relief and by 18 January, 10 228 farmers received assistance.

and irrigated agriculture is the largest single surface water

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has been carrying out various measures since late last year to assist drought stricken areas.

user, consuming 60 per cent of total available water. To assist farmers to cope with climate change, the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) is

The department’s Deputy Director-General of Strategic

drafting a new policy on conservation agriculture. The de-

and Emergency Projects, Trevor Balzer, said these included

partment has also set up a National Conservation Agriculture

measures such as the War on Leaks campaign, emergency

Taskforce, which will ensure that conservation agriculture

water carting with vehicle tankers, discharge of water from

forums are set up in each province.

one dam to another, repairing existing boreholes and digging new ones, and carrying out repairs on municipal water

Sustainable farming principles

infrastructure.

Increasingly, more farmers are turning to sustainable farming

Balzer said water restrictions had been implemented in

principles to help them adapt to climate change.

recent months at about 36 of the 326 dams managed by

For some, like smallholder farmer Nicholas Thabane

the department. The restrictions limit the flow of water to

Madondo, it is helping them weather the drought. He and

water authorities.

a group of 150 smallholder farmers in Bergville, in KwaZu-

In December, the DWS adopted a three-step plan to help

lu-Natal, have been successfully employing conservation

ensure water security. The plan looks at curtailing water

agriculture methods since 2002 – first through support from

leakages, adopting a greater degree of water-use efficiency

the Agriculture Research Council (ARC) and the Department

and consideration for longer-term measures such as the

of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ LandCare Programme

recycling of grey water.

and over the past three years through assistance from farm-

When it comes to long-term planning, the department is

ing association Grain SA.

preparing an Integrated Water Master Plan, for which the

The practice of conservation agriculture, which centres on

public comments period was expected to close in February.

soil health, was developed in the US in the 1950s. It relies on

The plan will be the first-of-its-kind and will be developed

three principles: minimum tilling of soil, ensuring that soil is

in support of the National Development Plan. It will include

covered constantly with an organic substance such as crop

the exploration of desalination, which is already being pi-

residue or a cover crop and the use of crop diversification to

loted in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. Prioritising

ensure that different crops are in rotation to drive soil fertility.

areas of operations and maintenance, to capacitate the

Madondo says the methods have helped farmers to stabi-

state, will also form part of the masterplan.

lise the area’s soil structure and the soil is no longer eroded.

Balzer said South Africa currently relies heavily on surface

On the other side of the country in North West, Ottosdal

and, to a lesser degree, borehole water, but would have to

farmer Hannes Otto says the financial position of many

begin turning to ground water and desalination.

farmers employing conversation agriculture methods has

On the medium- and long-term interventions, there are transfers of schemes from the Lesotho Highlands Water

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

improved, partly because they have been able to save on inputs like seed.

FEATURE

And while wind has blown away much of the topsoil of farms

conversation agriculture methods.

in the area, farmers employing conservation agriculture meth-

Smith says the association is presently facilitating four

ods in the area have had no problem with wind erosion, he

projects, assisting 34 commercial farmers and three more pro-

says.

jects, with over 200 smallholder farmers, in the North West,

“A lot of farmers say the drought is part of (running) a business in this part of the world. But there are farmers like myself that are concerned about the drought and our future,” says Otto. He says traditional farming techniques have “destroyed” the soil and have contributed to releasing more carbon into the atmosphere. “So we have to change,” Otto adds.

Research trials on the new techniques

Free State, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal. Although he admits that progress is difficult to measure, he points out that production and soil health have improved on those farms using the methods. Smith says while conversation agriculture could help farmers adapt to climate change, the methods could also act as a carbon sequestration measure, as the grain could capture carbon dioxide and the soil could hold it, as long as it is cov-

In 2006, he and a number of farmers visited Argentina and

ered. He describes this as “almost the only practical solution”

Brazil to study conversation agriculture techniques used there.

to reducing carbon dioxide levels.

Following the visit, the farmers set up a club to exchange lessons on the measures. About four years later with the involvement Grain SA, the group began research trials on the new techniques with the help of the ARC in Potchefstroom.

LandCare Programme making a difference Government is also helping farmers adapt to sustainable farming techniques through the LandCare Programme. Lydia Bosoga, the Director of Land Use at the DAFF, says

Grain SA has also helped sponsor two annual conferences

the programme is run through provincial departments and is

on conservation agriculture (last year’s was sold out) and has

aimed at assisting farmers and smallholders to better maintain

secured the involvement of agri-processing businesses Senwes

natural resources and ensure food security.

and NWK, as well as seed and chemical companies.

The programme also helps create jobs through the hiring of

Grain SA’s Hendrik Smith, who facilitates the association’s

community members for work, such as laying stones for mois-

Conversation Agriculture Farmer Innovation Programme, says

ture retention in soil and fencing off grazing lands. Expanded

the association began promoting the practice about three

Public Works Programme principles are used to source workers

years ago, using farmer-led research and initiatives and fund-

for each initiative.

ing from the Maize Trust.

Resources are drawn from national department (R66.4 million

The association identifies farmer groups that are already do-

has been made available for the programme in 2015/16) and

ing conversation agriculture and then works with them to

from the equitable share that each respective province gets

improve methods and scale the project by linking them with

from National Treasury.

a project team that includes researchers and technical support.

The programme has been in operation since 1997 and Bo-

The idea is that by sharing their experience with other

soga says the department is trying to increase the funding

farmers, the groups will help encourage others to adopt

allocation and partner with other departments.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

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FEATURE

Writers: Nosihle Shelembe and More Matshediso

Rooting out racism,

building a united nation

or South Africa to become a cohesive and racism free

ated with asking what government is doing about the social,

nation, much still needs to be done.

economic and political challenges of our time, but rather ask

To achieve this and help resolve the country’s chal-

what can we all do together to break the spine of these social

lenges, some of which threaten the advancement of democ-

ills that are a menace to stability and advancement of our

racy and stability, South Africans must work hand-in-hand with

relatively young democracy?” Minister Mthethwa noted.

government, says Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa. Government alone cannot resolve some of the country’s

Working towards the dream

age-old complex challenges, said the Minister at a recent con-

South Africa is emerging from a divided past but the country

vention on nation-building, social cohesion and reconcilia-

now has an opportunity to craft a future of common destiny

tion where he was supported by Communications Minister

and single purpose of a united, non-racial, non-sexist, demo-

Faith Muthambi and Minister in The Presidency responsible

cratic and just society that its founders and struggle icons

for Women Susan Shabangu.

envisioned, he pointed out.

Recently the country witnessed incidents of racism on social

“This is the greatest challenge of our era which is calling on

media, political tensions on the issue of statues and place

all of us, black and white, rich and poor, workers and the busi-

names, as well as incidents of racial tensions or conflict in

ness sector, media and government, traditional and religious

institutions of higher learning.

leaders, political parties and youth formations, rural and urban

“It is also a clear reminder that we should not always be fix-

dwellers, young and old, disabled and civil society leaders, to

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

stand together to fulfil our historic mission.

discuss how South Africa can strengthen nation-building

“Perhaps it can be argued that the initial undermining of

and social cohesion.

the role of arts, culture and heritage in favour of the economic and political project of our democracy and nation-

Change in mindsets

building was a fundamentally flawed strategy, as we are now

“Building a non-racial society is not an easy task. It requires

beginning to realise the compelling value of this sector in

a change in mindsets, a willingness to think, to understand

social cohesion, national identity and conciliation,” he added.

the basic dignity of all people and a commitment to equality

Minister Mthethwa said no amount of abstract ideas would resolve South Africa’s problems. The country needs to focus on creative, practical, simple, accessible methods and solu-

and inclusivity in pursuit of a better life for all. “It is not a rosy goal. It is easy to take shortcuts but we need to move beyond anger,” said the Minister. According to struggle icon and social cohesion advocate

tions that will resonate with the masses, he said. “We should have grounded practical strategies and impact-

Sophie Williams-De Bruyn, for the country to realise its real-

ful solutions informed and inspired by societal mobilisation

ity, all South Africans must put their shoulders to the wheel. “We must bring all our races together, no one should be

at different epochs of our struggle for justice. “We may have diverse backgrounds and histories but we

left behind. Those who want to come with us must come.

have a shared country and therefore, a common destiny

We will drag them, pull them and walk with them. Those

and future that we must positively influence and shape.

who want to stay behind will be left on the roadside,” said

Together we can do more, but divided we will always fall

the 77-year-old De Bruyn.

short of assisting this great society realise its true potential.”

She said nation-building and social cohesion are lifetime programmes and the work needs to be carried over from

Getting tough on racism

one generation to the next.

The Minister said he hoped that the enforcement of tighter

De Bruyn said she was glad to see fellow social cohesion

legislation would reduce incidents of discrimination, such

advocates, organisations and teams, as well as many indi-

as racism and hate speech.

vidual South Africans brace themselves to fight and put a

“Racists amongst [us] should feel that they are not welcome. Their racist behaviour has to change because if it doesn't change, something will have to force them to change.

stop to the scourge of racism. She also holds the view that during social cohesion dialogues, all races should be represented and involved. “We should not be making excuses for non-participants

“That’s why in the national action plan, we are looking at closing the gaps in terms of our regulations and laws in the

who may say they are alienated, there is no excuse for not being involved in this,” said De Bruyn.

country. Obviously we have to criminalise hate speech. You need to be clear as well what [hate speech] is because the Constitution is clear. But we need to move beyond the Constitution and deal with this practise so that we deter would-be racists. “It is not good for the nation … to be held to ransom by a few racists amongst us,” Minister Mthethwa said. The Minister also convened a meeting

“Racists amongst [us] should feel that they are not welcome. Their racist behaviour has to change because if it doesn't change, something will have to force them to change.

with social cohesion advocates to

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

Building communities

demning racism and hate speech that deters South

Adding her voice to the burning issue, was Barbara Masekela

Africa from being a united rainbow nation.

who said the lack of social cohesion in South Africa was not only prevalent amongst different races, but also seemed to be growing between people of the same race. Recalling when she was a little girl at her grandmother’s

Retired judge Yvonne Mokgoro reiterated the importance of including the participation of all in society.

house in KwaGuqa in Witbank, Mpumalanga, Masekela said

“We have to ensure that social cohesion and nation-

communities were smaller then, and it was easy to know

building underpin all national, provincial and local

everybody in their area, and families were much closer.

government strategic priorities,” said Mokgoro.

“I think what we see now, this lack of cohesion in societies,

Singer and social activist Simphiwe Dana said over

can be attributable also to the progress of society. We now

the past 21 years, South Africans had not really re-

live in larger communities, and people who live in these

sponded to incidents of racism as they were currently

communities do not originate from the same villages,” said

doing.

Masekela. She acknowledged the diversity in South African communities, which she regards as richness, but at the same time makes it hard for people to feel a sense of belonging to one society. Because of the growing class hierarchy, Masekela said there were also gaps and some distance amongst people of one race. Other advocates said it was time to move beyond just con-

They said it was time to mobilise society and root out racism, starting from a grassroots level.

She was pleased to see how young South Africans were speaking out and marching against issues that affect them. Dana urged social activists to facilitate the process that would see South Africa moving forward in the right direction. She said if South Africa was going to introduce legislation that criminalises racism, people first needed to understand what racism was.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

Photographer: Siya Duda

Hard work, innovation

produces better health services

waiting time for patients seen at the GOPD. He joined Leratong Hospital in 2013 after 30 years in private practice as a gynaecologist and obstetrician. “I also thought it was time to share my knowledge and experience with health professionals in the public sector and the community as a whole,” he explains.

Dr Lubbe says the fi rst three months in parhe Leratong Hospital’s Gynaecology Outpatient De-

ticular were frustrating as he realised there were

partment (GOPD) is a good example of what hard

inefficiencies at the department.

work and innovation can do for the health sector.

The GOPD is considered one of the best obstetrics and

He then made it his mission to reduce the waiting times patients had to contend with.

gynaecology departments in the country after being an-

Patients had to deal with long queues just to

nounced as the overall winner of the Department of Public

make an appointment, a situation which was

Service and Administration’s 13th Annual Centre for Public

complicated by those who arrived without ap-

Service Innovation Awards recently.

pointments and those who were referred to the

Noluthando Mkhize spoke to the Head of the GOPD, Dr Francois Lubbe, about how he and his team achieved the accolade. Leratong Hospital is situated in Krugersdorp and is the

GOPD. “The first patient that I wanted to schedule for a hysterectomy had to wait six months due to fully booked theatre lists.

secondary or level two hospital for the West Rand District,

“This was not taking into account the time that

meaning that patients that need to be referred from local

the patients had to wait for an appointment to

clinics are sent to Leratong.

see a specialist in the first place, which was an

The hospital serves about 1.5 million people and has 855 beds and six beds at the intensive care unit. Dr Lubbe dubs his department as a ‘one-stop shop’ initiated with the aim to improve services, by reducing unnecessary

average of three months.” He points out that at no time did he feel the need to criticise health professionals because in his opinion they were working very hard.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Turning the tide

arrange an appointment at the GOPD without the necessary

Dr Lubbe recalls that when he first joined the

documents.

GOPD, clinic patients were seen twice a week for all gynaecology-related problems. “This created chaos from a booking, staff and space point of view. Nothing is more frustrating

“The number of patients visiting the GOPD is currently restricted to 30 per day, in the two days that the clinic is open a week. We currently considering extending this to three days per week, at 20 patients per day,” says Dr Lubbe.

and depressing for a specialist than entering the

The medical staff at the GOPD consists of a gynaecologist,

GOPD when there are 60 patients staring at you

two medical officers, an intern and nursing staff with each

in anticipation.”

doctor.

He adds that to improve the GOPD unit they worked on a one-stop shop model.

“All patients are seen individually and a history of the patient is taken. The patient is examined in a private cubicle with an

This included patients not being given any ap-

examination couch in it. In the cubicle there is a fully equipped

pointment other than one for surgery or a re-

gynaecology instrument trolley, which has an examination

sonar in six weeks.

lamp, gloves and other hand hygiene products.”

“Such follow up visits would only be for re-sonar

He adds that once the physical examination has been com-

of chronic disease monitoring or be done at pri-

pleted by the medical officer, a preliminary clinical diagnosis

mary health care level.”

is made and recorded together with the patient’s history.

He adds that another measure that was intro-

“Should the medical officer need to consult with a specialist

duced was that all patients visiting GOPD had

gynaecologist during the examination, the specialist will be

to be referred and consultations were arranged

asked to do so immediately for the diagnosis.”

on an appointment basis. This excluded emergencies.

If no additional investigation is required, treatment is prescribed for the patient and collected at the pharmacy.

Dr Lubbe said to avoid wasting time, all referred

“Should a follow-up consultation be necessary at Leratong

patients visiting the GOPD unit must have their

Hospital an appointment date will be provided, but if the single

referral letter and a recent pap smear report, no

visit has been concluded the patient is discharged.”

older than six months. If a patient is HIV positive, they also bring their latest CD4 count results and their ARV medication. “These requirements need to be taken care of at

Dr Lubbe adds if the patients need to be booked for surgery, this is done on the spot. “Two years ago, the waiting period for surgery was six months plus. Currently, we are looking at waiting period of two weeks.”

the local clinic or primary hospital, before visiting

Reducing waiting times

the GOPD, otherwise it results in another GOPD

He says that down referrals, which are when the patients are

appointment which could only be six weeks.

sent back to the clinic or their doctor for further follow up

“This also means another taxi fare for patients and another queue to wait for a file.”

visits, has helped curb long queues. “The down referral is explained in detail to the patient. The

He says his department has, on a continuous

patient must be given a referral letter with the date on it, writ-

basis, communicated with local clinics and gen-

ten in legible handwriting with a signature or preferably with

eral practitioners on what a patient needs when

the doctor’s personal stamp.

visiting the Leratong GOPD. “Some patients still slip through the cracks but do understand the importance of this once it has been explained to them. “Even the administrative clerks are being taught about these requirements and are not likely to

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

“This down referral is not complete without a recommendation for further treatment, including medication and the time period necessary for treatment and medication.” Another factor that contributed to the lengthy queues was, prior to 2013, patients seen at the GOPD had to return to the hospital after a few weeks for abdominal sonars.

FEATURE

Sonar examinations are done to limit or avoid misdiagnosis.

which is noticed by patients. In turn, patients’ con-

“Sonar appointments often had to be rebooked due to

fidence in the hospital and its staff improves.”

other unpredictable circumstances, despite the fact that patients had already paid taxi fare twice and some came from as far as Carletonville.” Dr Lubbe says patients do not need to return for abdominal and vaginal sonars as they are done immediately. He adds that the hospital has also established a transvaginal sonar clinic, which is separate from the GOPD. A transvaginal test is used to look at a woman’s reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and cervix. This clinic attends to patients who are already admitted to the hospital.

He adds that his one-stop shop is still a work in progress with its own hiccups. “It is still a learning curve. The experience and results so far have been promising and certainly an improvement on professional morale and job satisfaction as well as patient care.” The self-proclaimed perfectionist adds that his golden rule is limiting procrastination by attending to the task at hand immediately. “It should be an honour for health professionals to serve their country’s public health system.

“Without further waiting periods, patients requiring sonar

It should not be a stepping stone or a time of

examination are now sent to the sonar clinic where a gynae-

treading water and receiving a respectable re-

cologist will perform the sonar without delay.”

muneration while considering extra mural plans

He adds that usually in public and private hospitals the radiology department performs only abdominal sonars and not vaginal sonars, but this is done at Leratong Hospital.

Working in a well-structured environment Dr Lubbe believes that working in a well-structured environ-

and prospects.” “When I was interviewed for the position of HoD in 2013, I said I would do my best to make Leratong Hospital’s GOPD the best in Gauteng,” he recalls. “I sincerely hope this award will serve as an incentive to achieve even higher levels in the future.”

ment not only reduces stress levels and the frustration expe-

Dr Lubbe also thanked his team for the hard

rienced by doctors and patients but also creates confidence.

work they put in to help make his department a

“It creates an atmosphere of competency and confidence

success.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FEATURE

Writer: Noluthando Mkhize

TB screening

campaign bearing fruit

hen government launched the tuberculosis (TB)

He added that the department was the principal re-

screening campaign last year, it aimed to encour-

cipient of the Global Fund TB Grant of US$ 54 million

age all South Africans – particularly those in mining

(or R483 million) to be used to turn the tide against TB

communities, inmates at correctional facilities and those in early childhood development centres – to be screened and tested for TB. As World TB Day is marked across the globe on 24 March, PSM takes a look at the impact of the campaign. Launched by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, the campaign aims to reduce the number of new infections and related deaths. The massive, three-

in South Africa. “The grant focuses on key under-served people, namely: people infected with MDR-TB, inmates in correctional facilities as well as miners and community members living in areas around the mines, known in this programme as the peri–mining communities. “Non-government organisations have been appointed to implement the grant activities,” he said.

year TB screening programme is similar to the HIV counselling and testing campaign rolled out in 2010. TB is one of the major diseases responsible for illness and mortality worldwide. In South Africa, TB kills 80 per cent of HIV-positive people. TB is responsible for 120 000 deaths annually and, through the campaign, government wants to reduce this number to less than 20 000. Up until December 2015, the Department of Health was able to provide screening to more than 400 000 people living in the six peri-mining districts in South Africa. The districts included Lejweleputswa in the Free State; West Rand in Gauteng, Sekhukhune and Waterberg in Limpopo as well as Bojanala and Dr Kenneth Kaunda in the North West. The department also screened more than 160 000 inmates at 242 Correctional Centres. David Mametja, Head of the TB Control & Management Programme with the Department of Health, said there have been some improvements since the launch of the campaign, however, the provision of TB and HIV care to under-served people is still a challenge.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Peri-mining communities

Correctional centres

Mametja said that in the six peri-mining districts, there are

Mametja said his department was instructed to provide regu-

an estimated 600 000 people. TB screening is done from 12

lar access to TB and HIV screening to about 150 000 inmates

mobile units in the areas.

in 242 correctional centres.

“In addition, the Department of Health supports the

“TB and HIV awareness was enhanced in correctional cen-

Department of Mineral Resources and other statutory

tres. TB screening was done with the use of X-ray and TB

agencies to monitor compliance to applicable laws and

testing machine the Gene Xpert.

regulations in the mining industry. “This includes the requirement for regular screening for TB and HIV and provision of access to treatment for about 400 000 miners in the country.” He also said up until December 2015, his team had provided screening to over 400 000 people in peri-mining districts, which exceeded the target of 360 000 people. “The target was exceeded, indicating the need for a continuation of TB screening services in the peri-mining communities.” He added that the programme received support from local communities and political leadership. Mametja said that from the results of the screening, about 370 people were diagnosed with TB and 341 of them were put on TB treatment in peri-mining areas. “This shows that excellent linkage to care strategies resulted in 92.1 per cent of those diagnosed with TB starting on TB treatment.”

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

“The correctional centres have also been given additional TB data-management capacity-building and infection control systems.” He added that people who were in charge of running correctional centres were also being provided with training on the management of TB and any associated risks. The department set a target of testing over 170 000 inmates, but managed to test over 160 000 inmates.

Working together to do more Mametja added that the partnership between Correctional Services and the Department of Health was a success. “There was sharing of resources between the two departments, ensuring that there is effective implementation of the Global Fund Grant in correctional centres.” “The country will receive a new grant to roll-out these interventions from 1 April 2016 to 31 March 2019.”

The South Africa I know, the home I understand

PLAY YOUR PART IN BUILDING A BETTER SOUTH AFRICA Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) is the government department mandated to collect, analyse and disseminate official statistics. Operating under the auspices of the Statistics Act (Act 6 of 1999), Stats SA provides a range of information on economic (inflation rate, economic growth) and social issues (population size, employment rate) to support evidencebased decision making. In March 2016, Stats SA will conduct the second Community Survey. More than 10 000 staff will be deployed to collect information from 1.3 million homes that have been scientifically selected to represent the entire country. The survey focuses on measurement of access to facilities and services, such as water, sanitation and electricity; measurement of demographic factors such as fertility, mortality and migration; and measurement of socio-economic factors such as employment and poverty statistics. Fieldwork for the main survey will run from 07 March to 22 April 2016. Some households may be visited a second time between 25 April and 13 May 2016, as part of an Evaluation Survey, which is conducted to check the quality of the information collected in the main survey. Community Survey fieldworkers can be identified through official ID cards, which include a hologram image to verify authenticity. The ID card will have the fieldworkers name, surname, ID number and the province that they are working in. This needs to be produced when visiting sampled homes.

ID card

This is the first time that digital devices will be used for data collection at this scale. The use of digital devices will make processing the survey faster; results are expected by the end of June, less than three months after data collection ends. Information will be published at local municipality level, and will provide population and household statistics at municipal level to government, the private sector and other interested parties to support planning and decision-making. From May to September 2016, Stats SA, in conjunction with the Department of Health and the Medical Research Council (MRC), will conduct the South Africa Demographic and Health Survey (SADHS). There are 15 000 selected households which will be visited in the course of this survey, which will collect information that will help government to better understand the health status in South Africa and plan for more effective provision of health services. We ask all public servants to spread the message about these upcoming surveys and appeal to those selected homes to please open their doors to Stats SA’s fieldworkers and answer the questions asked. Quality information is required to ensure that resources are allocated where they are needed and that government spending bears fruit.

Call centre: +27 800 110 248 (toll-free) • Email: CS2016@statssa.gov.za or info@statssa.gov.za • Website: www.statssa.gov.za • Facebook: StatsSA • Twitter: @statssa

FEATURE

*Writer: Stephen Timm

Reaping the rewards of

equity equivalent programmes

ore than 2 000 students have found employment

als through the programme had seen a general increase in

thanks to funding from several multinational

efficiency and effectiveness.

companies as part of their equity equivalent pro-

grammes.

A number of black entrepreneurs have also been assisted through mentoring and training. Multinationals that are unable to sell equity to black part-

“The outcome has been positive given that a vast number of black students completed training and are now employed. Regarding black small enterprises, there has been a significant improvement in their revenue growth levels and creation of employment opportunities,” said Medupe.

ners under the Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment

In addition one equity equivalent programme, run by

(BBBEE) codes because their global practice or policy does

Belgian multinational Hansen Transmissions and aimed at

not permit it, are allowed to use equity equivalent pro-

schools in the North West, has reached over 12 000 learners.

grammes as an alternative, upon approval from the Department of Trade and Industry (dti). The seven multinational companies that have so far had equity equivalent programmes approved by the department have pledged to spend R1 billion over the next few years helping to train students and mentor black entrepreneurs. The dti spokesperson Sidwell Medupe said more than 2 000 students have either been employed by the participating multinationals or other companies in different sectors. He added that black enterprises assisted by multination-

The programme, run since 2010, provides youth and learners with educational material with a special focus on mathematics, science and life skills, as well as facilitating youth participation for creative industries. It is in part funded by the R8.5 million pledged by the Belgian firm to fund the roll-out of an electronic information transmission platform to marginalised communities. “We have seen schools that were underperforming before the programme was installed in their school, reach up to a 90 per cent pass rate,” said Tshamano Lishivha, the manager of the Ulwazi Express programme, which was established by Hansen Transmissions. Lishivha said the programme also assists schools to improve their internet connectivity, build teacher capacity and improve learner performance by providing access to technology, support science and multimedia centres at schools. Teachers are also linked with content experts and educational institutions by means of a mobile network based tele-teaching platform. A key area that the Ulwazi Express will be focusing on is providing supplementary and complementary content to curriculum, as set by the Department of Basic Education, to

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

schools in underdeveloped areas in the North West. In addition the programme also helps facilitate wellness education and awareness in HIV and AIDS, TB, lifestyle diseases and life skills through the community centres. So far just one of the seven equity equivalent programmes has been concluded, that of Swiss multinational Liebherr Africa. Between 2010 and 2014 the company partnered with the Artisan Training Institute (formerly the Ikhaya Fundisa Techniskills Academy) to spend R19.9 million to train 571 black artisans in engineering and technical skills. Gerhard van der Merwe, marketing manager of Artisan Training Institute, which carries out the training, said the artisans received training in areas such as electrical skills, welding, diesel and petrol mechanics and fitting and machining. So far 461 of the students have been placed. Van der Merwe said most of the learners that were placed were still undergoing training. He explained that some of the students were currently involved in their respective communities repairing appliances for free, while others like welders and those who trained as motor mechanics were performing work for local clients. Van der Merwe said the process to accredit the training initiative as an equity equivalent programme took six months. Since the training centre was already accredited by the

million training five to 10 black-owned software companies over seven years.

Mining Qualifications Authority and the Manufacturing and

 Dell, which through its Khulisa academy launched in April,

Engineering Sector Education and Training Authority the

aims to train black university and matric graduates in high-

process went relatively smoothly, he added.

performance computing skills, complemented by business

However, he acknowledged that it took a lot of work to get employers and stakeholders on board.

management and entrepreneurial and life skills. Earlier this year Dell put out an announcement looking for candidates

A number of learners dropped out and as mines were

to sign to take part in the paid-for two-year programme,

retrenching people during the period of training, finding

which is expected to start in 2016. Natasha Reuben, head of

permanent employment for students proved difficult.

transformation at Dell, said the company had been liaising

In addition there was resistance from existing employees at the companies where students were to be placed, as many perceived the placements as a threat to their own job security.

with the department in the finalisation of the curriculum. The aim is to enrol 15 students a year for 10 years.  IBM will spend R700 million over 10 years to assist 74 blackowned IT businesses and provide fully funded bursaries for

The other five multinationals that have had equity equiva-

56 students to pursue an undergraduate Bachelor of Com-

lent programmes approved by the department thus far are:

puter Science degree at Wits University. Over half of the

 HP, which through the HP Business Institute launched IT

planned investment includes the establishment of an IBM

learnerships for black students in 2008.  Microsoft, which has since 2010 pledged to spend R472

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

SA Research Lab. The programme was launched in January 2015. >>

FEATURE

 Turner & Townsend, a UK project management and

opment, critical skills development and research and

consulting firm, will mentor black-owned small firms

development, plus development of black industrialists,

in the construction sector and the energy sector. The

Medupe added.

company’s programme was approved by the department during 2010/11. Two years ago the American Chamber of Commerce in

ties in terms transformation and development,” he said.

South Africa raised concern that the approval of equity

However, Medupe stressed that the department had

equivalent programmes were being held up over disa-

never rejected any application on the basis of value

greements over how to determine the value of com-

determination and the nature of projects proposed.

panies and over the nature of the projects proposed.

Should a multinational wish to continue earning BEE

But Medupe said the amended BBBEE codes were

ownership points on expiry of the period that each eq-

clear on how an equity equivalent programme was

uity equivalent programme is expected to run for (most

determined and the nature of the programme.

are currently set at either seven or 10 years), Medupe

The contribution, he explained, is based on companies committing the equivalent of four per cent of their annual total revenue from South African operations, or 25 per cent of the value. In the case of disagreements on the value of companies an independent valuer is usually employed. To gain approval from the department each project had to focus on areas of enterprise and supplier devel-

“Companies also have to be guided by their relevant line ministries with regard to what are the sector priori-

said the multinational would have to re-apply to continue with the project. To qualify for an equity equivalent programme a multinational must prove that such sale of equity is against their global practice. It must then to submit a proposal for an equity equivalent programmes and a valuation report to the department within 60 days from the date of receiving exemption.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

W W W. O L I V E R AW A R D S . C O . Z A

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HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Reducing the risk of cancer C

ancer is one of the leading causes of death around

certain things we can do to make us less likely to develop

the world. Much can be done to avoid or treat

the disease.

cancer, however. As much as 30 to 40 per cent of

We know, for instance, that exposure to carcinogens

cancers can be prevented through the adoption of certain

(including radiation, smoking and alcohol), a lack of

healthy behaviours. In addition, 30 per cent of cancers can

physical exercise and exposure to certain viruses, such as

actually be cured if they are diagnosed and treated early.

the papilloma virus, may increase the risks of cancer. So

Cancer is the abnormal and uncontrolled multiplica-

avoiding risks and changing certain behaviours may help

tion of cells in the body and is not infectious (it can’t be passed on from person to person). It is usually painless at first and the sufferer is unaware of it. There are many

Tobacco use

different types of cancer and different parts of the body

Tobacco is estimated to kill more than five million people

can be affected. From the cancerous site, the cancer cells

a year and its use, especially smoking, is the single great-

may spread until they affect other parts of the body. This

est known cause of cancer in the world. It can aid the de-

is called metastasis. Some cancers spread quickly while

velopment of cancers of the lung, mouth, throat, stomach,

others may take years to develop.

breast, cervix, pancreas, bowel, kidney and others. If you

It is important for people to be aware of this disease,

don’t smoke, make sure you don’t start and if you do smoke

particularly as early detection and treatment can save

give it up. Studies have shown that giving up smoking can

lives. Many cancers can be treated successfully and even

reduce the risks of cancer and have other important health

cured if they are treated early. If you detect unusual lumps

benefits.

or bumps in your body or have ongoing problems with pain, visit your doctor to ensure that you do not have

Diet and exercise

this disease.

A good diet and regular physical activity can help us to

Protecting yourself from cancer

us to avoid some types of cancer.

maintain our health. Obesity and a lack of physical activity may contribute to the development of a number of different

Aside from protecting ourselves from the sun, which

cancers, including those of the kidney, oesophagus and

can cause skin cancers, what else can we do to protect

colon.

ourselves from other kinds of cancer? In most cases the

Avoiding foods that are high in saturated fats, surgery foods

causes for cancer are unknown but there are certain fac-

and drinks, and charred and fried meats can help. A diet rich

tors that predispose us to certain cancers and there are

in vegetables, fruit and whole grains can help to make us

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

stronger and help prevent cancer.

Research by the International Agency for Research on Can-

Many South Africans enjoy eating a lot of red meat but

cer, part of the World Health Organisation, found that drink-

both red and processed meat consumption are associated

ing alcohol increases the risk of mouth and throat cancer,

with a higher incidence of colon cancer. A number of studies

oesophageal cancer, bowel cancer, liver cancer and female

suggest that diets that are higher in fresh fruits and vegetables

breast cancer.

may assist in reducing the risk for certain types of cancer.

Environmental carcinogens

Often people think that it is only excessive drinking that leads to an increased cancer risk, but even small amounts of alcohol increase cancer risk.

There may be cancer-causing substances, or carcinogens,

While the exact relationship between alcohol and increased

present in our environment that we should try to avoid. We

risk of certain cancers is not fully understood, it has been sug-

may for example be exposed to chemical pollutants such

gested that this apparent correlation manifests in different

as asbestos, which is a known carcinogen. Chemicals such

ways, dependent on the type of cancer.

as dioxins are also toxic and sometimes find their way into our foods. One way to avoid them is to reduce your intake of animal fats. Cellular telephones emit radiation and care should be taken not to talk on them for too long.

Ten tips for reducing your risk of cancer:

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in the manufacture of

•

Eat less salt and sugar

certain plastics and some plastic bottles and is thought to

•

Eat ﬁ ve portions of fresh fruit and vegetables each day

increase the risk of breast cancer in some people. BPA may be released in large quantities if hot liquids are put into certain

•

Exercise and maintain a healthy weight

types of plastic bottles. It is therefore wise to avoid putting

•

Use a high sun protection factor sunscreen on exposed skin daily

hot liquids in plastic bottles and to check that your baby's bottles are BPA free.

•

Try to stay out of the sunlight between 10am and

Infections

•

Do not use tobacco products

Some infectious diseases can either cause cancer or increase

•

Avoid alcohol

the risk of cancer. For example, the human papillomavirus

•

Find out whether you have a family history of can-

cause cancer of the liver. The helicobacter pylori bacteria,

•

Go for regular health screenings

meanwhile, may increase the risks of stomach cancer. Infec-

•

Check your breasts or testicles for lumps frequently,

3pm

(HPV) can cause cervical cancer while hepatitis B and C may

tions such as these can be avoided and some can also be vaccinated against.

Alcohol

cer and discuss this with your doctor

and monitor moles for changes in shape, colour or size. While these tips can, to a certain extent, reduce your risks of developing some types of cancer, it

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CAN-

is important to realise that cancer can strike even

SA), there is evidence that alcohol use has a proven link to a

the healthiest person and at any age. It is therefore

number of different cancers and that even a moderate level

essential to remain vigilant when it comes to your

of alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing an

health and discuss any changes you may notice with

alcohol-related cancer.

a healthcare professional.

No amount of alcohol consumption is safe in terms of cancer although, according to CANSA, there is sufficient scientific evidence to suggest that the level of cancer risk increases in line with the amount of alcohol consumed.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Supplied by: Government Employees Medical Scheme.

PUBLIC SECTOR APPOINTMENTS

Compiled by: Irene Naidoo

Jeoffrey Matshoba Executive: Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS), Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) Jeoffrey Matshoba holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Business Management from the University of South Africa. He has 25 years’ experience in aviation and has served in various management positions within ATNS. Matshoba is also an extensively trained air traffic controller. In 2009, he was appointed as a Senior Manager responsible for regulatory oversight in the critical areas of Air Traffic Services; Aeronautical Information Service (AIS); CNS and procedure design services at the South African Civil Aviation Authority . He rejoined ATNS in 2012. In 2014, Matshoba was nominated by the Department of Transport to champion the implementation of the Southern African Development Community Upper Airspace Management Centre. He has also represented South Africa at various international aviation forums. Matshoba will be leading the strategic planning of ATM, CNS systems and infrastructure at the ATNS.

Garry Jason Pita Group Chief Financial Officer, Transnet Garry Jason Pita has been appointed Transnet’s Group Chief Financial Officer as of 1 February 2016. Pita will join the Board of Directors and will report to the acting Group Chief Executive. His appointment was made by Transnet’s Board of Directors in consultation with its executive authority, the Minister of Public Enterprises. Pita is a chartered accountant with over 10 years of service at Transnet. He has led key strategic aspects of its finance function. His responsibilities included heading up the International Financial Reporting Standards Conversion and he was Head: Group Internal Control. Before being appointed to the current position as Group Chief Financial Officer, he was General Manager: Business Services, where he was responsible for ICT and Procurement. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and an Honours degree in Accounting from Wits University. Pita will lead all aspects of the company’s financial strategy, including overseeing the company’s funding and capital investment programmes, managing procurement, financial risks and adherence to the highest standards of governance and internal controls. Pita, who succeeds Anoj Singh who joined Eskom last year, has been acting Group Chief Financial Officer since Signh left Trasnet.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FOOD AND WINE

Writer: Nicholas Francis

Easter treats

aster treats are always better when they are homemade.

•

1/4 cup caster (or castor) sugar

So gather the kids and let them join in on the fun. PSM

•

1 1/2 tsps mixed spice

has put together some great ideas that will make Easter

•

Pinch of salt

•

1 1/2 cups currants

•

300ml milk

•

2 eggs, lightly beaten.

all the more special.

Chocolate cornﬂake cakes This one is for the kids. Ingredients

Flour paste

• 50g butter

•

1/2 cup plain flour

• 100g milk or dark chocolate, broken into chunks

•

4 to 5 tbsp water.

• 3 tbsp golden syrup • 100g cornﬂ akes

Glaze

• Speckled eggs to decorate.

•

1/3 cup water

•

2 tbsp caster (or castor) sugar.

Method 1. Put the butter, chocolate and golden syrup in a saucepan or microwavable bowl. Put the cornflakes in an-

Combine flour, yeast, sugar, mixed spice, salt and cur-

other large bowl. *The children will love helping you

rants in a large bowl. Melt butter in a small saucepan

with weighing out the ingredients. Older children

over medium heat. Add milk. Heat for one minute or until

can do this by themselves with supervision and little

lukewarm. Add warm milk mixture and eggs to currant

ones can help to pour or spoon ingredients into the

mixture. Use a flat-bladed knife to mix until dough almost

weighing scales.

comes together. Use clean hands to finish mixing to form

2. Melt the butter, chocolate and golden syrup in the saucepan over a low heat or briefly in the microwave.

a soft dough.

Allow to cool a little before pouring over the corn-

Step 2

flakes.

Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for 10

3. Stir the ingredients together gently using a wooden

minutes, or until dough is smooth. Place into a lightly

spoon. Spoon the mixture into 12 cupcake cases ar-

oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap. Set aside in a warm,

ranged on a muffin tray (or baking sheet, if you don’t

draught-free place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until dough

have one). *Get the children involved in this part.

doubles in size.

Grown ups will need to do this for younger children or simply arrange on a tray and let the mess happen.

Step 3

Put in the fridge to set.

Line a large baking tray with non-stick baking paper.

Hot cross buns

Step 1

Punch dough down to its original size. Knead for 30 seconds on a lightly floured surface until smooth. Divide into

Ingredients

12 even portions. Shape each portion into a ball. Place

•

4 cups plain flour

balls onto a lined tray, about 1cm apart. Cover with plas-

•

2 x 7g sachets dried yeast

tic wrap. Set aside in a warm, draught-free place for 30

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

minutes or until buns double in size. Preheat oven to

Easter biscuits

190°C or 170˚C fan-force.

Ingredients For the dough

Step 4

• 200g softened butter

Make the flour paste: Mix flour and water together in a

• 150g castor sugar

small bowl until smooth, adding a little more water if

• 2 large free-range egg yolks

paste is too thick. Spoon into a small zip-lock bag. Snip

• 400g plain ﬂ our, plus extra for ﬂ ouring

off 1 corner of bag. Pipe flour paste over tops of buns

• 1 level tsp mixed spice

to form crosses. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until buns

• 1 level tsp ground cinnamon

are cooked through.

• 2-4 tbsp milk.

Step 5

Icing

Make the glaze: Place water and sugar into a small

• 1-2 tsps lemon juice

saucepan over low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring

• 250g icing sugar

to the boil. Boil for 3-4 minutes. Brush warm glaze over

• About 2 tbsp cold water

warm hot cross buns. Serve warm or at room tempera-

• Diﬀ erent coloured food colouring.

ture.

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C. Lightly grease two baking trays lined with baking parchment. 2. Measure the butter and sugar into a bowl and beat together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk. Sieve in the flour and spices and add enough milk to give a fairly soft dough. Bring together, using your hands, to make a soft dough. 3. Halve the mixture and set half to one side. 4. For the traditional currant biscuits, add the currants to the remaining half of the mixture and knead it lightly on a lightly floured work surface. Roll out to a thickness of about 5mm (¼in). Cut into rounds using a circular cutter. Place on the prepared baking trays. Sprinkle with caster sugar.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until pale golden-brown. Keep a careful eye on the biscuits - it doesn’t matter if you open the oven door to check. Sprinkle with caster sugar and lift onto a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container. 6. For the iced biscuits, knead the remaining half of the biscuit dough mixture lightly on a lightly fl oured work surface. Roll out to a thickness of 5mm (¼in). Cut out Easter biscuits using an assortment of shaped cutters, such as bunnies, Easter eggs, chicks, and spring flowers. 7. Lightly grease two baking trays lined with baking parchment. 8. Place the biscuit shapes on the prepared baking trays and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. Remove from the oven and lift on to a wire rack to cool.

9. To make the icing, pass one teaspoon of lemon juice through a fine sieve, to remove any pips or bits. Mix the icing sugar with the lemon juice, and then add about two tablespoons of water, adding it little by little until you have a relatively stiff but smooth icing. Add a splash more sieved lemon juice if necessary. 10.Divide the icing into separate bowls and mix in food colourings of your choice into the separate bowls of icing, until you achieve the desired shade. 11.Spoon a little icing into a piping bag and pipe your decorations onto the biscuits. For a smooth finish, you can pipe the outline of your design in the firmer icing, then slacken it down a bit by mixing in a little more water, giving the icing more of a runny consistency, and use this to fill in the designs.

images: Shutterstock Public Sector Manager • March 2016

NICE TO HAVES

Writer: Gilda Narsimdas

Make the most of your work-out

1 etting in shape is by far the most common New Year’s resolution. So if you’re on a mission to get into

shape this year, we’ve asked health and fitness blogger at FABUFIT, Wardah Hartley, to share her top must-haves for gym to help you on your way.

Topping the list is a good pair of cross trainers. Whether you’re hitting the treadmill or ready for a studio work-

out, think feet first. Women’s 5.0 TR Fit sneaker, Nike, R1 199; Men’s Flex Range 2015, Nike, R999. 2

Pop all your essentials in this trendy Tog Bag from Puma, Totalsports, R549.

Get your heart rate up by jumping rope. These jump ropes are available from Mr Price Sport, R79.99, while the digital

jump pope is R99.99. 4

It’s important to do stretching exercises a couple of times a week. Get help with this Yoga Sportmate Mat, Dischem, R179.99.

Monitor your work-outs with this Fitbit Flex watch, available at various stores. This one from Superbalist.com, R1 249.

Ladies, get some vital support with this ladies sprint crop, Country Road, R399.

Keep your momentum going with some

music using these Skullcandy Ink’d 2.0 ear bud earphones, Musica, R249.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

FINANCIAL FITNESS

Writer: Maya Fisher-French

Merging

your finances expenses – should you have a

ance whilst the other pays for groceries

joint bank account, a house-

and utility bills. This arrangement only

hold credit card or just keep a

really works if you have sat down and

running tab?

The joint bank account

to know realistically what groceries cost each month and what you expect to pay

Some couples may consider a

for electricity and water. It is not un-

joint bank account. While this

common to hear arguments between

may seem the easiest, most

spouses about their expensive food/

practical solution, it can be

drink tastes!

an administrative nightmare

worked out a proper budget. You need

should a spouse die, as there

The household bank account

is no such thing as a “joint” ac-

Then there is the household bank ac-

count. In South Africa there is

count. In many cases, when a couple

only one option, with a main

gets married, they already have their

account holder whose spouse

own bank accounts along with a rela-

hen you get married, it’s

has signing rights. This means that if the

tionship with their bank and their own

not just your hearts that

main account holder dies, the account

credit history. So it makes sense to keep

become one, but also your

is frozen, along with all the money to

banking the way you did, but then form

pay the bills.

a household bank account where each

money.

Even if you and your spouse are one of

spouse deposits funds at the beginning

those financially independent couples

The running tab

where ‘his is his’ and ‘hers is hers’, when

Some couples work with the “running

you live together, raise children togeth-

tab”. If you decide to keep your finances

The household credit card

er and hopefully retire together, there is

separate, then you need to have an ar-

Finally, you could use a joint credit card,

an inevitable merging of finances.

rangement as part of your monthly

which would save on bank fees, but

On a really practical, day-to-day

budget as to who covers which ex-

please remember to put the money in

level, you need to figure out how you

penses. For example, one spouse could

at the beginning of the month, and to

are going to pay for all those shared

pay the bond/rent and household insur-

keep a low credit facility.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

of the month.

ADVERTORIAL

Offshore exploration Minister Pandor launches marine research and exploration forum, marking the successful implementation of one of Operation Phakisa’s initiatives.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor,

associations and other private sector stakeholders.

launched the South African Marine Research and

President Jacob Zuma launched Operation Phakisa in

Exploration Forum (SAMREF), an initiative to exploit research

2014 and the launch marks the successful implementation

opportunities in offshore oil and gas exploration in South

of Operation Phakisa B3 (exploiting the broader research

Africa.

opportunities presented by offshore oil and gas exploration).

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the

The first phase of Operation Phakisa focused on the

Offshore Petroleum Association of South Africa (OPASA)

blue economy and aimed to unlock the potential of our

signed a memorandum of understanding to establish

country’s vast marine resources. With 3 000km of coastline,

SAMREF.

South Africa is a major maritime nation. We live close to water and look to the sea, estuaries and rivers for food, jobs,

The Forum will enhance cooperation between the

energy, transport, recreation and tourism.

public and private sectors and improve the exchange of information and data on a voluntary basis between all

Unlocking marine resources has the potential to increase its

stakeholders. Its daily activities will be managed through

contribution to South Africa’s GDP by more than

a secretariat established within the National Research

R20-billion over five years. The four critical focus areas of

Foundation (NRF), one of the DST’s entities.

Operation Phakisa are marine transport and manufacturing, offshore oil and gas exploration, aquaculture, and marine

SAMREF will include representatives from government, stateowned enterprises, research institutions, oil and gas industry

protection services and governance.

environments on Earth. The Benguela Current, off our west coast, supports large quantities of fish, while the Agulhas Current, off our east coast, has a smaller quantity of fish, but a greater diversity of species. OPASA Chairperson, Sean Lunn, said both corporate and public citizens of South Africa had an opportunity to add tangible value to South Africa’s marine infrastructure, protection services and ocean governance. “This is achieved through fostering good relations and partnership programmes, such as those being driven through SAMREF, and growing the public sector’s research database on the marine and oceanic environment. This is a step in the right direction for understanding the offshore environment in which we operate, and provides a research conduit that drives policy and precision in decision making and strengthens capabilities in effective mitigation strategies, based on the best available science.” Dr Andrew Kaniki, the Executive Director of Knowledge Fields Development at the NRF said, “This is an opportunity Speaking at the launch in Cape Town, Minister Pandor

for the public and private sectors in South African marine

said the South African coastal and marine environment

research to work together and utilise the resources

are one of our most important assets. “It plays a major

generated by offshore oil and gas exploration. We, as the

role in regulating our climate, has tremendous natural

NRF, are pleased to be the managing agency of this great

biodiversity and supports numerous communities through

initiative.”

fishing, tourism and mining.” The establishment of SAMREF will facilitate new The Minister added that government’s priority now – in the

collaborative offshore studies that will increase South

current global economic crisis – was to promote better

Africa’s state of knowledge of the offshore marine

cooperation between business and government. “Business

environment, the benefits of renewable energy, marine

and government need to work together to increase South

biodiversity and ecology, climate change and ecosystem

Africa’s gross expenditure on research and development

functioning, and it will go some way towards mitigating

from the current 0,7% of GDP to 1,5% by 2019. While the

the policy conflict between developing the oil and gas

target is ambitious, we are committed to achieving it,”

sector and the development of a low-carbon economy.

said the Minister. It will also increase opportunities for publically funded The whole of South Africa’s coast – from the coral reefs of

research institutions and individuals to gather data and

the Indian Ocean to the rich kelp forests of the Atlantic – is

information that will allow better informed management

one of the richest and most biologically diverse marine

decisions relating to the marine ecosystem.

Contact details: CSIR Campus, Building no. 53, South Gate Entrance, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria (012) 843 6300 www.dst.gov.za

Writer: Itumeleng Motuba

CAR REVIEWS

Petrol, diesel or

hybrid?

e live in an era in which we are all trying to do what is best for our planet, be it trying to save resources or reducing our carbon footprint.

Environmentally friendly is all the rage and with the current

economic climate, it really is a much-needed bonus if we can save money while we are saving the world. In the motor manufacturing industry the petrol car now has fierce competition as diesel and hybrid cars are gaining popularity amongst consumers because, honestly, the idea of saving money on fuel is extremely appealing. So is there really much of a difference between the three and what are the pros and cons of each one? We took to the road in three very different cars, namely the Audi Q3 as our petrol car, the BMW 320d as the diesel and the Infiniti Q50 as our hybrid, to try and answer these questions.

Pros:

Each of the three cars has its advantages and disadvantages,

There are fewer hassles with the petrol car, as everyone in

so ultimately it comes down to the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal preference.

the world seems to know how it works. Petrol cars are still

Petrol: Audi Q3 1.4-litre turbo, 110kW

cheaper than both diesels and hybrids, less costly to maintain and still perform better than their counterparts. In most cases,

The Q3 is an extremely comfortable car. It is spacious and drives like

petrol-fuelled cars are cheaper to service and their parts are

a dream, particularly the inner city and long distances. Needless

easily obtained and affordable. All of these factors combined

to say, it comes with all the bells and whistles that an Audi offers.

make the Q3 appealing.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Cons: The Q3 has a higher carbon footprint in comparison to the diesel and hybrid cars and leaves more waste products. In a nutshell, it

worlds. Needless to say, the Infiniti Q50 hybrid has the biggest

is less environmentally friendly than its counterparts.

engine of the three cars, but how did it fare?

Diesel: BMW 320d 2 litre, 140KW

Pros:

There is just something about a BMW that makes it stand out.

Hybrid cars have a way of teaching you to drive efficiently as

The 320d has class and finesse and such sophistication, that you

the aim after all is to save petrol. What we dread about both

cannot help but fall in love with it at first drive. It gently hums

petrol and diesel is how they guzzle in the city, while the

as BMW managed to quieten down the roaring diesel engine.

hybrid, on the other hand, loves the city. Their Environmental

Pros:

Protection Agency mileage ratings are actually higher in the city than they are on the highway. There is no need to heat

It is definitely great on the pocket as an equivalent engine in petrol

up this car when you start it, as it is ready to go as soon as you

would be a thirsty beast, leaving a nice little dent in your budget.

turn on the ignition. One of the neat things about a hybrid is

Since diesel takes some time to burn, it lasts longer, meaning the

that the petrol engine is not running when you have stopped

fuel also lasts longer, resulting in 20 to 30 per cent better fuel

or driving slowly. The result is that you are putting less wear

economy. Diesel-powered cars usually come with turbo, which

on your engine.

is never a bad thing. You get more torque and diesel cars do not depreciate as quickly as petrol cars.

Cons:

Cons: The price for hybrids is increasing as the petrol price rises. You clearly save more the slower you drive, but who wants to drive

Diesel has now caught up to petrol in price. Diesel cars are much

at 60 km/h on the highway? The maintenance on the hybrid

pricier. Some have lag time when you accelerate as it takes a few

is more expensive and they are also costly to fix.

seconds before the car accelerates. They are slower than petrol cars and their repairs can be expensive.

Hybrid: Infiniti Q50 hybrid 3.5 litre, 261 KW Here is a quick 101 on what a hybrid is. We are all familiar with petrolpowered cars, and most people have heard about or seen electric cars. A hybrid car is a combination of the two. It contains parts of both petrol and electric vehicles in an attempt to get the best of both

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Writer: Gilda Narsimdas

GROOMING AND STYLE

Fashionable

in prints P

rints made a big splash on the fashion scene in 2015 with psychedelic, animal and Aztec 2

patterns seen on almost every catwalk. It’s been

predicted that this colourful trend will continue in 2016. We’ve rounded up some stylish prints you can add to

your wardrobe to help you remain on trend. It’s easy to team these selections with a basic or classic wardrobe item you already have.

1. 2.

5. 6. 7.

We love this soft, easy-to-wear crepe blouse from H&M for R229. This patterned cotton cardigan from H&M for R299 will pair well with black pants for an office look or blue denims for a more casual feel. Prints aren’t just for key wardrobe items. Opt for a printed accessory like this floral purse by New Look @ Superbalist.com for R299 to make a statement. How gorgeous is this multi-coloured printed dress from the Karen Millen collection at Forever New? We especially love the addition of gold with these summer shades. It’s priced at R3 300. Add some catwalk style to your casual or formal look with this brown blazer by Mango, available on Spree.com for R1 549. Also available at Spree.com is this Lily & Rose cherry blossom printed multi-coloured scarf. Available for R99. These Aldo sandals will complete any outfit with with soft printed shades. They are part of the Ibenema collection and available from Spree.com for R899.

7 6

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

9 8

Guys needn’t be afraid of prints as they are no longer regarded as feminine. It really is how you wear them. This red printed t-shirt from H&M for R199 is perfect with a pair of light-coloured shorts or jeans.

CSquared by Carducci is always fresh and trendy, like this tie-dyed multi-coloured bowtie. Add this with a matching pocket square to your dark or light coloured suit for your next occasion. At Zando.com for R169.

10. Instead of basic colours, try this funky windbreaker style jacket from H&M for R399. 11. If you’re feeling adventurous and want a different timepiece, we would suggest this Adidas snake print leather strap,

black watch available from Zando.com for R2 699. 12. Add this floral Jack & Jones snapback to your collection – available from Superbalist.com for R279. 13

A great his and hers idea are these cool Nike Air Max sneakers from Superbalist.com. The blue Air Max 1 is traditional with the addition of the print, priced at R1 399, while the black Jacquard version of the Air Max 90 has a distinctive style and is priced at R1 599.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

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TRAVEL

Writer: Sam Bradley

n the ambition-filled world we live in it’s easy to get sucked into a goalorientated mentality - a mindset where

the destination becomes more important than the journey. To counter this, PSM ex-

plores some of South Africa’s most spectacular journeys - routes that will force us to slow down, smell the daisies, appreciate the scenery and just enjoy the ride. Over the next two months, we will take a closer look at the six most memorable and spectacular road trips our magnificent country has to offer. So, in no particular order, here are the road trips that every South African should have on their bucket list.

Best of the Cape

Table Mountain. Adventurers make their way along the

The best of the Cape isn't a specific or separate route, but

False Bay coastline, passing through the towns of Muizen-

rather a combination of roads that every South African

berg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town. The road hugs

should drive on at some point in their lives. It’s worth

the coastline all the way and a rest break at the famous

noting that this route can be changed or shortened as

Brass Bell pub and restaurant in Kalk Bay is recommended.

needed, although it would be best experienced over at

After rounding Cape Point (the famous meeting point of

least four or five days so as to have plenty of time to fully

the Atlantic and Indian oceans), the journey continues

savour the sights.

along the Atlantic Seaboard, passing through Noordhoek

The route starts in the heart of Cape Town, in the CBD

and Hout Bay as well as the trendy Clifton and Camps Bay

and Waterfront area and beneath the watchful gaze of

beaches. This road includes the tolled road of Chapman’s

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

Peak Drive, described by many as the most beautiful stretch of road in the world. Leaving the city behind, the route now heads into the picturesque winelands of Stellenbosch, where there are plenty of great spots to stop at for some wine tasting and a meal. The road then leads merrily over the Helshoogte Pass and on to Franschhoek, where some chocolate tasting and viewing of the historic sites of the French Huguenots may be in order. Some visitors to the Cape only travel as far as Franschhoek, which is a pity as the Franschhoek Pass leading over to Villiersdorp offers magnificent views out over the valley. The route then passes through the beautiful apple farming regions of Villiersdorp, Vyeboom and Grabouw after which you arrive in Gansbaai and Hermanus. These towns are famous shark cage diving and whale watching sites respectively, so it may be wise to pause here to admire these creatures of the deep at close range. From here the weary traveller can start heading back to Cape Town, taking in the magnificent coastal road

be excluded as it finishes in Lesotho but seeing as this road trip is such an iconic one and it is almost completely based in South Africa, we felt that it had to be included.

past Betty’s Bay, Rooi Els and Gordon’s Bay. This road

Originally an old mule trail, the Sani Pass Route has now become

follows the False Bay coastline, with many seal spotting

a must-do item on every 4X4 enthusiat's list. It starts just past the

sites as well as places to stop for a swim or picnic. Once

small towns of Underberg and Himeville deep in the KwaZulu-

completed, the adventurer can look back on a route

Natal Midlands. Tourists pass through the South African border

that offers glimpses of many of the different landscapes

control point at the bottom of the pass, where officials will

of the Cape, from ocean to city to vineyard to orchard.

stamp passports and may also make sure that the vehicles are

For those from other provinces, the next holiday to

roadworthy. Both the South African and Lesotho border posts are

the Cape should probably include a rental car and a

open from 6am to 6pm. From here drivers wind their way along

few days set aside to explore these routes and towns.

the 9km gravel route into the Drakensberg Mountains, climbing 1 332 metres in elevation during this time. Visitors are treated to

Sani Pass

stunning scenery out over the green Midlands and as the road

Another spectacular road trip is along the magnificent

gets higher and higher, the views out over the Khomozana Valley

Sani Pass Route. Some may argue that this route should

get more and more spectacular.

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

TRAVEL

Drivers will need to exercise caution on this route, as the road

Mighty conquerors of the pass can then enjoy a drink or a

has many sharp switchbacks with no safety rails protecting ve-

meal at the Sani Mountain Lodge, which boasts being the

hicles from the steep drops below. There are plans for the road

highest pub in Africa at 2 876 metres above sea level. The

to be tarred by 2019 but the road is currently still gravel so only

stunning scenery, adrenaline and feeling of achievement all

4X4 vehicles are allowed by South African law (although guests

combine to make this one of the most popular road trips

will probably notice mules carrying loads as well as numerous

in South Africa.

minibus taxis on the pass). Heavy fog can quickly sweep over the mountain and reduce visibility, and in winter there may also

The Garden Route

be ice and snow to contend with.

The famed Garden Route, so named because its diversity of

Despite the challenges (some may say because of the chal-

flora and fauna is said to resemble the Garden of Eden, needs

lenges), Sani Pass is arguably the most popular pass in South

little introduction. Many people have travelled to South Af-

Africa. The entire route is incredibly beautiful and there are also

rica specifically to enjoy the sights and stay in some of the

plenty of stop-over points where photos can be taken. The thrill

charming coastal towns that make up the Garden Route.

of getting to the top, where you’ll officially leave South Africa

Many argue that the Garden Route starts all the way in

and enter Lesotho, only adds to the feeling of achievement

Cape Town, but we will stick to the stricter definition of the

(note that there is a road tax payable at the Lesotho office).

route and begin our journey in Mossel Bay, a charming town best known for some of its spectacular golf courses. Not far away is the town of George, a medium-sized town about four hours drive from Cape Town. The town is sheltered by the towering Outeniqua Mountains; a large reason the area boasts the second most temperate climate in the world, with temperatures rarely registering below 10C or over 28C. Moving further up the east coast of the country, the next stop is the picturesque Victoria Bay, a beautiful bay tucked away with only a few holiday homes and a campsite that is well used over the holiday season. Vic Bay (as it’s known to the locals) used to be a favourite with the children due to the Outeniqua Choo-choo steam train which used to run past the bay. Even though that is no longer in operation, the bay is still very popular with surfers due to its good waves and families with little ones because of the tidal pool. A hop and a skip further along the coast are the laidback and friendly towns of Wilderness and Sedgefield. Both have magnificent beaches that are near-deserted for most of the year, as well as the lakes, lagoons, rivers and forests that make it a nature-lover’s playground. Bird lovers will be pleased to know that the Wilderness National Park boasts 262 species of bird. Due to favourable wind conditions, the area is also a favourite for paragliders. Next on the itinerary is the trendy town of Knysna. With the iconic Knysna Heads sandstone cliffs providing a great lookout point over the town, the lagoon and forest only add to the natural beauty. >>

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

TRAVEL

Knysna is the place to see and be seen, and during events

metamorphosis, a long and perfect wave which attracts

such as the oyster festival and the annual marathon the

surfers from all over the planet. The town also hosts the

town is always full.

annual Billabong Pro surfing competition for the world's

Another trendy town with plenty of restaurants and

top 40 surfers. The perfect way to soak up the atmosphere

nightlife options is Plettenberg Bay. It’s best avoided dur-

is by spending a few nights at Island Vibe Backpackers, and

ing November, when school learners celebrating the end

making sure to find time to try the surfing lessons, sand

of their exams descend on the town, but for the rest of

boarding, beach horse-rides and sampling some of the

the year it is a beautiful retreat with plenty of beaches to

cake and coffee shops in town.

enjoy. Animal lovers will also want to visit the elephant

Drive up the coast for another hour to get to the city

sanctuary, Monkeyland and the Birds of Eden. The Tsit-

of Port Elizabeth, which marks the end of the Garden

sikamma National Park lies to the north of Plettenberg

Route. Known as the Friendly City and the Windy City,

Bay. Boasting 80km of rocky coastline and tropical forest,

both for good reason, Port Elizabeth also has some very

Tsitsikamma is an unspoilt paradise. The villages of Nature’s

good beaches on offer. Those wanting to extend their road

Valley and Storms River are both along this stretch and

trip a little further can visit some of the malaria- free game

are worth a visit, while the attractions within the park

reserves close to Port Elizabeth, such as Addo Elephant

include biking, visiting the famous old tree and doing a

Park and Shamwari Game Reserve.

zip-line tour through the treetops. Hikes include various

The N2 highway makes for easy driving, and the route

day routes through the forest, as well as the famous five-

passes through enough scenic forests, lookout points,

day Otter Trail hike along the coast. The Bloukrans Bridge,

lakes, rivers and coastlines to keep even the most restless

just past the Tsitsikamma Forest, boasts the world’s largest

passengers thoroughly entertained.

commercial bridge bungee jump at 216 metres in height.

With the recent fall of the rand, South Africans will be well

The last town on the route is Jeffreys Bay, previously

advised to look local before booking any overseas trips.

a sleepy coastal town that has been transformed into

And with all of these great routes right on our doorsteps,

a surfer’s paradise. Supertubes is the reason for this

why bother looking any further. Happy road tripping!

Public Sector Manager • March 2016

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAG

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