PSM September 2020

Page 1

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER SEPTEMBER 2020

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Excelling at epidemiology Wellington Maru battles diseases with data

Honouring the calling Striving for Public Service excellence

SEPTEMBER 2020

PSM


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Contents:

September 2020 the economy by being more

REGULARS

deliberate in their spending International relations

FEATURES

urges public servants to

approve a new vision and

rededicate themselves to their

implementation plan for the

18 Improved governance

calling

region

10 From the Union Buildings

22

President Cyril Ramaphosa

46

Vision 2050: SADC leaders

needed on COVID-19

14

Conversations with leaders Public Service and

52

Administration Minister Senzo

initiatives

The first audit report into

In other news

government’s key COVID-19

News you need to know when

initiatives has highlighted the

you are on the go

need for better oversight

Mchunu explains what it takes to be the ideal public servant

42

54

Provincial focus

North West avoids COVID-19 surge

22

rich heritage

Our unique heritage defines our cultural identity and

68

Focus on women

70

Financial fitness

shapes our national character

How to say no to burnout 26

Opinion

Deputy Minister of Tourism

Know your rights when it

Fish Mahlalela explores what

comes to chargebacks

lies ahead for SA’s tourism

32

sector 32

COVID-19 contact tracing goes high tech

The COVID Alert SA app strengthens the fight against

30 Trailblazer

Preserving South Africa’s

Epidemiologist Wellington

COVID-19 through digital

Maruma is on the frontlines of

contact tracing

the COVID-19 battle in North West 42

Profiles in leadership

Proudly SA CEO Eustace Mashimbye says public servants can contribute to

2

38

Govt strengthens fight against GBVF

Cabinet has approved three new Bills to help deal with the second pandemic confronting the country

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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Opinion

Why SA needs de-

50

Opinion

GCIS Director-Gen-

62

Promoting

Public Sector Manager THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

indigenous

liberate and radical

eral Phumla Williams

action to develop an

says accurate, use-

inclusive language

ful and up-to-date

that promotes gen-

information is vital to

to services, govern-

der equality.

countries’ COVID-19

ment departments

mitigation strategies

must intensify their

78

language use

To ensure citizens have greater access

Publishers: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Enquiries: +27 012 473 0010 Switchboard: +27 012 473 0000 Tshedimosetso House: 1035 Francis Baard Street (corner Festival Street), Hatfield, Pretoria Private Bag X745, Pretoria, South Africa, 0001 www.gcis.gov.za Director-General Phumla Williams

use of indigenous

Acting Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Keitu Semakane

languages 64

Acting Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Michael Currin

Local government must capitalise on

Acting Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Tyrone Seale

4IR

Municipalities Head of Editorial and Production Tyrone Seale tyrone@gcis.gov.za

must develop the skills and capacity to adopt

Managing Editor Ongezwa Mogotsi ongezwa@gcis.gov.za

new technology to

News Editor Irene Naidoo

improve service

Contributors More Matshediso Silusapho Nyanda Jauhara Khan

delivery

GCIS Photographic Unit Elmond Jiyane Ntswe Mokoena Siyabulela Duda Kopano Tlape Busisiwe Malungwane

LIFESTYLE 72

Health and well-being

Tips to deal with divorce

76

Grooming and style

78

Food and wine

82

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Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

In the face of COVID-19, we salute the work of public servants

T

he quick thinking

and the adoption of vari-

and innovation

ous alternative medicine

from many of

collection and delivery

of one of the greatest

strategies.

modern-day public

South Africa’s public serv-

ants have helped the na-

These everyday

impact people’s lives. This year, on the back

crises, we need to salute

tion weather the global

measures to ensure that

those men and women

coronavirus pandemic.

services are rendered

who continue to rise to

People used to doing

without compromising ef-

the challenges pre-

things in a routine way

forts to curb the virus are

sented by the pandemic.

had to suddenly find cre-

complemented by more

This includes the frontline

ative solutions to enable

significant breakthrough

workers who risk their

the continued delivery of

innovations, such as the

health to carry out their

essential services against

development of South

duties and the innova-

the backdrop of a highly

African-made ventilators.

tors who continue to get

contagious, little-known

This month Government

the job done despite the

disease.

launched the COVID-19

odds.

Minister in t he Presidency, Jac kson Mt hembu.

With your passion and

Alert South Africa Ap-

At the start of our fight

response by the public

plication to enhance

against the COVID pan-

turned the tide on the

sector is evident across

our capacity for COVID

demic, there were legiti-

virus.

all sectors, from innova-

19 disease surveillance

mate outcries from our

Now, while remaining

tions in the payments of

and support our digital

public servants, particu-

alert to the possibilities of

social grants to prevent

contact tracing efforts in

larly our frontline workers,

a second surge of infec-

crowding, to user-friendly

order to prevent a sec-

regarding the non-availa-

tions and the need to

platforms for mass com-

ond wave of infections.

The remarkable

dedication, we have

bility of Personal Protec-

remain vigilant, we must

Public Service Month,

tive Equipment (PPE). We

turn our attention to cre-

learning solutions.

celebrated annually in

are now happy to report

ating an enabling envi-

Healthcare innovations

September, serves as

that government has

ronment for our economy

included greater quanti-

a reminder of what it

done everything in its

and our people to grow

ties of medicine being

means to serve commu-

power, working with trade

and thrive.

dispensed, scripts being

nities and how Govern-

unions to ensure that our

The hard work that

valid for longer periods

ment can positively

frontline workers get PPEs.

lies ahead to recover

munications to remote

6

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


from the impacts of

sory courses covering ar-

by corroding public and

– and strengthened

the pandemic means

eas such as ethics and

investor trust in gov-

through our collabora-

government’s efforts to

anti-corruption, senior

ernment and robbing

tion.

professionalise the public

management training

vulnerable people of the

sector are more impor-

and supply chain man-

resources they so des-

high-powered unit that

tant than ever because

agement.

perately need. The World

brings together various

Health Organisation

law enforcement agen-

public service workers

Another initiative has

The newly created

have an invaluable role

seen National Treasury

(WHO) has character-

cies, to deal specifically

to play in the attainment

introducing account-

ised this act of plunder

with crimes related to

of our national goal of

ing technician training

as tantamount to murder

the plunder of monies

building a capable and

programmes to help the

of the poor and the most

set aside to fight the

developmental state, as

public sector achieve

vulnerable. We agree

coronavirus pandemic, is

outlined in our National

better financial govern-

with this characterisa-

already hard at work.

Development Plan(NDP).

ance. It has partnered

tion.

This is why Govern-

with Accounting Techni-

The bad apples

Apart from ensuring our own conduct is

ment is partnering with

cians South Africa to

among us are a blight

above board and that

academia and other

develop a public sector

on all accountable,

we, as public servants,

stakeholders to ensure

qualification that will in-

transparent, efficient,

always act in the inter-

public servants are skilled

crease the pool of finan-

effective, ethical and re-

ests of the people of this

and properly equipped

cially qualified people.

sponsive public servants

country, let us support

for the job at hand.

Significantly, given the

and must be rooted out

the agencies tasked

I am pleased at the

spectre of public sector

and prosecuted.

with ending corrup-

number of senior man-

corruption, it includes a

agement officials who

module on ethics.

enrolled for the Nyukela

Institutions like the

tion by giving them the

National Prosecuting

information they need to

Authority, the Hawks and

effectively fulfil their man-

programme run by the

Makwetu has urged

the Special Investigating

dates, no matter who

National School of Gov-

accounting officers and

Unit have the muscle to

the wrongdoers are or

ernment (NSG) during

authorities of public in-

carry out President Cyril

what positions they oc-

the national lockdown.

stitutions to take greater

Ramaphosa’s anti-cor-

cupy. During this Public

The NSG was formed

responsibility for prevent-

ruption mandate inde-

Service Month, let us be

in response to Govern-

ing and detecting fraud,

pendently without fear,

reminded that our duty

ment’s mission of capaci-

theft and all irregularities

favour and prejudice.

as public service is first

tating and professionalis-

in financial performance

ing the public sector, and

in government.

trains about 4 000 public

Auditor-General Kimi

Their efforts must be

While we may be feel-

and foremost, rendering

ing disillusioned at how

a selfless service to our

widespread public cor-

country and its people.

servants annually at its

part of a society-wide

ruption is, and how it has

Let us recommit our-

premises in Pretoria and

drive to blow the whistle

tarnished our collective

selves to efficient service

40 000 in external venues

on corruption, which

image, the recent devel-

delivery and diligent

in other cities nationwide.

has already done huge

opments and successes

execution in the interest

It is rolling out compul-

damage to South Africa

need to be celebrated

of South Africans.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

7


FEATURE FROM THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL MESSAGE

It’s time to explore SA again

S

outh Africa was

but rather that all

recently voted

stakeholders should

the most popular

redouble their efforts

post-COVID-19 destination

to grow the sector, with

in a global survey done

an immediate focus on

by online travel website

domestic tourism.

Tourlane.

Public servants have

With international

a crucial role to play

travellers counting the

in ensuring decent

days until they can pack

infrastructure and

their bags and head our

curbing crime and

way, South Africans have

corruption so that

to ask themselves the

people have pleasant

golden question: ‘What

experiences and traveller

are we waiting for?’

Phumla Williams, GCIS Director-General.

The southern tip of

confidence is inspired, while government also

Africa remains a tourism

both Tourism Month

and the commitment

needs to create an

bucket list destination

and National Heritage

of private and public

enabling environment

but many locals forget

Month in September with

tourism stakeholders to

in which tourism can

just how wonderful their

the knowledge that the

collaborate in restoring

thrive. To this end, the

home country is, in their

global pandemic and

the sector, and the

1996 White Paper will be

haste to book overseas

national lockdown have

medium- to long-term

reviewed and aligned

trips, which remain out of

hurt our tourism and

outlook looks promising.

with current trends and

bounds under Level 2 of

heritage tourism sectors.

the national lockdown.

However, we should

Development Plan

The continued closure

not lose sight of the

recognises tourism

of our international

opportunities that await,

as one of the main

as it does on the back

borders gives South

from a growing cohort

drivers of employment

of the country moving

Africans the opportunity

of tourism entrepreneurs

and economic growth,

to Alert Level 2, provides

to explore the wealth

to a booming demand

and envisages the

the perfect opportunity

of domestic tourism

for more meaningful

promotion of South

to vigorously promote

offerings, including

heritage experiences that

Africa as a major tourist

domestic tourism

safari trips, wine tastings,

will open up new markets

and business events

and ignite the desire

interactive cultural

in townships and rural

destination.

to explore the many

experiences, golden

areas.

beaches and world-class hotels. The country celebrates

8

Add to this the global

The National

practices in the tourism

The toll taken by the

sector. Tourism Month, coming

affordable, exciting and

pandemic does not

world-class attractions on

standing of South Africa

mean that we should

our doorstep.

as a tourism destination

lose sight of this goal,

Public Sector Manager • September 2020



FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa

Working towards a capable, ethical and developmental state

T

here are few

demands much of indi-

callings more

viduals and their families.

important for a

Public Service Month,

A streamlined, efficient

Public servants are the

and well-integrated civil

first interface between

service is the hallmark

government and citi-

person than the call to

which is held in Septem-

of a capable state. Like-

zens. Their encounters,

public service.

ber each year, promotes

wise, an unproductive,

whether positive or neg-

a culture of pride and

inefficient and cumber-

ative, are crucial in how

improve people’s lives

ethics in the Public Ser-

some civil service can

the state is perceived by

and change society for

vice and improvement

frustrate the implemen-

the wider population.

the better. It carries great

in all facets of service

tation of even the best

Our key priority is to

responsibility and often

provision.

policies.

It is an opportunity to

10

build a capable state.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


If we are

senior

to build a

positions

more capable

based on

state we have to

considerations

seriously and urgently

other than their capability to execute the

address the shortcom-

tasks of the office they

ings in the organisation able

and the capacity of the Public Service.

to do

are appointed to. The building of a capa-

is misplaced. Public

Politicaladministrative interface

servants include officials

One of the areas to

and administrators, but

which we are giving at-

ers must be given the

Service to be oriented

they also include doc-

tention is known as the

space, the means and

towards efficiency, per-

tors, nurses, police men

‘political-administrative’

the resources to man-

formance and develop-

and women and teach-

interface, where lines

age.

mental outcomes.

ers who play an invalu-

of accountability at the

able role in keeping the

most senior levels of

are sometimes made on

wheels of our country

the State have become

political considerations

The best and brightest

turning.

blurred. Political office

rather than expertise. This

The civil service should

bearers such as Ministers,

severely limits the capac-

attract high-calibre and

whether – given its size,

MECs and Mayors often

ity and effective function-

qualified candidate

cost and needs of our

veer towards getting

ing of the State.

country – the public

involved in administrative

service is performing as

matters that should be

our civil service comprise

tional Development Plan

it should. The experience

the responsibility of pro-

individuals committed

(NDP) proposes a formal

of our people is that in

fessional public servants.

to driving government’s

graduate recruitment

several areas, the State

While the Public Service

programme of action, it

scheme for the Public

The view that the Public Service is bloated

The real issue is

this work without

undue political

interference. Public service manag-

Senior appointments

As much as the ranks of

ble, ethical and developmental state is among our foremost priorities. We want the Public

As one of the ways of achieving this, the Na-

is falling short of expec-

is required to implement

has also over the years

Service. Our people want

tations.

the electoral mandate of

been associated with

the best and the bright-

the governing party and

patronage. This is mani-

est in society to serve

mental problems that

to account to the Ex-

fested through the ap-

them.

we are working to fix.

ecutive, they need to be

pointment of people into

There are some funda-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

The civil service must

11


FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS

be seen as a career destination of choice by those who want to make a difference in the life of their country, and not merely as a comfortable nine-to-five desk job or a place to earn a salary with minimal effort. Should some still harbour this view they should take advantage of opportunities to exit the Public Service to make way for those who are up to the task.

Lifelong learning

leadership – are offered

and abused. They are

online.

representatives of a

The school is also

servant of the people. As the NDP reminds

government derived of

us, a capable develop-

Training and upskilling is

engaged in collabora-

the people and for the

mental state cannot be

critical to professionalis-

tion with international

people, and are guard-

created by decree: “It

ing the civil service.

training institutes to

ians of our Constitution.

has to be built, brick by

The National School

offer courses on wider

At a time when we

brick, institution by in-

have been confronted

stitution, and sustained

with a series of scan-

and rejuvenated over

ant is an honour and

dals that point to clear

time.”

long learning for those

a privilege. It demands

complicity by certain

already in the ranks. As

dedication, selflessness,

public servants in acts

acquire a high level of

an example, the school

professionalism, com-

of corruption, this Public

capability as envisaged

offers a certificate

mitment and the utmost

Service Month should

by the NDP is a defining

programme for anyone

faithfulness to the prin-

be an opportunity for

characteristic of what a

who wants to be ap-

ciples of Batho Pele, of

the men and women

capable developmental

pointed into senior man-

putting the people first.

tasked with this weighty

state should have to

responsibility to set

become an economi-

of Government is play-

governance issues.

ing an important role in

Being a public serv-

building a culture of life-

Our ability to steadily

agement. Many of the

Public servants are

school’s programmes –

entrusted with manag-

themselves apart – to

cally prosperous, socially

from advanced project

ing state resources for

rededicate themselves

inclusive and a well-gov-

management to finan-

the benefit of the public

to their calling and to

erned state that is able

cial management and

and in guarding against

fully comprehend what

to meet the needs of our

budgeting to change

them being misused

it truly means to be a

people.

12

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADERS

Writer: More Matshediso

Be the ideal public servant

A

true public serv-

importance of their work,

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

officials, who continue to

ant always puts

not only in September

pandemic, will be com-

work tirelessly in fighting

people first, does

but throughout the year.

memorated under the

COVID-19 and who have

theme: ‘Growing South

dedicated their lives to serving the public.

good even when no one

This month, various

is watching and takes a

government depart-

Africa Together for an

stand against corruption

ments will host activities

Ethical Public Service’.

and wrongdoing.

to celebrate the annual public service pro-

stil and rebuild good eth-

COVID-19 and the 4IR

acteristics of an ideal

gramme which is aimed

ics and professionalism

Minister Mchunu says the

public servant, says Pub-

at recognising the work

in how public servants

outbreak of COVID-19

lic Service and Admin-

done by public servants

perform their functions

has dominated and

istration Minister Senzo

across all three spheres

while also recognising

characterised the year

Mchunu.

of government.

the selflessness of the

so far and claimed the

many frontline public

lives of many public servants.

These are the char-

His Public Service

The month-long

The theme seeks to in-

Month message is that

programme, which

servants, including doc-

government employees

takes place against the

tors, nurses, caregivers,

“As government, we

should remember the

backdrop of the global

paramedics and police

would have hoped to

14

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


not have had even one

families of the public

what we thought we

the pandemic to invest

death – not of a citizen

servants who have lost

had done well, must be

more in the 4IR in future.”

or public servant. Our

their lives in the fight

reviewed; as far as 4IR is

priority has always been

against COVID-19 and

concerned, we are talk-

learnt will not only create

and still is, to save lives

we stand in solidarity in

ing e-government, smart

new possibilities that will

and protect livelihoods.

the continued fight.”

government and various

improve people’s lives,

means to achieve that.

but will also serve as

“As a result, govern-

Minister Mchunu says

He says the lessons

ment has had to impose

government has learned

a number of measures

many lessons from the

new opportunity and are

review and adaptation

to ensure the safety and

pandemic.

approaching relevant

of service delivery poli-

“We are embracing this

an opportunity for the

departments to make

cies for improved service

large such as the na-

of COVID-19 provides a

government work more

delivery post-COVID-19.

tional lockdown and its

“tectonic shift” in how

efficiently.”

support of the public at

The current climate

various alert levels.” He says specific measures have also been taken to ensure the safety of public servants. These include guidelines for safe working environments, the introduction of remote working,

“We should drive resources once we have dealt with the pandemic to invest more in the 4IR in future.”

Professionalising the Public Service Stressing the importance of professionalism in the Public Service, the Minister encouraged public servants to commit to gaining a thorough

the provision of personal

understanding of profes-

protective equipment,

sionalism, and realise that their actions can

guidelines to occupa-

services are offered, and

tional health and safety

requires the techno-

thousands of public

constitute unprofessional

in the workplace and

logical solutions of the

servants have worked

conduct, even though

training of health and

Fourth Industrial Revolu-

from home and proved

no laws are broken.

safety representatives as

tion (4IR).

that they can perform

well as the deployment

He notes while govern-

During the lockdown,

“We serve people,

efficiently without physi-

and their expectation is

of Cabinet Ministers to

ment has always tried

cally being in the office.

that government will be

districts, to assist with

to keep up with techno-

This has reinforced the

good,” he says.

issues relating to health,

logical developments,

possibilities offered by

education and also

COVID-19 revealed some

the 4IR.

water and sanitation.

gaps and weaknesses.

“As government, we

“We take up the chal-

sympathise with the

lenge. We now know that

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

“We see the value. We

Government requires its employees to be in possession of certain skills

should drive resources

and educational quali-

once we have dealt with

fications, which ensures

15


CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADERS

that the Public Service

training programmes in

– from answering calls

recruits people who are

August.”

from citizens to delivering

all public servants to

the actual service that is

conduct themselves

required.

ethically, in line with their

empowered with the

The first programme is

basic tools required to

called ‘Economic Gov-

do their work.

ernance Spring School

“Citizens often ap-

“We want to call upon

professions. Similarly, we

for Members of the

proach government

call on all public serv-

ment provides various

Executive’ and is specifi-

institutions in need of ser-

ants to not only desist

educational opportuni-

cally targeted at Minis-

vices, either in person or

against any criminal and

ties to its employees

ters, Deputy Ministers,

through other mediums

corrupt activities but to

in a form of upskilling

Premiers, Mayors, MECs

of communication and

fight and isolate it and

programmes, bursary op-

and MMCs.

start off with: ‘Dumela’,

expose anyone who commits such acts.”

“Furthermore, govern-

portunities, and compul-

The second pro-

‘Sawubona’ or ‘Good

sory courses that include

gramme falls under

morning’, from there,

prerequisites to those

the ‘Framework for

public servants are then

public servants that

who would like to hold

Continuing Leadership

supposed to return the

citizens look to them to

managerial positions.”

Engagements for Heads

courtesy and render the

solve the problems that

of Department’ in their

service.

are most crucial to them.

In addition, the Na-

The Minister reminded

tional School of Govern-

capacity as accounting

“It is the people first, fol-

ment, which is respon-

officers. It will be offered

lowed by the service and

public that there is a

sible for strengthening

to accounting officers

then the public servants

future in public service. I

state capacity through

across all three spheres

who have to render the

encourage public serv-

education, training and

of government as well

service. This makes pub-

ants to comply with all

development, is currently

as CEOs at state-owned

lic servants very pivotal.”

the legal prescripts and

providing a number of

enterprises.

“I want to assure the

to do right – even when

encouraged public

Clamping down on corruption

servants to always roll up

The Minister says govern-

servants to be guided by

are tailor-made to upskill

their sleeves and do their

ment has zero tolerance

their conscience as they

and equip public serv-

jobs, which is delivering

for public servants who

strive to deliver the better

ants. Further to this, Cabi-

services to the people

are still stealing from

South Africa government

net approved two new

as ethically as possible

citizens.

is working towards.

programmes to public servants. “These programmes

16

Minister Mchunu

no one is watching.” He called on public

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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FEATURE

Writer: Allison Cooper

Improved governance needed on COVID-19 initiatives

I

n his first audit report

cesses and procedures

of the government

findings to the account-

into government’s key

to respond to the crisis

sectors that now need

ing officer or authority

Coronavirus (COV-

expose government to

to lead or support the

to enable them to deal

ID-19) initiatives and their

the risks of the misuse

government’s efforts,”

with any shortcomings

funds, Auditor-General

or abuse of public re-

said Makwetu.

immediately and tighten

Kimi Makwetu has called

sources.

on leaders to improve

“We have been report-

The COVID-19 audit

controls to prevent a re-

is being performed by

currence,” he explained.

ing on and warning

multidisciplinary teams,

about poor financial

made up of fraud,

ernment’s R500 billion

management controls,

information technology

Indicators of potential fraud

COVID-19 relief package,

a disregard for supply

(IT) and sector-specific

Makwetu said that IT

which was funded by

chain management

experts.

systems used in gov-

reprioritising the 2020/21

legislation, an inability

“We are auditing pay-

ernment are not agile

budget and securing

to effectively manage

ments, procurement and

enough to respond to

loans, “landed in a weak

projects and a lack of

delivery, as they occur,

the changes required.

control environment”.

accountability in many

and are reporting any

governance. Makwetu says gov-

“The lack of validation,

He recently released the first in a series of audit reports, covering R68.9 billion (47 percent) of the initial R147.4 billion spending. “Emergency responses and quick actions are required to save lives and livelihoods, but the easing of controls and the streamlining of pro-

18

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


integration and sharing

audit efforts,” Makwetu

outs, without ensuring

tions with payment data

of data across govern-

said.

that good preventative

also identified overpay-

controls were in place.

ments, underpayments,

ment platforms resulted

The list of cases point-

in people – including

ing to a high risk of fraud

“All of this increased

duplicate payments and

government officials –

will be handed to the

the risk of payments to

discrepancies. “The UIF is

receiving benefits and

multi-agency Fusion

beneficiaries who are

implementing actions to

grants they were not enti-

Centre for swift follow-up

not eligible, overpay-

address what we have

tled to. Some applicants

and action.

ments, underpayments,

reported,” Makwetu said.

could have been unfairly

the invalid rejection of

There is a risk that the

outdated information

UIF and social grants

on which assessment for

By 31 July, the Unemploy-

eligibility was based.”

ment Insurance Fund

new system implement-

not in distress. “SASSA

(UIF) had paid just over

ed for TERS incorrectly

used some government

pre-existing deficiencies

R37 billion from the UIF

calculated benefits for

databases to check if

in government’s supply

Temporary Employer/

the first lockdown period

applicants have alter-

chain processes were

Employee Relief Scheme

(27 March to 30 April), by

nate sources of income,

amplified by the intro-

(TERS) benefit, and the

not taking into account

which would disqualify

duction of emergency

South African Social

the actual period of

them for social relief

procurement processes

Security Agency (SASSA)

inactivity and the portion

grant. The databases are

allowed for personal

had paid R19.6 billion in

of the salary paid by

not sufficient, as our data

protective equipment

social grants.

employers, resulting in

analytics still flagged

significant overpayments.

payments to over 30 000

rejected as a result of

He also noted that

(PPE). “There are clear

While information tech-

beneficiaries, fraud and

R350 Social Relief of

double-dipping.”

Distress grant is being

He explained that the

paid to people who are

signs of overpricing, un-

nology systems across

A high number of

fair processes, potential

government carry data

payments requiring

fraud and supply chain

on almost everyone

investigation have been

management legislation

in the country, it is not

flagged. “Work is continu-

ments to government of-

being sidestepped.”

integrated, shared across

ing to verify this. These

ficials and to people who

beneficiaries that require further investigation.” These include pay-

government or effectively

include payments to

received other sources of

about the indicators

used by the UIF and

people who are below

income.

of high-risk fraud and

SASSA (and similar enti-

the legal age of employ-

abuse we observed – not

ties) to check if people

ment, deceased, working

only in the areas that

qualify for UIF or grants,

in government, receiving

Procurement of PPE

we were able to audit,

Makwetu said.

social grants or students

The PPE procurement

funded by the National

audit focused on the

“We are concerned

but also where informa-

The UIF and SASSA

tion for auditing was

made significant chang-

Student Financial Aid

health and education

not forthcoming, which

es in their processes and

Scheme.”

sectors, particularly on

could be a deliberate

systems, in a short time

The recalculation of

tactic to frustrate our

period, to enable pay-

claims and reconcilia-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

the processes undertaken to identify the need

19


FEATURE

for PPE, the procure-

against a budget of

States Government for

ment process, payments

R175 million.

South Africa’s health

less than half of the ap-

response has not yet

propriated funds have

made and PPE delivered.

• Inadequate record

Makwetu said to date,

“A worrying picture is

keeping and recon-

been received. Of

been spent, which sug-

emerging,” said Mak-

ciliations of vouchers

the 1 000 ventilators

gested that a height-

wetu.

approved, distributed

pledged, only 150

ened level of oversight

Key findings include

and redeemed, was

were received by 6

will be required as more

delays in PPE; unreliable

identified in the relief

July. The availability

programmes are rolled

methods for determin-

scheme for small-

of ventilators in the

out.

ing the number of

scale farmers.

market remains a

employees and learners;

• The distribution of

“We call on oversight

problem, with 1 144

structures to use this

support staff not always

food parcels by SASSA

ventilators ordered

report to direct their over-

being considered; short-

could have been

but only 58 delivered

sight actions and call

ages in health facilities;

significantly cheaper

by 31 July.

accounting officers, au-

PPE priced at double or

if it used existing non-

five times the prescribed

profit organisations

quarantine sites out of

authorities to account

price; deficiencies and

rather than appoint-

6 123 were identified

for the implementation

non-compliance in PPE

ing service providers.

and only 192 were

of the initiatives related

activated for use.

to the pandemic and

procurement processes;

• Food parcel distribu-

• By 31 July, only 510

thorities and executive

and insufficient controls

tion controls were not

to ensure the receipt

always effective, result-

pitals were completed

funds entrusted to them,”

and payment of PPE at

ing in increased time

by 30 June.

he added.

the levels of quality and

from application to

price ordered.

distribution, damaged

“There are clear indica-

aged parcels and

ties in the procurement

beneficiaries receiving

processes, which will be

more than they were

further investigated,” he

entitled to.

Other highlights of the

• The water supply initiative is behind

report include:

schedule and the

• The uptake of the

department could not

Spaza Shop Support

provide a reliable list-

Scheme was below

ing of all water tanks

expectations, with only

delivered and their

1 697 owners receiv-

location.

ing the grant (R5.9 million) by 30 June,

20

the management of the

and poorly pack-

tors of fraudulent activi-

added.

• Only 18 of 66 field hos-

• The R410 million pledged by the Unites

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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FEATURE

Preserving South Africa’s rich heritage S

Image: South African Tourism

Writer: Dale Hes

outh Africa’s rich

promoting them for the

is tasked with an overall

national heritage sites

heritage and

purposes of education

legislative mandate to

and dozens of provincial

melting pot of

and tourism.

identify, assess, manage,

heritage sites, celebrat-

protect and promote

ing our cultural, natural

heritage resources.

and historical heritage.

cultures needs to be

The South African

preserved for the gen-

Heritage Resources

erations to come. Public

Agency (SAHRA) is at

servants play a critical

the forefront of protect-

rently boasts 10 United

role in preserving this

ing heritage sites in the

Nations Educational,

Nurturing a legacy

heritage, by identifying

country. An agency of

Scientific and Cultural

Nkosazana Machete,

sites of importance, pro-

the Department of Sport,

Organisation (UNESCO)

the Heritage Protection

tecting these sites and

Arts and Culture, SAHRA

World Heritage sites, 25

Manager at SAHRA,

22

South Africa cur-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


promotes new and previously neglected research into our rich oral traditions and customs.” SAHRA is focusing on increasing representation of previously ignored Image: Olga Ernst

groups in the national estate. “Of particular interest is the recognition of Khoi and San heritage and recognising our

explains that the agency

• Grade II: Heritage

“Our heritage is unique

female Struggle heroes.

fulfils the mandates of

resources which,

and precious, and it can-

In 2020 we initiated the

the National Heritage

although forming part

not be renewed. It helps

process of declaring the

Resources Act of 1999.

of the national estate,

us to define our cultural

Winnie Mandela House

can be considered to

identity and therefore

in Brandfort, Free State,

promote good manage-

have special qualities

lies at the heart of our

as a National Heritage

ment of the national es-

which make them

spiritual well-being. It has

Site. We are also declar-

tate, and to enable and

significant within the

the potential to affirm

ing the Griqua Ratelgat

encourage communities

context of a prov-

our diverse cultures and

Monument and Mari-

to nurture and conserve

ince or a region. (For

in so doing, shape our

etjie Jantjies Grave as a

their legacy so that it

example, provincial

national character.”

National Heritage Site,”

“The Act aims to

may be bequeathed to future generations.”

heritage sites). • Grade III: Other herit-

Machete adds that the painful realities of our

Machete explains.

Overcoming threats to our heritage

The national estate

age resources worthy

past cannot be ignored

includes sites of impor-

of conservation. (For

when we speak about

tance for national herit-

example, historical

heritage.

age, and is broken down

artefacts that may not

into three categories:

have particular herit-

ebrates our achieve-

sites are under threat, for

• Grade I: Heritage re-

age significance but

ments and contributes to

a number of reasons, in-

sources with qualities

which should still be

redressing past inequali-

cluding vandalism, theft

so exceptional that

preserved).

ties. It educates, deep-

and desecration.

“Our heritage cel-

Many of our heritage

they are of special

Machete explains why

ens our understanding of

“Community mem-

national significance.

public servants and

society and encourages

bers destroy heritage

(For example, world

communities should

us to empathise with the

sites by stealing fences,

heritage sites and na-

conserve South Africa’s

experience of others. It

plaques or artefacts to

tional heritage sites).

colourful heritage.

facilitates healing and

sell for financial gain.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

23


FEATURE

Image: Pierre André

those not directly involved in heritage activities, can help to educate and inform communities. “In particular, public servants need to visit our heritage sites with their families and friends to enjoy, and to educate the younger generations and teach them the importance of protecting them. In addition, public servants need to urgently report the destruction of heritage sites.” SAHRA has a number of projects, in conjunction

In other cases, statues

only be done on a

respond to threats to

with other government

which have some link to

national level. Officials

heritage sites.”

departments, that aim

apartheid or colonialism

at provincial and local

are destroyed because

levels are arguably more

help to protect and pro-

of the anger associated

important for protecting

mote heritage.

with the imbalances of

heritage sites, as they are

the past. There has also

the ones that can best

Public servants should

areas are dug out, we are not sure why,” says Machete. Protecting against these threats is a task that is shared among national, provincial and local heritage resource authorities. “Management of heritage sites cannot

24

heritage sites. “For example, the World

Machete says that all public servants, even

Heritage Sites have forums that include youth forums and manage-

been a new trend where graves in the mining

to educate and protect

ment authorities that

South Africa’s World Heritage sites

oversee the sites. SAHRA

• Robben Island

has also started a rural

• Cape Floral Kingdom

advocacy workshop,

• iSimangaliso Wetland Park

together with the Depart-

• Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape

ment of Environment,

• Vredefort Dome

Forestry and Fisheries

• uKhahlamba Drakensberg National Park • Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscale • Cradle of Humankind • ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape • Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains

and the Department of Tourism, for school pupils, teaching them about the heritage sites around them.”

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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OPINION

Writer: Deputy Minister of Tourism Fish Mahlalela

For tourism to recover, we need to go beyond the now

I

n recent decades,

the COVID-19 pandemic,

new post-crisis era, and

as tourism activity scales

the tourism sector

as well as aid it during

explore innovative pro-

back up, and interven-

has firmly established

the recovery phase.

grammes to enable the

tions to drive long-term

travel and tourism sector

growth in tourism.

itself as an important growth and employment,

On the road to recovery

contributor to economic

to become more inclu-

and a driver for achiev-

Government implement-

ing global development

ed measures to support

Recovery Plan has three

goals.

the tourism sector during

strategic themes:

It is one of the larger

the pandemic, through

• Re-igniting Demand.

Building a resilient, inclusive tourism economy

economic sectors that is

the R200-million Tourism

• Rejuvenating Supply.

Through the Enterprise

significantly impacted by

Relief Fund and the Tour-

• Strengthening Enabling

Development and Trans-

the Coronavirus (COV-

ist Guide Fund.

ID-19) pandemic. This has resulted in

The sector is developing

sive, robust and resilient. The Tourism Sector

formation Programme,

Capability. These interventions are

the Department of

a tourism recovery plan

aimed at protecting the

Tourism is introducing

the need for enhanced

to ensure continuous sup-

domestic supply side of

new players into the

sector support to help

port to tourism businesses

the sector, managing the

tourism economy and

protect this sector during

to adapt and thrive in a

reopening of the sector

thus contributing to the

26

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


competitiveness of tourism destinations.

We have, unfortunately,

Our collaboration with

year on 27 September.

had to suspend the

the South African Police

It will be celebrated this

Youth Chefs Training and

Service (SAPS) resulted in

year under the theme

technology will drive the

Coastal Marine Tourism

the signing of a memo-

‘Rural Development and

provision of government

Skills Development Pro-

randum of understanding

Tourism’.

services into the future.

grammes in line with the

to identify and address

COVID-19 restrictions and

challenges on tourism

aims to promote the

risk assessments.

safety, including identifi-

importance of tourism

cation of tourism hot-

in achieving the UN's

We recognise that

The Enterprise Development and Transformation Portal will, therefore, serve

The South African Na-

Globally, the theme

as an online supplier

tional Convention Bureau

spots, the analysis and

Sustainable Development

marketplace for small,

will this year focus on the

enhancement of crime

Goals through its social,

medium and micro enter-

support of the recovery of

prevention initiatives, as

cultural, political and

prises in order to promote

business events tourism

well as creating a plat-

economic value, with a

sector transformation

by targeting future events

form for joint awareness

concerted focus on rural

and job creation.

which have a bidding

programmes.

communities.

Our Working for Tourism Programme continues

process of three to fouryear lead times.

The Tourism Monitors

Domestically, the 2020

Programme was imple-

theme links to govern-

mented in parks man-

ment’s Outcome 7, which

through on-the-job train-

of tourism business

aged by South African

focuses on developing

ing within infrastructure

events is another way of

National Parks (SANParks)

vibrant, equitable and

projects, and secondly

broadening participa-

and gardens managed

sustainable rural com-

through stand-alone

tion in the sector. For this,

by the South African Na-

munities that contribute

training interventions with

South African Tourism is

tional Biodiversity Institute.

towards food security

participants accumulat-

developing a framework

Although we have 302

for all; and Outcome 4,

ing credits towards a

to capacitate national

participants at SANParks,

which focuses on creat-

qualification. We will cre-

associations to host busi-

this programme was

ing decent employment

ate 2 500 work opportuni-

ness events in villages,

temporarily suspended

through inclusive eco-

ties through the Depart-

towns and small dorpies

on 1 June 2020, due to

nomic growth.

ment’s Expanded Public

across our nine provinces.

the pandemic.

to support training, firstly

Works Programme during

The geographic spread

During Tourism Month

Plans are underway for

2020, as we reopen our

the National Tourism In-

the further training of the

sector, we will showcase

formation and Monitoring

tourism monitors by the

the many rural tourism of-

include:

System to gather, analyse

SAPS Academy.

ferings, natural wonders,

• Tour guide capacity

and provide data to in-

this financial year. Projects for 2020/21

building. • Food safety quality assurers. • Wine service training (sommelier). • Hospitality and fast food training.

We will also implement

lifestyles, events, traditions,

tion of sector initiatives,

Let’s celebrate South African tourism

geared towards areas

World Tourism Day is a

with high tourism poten-

United Nations’ (UN)

tial, including townships

World Tourism Organisa-

encouraged to be part of

and rural areas.

tion initiative, held every

the We Do Tourism cam-

form our decision-making and enable prioritisa-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

cultures, cuisine and crafts, as we encourage South Africans to take a Sho’t Left. All South Africans are

27


OPINION

paign and to visit our heritage sites and other attractions in September and beyond. The tourism sector has established health and safety protocols to reduce the COVID-19 transmission risk in line with global guidelines, within a self-regulatory framework.

Service to the people Like the rest of the Public Service, we can only do

enhance the com-

or increasing the uptake,

what we say we will if we

petitiveness of tourism

particularly for emerging

head public service

have a solid organisa-

localities as we continue

small enterprises.

excellence, we will en-

tion and the necessary

to diversify our offerings,

manpower.

We will equally pursue a

To continue to spear-

hance our governance

with local government as

well-developed system of

mechanisms, promote

As the tourism depart-

a key role-player in the

handling and managing

ethical conduct, combat

ment, while traversing an

spatial management of

complaints from travellers

and prevent fraud and

unchartered path, we do

the tourism estate, includ-

and, through our moni-

corruption and deploy

so with positivity and the

ing work done in com-

toring and evaluation

the technology required

knowledge that we will

munities under traditional

efforts, will seek continu-

to optimise our perfor-

emerge tourism strong.

leadership.

ous improvement of our

mance.

Therefore, we undertake

Through the Tourism

project management

Political commitment

to develop projects that

Grading Council of

systems to optimise ef-

is key to ensuring that

will contribute towards

South Africa, we are also

ficiency and maximise on

tourism leads to wider

creating more meaning-

introducing an approach

the intended outcomes

economic and social re-

ful impacts, in support

to prepare establish-

and impacts.

covery, as proven in past

of our strategy, which re-

ments for grading. This will

mains anchored around

enable establishments

promote diversity and

phase might be a winter

commitments to growth

to receive feedback on

disability management,

of despair, our recovery

and development.

areas that require atten-

to sensitise employees

speaks to a summer of

We will continue to

disruptions. While this

tion prior to full grading

to the disability agenda

hope. Together, we will

introduction of the District

application, thereby mini-

and, importantly, to make

ensure that as an indus-

Development Model,

mising the numbers of

sure we continue to walk

try, we emerge tourism

we believe that we will

those that do not make it

the talk on these matters.

strong.

Coupled with the

28

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


ATTENTION ALL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS At any given time the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women cares for 120 women and children. Since opening our doors we have assisted 160 000 survivors of Gender Based Violence. To this end the Centre is looking for long term partnerships and sponsorships.

OUR PROGRAMMES

OUR BACKGROUND:

• Substance Abuse Unit

The Saartjie Baartman Centre

• Child Protection Programme • Legal Protection Programme • Economic Empowerment Programme

for Women and Children (SBCWC) was opened in 1999 in response to the high rates of violence against women and children on the Cape Flats near Cape Town. We provide

• Psychosocial Programme

essential, cost-free services 365

• EPWP Programme

days a year to abused women

• ECD Centre • Second Stage Housing

and children employing a comprehensive range of services for the effective treatment and

• Advocacy and Lobbying

prevention of violence against

• Outreach Programme

women and children.

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TRAILBLAZER

Writer: Silusapho Nyanda

Youngster leads provincial epidemiology T

he Coronavirus

for Communicable

as well as environmental

(COVID-19) pan-

Diseases’ (NICD) North

and socio-economic

demic has ex-

West Division of Public

factors. In addition to

posed South Africans to

Health Surveillance and

these, I analyse data

a number of lesser known

Response, only joined

from healthcare facilities

career fields – including

the NICD last year and

on different diseases.

epidemiology.

because of the global

Epidemiologists are scientists who study outbreaks of disease.

“In a nutshell, I put all

pandemic, has had a

these factors together

baptism by fire.

to find the best ways to

His job includes pro-

deal with diseases like

They examine data and

viding updated daily

look for patterns that can

statistics on COVID-19

tell them more about the

cases to the office of the

causes of the disease,

Minister of Health, Zweli

Data analysis

its characteristics and

Mkhize. Maruma was the

Maruma’s

patterns. This information

first person appointed to

job is 80

helps develop strategies

the North West province’s

percent data

to improve public health

pandemic response

analysis. “I can

services.

team.

spend eight

COVID-19,” he says.

As an epidemiologist,

to 10 hours a

cated professionals – like

he studies the impact of

day analysing

27-year-old Wellington

diseases at a population

statistics.

Maruma – have played

level.

These highly edu-

a vital role in helping

“Whereas doctors

government understand

deal with diseases on a

COVID-19 and formulate

patient-to-patient basis,

appropriate responses.

I investigate the overall

Baptism by fire

impact of disease on the population. In my

Maruma, an infectious

analysis of disease, I look

disease epidemiologist

at all the factors that

at the National Institute

might affect its spread,

30

Wellington Maruma is an infectious disease epidemiologist.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


Affairs to see what has

Sample collections

been listed as the cause

Maruma says that dur-

diagnoses among those

of death. At the same

ing the outbreak of a

who die of COVID-19

time, I look at data from

disease, his job includes

and whether the dead

Becoming an epidemiologist

the Department of Health.

ensuring that sample

had any comorbidi-

It takes many years to

Because the two depart-

collections run smoothly

ties. This is very key in

qualify as an epide-

ments have two different

so that real-time data

determining if one died

miologist. Educational

systems that they use to

of what is happening

of COVID-19 or another

requirements include

classify causes of death,

is available and that

illness.”

a senior certificate with

at times I have to look at

appropriate actions can

He explains that ex-

the two stated causes of

be taken without unnec-

treme care is taken to

a MBChB degree from a

death and then analyse

essary delays.

ask the right questions

university.

I look at data from Home

them on my own to see

“When there is an

For example, we would

in to assist South Africa

look at common primary

during the pandemic.

to determine that peo-

matric exemption and

Maruma holds a Master

if they are correct,” says

outbreak, I must make

ple said to have died as

of Science in Epidemiol-

Maruma.

sure that the specific

a result of COVID-19, are

ogy from Witwatersrand University.

As North West’s epidemi-

samples that need to be

indeed casualties of the

ologist, Maruma – along

collected, are collected

virus, before the data

He was all set to study

with other members of

on time, delivered for

is sent to the Minister’s

medicine when, towards

the provincial COVID-19

testing on time and that

office.

the end of Grade 12, he

response team – de-

they are tested on time.”

“I need to apply my

attended a career day at

veloped the guidelines

As the lead officer of

mind and ask ‘When did

Charlton Vos College and

on how to manage the

the COVID-19 pandemic

this person die?’, ‘When

learnt about epidemiol-

cases of people who test

response for epidemi-

were they diagnosed?’

ogy and other fields that

positive for COVID-19 and

ology in the province,

and ‘Is it really a COV-

combined his aptitude

also how to trace the

Maruma works with the

ID-19 death?’ before, as

for numbers and love

people who have been in

case management

a province, we declare it

for science. After doing

close contact with them.

team to analyse the

as a COVID-19 death.”

more research into the

The guidelines devel-

recovery and death rate

Another of Maruma’s

various options, he settled

oped by the provincial

of COVID-19 patients.

important responsibilities

on epidemiology and

team were then taught

The team is responsible

is ensuring that there

biostatistics.

to the district and sub-

for analysing the re-

are enough ventilators,

district teams of the

covery rate and factors

equipment and beds at

Honours degree through

North West Department

such as comorbidities

hospitals.

the Australian-registered

of Health. In addition,

which influence the re-

Maruma is also the brains

covery rate of COVID-19

eight people, two of

Maruma worked as a

behind developing the

patients.

whom are with the World

research assistant at the

Health Organisation and

Aurum Institute while

province’s database

“In the cases of death,

Maruma works with

After completing his

Monash University,

of COVID-19 positive

we look at what factors

another two who are

simultaneously pursuing

patients.

play a role in the deaths.

Cuban doctors brought

his Master’s degree.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

31


FEATURE FEATURE

Source: SAnews

COVID-19 contact tracing

goes high tech

anonymously in the COVID Alert SA app. When the user does so, all other users with whom they have been in contact for the past 14 days will immediately be notified of their exposure and prompted through the care pathway. At no

T

point in this process is he Department

tification Application

changes frequently and

the identity of any user

of Health has

Programming Interface

cannot be linked to the

revealed.

launched a

(API), developed by

identity of any user. Over

new mobile applica-

Apple and Google to

time, each user builds

contact tracing apps

tion – COVID Alert SA – to

enable contact tracing

an “encounter history” of

allow a greater number

strengthen South Africa’s

through mobile phones.

those they have been in

of contacts to be traced

contact with.

more rapidly, including

digital contact tracing efforts.

The app is fully privacypreserving, in line with

When a user tests posi-

Bluetooth-enabled

strangers whom an index

the requirements of the

tive, they are requested

case may not be able to

ment has deployed

API, and does not collect

to report their diagnosis

recall or identify. The app

teams to conduct

any personally identifi-

is zero rated to facilitate

manual contact tracing

able information or

optimal citizen uptake.

in every district. Subse-

trace a user’s loca-

quently, the WhatsApp-

tion.

To date, the depart-

based COVIDConnect

“Global experience has demonstrated the risk of a resurgence once

which allows index

Encounter history

cases to anonymously

Using Bluetooth,

lifted. While the trajectory

notify their contacts as

the COVID Alert

of the epidemic in South

prompted by the system.

SA app emits a

Africa has stabilised,

The COVID Alert SA app

randomly gen-

such a resurgence re-

will complement and

erated code

mains a real and present

strengthen the existing

that is picked

danger in our own coun-

methods as a powerful

by other us-

try,” said Department of

tool to enable the instant

ers when two

Health Director-General

notification of contacts

phones come

Dr Sandile Buthelezi.

following a positive test.

into proximity of

The COVID Alert SA

COVID Alert SA is built

one another. This

app provides the

service was launched,

on the exposure no-

32

unique identifier

restrictions on social and economic activity are

department with

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


additional armament to achieve suppression of the virus and prevent outbreaks from occurring again by eliminating the time-consuming steps it takes to achieve contact tracing manually. “This technology allows us to effectively break the chain of transmission by dramatically reducing the time between exposure and knowing one has been exposed, so that one can take action by self-quarantining and testing when necessary.”

Preventing resurgence Gaurang Tanna, who led the app development team at the department,

the health system and

protecting technology

said it is a crucial public

save lives, while preserv-

to alert users when they

was developed at no

health intervention to

ing privacy at scale. For

have been in close con-

cost to the department,

help suppress COVID-19

every 100 infections we

tact with someone who

through a partnership

and prevent a resur-

are able to prevent using

has since tested positive

with world-class develop-

gence.

this technology, we could

for COVID-19. The more

ers at Discovery Health,

prevent as many as 15-

people that download it,

Apple and Google.

many people download

20 hospital admissions,”

the better it will work.

the app. We request

says Tanna.

“It works best when

“Learning how to keep

The COVID Alert SA app

The department expressed its apprecia-

everyone safe from

tion to its partners, which

the app, and those con-

gal muster for implemen-

COVID-19 is one of the

include the Banking As-

firmed positive to report

tation through consulta-

challenges the world

sociation of South Africa

their diagnosis so that

tion with Justice Kate

faces. I hope that the

and its members, as

their contacts can be

O’Regan, the COVID-19

new COVID Alert app will

well as mobile networks

notified.

designated judge.

make a contribution to

Cell C, Telkom, MTN and

doing so,” said Justice

Vodacom, for their con-

O’Regan.

tribution.

everyone to download

“The app is designed to reduce the impact on

The app has passed le-

“The COVID Alert SA app is based on privacy

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

33


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FEATURE

Writer: Silusapho Nyanda

Govt strengthens fight against GBVF G overnment is

ment Act Amendment Bill,

on GBVF. One of the sum-

to domestic violence and

ramping up its

the Criminal and Related

mit’s outcomes was a call

sexual offences. They are

fight against

Matters Amendment Bill

to review the laws around

amendment Bills to laws

gender-based violence

and the Domestic Vio-

GBVF.

that are already there,”

and femicide (GBVF).

lence Amendment Bill.

In an effort to curtail the

According to the

Deputy Minister Jeffery says the review process

he explains.

spread of what President

Deputy Minister of Jus-

is now set for ratification

Cyril Ramaphosa says is

tice and Constitutional

in Parliament. “We have

the second pandemic

Development, John Jef-

a second pandemic of

Domestic Violence Amendment Bill

facing the country, the

fery, the amendments

women being beaten,

The Domestic Violence

Department of Social De-

will strengthen existing

killed and raped, many

Amendment Bill allows

velopment has donated

legislation so that victims

of them by a partner or

for the elderly to seek a

R100 million to non-gov-

of abuse are better pro-

someone that they know.

protection order from an

ernmental organisations

tected by law.

fighting GBVF. In addition, Cabinet

Review process

“One of the declarations from the summit

abuser who is not necessarily their spouse.

was that laws need to be

The Bill extends the

has approved three new

The review of the laws

reviewed and tightened.

definition of ‘domestic

Bills – the Criminal Law

surrounding GBVF cases

So, as the Department of

violence’ to include

(Sexual Offences and

started in 2018, following

Justice, we have re-

the protection of older

Related Matters) Amend-

the Presidential Summit

viewed the laws relating

persons against abuse experienced from family members and loved ones. The amendment relating to the elderly reads: “Elder abuse means abusive behaviour in a relationship with an older person. It can include financial abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, as well as controlling behaviour like social isolation or inten-

38

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


tional and unintentional neglect.”

Another new provision is that if an abuser has

victimisation. According to the Bill, life

one that you are going to rape them; are going to

a licensed firearm, the

imprisonment must be

force them to rape some-

people to apply for a pro-

police will take posses-

imposed on those con-

body else; you are going

tection order online. This

sion of the firearm, even

victed of the murder of a

to sexually violate; or

means people seeking a

if the perpetrator uses it

child, and murder result-

expose their private parts,

protection order will now

for work.

ing from physical abuse

you have committed a

or sexual abuse by the

crime,” says the Deputy

accused who is or was in

Minister.

The Bill also enables

be able to depose and

Amendment Bill also

Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Bill

criminalises people

Through the Criminal

not reporting cases

and Related Matters

stances where rape is

Sex Offenders (NRSO) to

of domestic abuse. “If

Amendment Bill further

punishable by life impris-

include the particulars of

people have knowledge

protection will be offered

onment to include in-

all sex offenders and not

of domestic violence

to victims of sexual abuse

stances where the parties

only offenders against

that is going on, there is

when they testify in court.

are or were in a domestic

children and persons

a duty to report it as it’s

It provides for an interme-

relationship.

who are mentally disa-

criminalised if they don’t,”

diary to be appointed to

explains Deputy Minister

broker dialogue between

Jeffery.

a victim and lawyers.

file an affidavit online. The Domestic Violence

a domestic relationship with the victim. It also sets out circum-

The Bill also seeks to expand the scope of the National Register for

bled, as is the position

ily knows that a man is

that the intermediary will

beating his wife, they

hear the questions from

have a legal duty to re-

the lawyers and then re-

Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act Amendment Bill

port the abuse, he adds.

phrase them so that they

As part of the tightening

contact, with children or

The Bill also makes it

are more palatable and

the laws, the Criminal

persons who are mentally

easier for the police to

are properly understood

Law (Sexual Offences

disabled.

arrest a perpetrator.

by the victim. The victim

and Related Matters)

will respond through the

Amendment Act Amend-

ments, companies

intermediary.

ment Bill has introduced

and organisations who

a new offence, called

deal with children and

For example, a fam-

It gives police the discretion to arrest without a warrant in certain

The Deputy Minister says

The Bill states that par-

now. An offender whose particulars are recorded in the NRSO may not work, or occupy positions that place them in

Under the new amend-

circumstances, and also

ties involved in a court

sexual intimidation. This

people living with mental

permits them to enter a

case may apply to have

new crime means that if

illnesses must check

private dwelling, using

an intermediary present

a person is threatened

potential new employees

commensurate force so

or the court may choose

with rape or any form of

against the register. The

as to obtain evidence,

to appoint one. This will

sexual assault, the per-

Bills were expected to be

including the detection

be done if the court be-

petrator will be charged

introduced to Parliament.

and questioning of the

lieves that someone may

under this law.

alleged abuser.

be exposed to secondary

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

“If you threaten some-

39


OPINION

*Writer: Ohara Ngoma-Diseko

Language and gender equality S

professor at the University of South Africa (UNISA).“You can do all this work in the home and when they step outside of that gate the world will check them, that the world will undo

outh Africa is

the work that you have

blessed with

done in the house,” ob-

many dialects

served Ratele.

and a constitutional

He, together with

recognition of 11 official

Rebecca Helman, a

languages. Our polyglot

researcher at UNISA’s Vio-

nation has a lexicon of

lence, Injury and Peace

staggering proportions,

Research Unit, recently

some of which are overtly

released a documentary

or subliminally used

on YouTube, called An

to perpetuate gender

Ordinary Thing. The docu-

inequality and sustain

mentary is a part of the

violence and oppression.

work the two academics have devoted them-

Words like letekatsi (SeSotho) and Isefebe

selves to over the years,

(IsiZulu) meaning a pro-

to create knowledge

miscuous woman and

about gender relations

magosha (a derogatory

in South Africa.

term), slang for prostitute,

people. These are just a

gender equality inclusive

are commonly thrown

smattering of pervasive

of gender non-conform-

because there is a com-

about in the private and

everyday gender-based

ing persons. We there-

mon idea that passes

public spaces at women

verbal violence in South

fore need deliberate and

as a norm that it is the

by men as a means of

Africa.

radical action to develop

responsibility of men to

an inclusive language

protect and provide for

that promotes gender

women and girls. This

equality.

idea is commonly stated

subjugating, dehumanis-

I concur with Ratele

women. In the same way,

Inclusive language

words like s’shemane

The language and epi-

and moffie are com-

thets we use to socialise

hard about the work

aimed at addressing

monly aimed at degrad-

our children perpetu-

that you need to put into

gender-based violence,

ing lesbian, gay, bisexual,

ate patriarchy, ableism

raising a kind, generous,

such as the 16 Days of

transgender, queer and/

and homophobia and

happy, egalitarian boy,”

Activism for No Violence

or questioning (LGBTQ+)

undermine the quest for

said Kopano Ratele, a

against Women and

ing and disempowering

40

“You have to think very

at different platforms

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


Children campaign.

affirmed and through

agency is crucial for the

teaching our children

their socialisation as hav-

empowerment of the

can, therefore, either

helpful, this view in fact

ing the capability and

girl-child, linked with her

entrench domination or

perpetuates patriarchy.

capacity to protect and

ability to be self-directed,

liberate the child and

The boy-child as well

provide for themselves.

an independent thinker

develop a child who

and agent.

understands and values

Contrary to being

as men are accord-

The boys as ‘protectors

ingly socialised to be the

and providers’ argu-

protector of the girl-child

ment burdens the boy. A

construct and those

and women, yet there

boy-child thus socialised,

hellbent on preserving

dismantle patriarchy, we

follows great discomfort

grows into an adult man

the status quo perform

must also be reflexive

when probed as to what

who believes that his

human rights violations

as officials, profession-

or whom are boys and

God-given responsibility

and othering through

als and activists; paying

men protecting girls and

is to protect and provide

‘homophobic lesbian

attention to the ways

women from.

for the woman. Already

rape’, violence and mur-

in which the ideas we

that socialisation creates

der of LGBTIQA+ persons.

share replicate the same

Currently, the way we

Society’s binary gender

gender equality. As we struggle to

discourse that produces

construct heterosexual

an imbalanced power

relationships revere

relation and demands

masculinity as dominant.

a certain emotional

Importance of language

How we speak and disci-

detachment.

Language is therefore a

reflect and reimagine

very important means for

the way we conduct

pline children generally

Teaching boys that

inimical gender relations. We must continuously

defeats the purpose of

they are the protectors of

constructing our reality.

gender development

creating a non-sexist

girls disempowers them

In the home, the values

work, since we are part

society.

by creating a delusion

and norms are transmit-

of the same culture and

of power coupled with

ted through language;

language and therefore

emotional stunting which

in the community, the

must devote ourselves to

may change into anger

interaction is through

unlearning toxic ideas,

and violence when they

language; in school,

sexism, homophobia

It is critical to understand

are not able to enact

church and work, the

and transphobia in not

why the idea of boys and

that male role.

language is the vehicle

only our actions but also

of communication.

our lexicon. All oppres-

Negative gender attitudes men as providers and

Positioning the girl-child

It is through language

sion must end, including

caregiver who is a man

that culture, values and

that permeating through

tive gender attitudes

is disempowering and

norms are transmitted,

language, as we build a

and behaviour. It is an

creates co-dependent

and the levels of power

non-racial and non-sexist

idea that manifests and

relationships. Through

relations are constructed,

society.

demands stereotypical

respectability and grati-

demonstrated and en-

notions and it is problem-

tude to men, the cycle

trenched in the various

atic for girls and women

continues when she

social institutions.

to be seen as incapable.

socialises her children

Their agency must be

in the same way. Self-

protectors is problematic

as needing a boy or a

and perpetuates nega-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

The language we use in communicating and

*Ohara Diseko-Ngoma is the Commissioner at the Commission for Gender Equality.

41


PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Writer: More Matshediso

Grow the economy, buy local

products will ensure that

factured products will

the money spent by citi-

also assist the country

zens stays in the country.

to realise its dream of

“Public servants must remember that they are

economy, safeguarding

consumers and they

jobs and creating more

benefit from the tax base.

jobs for those who are

The conversations that

unemployed.

happen between the

Mashimbye says when

Minister of Finance and

people buy a product

unions are about not

or use a service that is

having enough resources

imported when a local

and trying to find ways

alternative exists, they are

to grow the tax base so

in fact jeopardising local

that enough money can

jobs.

be generated to deliver

Everyone, including

services to the citizens of

public servants, has a

South Africa.

role to play in turning

“We can only grow the tax base by making sure that the money stays in

B

restoring and growing the

the economy around, he stresses. Mashimbye has worked

the country and that the

for Proudly SA for 13 years,

disposal income spent by

having started as the

South Africans contrib-

institution’s chief financial

utes to the growth of the

officer. He also served as

economy.”

chief operations officer

He adds that pub-

and acted as the CEO

lic servants are direct

before he was perma-

beneficiaries of the tax

nently appointed nearly

base and they should

four years ago.

not spend most of their

He previously worked for

y supporting

tive Officer (CEO) Eustace

disposable income on

the former Department

South African

Mashimbye. Proudly SA is

products that come from

of Trade and Industry,

products and ser-

the country’s only official

outside South Africa’s

Telkom and Edcon.

vices, public servants can

buy local campaign. It

borders because that

contribute to the country’s

serves the interests of all

means they will be sup-

accounting officer

economic growth.

As the CEO, he is the

local manufacturers and

porting jobs outside the

responsible for organisa-

This is according to

producers in the country.

country instead of local

tional management and

Proudly South African

Mashimbye says buying

businesses.

for driving Proudly SA’s

(Proudly SA) Chief Execu-

42

locally manufactured

Buying locally manu-

strategy.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


New initiative to promote buying local In an effort to make locally manufactured products accessible to consumers, Mashimbye says Proudly SA is a partner in the RSAMade initiative. “This new e-commerce website gives South African manufacturers the opportunity to advertise their products to local and global consumers.

fabric face masks.

and businesses.

portal to source their

It remains imperative

All companies listed on

to display their locally

that reliable sources of

the RSAMade online por-

any medical grade stock

manufactured products

locally made masks are

tal have confirmed that

back to essential servic-

on the website, which

easily available, to help

they are genuine manu-

es,” says Mashimbye.

enables them to reach a

curb the rate of infec-

facturers that produce

much larger retail field.”

tions and enable South

locally made products,

Africans to comply with

support local jobs and

Making a difference

down was announced by

the mandate that makes

operate under condi-

“Most of our programmes

President Cyril Ramapho-

wearing masks in public

tions that promote worker

are funded by the DTIC

sa in March, the online

compulsory, says Mashim-

health and safety.

and we rely a lot on part-

portal (rsamade.co.za)

bye.

Merchants are also able

When the national lock-

was used as a platform

The RSAMade portal

The portal also links

masks and to liberate

nerships, so I spend much

corporate buyers with

of my time developing

for local fabric face mask

came about after dis-

mask producers and dis-

strategic partnerships

manufacturers to sell their

cussions with the South

plays the manufacturer’s

and getting sponsors for

products to the public.

African Clothing and

details, mask images,

the work of the organisa-

Textile Workers’ Union;

production capacity per

tion,” he says.

tiative helped the coun-

the Department of Trade,

week and unit costs.

try’s clothing and textile

Industry and Competition

“We must support our

sector to retain jobs and

(DTIC); and the Manufac-

local businesses, which

that advance the work of

support the economy,

turing Circle, around ways

have the capacity to pro-

Proudly SA, include:

while also ensuring that

to align the clothing and

duce sufficient masks to

• Localisation com-

local clothes manufac-

textile manufacturing

meet the country’s needs.

mitments – This

turers were able to meet

industry’s initiatives with

We call on all corporates

initiative ensures that

the pressing demand for

the needs of the public

and retailers to use the

the private sector

Mashimbye says the ini-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

Other initiatives introduced by Mashimbye

43


PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

with strategic buyers. “This

To buy locally manu-

will enable your business

factured products online,

to expand, whether it is

public servants can visit

through giving you more

www.rsamade.co.za or

exposure, linking you with

www.proudlysa.co.za

more opportunities or both of you creating a product or initiative that can benefit you in the long run.” Proudly SA continues to form partnerships with industry bodies, associations and corporates that fund or support initiatives that benefit local manufacturers and entrepreneurs. Despite the successes

Proudly SA CEO Eustace Mashimbye.

that Proudly SA has achieved over the years,

commits to procuring

that local businesses

Mashimbye says fund-

local products, where

are given preference

ing remains one of the

possible. Retailers

over businesses from

organisation’s major

and hotels that buy

abroad, where pos-

challenges.

furniture are among

sible. It also tracks

“We do not have

those that have

that suppliers who

enough money to

committed to buying

win tenders first try

educate consumers. We

locally manufactured

and source products

need to tell every single

products. Mashimbye

and services locally.

South African repeatedly

says the private sector

Proudly SA also uses

that they have to choose

now knows that local

this platform to share

locally made products in

products can be

tenders put out by

order to help the coun-

sourced through the

various government

try’s economy grow.”

Proudly SA database.

spheres with local

• Tender monitoring

44

businesses.

To deal with this challenge, Proudly SA is

system – Proudly SA

Mashimbye encourages

formulating partnerships

monitors the award-

local manufacturers and

with organisations that

ing of government

entrepreneurs to consider

can help spread the buy

tenders to ensure

establishing partnerships

local message.

About the CEO Mashimbye is a qualified financial accountant, who studied at Tshwane University of Technology and the University of South Africa, majoring in financial accounting and corporate law. He is completing his studies towards his corporate governance qualification through the Chartered Secretaries Institute of South Africa. Mashimbye is the father of twins and enjoys being with them. He loves watching soccer, reading and spending time with his small circle of friends. “I am also a parttime soul and rhythm and blues deejay,” he adds.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


Brave Conversations that Uplift and Drive Change

1 - 2 October 2020

Book now Brought to you by TopCo


INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Writer: Allison Cooper

SADC approves Vision 2050 S

outhern African

Relations and Coopera-

the development of the

Development

tion Minister Naledi Pan-

SADC Post-2020 Agenda,

Community

dor led a South African

by focusing on the SADC

(SADC) leaders have ap-

delegation to the virtual

Vision 2050 and the Re-

proved a new vision and

meeting of the SADC

vised Regional Indicative

implementation plan for

Council of Ministers.

Strategic Development

the region. This was done during

46

The SADC Council of Ministers, responsible for

Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030. The summit approved

the 40th Ordinary Ses-

overseeing the function-

the SADC Vision 2050

sion of the SADC Summit

ing and development of

and RISDP 2020-2030.

of Heads of State and

the region and ensuring

Government which was

policies and decisions

hosted virtually by Mo-

taken are implemented,

SADC Vision 2050

zambique recently.

deliberated on key issues

“The SADC Vision 2050 is

Prior to the summit,

on the region, includ-

based on a firm founda-

Minister of nternational

ing a status report on

tion of peace, security

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


President Filipe Nyusi in

and democratic govern-

lisation of resources

ance and premised on

from the region and

and awareness pro-

three interrelated pillars,

external sources to

grammes to trigger

namely industrial de-

fast-track the imple-

and maintain interest,

on us to share experienc-

velopment and market

mentation of SADC

awareness and par-

es of resilience and in-

integration, infrastructure

policies and pro-

ticipation of the SADC

novation that will enable

development in support

grammes and move

citizenry and member

us to achieve, without

of regional integration,

away from reliance

state officials respon-

fail, the objectives spelt

and social and human

on international

sible for driving the

out in the RISDP for the

capital development,”

cooperating partners,

regional integration

welfare of present and

said a statement issued

towards a more diver-

agenda.

future generations,” he

after the summit.

sified approach.

• strengthen visibility

Both the SADC Vision

“The theme also calls

added.

The RISDP 2020-2030 re-

• improve the imple-

places the Revised RISDP

mentation of SADC

30 envision a peaceful,

2015-2020 that lapsed in

policies and pro-

middle- to high-income

SADC and COVID-19

March 2020, said SADC

grammes, through the

industrialised region,

The economic perfor-

Executive Secretary Dr

effective realisation

where all citizens enjoy

mance of the SADC

Stergomena Lawrence

of roles and respon-

sustainable economic

region slowed in 2019,

Tax.

sibilities undertaken

well-being, justice and

compared to previous

by various actors and

freedom.

years, with the average

Vision 2050 sets out

2050 and RISDP 2020-

his opening address.

the SADC’s long-term

entities through insti-

aspirations over the next

tutional reforms at the

Summit, ‘SADC: 40 Years

Product growth being

30 years, while the RISDP

levels.

Building Peace and

two percent lower than

Security and Promot-

an average of 2.9 percent from 2016 to 2018.

2020-30 outlines the

• strengthen compli-

The theme for the 40th

real Gross Domestic

proposed development

ance by member

ing Development and

trajectory until 2030.

states through the

Resilience in the Face

Vision 2050 seeks to:

implementation of

of Global Challenges’,

line with weak commod-

• create a conducive

effective compliance

highlighted the need to

ity prices, slowdown in

environment to foster

monitoring and as-

enhance socio-econom-

global economic activity

regional coopera-

surance mechanisms

ic development in an

and escalated global

tion and integration

to track progress in

environment of peace

trade tensions, with the

and uphold the free

implementation of

and stability, even as

severity varying across

movement of goods,

SADC programmes,

adversities caused by cli-

member states.

people or labour,

and compliance to

mate change and other

capital and services.

protocols and legal

global challenges per-

gional inflation increased

instruments.

sist, said Mozambique’s

to an average of 12.1

• accelerate the mobi-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

The deterioration was in

Provisionally, annual re-

47


INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

across the region and Regional Standard Operating Procedures for the Management and Monitoring of CrossBorder Road Transport at Designated Points of Entry and COVID-19 checkpoints. “The guidelines were revised in June, informed by the lessons learnt from implementation, and continue to guide the SADC region to balance, realign, harmonise and coordinate COVID-19 response measures with the requirements for trade and transport facilitation and to percent in 2019, from

COVID-19.

and, at the same time,

promote safe trade and

an average of 8.2 per-

“The socio-economic

cushioning national

transport facilitation for

cent in 2018. In 2020,

fabric of member states

economies from the

economic growth and

the regional economic

has been negatively

debilitating effects of

poverty alleviation in

growth is expecting a

impacted and brought

the pandemic,” he said.

the SADC region,” said

contraction of about

under severe stress,

three percent, mainly

requiring extraordinary

need to facilitate the

due to the adverse im-

measures.

movement of essential

vaccine or treatment

goods and services

for COVID-19 is found,

during lockdowns and

which might take a

pact of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

“It is nonetheless gratifying that the measures

Recognising the

Dr Tax. He added that until a

and initiatives being im-

state of emergen-

while, the region should

the region has been

plemented at national

cies, SADC developed

remain pragmatic and

operating under very

and regional levels are

Guidelines on Harmo-

vigilant by considering

difficult and challeng-

yielding positive results

nisation and Facilita-

not only health require-

ing conditions since

in the containment of

tion of Cross-Border

ments but also socio-

March 2020, due to

the spread of COVID-19

Transport Operations

economic imperatives.

According to Dr Tax,

48

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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OPINION

Writer: Director-General of GCIS Phumla Williams

Leading communication during epidemics

T

he absence of

cal health issues should

first case of COVID-19 was

At the recent Africa We-

be conveyed in a way

recorded on 14 February

binar on Leading through

that makes sense and

2020 in Egypt.

cine elevates prevention

Communications during

reassures citizens. Com-

measures as a coun-

Epidemics in Africa

munication should also

Ramaphosa, in his

try’s first line of defence

and the Role of Media,

be truthful and credible

opening remarks as

against the onslaught of

convened by the Govern-

to overcome any mistrust

the AU Chairperson

the virus.

ment Communication

that typically follows a

at the Conference on

pandemic.

Africa’s Leadership Role

a Coronavirus (COVID-19) vac-

of the virus.

To create awareness

and Information System

of these measures and

(GCIS), communicators

effect behaviour change,

and media professionals

reliable information

from across the continent

needs to be shared with citizens so that they can

President Cyril

in COVID-19 Vaccine cess, stated how Africa

exchanged best commu-

Collaboration and communication

nication practices.

During the webinar, Ebba

addressing resource

Development and Achas been innovative in

make informed decisions

While this is a difficult

Kalondo, the spokesper-

constraints through the

on protecting themselves

period for many African

son of the African Union

establishment of the AU

and their families.

nations, it is also an

(AU) Commission, shared

COVID-19 Response Fund,

important time of learn-

the importance of col-

the Africa Medical Sup-

provides accurate, useful,

ing, particularly around

laboration and commu-

pliers Platform, and the

and up-to-date informa-

public health commu-

nication among African

Partnership to Accelerate

tion has become an es-

nication. The new social

nations to limit the

COVID-19 Testing.

sential tool in a country’s

distancing regulations

spread of the virus. She

mitigating strategy. The

present an opportunity

noted that the continen-

pandemic has however

to explore creative ways

tal response, coordinated

Learning from past experience

changed the way many

to communicate with

by the Africa Centres

Africa is on par with the

governments engage

citizens.

for Disease Control and

rest of the world in re-

For communication to

Prevention (AfricaCDC),

sponding to pandemics

to-face interactions are

be effective, the panellists

has been implemented

and was a leading player

limited due to the nature

highlighted that techni-

across Africa since the

in the development of a

Communication that

with their citizens as face-

50

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


vaccine in response to

platforms are useful in

media rather than wait

requiring intervention. Ac-

the 2015 Ebola outbreak

communicating, technol-

for a crisis to foster these

cording to the research,

in West Africa. Further-

ogy platforms such as

relations.

over 90 percent of South

more, Africa is a signifi-

WhatsApp and social

In South Africa our re-

cant vaccine manufac-

media helped dissemi-

sponse to the pandemic

stand the basic health

turer and has developed

nate information quickly.

was through a compre-

protocols that they need

innovative ways to deliver

While technology has

hensive communication

to adhere to.

Africans know and under-

vaccines to areas on the

helped drive communica-

campaign to inform the

We also amplified our

continent that have no

tion, its limited availability

nation about measures

interventions by building

cold chains.

to access online learn-

to curb the spread of the

partnerships with the pri-

ing in east and southern

virus. It focused on media

vate sector and various

are learning how to deal

Africa has curtailed learn-

engagement, paid-for ad-

community-based and

with a pandemic, Africa

ing during the pandemic.

vertisement in electronic

faith-based organisations.

has had meaningful les-

New research by the

broadcasting, print, face-

They were provided infor-

sons from dealing with

United Nations Children’s

to-face engagement and

mation packages which

Ebola, Middle East Res-

Fund shows that more

digital media platforms.

were shared with their

piratory Syndrome and

than half of the children

Yellow Fever. Jessica Il-

in the region do not have

unga, the former commu-

the tools when it comes

nications director for the

to online learning. There

Clear, concise and consistent messages

Department of Health in

is a however a commit-

Transparency and

the Democratic Republic

ment in South Africa and

constant communica-

of the Congo during the

across the continent to

tion became key tools to

with the fallout from the

Ebola outbreak, affirmed

close the technology

empower communities

COVID-19 pandemic in

that communicating in

learning gap.

in understanding the

the coming months, com-

virus and how to protect

munication will play an

While many countries

a timely and transparent

Media was identified

respective audiences. The GCIS also used community-based media to reach various communities at grass-roots level. As the continent deals

manner had helped to

as an integral part of dis-

themselves against it. We

even more critical role in

mitigate the impact of

seminating information,

remained focused on the

ensuring that our citizens

the Ebola virus on the

conveying to citizens the

key principles of keep-

have access to informa-

economy.

risks but also measures of

ing our messages clear,

tion and are empowered

prevention. Dr Oscar Van

concise and consistent,

to make decisions in

pandemic, information

Heerden, International

with the aim of effecting

Africa’s recovery. Through

gaps usually create the

Relations scholar at the

behavioural change in

the power of communi-

space for misinformation

Mapungubwe Institute

our communities.

cation we can also con-

which is often taken at

for Strategic Reflection

Our research also

vey hope to the people

face value and therefore

(MISTRA), highlighted

assisted us to obtain

of our continent that we

difficult to correct. While a

that communicators

feedback on the impact

shall emerge stronger

combination of tradi-

should continuously

of our messages which

and more resilient.

tional and new media

build relationships with

helped to identify gaps

She added that in a

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

51


IN OTHER NEWS

National Treasury publishes COVID-19 tenders President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the online publication of a list of all Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Source: SAnews

transparency and accountability when it comes to allegations of corruption in the COVID-19 procurement process,” President Ramaphosa said. National Treasury will regularly update the

related government expenditure as his-

online register to ensure informa-

toric.

tion remains current.

The Office of the Chief Procurement

“By publishing these lists, we

Officer (OCPO) published a full list

have honoured our prom-

of all companies which have

ise to the South African

been awarded contracts by

people. They enable proper scrutiny of the

government for the supply of

details of all compa-

goods and services relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, on

nies that have received

the National Treasury website

tenders for COVID-19-

recently.

related services,” President Ramaphosa said.

The list includes COVID-19 procurement information from all provinces, national departments and over

The register of COVID-19-related procurement may be found at www.treasury.gov.za

70 public entities. “This measure is unprecedented, and a clear demonstration of government’s commitment to

Strategy to help SA address climate change

leverage opportunities, and outlines the required

South Africa’s National

resources for such ac-

Climate Change Adap-

tion, whilst demonstrat-

tation Strategy (NCCAS),

ing progress on climate

which supports the

change adaptation,”

country’s ability to meet

said Environment, Forest-

its obligations in terms

ry and Fisheries Minister

of the Paris Agreement

Barbara Creecy.

on Climate Change, has

The NCCAS outlines a set of objectives, inter-

been approved. “This strategy defines

52

those vulnerabilities and

ventions and outcomes

the country’s vulner-

to enable the country

abilities, plans to reduce

to give expression to its

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


commitment to the Paris

National Development

elements of the Paris

Agreement.

Plan’s vision of creating

Agreement: mitigation,

for parties to support

a low-carbon, climate

adaptation and means

clear global adaptation

tation with all relevant

resilient economy and a

of implementation.

goals with timelines as in

stakeholders and ap-

just society.

Developed in consul-

“To achieve this will

“There is also a need

the Paris Agreement,” she

proved by Cabinet, the

The Minister is opti-

NCCAS aims to reduce

mistic that when the

dictable and adequate

the vulnerability of

the 26th session of the

finance, technology and

originally scheduled to

society, the economy

Conference of the Par-

capacity building mitiga-

take place from 9-19 No-

and the environment

ties (COP26) does take

tion and adaptation sup-

vember 2020 in Glasgow,

to the effects of climate

place, it will result in a

port, including securing

United Kingdom, has

change.

commitment for higher

carbon market share of

been postponed due to

ambition on all the

proceeds.

the COVID-19 pandemic.

It gives effect to the

require additional, pre-

added. COP26, which was

sion of building a modern, growing and successful province.” The Premier added that health and education are priority areas for the province and that these two departments take up the bulk of the provincial budget. Changes need to occur in these departments as they strive to turn the situation around for the benefit of the people, especially the youth, he said. The Premier said the initiative would also restore dignity in communities and save parents from spending nights queuing to get their children registered at a school.

2021 school registration goes online in Northern Cape The Northern Cape has launched its first user-friendly online schools registration system for 2021 admissions.

“We are pleased to announce that the online admission system eliminates possible delays of over 1 000 applications per year. “This implies not only a dignified service but also an efficient system.” The system is expected to open from 14 to 30

Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul described

September 2020, while 199 fully equipped walk-in

this move as a major milestone in efforts to modern-

centres across all five districts will be available to

ise the province.

assist parents without access to the Internet and

“As this new administration, we articulated a vi-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

related services.

53


PROVINCIAL FOCUS

Writer: Dale Hes

North West avoids COVID-19 surge I

n North West, collaborative efforts between government, the

private sector and civil society have shielded the province from the worst impacts of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). North West has consistently ranked towards the bottom half on the list of provinces with the most COVID-19 cases and deaths.

A screening, testing and contact tracing programme takes place in Setlagole village, Nor th West.

The work of the Provincial Command Council

becoming hotspots for

demic, managed to forge

Bojanala district – a hot-

has been in line with

COVID-19. The provincial

partnerships with the

spot district – through the

national guidelines, and

government has been

Minerals Council of South

Rustenburg Health Forum,

appropriate enforcement

quick to recognise this,

Africa, which includes

which comprises officials

of regulations, along with

engaging extensively with

all the mining houses

from the Bojanala District

vigorous testing and trac-

mining houses to deal

conducting business

Health Department and

ing strategies, have been

with confirmed cases

in this province and all

mining house representa-

effective at keeping case

and prevent the spread

other big business across

tives.

numbers relatively low.

of the virus in mines.

the province; so as to pull

“The MEC for Health,

Premier Job Mokgoro

together all the available

Madoda Sambatha,

Protecting the mining sector

said that forging partner-

resources at our disposal

has been visiting and

ships has been critical

towards the fight against

engaging with the mining

Mining is critical to the

in the province’s fight

the spread of COVID-19.”

houses in the province to

economy of the province.

against the virus.

However, mines also pose a significant risk of

54

“We have, since the outbreak of the pan-

The most notable of

assess the levels of com-

these partnerships is the

pliance with lockdown

progress made in the

regulations in that space.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


“It is very key that mine-

Command Council and

firm stance against cor-

and the JB Marks Local

workers are screened be-

measures have been

ruption.

Municipality in Potchef-

fore they start work and

taken to ensure the avail-

those who come from

ability of personal protec-

hotspot provinces like

tive equipment (PPE),

COVID-19 procurement

Western Cape, Gauteng

psycho-social support

In August, Mokgoro

in the public domain

and the Eastern Cape

and (flu) vaccination of

instructed all provincial

regarding COVID-19

should be screened and

frontline workers,” said the

government departments

expenditure, in particular

tested before they start

Premier.

work,” said the Premier.

Hospital capacity North West acted swiftly to ensure that the prov-

stroom. “Government is aware of the reports that are

and public entities to

in the Ngaka Modiri Mole-

MEC Madoda Samba-

submit reports relating to

ma District and JB Marks

tha said that the depart-

all procurement done in

Local Municipality.

ment is working closely

connection with COV-

with private health

ID-19 PPE and medical

ters relating to the two

practitioners.

supplies.

municipalities are with

“The Department of

“The expenditure mat-

“Let me be clear from

the law-enforcement

ince is prepared should

Health, as the lead

the onset that the North

agencies and we are

a surge in cases materi-

department in the fight

West Provincial Govern-

encouraged about the

alise.

against COVID-19, is

ment will fully cooperate

manner in which the

working with private

with the Cabinet Com-

law-enforcement agen-

the province has been

health practitioners to

mittee announced by the

cies are dealing with the

enhanced by collabora-

ensure the standardised

President to deal with the

matters.”

tion between the public

management of patients

alleged corruption in all

Internal audits of all

and private health as

across the province

COVID-19 procurement.

provincial departments

well as the mining sec-

and the department is

“We are also coop-

tors.

continuously monitor-

erating, in full, with the

ing standard operating

Special Investigating Unit

among others, on

enhance the capacity of

procedures and tools for

(SIU) in line with the proc-

whether departments

hospitals to ensure that

managing COVID-19 pa-

lamation by the President

are assessed or manage

services can be rendered

tients in both the public

allowing it to conduct

the risk with regard to this

should the need arise.”

and private sectors.”

wide-ranging investiga-

expenditure and whether

tions into alleged and

the prescribed procure-

“Hospital capacity in

“We will continue to

Staff wellness is also a

The province has spent

are also taking place. “The audits focus,

key part of the province’s

R124 million in the fight

suspected acts of corrup-

ment processes were

preparedness.

against COVID-19, which

tion in COVID-19-related

followed, whether prices

includes the procure-

procurement,” said the

paid are market-related

our staff wellness is taken

ment of PPE, ventilators

Premier.

and in accordance with

care of and this is an

and oxygen points.

“We have ensured that

The SIU is investigat-

price determinations

Premier Mokgoro has

ing two municipalities in

and whether the quality

ue to improve on. This has

heeded President Cyril

North West – the Ngaka

of goods received is com-

been a key priority for

Ramaphosa’s call for

Modiri Molema District

pliant with prescribed

the Provincial COVID-19

government to take a

Municipality in Mahikeng

standards,” he added.

area that we will contin-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

55


SANPARKS

– GOING PLACES BY FIONA WAKELIN

Walking into the office of South African

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS

National Parks (SANParks) CEO Fundisile

OVER THE LAST 25 YEARS?

Mketeni is like a breath of fresh air – and

“Inclusivity has been one of our major

not just an escape from the hot, dry, dusty

accomplishments. We cannot do it alone

streets of Pretoria. Mketeni exudes positivity

and have thus been involved in a number

and mental agility, is solutions-driven and the

of productive public–private partnerships

conversation is fast-paced, optimistic and

(PPPs) that have attracted overseas

far-ranging – just what you’d expect from

markets and which has meant we have

the head of “a country within a country”.

managed to grow our revenue.

SANParks has undergone a radical

“The National Environmental

transformation of vision, mission and

Management of Protected Areas Act (Act

purpose since 1994 – and has transformed

57 of 2003) officially mandated SANParks

from managing flora and fauna to

to create destinations for nature-based

becoming a major partner in the

tourism in a manner that is not harmful

socio-economic development realm,

to the environment. This generated the

working closely with various government

SANParks Commercialisation Strategy in

departments to ensure delivery for all

2000 in a bid to enhance the parks as

South Africans.

nature tourism destinations by diversifying tourism offerings in partnership with the

Through socio-economic interventions

private sector.

managed by SANParks, rural poverty has become a catalyst for economic

“Through this strategy, SANParks has

development – small businesses,

earned a total income of R816-million

supply chain opportunities and

through 45 PPPs ranging from cable

entrepreneurialism are all catalysed by

cars, luxury lodges and restaurants to

this dynamic organisation.

adventure activities.

Pre-1994, in the Parks Board days, the

“The Tourism Investment Summit in 2017

mandate was just to manage animals,

themed ‘Tourism for all: Transform, Grow

plants and people but with the National

and Sustain’, offered 54 new opportunities

Parks Act all the old legislation was

for investment into sustainable tourism –

repealed and a new era was ushered

President Ramaphosa learned from us!

in, balancing conservation with tourism and ensuring that SANParks became

“Land claims have presented new

“the pride and joy” of all South Africans.

opportunities and partnerships, as has the

At the close of the last financial year,

issue of beneficiation with a percentage of

SANParks received six million visitors into

our revenue and new concessions going to

its 19 parks.

communities.

INCLUSIVITY HAS BEEN ONE OF OUR MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WE CANNOT DO IT ALONE AND HAVE THUS BEEN INVOLVED IN A NUMBER OF PRODUCTIVE PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS (PPPS) THAT HAVE ATTRACTED OVERSEAS MARKETS


ADVERTORIAL

LAND CLAIMS AND BENEFICIATION

“We are a renowned global leader

previously disadvantaged communities

in biodiversity conservation and base

(PDI) nationwide..

management decisions on best available The Restitution of Land Rights

research. We employ 50 scientists who,

“Out of the 160 applications received for

Act of 1994 allowed for

together with external research collaborators,

game donations, only nine were supported.

communities who were

produce about 200 peer-reviewed scientific

It is important for government to have a

papers per year from the 350 research

programme to support these emerging

projects registered in our parks. This sound

farmers – aftercare is crucial for success

environmental and social research is key

and viability.”

dispossessed through forced removals post-1913 to reclaim their land. In 2008 the Cabinet took a decision whereby the application of equitable redress as opposed to land restitution was approved

to SANParks’ ability to execute its critical mandate of protecting and managing South

WHAT EXCITING PLANS ARE IN THE PIPELINE?

Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.”

“Enterprise development. We are busy with socio-economic policies and will be

as the only option for settlement

HOW IS SANPARKS CONTRIBUTING TO

inviting the private sector and government

of the land claims in the Kruger

INCREASED EMPLOYMENT?

departments to join us in job creation and

National Park.

“Managing over 15 000 beds makes us a

fighting poverty. We are ready!

major player in South Africa’s tourism industry. The first phase of the equitable redress was implemented on 21 May 2016 at Skukuza when the then President of the Republic of South Africa accompanied by the Ministers of the then Department of Environmental Affairs and Department of Rural Development and Land

We have a workforce of 4 500 permanent

“We will be rolling out investments and

employees, with more than 1 200 working

beneficiation.

on other projects such as land rehabilitation, water and fire. Our PPPs have helped create

“A new national park is about to be

employment.

declared – the area in the Karoo that surrounds the Square Kilometre Array – the

“The Biodiversity Economy is one of the

largest radio telescope ever built which is

Operation Phakisa Greening programmes

collocated in Australia and in Africa.

Reform handed out financial

headed by Department of Environment,

compensation to six communities

Forestry and Fisheries. During the first

“We are excited by the green energy

out of 16 land claims in the

biodiversity conference in 2015, SANParks

programme and operating off the grid

Kruger National Park.

pledged to donate 1 500 heads of game to

using wind and solar. We are engaging

its neighbouring communities and in 2018 at

with different partnerships doing a feasibility

the second conference, SANParks pledged

study; currently Skukuza and Lower Sabi are

3 000 heads of game to be donated or

already on solar.

The settlement agreement made provision for financial settlement for households and a further lump sum to be used as base amount to fund a beneficiation scheme which created access to business opportunities inside and outside the Kruger National Park for investment, shareholding and employment purposes.

loaned to South African communities and emerging game farmers. SANParks through

“As we expand, we plan to shrink our carbon

its adaptive management approach has

footprint, thereby reducing our consumption

divided the wildlife economy into two

of fossil fuels and water consumption.

categories: • G ame donations to communities neighbouring the park. • G ame loans to emerging farmers from

“SANParks is ready and excited about the future in South Africa, the region and the continent!”

Contact Information: Telephone: 012 426 5000 Website: www.sanparks.org Physical Address: 643 Leyds Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria Postal Address: South African National Parks, PO Box 787, Pretoria 0001


SANPARKS: A RENOWNED GLOBAL LEADER IN BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION For decades, conservation has become intertwined with

each visitor who passes through our gates contributes

tourism in a co-dependent relationship that is central to

directly to the maintenance and sustainability of South

the sustainability of both disciplines. It is estimated that

Africa’s conservation estate. SANParks is indisputably

more than 50% of all tourists visiting a foreign country visit

a major player in South Africa’s tourism industry. Our

protected areas during their trip. Similarly, the returns

position in the industry is further underscored by the fact

from SANParks’ tourism arm is a significant contributor

that two of South Africa’s iconic tourist attractions –

to the sustainability of its conservation activities and

Table Mountain National Park and Kruger National Park

social responsibilities. Drawn to the hallmark of SANParks’

– are within our portfolio. There is a park for every season

pristine, unspoilt landscapes and abundance of wildlife,

and every reason.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

1. TABLE MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

2. W EST COAST NATIONAL PARK

This natural World Heritage Site is a haven of magnificent mountains plunging into crystal seas fringed with the bleached white sands of the Cape Peninsula. Voted one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in a global contest, this National Park attracts more than four million visitors a year.

The West Coast National Park lies just inland from the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay, and only

the offshore islands in

one-and-a-half hour’s drive

Saldanha Bay, which

from Cape Town. The key

together form

conservation areas of West

the Langebaan Ramsar

Coast National Park are

site, a wetland of

Langebaan Lagoon and

international importance.


ADVERTORIAL

3. AGULHAS NATIONAL PARK

4. GARDEN ROUTE NATIONAL PARK

Known as one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline in the world, the Garden Route on South Africa’s south coast is home to indigenous forests, lowland fynbos, a multitude of rivers and lakes, pristine beaches and rugged mountains. This National Park incorporates three distinct areas: Knysna, Wilderness and Tsitsikamma.

This park was established to protect a unique landmark, the southern tip of the African continent at Cape Agulhas, which is also the official meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic oceans. The windswept, ruggedly beautiful coastal plain conserves an area of botanical significance, the Lowland Fynbos, with about 1 751 plant species. There is also a rich cultural heritage including shellfish middens created by foraging Khoekhoen people before colonial settlement. Among the mysteries associated with this region are the many ships that were wrecked en route to the East.

5. KAROO NATIONAL PARK

Located in the Western Cape, on the southern slopes of the Nuweveld Mountains, Karoo National Park is a place of big skies and seemingly endless views. The park is a convenient stopover on the N1 route between Gauteng and Cape Town, about 500km away. The park lies in the semi-arid Nama-Karoo and Grassland biomes, and its complex environment, ranging from open plains to high mountains, provides many niches for animal and plant species. The park has a wide variety of endemic wildlife, with 58 mammal species, more than 200 bird species and a rich reptilian fauna including 18 snake species and five tortoise species. The park is famed for its dramatic landscape.


6. A DDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

7. GOLDEN GATE HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Now the third-largest national park in South Africa,

In the foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the northeastern Free State lies the

Addo Elephant National Park has expanded to

Golden Gate Highlands National Park, taking its name from the shades of gold

conserve a wide range of biodiversity, landscapes,

cast on the sandstone cliffs. The 32 690 hectare park is home to a variety of

fauna and flora. Established in 1931 to save 11

mammals and birds, including the rare bearded vulture and bald ibis. The park is

elephants on the brink of extinction, it is now home

best known for its geological, geomorphological and paleontological heritage

to more than 350, as well as 280 Cape buffalo, black

with rich geology dating back to 195–210 million years ago. Researchers

rhino, a range of antelope species and the rare

discovered a fossilised dinosaur egg in 1977 and a cluster of six eggs in 2005.

flightless dung beetle. It is the only park that is home to

This has led to an investment to build a Dinosaur Centre in the park, scheduled

the Big Seven (Big Five plus the great white shark and

to open in 2020. SANParks is eager to position the park as the ultimate 4x4 and

southern right whale). It is a perfect destination for the

adventure destination in South Africa. Private parties are invited to be part of

adventurous outdoor enthusiast and nature lover.

the exciting release of adventure opportunities in the park.

8. MARAKELE NATIONAL PARK

Marakele National Park lies in the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, just 250km from Johannesburg and 15km north of Thabazimbi. The park was declared in 1994 and is still in a phase of consolidation but its picturesque setting creates a spectacular bushveld experience. It is considered to have substantial development potential due to its location and proximity to Gauteng, making it an ideal weekend or breakaway option. There are currently few activities offered in the park due to the limited road network; however, this has been prioritised to enable the visitor to experience the full wonder of the park. New activities are aimed at diversifying the park’s offering and increasing the adventure element.


ADVERTORIAL

9. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Where nearly two million hectares of unrivalled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sights – this is real Africa. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks among the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park is a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. As the flagship of South African National Parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. Man’s interaction with the Lowveld environment over many centuries, from Bushman rock paintings to majestic archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela, is very evident in the Kruger National Park. These treasures represent the cultures, persons and events that played a role in the history of the Kruger National Park and are conserved along with the park’s natural assets. Every year more than 1.8 million visitors flock to South Africa’s leading game park.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Central Reservations: 012 428 9111 OR 082 233 9111 Physical Address: 643 Leyds Street, Muckleneuk, Pretoria

To read more about the investment opportunities available, visit www.sanparks.org

Postal Address: South African National Parks, PO Box 787, Pretoria 0001


FEATURE

Writer: Silusapho Nyanda

Promoting

indigenous

language use

M

any more peo-

South African Revenue

doing a very good job,”

ple will be able

Service (SARS), Depart-

Matebula says.

government services. “If people can access

to understand

ment of Public Works and

Despite this progress,

services in their home

and make use of govern-

Infrastructure (DPWI) and

many government de-

language, they would

ment services if they are

the Department of Sport,

partments and entities

utilise government ser-

communicated to in their

Arts and Culture (DSAC).

are not meeting indige-

vices more often. When

nous languages' promo-

you speak to someone

tion standards.

in their home language,

own language. According to the Pan

These departments all have language units

One of the challenges

they will feel comfortable

sional linguists, their

is that state entities, mu-

using that service as they

ing the use of indigenous

communication and

nicipalities and provincial

are serviced in a lan-

languages in the Public

documentation is of

and national govern-

guage they understand.

Service will also ensure

good quality and they

ment departments do

“To achieve this goal,

that more people feel

have developed proper

not have language units.

state entities, munici-

included in state pro-

language policies that

The lack of these units

palities and departments

grammes.

govern public servants’

means that there are no

must start to properly

language use.

professionals at these

resource language units

institutions to translate

that will be responsible

South African Language

manned by profes-

Board (PanSALB), promot-

PanSALB Acting Executive Head of Languages

“The DSAC is charged

Nikiwe Matebula says

with terminology develop-

documents and content

for translating docu-

several government

ment and the develop-

produced for public and

ments and translating

departments and entities

ment of languages in the

official use, she says.

between public servants

are promoting indig-

country, hence it is very

enous languages well, by

good in ensuring that all

ensuring that their infor-

languages are promoted.

Better access to services

mation is available in all

In our monitoring of the

Matebula adds that the

official languages. These

development and promo-

lack of these language

include the Government

tion of languages by the

services severely ham-

the use of indigenous

Communication and In-

state, we found that the

pers the ability of ordi-

languages is to have

formation System (GCIS),

GCIS, SARS and DPWI are

nary people to access

people who speak and

62

and members of the public when there is a language barrier,” she says. Another way to improve

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


write in the indigenous

promote communicating

in all nine provinces, the

works to ensure that gov-

language that is domi-

in all official languages.

institution is developing

ernment documents and

nant in the area, at the

This will formalise how

standardised spelling

messaging is available

service desks of public

translations and all

protocols in languages.

in different languages

service facilities.

language-related materi-

Standardised spell-

spoken in the province.

als are dealt with, says

ing will help to shape

In areas like Nquthu, we

Matebula.

indigenous languages

make sure that informa-

The PanSALB is readily available to assist

The use of professional

that often have different

tion is available in SeSo-

formulation of these poli-

linguists in the country’s

spelling for names, even

tho as this is a language

cies and units.

courts helps to ensure

though it’s the same lan-

which is widely spoken in

that people get a fair

guage, says Matebula.

the area.”

departments with the

Address citizens in their language

trial and justice is served

The PanSALB is also,

In addition to promoting

for all parties. “The use

through the NLBs, work-

the 11 official languages,

of professional transla-

ing to standardise Sign

the PanSALB is also

Matebula says govern-

tors in court ensures that

Language. Matebula

promoting the San, Khoe

ment officials must use

translations are accurate

explains that Sign Lan-

(this is the way to spell

indigenous languages

in terms of meaning and

guage used in Cape

the language, but the

when they address

the technical aspects of

Town differs from that

tribe is spelt Khoi) and

members of the public

a language. This ensures

used in Polokwane. This

Nama languages.

as this will help to get

that people who appear

has led to complaints

government’s message

in court understand all

from the public to the

PanSALB also promotes

across to communities.

that is happening,” says

PanSALB about news

multilingualism and

“If you have an MEC or

Matebula.

channel translators

ensures the protection of

during President Cyril

all languages commonly

Ramaphosa’s addresses

used by communities in

to the nation.

South Africa, including

Minister speaking in a

Matebula says the

community and they are

On the road to improvement

fluent in the language,

The PanSALB, which was

their speech should be

established in terms of

PanSALB is also work-

Hindi, Portuguese, Tamil,

written in Xitsonga.”

Section 6 of the Constitu-

ing with all spheres of

Telegu, Urdu, Arabic,

tion, is already in collabo-

government to promote

Hebrew, Sanskrit and

officials should respond

ration with several state

languages that are spo-

other languages used for

to communication in

entities, municipalities

ken in specific parts of

religious purposes.

the language that they

and departments to im-

the country.

received it.

prove the use of indig-

predominantly Xitsonga

In addition, government

Government should

enous languages.

“The NLBs promote the

German, Greek, Gujarati,

To ensure the increased use of indigenous lan-

use of a language that

guages in the country,

is dominant in a particu-

the Public Service must

PanSALB Act 59 of 1995

languages boards

lar area. For instance, in

chart the course in their

to develop policies that

(NLBs), which are based

KwaZulu-Natal, the NLB

usage, she adds.

also make use of the

Through its national

Through the NLBs, the

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

63


FEATURE

Writer: City Insight

Local government must capitalise on 4IR T

intelligence, quantum

and delivery. It changes

New technology

trial Revolution

computing, 3D printing,

mobility patterns, public

The research looked at

(4IR) or digitisa-

the internet of things,

transport, road and rail

implications of the 4IR for

tion is changing how the

electric vehicles, drones,

networks and impacts

South African municipali-

world functions, offering

additive manufacturing

spatial patterns. How-

ties, particularly their skills

the opportunity to rethink

and blockchain technol-

ever, it also presents new

needs and how munici-

development. The 4IR pro-

ogy.

challenges, particularly

palities address the 4IR

around jobs and skills,

in their strategic plan-

he Fourth Indus-

vides more efficient and

In the face of the

cost-effective technolo-

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

and has the potential to

ning. The research shows

gies, including increased

pandemic, this increased

deepen inequality due to

that to capitalise on the

connectivity, E-commerce,

connectivity has been

skewed access.

4IR, municipalities need

E-government, artificial

ramped up, enabling

to have the skills and

more people to work

gies eliminate jobs, whilst

capacity to adopt new

from home using video-

others demand new jobs

technology to improve

and skills. Actions need to

service delivery and

be taken now to em-

deepen democracy.

conferencing and conference calls. Technology

brace the opportunities

increases

the 4IR presents.

Concerns about job losses associated with

access to

A recent research report

banking,

by the Local Government

well-publicised examples

Sector Education and

such as the recent clo-

Training Authority (LG-

sures of bank branches.

SETA) studied the huge

However, new jobs are

potential of the 4IR to

also being created, for

transform our economy

example automation in

and society, examin-

Volkswagen’s Uitenhage

ing the opportunities it

plant enables the plant

provides for local govern-

to reach full capacity for

ment.

extended periods and

jobs, transport

64

Some new technolo-

the 4IR are valid, with

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


added 300 new jobs in

to local contexts and

supplies to hard-to-reach

blockchain and bioengi-

2018.

integrated with a regional

areas and 3D printers

neering to develop virtual

New jobs are being

strategy that is supported

can print medical sup-

power plants, sensor-

created in the science,

by the private sector and

plies, build temporary

based electric and water

technology, engineering

citizens.

shelters and rebuild

grids and solar cells. 3D

infrastructure.

printing can produce so-

and maths fields and

Although most strate-

include data analysis,

gies of national govern-

computer science and

ment departments and

nologies have recently

nents for small-scale wind

engineering.

major private sector

supported disrupted

turbines.

In health, 4IR tech-

lar roof tiles and compo-

The 4IR also means an

players acknowledge the

industrial supply chains

even greater demand for

4IR changes, our ICT infra-

in the COVID-19 crisis.

soft skills such as crea-

structure remains poor.

Examples of this include

Smart technology

an Italian hospital using

The research conducted

a 3D printer to produce

by LGSETA found that in

valves for an intensive-

South Africa, 4IR technol-

tivity, complex problem building, communication,

Collaboration needed

collaboration and criti-

Government spending on

care device and China

ogy is already having

cal thinking. Our current

ICT is relatively low, given

using drones to minimise

an impact at a local

education system needs

other national priorities.

risk and improve delivery

level. Municipalities have

to focus on these, and

While South Africa’s politi-

speed when transporting

implemented smart tech-

provide opportunities for

cal leadership has recog-

medical samples and

nology such as E-services,

lifelong learning and con-

nised the 4IR’s potential,

quarantine materials to

citizen portals, broad-

tinuous retraining.

implementation requires

high-risk areas.

band fibre rollouts, CCTV

solving, relationship

National government

collaboration between

Further opportunities

can play a critical role in

government, business

include integrated waste

facilities, private cloud of-

diffusing the 4IR technolo-

and social partners to

management, waste re-

ferings, internet access in

gies. This could include

address challenges and

duction through sharing

libraries, smart fines and

providing financial

leverage opportunities.

economies and intel-

building-management

Existing applications in

ligent packaging, ‘living’

systems. These range

ate legal framework,

certain countries enable

buildings, green spaces,

from large-scale, costly

expanding connectivity,

residents to identify issues

urban food production

systems to small-scale,

protecting data security,

and get feedback. They

and water management.

relatively cheap smart-

promoting research and

foster transparency and

Biotechnologies include

phone applications.

innovation and devel-

enhance trust. In disaster

cleaner energy sources,

oping new education

management, the inter-

bioplastics and improved

on how technology

programmes.

net of things and artificial

microbial waste manage-

can help overcome the

intelligence can predict

ment. For housing, drones,

barriers to a sustainable

also take proactive steps

and communicate poten-

3D printing and robots

future. Municipalities must

to address skills needs.

tial shocks and disasters,

can construct multi-func-

plan now for potentially

Municipal 4IR develop-

while blockchain can

tional buildings quicker.

disruptive 4IR technology,

ment strategies should

enhance cybersecurity,

Energy innovators use

despite mixed information

be focused, tailored

drones can deliver urgent

incentives, an appropri-

Local government can

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

the internet of things,

networks, data centre

It is important to focus

and limited resources.

65


FEATURE

However, the LGSETA report notes that the adoption of new technologies has varied across the country. An analysis of ICT skills in municipalities showed that across the eight metros and 249 local and district municipalities, 4 279 employees occupy base ICT positions. Of these, 2 641 are in metros and 1 638 in local and district municipalities. In 2018/19, 27 more people in base-ICT posts

Distribution of municipal ICT staff across South Africa

left municipalities than were recruited. Worrying,

democracy and sus-

Integrated Development

is the significant loss of

tainable development,

Plans; failure to see a

district municipalities. Government can play

managers and profes-

particularly at a local

4IR programme as an

a crucial role in devel-

sionals among them. Al-

level. Managed well, 4IR

overarching framework;

oping and promoting

most 3 000 high-demand

innovations can help

lack of integrated,

the skills needed for a

ICT persons work across

municipalities tackle

coordinated operations;

successful shift to the

municipalities, with over

major challenges,

a heavily regulated

4IR. Whilst many efforts

70 percent of these in

improve service delivery,

environment; insuf-

are the responsibility of

the metros.

safety and security and

ficient funding; limited

national government,

Overall, the data in

promote inclusion.

stakeholder buy-in; and

local government can

inadequate internal

take proactive steps to

capacity.

address skills needs. A

LGSETA’s report confirms that technical skills

Municipal planning

at local government

conventional wisdom

Finally, the shortage of

collaborative and co-

However, although

key ICT skills across mu-

operative approach is

level are in short sup-

the 4IR is firmly on the

nicipalities is a signifi-

essential.

ply, particularly in ICT.

national agenda, it has

cant concern, as is the

This article is part of a series

Losing more people in

yet to be factored into

digital divide between

reporting on research commis-

critical positions raises

municipal planning.

more

sioned by the Local Govern-

concerns.

Challenges include the

adequately staffed

ment Sector Education and

The 4IR provides an

lack of integration of

metros and less re-

Training Authority (Contact:

opportunity to promote

4IR strategies into the

sourced local and

matodzir@lgseta.gov.za)

66

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


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FEATURE FOCUS ON WOMEN

Writer: Allison Cooper

Say ‘no’ to burnout

prove ourselves, be heard and taken seriously. We and our knowledge and ideas are often overlooked, patronised or mansplained. Keeping our tempers while fighting to be heard is tiring.”

and burnout,” she says. One of these is the

I

fatigued and craving sugar, caffeine and

Most of Klipin’s burnout clients are women. “Studies show that

burden women face.

burden of responsibility.

Women are vulnerable to

“Women have a lot of

emotional and physical

roles and responsibilities

abuse, attack and exploi-

to fulfil. We are mothers,

tation.

daughters, sisters, wives,

f you’re constantly

Vulnerability is another

“We are constantly on

friends and carers. We

guard, looking over our

work, in and outside the

shoulders to make sure

home, and we play ac-

we are safe. We experi-

tive roles in our communi-

ence a surge of adrena-

ties.

line when we fear we are

“Men also play multiple roles, but it seems that my female clients are

not. The struggle to stay safe is tiring,” says Klipin.

carbs, you could be suffer-

women are more likely to

expected – by them-

ing from burnout.

experience burnout than

selves and others – to

Symptoms of burnout

men. Some may argue

play more roles than my

Burnout is a progres-

from Burnout, life coach

that this is because wom-

male clients. The constant

sive illness that starts

Judy Klipin describes

en are more comfortable

juggling of expectations,

off slowly and relatively

burnout as an existential

showing vulnerability and

roles and responsibilities

benignly but, unchecked,

emergency. “…It isn’t

seeking help,” she says.

is very tiring,” she adds.

it becomes increasingly

While there are many

Women also face the

In her book Recover

just a feeling of exhaus-

harder to reverse and

tion, being overwhelmed

reasons for this, chief

burden of patriarchy. “Be-

could ultimately lead to

and extremely stressed

among them is that wom-

ing a woman in a man’s

depression.

and anxious… it’s also

en bear some respon-

world, even though it isn’t

Klipin explains that

a feeling of listlessness

sibilities and burdens

nearly as exclusionary or

once you have experi-

and ineptitude, a lack of

that men do not. “These

manly as it once was, is a

enced severe burnout,

enthusiasm and excite-

burdens make women

lot to bear.

your body is scarred by it

ment,” she says.

susceptible to exhaustion

68

“We have to fight to

and will always be vulner-

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


able to repeat attacks.

refreshing. We feel tired

quiet: We all need

vest in the relation-

“We get burnout be-

all the time and minor

quiet time to rest, re-

ships that nourish

cause we push ourselves

physical or mental exer-

lax, meditate, journal

you. Pay them the

over and over to do

tion is exhausting. The

and sleep. Preferably

time, attention and

things that are wrong for

anguish and suffering

in silence.

effort that they de-

us. We take on too much,

we see all around is also

rest too little and pretend

overwhelming,” says

allow: You can make

get enough sleep

to be okay when we are

Klipin.

your life so much

and relaxation time

easier when you

to recharge.

anything but.

She explains that our

• A = ask, accept and

serve. Make sure you

Recovering from burn-

ability to enjoy and feel

allow yourself to ask

not having strong and

satisfied with our lives

for help, love, advice,

out is a slow process

clear boundaries, want-

– physically, mentally,

compliments, feed-

that focuses on two

ing to please others at

emotionally, socially and

back, etc.

steps. The first is regain-

our own expense and

spiritually – is compro-

pushing ourselves to the

mised.

“It’s a consequence of

brink in our quest to be

• N = nourish: Nourish

ing your energy and

your body, mind and

the second is changing

soul by eating nour-

your thought processes,

ishing food, thinking

beliefs and behaviours

noticed, appreciated

The spanner

and valued.”

While ‘putting a spanner

nourishing thoughts

so that it doesn’t happen again.

in the works’ usually has

and doing nourish-

tigue and craving sugar,

a negative connota-

ing things.

caffeine and carbs,

tion, this is exactly what

burnout also causes

you need to do when

is caused by having

each other to feel less

brain fog, social with-

you are suffering from

too many things on

overwhelmed and ex-

drawal and a lack of

burnout.

our plate. Remember,

ploited. We need to put

a ‘no’ to someone

down the burdens we

else is a ‘yes’ to me.

can and give ourselves

• E = exercise: Gentle

a beak. We can do this

Besides ongoing fa-

interest in your world.

The SPANNER is a tool

• N = no: Overwhelm

“Women need to support themselves and

“Our emotions be-

Klipin devised to help

come amplified and

burnout sufferers to re-

erratic. What used to ir-

gain and then maintain

exercise lets oxygen

by asking for help, learn-

ritate now enrages, what

their lifeforce.

in and stress out,

ing to say no and giving

used to be a slight worry

• S = self: Find and

releases adrenaline

ourselves permission to

now turns into panic.

honour yourself

and gets the blood

make new choices,” says

Our concentration is

through self-care,

flowing. It helps you

Klipin.

impacted.

self-love, self-com-

sleep better and im-

passion, becoming

proves your appetite

“We withdraw from relationships. We sleep

self-centred and self-

less or more and the

actualised.

sleep we do get is not

• P = peace and

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

for healthy food. • R = relationships, rest and relaxation: Rein-

For more information about burnout, visit Klipin’s website at www.judyklipin.com

69


FINANCIAL FITNESS

Writer: Silusapho Nyanda

Chargebacks: Know your rights G

lobal corona-

in disputes is caused by

quest by the cardholder.

the transaction process-

Once a bank receives

ing date, or the delivery

virus-enforced

consumers often not be-

lockdowns have

ing aware of their rights

a chargeback request

date of the goods or

resulted in a huge growth

related to these trans-

from the cardholder,

services, Steyn says.

in the number of peo-

actions, despite how

it must investigate the

ple using online buying

frequently they are now

matter.

platforms.

being used.

MasterCard and Visa’s rules say that a card-

“If it is established that

holder must first lodge

Online shopping

“In the event of dis-

the cardholder’s request

a dispute directly with

means that consum-

putes with merchants

is valid, the funds of the

the seller before ap-

ers can get what they

regarding such transac-

transaction will be deb-

proaching the bank for a

need without coming

tions, most consumers

ited from the merchant’s

chargeback. These rules,

into close contact with

are completely in the

account and returned to

however, do not apply in

people at stores. It is not

dark about their rights

the cardholder.”

cases of fraud.

without its challenges,

and obliga-

however, and one the

tions.”

most concerning is the

of those

reported to the Ombuds-

rights is

man for Banking Services

getting what

(OBS) arising from card-

is called a

not-present transactions

chargeback. A

(card transactions that

chargeback is a

occur while the buyer

reversal of a credit or

and seller are not in the

debit card transaction

same place).

that is initiated by the

Ombudsman for

Consumers may be expected to return the

One

sharp rise in disputes

Banking Services Reana

A chargeback must be filed within 120 days from

bank following a re-

Steyn says the increase

70

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


goods to the seller before requesting a chargeback. The Ombudsman

When can a chargeback be requested? A consumer can request

was not notified that

the use of a purchased

the date of service was

service due to concerns

unilaterally changed or

related to the pan-

postponed.

demic.

advises that when re-

a chargeback when

questing a chargeback,

the product they have

the goods do not arrive

also not be requested if

a written document

bought is damaged or

on schedule, or by the

a consumer is unable to

must be provided to

defective, if it is coun-

mutually agreed extend-

use the paid-for services

the cardholder’s bank,

terfeit despite being de-

ed delivery date,” warns

because of travel restric-

describing the nature of

scribed as the genuine

Steyn.

tions; has been charged

the dispute and giving

article, or when the seller

details of the disputed

is not honest about the

may even apply when

for failing to cancel a

transaction. This informa-

terms of the sale.

goods do not arrive as

reservation; has missed

promised as a result of

a flight which led them

tion includes the date

Tickets that arrive after

“It also applies when

She cautions that this

Chargebacks may

a no-show penalty

of the transaction, the

an event has already

travel delays or lock-

to miss a subsequent,

amount involved and

occurred also entitle a

down challenges.

separate, non-refund-

proof that notice of

buyer to a chargeback.

able service; or when

“It is vital that card-

chargeback if the prod-

When are chargebacks not allowed?

holders carefully read,

uct is not as described

There are circumstances

and clearly understand,

– it could be that the

in which chargebacks

the terms and condi-

product is the wrong size,

will not be allowed.

mistakenly applying for

tions of the purchase

colour, quantity or the

A chargeback can

a chargeback, consum-

before completing the

quality of workmanship is

be declined when

ers are advised to first

transaction. Do not click

not what was promised.

the product was sold

consult people with

If the seller is no longer

voetstoots (sold as is,

access to the card to

dispute was sent to the seller of the goods.

‘accept’ if you do not

In addition, Steyn adds that one can claim a

the buyer accepted a reasonable alternative compensation method from the seller. To avoid the hassle of

understand or agree

able to provide the ser-

at buyer’s risk). This rule

see if they authorised

with the policies.

vices that were paid for,

also applies when the

a purchase without the

a consumer is entitled to

condition of the product

cardholder’s knowledge.

a chargeback.

is clearly pointed out

“Before requesting a chargeback, it is important that cardhold-

“This is typically when

during the sale.

In the case of a transaction being fraudulent, Steyn advises

ers double check what

the merchant has gone

they originally agreed

out of business or has

demic conditions,

consumers to immedi-

to, as they are bound by

voluntarily ceased op-

chargebacks may also

ately report the disputed

those terms – even if they

erations – with no plan

not be claimed when

transaction to the bank,

did not read them,” says

to compensate consum-

a service is available

without approaching the

Steyn.

ers, or if the cardholder

but the buyer declines

merchant.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

In the current pan-

71


HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Writer: More Matshediso

Dealing with divorce D

ivorce can be a

pecially if the marriage

painful sepa-

was monogamous.

ration of two

Shuping says married

people who were once

people face many chal-

ferent belief systems,

married and loved each

lenges in their union and

which results in con-

other at a certain point in

sometimes they resort

flict.

their lives.

to divorcing instead of

This is according to

working things out or

money. • Unhealthy sexual

• Interfering or overinvolved in-laws.

relationship between the couple.

• The inability to con-

• Domestic violence.

ceive children.

Shuping says divorce

Ntwagae Shuping, a

taking remedial ac-

social worker supervisor

tion. Other times, even

at Bophelong Psychiatric

after trying everything to

Hospital in North West.

resolve the issues in the

or opinions to disci-

cess for both men and

He describes divorce

marriage, divorce is the

plining children.

women to deal with be-

as the death of marriage

only option.

and says it also impacts

The following issues

on the people who are

could lead to divorce:

close to the couple, es-

• Spouses having dif-

72

• Different approaches

• Infidelity or having

can be a difficult pro-

cause many people fear

children out of wed-

losing the status that

lock.

marriage lends them.

• Improper use of

“Another reason why

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


the divorcees experi-

through all the stages

include fighting for

of loss.

custody of the children, depression and

bouring a grudge against your ex-

to terms with divorce is

happen to them.”

the stigma that comes

partner. This grudge will slow down your healing. Harbouring

As a professional who

a grudge will destroy

sometimes provides

future relationships if

counselling to people

you want to remarry.

who have been affected

• Leave the door open

by divorce, Shuping has

for reconciliation.

a few tips for those who

never dreamt it would

• Guard against har-

the loss of assets.

How to survive a divorce

people struggle to come

• Allow yourself to go

ence challenges that

Shuping says there are

find it hard to accept the

various ways to get sup-

reality of being divorced.

port while going through

These are:

divorce. These include

• If you have done your

seeking professional help

best to salvage your

from a social worker or

marriage, honestly, let

psychologist, a religious

go.

leader or a private coun-

• Speak to the people who you trust and

sellor. While getting a divorce

who value you, such

ends a chapter in your

with a failed marriage.

involve the relational

as your support sys-

life – and you will feel a

In some cases, a spouse

separation of the couple.

tem.

range of emotions, from

may count the cost of

Divorce does not just

“It has emotional, men-

• Renew your strength

anger and loss to frustra-

what they did for the

tal, spiritual, financial

and try to start a new

tion and possibly relief

other person while they

and physical impacts on

life after divorce.

– he says it is important

were still in love and

those involved. They also

• If you think you are

to remember that it also

married.

fear the unknown,” Shup-

the cause of the

signals a new beginning.

ing adds.

divorce, ask for for-

“For others, it is the shock of the relationship

Sometimes, once a di-

collapsing because they

vorce has been finalised,

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

giveness and forgive yourself too.

73


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16072019 08:29


GROOMING AND ST YLE

Bold, vibrant

Compiled by: Nicholas Francis

1

and trendy designs

S

outh Africa is known for its vibrant people and cultures. Why not reflect that vibrancy in your

wardrobe with these beautiful designs that

3

all have that South African flair? Better yet, they are all from local designers.

2

4

76

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


1.

Khosi Nkosi, brown mud-cloth

pants, R460, available at Young

dress, R1 099, available at Young Designers Emporium. 2. 3.

4.

skirt, R2 490,

available at www.mantsho.com

available at www.maxhosa. 8.

Fundudzi Kofi wax printed

www.thabomakhetha.com

bomber R1 699, available at

Maxhosa by Laduma pattern

www.fundudzi.com 9.

House of Fabrosanz print

available at www.maxhosa.

peplum top, R950, available

africa

at www.houseoffabrosanz.

House of Fabrosanz Nguni print

myshopify.com

maxi dress, R2 150, available

6.

africa

Thabo Makhetha Kobo poncho

cre-neck cardigan, R4 982,

5.

Maxhosa by Laduma Nomkhitha

Mantsho track dress, R5 500,

with belt, R2 699, available at 10

Designers Emporium. 7.

5

10. Future Socks Mabala bamboo

at www.houseoffabrosanz.

white leopard print, R199,

myshopify.com

available at www.zando.co.za

Limits Unknown navy tribal

7

9

6 8

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

77


FOOD AND WINE

Compiled by: Gilda Narsimdas

Lekker local delights I

n celebration of

diced

onion and sauté until

heat. Adjust the season-

Heritage Month,

2 garlic cloves, minced

translucent.

ing with salt and pepper

we’ve chosen some

3 carrots, peeled and

Add bell peppers and

as needed. Serve in a bowl.

of the easiest yet deli-

grated

garlic. Continue to cook

cious recipes from South

¼ cup vegetable oil

and season with salt

African cooks Zola Nene

2 cups tomato sauce

and pepper.

(which was featured in

½ cup brown sugar

Gordan Ramsey's show

½ cup apple cider vin-

rots, curry powder, curry

Uncharted 2), Christine

egar

leaves and a touch of

Capendale and Jan Jan

1 cup curry powder

oil.

Braai. Bon appetite and

4 fresh curry leaves

happy Heritage Month!

Salt, to taste

sugar and vinegar and

4 whole red snappers,

Black pepper, to taste

water and then reduce

gutted, scaled and gills

1l water

the heat as needed to

removed

4 cans baked beans

allow vegetables to sof-

Chakalaka (Zola Nene) (Serves a large crowd.)

Add the tomatoes, car-

Next, add the brown

ten and caramelise.

Braaied whole red snapper with green monkey orange chutney (Zola Nene) (Serves 4) Ingredients

For braai spice:

Ingredientss

Method

3 medium onions, diced

In a medium pot, turn

The mixture should be

1 tsp cayenne pepper

3 medium green bell

on heat and add the oil

very wet at this point.

1 tbsp smoked paprika

peppers, diced

when pan is hot. When

4 medium tomatoes,

the oil is hot, add the

78

Add the tomato sauce.

Next add baked beans and remove from the

1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp ground cumin

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


ger to the pan and continue cooking until ginger and onions are fragrant. Add the brown sugar and honey to the pan; then red wine vinegar and let simmer until sugar has melted. Next add the green monkey oranges and cook on low for 2-3 more minutes, until combined. Serve alongside grilled fish. * Green monkey oranges can be substituted with any variety of 1 tsp ground black pep-

1 tbsp honey

char them on the grill

per

¼ cup red wine vinegar

and set aside. Com-

Salt, to taste

6 green monkey or-

bine the cilantro, onion,

1 bunch cilantro,

anges, fruit only, seeds

chillies, tomatoes, lime

chopped

removed*

juice, lime zest and salt

1 small red onion, diced

2 tbsp vegetable oil

into a salsa mixture.

2 small serrano chilli,

Kosher salt, to taste

oranges.

2 tomatoes, diced finely

Method

through, place it on

Mfino fritters topped with cream cheese and smoked chicken (Christine Capendale as featured on Disney Cookabout)

Juice and zest of 1 lime

Braaied red snapper:

a large wood cutting

(Serves 2)

Salt, to taste

Season fish inside and

board. Spoon over the

Ingredients

2 limes

out with the braai spice.

salsa mixture and serve

5ml sunflower oil

Place fish on the grill. To

with green monkey

125ml water

For green monkey orange chutney (also known as morapa/nsala):

prevent it from sticking,

orange chutney and

1clove garlic (crushed)

don’t move the fish until

grilled lime wedges.

40ml chopped onion

*Green monkey or-

100g chopped mfino

1 onion, finely diced

Carefully flip the fish and

Once the fish is nicely charred and cooked

diced

the skin has started to crisp and form a crust.

ange chutney: In a pan, sauté onions

(spinach) 30g finely chopped cab-

2-inch piece of ginger,

cook until meat is flaky

in oil until translucent

bage

peeled and grated

and opaque.

and season with salt.

15ml chopped coriander

Add the grated gin-

60g maize meal

1 tbsp brown sugar

Cut two limes in half,

Public Sector Manager • September 2020

79


FOOD AND WINE

into mini balls. Flatten

Method

slightly and cook the

Put all the ingredients

fritters in the butter until

for the marinade in a

golden brown on both

marinating bowl and mix

sides.

well. Toss the beef cubes

Top the fritters with

into the mix and stir until

small amounts of

all the pieces are coated

cream cheese, then

in marinade. Cover the

add the smoked chick-

bowl and marinate for at

en slices and caramel-

least 3 hours, but prefer-

ised onion. Garnish with

ably overnight. Whenever

parsley.

you feel like it, stir the meat around before put-

Lamb sosaties (Jan Braai)

ting it back in the fridge.

Ingredients

you’re lighting the fire for

For the marinade:

your braai, remove the

1/2 cup olive oil

marinated meat from

1/2 cup lemon juice

the fridge and wash your

25ml ground cumin

hands for the assembling process.

Around the time that

Salt and pepper for

riander and cabbage

25ml ground paprika

seasoning

and cook for about five

25ml ground coriander

10ml melted butter

minutes.

25ml dried oregano

lamb cubes by alter-

1 tsp salt

nating with pieces of

1/2 tsp black pepper

onion, peppers, whole

For the sosaties:

mushrooms and cherry

50g low fat onion and

Stir in the maize meal

mustard cream cheese

and 125ml water. Add

60g thinly sliced

salt and pepper for

smoked chicken

seasoning.

50ml cooked, caramel-

Stir to combine and

Skewer the beef or

1kg steak (rump, sirloin,

tomatoes, packing them

rib-eye or fillet) or 1kg

tightly together.

ised onion

until the maize meal

lamb meat, cut into

Brush the assembled

Fresh parsley for gar-

is firm and resembles

3cm by 3cm cubes

sosaties with any leftover

nishing

mashed potatoes. Place

2 onions (cut into large

marinade. Braai the

the lid on saucepan

chunks, with layers

sosaties for about eight

Method

and let it cook at a very

separated)

minutes over hot coals.

Heat the oil in pan on

low heat for about five

2 peppers (green, yel-

The sosaties can be

medium heat. Add the

minutes. Remove from

low or red – seeds and

quite fragile, so braaing

garlic, chopped onion

the saucepan and cool.

stalks removed, and cut

them in a hinged grid

and cook for a few minutes. Next, add the chopped spinach, co-

80

into square chunks)

that you close gently is

brush with melted but-

250g small button

the way to go.

ter. Use a teaspoon to

mushrooms (whole)

shape the mfino mixture

250g cherry tomatoes

Heat another pan and

Serve with sides of your choice.

Public Sector Manager • September 2020


Africology_Design_Women_Awards_Standerd_Bank.pdf Africology_Design_Women_Awards_Standerd_Bank.pdf 1 2019/07/25 08:49

1

2019/07/25

08:49

Africology_Design_Women_Awards_Standerd_Bank.pdf Africology_Design_Women_Awards_Standerd_Bank.pdf 1 2019/07/25 08:49

1

2019/07/25

08:49

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Compiled by: Nicholas Francis

Beautifully South African I

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t’s time to buy local and stay beautiful at the

3

same time with these lo-

cal products.

1.

Lulu & Marula energising body polish, R260, available at Superbalist.

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2. Hey Gorgeous antioxidant rich matcha butter natural sunscreen, R220, available at hey-gorgeous.

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africanextracts.com 5. Placecol vitamin C radiance therapy, R330, available at placecol.com 6. Sk.in Marvel hydro shot, R1 050, available at skiningredients.com 7. Justine tissue oil, 100ml, R129 available, at justine.co.za 8. Esse Skincare foundation, 30ml,

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moisturiser, R220, available at heygorgeous.co.za

82

8


CHANNEL AFRICA THE AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE

Channel Africa is South Africa’s international public broadcast radio station whose primary audience is the entire African continent. Our secondary audience is the rest of the world, where we harvest our news and information. As an International Public Broadcaster, our core values subscribe to the highest journalistic ethics which find expression in fairness, accuracy, and impartiality. Channel Africa is a platform through which Africa is engaged in debate with itself, and recognises South Africa as a role player in continental and international affairs.

Vision: “The African Perspective” Mission: “to promote the regeneration, revival, and rejuvenation of Africa, through the production and broadcast of dynamic, stimulating, and interesting programmes”. Contact Information: Tel: 011 714 2997 Fax: 011 714 2072 Email: info@channelafrica.co.za Web: www.channelafrica.co.za Twitter: channelafrica1 Instagram: channelafricaradio DSTV:802


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