PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER
SEPTEMBER 2016
Tourism for all THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS
Deputy Minister Tokozile Xasa puts the spotlight on tourism
Celebrating Heritage Remembering the past, building the future
Energised for success Jarrad Wright has high hopes for SA’s energy sector
Lifestyle
SEPTEMBER 2016
• Fashion with a flair for culture • Healthy teeth lead to healthy lives
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29 Vital stats Fast facts at your fingertips 32 Provincial focus MEC for Tourism Desbo Mohono wants to make the North West a destination of choice 36 In other news News you need to know while you are on the go
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Contents
SEPTEMBER 2016
Regulars 10 Conversations with leaders Deputy Minister of Tourism Tokozile Xasa on making SA the ultimate tourist destination
38 Upcoming events A look at local and international events for your diary and information 40 International relations Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom on opening up the African skies 73 Appointments Find out who is new on persal
32
18 Profiles in leadership Freedom Park is a place for reflection and to build on a better future, says CEO Jane Mufamadi 22 Women in the public sector Ithala Development Finance Corporation’s Sthabile Shezi reflects on crunching numbers and empowering the youth and women 26 Trailblazer Engineer Jarrad Wright plans to make SA’s energy supply accessible and affordable
Features 44 Action plan for SA’s future Government’s plan to move SA forward involves all sectors of society
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46 Rediscovering the nation’s soul National Heritage Council of South Africa CEO Advocate Sonwabile Mancotywa writes about the importance of heritage and nation-building 50 Innovation: The future of the public service Marine alien species researcher on the science of success 54 Remembering Reverend Stofile SA pays tribute to a rare leader and dedicated public servant
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Public Sector Manager • September 2016
TO ALL EMPLOYERS REGISTERED WITH THE COMPENSATION FUND 2012 EMPLOYER RETURN OF EARNINGS (ROE) DISCOUNTS The Compensation Fund has identified employers who qualified for discounts in 2013 for submitting their 2012 ROE online. The discounts have been credited against these qualifying employers’ CF accounts. For more information please contact the following officials: Thabo Makena: thabo.makena@labour.gov.za Nnyana Monama: nnyana.monama@labour.gov.za Dipuo Motlala: dipuo.matlala@labour.gov.za Letters to qualifying employers informing them about discounts are in the process of being sent out. Compensation Commissioner
The Compensation Fund services are free For more information visit your nearest Labour Centre or Provincial Office or call 0860 105 350. email: cf-callcentre@labour.gov.za
The Compensation Fund, working for you!
57 New look NDP aims to inspire The National Development Plan has a new brand identity and logo 60 Honouring a South African heroine Recalling the incredible life of Krotoa who played a defining role in the country’s history 64 Opinion SA remains resilient in tough economic times, says Minister Jeff Radebe 68 SA to lead from the front at the CITES CoP17 The country is preparing to host 182 countries for the international wildlife trade conference 71 Opinion SANRAL’s General Communications Manager Vusi Mona addresses perceptions about e-tolls
Lifestyle
Public Sector Manager THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS Publishers: Department of Communication and Information System Information Enquiry Service: +27 (0)12 473 0269 Switchboard: +27 (0)12 473 0000 Tshedimosetso House: 1035 Francis Baard Street (corner Festival Street), Hatfield, Pretoria Private Bag X745, Pretoria, South Africa, 0001 www.gcis.gov.za Head of Editorial and Production
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78 Food and wine Recipes for culinary success
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82 Grooming and style All about the prints this Heritage Month
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86 Car reviews Ford Everest ticks all the right boxes
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89 Book reviews Books that will help bring positive change in your work environment 90 Nice-to-haves It’s time to brighten up your life
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------------------------------------------Acting Director-General Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Chief Financial Officer ----------------------------------------------© Copyright: GCIS Printed by Paarl Media
Donald Liphoko Phumla Williams Nebo Legoabe Harold Maloka Zwelinjani Momeka
Message from the Minister
Ensuring universal access to tourism
S
outh Africa is known for its amazing tourism offer-
Importantly, it also includes the removal of cultural, physical
ings that leave many visitors to our shores wanting
and social barriers that prevent people from entering, using
more. The country is regarded as one of the most
or benefiting from tourism facilities.
diverse and enchanting places in the world. Our exotic combination of landscapes, people, history
Universal access
and culture offers a unique and inspiring experience. The
The concept of promoting universal access has itself become
country’s scenic wonders from Table Mountain in Cape
a critical component in the global tourism industry to allow
Town to God’s Window situated on the Drakensberg in
more people to participate and enjoy the sector. It features as
Mpumalanga escarpment are legendary.
part of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s Global
Visitors can go almost anywhere in the country and experience the ultimate combination of nature, wildlife,
Code of Ethics for Tourism and will also be advanced on World Tourism Day this year.
culture, adventure and heritage. Adventure seekers are
In providing universal access we must ensure that all South
spoilt for choice, while nature and wildlife enthusiasts
Africans, in particular the elderly, people with disabilities and
have an array of national parks to explore.
families with small children, can explore our country. In South
Government wants all South Africans, irrespective of race, gender or social standing to share in these amazing experiences and enjoy our bountiful tourism offerings.
Africa the provision for people with special needs such as access for disabled persons is stipulated in the Tourism Act. Tourism operators and venues can play their part by adapting
We also want more South Africans to be actively involved
facilities for use by mobility impaired guests such as people in
in the business of the sector. The tourism industry has the
wheelchairs, using crutches, with prams, with frailty or reduced
potential to bring more South Africans into the formal
energy levels. The provision of ramped access and disabled
economy. A transformed and empowered tourism sector
friendly bathroom facilities will assist in accessibility.
holds enormous benefits for the country.
Tourism for all
In providing universal access we will cultivate a local culture of tourism and help grow our tourism market further. A study conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry on the
In celebration of Tourism Month in September we are
Accessible Tourism Market identified universal access as a
promoting an open tourism sector to be enjoyed by more
niche.
South Africans under the theme “Tourism for All”. We will
It has the potential to generate income of more than R5
do so through advancing the concept of universal access.
billion and create 29 249 new employment opportunities.
We are reaching out to all South Africans through the
The Department of Tourism has identified universal access
design of tourism products, programmes and services
as an important initiative that will enhance South Africa’s
that can be used by everyone.
competitiveness, in line with the desire to be one of the top
6
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
20 tourism destinations by 2020. Tourism’s universal access can help create an inclusive
many families, with more people working in tourism than in mining.
society where all people can realise their full civil, economic,
In 2013, the tourism sector directly employed 655 509
social and cultural potential. We must all work together to
people or four percent of the total local workforce. Tourism
ensure that all South Africans irrespective of cultural, physical
contributed R103. 6 billion to our gross domestic product.
and social standing have access to our rich tourist offerings.
Domestic visitors contributed R124.7 billion of total tourism
This is something close to our heart as a nation with our
spend in 2013, while international visitors contributed R94.2
world acclaimed Constitution recognising everyone as equal
billion.
citizens, with equal rights and responsibilities. It centres us on
Understanding the importance of the tourism sector in the
human dignity, the achievement of equality, the promotion of
economy, government has made it one of the key aspects of
human rights and freedoms, non-racialism and non-sexism.
the country’s Nine-Point Plan, which aims to ignite economic
Exploring South Africa
growth and create jobs. The plan targets coastal tourism where sites are being
During September, government encourages all citizens
identified and prioritised for development. Our coastal
to explore every corner of our beautiful country. This will
tourism offerings will help create new jobs and address
not only build national pride, but will also foster a better
poverty in these areas.
understanding of the country’s diversity and its people.
Although tourism has grown with leaps and bounds in the
The Department of Tourism and South African Tourism are
past 22 years, the industry is still to reach its full potential.
working with tourism players to make travel and tourism
Let us work together to grow the sector by making it more
attainable for ordinary South Africans.
accessible to all South Africans.
A new domestic tourism marketing campaign called “Nothing’s More Fun than a Sho’t Left” encourages South Africans to take short breaks through a number of affordable holiday deals to give every South African the opportunity to visit places of significance. The campaign is making strong inroads into domestic tourism market with domestic trips increasing by 11 percent in 2014 to 28 million trips compared to 25.2 million trips taken in 2013. SAT data also highlighted that total revenue generated from domestic trips was R26.8 billion in 2014, an increase from R24.3 billion in 2013. South African National Parks (SANParks) is also playing their part to ensure that their world renowned parks are accessible to all locals. During SANParks Week, from 9 to 13 September, South Africans are invited to visit parks for free to discover for themselves why millions of international tourists visit them every year. According to SANParks, the main objective of the week is to cultivate a culture of pride among all South Africans in the
For more information on destinations you can explore across the country, go to the provincial tourism authority websites:
· Cape Town and Western Cape Tourism, Trade & Investment – www.wesgro.co.za · Free State Tourism Authority – www.freestatetourism.org · Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency – www.visiteasterncape.co.za · Gauteng Tourism Authority www.gauteng.net · Limpopo Tourism Agency www.golimpopo.com · Tourism KwaZulu-Natal www.zulu.org.za · Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency www.mtpa.co.za
country’s natural, cultural and historical heritage.
· North West Parks and Tourism Board -
Boosting the economy
· Northern Cape Tourism Authority -
In advancing our local tourism sector we are also supporting
www.tourismnorthwest.co.za experiencenortherncape.com
the local economy. The industry has become the lifeline for
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
7
MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL
Celebrating SA’s rich heritage have inherited from past generations such as language and cultural knowledge. Celebrating our heritage means embracing our cultures, oral and traditional expressions, languages, performing arts, social practices and rituals, food and other aspects that make us unique. South Africans should use the holiday to learn more about their history, heroes and heroines. We cannot build a united
Acting Director-General Donald Liphoko.
nation without understanding our past, which still has a enduring bearing on our future.
S
Heritage Day also provides families with an opportunity outh Africa’s diversity, rich heritage and melting pot of
to take collective pride in our history; visit heritage sites,
cultures make it a nation like no other.
national parks and memorials; experience the food, music
Every year, we take time to celebrate our differences,
learn more about each other’s cultures and honour our heritage in the month of September.
Some may ask if it is still necessary to celebrate our heritage 22 years after joining the global village. The answer
Shortly after South Africa’s first democratic government was
is a resounding yes as we have only just begun to scratch
elected, it adopted a Constitution, which recognises South
the surface in reclaiming our history after more than 350
Africa’s cultural diversity and prescribes that all people who
years of colonialism and apartheid. We should use this
live in the country must be treated equally.
year’s commemoration to build on our foundation to foster
Government also created a holiday on 24 September to
reconciliation, social cohesion and nation building.
commemorate, celebrate and promote the varied cultural
The Department of Arts and Culture has arranged community
heritage of our nation. Over the years, the entire month of
conversations and sectoral engagements across the country
September has been used to celebrate our heritage and has
to address social cohesion and nation building.
popularly become known Heritage Month.
It is also partnering with the Department of Basic Education
Addressing the first Heritage Day event in 1996, former
to run a number of arts initiatives aimed at boosting social
President Nelson Mandela stressed the importance of the day.
cohesion among learners, including a choral eisteddfod,
“When our first democratically-elected government decided
spelling bee for learners in Grades 4 to 6 and a drama festival
to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so
for inner-city schools in Johannesburg, which have a high
because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage
concentration of foreign nationals.
has a profound power to help build our new nation,” he said.
These are just some of the initiatives the department has
This year marks 20 years since that first Heritage Day in 1996
embarked on to bring South Africans closer together. Details
and various events will be staged throughout the country
of other projects can be found on the department’s website,
to commemorate it. The main event on 24 September will
www.dac.gov.za
feature a presidential address to the nation.
8
and literature; and admire our unique cultural dress.
We have to engage in continuous and constructive
South Africans are encouraged to use this day to celebrate
dialogue about promoting and managing our diversity and
who they are, and to share their cultural experiences with
guard against considering the heritage of some cultures and
others. Our heritage is both tangible and intangible. Tangible
traditions as being more important than others. This goes
heritage refers to buildings, historic places, artefacts and
against our Constitution and the spirit of Ubuntu which
monuments, while the intangibles are attributes that we
ensures that we move South Africa forward.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Women in tourism Tourism Deputy Minister Tokozile Xasa will be hosting the Women in Tourism Conference in Pretoria from 5 to 6 October 2016.
Recognition
The Women in Tourism agenda focusses on ‘Commanding
Respect,
Representation in economic activities and leadership, and producing results
ascertaining
of women contribution in the sector, encouraging
which will enhance the supply and demand for domestic tourism’. All Women in Tourism are invited to attend. For more information contact: ntmthembu@tourism.gov.za
#WomenInTourism
CONVERSATIONS WITH THE LEADERS
Writer: Noluthando Mkhize Photographer: Siyabulela Duda
Making SA the ultimate
tourist destination 10
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
S
he is the woman in charge of ensuring that people
South African Tourism has also partnered with the South
from across the world get a taste of South Africa’s rich
African Taxi Foundation to address the lack of travel culture
culture along with its beautiful scenery.
among South Africans.
And for Deputy Minister of Tourism Tokozile Xasa it’s a job
“As a result of this partnership 49 percent of the total trips
that is “fun”, while also contributing to the country’s economy
in 2015 were undertaken to destinations in mini-bus taxis,”
by growing the tourism sector.
says the Deputy Minister.
“Being Deputy Minister gives me an opportunity to market
The taxis were branded with artwork aligned with the tour-
and promote my country internationally so that more tourists
ism sector in partnership with Business and Arts South Africa.
visit the country, and domestically for South Africans to travel
The same taxis will be used for activations for World Tour-
and appreciate their own country. I also get to be part of the
ism Day on 27 September and to transport officials from the
team that drives transformation through developing mecha-
department to the World Tourism Day celebrations that will
nisms and programmes meant to address this,” she says.
be in Parys, Free State.
Tourism Month in the spotlight
Building a holiday culture
Deputy Minister Xasa says the main aim of Tourism Month,
South African Tourism has also partnered with Gogos on Tour,
which is in September, is to raise awareness about travel and
a non-governmental organisation that offers a free travel
tourism, the importance of tourism, its benefits to the country
club for the elderly.
and the need for all stakeholders to play a role in enhancing tourism.
As part of the partnership, 1 000 gogos from across the country will go on a three-day tour to various destinations.
“It also synergises with the department’s programme to
“The purpose of this partnership is to align to the bigger
promote domestic tourism as it promotes the idea that South
strategy of building a holiday culture. We want to use this
Africans must travel and enjoy the leisure, sporting, cultural
activation as an opportunity to capture what “Tourism for All”
and adventure offerings in the country.”
means to the elderly.
She explains that the theme for Tourism Month is “Tourism
“This gives us an opportunity to highlight the affordability
for All”, which promotes universal accessibility, and highlights
and accessibility of domestic travel. It will target the major-
that the South African tourism industry aims to cater for all
ity of adult South Africans who have not taken a holiday trip
citizens by ensuring deals and packages that South African
within the country and help build the culture of travel.”
Tourism has put together make domestic travel accessible and affordable.
Tourism: A major player in the economy
Some of the initiatives that will promote Tourism Month
Deputy Minister Xasa says the review of the National Tourism
include Mahala National Parks Weeks, the South African Taxi
Sector Strategy, which is almost complete, gives a good idea
Foundation partnership and Gogos on Tour.
of the future strategic considerations of the tourism sector.
Mahala National Parks will see South Africans getting free
“Tourism is deemed to be a major player in its contribution
entry to all national parks and reserves from 12 to 16 Sep-
to the economy and is recognised as a job creation sector as
tember.
it is, by large, labour intensive.”
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
11
ADVERTORIAL
WOMEN IN THE ECONOMY AND SOCIAL CHANGE
As we reflect on Women’s Month
in women, both in the workplace and
in South Africa, it is important to
through education, would lead not only
acknowledge women’s contribution to
to increased revenues and job creation,
society, especially to the economy and
but also to healthier, better educated and
unpaid care work – raising children,
more prosperous families, communities
families and communities for instance.
and ultimately whole societies. South Africa’s Department of Women echoes
In spite of their massive contribution,
this sentiment in its 2015 Report on
women still face considerable challenges
Women in South Africa, stating that the
and are considered a vulnerable group
education of women is key in promoting
due to gender discrimination in the
economic growth and reducing poverty.
workplace, violence and lack of access to education – to name but a few.
Through the National Treasury, the Jobs Fund helps tackle the country’s
In spite of these challenges, women’s
unemployment challenge by leveraging
contribution to productive and healthy
public-private partnerships to create
societies is increasingly being
jobs, with a particular focus on women
recognised worldwide. Research
and youth.
conducted by several organisations,
Ms Najwah Allie-Edries
including Goldman Sachs, the
“At 26.7%, South Africa has one of
International Labour Organisation and
the highest unemployment rates
the World Bank, suggests that investing
in the world,” the Head of the Jobs
Fund, Najwah Allie-Edries, says. “Amongst women, this rate increases to 29.3% unemployment and this is unacceptable,” she adds. The Jobs Fund’s objective is to cofinance projects implemented by public, private and non-governmental organisations that will significantly contribute to job creation. It aims to support projects that use innovative job-creation models to have a catalytic effect in society, unlocking growth and development far beyond the Jobs Fund’s intervention. An amount of R9 billion was set aside to achieve these objectives. Projects are also required to match the funding amount that the Jobs Fund
Mercedes-Benz South Africa’ s Training Programme to support third production
provides them (generally at a 1:1 ratio).
proportion of job creation will come from
“Our project partners invest alongside us
Fund, supporting the organisations that
and therefore there is a true commitment to do well together and create as many sustainable jobs as possible,” says Allie-
SMMEs. That is why, for us as the Jobs help these small businesses grow is fundamental,” Allie-Edries explains.
Edries.
The Jobs Fund focuses on women and
Projects supported by the Jobs Fund
making up the majority of the project
mainly focus on support for workseekers and enterprise development. Work-seeker projects focus on matching work-seekers to work opportunities and then addressing their work-readiness gaps through training and support. Work-readiness solutions are developed to address the employer’s needs and priorities, thereby ensuring the uptake of the trained beneficiaries. Enterprise development projects focus on providing business support to start-up or growthorientated businesses through training and mentorship, funding and assistance with access to markets. Growing businesses contribute to South Africa’s
youth in particular, with these groups beneficiaries. To date, the Jobs Fund has partnered with 104 projects, 97 of the implementing projects have trained 157 267 people and created 121 481 permanent jobs. Two-thirds of the trained individuals are women and 58% of the permanent jobs created have been filled by women. “The message is clear from the research,” Allie-Edries highlights, “a rand in the hand of a woman goes further than a rand in the hand of a man.” Including more women in the labour market and in business should not
GDP and catalyse job creation.
merely be about filling a certain quota.
“The National Development Plan has
The Jobs Fund is actively involved in
recognised the importance of small business development and that a large
Contact details:
Address: 2nd Floor 240 Madiba Street, Pretoria Number: +27 12 406 9166 Website: http://www.jobsfund.org.za/
Ms Najwah Allie-Edries and Hon. Deputy Minister of Finance Mcebisi Jonas
It is an economic and social imperative. capacitating young women with the skills they need to enter the labour force or
Cape Craft Design Institute - House of Kallie
grow their businesses. This results in confident women, job creation, poverty reduction, healthier families, more stable communities and a greatly increased GDP per capita. When women do better, economies do better; it’s that simple.
CONVERSATIONS WITH THE LEADERS
She adds the department is committed to boosting domestic tourism over the next decade as it has the potential to increase the tourism economy. This will avoid excessive dependency on international arrivals.
tant role in the increase of tourist arrivals. “The amendments to the visa regulations may have prompted more tourists to reconsider visiting the coun-
“This is, however, a long-term objective as many factors affect
try. There is no doubt that the rand to dollar exchange
the progressive development of domestic tourism, including
rate continues to make the offerings in South Africa very
the affordability and cost of touring the country, disposable
attractive due to the value for money a tourist may get
income to spend on holidays, unemployment and many other
by visiting South Africa.”
factors.” By increasing tourism growth over the next decade the
South Africa must be viewed as an integral part of tourism, relating to the Southern African region, she adds.
country can expect to see local economies benefit through
“International tourists visiting other Southern African
the tourist spend in their areas, which should support jobs in
Development Community countries also tend to con-
local tourism establishments, profit margins and sustainability,
sider visiting South Africa before leaving the region; this
points out the Deputy Minister.
may also be viewed vice-versa.”
Another concern is the geographic spread of tourism with major, well-known attractions dominating the tourism sector. “There is great potential in the development of routes which cut across provinces, and regions and will include rural and small towns.”
Tourist arrivals on the rise
Opportunities for the youth The department has a number of initiatives to encourage the youth to get involved in the tourism sector. Deputy Minister Xasa says the Tourism Buddies Programme is an experiential hospitality training programme that targets unemployed youth to enable them to acquire
In the first quarter of 2016, the Department of Tourism re-
skills and gain work experience to enhance employability
corded a strong rebound in tourist arrivals, with more than a
in the hospitality and tourism sector.
million tourists arriving in the country. This was 15.4 percent more than January 2015. Month-to-month growth in arrivals began improving prospects for the sector in October last year.
14
Deputy Minister Xasa says many factors play an impor-
In the 2015/16 financial year, the department enrolled 2 950 learners for the National Certificate Food and Beverages NQF Level 4; and National Certificate Accommodation Services NQF Level 2.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
The department also runs the sommelier programme which sees young people trained in wine service. “In the 2015/2016 financial year, 270 learners were enrolled in the Wine Service Training Programme. Of these 243 learners graduated and 187 were women.” Deputy Minister Xasa says the Wine Service Training Programme is implemented under the department’s social responsibility initiative. “The programme responds to the main objectives of the National Skills Development Strategy III, which encourages and actively supports the integration of workplace training, with theoretical training and places great emphasis on relevance, quality and sustainability of skills training programmes to ensure that they impact positively on poverty reduction and inequality.” She adds that South Africa does not have many qualified sommeliers and it is considered a very scarce skill. “This training involves the pairing of food and wine. The aim and objective is to skill unemployed youth to make sure they are employable within the hospitality sector.”
Competing with the best The department also runs the National Youth Chefs Training
This and that
What is your favourite food?
A good lamb curry is definitely among the top. What do you do for fun?
I am one of the fortunate people that can say my work is fun. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family. If you had to choose, what would be your favourite destination in South Africa and why?
My heart belongs to the rolling hills of the Eastern Cape – my home province. If you were not in government what would you be doing?
I was a teacher when I was called to the service of the country. Once a teacher, always a teacher, and my country is my classroom.
Programme, which ensures world-class service standards, promote South African indigenous cuisine and, at the same time, produces chefs who are able to compete with the best in the world. “In the 2015/16 financial year, the department enrolled 577 learners for the Professional Cookery qualification, some were specialising in pastry. There will be 470 learners graduating and 405 of them are women.” Deputy Minister Xasa says the department has also introduced the Food Safety Programme. This is a scientific discipline aimed at handling, preparing, and storing food in ways that prevent food borne illnesses. “This includes a number of routines that should be followed to avoid potentially severe health hazards. In the 2014/15 financial year, the department piloted the Food Safety Programme in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, where 100 Technical Vocational Education and Training hospitality and tourism unemployed graduates were trained and hosted as Food Safety Assurers (FSAs) and 88 of those were women.” She said the programme’s results were positive and lead
Deputy Minister Xasa holds a BA degree from the Walter Sisulu University, majoring in Public Administration and Psychology; as well as an Honours and Masters in Public Administration from the University of Fort Hare. She started her career as a teacher and taught at several high schools for nine years, before becoming the first female mayor of a district municipality, the Kei District Council, during the transitional period of local government in the Eastern Cape. She is a former MEC of Social Development and MEC for Housing and Local Government and Traditional Affairs in the Eastern Cape.
to most of the FSAs being employed by the private sector.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
15
energy Energy
PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP
Writer: Albert Pule
Freedom Park:
A place to reflect and rebuild
S
ituated at the top of Salvokop, in Pretoria, Freedom Park
The history of the land is also archived at the museum. It
is a heritage destination that challenges visitors to reflect
includes the first South Africans, the arrival of the colonial-
on South Africa’s past, improve on the present and build
ists and the wars that unshackled the nation.
a better future.
The museum’s exhibits present extensive South Afri-
It also provides the perfect setting for South Africans to pon-
can and African indigenous knowledge and indigenous
der their role in fostering social cohesion and draw strength
knowledge systems. These exhibits also fall under the
from their diversity, says Freedom Park CEO Jane Mufamadi.
Pan African Archives, which preserves such teachings for
“Freedom Park is a monument and memorial established to honour those who sacrificed for freedom and humanity. “It is also futuristic in its nature and serves as a reminder that as we build a united future, we must dare not repeat the horrible mistakes and divisive decisions of the past.” Freedom Park has various elements which reflect on culture, heritage, history, indigenous knowledge and spirituality.
future generations. The exhibits comprise artefacts and information on how Africans lived, going back some 4 000 years, and showcases African innovations and achievements. The Wall of Names is a tribute to the many lives lost in the numerous conflicts that have taken place on South African soil.
At the //hapo Museum, visitors are taken on a cultural and
All those who contributed to the freedom of the country
historical odyssey from the Earth’s infancy, through the early
are acknowledged at Freedom Park’s Garden of Remem-
days of humanity and to present day.
brance.
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Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Preserving heritage
Taking Freedom Park to the people
Mufamadi believes that it is important for every nation to
In an effort to attract more people to Freedom Park,
preserve its heritage because it plays a significant role in
Mufamadi and her team embarked on an extensive
building the nation.
outreach programme to market it.
“A nation without heritage is like an individual without a
She says they have taken the programme to the Free
soul. Our heritage is our blueprint and acts as a foundation
State, Western Cape and Mpumalanga. “The support we
because it channels you in terms of where you come from
got from these provinces has been immense and we
and where you should go.
are planning to talk to other provincial governments, as
“If you look at countries that are doing well, they base their approach on their heritage and their development is
well as the provincial departments of arts and culture, to support us in marketing Freedom Park.”
based on their own culture and uniqueness. If you follow
Mufamadi adds that the impact of the outreach is al-
everything and everybody, you will always be followers. It
ready evident as interest in Freedom Park has increased
is through heritage that you can become unique.”
and she is positive that the number of people visiting
She adds that Freedom Park is in the process of preserving the heritage of the country by digitising the Pan African Archives. “One of the most important programmes we are busy with in preserving our heritage is the digitisation of the Pan African Archives. This is a powerful educational tool that will be linked to the Knowledge Centre.
the park will increase. “South Africans are warming up to Freedom Park as a tourist destination, contrary to the earlier years when it was thought to be a destination for high profile visits only. “Much as it is a restrictive space due the locational terrain, we believe there is nothing stopping us from
“This will enable our visitors to learn about African libera-
reaching 100 000 visitors in the three to five years’ time.
tion history in the exhibition area, find more interactive
The highest figure we recorded in a year was 54 000
material on touchscreens and access academic material
annually. This year we are on course to reach 60 000
on the subject that will be shared electronically.”
visitors.”
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
19
PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP
Bringing communities together
also formed a reconciliation forum and we are helping them
One of the roles of Freedom Park is to promote social cohesion
get it off the ground.”
and nation-building. Mufamadi says one of the highlights of
She adds that her team is also in talks with the Limpopo
her time at Freedom Park was it bringing two communities
provincial government to pursue similar interventions in that
together.
province.
For a long time, the community of Calvinia in Northern Cape was divided along racial lines. There were schools exclusively
Leading effectively
attended by Coloureds and the other schools for Afrikaners.
Mufamadi was appointed CEO in January 2016, after previ-
“The town was even divided by a road; on the one side one
ously acting in the position.
section for Afrikaners and the other section for Coloureds. They
She says her role as CEO has been both challenging and
did not interact with each other and the children never played
exciting. Mufamadi believes her previous role as head of Free-
with each other.”
dom Park’s Heritage and Knowledge Department prepared
Mufamadi and her team called the leaders of both communities for a meeting in a bid to break down the barriers.
her for her current role. “I’m a consultative and participative leader because I believe
“We asked what we could do to bring the two communities
that a leader is as good as the people he or she leads. You
together. It was not easy in the beginning because we were
can be the best leader but if you can’t take the people with,
met with a lot of resistance, but eventually both sides came
you are doomed to fail because they are the ones who are
to the table.”
supposed to do the work and your role is just to guide them.”
As a result of Freedom Park’s intervention, the two communi-
Mafumadi has a BA, BA Honours and Masters in Psychology
ties have since organised an annual event honouring individu-
from the University of Venda and is currently a PhD candidate
als that play a positive role within the community.
at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
She adds that Freedom Park also helped the two communities get funding to establish a garden of remembrance. “This garden of remembrance will be used to honour people from both communities who are playing a positive role. They’ve
She has worked as a lecturer at the Department of Psychology at the University of Venda and later as an acting director and senior lecturer at the Centre of Indigenous Knowledge System at the University of Venda.
Freedom Park CEO Jane Mufamadi.
20
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
EXPLORING NEW DEFENCE PATHWAYS Driving the “On Time in Time – Towards a Sustainable Future” strategy,
Armscor – the acquisition agency of the Department of Defence – is gearing itself towards building new sustainable pathways and unlocking South Africa’s defence and defence-related growth potential. Solidifying commitments made at the recently held Armscor Supplier Open Day, local SMMEs providing defence and defence-related products and services will this year be supported and encouraged to participate and showcase their capabilities at the upcoming Africa Aerospace and Defence Show (AAD) taking place from 14 to 18 September 2016, at the Waterkloof Air Force Base. As a proud lead partner of the AAD2016, Armscor will further allocate space to local SMMEs; this in pursuit of reinforcing and creating a defence environment that drives inclusive economic participation. With more local and international participation, the AAD2016 is expected to be bigger than previous years. The introduction of the African Pavilion, the first of its kind since the advent of the AAD show, will be a significant addition. This pavilion will accommodate African companies who are in aerospace, defence and defence-related industries, providing a platform for them to display their capabilities to global players, while promoting sustainable innovative solutions for peace and security in the continent. Join us at the AAD2016 and experience the biggest aerospace and defence expo on the African continent.
GATEWAY TO DEFENCE SOLUTIONS
FRICA
AEROSPACE & DEFENCE 2016
14-18 September at Waterkloof Air Force Base, Pretoria, www.aadexpo.co.za www.armscor.co.za
WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Writer: Noluthando Mkhize
Sthabile Shezi, who is Divisional Manager for Finance at Ithala Development Finance Corporation, is all about development.
22
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Nurturing a passion
for development W ith a passion for empowering youth and
The programme attracts youth with innovative and sustain-
women Sthabile Shezi could not have asked
able business concepts and provides incubation and start-up
for a better role than Divisional Manager for
support in their journey to become entrepreneurs.
Finance at Ithala Development Finance Corporation (IDFC).
Shezi says the objective is to enable aspiring entrepreneurs to
Crunching numbers and ensuring that financial reports,
turn their creative concepts into fully operational businesses.
budgeting and implementation of the organisations
The IDFC does this by providing start-up capital and the neces-
strategy, is only but a fraction of Shezi’s passion and
sary business support to help them launch, manage and run
responsibilities.
their businesses successfully.
“I am passionate about development and to work for an or-
She explains that through the Siyasebenza Business Devel-
ganisation whose primary mandate is development makes
opment Programme, the IDFC engages in a series of province
me proud to be part of it,” she says. IDFC is KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial development agency. Its core mandate is to facilitate economic development in the province. Shezi, 37, from Amanzimtoti, south of Durban, was lured into the world of finance during her high school days at Sacred Heart
wide interactive information and business
“The aim is to offer inspirational talks, advice, direction and opportunities for women who are in business or want to get into business.”
Secondary School where she excelled in mathematics and accounting. This made a career as a chartered accountant a natural choice. She says in her early years, she wanted to be a social worker because she believed she needed to contribute to society in one way or the other. At the IDFC she still gets to do this.
Economic development in KZN Shezi says that some of the programmes that IDFC is cur-
development workshops. “These workshops are specifically targeted at emerging and aspiring entrepreneurs. They are designed to educate and inspire the SMMEs with ways of building and growing sustainable businesses.” Imbokodo Iyazenzela is all about empowering woman, Shezi says.
It is a development programme focusing mainly on women in the rural areas and townships across the province. “The aim is to offer inspirational talks, advice, direction and opportunities for women who are in business or want to get into business.”
The spirit of entrepreneurship Shezi adds that entrepreneurship is still developing in South Africa.
rently implementing to promote economic development
“The environment is not yet fully supportive of entrepreneurs.
in the province are the Inkunz’isematholeni Youth in Busi-
Access to finance and over regulation often results in high failure
ness Competition, Siyasebenza Business Development
rates of budding businesses. South Africa still lags behind when
Programme and Imbokodo Iyazenzela: Women in SMMEs
compared to other African countries.”
Workshops and Awards.
“Our education system needs to incorporate entrepreneurship
The Inkunz’isematholeni Youth in Business Competition
into the syllabus. Children need to learn from a young age how
started in 2014 and is aimed at promoting entrepreneur-
to start up and run businesses rather than being taught to only
ship and providing skills development among the youth.
be employees.”
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
23
WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR
To help achieve this, the IDFC has partnered with other organisations in a school enterprise challenge. This is a student-led, business start-up competition for schools across the province that sees teachers and students set up school busi-
cause they know more, I know I have done well. I am all for sharing knowledge, growth and development.” Shezi adds that her job also comes with challenges such as managing diverse individuals of different races, backgrounds and ages, which can be difficult.
nesses.
“You have to use different skills to engage
“This helps high school learners
and influence a diverse group of people. I
to develop entrepreneurial skills
am learning everyday how to be a good
in a practical, entertaining and
manager and most importantly, a great
innovative manner.
leader.”
“In this way schools are able
Her plans for the future include con-
to generate an income which
tinuing to help empower women and
they can invest towards the
young people across the province with information.
development of the school,” she explains. Last year this programme attracted 19 business ideas and eight business plans.
Women in finance Shezi believes that the number of women chartered accountants is still too low. “Women are estimated to make up about 35 percent of the total number of accountants in the world. African women are a fraction of that. A lot still needs to be done to ensure the increase in the number of black women chartered accountants.” She is happy to be working for an organisation that is seri-
This and that Favourite food?
Seafood and any dish made by my mom.
What do you do for fun?
Play board games with my daughter and watch movies.
How do you relax? I read, read and read.
If you were not in the finance sector what would you be doing? Running a non-government organisation that focuses on women and youth development.
ous about backing the advancement of women in the corporate world. “Of IDFC’s total staff complement of 833 about, 49.5 percent
Shezi holds a B.Comm and B.Comm Honours with the
are women. The percentage of women in executive and sen-
University of KwaZulu-Natal. She qualified as a chartered
ior management is 40 percent, while at middle management
accountant in 2005. She also has a Master’s in Business
is at 28 percent.”
Administration through Regenesys Business School.
The board of directors comprises 57 percent women, while 61 percent of the IDFC’s banking services branches – 22 of 36 branches – are headed by women. “In the 2015/16 financial year, 66 percent of the agency’s training spend was allocated to women.” She says as a woman in leadership, she loves her job and the best part is coaching the members of her team.
She previously worked at Anglo American in Gauteng as a Principal Finance Manager for six years. She then moved to KwaZulu-Natal and took up a position of Financial Reporting Manager at Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. She later worked at the University of KwaZulu-Natal as a Director for Corporate Financial Services.
“When I see improvement in someone’s performance be-
24
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
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International
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naturally hospitable • globally accessible
Pretoria/Tshwane | www.csiricc.co.za | +27 (012) 841 3884
Writer: Noluthando Mkhize
TRAILBLAZER
Getting the energy sector on the Wright track
A
t the top of Jarrad Wright’s to-do-list is to
systems has been a direct result of this. Most people don’t
ensure that all South Africans have access
really know this but the power system (commonly referred
to an affordable energy supply.
to as an electric power grid) is really just one big intercon-
Although he is just 30 years old Wright − who is a
nected machine with various components.
principal engineer with the Council for Scientific and
“The large scale electrification of countries, enabled by
Industrial Research’s (CSIR) Energy Centre − is well
the development of power grids, has been deemed by the
positioned to do so.
National Academy of Engineering in the US as one of the
Along with the team from the CSIR Energy Centre, he is responsible for formulating energy sector research, which can then inform key energy policy decisions. “I plan to help make the CSIR Energy Centre a power-
greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century.“
Planning for the future Apart from providing leadership
house of knowledge generation and focused research
at the CSIR’s Energy Centre,
that will help make South Africa’s energy sector avail-
Wright was also appointed
able to everyone. It should be at an affordable level
to the National Plan-
that is sustainable in the long-term.”
ning Commission
Through their research, the team also want to ensure
(NPC) in 2015.
that the country transitions to a low carbon economy.
President Jacob
He explains that he is responsible for performing grid
Zuma appointed the
and energy planning by using innovative modelling
first NPC for the pe-
approaches and analysing generation, transmission
riod 2010-2015 and it
and distribution networks for the country’s energy
took on the primary
supply.
responsibility of de-
At the same time, he provides research leadership
veloping the National
on strategic research areas into the future to get to
Development Plan
the low carbon economy envisaged.
(NDP), which was
“This can include detailed technical studies, development or assistance with industry standards or codes,
adopted by Cabinet in September 2012.
as well as regulatory and policy advice for a high share
“The second NPC for
of renewables supporting South Africa’s energy goals,”
the period 2015-2020
he adds.
has a specific focus on im-
The appeal of the energy sector Wright says he has always been interested in the way
plementation of the NDP. This is our primary objective and mandate,” says Wright.
things work together to perform a function and this stems from his engineering background. “Getting into power systems and then energy
26
Jarrad Wright and his team are working hard to improve the country’s energy sector. Public Sector Manager • September 2016
The NPC has been tasked to, among others, promote and advance the implementation of the NDP across different sectors of society. “Amongst many things that we are tasked to do is research into long-term trends, analyse implementa-
will endeavour in everything that we do to become a powerhouse of energy research into the future.” He has also encouraged young people who want to enter the energy sector to ensure that they pursue subjects such as mathematics and science in high school.
tion of short- to medium-term plans with a view to
“Get the best education available to you to enable your-
recommend improvements to government as well as
self to be a critical and free thinker. Attend any energy sec-
produce reports to inform policy and planning.”
tor event you can, whether it is an exhibition, conference,
Addressing SA’s energy challenges Wright says South Africa’s energy sector is at a crucial
open days, science weeks or seminars. Use the power of social media to interact with professionals in the energy industry and inform yourself on as much as possible.”
point and that key decisions to be made in the near
“If I can leverage the knowledge and experience I have
future will define the country’s long-term economic
gained through the years in a way that can make a real
path.
difference to the lives of South Africans, then I will remain
Wright say while there is no one recipe to fix the energy challenges that South Africa faces, a number
motivated and driven to make sure that we can achieve the goals of the South African energy industry.”
of factors could help ease these challenges. These include creating consistent policy and a regulatory environment that will define the end-state of
This and that
the electricity sector, enabling universal access and
Favourite food?
the prioritising enabling technologies for high levels
Pizza, of course. Who doesn’t love pizza?
of renewable energy integration. He adds that a long-term commitment to and the
What do you do for fun?
I row and I play the odd video game.
completion of large scale power generation projects
How do you relax?
being constructed by Eskom, as well as sustained long-
There is no time to relax but if I do, I spend time with
term improvement in the existing coal fleet perfor-
family.
mance would also help.
Moving the industry forward Wright says he loves his job and is excited that he still
Favourite holiday destination I would say anywhere along South Africa’s coastline or near a dam is a happy place for me. I also recently travelled to Spain and definitely want to go back.
has so much to do to move the South African energy industry forward and solve the existing challenges. In this regards, Wright says he is motivated to make a difference.
Wright is currently pursuing a PhD at Wits University. He is a qualified electrical engineer with a Masters in
He adds that he is proud to work at a world-renowned
Electrical Engineering and registered as a professional
and well-respected multi-disciplinary research insti-
engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa.
tute such as the CSIR with extremely capable people
He has worked as a Regional Manager for Energy
in various disciplines. “Specifically, in the CSIR Energy Centre, we are building a team that wants to change the world and make the difference that South Africa needs. We want to
Exemplar Africa, as a result gained extensive power sector experience in 11 African countries. Wright joined the CSIR in 2015 after the establishment of its Energy Centre.
enable the South African low-carbon economy and
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
27
The leader in South African business-to-business communications www.topco.co.za
VITAL STATS
Compiled by: Dorris Simpson
Fast facts at your fingertips a sewerage system. This represents an increase of about
Community Survey 2016 results [Part two]
S
tatistics South Africa recently released the Community
3.6 percent from 2011, when 57 percent of households had access to this kind of toilets. •
The proportion of households using pit toilets with ventilation has increased, from 8.8 percent in 2011 to 12.2
Survey 2016 results which indicated that between 2011
percent in 2016.
and 2016 South Africans benefited from a general in-
crease in access to basic services, among other things. The Community Survey is a large-scale household sample survey
conducted to bridge the information gap between two censuses. It is one of the few available data sources that provide statistics at municipal level and it is aimed at enhancing planning, monitoring and evaluation at this level of government. The survey provides data on, among others, population, health, migration, education and access to basic services. The 2016 survey was conducted between March and April 2016, and collected data from 1.3 million households across all South African communities.
•
Households with no access to a toilet facility declined from 5.2 percent in 2011 to 2.4 percent in 2016.
•
Almost half of households (49.5 percent) have access to a toilet facility within their yard, with 45.6 percent using a
Education •
million in 1996 to 2.3 million in 2016. •
toilet located within their dwelling and 4.9 percent using
The number of people with no schooling declined from 3.7 The number of people who completed a bachelor’s degree
a toilet facility located outside their yard. •
A majority of households listed the lack of safe and reliable water supply (2.7 million), followed by the lack of or
increased from 410 686 in 1996 to 1.2 million in 2016. •
inadequate employment opportunities (two million) and
The number of people who completed secondary school
the cost of electricity (1.7 million) as biggest challenges
education increased from 3.5 million in 1996 to 11.9 million
they faced within their municipality.
in 2016. •
•
Within the 55-64 year age group, the number of bachelor’s degree holders increased from 33 549 in 1996 to 171 424 in
Poverty and hunger
2016.
•
in South Africa indicated that they had skipped a meal
The number of people who attained a bachelor’s degree in the
in the 12 months before the survey.
45-54 age group increased from 69 797 in 1996 to 282 314 in 2016. •
•
•
holds that skipped a meal was Eastern Cape (17.6
doubled from 157 154 in 1996 to 343 116 in 2016.
percent), followed by Northern Cape (17.5 percent), North West (17.4 percent), Free State (15.7 percent), KwaZulu-Natal (14.8 percent), Mpumalanga (14.8
Access to electricity for lighting increased by 32.2 percent,
percent), Limpopo (12.9 percent), and Gauteng (10.8
from 58.1 percent in 1996 to 90.3 percent in 2016.
percent).
The provinces with the largest proportions of access to electricity of more than 90 percent were the Western Cape, Free
•
The province with the largest proportion of house-
The number of people aged 25-34 with bachelor’s degrees
Access to basic services •
Approximately 13.3 percent (2.2 million) of households
•
The Western Cape had the lowest proportion of households that skipped a meal at 8.4 percent.
State, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
Nationally, nearly one-fifth of households reported to have
Of the 16.9 million households in South Africa, about 10.3 mil-
run out of money to buy food in the 12 months before the
lion (60.6 percent) have access to a flush toilet connected to
survey.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
29
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*Writer: Dineo Lolokwane
Provincial focus
Making the North West a destination of choice
O
n the border of South Africa and Botswana, lies the
Targeting the international market
106 512 square kilometres of the North West prov-
Recently, MEC Mohono visited the United Kingdom and
ince, which boasts impressive tourist attractions
Germany to market the province to international tourists.
like the Sun City, Pilanesberg National Park and Game Reserve,
“As a department, we appreciate and recognise the im-
Haartbeespoort Dam and the Magaliesburg mountain range.
portance and contribution of international tourists to-
It is these tourist attractions, among others, that the prov-
wards growing our provincial economy, that is why we
ince is looking to capitalise on, and in so doing draw more visitors to the province.
visited the two countries. “We will continue to interact and interface with this
Currently the province is the seventh most visited in the
important segment of the market as a practical expres-
country, but plans are in place to move it up the ranks to
sion of our commitment to aggressively use tourism as a
make it the fourth most visited.
critical sector in growing our economy and creating the
North West MEC for Tourism Desbo Mohono says the province is in the process of intensifying its marketing campaign in a bid to claim a bigger share of the tourists.
much-needed jobs.”
Investing in North West
“Through our brand innovation and marketing strategy
The department also wants to invest more in tourism-
called “A re yeng Bokone Bophirima” [Let’s go to the North
related events as a vehicle to lure more people to the
West Province], the province has lined up a series of events
province. This month it will host an investment and trade
that will woo tourists from across the globe, as well as
lekgotla.
fuel the Sho’t Left campaign, especially during September,
“The aim of this outlay is to attract big business that
which is celebrated as the Heritage and Tourism Month,”
will be given an opportunity to invest or give their inputs
she says.
in terms of tourism growth in the province.
32
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
“Among others they will be encouraged to invest in vil-
advantage of the province’s ever improving road networks
lages, townships and small dorpies in the province. We will
to explore our beautiful landscape and products it offers.
further showcase our potential and competence to host
“We will be encouraging our tour guides to push tourists
intercontinental meetings and conferences,” says MEC Mo-
to use our roads which are steadily improving by day. In
hono.
that manner tourists will enjoy the splendour of the prov-
She adds that the province has set its sights on hosting the upcoming World Tourism Conference. “We have state-of-the-art facilities and enough rooms and beds to accommodate thousands of tourists. It is now time
ince and get to meet with locals who have thus far proved to be welcoming and displayed humility towards tourists,” adds the MEC.
to showcase our potential as a province. We must show the
Equipping tourism operators
world that North West is also capable of hosting interna-
The department is also focusing on offering world-class
tional events and that we can meet the standards required
experience to tourists.
to host them, that includes our excellent food and wines that are internationally recognised.” According to MEC Mohono, all other activities planned for tourism month will also add to the province getting a bigger share of the cake in the industry.
Airports and roads ready for influx She says the provincial government, through the depart-
To achieve this, the department intends training both established and up-and-coming tourism businesses to ensure they provide excellent service to clients. “The province wants to focus on ensuring service excellence from about 70 product owners from the emerging to established tourism product owners. They will attend workshops where they will be taught about the journey to service excellence.
ment, is exploring plans to encourage more domestic and
“This programme is one of the many that is very close to
international visitors to use the province’s two airports -
my heart. For tourists to come back, the service rendered
Mahikeng and Pilanesberg International airports.
must be exceptional and we have to make them feel at
Partnerships with various stakeholders will be key to ensuring that this initiative is successful. The department also wants to encourage tourists to take
MEC Desbo Mohono with North West Tourism Board General Marketing Manager Mpho Motshegoa and Head of Department of North West Department of Tourism Department Advocate Neo Sephoti.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
home and welcomed.” The MEC hopes that news of the good service tourists receive will spread.
MEC Desbo Mohono.
33
Provincial focus
MEC Desbo Mohono hands over a token of appreciation to Executive Manager for Hospitality at Sun City Johan Scheepers during the 2016 Tourism Indaba.
owners, from tour guides, artists, rangers, hoteliers, chefs, marketers, crafters to everybody else who continues to contribute immensely to this industry. The men and women in this industry are helping us to realise the dream of “A Re Yeng Bokone Bophirima” as a destination of choice.
Opportunities for the youth The department also wants to ensure that the youth play meaningful role in the tourism industry. It will make it possible for a number of young people to attend the National Tourism Career Exhibition Expo (NTCE) through sponsorships. “This year we will be taking 45 tourism learners from Rooms at the Mahikeng Hotel School.
to the NTCE in Bloemfontein. The purpose of the NTCE is to expose our youth to various career options within
“Our main objective is to turn our tourists into ambassa-
the tourism industry.”
dors. They should go around spreading the word about the
“The department, through its agency – the North
excellent experiences and hospitable moments they had in
West Tourism Board, owns two hotels schools based in
the province to others. We want them to leave the province
Mahikeng and Taung where our youth can pursue
yearning for more.”
courses in hospitality management, professional cook-
MEC Mohono says the province’s tourism industry is only
ery, as well as food and beverage. Upon successful con-
as good as its operators, adding that it is important for the
clusion of these courses one can be hotel managers,
department to recognise the important role they play.
restaurant managers and lodge owners,” points out the
“We will recognise and reward tourism players and busi-
MEC.
nesses who work passionately with pride to deliver world-class products and services and in so doing, grow South Africa’s
* Dineo Lolokwane, Director: Corporate Commu-
global destination competitiveness.
nications and ICT at the North West Department
“In tourism we say our strength is in our tourism product
34
of Tourism.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
BA - Government highlife ad - Final.indd 1
2016/06/13 8:44 AM
IN OTHER NEWS
Compiled by: Dorris Simpson
SA tourist arrivals continue to grow Tourist arrivals in South Africa continue to grow, according to the latest tourism figures released by Statistics SA. More than 760 000 tourists arrived in the country in May this year, 11 percent more than in May 2015. This brings the total tourist arrivals for January to May 2016 to over 4.2 million, which is an increase of 15.7 percent compared to the same period last year. Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom said the continuing growth in international tourist arrivals was wonderful news for
our major overseas markets are perform-
the rankings as source markets for South
the tourism sector.
ing well,” he said.
Africa.
“It will have a multiplier effect on the
Minister Hanekom said among tra-
“The spectacular growth in tourist
many industries that support tourism, so
ditional overseas markets, the US had
numbers from China continues, with a
it’s good news for the wider economy
grown impressively at 18 percent this
50 percent year-on-year increase. This is
as well.
year, while Germany was a top performer
in keeping with the overall growth trend
“The growth from overseas markets in
with 21 percent growth. The UK, a lead-
this year from that market.”
the first five months of this year, com-
ing overseas market, has grown at a solid
pared with the same period last year, at
13.7 percent.
Minister Hanekom said Indian tourist numbers, at 14 237, showed a growth of
18.5 percent, shows that our enduring
“The positive performance of non-
37 percent from last May and India be-
tourism assets and our diverse products
traditional source markets like India and
came the third biggest overseas source
and offerings are making South Africa
China has also been sustained in May,
market to South Africa in that month.
a great value-for-money destination. All
and these two countries are moving up
“May is traditionally the month in which we receive the most tourists from that country. Also of note is that tourists from Saudi Arabia numbered more than 1 000 in May, an exciting new development. We will watch with interest to see if these numbers are sustained from this relatively small, but high-spending market,” Minister Hanekom said. The Minister said he was delighted with the impressive growth in tourist numbers so far this year. “Continued investment in creative and effective joint marketing, infrastructure, tourism experiences and human resources will allow the destination to both capitalise and continue with this trend.”
36
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
SA scientist wins Aids research award
Aids Programme of Research in South Africa.
Munyaradzi Pasipamire from Swaziland was recognised for her research,
A young South African scientist walked
The awards were presented to 10 re-
‘Evaluating the incremental value of
away with a prestigious HIV and AIDS re-
cipients by the International AIDS Soci-
using the TB LAM test in intensified
search award when five scientific awards
ety (IAS), the organiser of the AIDS con-
case finding for TB in people living
to recognise exceptional research were
ference. IAS said the prize highlighted
with HIV’.
presented at the 21st International AIDS
the impact of HIV on women and girls
The IAS said supporting talented re-
Conference held in Durban recently.
and sought to encourage investigators
searchers, across a variety of scientific
Dr Sinaye Ngcapu was awarded the
from low-and middle-income countries
disciplines was a key component of the
AIDS 2016 Women, Girls and HIV Inves-
to pursue research in this area. Dr Ngca-
organisation’s mission.
tigator's Prize for his winning abstract
pu won R28 000 for his efforts.
“These prizes encourage outstand-
entitled ‘The effect of injectable hormo-
Makhahliso Jubilee from Lesotho was
ing researchers to focus on some of
nal contraceptives on vaginal epithe-
awarded a prize for Excellence in HIV
the greatest scientific challenges as-
lium thickness and genital HIV target
Research Related to Children. The prize
sociated with the HIV epidemic, to put
cell density in women recently infected
supports investigators demonstrating
forth their best efforts to improve our
with HIV’. The announcement was made
excellence in research that is likely to
understanding of HIV, and develop the
at the Symposium Session at the AIDS
lead to improved services for children af-
knowledge and tools that can have a
2016 conference.
fected by HIV in low- or middle-income
global impact on this epidemic,” said
countries.
IAS President Chris Beyrer.
Dr Ngcapu works for the Centre for the
National Treasury appoints service providers
by different financial management and
The Bid Evaluation Committee was not
internal control systems, their total cost
limited to Treasury officials only but also
of ownership and value for money and;
comprised various stakeholders within
National Treasury has concluded the
level of ownership by municipalities
the local government sphere, including
process of establishing a panel of ser-
themselves.
municipal finance practitioners and ICT
vice providers to provide an Integrated
Over the research period of the devel-
Financial Management and Internal
opment of mSCOA, National Treasury
Of the total of 33 bidders who re-
Control System for local government.
consulted a wide variety of stakeholders.
sponded to the tender, seven have
This transversal contract (RT25-2016 for
The research found that mSCOA
been placed on the panel. Award letters
the period 1 June 2016 to 31 May 2019),
would only be effective if implemented
will be issued to the following service
is for municipalities to potentially pro-
through an integrated financial manage-
providers shortly:
cure financial management and inter-
ment and internal control systems that
• Altron TMT (Pty) Ltd T/A Bytes Univer-
nal control systems as they implement
is mSCOA compliant. Conclusion of the
the Regulation of a Standard Chart of
research process resulted in several mu-
• Camelsa Consulting Group (Pty) Ltd
Accounts, commonly referred to as the
nicipalities indicating their intention to
• OS Holdings (Pty) Ltd
mSCOA, said National Treasury.
acquire an integrated financial manage-
• Munsoft
ment and internal control system.
• Sage Pastel (Sage SA (Pty) Ltd
mSCOA was regulated on 22 April
managers.
sal Systems (Pty) Ltd
2014 and concurrently, National Treas-
National Treasury therefore issued the
ury commissioned research into the
transversal tender RT25-2016. Given the
financial management and internal
technical nature and sensitivity associ-
National Treasury strongly recom-
control systems used at municipalities.
ated with the procurement process, Na-
mended that municipalities consider
The aim of the research was to establish
tional Treasury applied a thorough pro-
using the service providers on the
the applicability of functionality offered
cess to identify service providers.
panel.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
• Sebata Municipal Solutions (Pty) Ltd • Vesta Technical Services (Pty) Ltd.
37
UPCOMING EVENTS
Compiled by: Sekgabo Kedijang
Geomatics Indaba
13 – 14 September 2016 The Geomatics Indaba, Africa’s leading conference, exhibition and training event
CITES (CoP17)
24 September – 5 October 2016 The 17th Conference of the Parties (CoP17) to the Convention on International Trade in
for geomatics, aims to bring together students, academics, specialists and decision-makers to discuss issues within the geomatics sector. The theme for the event is “Geomatic skills and technologies: growing professionals to secure our future”.
Endangered Species, Wild Fauna and Flora
The Geomatics Indaba will be hosted by the South African Geomatics Institute
CITES, will evaluate the progress made since
with the support of the departments of Rural Development and Land Reform,
2013, and take decisions on what additional
Science and Technology and Environmental Affairs.
measures are needed to end illicit wildlife trafficking.
The three-day Indaba will highlight the technologies, applications, solutions and issues facing South Africa, Africa and society in fields ranging from geomat-
With 182 parties, the CITES is now one of
ics and geographic information science, surveying (land, mining, engineering,
the world's most powerful tools for wildlife
construction, hydrographic, photogrammetric, aerial, RPAS and space-based),
conservation through the regulation of in-
GNSS, GPS, military, navigation and positioning technologies and remote sens-
ternational trade.
ing and photogrammetry, among others.
CoP17 will consider a number of proposals
The Geomatics Indaba will take place at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg
to bring additional species under CITES trade
from 13 to 14 September.
controls, as well as to tackle issues concern-
For more information: visit http://geomatics.org.za/
ing livelihoods, the review of significant trade, traceability, and the effectiveness of CITES implementation, among other things. The CoP will also address issues to do with divergent approaches amongst CITES parties on matters affecting trade in elephants and their ivory, as well as rhino horn. The issue of sustainable use of wildlife and the livelihoods of rural communities is also high on the agenda of CoP17.
The International Conference on Research Infrastructures (ICRI) 3 – 5 October 2016
The ICRI is a global forum in the research infrastructures domain.
The CoP will for the first time consider a draft
It provides unique opportunities to share insights in this field from around
resolution on corruption and wildlife crime,
the world, and promote international cooperation among key stakeholders
and it is being asked to give further attention
and professionals.
to the work of the International Consortium
The conference aims to explore the move towards reinforced cooperation
on Combating Wildlife Crime. The CoP will
on globally relevant research infrastructures and discuss concrete steps in this
also consider well-targeted interventions to
regard. It will also analyse the ‘state of play’ in infrastructures, as well as new
combat illegal trade as it affects a number
and emerging trends. The goal is to develop global approaches for prioritising,
of species.
accessing, financing and governing research infrastructures.
CoP 17 takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 25 September to 5 October. For more information visit:
https://cites.org/cop17
38
The conference is being co-organised by the Department of Science and Technology and the European Commission. The conference will take place in Cape Town from 3 to 5 October. For more information visit: https://icri2016.co.za/
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
iNTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
*Writer: Derek Hanekom
Opening up the African skies T
he aviation industry is an essential catalyst for global
newcomer in the aviation industry to accelerate its own
tourism and trade. Due to its speed, efficiency and
development by not repeating the mistakes of those who
capacity to transcend geographical barriers, air trans-
started before us. We can build on the best practices of win-
portation has become an indispensable part of the integration
ning destinations as we build our aviation capacity. The rapid
of the global economy.
growth and development of the aviation industry is a stra-
Africa’s economy is projected to grow significantly in the
tegic prerequisite to attain competitiveness.
near future, and new prospects for the aviation industry will
South Africa’s aerospace sector is now contributing an es-
emerge. Improved air linkages will facilitate further develop-
timated 2.1 percent to gross domestic product and around
ment, making it essential that we all support the agenda
4.3 percent to employment opportunities, which includes
for accelerated growth.
direct aviation and tourism business operations.
In 2014, the world’s airlines ferried about 3.2 billion passengers to their destinations, which is a 6.5 percent increase
Making the most of aviation
from the previous year. The African airline industry grew by
The African aviation market remains largely unexploited.
seven percent. The high growth rate is largely attributable to
Like all our sister countries on the continent, we in South
systematic and long-term investment in airport infrastruc-
Africa are determined to rid the continent of poverty, disease
ture and the adoption of the open skies policy.
and civil war through our active participation in the African
While growth in African aviation might offer us some hope,
Union and other multilateral structures. With our diversified
the hard truth is that our continent still lags far behind our
industrial base, modern infrastructure and sophisticated
international counterparts in the aviation stakes.
financial markets, we are regarded as a key gateway into
The Yamoussoukro Declaration
Africa. The impact of the aviation industry on sectors like tourism
The Aviation Africa Summit in 2015 noted that the failure
and cargo freight makes the development of aviation facili-
by the continent to implement the Yamoussoukro Declara-
ties a key success factor for economic development on the
tion had been detrimental for the continent. The declaration
continent. Africa’s diverse economic sectors stand to benefit
calls for the liberalisation of African skies for African airlines.
immensely from the integrated world market. The commit-
It aims to establish a single African air transport market by
ment by many African countries to construct and upgrade
avoiding market restrictions imposed by bilateral air service
airports demonstrates the continent’s recognition of the role
agreements.
that a healthy aviation sector plays in its competitiveness
The African Business Aviation Association’s 2015 report
and growth prospects.
points out that Africa has to improve on training and skills
Impediments to the growth of Africa’s aviation industry
development, safety and security, infrastructure, airspace
include poor intra-African connectivity; weak policy and
and airport access to match our international competitors
legislation governing the aviation sector; the high cost of
and to take advantage of future growth prospects. We must
doing business and poor infrastructure.
also reduce our taxes and fees. As a continent on the rise, Africa can use its status as a
40
Limited intra-African connectivity is reflected in the schedules of our national airlines, which tend to fly frequently to
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
destinations outside the continent, especially to Europe, with far
can aviation industry. Africa is implementing the 2012 Abuja
fewer flights to other African destinations.
Declaration to promote air safety standards that match the
People traveling from Johannesburg to Rabat in Morocco, to use
world’s minimum safety standards. Through the South African
but one example, may have to fly via Paris instead of enjoying a
Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), we continue to implement
direct flight within the continent.
sound and effective safety standards in South Africa.
Travelling between Kenya and London is more convenient than flying from Nairobi to Maputo in Mozambique.
Transforming the African airline business On a brighter note, Africa is gradually addressing some of these
Other factors that contribute to the challenges faced by the African aviation industry include a lack of resources to replace old aircraft, the low pace of acquiring new technologies and poor maintenance of existing fleets.
challenges. Resolutions taken during the meeting of the African
The National Airlift Strategy
Airlines Association in Kenya in 2013 included calls for unrestricted
South Africa’s Airlift Strategy makes a stable and sustainable
intra-Africa market access and regulatory alignment among African
aviation sector a priority. We have identified a number of
states. The gathering recommended the creation of even playing
interventions, including ensuring world-class aviation
fields to promote fair competition. The commitment to establish
infrastructure and services; ensuring that we have a stable
aviation hubs, and the entry of affordable airlines, can transform
airport system, regulating aircraft emissions around airports
the African airline business by enabling direct flights between
and applying a balanced approach towards managing aircraft
destinations on the continent.
noise.
The Yamoussoukro Declaration calls for greater collaboration and
The National Airlift Strategy, along with our aviation
the promotion of internal market liberalisation and fair competi-
legislation, indicates our commitment to growing this sector.
tion. This is a crucial developmental strategy to address industry
The South African aviation sector is stable; we must now
concerns around safety, environmental protection and security.
become globally competitive.
The liberalisation of the African skies, without compromising na-
South Africa has participated actively at the International
tional security needs, could generate 155 000 new jobs and inject
Civil Aviation Negotiation forum and has supported initiatives
another $1.3 billion into the continent’s 12 leading economies.
to expand air services that benefit our economy and spatial
We have already recognised that poor aviation facilities have
development initiatives.
impeded the continent’s development. But investment in infra-
South Africa is committed to funding developmental
structure, especially in modernising airports to handle the new
projects that benefit the entire continent. Our country is
generation of aircraft such as the Airbus 380 and the Boeing 747-8,
regarded as the springboard to establish strong aviation
and cooperation with regional trade blocks like the European Un-
hubs for sustainable trade and tourism routes that could be
ion, is improving the performance of African airlines. This includes
marketed to potential investors in the world market.
the installation of modern satellite services essential for safe and efficient aviation. The 2010 FIFA World Cup brought a major facelift and upgrade of South Africa’s airport infrastructure. This included the construction
South African Airways continues to secure landing rights on the continent and the rest of the world, and its fleet includes new aircraft that are competitive in the global market.
of King Shaka International Airport in Durban. South Africa con-
Sustainable growth has to be supported by skilled personnel,
tinues to place infrastructure development at the top its develop-
stringent safety measures and quality assurance through
mental agenda, with further improvement in airports as a priority.
constant maintenance of aircraft. Skills development remains
Ensuring safety and security
among our greatest and most immediate challenges, and is crucial to the growth of the aviation industry.
The safety and security of passengers and aircraft is, of course, absolutely crucial, and requires special attention to ensure that
*Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism.
it is not an obstacle to the growth of air transport on the African continent. Focus on safety is now taking centre stage in the Afri-
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
This article first appeared in UBUNTU magazine.
41
FEATURE
Writer: Noluthando Mkhize
Action plan for SA’s future
Government also instructed municipalities with high water
losses to indicate how they would curb this problem. “Priority continues to be placed on water saving and minimisation of water losses. By September 2016, agreements are to be completed with municipalities with high water losses, to facilitate placement of agents, and a clear funding model is to be completed.” Government had also identified a set of budget priorities for 2017/18, which focusses on maintaining infrastructure spend, strengthening support for skills development and maintainMinister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Jeff Radebe.
A
ing real levels of spending on the poor, he said.
Businesses to get a boost s government looks to the future, it will require sup-
Minister Radebe also announced that government had set
port from all sectors of society to ensure economic
aside 30 percent of its procurement spend for services from
growth in South Africa.
small businesses and cooperatives.
After finalising decisions that will move the country forward
He said a new Procurement Bill developed by National
during its recent Cabinet Lekgotla, government has now called
Treasury that will be introduced next year, will ensure that
on all of society to get on board.
30 percent of government contracts are set aside for small
“Firm decisions were taken on concrete actionable plans
companies, cooperatives and township businesses.
which will take implementation of the Medium-Term Strategic
“Government will introduce legislative amendments to im-
Framework 2014-2019 and the Nine-Point Plan to a higher
plement the 30 percent set aside to unlock the potential of
level.
SMMEs, cooperatives and township and rural enterprises by
“These plans require all sectors, which include government,
March 2017,” said Minister Radebe.
civil society, business and labour, to roll up their sleeves and
He added that this was part of government’s evaluations of
work together to ensure that together we take South Africa
financial incentives for business to strengthen and achieve
on a sustainable social development and economic growth
greater value for money to enhance more inclusive growth.
trajectory,” said Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Jeff Radebe. One of the plans aims to ensure that more funds are pumped into municipal infrastructure maintenance. “An action plan to ensure greater expenditure on municipal infrastructure maintenance and to enforce proper financial asset management will be developed and implemented to
Government will continue to focus on labour-intensive sectors, including the need for various mechanisms to support greater impact on jobs, such as the use of our incentive programmes, amongst others: clothing, textiles, leather and footwear value-chain; agro-processing and business process services, the Minister said.
extend the lifespan and quality of our infrastructure assets,”
Departments hard at work
he added.
With regard to energy challenges, Minister Radebe said the
44
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Department of Energy will complete the integrated energy
“Strengthening of leadership to execute the turnaround
plan and integrated resource plan for electricity by the end
strategies remains critical. Eskom has largely been stabilised,
of the year.
with both operational and financial performance improving.”
“This will provide certainty on electricity pricing and investment in the generation capacity.”
The Inter Ministerial Committee will continue to oversee 13 other SOC-specific interventions.
He added that the Department of Trade and Industry will also
The lekgotla also emphasised the importance of the finalisa-
finalise the strategy for deploying locally developed technolo-
tion of the shareholder ownership model, which will inform
gies by the end of 2016.
the legislative framework for SOC reform by November 2016.
“The Department of Science and Technology and the National Treasury will secure additional funds to sustain and expand
The Nine-Point Plan
the sector innovation fund, through the economic competitive
Minister Radebe noted that implementation of the Nine-
support package,” he said.
Point Plan to grow the South African economy is already
In fast tracking the implementation of the South African Connect Strategy to connect schools, health facilities and government offices, the ICT Policy will be finalised and approved. A Broadband War Room will be established to speed up implementation.
State-owned companies
under way. “The focus is on key programmes and projects to deepen the implementation of the Nine-Point Plan in the next financial year. This led to the adoption of key high-impact projects for the next financial year and beyond, which aim to have a substantial positive impact on the economy through unlocking key levers.”
The lekgotla also indicated that work needs to start on the
The Minister added that the Inter Ministerial Committee on
creation of the Presidential State-owned Company Coordinat-
Investment, chaired by President Jacob Zuma, will coordinate
ing Council, said the Minister.
40 priority investment projects across government.
“This will provide President Jacob Zuma a line of sight on
“These 40 projects include agro-processing and agri-parks,
strategic decisions and interventions to create state-owned
energy and infrastructure, manufacturing and services pro-
companies (SOCs) that play a transformative role in a capable
jects.
developmental state.”
“These projects were selected based on having a high-scale
Cabinet also reflected on progress made and the next steps
economic impact linked to the Nine-Point Plan; being able
in the reform of SOCs since the Cabinet Lekgotla of February
to take-off within the next two years; and able to crowd-in
2015, in view of the important role played by SOCs in radical
further investment and community benefits.”
socio-economic transformation, he added. Minister Radebe said the implementation of the stabilisation programme has progressed in varying degrees.
He added that the successful Oceans Economy intervention will scale up projects to expand coastal and marine tourism to create jobs.
President Jacob Zuma and Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa in discussion during the Cabinet Lekgotla. Public Sector Manager • September 2016
45
FEATURE
*Writer: Advocate Sonwabile Mancotywa I
Rediscovering the nation’s soul H
eritage Month in September signals a time for hope
Cultural self-determination
and growth. Nature awakens from the deep winter
The conflicts over municipal boundaries in some parts of our
hibernation and plants sprout their best colours. If
country have revealed the wounded nation that we are. This
everything natural around us takes September as a month of
is not only about geographical boundaries and the economic
renewal, then we the people should also respond in a similar
prospects. It is not only a strive for politics and economies but
way. Heritage is one way of also joining the symphony of nature.
also an underlying cultural self-determination. The passionate
A nation as colourful and diverse as South Africa does that every
protection of cultural freedoms by communities is a signal of
year on Heritage Day, 24 September. This helps us to know each
how much of reparation there needs to be in our nation. This
other better by appreciating the cultures and their associations
culture and heritage the soul of a nation.
as the nation creates new memories for future generations.
Unlike a few years ago when the vibrant society radiated na-
While there is so much of cultural diversity to marvel at, many
tional optimism, today’s experience is somewhat different. The
cannot help but ponder on why the people of this country do
euphoric enthusiasm to build a nation was pinned on hopes
not seem to have reached out to each other over the past 22
for reconciliation. This unification of the black and white race
years. Perhaps the pockets of incidents of racial tension have
has had its trials in many ways.
created a misconception of resistance. It may also be real. The courts have been inundated with civil cases of racial disputes
Nation-building
from workplaces and social settings.
The resilience of South Africans could not be dampened by
In 2014, the South African Human Rights Commission warned
all these strenuous interracial incompatibilities. Instead, many
about the rising racism complaints that it receives annually.
disenfranchised societies intensified their efforts at nation-
In the same year, 45 percent of the commission’s complaints
building. Exceptions are granted. However, many state institu-
were race related. These incidents that may, to the ordinary
tions have made remarkable progress in co-ntributing to South
citizen be occurring in small numbers, have a devastating ef-
Africa’s nationhood.
fect of polarising societies.
46
A national public holiday, Reconciliation Day on 16 Public Sector Manager • September 2016
December, was dedicated to see this vision through. This day
Liberation heritage is a new typology of heritage, which rec-
is the only national day of commemoration that follows the
ognises the collective and shared memory of African people
National Heritage Day celebration of 24 September. These
through their multiple experiences on their road to freedom.
two days carry the commitment of the nation to celebrate
The project seeks to ensure the memorialisation of the lib-
diversity and seek national unity.
eration struggles of the people of South Africa and African
Intercultural appreciation
solidarity. It will finally be preserved for the public through a network of heritage sites that encapsulates the history of
The National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) also
the events and people who shaped the freedom struggles.
dedicated several programmes to enhance the intercultural
The first instalment of the heritage sites that will be globally
appreciation of the country’s diverse heritages. Grants were
recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and
specifically extended to heritage community projects that
Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee
would, under normal circumstances, not be able to be funded
were presented to stakeholders at the 40th Session that was
by the conventional financial institutions. The heritage practi-
held in Istanbul, Turkey in July 2016. The process of in-depth
tioners operating as non-profit organisations have produced
research is currently taking place in preparation of the final
programmes and publications that inspire the nation to value
dossier submission to UNESCO. This will again unlock the eco-
heritage.
nomic potential of heritage and create tourist and community
Together with the Department of Basic Education, the NHC
development corridors.
touches the lives of young people nationally through the Herit-
Many other institutions and individual citizens have con-
age Education Schools Outreach Programme that encourages
tributed to rediscovering the soul of our nation through its
the self-discovery of cultural traditions, values and heritage.
heritage and culture. We are looking forward to an even higher
This takes place in the form of a challenge among schools in
involvement of communities in embracing the South African
regions and provinces, and culminates in a national challenge
heritages. We wish the nation a happy Heritage Day on 24
where each province is represented by one school. It provides
September.
exposure to non-participating learners who also get an op-
The NHC can be reached on www.nhc.org.za, heritage@nhc.
portunity to learn about their culture and heritage.
org.za or 012 348 1663.
Liberation heritage
*Advocate Sonwabile Mancotywa is the CEO of the
Another flagship programme is the Liberation Heritage Project.
National Heritage Council of South Africa.
What is heritage? According to the definition adopted by the NHC: “Heritage is what is preserved from the past as the living collective memory of a people not only to inform the present about the past but also to equip successive generations to fashion their future. It is what creates a sense of identity and assures rootedness and continuity, so that what is brought out by dynamism of culture is not changed for its own sake, but it is a result of people’s conscious choice to create a better life.”
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
47
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2015/09/04
3:38 PM
FEATURE
Writer: Amukelani Chauke
Innovation: The future of the public service
Home Affairs as one of the shining examples, adding that optimising and tracking at each step of the value chain enabled the department to reduce the delivery time for an identity document from more than 54 days to less than a week. It is important for other departments to also bring innovation into the equation, he pointed out. “This can only be achieved when government departments and state institutions get the basics right and refrain from Public Service and Administration Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi.
viewing innovation in isolation, as an ‘optional extra’. “As our insights into processes improve and technology develops, new opportunities arise to shorten or improve
I
service delivery value chains. nnovation in the public sector should be an essential part of service delivery if government is to effectively improve the quality of the lives of South Africans.
This is according to Public Service and Administration
channels are made possible.”
Departments getting it right
Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi, whose department, together
The Minister noted several examples of how departments
with the Centre for Public Service Innovation (CPSI), hosted
were turning to innovation to improve their services.
the 10th Public Sector Innovation Conference in Cape Town recently.
This includes the recently introduced eHome Affairs portal, which allows citizens to apply for documents and thereafter
He said that at a time when public officials are often la-
walk into selected bank branches to get their biometrics cap-
belled non-innovative, bureaucratic and somewhat non-
tured digitally. This seamless process has resulted in citizens
visionary, embracing innovation remains critical.
getting their identity documents within days.
Maximising the impact of innovation on service delivery should, therefore, be the order of the day. The Minister cited the modernisation of the Department of
50
“Some services may even become obsolete as new service
In addition, South Africans can conveniently renew vehicle licences at the Post Office instead of licencing offices. And as announced by the Minister of Health recently, South
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Africans will soon benefit from an ATM-like machine that will be
uphold Batho Pele principles when delivering services to the
dispensing chronic medication, courtesy of one of the previous
people.
CPSI Public Sector Innovation Awards finalists.
This means public servants are expected to promote
Minister Ramatlhodi said it was important for public officials
accessibility to public services, and treat citizens with courtesy,
to always be on their toes and question existing service de-
timeliness in the provision of services and to avail information
livery value chains and challenge themselves to significantly
on public services.
improve these through innovation.
Public officials are also expected to be knowledgeable and
However, he cautioned against the introduction of initiatives that would only waste state resources.
competent, public facilities should be in good condition, and citizens should be afforded fairness and equity, value for money
“While there has been a measure of success in some of the solutions that have emerged, many have failed to deliver on
on services rendered and the opportunity for redress where a promised standard has not been met.
the expected value proposition, resulting in wastage of state
The Minister said to live up to these expectations, there is
resources and mounting frustration among public officials
a need for public servants to intensify their efforts to be in-
and citizens alike. “Due to the urgency and pressure to find solutions to service delivery challenges, public officials should be on alert not to be caught up in the euphoria of glitzy, off-the-shelf and ready-made overrated solutions that are costly but with unsatisfactory outcomes.”
Collaboration needed The conference, which is hosted annually by the CPSI, was first held in 2007 and is used as a platform to instil innovation in the public sector to improve service delivery.
“While there has been a measure of success in some of the solutions that have emerged, many have failed to deliver on the expected value proposition, resulting in wastage of state resources and mounting frustration among public officials and citizens alike. ”
The Minister said all government institutions needed to reinforce and collaborate widely and across all sectors of the economy. “Sustainable development requires multiple, targeted and effectively coordinated interventions. “A silo approach will not only lead to an inefficient utilisation
novatively responsive to the needs of our people. “The task of positioning our Public Service to function optimally continues. “In terms of the National Development Plan, the role of innovation as a catalyst in ensuring an effective state machinery, is indisputable.” He added that innovation can only thrive in a permissive and supportive environment. “This is true for us as a country at large where our competitiveness is dependent on a strong National System of Innovation and it is equally true for a public
sector that should be solution-focused. “Working together with strategic partners such as academia, industry, civil society and specifically our National System of Innovation galvanises our efforts to optimise the impact of innovation.”
of scarce resources, but the development impact will also be
Addressing service delivery failures
compromised.”
The Minister added that for innovation to thrive, there is a
As insights into processes improve and technology develops, new opportunities arise to shorten or improve service delivery value chains, he noted. “Some services may even become obsolete as new service channels are made possible.”
Using innovation to put people first The public service machinery has been configured to always
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
need to address the root causes of service delivery failures. The process of innovating service delivery solutions should unfold alongside and be informed and influenced by the service delivery value chain. “The open innovation paradigm as well as the open government approach that we are excited about are becoming ever-expanding resources for public officials as they allow for citizens, SMMEs and social entrepreneurs to co-respond
51
FEATURE
and co-design new solutions and make well informed and
Encouraging participatory citizenship
grounded interventions in existing value chains.
The Minister said participatory citizenship needed to be
“Again, this should not be viewed as ‘new’ fads but rather
encouraged so that people can guide government on how
as opportunities to leverage the shared creative spirit of
it delivers services and it is able to gauge their opinions
our great nation, remembering that we are mandated by
on its performance.
our Constitution to ensure that all citizens of this country gain easy access to all services.”
bonga Cwele, who also attended the conference, cited
Minister Ramatlhodi added that the public service needed
the National Treasury’s Central Supplier Database as one
to be robust and well-equipped with the necessary capacity
of the innovations that fit into government’s vision to roll-
to execute the policies of government.
out eGovernance.
Public officials need to ensure that the beneficiaries of
eGovernance envisages a future where the public service
services are afforded the human dignity enshrined in the
moves from paper and where government services are
Constitution.
digitised.
Section 195 (1) of the Constitution states that the public
Minister Cwele said South Africa should move swiftly to
service should be governed by some values and principles
realise a future where police will take statements digitally
including a high standard of professional ethics, effective-
and complaints of lost documents or dockets will be a
ness and efficiency, responsiveness, accountability, and a
thing of the past.
development-oriented public service. These values also emphasise that government’s development programmes must be effective.
52
Telecommunications and Postal Services Minister Siya-
Innovation improving education Thuli Radebe, the CEO of the Centre for Public Service Inno-
“Looking back over the years, as South Africans, we can
vation, said there are several innovations that she is proud
take pride in the successes that has been realised in some
of that have improved matric results at disadva-ntaged
government programmes, including the modernisation
schools.
efforts undertaken by the Department of Home Affairs, but
She said through the eLearning platform, one well-re-
there are also major challenges such as the inability of the
sourced school in Mpumalanga was connected to up to
economy to create jobs on a significant scale.
four destitute schools with the use of technology.
“This puts into focus the importance of this conference
The schools then interact with the main school through
where public officials are encouraged to take particular
interactive boards which allows the less advantaged stu-
cognisance of the profound role and significance of innova-
dents to gain valuable knowledge.
tion, creativity and open mindedness in determining the
“The benefits there are very clear, where schools have
direction and approach that we take in terms of service
moved from a zero percent pass rate in maths and science
delivery improvement.”
to 99 percent,” she said.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
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FEATURE
Remembering
Reverend Makhenkesi Stofile
R
everend Makhenkesi Stofile, who passed away on 15 August,
life was not given to regret, for he was an archi-
was a rare leader who lived his life in service of the country.
tect of hope and a combatant for social justice.”
Paying tribute to Reverend Stofile, who was laid to rest
He conveyed condolences to the Stofile fam-
at a funeral service in his home town of Alice in the Eastern Cape,
ily on behalf of government and the people of
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was one-of-a-kind and
South Africa.
was prepared to make the necessary sacrifices.
“May you find comfort and strength in the fact
The funeral took place at the University
that he lived his life to the fullest and served his
of Fort Hare, where Reverend Stofile
people with courage and distinction. We cel-
was serving as Chancellor at the
ebrate a life lived in service and devotion. We
time of his death.
A revolutionary leader Delivering the eulogy at
celebrate the outstanding contribution that he has made to our country and to its people. Reverend Makhenkesi Stofile was a person of great courage.
the Special Official Funeral
“He risked his life for his people and his move-
Service, Deputy President
ment. He is one of the many leaders who en-
Ramaphosa said: “He was
dured persecution and imprisonment. He fought
a revolutionary reverend
for the people, no matter the personal cost, be-
and a revolutionary poli-
cause it was what his conscience demanded,”
tician. He was unwaver-
said the Deputy President.
ing in his faith and firm in his political convictions.
A dedicated public servant
“We can say with convic-
He recalled that Reverend Stofile was a selfless
tion that Makhenkesi Stofile’s
public servant, committed academic, devout spiritual leader and a dedicated father. “He was an astute diplomat, a passionate community builder and an avid sportsperson. He was deeply committed to non-racialism. “He worked tirelessly to bring together South Africans of all races into a common effort to build a new, united nation. He firmly believed in gender equality and in the advancement of women in all spheres of national life,” added Deputy President Ramaphosa. After learning of Reverend Stofile’s death,
54
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
President Jacob Zuma also extended his condolences to his family and friends. “The nation mourns the passing of this distinguished freedom fighter and a dedicated servant of our people, for whom no task was big or small. We wish to convey our deepest condolences to his family during this painful and difficult period,” said the President. He had also instructed that the National Flag fly at halfmast at every station in the country from 18 August until the evening of 25 August 2016, the day of Reverend Stofile’s burial.
A life well lived Born on 27 December 1944, in the Winterberg District of Adelaide, Eastern Cape, Reverend Stofile joined politics in 1963 as a member of the African Students' Association. He was elected the regional secretary and National Executive Member of the United Democratic Front between 1983 and 1986. He joined the ANC in 1958 and was arrested and served an 11-year imprisonment for terrorism under the then Ciskean Internal Security Act in 1986.
diplomatic posting as South Africa’s Ambassador to Germany. He was minister of the Presbyterian Church of South Africa since 1975 and had a love for sports and sports administration. He was highly respected and considered a strict disciplinarian
He was ANC Chief Whip following the democratic elec-
and a fierce administrator from his days at the University of Fort
tions in 1994. He served as the Provincial Chairperson of
Hare and during the struggle against racism in sport at the height
the ANC in the Eastern Cape in 1996, and was appointed
of the struggle for liberation.
as Premier of the Eastern Cape in 1997.
Reverend Stofile held a number of presidential roles for sporting
Reverend Stofile was then appointed Minister of Sport
bodies. He was President of the South Eastern Districts Rugby Union
and Recreation, a position he held from 2004 to 2010. At
from 1975-1982 and also a member of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
the time of his passing, he had recently returned from a
Local Organising Committee Board of Directors. .
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
55
Writer: Albert Pule Photographer: Zakhele Nkwanyana
FEATURE
New look NDP aims to inspire He said the work done by various artists encouraged South Africans to be a socially cohesive nation. “We welcome initiatives that are already existing by various sectors which are playing their part, such as the Eziko production group that has developed an eduplay on the NDP and its key critical areas. This eduplay is exemplary of a socially cohesive society that strives for a common national identity.” The Minister also acknowledged the role played by entrepreneurs. “There are also young entrepreneurs from Cape Town who have developed a business idea called Eza Sekasi Fridays and Deputy Minister Buti Manamela, Minister Jeff Radebe and Acting Director-General Tshediso Matona with the NDP mascot showing off the new logo.
it demonstrates the creation of decent employment in the townships to champion the NDP. “This initiative is a stimulus for the statement made by young
G
people who adopted the National Youth Policy and declared overnment has called on the country to get behind the National Development Plan (NDP), which has a new brand identity and logo to inspire South Africans.
that they do not want a hand out but a hand up.” Businesses and people in rural areas also have a role to play, he noted.
The Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and
“During Youth Month, I realised that the NDP is alive when
Evaluation, Jeff Radebe, who recently launched the new logo
a young man from Mthatha shared his success story of form-
and brand identity, said South Africans should use the brand
ing a vegetable growers’ association to ensure food security,
identity to work together and move the country forward.
economic viability and the creation of jobs in his community.
“Each and every one of us have to play our part in imple-
“The young man, through the association, is propelling the
menting the NDP, our Vision 2030, and let us use this NDP
ideals of the NDP for smallholder farmer development and
brand identity together to build a truly democratic, united,
agrarian transformation.”
non-sexist, non-racial and prosperous South Africa.”
Minister Radebe added that government welcomed partner-
In 2012, government adopted a long-term vision, called the
ships with business and labour that would rally around the
NDP, that is aimed at reducing poverty, unemployment and
NDP, to ensure that there is a collective effort in workplace
inequality through the radical transformation of the economy
conflict reduction and improved cooperation between gov-
by creating employment opportunities.
ernment, organised business and organised labour.
Two years after the adoption of the NDP, in 2014, govern-
“Business must also contribute to productive investment
ment adopted the Medium Term Strategic Plan (MTSF) 2014-
through the Infrastructure Build Programme and competitive
2019 as the first programme to implement the NDP.
enhancement in productive sectors of the economy.”
The MTSF identified 14 key priorities that are required to implement the NDP. Among them is quality basic education,
He also called on the media to continue holding government accountable to ensure that that the NDP is implemented.
a long and healthy life for all, that all people in South Africa
“We urge you, members of the media, to uphold your man-
are safe and should feel safe and decent employment through
date as the fourth estate by ensuring that we as government
inclusive economic growth.
are implementing the NDP, by asking the right questions and
Minister Radebe urged the various sectors of South African
holding us to account on performance agreements, deliv-
society to play their part in ensuring that the country realises
ery agreements and MTSF targets that we have set,” said the
the vision in the NDP.
Minister.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
57
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A consortium, led by the University of Cape Town, has been awarded this project.
and the success or failure depends on the capacity to manage and manipulate massive volumes of data in order to extract information.
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The department is the key provider of cyberinfrastructure and access to the global Internet for South Africa’s public research system, including all universities and science councils. At present, the main components are the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) in Cape Town, the South African National Research Network (SANReN), and the Data Intensive Research Initiative of South Africa (DIRISA), which is focused on the establishment of data centres across the country. These components are managed by the Meraka Institute, which is an operating division of the CSIR, with an annual DST investment of about R300 million.
With the vast Northern Cape being home to mega astronomy initiatives like the MeerKAT/SKA and the Southern African Large Telescope, it is important to note that the province’s new Sol Plaatje University will be involved in both consortia. The University’s strategic focus is on information technology skills development, and the province will benefit from these projects. The DST is eager to see the province’s young people skilled as a result of such initiatives so that they can take up opportunities offered by the astronomy projects in the area. The DST will invest a total of approximately R60 million over three years to the establishment of the national e-science teaching and training platform and the regional data centre. The DST believes cooperation of South African universities and research councils on such strategic matters is important for the country’s future. The big data revolution involves a transition in which data becomes a new resource for economic development
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For the country to grow at the required rate as set out in the National Development Plan, it needs to change gear by building capacity in the production and dissemination of knowledge. Investments in massive cyberinfrastructure facilities like the CHPC represents a deliberate move by this country to spend on modernising research and development capacity. High performance computing and advanced data technologies have been deemed powerful tools in enhancing the competiveness of regions and nations.
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Writer: Amukelani Chauke Photographer: Sgt Ronald Knight
FEATURE
Honouring a
South African heroine
Krotoa’s spirit was symbolically returned to the grounds of the Castle of Good Hope.
T
he untold stories of great icons dating back to many centuries exposes South Africa’s rich heritage. One of these is the story of Krotoa, a Khoi woman,
whose role during a 17th century war, while she was a slave, will go down as a defining moment in our history. This year marks the commemoration of the Castle of Good Hope, where Krotoa worked as a servant in the household of Dutch settlers’ leader in the Cape of Good Hope, Jan Van Riebeeck, from the time she was 10 years old. Despite its rich heritage, the story of the Castle can never be truly complete without the story of Krotoa.
“We have chosen the life of our mother Krotoa, to signify the somehow uncelebrated role of women in shaping events that have crafted the destiny of our nation’s history,” she said. While history teachers have taught learners about the story of Jan van Riebeeck – the coloniser of Cape Town, who docked his three ships in the Cape in 1652 - the story of Krotoa is even more telling. She is credited with being instrumental in working out the terms for ending the first Dutch-Khoi War in the 17th century.
Shaping the nation’s destiny
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-
Now hailed as a Khoi heroine, Krotoa demonstrated an apt-
Nqakula recently visited Cape Town to commemorate the
ness for languages, and later established herself as a reliable
life of Krotoa, which she said was a significant moment, as it
interpreter between the Dutch and the Khoi tribes.
symbolised the painful role that women have played in the country’s history.
60
Having foreseen the inevitability of change, Krotoa acted as facilitator between the Dutch and the Khoi, resulting in her
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
being ostracised by the Khoi people. She was baptised as a Christian and named Eva, and was later
and how he arrived in South Africa when he was in fact was looking for spices.
married off to a Danish surgeon called Pieter van Meerhof,
“No one ever told the story of Krotoa and for me, the prepa-
in what was to become the first recorded official mixed race
ration of this anniversary has been an eye opener. It has been
marriage in South Africa.
very empowering. It has helped me understand the history
After her husband was killed in a slave hunt in Madagascar, Krotoa returned to the Dutch Colony to reclaim her status, but was unfortunately declined. Krotoa was later banished to Robben Island where she stayed until she died. Her children were sent to Mauritius, but returned to South Africa after her death. Her remains were buried on the grounds of the Castle of Good Hope. About 100 years after she was buried, her bones were re-
even more as a South African. “It is important that we are told of the story of a South African woman. For me, she is a symbol of defiance, a symbol of resistance, a symbol of resilience. “She symbolises everything a South African woman stands for.”
The Castle of Good Hope This year marks 350 years since the Castle of Good Hope was built, the Minister noted.
moved from the grounds of the Castle of Good Hope and
After centuries of the castle standing as an immovable for-
reburied in an unmarked grave of Die Groote Kerk, near the
tress of colonial majesty, it now stands as a monument of hope.
now Church Square in the Cape Town CBD. When the Minister Mapisa-Nqakula visited Cape Town in August, during an occasion that coincided with the 60th an-
She said it was important that the Castle of Good Hope, which also housed the first formal seat of Parliament, is seen by all citizens as part of their heritage.
niversary month of the Women’s March to the Union Buildings,
This year, the commemoration will see the restoration of the
she attended the repatriation of Krotoa’s spirit from the church
castle that has over the years gone from being a bastion of
back to the Castle of Good Hope, where the Minister unveiled
colonial oppression, a prison that enslaved Africans, a sea route
a monument to honour the Khoi heroine.
station that plundered the country’s resources to a symbol of
The story of Krotoa is important as her role helped to shape the destiny of the nation, said the Minister. “[The commemoration of Krotoa is] very important because this is a woman who is the founder of this nation. “If you listen to her story, if you listen to her experiences, you actually realise just how strong a woman she was. “She was a slave, abused by her masters, but she wouldn’t allow that to determine her history.”
A symbol of defiance She added that despite being depicted as a controversial figure
unity and hope – the Castle of Good Hope, the Minister added. She said she would like to see the castle, which the Department of Public Works has spent millions of rands refurbishing and renovating, be declared a heritage site. “This is a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to restore and promote our common national heritage. “Building on this investment, we have already begun a process to get the Castle of Good Hope listed as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.
caught between two competing worlds of the Dutch and the
“We all need to pledge our support to this and ensure that
Khoi, Krotoa helped champion a new indigenous common
we collectively garner the support of the international com-
language and is today credited with being among the chief
munity of nations to achieve this.”
architects of the Afrikaans language. “She was a very resilient, very strong woman, a woman we have not heard about, we have not learnt about. I’m sure if you were to check with children as to what it is they learn about our history, [they] were taught about Jan Van Riebeeck
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
One of the goals of the 350 year commemoration programme is to get everyone in the city, province and country to realise that the castle is also part of their heritage. “There are other programmes planned to conclude this commemoration from October through to December.
61
FEATURE
“Let us shape the future and let our people unearth the many
was prompted by the role she played in opposing the dis-
hidden histories and tapestries of our past, current and future,”
placement of the N!uu language by the apartheid govern-
added the Minister.
ment.
Celebrating another heroine
its agency, the South African Heritage Resource Agency, to
Another memorial was unveiled to celebrate the contribu-
erect a memorial in her honour.
tion of a Khoisan heroine from the Northern Cape in August. Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture Rejoice Mabudafhasi
The Department of Arts and Culture tasked and funded
Protecting languages
honoured Magrieta Jantjies at Rosedale Cemetery in Uping-
The work done by Jantjies has elevated the prominence of
ton. Jantjies was acknowledged for her role in promoting
the N!uu language.
the N!uu language.
N!uu is listed as one of the critically endangered languages
Ouma Griet, as she was affectionately known, was one of
of the world by UNESCO. This language was spoken mainly
the last people to speak N!uu fluently, which has been largely
in Upington and Olifantshoek, and possibly other surround-
overshadowed by Afrikaans and Nama.
ing areas.
Jantjies passed away on 31 December 2015 at the age of 70.
The N!uu language has 112 distinct sounds, which were
Her grave was identified as a grave of cultural significance
passed on orally through generations, but was never written
in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act no 25 of 1999
down. It has one of the biggest speech/sound inventories
(NHRA), section 36 (2), which states that: “the [South African
in the world, with more than 45 click sounds, 30 non-click
Heritage Resources Agency] must identify and record graves
consonants and 37 vowels.
of victims of conflict and any other graves which it deems
When the apartheid government took over in 1948,
to be of cultural significance and may erect memorials as-
those who spoke N!uu were compelled to speak Afrikaans.
sociated with the grave…”.
Gradually, N!uu began to recede and decline, with some of
The decision to make Jantjies’s grave culturally significant
the words becoming completely extinct.
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula with Krotoa’s family.
62
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Writer: *Jeff Radebe
OPINION
SA resilient in tough economic times
A
cross the world governments and nations are grap-
Government is aware that such interventions provide
pling with the question of how to grow their econo-
little hope to an unemployed person or a graduate strug-
mies and create jobs. In South Africa, we are the first
gling to find work. But we can say with confidence that
to accept that our economy is growing too slowly. These tough
we are working every day towards a future where every
times call on all of us to pull together and build our country. By
South African can strive to reach their dreams through
working as one we can undo the crippling legacy of poverty.
dedication and hard work.
South Africa finds itself in a tricky situation; the world
The fractures within our nation, however, run deep and
economy continues to struggle and the growth of our ma-
it will take time to address the many structural challenges
jor trading partners remains subdued. There are headwinds
we inherited from the past. There is no silver bullet to our
on many fronts and our short-term prospects are likely to
challenges; government therefore continues to address
remain muted.
our deficits systematically.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently revised our growth rate downwards and gave a frank assessment of our
Planning for a better future
challenges. These are sobering times. However, our nation
The framework for faster and more inclusive
is known for its resilience. We stood together in the face of
growth is in place and finds expression
apartheid repression and weathered impossible odds.
in the all-encompassing National De-
A spirit of resilience
velopment Plan (NDP), which is the blueprint for a better South Africa.
We remained resilient when we delivered massive infrastruc-
Many would argue that our immedi-
ture to host the first-ever 2010 Soccer World Cup hosted in
ate challenges cannot be resolved by
Africa. Together, we can ensure we are just as resilient this time around. Improving our economic conditions is our common challenge and government is convinced we can build a winning nation by standing together. Our medium- and long-term plans remain sound. We are steadily building sustainable partnerships with business and
Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Jeff Radebe.
labour. Earlier this year, President Jacob Zuma and Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa chaired a meeting of business and labour leaders to discuss measures to grow the economy and create job opportunities. We are undoing bottlenecks in the economy and building on our excellent macro-economic framework. Our fiscal policies are sound and are the building blocks to faster and more inclusive growth.
64
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
the NDP, which is a long-term plan, but the NDP is more
the need to get more role players into our economy.
than just a plan; it is the overarching vision for South Africa.
South Africa’s economy continues to be dominated by
It includes all key policy instruments aimed at growing the
several large players and this dominance is often at the
economy and creating jobs.
exclusion of small and medium-sized businesses. Govern-
These include the New Growth Path, which sets the trajec-
ment is not blind to this reality and has therefore estab-
tory of economic development; the National Infrastructure
lished the Department of Small Business Development as
Plan, which guides the roll-out of infrastructure to improve
a stand-alone department to unlock the potential of small,
people’s lives and enable economic growth; and the In-
medium and micro enterprises, cooperatives and township
dustrial Policy Action Plan, which focuses on promoting
and rural enterprises.
investment and competitiveness in leading sectors and
When effectively harnessed, small businesses, cooperatives and medium businesses have the power to unlock
industries. It lives in tandem with the Medium Term Strategic Frame-
economic opportunities across our society. A thriving small
work (MTSF), the nuts and bolts of the NDP. The MTSF is
business sector will lead to inclusive economic growth,
our strategic plan for the 2014-2019 electoral term and
higher levels of employment creation, reduced inequality
ensures policy coherence, alignment and coordination
and a deracialised economy.
across government plans as well as alignment with budgeting processes.
Supporting emerging businesses
All these plans dovetail with the President’s Nine-Point
It should never be forgotten that many of the large con-
Plan to ignite growth. Our government has set the country
glomerates now present in our economy began as small
on a path to radical economic transformation.
and medium-sized businesses. Through our support to
We are working to ensure this transformation is faster, more inclusive, accompanied by higher levels of employment creation, reduced inequality and the deracialisation of the economy.
emerging businesses, we hope to grow the economy and create new and sustainable jobs. To help sustain small businesses, government has set aside 30 percent of its procurement contracts for this sector. We are also committed to reducing the regulatory burden
Investments paying off
small enterprises face. Government is committed to ensur-
Our massive investments in infrastructure such as elec-
ing small businesses are paid within 30 days.
tricity, transport, water, roads, schools and hospitals are beginning to pay off.
These interventions are making steady inroads but to ensure a bigger slice of the pie, we must shake off the notion
The private sector and unions have a role to play too. It
that we are a nation of job-seekers and strive to build a
is important that we act to train young people, to create
nation of entrepreneurs. Too few people are taking the risk
more labour-intensive work and build sustainable indus-
of starting a business; most do not see it as a viable option.
tries for prosperity. The recent bumper revenue collection of over
This must change. It begins with encouraging young people to take a chance on their dream.
R1 trillion by SARS will allow government to
Government is convinced that our nation is poised to reap
service debts, ensure social services and
the benefits of our prudent economic and growth policies.
deliver infrastructure to further grow the
The sound fiscal framework we have in place and strong
economy. During its recent visit to our country,
partnerships with both business and labour will also go a long way in propelling our economy forward.
the IMF spoke of the need to grow the proverbial economic pie so that more people might benefit. It also spoke of
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
* Jeff Radebe, Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation.
65
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FEATURE
*Writer: Albi Modise
SA to lead from the front at
CITES CoP17 T
he eyes of the conservation world and wildlife sec-
and plants does not threaten their survival in the wild.
tors will be on Johannesburg this month when
Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa has described
delegates from 182 countries meet for the 17th
CITES CoP17 as a platform where countries are expected to
Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Inter-
discuss not only the threats faced by rhino, African elephant,
national Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
and African lion, iconic species on the African continent, but
Flora (CITES CoP17).
also matters relating to livelihoods, effective implementation
The international wildlife trade conference is being host-
of the convention, and proposals to bring species under
ed by South Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre from
international trade regulation provided by CITES or change
24 September to 5 October 2016 to, amongst others, make
the levels of regulation applicable to listed species.
recommendations to improve the effectiveness of CITES,
As one of the first members of the CITES Treaty, and the
and ensure that the in-
third most mega-biodiverse country in the world, South
ternational trade in
Africa has taken numerous leadership roles in the conser-
listed species of
vation of biodiversity at all levels by working with different
wild animals
partners at national, regional and global levels. CITES CoP17 affords South Africa the opportunity to showcase our rich biodiversity and successful conservation and sustainable use management practices, which have resulted in South Africa being one of the leading conservation countries today. In addition, South Africa will demonstrate its commitment to the sustainable utilisation of its natural resources in contributing to the socio-economic development of poor and rural communities as part of the development agenda of government. South Africa is working towards a paperless CITES CoP17. A total of 115 documents will be considered during the two-week conference. Among these are 60 proposals to amend the lists of species subject to CITES trade controls.
Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa.
68
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
nism for a process to trade in ivory. South Africa also submitted a draft decision relating to the monitoring of international trade in cycads, the most threatened taxonomic group of organisms with many species facing imminent extinction in the wild as a direct result of human activities. South Africa is one of the world centres of cycad diversity with 29 of the 38 cycad species that occur in South Africa being endemic to this country. South Africa is also a co-proponent, with the United States, of a document relating to youth and wildlife. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife and South Africa has tabled proposals to down-list the once criti-
acknowledging that the future of wildlife depends on engaging,
cally endangered Cape mountain zebra from Appendix I to
educating, and connecting the next generation of conserva-
Appendix II, the listing of wild ginger on Appendix II and the
tion leaders with animals and plants that they are increasingly
up-listing of pangolin to Appendix I.
unlikely to encounter on their own. South Africa has initiated
Of the over 35 000 species of plants and animals, including
a process to establish a Youth Conservation Programme as a
their products and derivatives, regulated by CITES, less than
legacy programme associated with the hosting of CITES CoP17.
1 000 are listed on Appendix I. Appendix I includes species
The primary aim of the programme is to ensure youth involve-
threatened with extinction and trade in specimens of these
ment in conservation initiatives, creating a platform for ex-
species is permitted only in exceptional circumstances. More
change and involvement, as well as formal integration of youth
than 34 000 species are listed on Appendix II and III. Appendix
into conservation programmes and the biodiversity economy.
II includes species not necessarily threatened by extinction,
African countries, through their participation in the confer-
but in which trade must be regulated to avoid utilisation in-
ence, have the potential to influence negotiations and ensure
compatible with their survival. Appendix III contains species
that priorities such as the illegal wildlife trade are addressed.
that are protected in at least one country, which has asked
South Africa has been participating in preparatory processes
other CITES parties for assistance in controlling the trade.
at a sub-regional level (Southern African Development Com-
Three working documents (draft resolutions) were tabled by
munity) and regional level (Africa) to facilitate the adoption of
South Africa for consideration by the CITES CoP17. These are:
common positions regarding some of the major issues to be
•
tabled at the conference.
A draft Resolution on Illegal Wildlife Trade that highlights the need for international cooperation; the sharing of best prac-
South Africa’s position for the CITES CoP17 will be informed
tices; the need to enhance enforcement resources; and the
by these preparatory processes as well as its national process
mobilisation of funds for sustainable interventions to combat
and will be based on key principles that include alignment with
illegal wildlife trade in CITES listed species, while emphasising
section 24 of the Constitution.
the important role played by local communities. •
At the Ministerial meeting scheduled to take place prior to
A draft resolution on trade in hunting trophies of Appendix II
the opening ceremony of the CITES CoP17, the role of CITES
listed species that emphasise the important socio-economic
in advancing Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development
impact of hunting, in addition to the contribution it makes to
Goals will be discussed in more detail.
conservation. •
A proposed amendment to the Resolution on Trade in el-
*Albi Modise, Chief Director Communications at the
ephant specimens to provide for a decision-making mecha-
Department of Environmental Affairs.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
69
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*Writer: Vusi Mona
OPINION
Addressing perceptions about e-tolls
T
o change an established public view is extremely
The survey found that fewer respondents (14 percent)
difficult, even when there is overwhelming evi-
who travel on the Gauteng freeway network have changed
dence that the whole perception is wrong.
their routes because of e-tolls than had anticipated to do
It is obvious to anybody who does not have an agenda
so in 2013 (19 percent) before the gantries were turned on.
or just follows the herd that the improvements to the in-
The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SAN-
ner Gauteng highways are massively beneficial to road
RAL) does not claim that the majority of people are en-
users. Some of these benefits include improved safety and
thusiastic about e-tolling. However, the survey does show
comfort on the roads, the knowledge that there is constant
that it is not an overriding and pervasive issue among the
surveillance and assistance in case of any problems, less
majority of Gautengers, especially in lower-middle class
time and money spent getting from point to point and
and poorer communities.
less time of the roads translating into more family time. The network upgrades have also led to property developments, which have been a catalyst for economic growth, job creation and integrating people situated in the outskirts into urban spaces. Yet there is a created perception that road users over-
The overall figures show that 80 percent of Gautengers surveyed travel to work either by taxi (33 percent) or in private vehicles as drivers or passengers (47 percent). This demonstrates the need for sufficient, high-quality road infrastructure to enable commuters to travel in safety and to reduce the overall cost of transport.
whelmingly do not want to pay the e-tolls, which go to
The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project delivered
the funding of these benefits. This was largely debunked
these benefits to the province and this is part of the grow-
in a comprehensive survey published recently.
ing indications that citizens are accepting the user-pay
It supports our view that resistance against e-tolling is
principle.
driven by special interest groups supported by political
The survey results also support the decision taken by
activists. The fact is that there is an underlying acceptance
government to exempt registered taxis and public trans-
among commuters that the users of road infrastructure
port from paying e-tolls as well as the reduction in tariffs
should pay for its construction and upgrading.
announced 18 months ago. These were proactive steps
The Quality of Life Survey conducted by the Gauteng City Region Observatory (GCRO) canvassed the opinions of
to reduce the impact of e-tolling on lower-income commuters.
30 000 respondents across the province. The survey takes
The GCRO findings are also in line with an earlier study
place every two years and, for the second time, included a
conducted by economist, Dr Roelof Botha, which indicated
question about perceptions towards e-tolling.
that 94 percent of passenger vehicle toll fees on the free-
The question put to respondents was whether they agree
ways will be paid by high-income earners who can afford
with the statement: “I will never pay for e-tolls.” A key find-
it. This makes e-tolling a system that is more equitable than
ing was that road users who are satisfied with the quality
alternatives such as higher fuel levies which would affect
of the roads are more likely to pay. According to the study,
all commuters across the board.
“34 percent of those who are satisfied with roads agree with the statement … and 42 percent disagree, indicating
*Vusi Mona, General Communications Manager at
a willingness to pay.”
SANRAL.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
71
C O F F E E TA B L E B O O K S NEWSLETTERS
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C U S TO M E R M AG A Z I N E S
WEBSITES
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BROCHURES
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ANNUAL REPORTS
DIRECT MAILERS
C o n t a c t : Va n F l e t c h e r 14 Roodehek Street, Gardens, C a p e To w n
Cell: 082 3311158 Te l : 0 8 6 0 0 0 9 5 9 0 E m a i l : v a n . f l e t c h e r @ t o p c o. c o. z a
Public sector appointments
Compiled By: Sekgabo Kedijang
Simphiwe Mbonambi
Executive Manager for the Corporate Services Unit, Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) recently appointed Simphiwe Mbonambi as the Executive Manager for the Corporate Services Unit. She has 10 years’ leadership experience, including in-depth knowledge at executive level where she has managed an inventory budget in excess of R10 billion. Mbonambi began her career working for Eskom Holdings and swiftly rose to leadership at the age of 24 when she began managing a team. As a result of her leadership capabilities she won the coveted Eskom Leader of the Year award in 2012 and received two promotions in 10 months. She holds a BCom Honours degree in Supply Chain Management and Business Finance from the University of KwaZulu-Natal as well as a BCom Honours degree in Logistics from the University of South Africa. Prior to joining the RBIDZ, Mbonambi was employed as the Supply Chain Manager at Gibela Rail Transport Consortium. In her new role she will be responsible for, among others, corporate governance, information management, legal and regulatory compliance, integrated risk management, human resources and internal employee communication.
Fezeka Puzi
Chief Financial Officer, Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) The Unemployment Insurance Fund has appointed Fezeka Puzi as its new Chief Financial Officer. Puzi has vast experience in the accounting field, having worked at the Compensation Fund, and the Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration. She also previously served as Chief Financial Officer at the National Skills Fund. Her academic qualifications include a BCom Accounting Degree, Honours Degree in Business Administration and a Post Graduate Certificate in Executive Leadership. Puzi will be responsible for the development, implementation and successful execution and monitoring of the annual strategic and business plan of the fund. She will also manage the financial unit of the UIF to ensure the smooth operation of the organisation. Puzi will also be responsible for drafting an Investment Strategy and Mandate for consideration by the Investment Committee and Board and to ensure that overall sound financial management is adhered to within the UIF.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
73
PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGE R
MARCH 2016
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SA’s economy takes centre stage
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FINANCIAL FITNESS
Better protection for consumers
T
he National Credit Regulator (NCR) and the Department of Trade and Industry have been hard at work amending the National Credit Act (NCA) to better protect consumers. PSM looks at how these amendments will affect you. Earlier this year, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies, determined a new threshold of nil (0) for the purpose of determining whether or not a credit provider is required to be registered with the NCR in terms of the NCA. The implication of this new threshold is that from 11 November 2016, any person or entity that is in-
volved in the provision of credit will now be required to register irrespective of the number of agreements they entered into and/or the value of the principal debt. “Consumers are advised to only obtain credit from duly registered entities, as doing so will advance their rights as provided for in the NCA,” said the CEO of the NCR Nomsa Motshegare. Persons or entities registered with the NCR must display a NCR certificate and a window decal on the business premises. “If consumers are in doubt about the registration status of any entity, they can contact the NCR for verification,” she added. Motshegare said that those registered are also required in terms of the NCA to renew their registration annually. The new regulation makes provision for the NCR to charge penalty fees for any late renewal of registration. “While the NCR sends the notices of annual re-
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
newal of registration, it remains the responsibility of each registrant to monitor due dates of renewal and comply with this provision timeously,” she explained. In addition, the NCA, as amended, introduced affordability assessment regulations with the aim of assisting credit providers to effectively assess the consumer’s ability to repay credit and thereby avoid extending reckless loans. In terms of the NCA, the NCR has a responsibility to review fees and interest rates charged by credit providers. The review of the limitation on fees and interest rates regulations published on 6 November 2015 in the Government Gazette came into effect on 6 May 2016. The maximum interest rate caps for unsecured and short-term loans have been lowered. The reduction of the interest is part of government’s efforts to promote affordable access to credit and prevent reckless lending. However, fees such as initiation fees and service fees have been increased. Consumers are advised to check their contracts in order to ensure that they have been charged in accordance with the new regulation. Motshegare says the new fees and interest rates will only apply to credit agreements that are entered into on or after 6 May 2016. For more information on the new fees and interest rates, go to www.ncr.org.za *Lebogang Selebi, Media Relations Officer at the NCR.
75
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FOOD AND WINE
Writer: Gilda Narsimdas
Recipes for
culinary success Chef Blake Anderson.
C
hef Blake Anderson is one of the country’s most renowned chefs with 13 years’ experience and numer-
ous culinary awards under his belt. Last year Blake was
appointed Complex Executive Chef at Montecasino, Johannesburg, which means he now oversees the daily operations of the Tsogo Sun flagship property’s five restaurants. Together with his team, Chef Blake offers up some of his favourite recipes for you to try at home.
Lamb shank (Chef Ross Birkin)
Ingredients
• 200g lamb shank • 500ml chicken stock • 400g whole peeled tomatoes in a tin • 100ml red wine • 2 sprigs rosemary • 2 sprigs thyme • 2 bay leaves • 200ml orange juice • 80g baby potatoes • 30g black olives, pitted • 2 shortbread biscuits • 1 tsp finely chopped mint • 3 baby carrots, washed and cleaned • 3 baby parsnips, washed and cleaned
on all sides. Season with salt and pepper. Remove
• 50g salted butter
from heat and set aside in a medium sized roasting
• 1 tsp Italian parsley, finely chopped.
Method:
78
pan. • Place in the pan with the lamb shanks, chicken stock, red wine, orange juice, thyme rosemary and
• Preheat the oven to 180C.
bay leaves. Cover with foil and place into the oven
• In a large sized sauté pan, pan fry lamb shanks till brown
for one hour.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
• After one hour, drop the temperature to 130c and cook for a further five hours until tender. • Crush shortbread and combine with finely chopped mint. Set aside to garnish. • In a large sauce pan, fill water and bring to the boil. Add carrots, parsnips and baby potatoes. Cook till
Method
tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Remove Oreo biscuits from packet, crush biscuits into
• Remove half of the liquid from the shanks and place
crumbs and set aside.
into a sauce pan and reduce till thick in consistency.
• Lightly whip half the cream until soft peaks are formed.
• In a medium sauté pan, add butter and pan fry po-
• Combine cream cheese and mascarpone cheese. Add
tatoes, carrots and parsnips. Season with salt and pepper to taste. • To assemble: place baby potatoes, carrots and
lightly whipped cream to the cheese mixture. • De-seed vanilla pod, scrape seeds into cheese mixture and lightly fold in vanilla. Set aside.
parsnips in the bowl, place lamb shank in centre
• Place Oreo biscuits in four moulds and lightly compact
and cover with sauce. Sprinkle with olives and mint
biscuits with the back of a spoon to create a base.
shortbread.
Fill each mould with cheese mixture and place in the freezer to set. Remove and place in the fridge until
Cookies and cream (Chef Blake Anderson)
Ingredients
ready to be consumed. • In a medium-sized pot, add butter and sugar, melt sugar and cook till golden in colour, slowly add cream
• 1 Oreo macaroon
and stir till all combined. Remove from heat and add
• 300g cream cheese
salt. Set aside to cool.
• 250g mascarpone cheese
• To assemble plate, place salted caramel on base, serve
• ¼ vanilla pod
with Oreo macaroon, Oreo cheesecake and a scoop of
• 300ml double cream
dark chocolate ice cream.
• 1 x 4 biscuit Oreo packet • 75g unsalted butter
Tutti Frutti (Pieter Brits)
• 50g brown sugar
Ingredients
• 50g castor sugar
• 25ml agave tequila
• 50g golden syrup
• 12.5ml passion fruit puree
• 1 tsp Maldon salt
• 25ml passion fruit syrup
• 80g dark chocolate ice cream.
• 25ml Bacardi white rum • 25ml raspberry puree • 50ml soda water • Garnish – strawberry slice, lime, cherry and fresh mint sprig.
Method • Premix tequila, Bacardi, passion fruit puree and syrup. • Top up jar with crushed ice. • Add soda water and raspberry puree. • Garnish top with lime, cherry and mint sprig. • Garnish with strawberry slice on side.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
79
Delivering travel solutions, bringing value to the public sector Current challenges facing the public sector
says Silas Phoshoko, National Business Development Manager at American Express® Card.
Current conditions under which the public sector operates are characterised by the country’s low economic growth, falling revenues and a rising budget deficit.
The American Express Business Travel Account solution
‘These challenges should also be seen as opportunities for public sector enterprises, together with their card provider, to drive change and accountability for all aspects of business travel expenses management, find savings in long-term value, simplify processes and reduce operating costs,’
The Business Travel Account (BTA) is a virtual card that is ‘lodged’ with the government department’s dedicated travel management company (TMC) or inhouse online booking tool (self-booking tool/SBT), and serviced by American Express.
Why the BTA lodged card solution works It provides monthly/weekly views of transactions .
It limits spend to departmental budget . Spend is restricted to travel-related transactions . Preferred TMCs/SBTs are used .
All suppliers are paid within 30 days . It helps drive the small to medium enterprise development agenda .
Control and security
Reconciliation
Improved Consolidated supplier view of all management spend
Matching of invoices to statement is facilitated by TMC . It helps identify irregular spend .
It provides a view of all spend by category. It provides a consolidated view of any late payment . Fruitless and wasteful expenditure can be tracked .
Vendor negotiations are improved .
It enables management of travel policy.
Unique business model Reduce cost to serve
Improve compliance with Public Finance Management Act controls
Create insight, develop best practice
American Express® Business Travel Account
Challenge
BTA
Comment
Budget deficit
3
Can assist in monitoring actual spend to budget .
Lack of institutional rates
3
Can help identify key categories for negotiation.
Reconciliation
3
Card can streamline reconciliation of all travel expenses .
Unauthorised expenditure
3
Card can help government departments to have transparency of their spend .
Irregular expenditure
3
Card can help ensure that only travel-related expenses occur .
Not paying in 30 days
3
All suppliers are paid within 30 days .
Through its strategic partnership with various public sector companies and government departments, American Express has helped them to keep track of their travel expenses. Not only does the American Express BTA keep track of expenses, highlighting wasteful and fraudulent spend,
but it will also save costs by streamlining the reconciliation process. The enhanced management information enables the company or department to negotiate discounted rates from suppliers. At American Express we aim to deliver solutions and add value to the public sector.
About the team The team’s main responsibility is driving business development across different spheres of government and state-owned enterprises. The team helps government departments manage their travel-related expenses efficiently, while identifying and understanding challenges within the public sector and finding solutions that fit the need.
Silas Phoshoko has over 12 years’ experience in the financial services industry. His card career includes significant experience in card issuing and he has specific expertise in leveraging the benefits of card programmes, government payment solutions and payment solutions for travel, entertainment and procurement in corporate markets.
• 2386
For more information please contact Silas Phoshoko on +27(0) 11 294 9629 or at Silasp@nedbank.co.za.
American Express® is a registered trademark of American Express. American Express Cards is operated under licence in South Africa by Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06, authorised financial services and registered credit provider (NCRCP16).
Writer: Nicholas Francis
grooming and style
All about the prints O
1
ur country is known for its vibrant people and diverse cultures. This is depicted in our beautiful arts and fashion. Many local designers have taken the
fashion world by storm with traditional prints and designs. In the spirit of Heritage Month, we highlight some culturally infused designs that you can wear any day of the week.
2 3
1. Eclectic Chique Heritage sun hat, R 1 150.
2. Thabo Makhetha long cape, R2 000.
3. Maxhosa by Laduma colour diamond mini skirt, R1 450.
4. Brother Vellies leopard congo sandal, R3 845.
5. Khokho Zodwa black clutch, R4 800.
4
82
5
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
5
5. Fundudzi wax print tux shirt, R1 600.
6. Ohema Ohene Azzeme shorts,
6
R2 920.
7. Maxhosa by Laduma colour crop jersey, R2 150.
7
All garments are available from: www.merchantsonlong.com Public Sector Manager • September 2016
83
ARE YOU ABOUT TO GO ON RETIREMENT? Members who are about to go on retirement must notify their employers at least six months in advance to allow enough time for their documents to be processed by both the employer and the GEPF.
Which forms must be completed by Members when they retire? • Z894 (Bank Form) - To be completed by the bank . • Barcoded ID copy - Must be certified (certification stamp must not be older than 6 months) . • Retirement Choice Form - Applicable if the member has more than 10 years pensionable service and only if the member is married. • Z864 - Updating of personal particulars, only applicable if the member has more than 10 years pensionable service.
subsidy (Applicable for members with 15 years pensionable service and have contributed for at least a 1 year and medical membership certificate) . • Medical Choice Form - Applicable if a member has more than 10 years of service and 1year medical membership certificate. • WP 1002: nomination form . • If retiring before 60 years, an approval letter from the employer is needed .
• Certified Copies of the marriage certificate, birth certificate and ID copies of children: • Z583: Medical subsidy form - only applicable if a member wants a continuation of medical
Call Centre - 0800 117 669
@GEPF_SA
Forms that that must must be be completed completed by by the the member’s member’s Forms HR department: department: HR • Z102: Z102: Withdrawal Withdrawal form form or or exit exit request request • • The The following following must must be be verified verified and and coco• signed by by your your HR HR department. department. signed
ARE YOU YOU AWARE AWARE OF OF YOUR YOUR ARE PENSIONABLE SERVICE SERVICE DATE? DATE? PENSIONABLE Thereis isaadifference differencebetween betweenthe thedate datean anemployee employee There started working working in in government government (appointment (appointment date) date) started and the the date date an an employee employee was was admitted admitted into into the the and GEPF as as aa contributing contributing member member (service (service date). date). GEPF
Ø Z583 Ø Z583 Mostmembers membersmix mixup upthese thesedates datesand andthis thishappens happens Most mostly to to employees employees who who started started as as contract contract mostly workers and and were were not not eligible eligible to to contribute contribute to to the the workers pension fund. fund. ItIt is is only only when when they they get get employed employed pension permanently that that they they get get admitted admitted to to GEPF GEPF and and permanently qualify to to contribute contribute to to the the pension pension fund. fund. qualify
Ø Medical Choice Choice form form Ø Medical Ø Retirement choice choice form form . Ø Retirement
Additional information information required: required: Additional • Last Last salary salary pay pay slip slip • • Proof Proof of of service service termination termination (Persal (Persal print print • out, the the employer employer has has this this on on record) record) out, • Proof Proof of of admission admission date: date: this this can can be be found found • on aa member’s member’s pay pay slip slip on The employer employer has has to to submit submit the the application application forms forms The to GEPF GEPF at at least least three three months months prior prior to to member‘s member‘s to exit date. date. exit
Pensionable service service starts starts from from the the day day the the Pensionable employee starts starts paying paying his his or or her her monthly monthly pension pension employee contributions to to the the Fund Fund and and continues continues until until the the contributions day he he or or she she stops stops working. working. This This is is the the period period in in day which he he or or she she is is an an active, active, contributing contributing member member which of GEPF. GEPF. of
‘
Departmental debt debt Departmental Members are are advised advised to to sort sort out out outstanding outstanding debt debt Members with the the employers employers to to avoid avoid deductions deductions from from their their with pension fund. fund. pension
What about about Tax? Tax? What Tax issues issues should should also also be be sorted sorted with with SARS SARS Tax beforehand. beforehand. GEPF would would also also like like to to warn warn members members who who GEPF are about about to to retire retire to to be be careful careful of of unscrupulous unscrupulous are service providers providers encouraging encouraging them them to to resign resign from from service the Fund. Fund. ItIt is is always always better better to to retire retire with with GEPF GEPF the than to to resign. resign. than
www.gepf.co.za
Members are are advised advised to to always always keep keep track track of of their their Members GEPF service service date date by by keeping keeping their their first first pay pay slip slip GEPF which shows shows contributions contributions to to GEPF, GEPF, as as this this has has which the service service date date printed printed on on it. it. the Members must must also also check check the the membership membership Members certificate they they receive receive and and query query anything anything that that certificate does not not agree agree with with the the information information on on the the payslip payslip does is which indicates indicates their their first first GEPF GEPF contribution. contribution. ItIt is which in your your interests interests to to check check that that your your information information in is shown shown correctly correctly and and to to follow follow up up with with your your is personnel department department ifif there there are are any any errors. errors. personnel
CAR REVIEWS
Writer: Ashref Ismail
Ford Everest ticks all the right boxes
S
ometimes divorce can be a good thing. This holds par-
to point out that the new Everest is actually competing
ticularly true for the troubled marriage between Ford
against the likes of the more expensive Toyota Prado. Seen
and Mazda with both brands having suffered tremen-
against this background, the higher pricing and limited
dously because of the lack of focus and the definite lack of drive on the sales floors of both marques.
The all-new Ford Everest redefines the sport utility ve-
After filing for divorce, both brands have clearly started
hicle market with bold design, advanced technology, ex-
showing a revived sense of spirit and enthusiasm with amaz-
ceptional off-road and on-road capability, and a refined,
ing, world-class and award-winning models from both, Ford
premium interior for up to seven passengers.
and Mazda.
With a rugged, sculptural design that reflects its un-
The Ford Ranger and its SUV cousin, the Everest, are two
shakeable toughness and technological prowess, the
cases in point, with the Ranger putting up a formidable fight
new Everest blends strength, smart features and style
against its arch rival, the newly launched Hilux.
to bring consumers a tough and versatile SUV with true
While it would be assumed that the new Toyota Fortuner would be the natural rival to the Ford Everest, Ford is at pains
86
model availability begins to make sense.
off-road capability. The all-new Ford Everest was designed from the ground
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
up with the durability to take on the most inhospitable en-
for increased control.
vironments. One of the toughest SUVs in its segment, the
These impressive off-road credentials are paired to a new level
Everest has a body-on-frame design, assuring the torsional
of ride quality and dynamic handling beyond what consumers
strength required for challenging terrains.
have come to expect in a rugged SUV. Thanks to its coil spring
Together with an intelligent four-wheel drive system, an
front and rear suspension and a Watt’s linkage on the rear axle,
active transfer case with Torque on Demand, ground clear-
the all-new Ford Everest provides a comfortable, stable ride
ance of 225mm and water-wading capability of 800mm, the
with agile and predictable handling on the road, maintaining
Everest helps drivers navigate difficult terrain with ease.
Ford’s fun to drive DNA.
For ultimate capability, the advanced new Terrain Manage-
The exceptional capabilities of the Everest are made possible
ment System gives drivers four settings – Normal, Snow/
by the latest-generation 3.2 litre five-cylinder Duratorq TDCi
Gravel/Grass, Sand and Rock – that alter the vehicle’s throt-
turbo-diesel engine which incorporates an advanced exhaust
tle response, transmission, intelligent four-wheel drive sys-
gas recirculation system to boost efficiency.
tem and traction control to confidently tackle any situation.
It produces 147kW of power matched to an impressive 470Nm
For extreme off-road environments,
of torque, which makes the Everest ideal for everyday driving,
drivers can manually lock the
as well as use in heavy-duty applications such as off-roading
transfer case in low-range four-wheel drive mode
or towing. The 3.2 litre engine is matched to a durable and efficient sixspeed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts and outstanding responsiveness – with the added benefit of a Sport mode as well as a Manual mode for improved control. The Everest’s bold exterior presence is paired with a modern, spacious interior that creates a comfortable, harmonious environment for up to seven adult occupants. The Everest is available in two feature-packed model derivatives, starting off with the XLT-spec 3.2 Auto 4x4 and the Limited. Further additions are expected before the end of the year.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
87
Exciting course: Leading Innovation in the Public Service Do you want to innovate in the public sector? Do you want to demystify innovation? Then you must attend the enthralling “Leading Innovation in the Public Service” course offered by the School of Government in partnership with the Centre for Public Service innovation. Innovation management within the public sector is one of the pillars of the knowledge economy. In practice, one will however find that very few managers know about innovation management and therefore cannot easily define it as different to other general concepts such as improvement, creativity or entrepreneurship.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS COURSE IS TO EMPOWER PUBLIC OFFICIALS TO: ◊ Approach challenges in new and creative ways ◊ Apply innovation theory, models, principles and practices to work-related challenges in a specific context ◊ Analyse their own work environments in terms of the features of innovation and identify gaps that should be bridged in order to embed innovation as a culture and practice ◊ Lead a team through a process of creative thinking and problem solving that is not traditional or expected so that it can yield new possibilities and solutions for improved service delivery standards .
For more information, please contact The NSG: Tel: (+27) 086 100 8326
The CPSI: Tel: 012 683 2800
CRAIG JANSEN: craig.jansen@thensg.gov.za
LYDIA PHALWANE: lydia.phalwane@cpsi.co.za
Visit our websites: www.thensg.gov.za www.cpsi.co.za
school of government Department: National School of Government REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA VOL. 6 ISSUE 2 2016
63
/07/03
BOOK REVIEWS
Supplied by: Knowledge Resources
2:47 PM
Ubuntu: Shaping the current workplace with (African) wisdom by Vuyisile Msila Ubuntu is an old Afri-
progeny and production – elements that enable organisa-
can concept, a way of
tions to thrive. An ubuntu-inspired workplace focuses on:
life that was like a reli-
•
Dependability
gion in many African
•
Team work
societies long before
•
Interconnectedness
the days of colonisa-
•
Caring
tion. Ubuntu means
•
Being led by a collective vision
to sacrifice for others
•
Performance
selflessly, caring for
•
Loyalty
and protecting your
•
Openness
fellow human beings.
•
Honesty
Applying ubuntu in
•
Transformational leadership.
the workplace is not always understood.
About the author:
Ubuntu: Shaping the current workplace with (African) wisdom
Prof Vuyisile Msila is the Head for the Institute for African
looks at how we can use the old values and wisdom of our
Renaissance Studies at University of South Africa. His re-
forebears to create more humane and productive workplaces.
search focuses on general leadership and management as
In Ubuntu: Shaping the current workplace with (African) wis-
well as professional development of principals. He has also
dom, Professor Vuyisile Msila presents the five Ps of Ubuntu
conducted research in African leadership models and has a
namely: People-centeredness, permeable walls, partisanship,
keen interest in the Africanisation of the curriculum.
Employee Engagement in a South African Context by Hester Nienaber and Nico Martins Employee engagement is at the forefront of business agendas
About the authors:
as it facilitates organisational performance. Engaged employ-
Prof Hester Nien-
ees result in delighted customers, which in turn contributes
aber is based at the
to improved financial results.
Department of Busi-
•
The book addresses the following issues:
ness Management
•
What is employee engagement?
at the University of
•
Why is employee engagement important?
South Africa (Unisa).
•
Measuring employee engagement; the different instru-
Her research focus
ments available; the different national and international
area is competitive
approaches in measuring employee engagement.
advantage, and spe-
High-level overview of the Nienaber and Martins em-
cifically, the role of
ployee engagement framework and measurement in-
human resources in
strument.
creating and sustain-
The current state of employee engagement in South
ing a competitive ad-
Africa.
vantage.
•
• •
Engagement and related human resource concepts/ constructs.
Prof Nico Martins is with the Department
The book explores a scientific approach to context specific
of Industrial Psychology at the Unisa and specialises in the
measurement. It focuses on both the theoretical aspects of
field of organisational psychology. His fields of expertise are
employee engagement as well as the latest South African re-
organisational development and change.
search. Public Sector Manager • September 2016
89
Nice to haves
Brighten up your life W
ith the change of season, bright and bold
1.
pops of colour are all the rage. Here are a few
Writer: Gilda Narsimdas
1
Treat yourself to some lip therapy this Spring with a yummy wrinkle reverse lip treatment, Hey Gorgeous, R185.
essentials to get you into the Spring spirit.
2.
Protect your hair and get that refreshed feeling without the fuss with this new range of dry shampoos. Batiste Dry Shampoo, Clicks, R42.95 (50ml) and R63.95 (200ml).
3.
Keep your skin refreshed and hydrated with an invigorating facial, that’s good enough to eat. Honey papaya pomegranate facial scrub, Hey Gorgeous, R140.
2
3
4
7
6
4.
5
This range of wooden beads are the perfect way to accessorise, Mrs Rogero, from R40.
5.
Put a spring in your step with these African printed clutch purses. They add the perfect edge to any outfit, One of Each, R700.
6.
These beautiful cushions add vibrance with colour and prints. Get these Kemi Cushions from Woolworths, R349.
7.
Keep your drinks and treats cool all day long, in this nifty, fun, coloured wine cooler bag. It is perfect for a picnic at the beach or that long roadtrip, Lou Harvey, from R215.
90
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Untitled-1.pdf 2016/08/26 09:19:38 AM
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CMY
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Supplied by: Government Employees Medical Scheme
Get your teeth into health
B
een to the dentist lately? No? Well, maybe you should
to look - in your mouth.
do a quick rethink of the importance of dental health.
So there is a strong incentive to brush and floss regularly,
There’s no better time to do so than now, as Septem-
right there. Does that mean you have to bite the bullet and
ber is National Oral Health Month.
visit your dentist? Yes, indeed. These bacteria are released
Research conducted over several years clearly indicates
into the bloodstream, where they do damage, through ex-
that the health and cleanliness of your teeth could play a
posed tooth necks or the soft gums that are symptomatic
critical role in the health of your whole body. Some landmark
of periodontal disease.
studies have shown a clear connection between poor dental health and heart attacks, strokes and miscarriages
Once they are in the bloodstream, the bacteria can cause havoc in the body. Not only do they trigger the formation of blood clots, but they can
in pregnant women.
also cause spontaneous miscarriage, it
Some years ago, Prof Mark Herzberg of the Preventive Medicine Unit at the
seems. Pregnant women who neglect
University of Minnesota, showed in
their dental care are prone to have
a series of experiments, that certain
more miscarriages and pregnant
bacteria present in dental plaque
women have a natural tendency to
cause blood platelets to clot. If these
develop the softening of the gums
bacteria are released into the blood-
that opens the gates to the bloodstream for these bacteria.
stream, they could easily trigger a
There are other worrying connections
thrombosis, the clotting which creates
that are being made by scientists. Evidently
the perfect conditions for a heart attack or
smokers with dental plaque run a much higher
stroke. The worst offender, according to Prof Herzberg, is the bacterium streptococcus sanguis that is found in enormous numbers in
risk of getting lung disease than smokers who have clean, cared-for teeth and the lung disease is likely to be chronic, or long-lasting.
the mouth; it’s the most com-
Another factor that could affect your general health, is if
mon of all the microorganisms
you have what is called a poor “bite” (badly aligned teeth) or
found there. And when peo-
a nervous tendency to grit or grind your teeth. People with
ple have a lot of plaque on
these problems can end up with chronic neck and shoulder
their teeth, the numbers are
pain, or bad headaches, and never make the connection
much bigger. “We know a
to their teeth. So if you have similar problems, it might be
lot about the risk factors for
worth a trip to the dentist to find out if they can be solved.
arterial sclerosis and heart
For some people, however, even the threat of a deadly dis-
attacks but nothing about
ease is not enough incentive to head for the dentist’s chair.
the triggers,” says Prof Her-
Perhaps you had a bad experience as a child or just don’t like
zberg. It seems they may
the idea of that dental drill. Bear in mind that most dental
have found one trigger
procedures are now so sophisticated that there should be no
in a place where no
need to suffer anything more than a little discomfort when
one would think
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
you go to the dentist.
93
TRAVEL
Writer: Duane Stacey
Exploring
inland gems G auteng and its surrounding areas are often over-
Carlton Centre
looked for its coastal counterparts who, with their
What better place to start than an eagle-eye view of the city
pristine beaches and easy-going way of life, usu-
from the top of Carlton Centre, which claims the bragging
ally top tourists’ lists. But if you take
rights as Africa’s tallest building. For just R15 you can experi-
the time to explore it, you will
ence both the thrill factor of riding an elevator 50 floors up
realise that the province
in just 50 seconds and some of Johannesburg’s most impres-
and Johannesburg, in
sive views. Telescopes line the circular walk and give one the
particular, has much
chance to zoom into some of Johannesburg’s more famous
to offer. When you
landmarks. It was from this very point that I focused on the
engage with the
Nelson Mandela Bridge, which links Newtown to Braamfon-
people that call this
tein.
province home you realise the hidden vibrancy and streaks
A R200 million development project in 2002 was one of
of colour which should
Johannesburg’s first real attempts at urban regeneration
paint the city’s profile.
94
The appeal of Braamfontein
and Braamfontein is now a dynamic part of the city centre.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
Hipsters and trendsetters flock to the coffee shops, restau-
There is always more than one way to explore a city and
rants and art galleries which seep colour onto streets which
Johannesburg is no different. Alexandra township plays
have long been seeking these festivities. The Neighbour-
host to various intriguing sites such as the earlier homes
hood Goods Market, a melting pot of culture and cuisine,
of former President Nelson Mandela and musician Hugh
has set the tone for the entire district.
Masekela. It also offers some incredible cultural cuisine
It is the Maboneng Precinct that is intriguing in the discov-
options like shisanyama and mogodu (tripe) served up in
ery of the Johannesburg ‘renaissance.’ In a similar fashion to
the most remote locations. Jeffrey Mulaudzi was born and
Braamfontein, Maboneng has evolved into a collaborative
raised in Alexandra and in 2010 he started Alexandra bicycle
hub of culture, business and style with so much on offer.
tours. He now shows people around the township he calls
The Living Room, set in a rooftop garden, offers great views
home and gives an insider’s perspective on life and experi-
over the city. Their Sunday parties have become the talk of
ences. Perhaps the greatest highlight of the experience is
the town with a variety of entertainment on hand.
the comradery and sense of community experienced as you
During the week, this health-food restaurant offers a break from the hustle and bustle of life in the financial capital. So whether you are enjoying a sundowner after work or just a bite to eat in the exquisitely designed forest-like setting, this is the perfect place to watch the sun settle between the corporate skyscrapers lining the horizon. For those with a slightly sweeter tooth, be on the lookout for an old truck stationed on the side of the Maboneng streets. Cocobel’s truck is filled with delicious treats presented elegantly and the perfect way to finish off a meal before heading towards an intriguing night at the cinema.
The Bioscope The Bioscope is Johannesburg’s only independent cinema. It comfortably seats 62 guests and the cosy ambience provides exposure for great documentaries, cult classics and the best of local cinema. There is something rather enigmatic about the experience. You can catch a film here on any night of the week, and on occasion, may experience the privilege of attending one of the outdoor screenings, which are hosted at different venues across the city. You will need to check their website for any upcoming events before snuggling up under the blankets on a luxury beanbag, under the city lights to enjoy these shows.
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
95
TRAVEL the puffs of hot air keeping the balloon afloat, is complemented by the scenic views below of the game and nature reserves. Take-off is restricted to the early mornings and a sunrise captured from a floating basket up high is certainly one of the better ways to get the day started.
Places of interest: Carlton Centre: For just R15 you can experience views from the Top of Africa. It is located in Johannesburg’s downtown central business district at 150 Commissioner Street. The Maboneng Precinct: Be sure to check their website, for up-to-date events in this hip and happening part of the city. www.mabonengprecinct.com The Bioscope: Whether you want a romantic night out or an educational movie, be sure to check out www.thebioscope.co.za to see what is showing. The Living Room: Sunday is without a doubt the day to visit this exotic forest, so keep a lookout for what’s happening at www.livingroomjozi.co.za Alexandra Bike Tours: There really is no better place or way to experience the daily life within one of Johanmake your way through the streets of Alexandra and engage in
nesburg’s more famous townships. To book a tour go
the rich culture of a place Mulaudzi is only too eager to showcase.
to www.alexandratours.co.za
Hartbeespoort adventures
Air to Air Africa: Soar high into the skies to experience incredible views over the Magaliesberg and Hart-
As we venture towards the outskirts of Johannesburg, lying in the
beespoort Dam. Book your flight and buffet breakfast
shadows of the Magaliesberg is the small resort town of Hartbee-
with www.airtoairafrica.co.za
spoort, a place which draws adventure enthusiasts interested in paragliding, hang-gliding and various adventure water sports. In 2010, the old cableway system which had fallen into disrepair was re-established using the latest technology and resources to produce what is now known as Harties Cableway. As you float towards the top in your green bubble pod, which comes to rest on the wooden deck, be sure to take in the picturesque views on offer before completing the “Dassies Loop” and learning more about the area through the point of interest boards scattered on the loop. This offers the perfect opportunity to appreciate a picnic basket on the grass overlooking the exquisite landscape. It is definitely a trip the whole family will enjoy, offering educational value and relaxation in one afternoon. If you are feeling brave enough to take to the skies, this area provides the perfect backdrop for an early morning hot air balloon ride. Air to Air Africa offers balloon trips from the banks of the Crocodile River. The serenity of the silence, only broken by
96
Public Sector Manager • September 2016
ADVERTORIAL
Absa opens doors for SMEs Absa opens doors for SMEs
Absa is investing in individuals, communities and enterprises and through its enterprise development programmes is changing the South African business landscape one entrepreneur at a time. Absa is investing in individuals, communities and enterprises and through its enterprise development programmes is changing the South African business landscape one entrepreneur at a time.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in a vast majority of economies. In South Africa, SMEs employ almost 60% of the employable population - with over 12 million livelihoods relying directly on SMEs. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in a vast economies. South Africa, SMEs Absamajority Bank Ltdof(Absa), whollyInowned subsidiary of employ Barclays almost 60% of the employable population - with 12 million Africa Group member of Barclays, recognises the over importance livelihoods relying directly on SMEs. of small businesses as catalysts for economic growth and job creation. Absa Bank Ltd (Absa), wholly owned subsidiary Barclays As a responsible corporate citizen, Absa lends itsofsupport Africa member the importance to the Group national agendaoftoBarclays, promoterecognises a thriving SME sector. of small businesses as catalysts for economic growthofand While financial support is a key driver of the success thejob creation. SME, access to markets and building business skills are also As a responsible corporate citizen, Absa lends its support significant challenges to address. to the national agenda to promote a thriving SME sector. While financial development support is a key driverfrom of the success The enterprise offering Absa aimsof tothe open SME, to markets and building aremarkets, also doorsaccess for SMEs by providing access inbusiness three keyskills areas: significant challenges to address. funding and non-financial support (business support). The enterprise development offering from Absa aims to open Access to markets doors by is providing access inobstacle three keyfacing areas:SMEs markets, Accessfor toSMEs markets a more pressing funding and to non-financial support support). than access funding. The market(business exists, but the linkages
don’t. Access tobuyers, markets Corporate for example, in terms of preferential Access to markets a more pressing obstacle facing SMEs procurement, face is the challenge of locating and identifying than access funding. And The the market exists, butstruggle the linkages suitable SMEtosuppliers. SMEs in turn don’t. with accessing these corporates in order to secure supplier Corporate contracts. buyers, for example, in terms of preferential procurement, face the challenge of locating identifying Absa’s Procurement Portal – a virtual marketand place – creates the suitable suppliers. SMEs inSMEs turn struggle linkages SME between buyersAnd andthe suppliers. on the portal are with accessing these corporates in orderusing to secure supplier validated and verified. They are located various searchable contracts. fields such as geographic location, size or BEE status. To date Absa’s Procurement Portal virtual market place – creates the there are 30 000 SMEs and–3a500 corporates actively using the linkages portal. between buyers and suppliers. SMEs on the portal are validated and verified. They are located using various searchable fields such is aspart geographic size or BEEtostatus. To date The portal of Absa’slocation, value proposition go beyond there areand 30 000 3 500 corporates actively using the banking openSMEs doorsand by addressing a primary obstacle portal. facing SMEs. Furthermore, Barclays Africa’s presence in 12 The portal is part of Absa’s value proposition to go beyond banking and open doors by addressing a primary obstacle facing SMEs. Furthermore, Barclays Africa’s presence in 12
countries across the continent creates opportunities for these entrepreneurs and emerging small businesses beyond South Africa’s borders. countriestoacross the continent creates opportunities for these Access funding
entrepreneurs and emerging small(or businesses beyond South Considering that five out of seven 80%) SMEs in South Africa’sfail borders. Africa in their first two years of operation – mostly due to cash-flow problems – it is clear that improved financial Access to funding support will empower more SMEs to realise their ambition, and Considering five out of sevenin(or 80%)Africa. SMEs in South contribute tothat sustainable growth South Africa fail in their first two years of operation – mostly due to cash-flow problems – it is clear that improved financial in In addressing SME challenges Absa needs to be innovative support will empower more SMEs to solutions. realise their ambition, and its approach to providing pioneering It can advance contribute sustainable in South valid Africa. funding to to SMEs that havegrowth been awarded and viable contracts. Cash-flow principles are the primary lending drivers In challenges Absaorneeds to be innovative in as addressing opposed toSME traditional collateral security-based lending. its approach to providing can advance Absa has committed R250pioneering million persolutions. annum inItnon-traditional funding to SMEs that have been awarded valid and viable lending aimed entirely at the SME sector in South Africa. This is contracts. are the primary lending in order to Cash-flow fund SMEsprinciples that typically would not meet thedrivers normal as opposed to traditional lending criteria required bycollateral banks. or security-based lending. Absa has committed R250 million per annum in non-traditional lending at the SMEAbsa sectorhas in South This is Over andaimed aboveentirely the R250 million, createdAfrica. specialised in order to fundfunding SMEs that typically not meet the normal non-traditional solutions to would assist SMEs: lending criteria required by banks. • The Women Empowerment Fund provides credit to women entrepreneurs who have the skills and demonstrable Over and above the R250 has created specialised potential to service theirmillion, debts. Absa The funding is available for non-traditional funding to assist SMEs: all women SMEs whosolutions do not have sufficient security to start • The Empowerment Fund provides creditcriteria. to women theirWomen businesses under ‘normal’ banking lending whoCredit have the skills and demonstrable • entrepreneurs The Development Fund in partnership with USAID. potential debts. The funding issecurity available This fundto is service offered their to SMEs with insufficient forfor all women SMEs who do not have sufficient securityby to astart existing business and start-ups. The fund is backed their 50% businesses guarantee. under ‘normal’ banking lending criteria. •• The Credit to Fund partnership withbeen USAID. The Development SME Fund is offered BEEinSMEs who have This fundcontracts is offeredor totenders SMEs with insufficient security fordoes awarded by Government. The fund existing business and start-ups. The fund is backed by a not require security. 50% guarantee. • In partnership with the French Development Agency, Absa • The SME an Fund is offered to BEE in SMEs who have been of up can offer exclusive incentive the form of a rebate awarded contracts or tenders byThis Government. The driving fund does to 7% of the total loan amount. is for projects not require security. • In partnership with the French Development Agency, Absa can offer an exclusive incentive in the form of a rebate of up to 7% of the total loan amount. This is for projects driving
Absa Bank Limited Reg No 1986/004794/06 Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7
Absa Bank Limited Reg No 1986/004794/06 Authorised Financial Services Provider Registered Credit Provider Reg No NCRCP7
energy efficiency and renewable energy. • The Thembani International Guarantee Fund supports business with a minimum of 51% BEE business in South and Southern Africa. The fund offers 50% and 75% guarantees energy to SME efficiency clients. and renewable energy. • The Thembani International Guarantee Fund supports business with a minimum of 51% BEE business in South and Access to non-financial support Southern Africa. The fund offers 50% 75% guarantees Another critical challenge facing SMEs is and structural in nature. to SME clients. SMEs fail, not for lack of technical ability, but rather because of a lack of general business skills.
Access to non-financial support
Another SMEs is structural nature. Absa hascritical seven challenge Centres offacing Entrepreneurship locatedinacross the SMEs fail, notthe for purpose lack of technical ability, but rather because of country with of providing a support environment a of general business tolack SMEs. The centres are askills. perfect example of private and public sector cooperation that have led to the costs traditionally Absa has seven Entrepreneurship located across the associated with Centres starting of and running a business being reduced. country theinclude purposeeverything of providing a support environment Serviceswith offered from providing access to to SMEs. The centres are a perfect example of private and infrastructure (computers and printers) and meeting rooms, public sectortraining cooperation that on have led toissues. the costs traditionally to providing seminars various Topics range associated starting and running a business reduced. from SARS with and labour regulation to financial skillsbeing training. Services offered include everything from providing access to Mentoring services are also provided. infrastructure (computers and printers) and meeting rooms, to providing training seminars variousAbsa issues. Through non-financial supporton offering, hasTopics helpedrange over from SARS anddevelop labour their regulation to financial 42 000 SMEs businesses in theskills past training. year through Mentoring servicestools, are also provided. training, business seminars and networking. By offering non-traditional support, the Centres of Entrepreneurship will Through non-financial support offering, Absa has helped bring more small businesses online and make it easier forover 42 000 SMEs develop theirand businesses in the past year through entrepreneurs to establish grow their businesses. training, business tools, seminars and networking. By offering non-traditional support, theand Centres of Entrepreneurship Access to markets, funding non-traditional support iswill a bring more small online and make easier for complex recipe forbusinesses a successful business. Like it any masterpiece entrepreneurs to establish andextra growdetermination their businesses. it takes time, effort and some to get the ball rolling. By investing in individuals, communities and enterprises, Access to markets, funding and non-traditional support is a Absa, through its Enterprise Development programmes, complex recipe a successful business. Like any masterpiece is changing the for South African business landscape, one it takes time, effort and some extra determination to get the ball entrepreneur at a time. rolling. By investing in individuals, communities and enterprises, Absa, its Enterprise Development programmes, 0860through 040 302 / absa.co.za is changing the South African business landscape, one entrepreneur at a time.
0860 040 302 / absa.co.za
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