PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER APRIL 2022
THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS
Flood relief
Govt digs deep to rebuild lives and livelihoods
Opportunity knocks Investment drive gains pace
APRIL 2022
Freedom Month Taking stock of democracy
PSM
Contents: April 2022
8 constitutional democratic project 14
President commits to fasttrack change in Mangaung President Cyril Ramaphosa was all ears as residents of Mangaung voiced their complaints and concerns about service delivery
16
14 All hands on deck as govt
explains how improved tax revenue supports the country’s recovery and growth
affected by the recent floods
18
National Health Insurance programme innovates
12
Freedom Month: Reflecting
public healthcare
supports flood victims
on SA's democratic gains
The Central Chronic
Freedom Month
Medicines Dispensing and
has been declared as
commemorations will be
Distribution programme is
government mobilises
used to take stock of the
revolutionising the way South
A National State of Disaster
2
President Cyril Ramaphosa
resources to support those
FEATURES 8
From the Union Buildings
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
encourages public servants to strive for excellence and continuous improvement in service delivery 26
Investing in SA President Cyril Ramaphosa's investment drive is gathering pace with
12 Africans receive their
suppliers timeously risk
medication
being exposed to costly litigation
22
investment pledges of R332 billion secured at the fourth SA Investment Conference 28
Transforming the marketing, advertising
Govt departments must pay suppliers on
and communication 24
Focus on putting
sector
time
people first
The recently launched
The Batho Pele
Marketing, Advertising
ments that fail to pay
Revitalisation Strategy
and Communications
Government depart-
30
Public Sector Manager THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS Publishers: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Enquiries: +27 012 473 0010 Switchboard: +27 012 473 0000 Tshedimosetso House: 1035 Francis Baard Street (corner Festival Street), Hatfield, Pretoria Private Bag X745, Pretoria, South Africa, 0001 www.gcis.gov.za Director-General Phumla Williams Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Nomonde Mnukwa Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Michael Currin Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Regomoditswe Mavimbela Head of Editorial and Production Tyrone Seale tyrone@gcis.gov.za Managing Editor Irene Naidoo irene@gcis.gov.za News Editor Irene Naidoo Contributors More Matshediso Silusapho Nyanda Jauhara Khan GCIS Photographic Unit Elmond Jiyane Ntswe Mokoena Siyabulela Duda Kopano Tlape Busisiwe Malungwane Graphic Designers Tendai Gonese Benny Kubjana
SA Charter Sector Council will broaden the participation of black people, women, youth and people with disabilities in the sector
LIFESTYLE 30
Travel Explore the majestic and magical Matroosberg
32
Grooming and style Fashion flashback: Retro style pieces making a comeback
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
3
MINISTER MONDLI GUNGUBELE’S MESSAGE
Presidential Imbizo ensure citizens’ voices are heard
A
Mondli Gungubele Minister in The Presidency
caring and respon-
state of roads, the lack of
sible government
water and electricity, the
is one that listens,
support needed by farm-
ties access to the human
to give life to Vision 2030
responds and acts when citi-
ers, the lack of job oppor-
capital and other resources
– encapsulated in our
zens speak.
tunities for the youth and
they need to meet their
National Development
the slow space of housing
delivery mandates and will
Plan – it is up to the public
projects, among others.
result in more accountabil-
service to ensure the those
Accountability is one
ity and better development
we serve are taken along
outcomes.
for the ride.
The recent Presidential Imbizo in the North West and Free State showed such a government in ac-
of the cornerstones of a
tion.
successful democracy and
What is clear from our
Community walkabouts,
during the Presidential
engagements in the North
stakeholder engagements
through on President Cyril
Imbizo, the people of the
West and Free State is that
and community meetings
Ramaphosa’s commitment
North West and Free State
izimbizo are an important
are needed to ensure this
in the State of the Nation
exercised their right to en-
tool in ensuring a more re-
happens.
Address that government
quire what was being done
sponsive government. Izim-
will leave no-one behind as
to better their daily lives.
bizo should be happening
government are uniting
at all tiers of government
through the DDM, so too
It was also a follow
Just as all levels of
it works with all sectors of
We listened to the con-
society to move the coun-
cerns raised and provided
– but most especially at the
must the public service
try forward.
feedback about what gov-
local level, where munici-
bring all levels of public
ernment will do to address
palities have the biggest
society together to work
these.
short-term, direct impact
alongside government.
President Ramaphosa and Cabinet Ministers, myself included, and
Citizens also heard how
representatives from pro-
the District Development
vincial and local govern-
Model (DDM) will speed up
ment visited the Ngaka
on the quality of life people enjoy.
I urge every public servant to follow the
Izimbizo are intertwined
President’s lead and also
service and infrastructure
with South Africa’s promo-
take the time to listen to
Modiri Molema District and
delivery challenges in their
tion of active citizenry.
the people you serve. We
Mangaung Metro to hear
area through the better
They promote two-way
should never assume that
firsthand about the service
integration of planning and
communication between
we know is best for citi-
delivery challenges faced
budgeting across all three
the public service and the
zens, without first under-
by communities.
tiers of government.
people we serve.
standing the problems they
We heard about the poor
4
This will give municipali-
As government works
face.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL
Freedom Day:
A time for recommitment or presenting services slop-
parency and accountability,
pily or uncaringly means
because a lack of these is
we are undermining the
as damaging as corruption.
values and objectives of
At the same time, Free-
our Constitution and we are
dom Day is also there for us
violating the essence of the
to celebrate that over-
public service call to action
whelming number of public
– Batho Pele – People First.
servants who are guided by
Freedom is hollow when
their conscience and their
we make people feel we are
competence, and are de-
doing them a favour when
livering services, amenities
we deliver services or ac-
and infrastructure that are
cess to facilities; when we
growing South Africa.
are spurred into action by
Phumla Williams,
F
GCIS Director-General.
reedom Day is an
sonally and the missions of
opportunity – but
the departments or entities
also a necessity – for
we represent?
South Africa’s more than one
For leaders in the public
This is the cohort of public
protest and public violence,
servants who give meaning
or when we cook the books
to the freedom of all South
or undertake unethical and
Africans and whose dedica-
corrupt actions that under-
tion is changing lives for
mine our integrity as the
the better, and creating the
state, or the impact of our
conditions for economic re-
implementation.
construction and recovery.
For public servants, hon-
This is the cohort of public
ouring our freedom means
servant on whom 12 million
fighting corruption with the
unemployed South Africans
million public servants – to
service, Freedom Day is
same level of perseverance
and people who may be
reflect on how we exercise
a day of recommitment
shown by the liberation
waiters, sales assistants,
our freedom and value our
to building a capable and
struggle stalwarts, because
spaza shopkeepers, entre-
democracy in our own lives.
ethical state, and a day of
it threatens to derail gov-
preneurs or educators de-
Do our values and be-
recommitment to serving
ernment’s efforts to deliver
pend for better prospects.
haviours correspond with
the people of our nation
decent housing, schools,
the missions of the depart-
with enthusiasm, pride, ef-
healthcare and other basic
public servant who must
ments and entities in which
ficiency and effectiveness.
rights.
speak out and act against
This is the cohort of
we operate, or is there a
Freedom is in our hands
disconnect between how
in the sense that withhold-
good governance, profes-
we conduct ourselves per-
ing services from citizens,
sionalism and ethics, trans-
6
It means standing up for
incompetence, laziness and corruption in their midst.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
FEATURE
Source: SAnews Images: GCIS
President C yril Ramaphosa meets with residents affected by the recent floods in KwaZulu-Natal.
All hands on deck as govt supports flood victims G
“Second, we will focus on
overnment has
sa said government will
adopted a phased
respond to the disaster in
stabilisation and recovery,
approach to help
three phases.
rehousing people who have
South Africans recover from
“First, we will focus on im-
be on reconstruction and rebuilding. “This will not only involve
lost homes and restoring
the construction and repair
the recent floods that rav-
mediate humanitarian relief,
provision of services,” said
of major infrastructure.
aged KwaZulu-Natal and the
ensuring that all affected
the President, in a recent
It will also involve the
Eastern Cape.
persons are safe and that
address to the nation.
construction of houses in
President Cyril Ramapho-
8
their basic needs are met.
The third area of focus will
suitably-located areas and
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
measures to protect the
ment departments are
residents of these areas
working with their provin-
from such adverse weather
cial and local counterparts
events in the future,” he
to ensure an effective
added.
response in the allocation
Cabinet recently declared
of financial resources and
a National State of Disaster
technical expertise to the
in response to the floods.
emergency.
The lives, health and wellbeing of thousands of people are still at risk. The floods have caused great economic and social damage.
More than 400 people lost
The President said the
their lives in KwaZulu-Natal,
South African Police Ser-
and a number of people
vice and the South African
are still missing or unac-
National Defence Force
ities; non-governmental or-
of funds available as part of
counted for. One death has
(SANDF) have been leading
ganisations and businesses
our efforts with the Solidar-
also been reported in the
search and rescue efforts.
have been distributing basic
ity Fund to implement these
relief materials such as
support measures.
Eastern Cape.
This includes the deployment of SAPS person-
food, blankets, mattresses,
homes were completely
nel, diving teams, canine
clothing, chronic medica-
effectively managed the
destroyed and over 8 300
units and various vessels,
tion, toiletries and cooking
resources that govern-
homes were partially dam-
helicopters and fixed-wing
utensils.
ment, the private sector
aged. It is also estimated
planes to the most affected
that more than 40 000
areas.
Approximately 4 000
people have been displaced
“Aircraft from the SANDF
Solidarity Fund
“The Solidarity Fund has
and many South Africans made available to man-
The President met with the
age the COVID-19 effort as
have been used both for
leadership of the Solidarity
well as the July 2021 unrest
The President described
rescue and for the delivery
Fund “to ask that it makes
assistance measures,” the
the floods as a humanitar-
of relief supplies – such as
its capacity available to
President said.
ian disaster that called for a
food, water, tents and blan-
confront this dire emer-
“massive and urgent relief
kets – to people in inacces-
gency”.
effort.”
sible areas.
by the floods.
“The lives, health and
“I have authorised the
The fund will set up a separate bank account for
The board of the fund
the flood disaster that can
agreed to assist with hu-
be used by South African
well-being of thousands of
SANDF to bring in more
manitarian and other forms
and foreign donors who
people are still at risk. The
personnel, water storage
of relief in partnership with
want to contribute to relief
floods have caused great
and purification supplies
government, the private
efforts.
economic and social dam-
and engineering teams to
sector and various other
age,” he said.
assist with electricity and
non-governmental and
water restoration,” he said
community-based organisa-
R1 billion allocation
tions.
“The Minister of Finance
Coordinated effort Several national govern-
In addition, government departments at national and
“The National Treasury
provincial levels; municipal-
will make an initial amount
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
has said that R1 billion is immediately available, and
9
FEATURE
will be approaching Parlia-
production,” the President
to this disaster are properly
mented by an additional
ment for the appropriation
cautioned.
accounted for and that the
100 tankers. Most areas
state receives value for
that experienced electricity
money,” he added.
disruptions, particularly in
of additional resources,” added the President. He is also expected to ap-
No room for corruption
eThekwini, are now back to
proach the Presiding Offic-
He warned that there will
ers to request a Joint Sitting
be no room for corruption,
Water, housing and roads
of Parliament to ensure that
mismanagement or fraud.
In a bid to ensure the sup-
man Settlements has begun
ply of clean water in the
an assessment of damages
the elected representa-
The President stressed
full service.” The Department of Hu-
tives are directly involved in
that all the resources mobi-
affected areas, the Depart-
to houses across the prov-
oversight of the work that is
lised must be used for its in-
ment of Water and Sanita-
ince, and has determined
needed to provide relief and
tended purposes and reach
tion is leading efforts to
initial requirements for the
rebuild.
the intended recipients.
restore water supply to ar-
provision of temporary
“Learning from the ex-
eas of eThekwini that were
accommodation, repairs to
ment of the economic cost
perience of the COVID-19
affected by the damage to
damaged houses and the
of these floods still has to
pandemic, we are drawing
infrastructure.
replacement of destroyed
be made, but it is clear that
together various stakehold-
it will run into billions of
ers to be part of an over-
being supplied by water
Preparations are under-
rands for the rebuilding of
sight structure to ensure all
tankers, with the munici-
way to provide temporary
infrastructure and loss of
funds disbursed to respond
pal fleet being comple-
residential units, with
“A comprehensive assess-
10
“Areas without water are
houses.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
construction expected to start soon. “Financial assistance through a voucher system is being made available to assist households to rebuild partially damaged houses. “Infrastructure South Africa is also working with relevant departments in all spheres to provide technical support for the repair and rebuilding of infrastructure, including roads, bridges and schools that have been damaged,” said the President. The South African National Roads Agency
have been affected by the
is the lead agency on the
floods.
extensive work required to
“Sixteen of these schools cannot be accessed due
those most affected. He expressed his appre-
to damage to connecting
ciation to the emergency
roads and bridges. We are
service personnel, including
saddened by the reports
health care workers, police
starting with an immediate
Businesses and infrastructure
focus on the N2 and N3
The President noted that
that a number of learners
and defence personnel, mu-
highways.
the damage caused to busi-
and at least one educator
nicipal workers, volunteers
nesses in the area has not
have died.
and community members
repair roads in the province,
“To date, around 1 300 road repair projects have
been fully quantified, but
been identified by the
assessments so far suggest
care facilities have been
great risk to themselves,
agencies involved. Progress
that the eThekwini metro
affected, although there has
saving lives and providing
has been made in restoring
accounts for nearly half of
been minimal disruption
support.
operations at the Port of
all the reported damage.
to health services in most
Durban, opening alternative
There has been extensive
“Sixty-six public health
who spent many hours, at
“We are a nation united in
affected districts,” President
our determination to assist
Ramaphosa said.
those who have lost their
routes for trucks to access
damage to public infra-
the port terminals and clean
structure, including schools,
up debris in the harbour,”
health facilities, police
Helping others
the President said.
stations and magistrates’
The President commended
ate need of food, water
courts. It is estimated that
the many individuals and
and shelter,” the President
Business Development is
over 270 000 learners have
organisations that have tak-
added.
also mobilising funds to
been affected and over 600
en the initiative to provide
assist small businesses that
schools were damaged.
humanitarian assistance to
The Department of Small
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
homes and possessions, and who are in desper-
11
FEATURE
Source: SAnews
Freedom Month: Reflecting on SA's democratic gains
very core of the first development blueprint, i.e. the Reconstruction and Development Plan. “In giving meaning to
M
freedom, successive
inister of
theme is our conviction
Sport, Arts and
that besides the many
Provision of basic services
Culture Nathi
challenges that have
The Minister noted that
had to intensify efforts
Mthethwa has called on
threatened to stymie this
one of the enduring sins
in making sure that the
the nation to use Free-
important constitutional
of apartheid was the ne-
most basic of services
dom Month to reflect on
democratic project, there
glect of black communi-
are delivered to the peo-
the country’s democratic
are gains that we ought
ties, even in terms of the
ple,” he said.
gains as the dignity of
to safeguard,” Minister
provision of basic ser-
The 2019 Baseline Sur-
millions of South Africans
Mthethwa said.
vices, which impugned
vey of the Foundation for
democratic administrations since 1994 have
continues to be restored.
This year’s Freedom
on their human dignity.
Human Rights is one of
Addressing the launch
Month, marked every
“It therefore stands to
the most reliable pieces
of Freedom Month re-
year in the month of
reason that the provi-
of empirical data that
cently, the Minister said
April, will be celebrated
sion of basic services
offers a glimpse of South
this year’s commemora-
under the theme: “Con-
such as electricity, clean
Africa’s progress since
tion will be used to take
solidating Our Demo-
running water as well as
1994 into some of these
stock of the constitution-
cratic Gains”. This year
provision of other basic
most basic of human
al democratic project.
marks 28 years since the
infrastructure to previ-
needs.
dawn of democracy in
ously disadvantaged
1994.
communities was at the
“Inherent, therefore in Freedom Month 2022’s
According to the survey, in terms of housing, 82% of the adult population live in formal housing, although increased migration from the rural hinterlands into the major urban centres threaten to derail some of the gains in this regard. In addition, increased
12
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
immigration into South
history project that we
Africa by persons who
support,” the Minister
boast no special or
said.
scarce skill, and who
Through the geo-
are principally economic
graphical names project,
migrants, has also put
government has also de-
further strain on the
liberately set the country
housing statistics.
on a path towards healing by changing names
“Sanitation, water and electricity are impor-
of towns and cities,
tant sets of indicators
which have unsavoury
in tracking the nation’s
colonial and apartheid
progress since the dawn
mate of only 53.6% in
deserving student has
of democracy in 1994.
the October Household
had the necessary finan-
Survey of 1994,” he said.
cial assistance they re-
always sought to consult
quire – but government
widely in ensuring that
“According to the 2019 Baseline Survey of the
The Minister also
connotations. “In doing so, we have
Foundation for Human
acknowledged the role
has since been explor-
the affected commu-
Rights, progress has
of the Presidential Youth
ing other more efficient
nities are part of the
been impressive in this
Employment Interven-
avenues for assistance
name-change process.
regard, considering the
tion, which has enabled
in closing this gap.”
Despite occasional
fact that clean running
young people to access
water and electricity
opportunities.
were a novelty for many
He added that through
Heritage landscape
litigation by disgruntled parties, this process has had resounding success
communities during
the National Student
There has also been
and it thus remain work-
apartheid,” said Minister
Financial Aid Scheme,
much transformation
in-progress.
Mthethwa.
government has made
with regard to heritage. “For our part, transfor-
“He stressed that symbolism is extremely im-
He added that survey
it possible for a vast
shows that only 10% of
majority of the black
mation of the heritage
portant. It is also through
adults reported to have
poor youth to access
landscape, which had
symbolism that people
access to water outside
higher education, which
largely remained white,
feel part of a community
of their yards or their
remains one of the fore-
has been key. This is
and the broader society
places of dwelling.
most channels to break
our own way as a sector
and geographical name
the cycle of generational
in bringing meaning to
change is one of those
poverty.
freedom. In ensuring
potent assistive we have
“With regards to electricity, an overwhelming majority of 92% have
“Of course, as we
that the many unearthed
available as a depart-
access to electricity.
learned our lessons
and untold stories are
ment in effecting the
A resounding success
from the Fees-Must-Fall
given the platform
desired social change,”
compared to the esti-
phenomenon, not every
through the national oral
the Minister said.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
13
FEATURE
Source: SAnews
President commits to fast-track change in Mangaung
L
President C yril Ramaphosa addresses citizens during a Presidential Imbizo Mangaung Metro, Free State.
ack of service delivery,
dress (SONA) Presidential
corruption, inad-
Imbizo where engagement
President Ramaphosa as-
equate housing and
with citizens is themed on
sured residents of the Free
3 000 WhatsApp messages
crime – these are some of the
the President’s SONA call
State and Mangaung Metro
to the Presidency. President
challenges President Cyril
to action, Leave No One
that the national interven-
Ramaphosa committed that
Ramaphosa said government
Behind.
tion is directed at relieving
Minister in the Presidency
the dire financial position
Mondli Gungubele and his
concerns and as govern-
of the municipality and
staff will look at the con-
ment, we are going to
addressing issues affecting
cerns raised and respond
dential Imbizo to engage
address them,” President
communities.
to them.
Mangaung residents on
Ramaphosa said during the
the challenges they face
community engagement at
ment is dealing with corrupt
daily. The imbizo was part
the Dr Molemela Stadium in
officials and that services
Residents speak out
of the District Development
Bloemfontein.
will be delivered to the
During the mass interaction
people of Mangaung.
at the stadium, residents
will address in Mangaung Metro, Free State.
He recently led a Presi-
Model, which is being rolled
“We have heard your
Cabinet recently ap-
Keen to make their voices
139(7) of the Constitution.
He added that govern-
heard, residents sent over
out to improve the quality of
proved an intervention by
life for citizens.
the national executive in the
change is going to continue
were given the opportunity
governance of Mangaung
being present here,” Presi-
to comment openly and to
Metro, in terms of Section
dent Ramaphosa said.
put questions and com-
It was the second postState of the Nation Ad-
14
from all parts of the metro
“Change is here ... and
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
plaints to the President and other leaders. The President then invited Ministers to respond to
Minister Cele said police
entrepreneurship training
will arrest criminals, regard-
the imbizo must result in
in areas such as visual arts,
less of their nationality.
the resolution of the service
beauty technology and
delivery problems raised by
jewellery design.
“We arrest first then ask
residents on the issues they
later where you come from,”
had raised.
he said.
He welcomed community
President Ramaphosa said
Water and Sanitation
the community.
The college is one of
As part of the imbizo
the four public Technical
programme, the President
Vocational Education and
members’ outspokenness,
Minister Senzo Mchunu re-
visited the Vereeniging
Training [TVET] colleges in
saying the imbizo would as-
sponded to concerns about
Interchange, following the
the Free State. It comprises
sist government in ensuring
blocked sewage pipes, say-
extension of Vereeniging
six campuses, including a
adequate and sustainable
ing his department will fix
Avenue and the construc-
Centre for Entrepreneur-
delivery of basic services.
all worn out pipes.
tion of a bridge over the
ship, Rapid Incubator and
“We are honoured that
With regard to the prov-
railway line. This infrastruc-
an artisan academy.
you have heeded our call to
ince’s roads, Transport Min-
ture project was initiated for
become part of the solu-
ister Fikile Mbalula said his
spatial integration and to
students to follow their pas-
tion,” said the President.
department has set aside
alleviate traffic congestion.
sions and pursue entre-
In his response to concerns about crime, Police
R1.4 billion to fix the roads. The Minister said the
The President encouraged
The President also visited
preneurship as a means of
the Motheo TVET Artisans
sustaining themselves and
Minister Bheki Cele assured
South African National
College, where he held
contributing to economic
the community that he will
Roads Agency has been
conversations with young
growth.
visit the area again in three
asked to assist with repair-
men and women who are
weeks’ time.
ing roads in the Free State.
receiving artisanal and
Mangaung residents inundated President C yril Ramaphosa with complaints about how government has failed and frustrated them.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
15
A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa
Improved tax revenue
key institutions, SARS had suffered from the ill-effects of state capture, with political meddling, mismanagement and other factors seriously affecting
supports recovery and growth
its efficiency. This had the direct consequence of not only undermining taxpayer morality, but also loss of business confidence in the organisation. In 2018, I appointed a commission of inquiry into tax administration and governance at SARS chaired by retired Justice Robert Nugent. The commission delivered its final report by the end of the same year.
R
Four years later, SARS ecently, the South
lished 25 years ago.
has implemented nearly all
new roads, and support
of the 16 recommendations
collection agency is at the
society’s most vulnerable
and 27 sub-recommenda-
nounced in its preliminary
heart of building a capable
through social grants and
tions to restore stability to
tax revenue collection out-
state.
other measures.
the organisation.
African Revenue Service (SARS) an-
A competent tax revenue
tals, upgrade and build
SARS has driven a fo-
Tax revenue propels our
When tax revenue col-
over R1.5 trillion between
nation’s development. The
lection systems and their
cused turnaround strategy
April 2021 and March 2022.
money collected by SARS
supporting legislation are
to position itself at the
finances service delivery
efficient, uncomplicated
forefront of efficiency and
and infrastructure.
and equitable, it incentiv-
service excellence. It has a
ises greater compliance.
concerted programme to
Restoring stability and
promote tax morality and
come that it had collected
This a 25% improvement over the previous year and a 15% increase over
Through the R17.8 trillion
the last year prior to the
that SARS has collected
COVID-19 pandemic.
since its establishment
credibility in SARS was
compliance.
in 1997, we have been
among my foremost pri-
SARS also paid out its
able to build more social
orities when I was elected
modity prices, resulting
highest amount in tax
infrastructure like clin-
President in 2018.
in increased corporate
refunds since it was estab-
ics, schools and hospi-
Over the same period,
16
Like a number of other
Current high com-
income tax revenues, have
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
Photo by Isaac Smith on Unsplash
FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS
contributed to the latest
listed companies, multina-
SARS is taking the
revenue collection windfall.
tionals and high net worth
wind out of the sails of
has achieved in a rela-
What has also played a
individuals is now more ef-
tax dodgers, beneficiar-
tively short space of time.
role are the steps SARS
fectively managed through
ies of the proceeds of
has taken to improve its
its Large Business Unit,
crime, and those involved
are well-run and efficient,
information technology
which was relaunched in
in corrupt activities. It
when they demonstrate
and other infrastructure,
2020.
is well-established that
credibility and fairness
As a result of SARS’
to learn from what SARS
When state institutions
‘the taxman’ is one of the
in their operations, this
skilled staff, and combat
turnaround there has been
most efficient tools to
contributes to increasing
tax avoidance and criminal
improved compliance in
combat corruption.
levels of trust in gov-
activity.
personal income tax, cor-
modernise customs, recruit
In cases where an indi-
investor confidence also
One of the recommendations of the Nugent
improve, encouraging
Commission was that
When state institutions are well-run and efficient, when they demonstrate credibility and fairness in their operations, this contributes to increasing levels of trust in government.
SARS re-establish capacity to monitor and investigate illicit trades. The Illicit Economy Unit that was reconstituted in 2018 has notched up a number of successes in combating illicit economy
economic growth. The leadership and the staff SARS are to be congratulated on its performance. Thanks must go to the loyal South African taxpayer. Without their cooperation, the latest been possible.
a focus on customs nonTax collection from JSE
greater investment and
revenues would not have
trades, including through compliance.
ernment. Business and
porate income tax and Pay
vidual’s lifestyle does not
as You Earn.
match what they declare,
panded the tax base with
SARS has been conduct-
1.8 million new registra-
ing lifestyle audits. In the
tions over the past year is
last year, SARS has com-
another sterling achieve-
pleted lifestyle audits that
ment.
That SARS has ex-
resulted in the collection
We can only rebuild
of a further R474 million.
South Africa if we con-
As we forge ahead
tinue to meet this shared
with efforts to strengthen
obligation, and if we
the capacity of the state
intensify the work cur-
and rebuild institutions
rently underway to ensure
that were systemati-
that these taxes are used
cally weakened by state
wisely and efficiently.
capture, we have much
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
17
FEATURE
Writer: Allison Cooper
NHI programme innovates public healthcare
O
ver five million
programme, known as Dab-
by the National Department
changing epidemiological
South Africans no
lapmeds, won the Public
of Health in 2014, due to
profile led to an overexten-
longer have to trav-
Sector Innovator of the Year
unprecedented growth in
sion of public sector health-
el great distances or stand
award at the recent Public
patients requiring access to
care facilities”, explains
in long queues to get their
Sector Innovation Awards.
long-term therapies.
Munsamy.
monthly chronic medication,
It also won other award
thanks to an innovative Na-
categories.
This resulted in enormous
“South Africa introduced universal access to antiret-
strain on available resourc-
roviral (ARV) therapy, and
es and contributed towards
Munsamy, NHI Techni-
there has been a steady
medicine shortages and
cal Specialist: Contract-
increase in non-commu-
challenges in the quality of
Medicines Dispensing and
ing, Head: CCMDD, the
nicable diseases requir-
care provided.
Distribution (CCMDD)
programme was launched
ing chronic therapy. This
tional Health Insurance (NHI) pilot programme.
The Central Chronic
18
According to Maggie
In addition, hospital
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
patients experienced
But imagine if you are out shopping for groceries and at the same time you could pick up your medication – no waiting in long lines, no spending the entire day at a health facility, do one trip and save transport costs.
protracted waiting times, congested dirty facilities, poor staff communication, poor health outcomes and stock outages. “They [patients] had to return to the health facility, incurring significant transport costs. As a result, some patients never returned,” says Munsamy.
Easy access
and private sector. The programme consists of central dispensing opera-
on weekends and public holidays,” says Munsamy. “Patients can also choose
supply chain processes. “Only stable patients are registered on the pro-
tions that obtain electronic
an unaided PuP. For exam-
gramme, giving them an
The CCMDD programme
or manual prescriptions for
ple, a smart locker. Then
incentive to remain adher-
provides an alternative
stable chronic patients from
they receive an SMS and
ent to their treatment,” says
mechanism to facilitate ac-
health facilities; dispenses
OTP to open the locker.
Munsamy.
cess to medicine for stable
medicines and delivers
Only patients who have a
chronic patients.
patients’ medicine parcels
cellphone can use this op-
only have to visit the clinic
to the facility where they
tion,” she adds.
twice a year, as opposed to
“Traditionally, healthcare is rendered from a health
are registered.
NHI innovation
Those on the programme
those who are not on the
facility, hospital or doctor’s
Medicine parcels are also
room. Healthcare rendered
delivered to an external pick
The programme has
from any other place, for
up point (PuP) for collec-
strengthened health
example, a greengrocer,
tion.
systems and generated
Treger, the Principal In-
improvements for a wide
vestigator for BroadReach
tients with a more conveni-
array of stakeholders, says
Health Development,
ent option, closer to their
Munsamy.
patients can also nominate
beauty or general store, was inconceivable. “But imagine if you are out
External PuPs provide pa-
programme, who have to visit monthly. According to Latasha
shopping for groceries and
home or workplace, to col-
at the same time you could
lect their repeat medicine.
to chronic medicines, it
pick up your medication –
There are over 2 800 PuPs
also decreased the stigma
no waiting in long lines, no
contracted, of which
for HIV patients; improved
Development has been the
spending the entire day at
1 158 are pharmacies.
the quality of care, service
national CCMDD support
delivery and patients’ expe-
partner, assisting with im-
rience.
plementation since October
a health facility, do one trip
“Patients are given an
and save transport costs,”
appointment card, with their
says Munsamy.
medication collection due
Besides improved access
It has also ensured decon-
someone to collect their medication on their behalf. BroadReach Health
2021
date on it. They can also
gestion of health facilities;
plementing a disruptive
choose the time they want
improved the availability of
variety of medications (for
strategy, positive change
to collect, as most contract-
reliable data to inform deci-
different conditions) can be
was brought into the public
ed PuPs are operational
sion making; and improved
delivered to one patient, in
She adds that by im-
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
“Another benefit is that a
19
FEATURE
one parcel, as opposed to multiple health facility visits.
Private sector partners
of other non-communicable
gramme implementation. BroadReach also provides
diseases, says
The CCMDD is consid-
support to the provincial
facilities and their staff as
ered one of the National
CCMDD programme,
it lessens their workload,
Department of Health’s
providing ongoing coor-
tion was added to the
enabling healthcare work-
most successful NHI pilot
dination and technical
programme for stable TB
ers to spend more time with
interventions.
assistance.
patients.
“It also benefits health
patients who are sick or
“It is an innovative ap-
Munsamy. In March, TB medica-
“This is done by pro-
During COVID-19, fa-
proach to strengthening
gramme coordinators, who
cilities were able to provide
health service delivery by
work with provinces to
12-month scripts to stable
contributed to job creation,
addressing key bottlenecks
facilitate implementation,
patients, enabling medica-
as the PuPs have employed
and challenges within the
including supporting them
tion to be dispensed for a
additional staff from com-
health system,” says Treger.
to develop CCMDD annual
full year without the need
plans, monitoring imple-
to go into a health facility.
unstable,” says Treger. The CCMDD has also
munities, creating over 2 800 jobs, says Munsamy.
BroadReach is responsible for providing ad-
mentation and addressing
“While this returned to six
ministrative and financial
challenges and bottlenecks
months in September 2021,
is also being promoted
technical support to the
on the ground,” Treger
based on the COVID-19
for unemployed youth.
programme, through
explains.
experience, it is evident that
Approximately 740 staff
the secondment of four
are employed by the two
finance/admin officers who
ners include Health System
well for stable patients,”
service providers,” she adds.
oversee all aspects of pro-
Trust (2014 to 2021), the
says Treger.
“Home delivery by bicycle
Other programme part-
12-month dispensing works
previous national support
20
As for future growth,
partner, which still supports
Treger expects an increase
the CCMDD electronic sys-
in the number of patients in
tem SYNCH; and Project
the programme, and expan-
Last Mile, which provides
sion of dispensing for other
technical assistance.
chronic health conditions.
CCMDD growth
proud that the initiative was
The programme started in
embraced by clinicians, pa-
the 11 NHI districts, with
tients and communities. We
ARVs. It was then rolled out
are pleased to be honoured
to eight provinces,
with the title ‘Innovator of
all 46 districts (except the
the Year’, as this recognises
Western Cape, which has
our continuous quest
its own programme) and
to better the lives of the
over 3 587 public health
people in SA and create
facilities, in a phased ap-
a healthy life for all,” says
proach, with the inclusion
Munsamy.
“The department is very
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
FEATURE
Government
departments must pay suppliers on time
T
he Public Service Commission (PSC) has warned govern-
ment departments that they risk being exposed to costly litigation due to the late and non-payment of suppliers.
“Late and non-payment of suppliers can expose departments to costly litigation including being ordered to pay interest on late payments resulting in the already scarce financial resources being diverted from priority areas,” said PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.
Commission report for the
He added that PSC sup-
“The PSC has made
period 1 October 2021 to 31
several recommendations
ports the action taken by
are required to settle all
December 2021, Gxoyiya
taking into consideration
President Cyril Ramaphosa
contractual obligations
added that the non-pay-
the reasons provided by
to address the issue of
and pay all monies owed,
ment or late payment of
national and provincial
late and non-payment of supplies.
Government departments
including intergovern-
suppliers also impacts the
departments, such as
mental claims, within the
financial health of busi-
misfiled, misplaced or
prescribed 30 days from
nesses.
unrecorded invoices that
Address, the President
are rooted in the lack of
announced the current
receipt of an invoice or, in
In his State of the Nation
the case of civil claims, the
Compliance
internal controls measures,
Chairperson of the Small
date of settlement or court
The PSC is monitoring
which refer to not only the
Business Institute will head
judgement.
compliance with the 30-
systemic issues but also
a unit in the Presidency to
day payment provision of
human resources short-
identify priority reforms for
invoices of suppliers.
comings,” Gxoyiya said.
the year ahead, including
Releasing the PSC’s Pulse of the Public Service
22
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
mechanisms to ensure
a significant increase in
National Anti-Corruption
submitted to Complaints
government departments
the number of invoices at
Hotline (NACH), Gxoyiya
and Grievance Panel for
pay suppliers within the
the Department of Public
said 24 650 cases of al-
the determination of the
required 30 days.
Works and Infrastructure’s
leged corruption were re-
closure.
Trading Entity (PMTE),
ported as at 31 December
“Sixty-five feedback of
been an improvement in
which recorded 356
2021 since the inception of
alleged corruption relating
the payment of suppliers
invoices despite the lower
the NACH in September
to provincial departments
by the national depart-
cost of R49 233 as at the
2004.
were presented to the pro-
ments during the third
end of December 2021
quarter, despite the late
compared to 23 at the end
of 2021/2022 financial
through early resolution,”
submission of information
of September 2021 at a
year, the PSC recorded
he said.
to the National Treasury.
cost of R 4 343 261.
a total of 347 cases. This
Gxoyiya said there has
According to the report,
The PSC expressed con-
During the third quarter
vincial panels and closed
According to Gxoyiya,
is slightly higher than
all the 65 cases relating
the Department of Water
cern over the persistent
337 cases received in the
to provincial departments
and Sanitation, excluding
late or non-submission of
second quarter and 282
were unsubstantiated.
its trading entity, owed
exception reports to the
received in the first quarter
a significant number of
National Treasury from a
of 2020/2021 financial
members of the public and
invoices for the period -199
number of government
year.
whistle-blowers to provide
invoices at a cost of
departments.
R266 729 456 compared to
“During the first, second
full detailed information
and third quarter of the
to enable investigators to
2021/2022 financial year,
make informed conclusions,” he added.
169 invoices at a cost of
Corruption
R351 373 606 at the end of
With regard to cases of al-
32 feedback of alleged
September 2021.
leged corruption received
corruption relating to
by the PSC through the
national departments were
The report also noted
“The PSC encourages
For the full report, go to
www.psc.gov.za
Trends analysis of cases received during the 2017/2018 to 2021/2022 financial years
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
23
Writer: Allison Cooper
FEATURE
G
overnment’s Batho Pele Revitalisation Strategy, which
encourages public servants to strive for excellence and continuous improvement in service delivery, presents
Focus on
putting people first
an opportunity to focus on the state of the public ser-
public service,” explained
democratic values and
the Batho Pele Policy, the
vice in South Africa, while
former Minister of Public
principles enshrined in the
WPTPSD requires public
planning for the future.
Service and Administration
Bill of Rights, and a timeous
institutions to ensure that
Ayanda Dlodlo.
response to the voices of
citizens’ needs become the
the Batho Pele Revitalisa-
Cabinet recently approved
The revitalisation strat-
citizens calling for a public
main focus of public service
tion Strategy, which forms
egy seeks to re-affirm the
administration system that
delivery and that all citizens
part of government’ efforts
significance of Batho Pele
puts their needs and aspi-
have equal access to public
to professionalise the public
in transforming public
rations first,” she said.
services of the same high
service.
service delivery, while
quality.
“This strategy will give
securing maximum benefits
effect to the strengthening
for citizens in line with their
Revitalising implementation
of a capable, ethical and
constitutional rights to be
Since government’s adop-
mission (PSC) conducted
developmental state, which
treated with dignity and
tion of the White Paper on
eight studies to assess the
remains a critical interven-
courtesy, and to receive
Transforming Public Service
level of compliance with
tion in serving the citizens
quality and sustainable
Delivery (WPTPSD) in 1997,
the implementation of the
of South Africa.
public services.
public service delivery
Batho Pele Policy in public
transformation programmes
institutions.
Between 2005 and 2009, the Public Service Com-
“It will also strengthen the
“The operationalisation
implementation of the eight
of the Batho Pele Revitali-
have been citizen-centred,
principles of Batho Pele
sation Strategy will bring
as required by the Constitu-
the significance of the
[People First] and drive be-
about a public administra-
tion.
Batho Pele Policy in trans-
havioural change within the
tion that personifies the
24
Commonly known as
The findings confirmed
forming public service de-
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
livery, and pointed towards
emerged from the 1997
through appropriate
pillar is expected to achieve
the public service’s failure
Batho Pele Policy had
measures where there
the following outcomes:
to implement the Batho
reached maturity after 24
is evidence of poor or
• Visible leadership
Pele Policy.
years of existence (1997-
non-compliance with
by the Department
2021), and the programme’s
publicised standards.
of Public Service
This was due to a lack of skills, the absence of Batho
impact had fallen signifi-
Pele standards, and a
cantly.
general failure to link Batho
The Batho Pele Revitalisa-
Pele with organisational
tion Strategy is therefore a
strategy.
re-designed implementa-
In 2012, the PSC released the ‘Report on the Assessment of the Effectiveness
and Administration
who are the centre of
and expert techni-
government’s consti-
cal assistance on the
tutional obligations.
operationalisation of
Each of the pillars will be
Batho Pele.
tion approach to the Batho
implemented through vari-
• Greater awareness of
Pele Policy.
ous programmes designed
the Batho Pele Policy
to generate positive service
and its benefits for
delivery experiences and
citizens and other
of the Batho Pele Policy in
The five pillars
Public Service Delivery’.
The Batho Pele Revitalisa-
It went beyond Batho Pele
• Redress for citizens
tion Strategy is under-
compliance issues, and
pinned by five inter-con-
examined whether the im-
nected pillars, namely:
plementation of the Batho
outcomes for citizens.
Batho Pele principles
service recipients. • Increased compliance with the constitutional principles of public
The revitalisation strategy
accountability and
Pele Policy had made a
building capacity and
also seeks to strengthen
transparency.
difference in citizens’ lives.
learning from past
the implementation of the
A key finding in the report
and current Batho
eight Batho Pele principles,
building (and other
was that it had not.
Pele implementation
to drive behavioural change
interventions) in
practices.
in the public service.
accordance with the
As a result, the recommendations of the PSC
• Taking the lead, by
• The development of
All public servants are
• Targeted capacity-
needs of institutions.
report and similar stud-
context-specific Batho
required to practice the
ies specifically referred
Pele standards and
eight Batho Pele princi-
cost-effective platform
to a need to re-design,
communication ap-
ples, namely: consultation,
for acknowledging
strengthen and revitalise
proaches, in consulta-
service standards, courtesy,
public service delivery
the Batho Pele implementa-
tion with a diversity of
access, information, open-
innovations and other
stakeholders.
ness and transparency,
tion approach. A programme is revital-
• Fostering compliance
ised when it’s considered
with agreed to and
essential, but has reached
publicised Batho Pele
maturity and lost its impact.
standards, through
dealing with complaints and giving best value.
• An accessible and
good practices. • Improved citizen trust in government service delivery and a decline
appropriate monitor-
Expected outcomes
evidence from the PSC
ing of compliance
According to the strategy
reduced spending on
assessments and other
tools.
document, the implemen-
complaints and ap-
tation of the Batho Pele
peals handling.
Based on empirical
research studies, the Batho Pele programme that Public Sector Manager • April 2022
• Reinforcement of Batho Pele standards
in the cost of service delivery through
programmes within each
25
FEATURE
Writers: Allison Cooper and SAnews
Investing in SA
P
resident Cyril
conferences, the drive had
Ramaphosa’s ambi-
reached R1.14 trillion.
tious R1.2 trillion
“With just one year left to
nation open for business. The President saluted the fact that the commitments came from companies from all corners of the globe. With a large amount of investment commitments in the mining sector, President
He added that the willing-
Ramaphosa said this was
ness to invest in South Af-
testament that the sector
rica, showed that investors
was not a sunset industry
investment drive is 95%
go, we have now reached
believe South Africa is on
as many had suggested.
complete, just a year short of
95% of the ambitious target
the right track, despite all
“Mining in South Africa
its five-year target.
we set four years ago. What
the challenges.
With 80 investment
this means is that we are
pledges – totalling R332 bil-
now only R60 billion short
lion – unveiled at the fourth
of our target.
SA Investment Conference
“I expect that by next year
is on the resurgence and it is a sunrise industry. It is
Open for business
pleasing that there are several investments in metal
He said the value of such
fabrication as we saw in other manufacturing.
(SAIC) recently, President
we will not just reach our
conferences is that it makes
Ramaphosa said with
target – we will exceed it,”
people realise that South
investments from previous
said the President.
Africa is an investable desti-
The investments to add value jobs that would oth-
President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the fourth SA Investment Conference.
26
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
erwise have gone to more industrialised countries.” He also hailed the investments in the film, design and other creative industries, where he said there is huge potential. The export potential of the country’s automotive sector and of its continued contribution to developing emerging businesses through its value chain was also highlighted through the investments in the sector. “We welcome that investment in infrastructure and logistics and property and telecommunications, which
United Kingdom.
“These investments will
Several investments were
will help expand the capac-
The African Development
give us the capacity to
also made in metal fabrica-
ity of our economy and im-
Bank pledged R42.5 billion
not only contribute to the
tion and steel, vanadium,
prove its competitiveness.
over the next five years, to
economy, but also to be
aluminium and other manu-
support public and private
able to contribute to job
facturing plants.
in agriculture - our oldest
sector investments in the
creation, tax, excise and
“These contribute to our
industry - and investment
priority areas of agriculture,
procurement spend,” said
ongoing effort to add value
in the digital economy - our
renewable energy, trans-
SAB Chief Executive Officer
to the minerals that we
newest,” added the Presi-
port, youth employment,
Richard Rivett-Carnac.
mine and to create jobs
dent.
health and vaccines manu-
“We have seen investment
President Ramaphosa
that would otherwise have
said commitments were
gone to more industrialised
“We know South Africa
made for renewable energy
countries.”
is bankable,” said African
projects, and plants based
Commitments were made
Development Bank Group
in South Africa will build
those to produce vaccines
by companies from South
President Dr Akinwumi
some of the components to
and other pharmaceuticals,
Africa, Belgium, Canada,
Adesina.
be used in these projects.
both for South Africa and
“From biogas to solar,
the continent; infrastruc-
Global commitments
China, Czech Republic,
facturing, among others.
South African Breweries
Other investments include
Finland, France, Germany,
(SAB) pledged a further
from wind to battery stor-
ture and logistics; property
Ireland, Mauritius, Norway,
R920 million into its Pros-
age, these investments are
and telecommunications;
Pakistan, Sweden, Turkey,
pecton and Ibhayi brewer-
at the cutting edge of one of
agriculture and the digital
United Arab Emirates,
ies, ramping up its total
the most important growth
economy.
United States and the
commitment to R4.5 billion.
industries in South Africa.”
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
27
Source: SAnews
FEATURE
Transforming the marketing, advertising and communication sector
I
n an effort to match
cil has been tasked with
head from time to time in
the investment drive led
the success of other
broadening the meaning-
ways that set back the way
by the President [Cyril
countries in redressing
ful participation of black
South Africans feel about
Ramaphosa] with a target
economic imbalances in a
people, women, youth and
themselves and the way
of R1.2 trillion in domestic
digital and multiplatform
people with disabilities
in which we relate to one
and international invest-
environment, government
in the sector - not just as
another as citizens of this
ment in a five-year period
recently launched the
consumers but also as
country,” he said.
that began in 2018,” Minis-
Marketing, Advertising and
entrepreneurs.
Communications (MAC) SA Charter Sector Council.
According to Minister
tor transformation of
Progressive partnerships
The council will moni-
ter Gungubele said. The council has representatives from academia,
the sector by facilitating
The council is tasked with
the regulator, marketers,
in the Presidency Mondli
the implementation of
building progressive part-
women, youth, and people
Gungubele, through the
the Broad-Based Black
nerships that will unleash
with disability, public rela-
MAC Charter Council,
Economic Empowerment
the creative abilities of pro-
tions institutes, organised
South Africa will focus
(B-BBEE) sector code.
fessionals and technically
labour, outdoor media,
skilled people in this sector
industry associations and interactive marketers.
its attention on eco-
“Although we have made
nomic growth and the key
great strides since the
and change the sector and
problems affecting the
advent of our democratic
society for the better.
economy.
dispensation, we still do
“This is the transforma-
It functions independently and the annual transfor-
see sexism, racism and
tion agenda for the MAC
mation report it produces
the council in Pretoria, the
other offences of the
sector – alongside its
is processed through the
Minister said the coun-
Constitution rearing their
potential to contribute to
Government Communi-
Addressing the launch of
28
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
Minister in the Presidency Mondli Gungubele and GCIS DG Phumla Williams with members of the Marketing, Advertising and Communications SA Charter Sector Council.
cation and Information System (GCIS).
Review of the 2016 MAC sector code “One of the first duties of
Minister said. The revised code will ensure that the sector can
people with disabilities,”
of young entrepreneurs
he added.
who are pursuing their
The Minister said the
dreams by establishing
be measured with yard-
gazetting of the code will
sticks that apply to MAC,
be a monument to the
instead of the generic
sterling work that the
provinces need a hand up
code.
council is expected to do
and it is for this reason that
as it contributes in making
this council includes four
the future work.
young people with suit-
MAC businesses. “Young people in all
the council is to review
“The advantage of a
and align the 2016 MAC
sector specific code is
sector code based on the
that it brings regulatory
new requirements issued
certainty and enables the
Africans – who are worst
serve as alternative mem-
by the Department of
sector to maximise its
affected by unemploy-
bers,” Minister Gungubele
Trade, Industry and Com-
transformative impact by
ment - to benefit from the
said.
petition (the dtic) in 2019.
“We expect young South
able qualifications who will
focusing on opening up
Enterprise and Supplier
“I want the council to
participation in the sector
Development element of
tion of the council speaks
complete this by no later
for designated groups that
this Code. South Africa
to the goal of inclusivity
than January 2023,” the
include women, youth and
does not have a shortage
and transformation.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
He added that composi-
29
TRAVEL
Writer: Duane Stacey Images: Duane Stacey and Anthony Speirs
Majestic and magical Matroosberg
M
atroosberg is a
Cold front
that read: “Peak of Adven-
mountain with
One of the fiercer cold
ture”. There was no other
a certain air of
fronts ripped through
car in sight.
mystery and magic. As one
the Western Cape, but
The receptionist, sur-
nears the mountain along
we were ready with our
prised by our enquiry to
the N1 highway a sailor
thermal gear, tents and ski
camp, tried in vain to point
(matroos in Afrikaans) and
pants. The car was packed
us in the direction of some
his ship seem to emerge
with enough cold-weather
quaint cabins, but recog-
from the rock formation,
gear (and treats) to sur-
nised we were dressed for
hence its name.
vive whatever conditions
adventure and wished us
the mountain would throw
well.
At 2 249m, it is one of the highest mountains in
By now, the usual hiking
As we headed through
pathway to the summit
tracts adventurers from all
the valley, our windscreen
was covered in snow so
walks of life.
wipers screeched into
we elected to take the
Hiking, abseiling, fish-
overdrive, and tried its
wider 4x4 path. It was
ing and trail running are
best to repel the relentless
steep and rocky but the
all part of the adventure
downpour that battered
fresh covering of powder
package in the summer
our car and added to the
and continued snowfall
months.
nervous energy exhaled
reminded me of past Euro-
However, it was the
from inside onto the
pean snow adventures, as
winter adventure that
rapidly fogging wind-
the trees stood covered in
gripped our attention, hav-
screen. But then there
their best white suits.
ing seen pictures of this
was silence. We ascended
icy wonderland from years
another corner and the
we made our way up to-
gone by.
pelting rain transformed to
wards the summit. It was
candy floss, tossed about
tough going: the depth of
cated an approaching cold
by the swish of the blades
snow climbed towards our
spell. With plenty of rain
confirming we had timed
knees, and it was evident
and -12°C predicted on the
this adventure perfectly.
that a hike of 7km was
Weather reports indi-
Matroosberg summit, we went in search of snow.
30
our way.
the Western Cape and at-
At the front gate, we were greeted by a sign
Snow continued to fall as
going to take us far longer than anticipated.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
up camp for the night on
transformed overnight by
the path, about 700m short
the heavy snowfall. I stood,
of the summit. With a bit of
mouth agape, at the beauty
protection from the wind, a
which was below.
flat surface and incredible
It was not long before we
views, this was the spot we
heard two snowboarders
called home for the night.
gearing up to take on the
The blustery wind
slopes. Just below us was
dropped a little, but so did
the Ski Club of South Africa,
the temperature, and those
whose members have been
earlier predictions of -12°C
skiing on Matroosberg since
degrees felt very accurate.
1935. It was evident that
A warm concoction of
the news of snow hit Cape
cheese, noodles and salami
Town as we packed up and
helped a little but even that
began the arduous journey
body warmth soon wore off
back to reception and in the
as the reality of sleeping on
opposite direction of the
a giant ice block set in.
crowds flocking towards the
It was a bitterly cold and
summit.
long night which stretched late into the morning. We collapsed in the snow
which was testament to our
Neither of us dared to
to devour some lunch and
toil. Back on our feet, we
move from the tent until the
took in the glory of this
trudged along the contour,
midmorning sun breached
magical winter wonderland.
leaving nothing but a path-
the mountain tops and the
It was an extended break,
way of footprints.
thin film of ice began to
as time seemed to slow
The fading winter light
thaw from our flysheet.
down just for us to enjoy
mimicked our energy
views back down the valley.
levels and we compiled. We
finally encouraged me out
Yet, it felt all too temporary,
stopped immediately to set
of the tent and in to a world
Freshly brewed coffee
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: It can get cold; really cold. Make sure you pack enough thermals and snow gear to ensure you stay warm. Snow is wet, we sometimes forget that, so a change of clothes is very important. There are numerous accommodation options for those who visit without a tent. You can book online: www.matroosberg.com. Klondyke Cherry Farm is just outside the Matroosberg reserve, covered in snow these trees are glamorous, but in cherry season they are dotted with cherries ripe for the picking.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
31
GROOMING AND ST YLE
Fashion f lashback: Retro style pieces making a comeback
F
ashion has a way of reinventing itself and evolving, borrowing silhouettes from bygone eras and reimagining them as contemporary fashion pieces that embody a sense of classic style. Have your eye on what’s on trend this year? You may be pleasantly surprised to see a few golden oldies on our list.
The return of the denim dungaree Denim dungarees were a closet staple in the 70s, but it’s 2022 and they’re back for their share of the spotlight. This year you’ll find long-sleeved versions, cropped styles and full-length renditions kitted out with pockets, mini belts and shirt-style collars. If you’re not a traditionalist when it comes to trends, you’ll find alternatives like cotton overalls and linen jumpsuits on shelves this year. The bottom line is that one-pieces are back and they’re here to stay. Dress them up, dress them down, but whatever you do, get the trend – it’s bound to keep reappearing. One-piece Suit Gillian – Open Blue, MANGO at Superbalist, R1 499.
Clogs – but more contemporary Clogs have a bulky silhouette that keeps reincarnating itself through the years. In the 90s we saw the return of conventional clogs in leather and suede. In the noughties, we saw them return with studs and embellishments. And this year, we’re getting a whole new perspective on this footwear trend, reimagined by Crocs in a patented material called Croslite™. With these clogs, you get the best of both worlds – the height and the bulkiness that is oh-so-in-fashion as well as the lightweight form and a key comfortability factor. Coca-Cola Crocs Bae Women Clog, Crocs South Africa, R1199.95. * Prices correct at the time of publishing.
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Public Sector Manager • April 2022
Who doesn’t love a scrunchie? Before there were butterfly clips, there were crocodile clips, and before those, there were scrunchies. In the 90s, you’d find scrunchies in a range of different fabrics from satin and silk, to canvas and cotton. Today, there are several ways to get your hands on one (or two) of these retro hair accessories. The great thing about scrunchies is that most of them are machine washable. They’re also kinder on hair and help to prevent frizz and split ends. Keep your eyes open for local artisans and seamstresses who are making their mark in the fashion space with the introduction of their own take on this classic accessory. Nuvé, scrunchie, R50.
Say hello to bucket hats Bucket hats are back. And thank goodness for that. South Africans have laid their own claim to these fashion must-haves, which make popular streetwear accessories. Due to its flexible shape, a bucket hat is an accessory that you can really make your own. Flip it up at the front, flare the rim out, add a brooch or pin. There are so many ways to customise this vintage favourite. The limited edition we’ve chosen is sustainably handmade in South Africa and made from hand-painted, 100% cotton canvas. Water colour bucket hat: Limited Edition, FREYA HATS, R499.
* Prices correct at the time of publishing.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
33
GROOMING AND ST YLE
Cargo pants are back in action Military-style cargo pants were all the rage in the 90s. In 2022, we see cargo pants returning but with a somewhat more subtle aesthetic. Feel free to go camouflage, but if you’re into keeping things understated, there are a few options that say “utilitarian, but with an edge.” The more zips, pockets and embroidered detailing, the better. You can wear your cargo with a casual shirt or keep it classic with a white T-shirt. Add a neck or arm accessory and you’ll be ready to conquer the crowds. Zippy cargo relaxed tapered pants, G-STAR RAW, R4 199.
Bell bottoms; or are they? It’s very rare to find someone who hasn’t owned a pair of bell bottoms – or a variation on this evergreen trend. Bell bottoms take us way back to the 70s, where the “bells” kept getting bigger. In 2022, we’re seeing this trend re-emerge but in a slightly more subtle way. You won’t find the word, “bell bottoms” used too often, but you will find “fit-and-flare,” or “flare” jeans that pay homage to this funky silhouette. It’s the next evolution of the 70s bell bottom and it’s staking its claim to fame on runways across the world. If you can get a pair that’s high-waisted, that’s a double win. ZW The ‘90s Wide-Leg Jeans, Zara South Africa, R799.
Puffer jackets have come around again Heading into the colder months, fashion is getting bigger and bulkier. If you have an old puffer jacket hanging in your closet, now’s the time to dust it off and put it on. Puffer jackets are super warm and comfortable, but also lightweight, which makes them perfect for outdoor adventures. Puffers have come a long way over the past decade or two. Now you’ll find puffer jackets crafted by advanced technology to provide insulation without adding bulk or weight, making them weather-ready and perfect for fireside chats. Paris Saint-Germain men’s puffer jacket, Nike South Africa, R3 699.95. * Prices correct at the time of publishing.
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Public Sector Manager • April 2022
What will the neighbours say?
There is no excuse for abuse. Police: 10111 Stop Gender Violence: 0800 150 150 Childline: 0800 055 555
People can only help if they know. TELL SOMEONE.
Violence and abuse are poison to society. Let’s make it stop.
Public Sector Manager • April 2022
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