PSM APRIL 2023

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

APRIL 2023

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Ismail Momoniat on keeping SA public finances safe

Nokuthula Selamolela empowering women in the FoodBev sector

APRIL 2023

Celebrating FreedomMonth

Contents: April 2023

30

REGULARS

velopment key to improved service delivery

8. Conversations with leaders

34. Addressing electricity

National Treasury keeping

challenges

SA finances safe

Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa dives deep into SA’s power stations

12. Women in the public sector

Nokuthula Selamolela is

36. Analysing senior manage-

empowering women in the

8

food and beverage sector 16. Trailblazer

Generating clean audits for the City of Ekurhuleni is Kagiso Lerutla’s goal

18. Profiles in leadership

Mosalanyane Mosala is leading the Information Regulator through the Batho Pele principles

FEATURES 24. Human Settlements

climate crisis through global collaboration 26. Using competency frameworks to build a capable

sponse

state

gramme opening doors for young people

2

Supporting senior managers for public service efficiency 38. Government leaders discuss innovation in the

communities faster in their

achieve public service

time of need

excellence?

International conference highlights new approaches to service delivery

How do we measure and 40. Public-private partnership ensures water supply in Northern Cape

22. From the Union Buildings Work experience pro-

Public Service

Public Service

speeds up disaster reGovernment is reaching

ment performance in the

24. Use practical wisdom in climate change actions Finding solutions to the

32. Upscaling eLearning in the public sector

Advanced professional de-

Changing lives through the Vaal-Gamagara Water Supply Scheme

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

32

12

LIFESTYLE

48

46. Grooming and style

How to prepare your skin for the fall season

48. Food and wine

Chef Leigh-Ann Modise’s recipe for a delightful beef tenderloin

50. Travel

MSC Orchestra Sea Cruise worth the hype

16 42 Action plan lends a hand to building a better SA

Combating racism and xenophobia 44 Buy locally manufactured products

Local entrepreneurs are boosting the economy

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

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

Acting Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Tasneem Carrim Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Regomoditswe Mavimbela Acting Head of Editorial and Production Zanele Mngadi Zanelemngadi@gcis.gov.za

Acting Director-General Michael Currin

Managing Editor Tshepo Nkosi tshepon@gcis.gov.za

Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Nomonde Mnukwa

News Editor Miriam Mokoena miriam@gcis.gov.za

GCIS Photographic Unit Elmond Jiyane Ntswe Mokoena Siyabulela Duda Kopano Tlape Busisiwe Malungwane Production Assistants Jauhara Khan | Sebastion Palmer Graphic Designers Tendai Gonese | Benny Kubjana

3

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Collaboration is key

to economic reforms I

t has been two years since

The report notes that two

a transport economic regulator,

President Cyril Ramaphosa an-

years into the programme, the

reform the electricity sector, and

nounced the establishment of

initiative has paved the way for

establish a National Water Re-

Operation Vulindlela to drive a far-

private investment in electricity

sources Infrastructure Agency.

reaching economic reform agenda

generation for the first time, with

Implementing accelerated eco-

for South Africa, thus shifting our

reforms underway to establish

nomic reforms will ensure energy

economic growth trajectory and

a competitive electricity market;

security, reducing red tape and

enabling investment and ultimate-

cleared the backlog of water-

lower the cost of doing business

ly, job creation.

use licences and re-engineered

through improved transport and

The primary role of the initiative

the licence application system,

communication infrastructure.

is to monitor progress on priority

unlocking billions of Rand in

The report further outlines

reforms while providing support,

investment; and ended a more

where necessary, to accelerate

than 10-year delay in the auction

Michael Currin, Acting GCIS Director-General.

that “the cumulative effect of these gains is compounded over

their implementation.

of high-demand spectrum, ena-

The operation is a joint initiative

bling substantial new investment

of The Presidency and National

in telecommunications.

operations; undertaking a com-

mestic product above the 2022

Treasury to timeously drive the

With some reforms having

prehensive review of the work

Medium Term Budget Policy

implementation of structural

been completed, the initiative

visa system, with recommenda-

Statement baseline by a cumula-

reforms in support of economic

has added four new priority

tions to overhaul the system and

tive R438 billion by 2030”.

recovery. It aims, among other

reforms, including creating an

attract skills and investment; and

Operation Vulindlela is a

things, to modernise and trans-

appropriate legislative framework

publishing a new critical skills list

typical example of the power of

form network industries, includ-

for hemp and cannabis, enabling

for the first time since 2014, with

collaboration in ensuring that

ing electricity, water, transport

the devolution of passenger rail

new occupations in information

government delivers its promises

and digital communications.

functions to local government, ti-

technology and other sectors

to the people of South Africa.

According to the 2022/23 Q3

tling reform for low-cost housing

with a skills deficit.

As President Cyril Ramaphosa

Progress Report for Operation

and the development of a fit-for-

The report further highlights

proclaimed in his 2023 State of

Vulindlela, a strong collaborative

purpose procurement regime for

that Operation Vulindlela also

the Nation Address: “If we work

approach between implement-

state-owned entities.

adopted a new National Rail

together and act boldly and deci-

ing departments and Opera-

Other Operation Vulindlela

Policy to guide the modernisa-

sively, leaving no one behind, we

tion Vulindlela has resulted in

achievements include facilitating

tion and reform of the rail sector,

will be able to resolve our chal-

a number of significant policy

the introduction of private sector

including the introduction of

lenges”. May we put on our boots

shifts that will enable accelerated

participation in container termi-

third-party access to the rail

of service delivery and continue

and more inclusive growth in the

nals, to crowd in investment and

network; developed and secured

to serve the masses of South

years ahead.

improve the efficiency of port

passage of legislation to create

Africa with distinction.

4

the long term, raising potential growth and lifting real gross do-

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

EDITORIAL

With freedom

comes responsibility

O

Republic of South Africa, 1996.

n 27 April 1994, South Africa held its first national

As we approached Freedom

democratic elections,

Month, some public sector work-

ending years of discrimination,

ers’ unions embarked on strike

apartheid, segregation, colonial-

actions for salary increments. In

ism and repressive labour policies.

some instances, these actions

It was a memorable noteworthy

turned violent as those who

event for the previously margin-

chose to exercise their right to

alised who had been denied the

strike blocked those who did not

grand opportunity to cast their

want to participate, resulting in

vote over the years.

loss of life in some health facili-

For the millions of voters who

as it needed to urgently ad-

impediments to South Africa’s

ties. On this note, it is important

courageously braved the long,

dress these socio-economic

goal of national unity and social

to remember that while we

winding queues on that day, the

challenges. This prompted and

cohesion, as outlined in the

exercise our rights, we should

day represented hope – an end

necessitated the introduction of

National Development Plan. The

not violate those of others. Illegal

to suffering.

intervention measures such as

current electricity challenges

protests, destruction of property,

While the day marked the dawn

the Reconstruction and Develop-

are also fueling this, as many

infringement of other people’s

of democracy, where all people

ment Programme – an inte-

people are losing their sources of

rights, intimidation, violence and

were to equally enjoy human and

grated, coherent socio-economic

income and jobs.

damage to infrastructure are

citizen rights, government in-

policy framework that sought to

This calls for public servants

criminal activities that can result

herited one of the most unequal

mobilise the country's resources

to be more focused on serving

in arrests.

societies in the world, with the

towards the final eradication of

the citizens of South Africa, now

Peaceful and legal protests are

majority living in extreme pover-

apartheid. The programme was

more than ever before. Let us not

good for democracy and can be

ty while the minority owned the

inspired by the dire need to build

forget the hard times endured by

used to make our voices heard.

vast share of wealth and means

a democratic, non-racial and

many before 1994. The freedom

Our democracy offers many av-

of production.

non-sexist future.

we enjoy today came at a high

enues for people or communities

The multitude of South Africans

As we celebrate these historic

cost, with many losing their lives

to address their grievances.

were excluded in almost all

elections this Freedom Month,

– it was indeed not free. Let us

Let us celebrate Freedom

aspects of basic services and

we must recognise the progress

continue to serve community

Month responsibly, keeping in

benefits, including economy,

made in improving the lives of

members responsibly with dili-

mind our pledge to serve the

education, electricity, health

South Africans while review-

gence and compassion.

people of South Africa and

and basic human rights during

ing what still needs to be done.

Democracy brought with it

become agents of change who

apartheid rule.

The triple challenge of inequal-

rights for all, and among them,

forge a disciplined, innovative,

This meant more work for

ity, poverty and unemployment

the right to strike, which is pro-

people-centred and professional

the democratic government

remains one of the most glaring

tected by the Constitution of the

public service.

6

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Writer: Sihle Manda

CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADERS

Pictures: GCIS

National Treasury keeping SA finances safe H

olding the country’s

cy, accountability and sound

purse strings can some-

financial controls in the man-

times feel like a master-

agement of public finances.

ful act that requires immense

While the country’s eco-

dexterity.

nomic growth prospects were,

That is if the Public Sec-

over the past decade, stunted

tor Manager’s (PSM) recent

by a myriad of ill-fated events,

conversation with the Acting

inroads have been made in

Director-General (ADG) of the

recent years to reverse the

National Treasury, Ismail Mo-

losses.

moniat, is anything to go by.

“This year, government will

In a candid wide-ranging

achieve a main budget pri-

interview, the veteran of 28

mary surplus – meaning that

years at 40 Church Square,

revenue exceeds non-interest

lays out in intimate detail the

spending – for the first time

economic and financial quag-

since 2008/09. Next year, the

mire the country is attempting

consolidated budget deficit

to extricate itself from.

will narrow to 4% of [gross

The quandaries range from

domestic product] GDP – the

the debilitating stages of load

lowest since 2019/20,” Momo-

shedding, the recent grey

niat wrote in the 2023 Budget

listing by the Financial Action

Review.

Task Force (FATF), corruption

8

and soaring debt levels.

A balancing act

All these featured promi-

Expanding on this to PSM,

nently when Finance Minister

he said National Treasury

Enoch Godongwana delivered

achieved this by being “really

the 2023 Budget in February

disciplined” on expenditure

2023.

growth “without getting to

Chapter 13 of the Constitu-

austerity”.

tion of the Republic of South

“It is a challenge on the

Africa, 1996 mandates National

finance side because we

Treasury to ensure transparen-

actually need to spend less

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

than what we raise as revenue

parts of Gauteng. KwaZulu-

sa and Minister Godongwana

was to at least get Eskom in a

and not be borrowing for our

Natal was again the scene

dedicating significant portions of

healthy financial shape to be

debt-servicing needs. And in

when devastating floods struck

the State of the Nation Address

able to borrow and operate

fact, if you see debt servicing

in April 2022. The latter two

(SoNA) and the Budget, respec-

financially,” Momoniat explained.

(costs), it is projected now to be

events claimed hundreds of lives

tively, to address the energy cri-

Momoniat believes that the

our largest spending item,” he

and left a trail of infrastructure

sis, the magnitude of the emer-

economy is resilient enough to

elaborated.

damage amounting to billions of

gency is not lost on government.

withstand future pressures.

Momoniat warned that if gov-

Rand that required government

President Ramaphosa described

“Some of the issues, like floods,

ernment does not stabilise this

intervention.

the energy crisis as “an exis-

are related to climate change

expenditure item, “debt-to-GDP

Matters were, in March 2023,

tential threat” to the country’s

and I think that all countries

will continue to increase”.

compounded when the GDP for

economy and social fabric. Chief

need to prepare for the eventu-

“How we stabilise is what the

the last three months of 2022

among the interventions was the

ality of more [natural] disasters

markets watch. It is an important

revealed that the country’s

appointment of the Electricity

that we will have to deal with.

indicator of our financial health,”

economy shrunk by a stagger-

Minister in March 2023.

The other challenges are more

he added.

ing 1.6% during this period. The

“Fixing Eskom is only part of

political, he said.

With many government depart-

three months coincided with

the problem. Electricity doesn’t

“If the economy doesn’t grow;

ments and entities not growing

unprecedented levels of power

equal Eskom,” said Momoniat.

there will be more and more

anywhere near what they should

outages.

“Let’s get electricity – which

potential for unrest. How do

be, Momoniat emphasised that

“The issue of power cuts is

you can get within Eskom but

we deal with it? Well, by firstly

achieving this had been “quite

absolutely urgent and by far the

also outside of Eskom – but we

saying, fiscally we will be stable.

an achievement” that involved

most important objective, not

spend time on fixing Eskom.

It’s not as much of a money

trade-offs.

just for [National] Treasury but

They need to run the power

problem.

He explained that a large caus-

for the whole of government and

plants better, even as they plan

al factor of this predicament was

the economy,” he explained.

for the future. Two; we are mak-

government tending to spend

Reflecting on this, Momoniat

ing big structural forms in the

Corruption and state capture

more on recurring expenses,

said: “We are going to be shrink-

electricity sector by splitting

“When you look at the floods,

such as public servant wages,

ing as an economy because

transmission, generation and

our problem is corruption has

rather than growth enhancing

many economic activities [if

distribution.”

become so entrenched in South

expenditure, such infrastructure

they] don’t have electricity, they

In the Budget presentation,

Africa that it becomes more of

projects and maintenance.

won’t be able to function.”

National Treasury proposed to

‘how do we deal with the dam-

Obstacles

Dealing with load shedding, he

provide the country’s embattled

age of the floods? How quickly

reiterated, was “by far the most

power utility with R254 billion

do you repair the infrastructure?

Along the way, National Treas-

important obstacle that govern-

in debt relief over the next three

Can you make sure that the

ury has had to be at the fiscal

ment was currently seized with.”

years. Of this, R168 billion will be

money is not stolen? Can we

forefront of fending off curve-

“It affects everything; whether

in capital while R86 billion will

make sure that there is urgent

balls thrown in government’s

we are able to produce; whether

be in interest.

support for the families that

direction. Significant head-

we are able to trade; whether

“Eskom as an institution has

get displaced and how you

winds arose in the form of the

people have jobs People suffer.

no capacity to raise funds from

help them?’ Then there are less

COVID-19 pandemic. This was

Everything gets disrupted,” said

the market when it wants more

urgent issues that are equally

followed by the July 2021 civil

Momoniat.

money to buy diesel, they can’t

important. Can the bridges and

unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and

With President Cyril Ramapho-

borrow. What we had to do

roads repaired, etc.,” he said.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

9

CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADERS

The ADG is of the view that some of the challenges could be avoided by having functional and proactive systems in place.

“It is about making the state agile so we can respond quicker and more efficiently on one hand.

When it comes to something like the insurrection; that too reflected a lot of other failures like that our police system wasn’t working. The police couldn’t defend the communities, those people whose shops were looted, they couldn’t protect their communities”.

international standards for the

of the country illustrating that

happy... What worked before may

He attributed the dysfunc-

combating of money launder-

there were consequences for

not work today. The question is:

tional state of some government

ing and other serious financial

corruption, saying this was in the

how do we continuously improve

departments and agencies to the

crimes – a development Na-

interest South Africa.

the way things work?”.

years of State Capture.

tional Treasury was anticipating.

Despite being at National

“They weakened the police,

“We tried very hard to prevent

Treasury for almost three dec-

they weakened the prosecut-

it. We really succeeded in reduc-

ades, Momoniat has no plans of

Empowering future leaders

ing agencies. By the way, that

ing the number of action steps

slowing down.

One of the things Momoniat is

led to things like grey listing.

from like 67 recommended ac-

“We’ve changed things for the

proud of is that they have man-

Our institutions were broken.

tion steps to about eight,” Momo-

better; the country is on a higher

aged to empower and build a

The performance is not up to

niat revealed. “We knew we were

economic growth; succeeded

team of younger leaders to take

standards expected internation-

going to fail but we were trying

in reducing poverty; to have

National Treasury into the future.

ally,” he said.

to reduce the number of things

empowered more people”.

“I feel proud that I’ve been

In this regard, while the phe-

that we still needed to continue

From a governmental perspec-

part of a process [where we

nomenon reached its worst point

with. We think we can succeed

tive, he is confident that institu-

grew our] own talent within the

in 2018, “corruption certainly

in dealing with in about one or

tions are working well and are

organisation. I’m really proud of

didn’t stop,” he decried.

one-and-a-half years”.

better placed to meet future

my colleagues who are much

While malfeasance was “sys-

While he feels the task was a

challenges.

younger than me and who are

tematic” under state capture, it

tall order, he is confident that the

Government is, however, in the

going to lead into the future,” he

was more a question of brazen

objective is attainable.

process clawing back losses,

said.

syndicates daring to be caught.

“Some of the things, like our

adding that more needs to be

Despite this, he said challenges

capability to get more investiga-

done to ensure that the country

were much harder than the

tions, more prosecutions etc.,

keeps up with the ever-changing

challenges the initial post-1994

In February 2023, the FATF

is going to be a challenge,” he

financial sector.

National Treasury had to contend

placed the country on the grey

conceded.

list for falling short of certain

He reiterated the importance

Grey listing

10

“I don’t like to think back on

with.

what we’ve achieved and be

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

12

Writer: More Matshediso

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Selamolela

empowers women in the FoodBev sector C

hief Executive Officer

CEO in 2018, Selamolela took a

Recognition

our sector are multinational, so

(CEO) of the Food and

conscious decision to empower

Selamolela’s transformative

they need to understand who

Beverages Manufacturing

women in the sector. This came

efforts were recognised during

we are and what we can do for

Sector Education and Training

after realising that the majority

the 2022 Standard Bank Top

them. We have about 500 com-

Authority (FoodBev SETA), No-

of manufacturers in the sector

Women Awards when she got

panies that are large, about 300

kuthula Selamolela, is on a mission

were male, while women were

nominated for the Top Women

to 400 that are medium, and

to transform the male-dominated

not well represented.

Leader in the Public Sector and

about 92% of our companies

food and beverages manufactur-

She believes that for the sector

Top Gender-Empowered Or-

are small businesses,” she says.

ing sector – to ensure that women

to be transformed, it has to start

ganisation in the Public Sector

The big companies in the sec-

enjoy the fruits of equality.

within the SETA.

categories. She won the latter.

tor include Coca-Cola Bever-

The FoodBev SETA is one

“We could not have a male-led

“It meant a lot to me and my

ages South Africa, Tiger Brands

of the 21 SETAs across the

SETA that needs to transform

team because I would not have

Limited and the Parmalat

South African economy that are

the male-dominated sector. I

achieved this without the team

Group.

mandated to put the National

had to ensure that more women

that I lead. It showed that noth-

Skills Development Strategy into

get opportunities and that at

ing is impossible, especially for

Career path

practice. It promotes, facilitates

least 50% of our board members

a woman like me who grew up

Selamolela joined the authority

and stimulates skills develop-

are women. This is not because

in Umlazi Township in KwaZulu-

in 2013 as the Chief Financial

ment in the food and beverages

we do not care about men,

Natal where there were not

Officer (CFO) and was imme-

manufacturing sector.

but we are just creating equal

many opportunities for women

diately appointed as the Acting

“We are in the middle of the

opportunities for women,” says

and girls in the past decades,”

CEO.

food and beverages value

Selamolela.

says the CEO.

“I really had no aspirations of

chain... between the agricultural

As a result, the SETA is now

She adds that being rec-

becoming the CEO of the SETA

input and the retail side. Our

women-led with the majority of

ognised by Standard Bank is

at the time. A new CEO was

core focus is to facilitate training

employees being women, and

special to the SETA because

appointed in 2014 but did not

in the food and beverage manu-

Selamolela is proud to have

it intends to become a global

stay long in the position. I was

facturing space,” she explains.

achieved that in less than five

brand.

again appointed as the Acting

Since her appointment as

years.

“Most of the big companies in

CEO from 2014 to 2018 before

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

13

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

whatever reason and it was only

different outputs that cut across

myself, the Senior Specialist and

different programmes, and that

everyone else was acting. It was

emanates from our sector skills

just too much for me, and the

plan, where we find out what our

public sector was not really my

priorities are and add them to

thing at the time. So, I did not

our strategic plan, and then we

want to stay,” she explains.

implement them in the Annual

Ten years later, and now at the

Performance Plan,” she explains.

helm of the authority, Selam-

She is entrusted with ensuring

olela’s passion about improving

that her team of executives de-

people’s lives rather than chas-

liver on the strategy. Selamolela

ing profits in the private sector is

says the SETA has about 80

keeping her going.

employees and mainly operates

Just like her wealth of work-

from the head office.

ing experience, her educa-

“We have satellites in three

tional background puts her at

TVET (Technical and Vocational

an advantage of leading the

Education and Training) col-

SETA. She obtained a Bachelor

leges and we are planning to

of Commerce (BCom) in Ac-

open three more during this new

counting from the North-West

financial year. We do not have

University and a BCom Honours

branches in other provinces be-

in Accounting from the Univer-

cause technology also enables

sity of KwaZulu-Natal.

us to engage with our stakehold-

She completed her Master’s in

ers anywhere in the world. The

my appointment as the CEO,”

I then became a consultant

Development Finance from the

majority of our stakeholders are

she explains.

after resigning from Swiftnet.

Graduate School of Business,

concentrated in the Western

Her career started as an As-

Throughout my career, I built

University of Cape Town, and

Cape and Gauteng, followed by

sistant Accountant at Tongaat

networks and many people

recently completed a Senior Ex-

KwaZulu-Natal, mainly because

Hulett. She then completed her

called me to assist their compa-

ecutive Programme Africa with

these are the hubs of manufac-

articles at Vodacom, and moved

nies with advisory services,” she

Harvard University.

turing,” explains Selamolela.

to the Independent Communica-

says.

The CEO’s wish is to leave

tions Authority of South Africa to

She decided to get back to

Being a CEO

behind a legacy of empowering

work as a Senior Finance Man-

the job market in 2013, when

“Basically, my role as the CEO is

people through different skills,

ager. She was later appointed as

government introduced cost

to strategically lead the organi-

including ensuring that women

the CFO at Swiftnet.

containment measures because

sation. We develop a five-year

are ready to be future leaders,

“I started working at the age of

getting clients for her consultan-

strategic plan that envisions

enabling youth to get in the

21 years. I got tired and decided

cy work was becoming difficult.

where we want to see ourselves

industry and to ensure that she

to take a break because I felt

“When I joined the SETA,

at the end of the term, and in

leaves the SETA better than it

like I had been working forever.

all the managers had left for

those five years, we have got

was when she joined it.

14

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Writer: More Matshediso

TRAILBLAZER

Generating clean audits for the City of Ekurhuleni T o build public confidence the City of Ekurhuleni,

the metro’s Group Chief

Financial Officer (GCFO) Kagiso

Lerutla’s top priority is to achieve clean audits.

At the time of his appointment, about four years ago, Lerutla made headlines as the youngest GCFO in the city at the age of 33. He grabbed the opportunity and proved that young people can become great leaders when given an opportunity.

Through his leadership and hard work, the city has been achieving clean audit reports since 2020/21. In 2021/22, Ekurhuleni was the only metro in Gauteng to achieve a clean audit, reporting zero wasteful, irregular and fruitless expenditure.

“All we have been asking for as

set the best example to show

sional, shows exactly that,” says

chain management, expenditure

young people are opportunities.

that it is possible to become a

Lerutla, beaming with pride.

cost management, financial

When I got appointed into this

leader while you are still young,

The 36-year-old now heads

management, treasury and

position, I told myself that I will

and my track record, as a profes-

four divisions, including supply

revenue.

16

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

“When I got appointed into this position, I told myself that I will set the best example to show that it is possible to become a leader while you are still young, and my track record, as a professional, shows exactly that”.

Skills transfer

service to our residents, the city

people are capable of excelling

ticipating in various professional

“Because I want to transfer the

is able to attract more investors

in leadership positions,” he says.

forums, including the Chief

leadership skills that I possess, I

and increase employment op-

The young GCFO believes that

Financial Officers’ Forum and the

always look for ways to empower

portunities for locals through the

for local government to regain

Finance MEC Forum in Gauteng.

the heads of divisions that report

projects and programmes that

confidence and trust from the

Born and raised in Sekhuk-

to me so that they can become

we initiate,” he adds.

public, government should be

hune, Limpopo, he attributes his

future GCFOs. My team is mostly

In the last financial year, the

professionalised and that people

success and motivation to his

led by young people, and one

city had a budget of R50 billion

with the right qualifications must

background and education.

of the divisions' head is younger

and he says approximately the

be hired and be given opportu-

than me. I believe that young

same amount will be budgeted

nities regardless of their race,

people should be given a chance

for the 2023/24 financial year.

gender and age.

Rising through the ranks

to lead because they are capa-

With his exceptional financial

His advice to public servants,

He obtained a Bachelor of Com-

ble,” he says.

management skills and dedica-

especially those at local-govern-

merce (BCom) from the Uni-

He gives all heads of divisions

tion to transparency, Lerutla’s

ment level, is that they should

versity of Limpopo in 2008 and

an opportunity to practise their

story serves as a great inspira-

always remember that they work

a BCom Accounting Honours

knowledge and leadership skills

tion to young and upcoming

for the people of South Africa.

degree from the University of

by ensuring that they act as

public finance professionals

“We should not forget where

Johannesburg in 2009.

GCFOs and always encourages

and students alike. In a time

we come from as a country. We

He acquired his training and

them to have an overall under-

where financial scandals and

are here to serve and we must

articles to qualify as a chartered

standing of how the organisation

mismanagement run rampant in

always give our best. If we forget

accountant from the Auditor-

works.

local government, his story is a

where we come from, we can

General of South Africa, before

refreshing testimony to integrity

easily lose all that we have built

joining the company as an as-

in the Public Service.

in the past three decades,” he

sistant audit manager. In 2013,

says.

Lerutla became a member of the

“We must always be guided

South African Institute of Char-

Achieving clean audits Lerutla explains that his secret

Recognition

in fighting corruption, fraud and

His hard work led to his nomina-

by the Batho Pele principles. We

tered Accountants.

maladministration is inclusive

tion for the 2022 CFO Awards.

must be service-delivery orient-

He joined the City of Ekurhu-

and integrated reporting.

“This was a great achieve-

ed. Whether people are watching

leni in 2014 as a divisional head

“I always make sure that the

ment for me. It validated me and

or not, you must always do your

of governance and compliance

city uses money for what has

showed that a lot of things can

best to deliver,” he adds.

within the finance department.

been budgeted for. When we get

be achieved if one works hard. It

Lerutla keeps himself abreast

He was appointed to his current

clean audits and deliver the best

also attest to the fact that young

of industry standards by par-

position in May 2019.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

17

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Writer: Sihle Manda Picture: Supplied

Mosala leading the Information Regulator through the Batho Pele principles 18

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

T

asked to monitor and

solving abilities at a coalface

sation, Mosala has no desires

direct marketer calls, security

enforce compliance by

level.

of resting on his laurels.

compromises and unsuccess-

public and private bodies

The Bloemfontein native

In the 2021/22 financial year,

ful PAIA of 2000 applications.

with the provisions of the Pro-

holds a Bachelor of Arts

the regulator approved its first

On the POPI Act of 2013, the

motion of Access to Information

degree, majoring in Educa-

organisational structure, con-

CEO said the level of adher-

(PAIA) Act, 2000 (Act 2 of 2000),

tion and English, a Bachelor

sisting of 378 positions.

ence was at different levels.

and the Protection of Personal

of Education Honours degree,

Mosala said, through this

Information (POPI) Act 2013 (Act

a Master of Education degree

process, 95% of organisation

Challenges

4 of 2013), the Chief Executive

and a Magister in Public Ad-

positions had been filled.

“There is an obligation on

Officer (CEO) of the Informa-

ministration degree.

tion Regulator, Mosalanyane the principles of Batho Pele.

Batho Pele champion

Mosala’s leadership epitomises

“We will be closing the other

organisations to comply. We

5% in the new financial year,”

have a portal where people

he said.

register. But we are worried

While these were still not

that the compliance is not

He exudes passion when

His firm roots on the Batho

enough, they would be suffi-

being measured. We need to

he speaks of his tenure at the

Pele principles were strength-

cient in the interim, he ex-

begin to measure whether eve-

helm of a regulator steadily

ened by his involvement in

plained.

ryone that is supposed to reg-

finding its feet.

exercises like adjudicating the

The question of resources, for

ister, is registered. Those who

While the Information Act was promulgated in 2013, the organisation was first established in 2016.

Intermittent Acting CEO stints between 2017 and 2021

have sent requests for registra-

“You can have money and people but not perform. It’s about how you turn those into efficiencies.”

tion, we have processed all of them,” he said.

However, the regulator is unable to determine the level of compliance.

saw Mosala dig the trenches to

“We don’t know what is that

lay the institution’s foundation.

number visa vie those who are

The regulator only became

National Batho Pele Excellence

him, is not much of an issue.

supposed to be [registered].

operational in July 2021. The

Awards and the KwaZulu-Natal

“You can have money and

We may have put in place

secondments were to to assist

Premier's Service Excellence

people but not perform. It’s

provisions for people to com-

in establishing the adminis-

Awards.

about how you turn those into

ply voluntarily but we need to

tration of the regulator and

Between 2016 and 2020, he

efficiencies,” he said.

begin to go to the next level.”

provide strategic leadership.

was the National Chairperson

With significant progresses

This will require the regulator

Mosala has worked in the

of the Batho Pele Excellence

recorded in the operations of

to proactively determine the

Public Service for over 38

Awards.

the POPI Act of 2013, attention

amount of public and private

years. Of these, 13 were as a

The Information Regulator

was swiftly being rerouted to

organisations that should be

Chief Director at the Depart-

issues codes of conduct for

the enforcement of the respec-

compliant.

ment of Justice and Constitu-

different sectors and makes

tive laws.

“There is a request that if you

tional Development.

guidelines to assist bodies with

In this regard, Mosala said

process personal information

A trained educator, the tech-

the development and applica-

the organisation’s case load

of a special type, you need to

nocrat has 17 years’ experience

tion of codes of conduct.

was largely seized by com-

ask for prior authorisation to

at local government level,

Despite expected teething

plaints of the public being

process it. You have to request

which enhanced his problem-

problems of a fledgling organi-

bombarded by unsolicited

that from us. If you do not, you

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

19

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

can’t process that personal

complained that musicians

tained. “We are working with

of goals he wants to achieve

information,” Mosala said.

[whose] music is played on TV

them to improve that.”

when the time comes.

The regulator follows a strict

and radio [needed] to be paid,

In its first year of operation,

“I want an efficient admin-

methodology when process-

but there was no transparency.

the regulator received 544

istration by the time I leave

ing requests. For institutions

This prompted the regulator

complaints relating to the

here. For me efficiency doesn’t

that self-regulate, like banks,

held public hearings with all

POPI Act of 2013. According

mean more money, more

the regulator goes through

affected parties and a report

to the organisation’s annual

people. It means that we can

the codes of conduct before

was being processed.

report, 229 were investigated

achieve [more with less],” he

granting or rejecting an ap-

“I have said to the colleagues

and finalised.

said.

plication.

in the regulator that if we are

“We are beginning to

The CEO has already de-

Mosala explained that it can

going to deal with this theo-

increase the [response and

veloped a set pillars geared

take up to two years for the

retically, people will complain

turnaround] time. Obviously

towards achieving this.

regulator to approve an ap-

that we don’t have a clear

there are complex cases that

“I call this a plane with six

plication for a code of conduct

impact,” Mosala said.

we don’t improve overtime,”

engines. The first engine is

and that applying for one does

Biggest achievement is to

he said.

leadership. I want to leave

not warrant an approval.

begin to take the two pieces

“We decline, we don’t just

of legislation to the public and

accept upon application.

“make them real”, he insists.

Tightening processes

These [institutions] will be act-

Among those recently in the

Mosala explained that to

ing on our behalf in whatever

crosshairs of the regulator was

address deficiencies in the

“The second engine is plan-

they do,” he said.

the Department of Basic Edu-

system, the regulator was

ning. If you don’t plan, you’re

To this end, the regulator

cation (DBE) on the publishing

tightening its processes.

haphazard. You come to work

has granted permission to the

of matric results without the

“We did the assessment of

but you don’t know where to

Banking Association of South

consent of learners or parents

municipalities in this financial

start. This way you avoid un-

Africa and the Credit Bureau

or guardians

year and the level of compli-

funded mandates,” he said.

Association. This, however,

“We challenged them [DBE]

ance there is not good,” he

Thirdly, he said, it was also

was after several application

in the first year, they man-

said.

important for the organisation

rejections.

aged to get a court order with

An assessment of the bank-

to have suitable processes in

“We have instances where

some interested party. In the

ing sector fared better. The

place.

we have rejected applications.

second [year)], we insisted

regulators is currently assess-

“I want to us to be a results-

All these have their own pro-

that [they] needed to issue a

ing regulatory institutions, in-

based organisation. These

cesses,” adding that they had

consent form to parents [to

cluding Mosala’s organisation.

results must [lead us] to out-

to be strict from the onset to

grant permission on] whether

“We are being proactive

comes. We must not just say

ensure a clear process.

results can be published or

to push [the level of compli-

‘we had 100 people who com-

not,” he said.

ance],” he said.

plained and we resolved 90%’.

“We act without fear or favour. We will investigate

“These two pieces of legisla-

requests for information on

tion will not mean much if

Results oriented

behalf of the public. [For

they do not impact the lives

With his term of office ending

example] the music industry

of South Africans,” he main-

in 2026, Mosala has a clear set

20

this organisation with capable leaders at all levels”.

This, he said, means ethical leadership with clear direction.

We must determine what those complaints are. How are they impacting on people’s lives?”

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

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See minimum password requirements below for the GEPF self-service Web or App:

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS

Work experience programme opening doors for young people M

any young people in

and 29 in local businesses for

broader Presidential Youth Em-

is SAYouth.mobi, a zero-rated

South Africa find it

a year of work experience.

ployment Intervention, which is

mobile platform where young

difficult to get jobs be-

Through YES, approximately

government’s flagship initiative

people can access opportunities

cause they don’t have any work

R6 billion in youth salaries has

to respond to youth unemploy-

and support. Over four million

experience. They come out of

been injected into the econ-

ment. It includes a range of pro-

young people have already

school, university or college with

omy and has enabled partici-

grammes to help young South

registered on the platform and

qualifications, but many employ-

pants to support their families.

Africans transition from learning

many of the young people par-

to earning.

ticipating in YES were recruited

ers are looking for people with experience.

The YES programme is part of the

Among these programmes

through the platform.

That is why, in 2018, we

An estimated 61% of YES par-

launched the Youth Em-

ticipants come from households

ployment Service (YES), an

reliant on social grants. One

ambitious partnership with

participant, who was placed

the private sector to address

with Mercedes Benz for a year,

the crisis of youth unemploy-

was the sole breadwinner for a

ment. The initiative works with

family of four. She told YES that

companies to provide work

not only was she able to support

experience opportunities for

her family, she was also able to

young people.

save up to start a broiler chicken

Five years later, the YES

business.

programme is helping

Many young people have

to reduce youth un-

been placed in future-facing

employment in very

industries such as informa-

practical ways.

tion technology (IT), the

To date, YES has

green economy, systems

placed over 100

and software engineering,

000 South Afri-

app development and

cans between

others.

the ages of 18

22

In addition to facilitat-

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

ing work experience, YES also

taken by YES, an estimated 40%

value for employers that are able

tion in most countries around

operates several training hubs

of participants are employed on

to facilitate the entry of more

the world, including our own, the

across the country.

completion of the programme.

young South Africans into the

private sector’s involvement is

One participant in the 2021

mainstream of the economy.

critical.

One of the YES participants was placed at the Drone

intake told YES how after com-

Government has put an ena-

As government we will

Academy, a hub in Alexandra

pleting the Multichoice Learner-

bling legislative environment in

continue to play our part by

township in Gauteng that offers

ship Programme she went on

place to incentivise businesses

putting in place regulatory and

training in the maintenance,

to secure a permanent job with

to participate in youth employ-

legislative tools to encourage

repair, servicing and operation of

a multinational firm based in

ment creation. For example,

business to hire more young

drones used for business. Hav-

Gauteng.

both large and small qualifying

South Africans.

ing completed his training, he

In this year already, YES has

enterprises can improve their

Having reached this important

is now employed as a systems

achieved a new record of 32

Broad-Based Black Economic

milestone, we congratulate YES

integration engineer with a

400 jobs. Currently over 1 400

Empowerment status by par-

and its partners for offering a

leading Netherlands-based chip

businesses participate in YES,

ticipating in YES. In addition,

chance at a better life to 100 000

manufacturing firm.

and the aim is to increase the

the Employment Tax Incentive

young people. We can expect to

pace of placements as more

reduces the costs to companies

see these numbers increase in

offer training in IT, aquapon-

companies come on board and

of hiring young people.

the months and years ahead. I

ics and sustainable farming,

more opportunities are made

culinary skills, textile manufac-

available.

Other hubs operated by YES

turing, ceramics and pottery, and automotive manufacturing.

According to research under-

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

We have always said that the

call on more businesses to be-

unemployment crisis can only be

come part of this life-changing

What sets the YES programme

overcome if all social partners

programme and to contribute to

apart is that it doesn’t just create

come on board. As the main

the recovery and reconstruction

meaningful jobs; it also creates

source of job creation and reten-

of our economy and society.

23

FEATURE

Source: SAnews

Human Settlements speeds up disaster response

H 24

uman Settlements Minister

department will take over the

This will effectively see the

Emergency Housing Grant come

Mmamoloko Kubayi says

implementation of the Emergency

Provincial Emergency Hous-

to an end. It will also result in

from 1 April 2023, the

Housing Programme.

ing Grant and the Municipal

the department being able to

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

respond faster to assist those

process of temporarily accom-

assistance, despite the munici-

Finance Corporation, has been

affected by disasters.

modating people.

palities and provinces having

created.

Announcing policy changes

“We also realise that the

received funding for those

“A framework has been devel-

to accelerate performance in

method of the allocation of

disasters.

oped, which includes the defi-

the housing sector, Minister

funds amongst the provinces

Kubayi said the increase in the

was suboptimal, as some

frequency of natural disasters

provinces are more prone to

Emergency Housing Command Centre

and the severity of the dev-

disasters than others,” she said.

As part of implementing the

operating procedure. This team

astation requires a human

Working with National Treas-

emergency housing pro-

is ready to commence with the

settlements disaster response

ury, the Minister said that the

gramme in the new financial

work on 1 April 2023.

that is swift and appropriate

department has determined

year, the Minister said the

“We have further decided that

for alleviating the plight of the

that the response to disasters

Emergency Housing Command

instead of providing Tem-

affected.

will be more effective when

Centre has been established to

porary Residential Units for

The Minister acknowledged

managed at a national level.

coordinate the national disaster

disaster-affected households,

that the department’s response

“This also means that emer-

response.

we will introduce a permanent

has been “underwhelming and

gency funds will be available

“It will have linkages to the

solution through alternative

slow”, resulting in victims find-

for deployment to the affected

South African Weather Ser-

building technology, particu-

ing themselves without homes

areas at the time of need, rath-

vice and provide the ability to

larly in rural areas where mud

two to three years after disaster

er than being appropriated to

receive early warning alerts to

houses often disintegrate dur-

has struck.

a province or municipality that

enable the proactive mobilisa-

ing severe rainfall,” explained

“In some instances, people

does not experience a disaster

tion of resources to respond to

Minister Kubayi.

have been in temporary struc-

during the financial year.

imminent disaster.

Other measures will include

tures for more than 15 years

“We believe that this ap-

“This will also link to the

the provision of vouchers for

when the policy says these

proach will enhance collabo-

National Disaster Centre and

affected households to en-

structures must be replaced

rative planning amongst the

will not work in a competitive

able them to build their own

within six months,” Minister

three spheres of government,

or contradictory manner. This

homes; the provision of build-

Kubayi said.

in anticipation of disasters and

allows communities direct

ing material for residents in

nition of the roles and responsibilities, the implementation guidelines and the standard

She attributed the inadequate

simplify the response so that

access to report incidents via

informal settlements to rebuild

response to long delays in

we optimise funds allocation

email on EHR@dhs.gov.za,” the

in the same location or to

applications for disaster grant

across the country and im-

Minister explained.

relocate to safer land, working

funding from affected munici-

prove the response time,” said

In addition, a disaster man-

alongside social facilitators;

palities and provinces due to

Minister Kubayi.

agement team, which com-

and the provision of Transi-

the lack of skills for assessment

However, Kubayi emphasised

bines and leverages the skills

tional Emergency Accommo-

of disasters at a provincial and

that provinces and municipali-

and capacity of the department

dation, which could include

municipal levels; the dys-

ties are expected to ensure that

and departmental entities, in-

using various identified vacant

functionality of municipalities

they still attend to all outstand-

cluding the Housing Develop-

government buildings across

due to political instability, and

ing households, whose proper-

ment Agency, National Home

the country that can be trans-

prolonged delays in land ac-

ties were destroyed in previous

Builders Regulatory Council

formed into habitable environ-

quisition, which frustrates the

disasters and are yet to receive

and the National Housing

ments. – SAnews.gov.za

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

25

FEATURE

Source: Wits University, article first published in the Nature sustainability Journal

Use practical wisdom in climate change actions Coleen Vogel, Professor at the Global Change Institute among experts who propose the adoption of practical wisdom in the fight against climate change.

A

growing number of scien-

making amid uncertain knowl-

argue that engaging with practi-

demonstrated their commitment

tists is calling for a mind-

edge and conflict. Furthermore,

cal wisdom and virtue ethics can

to continued engagement rather

set shift about climate

wisdom enquiry suggests that

enhance researchers’ capacity

than polarisation. All partici-

change, which draws from various

the pursuit of wisdom is prefer-

to foster transformative change.

pants agreed to stay engaged

knowledge systems, among them

able to the pursuit of knowledge.

“This approach is also focused

and seek connection with one

the adoption of practical wis-

This allows practitioners and

on learning and reflexivity,” says

another to consider the solutions

dom in the fight against climate

researchers to find new and

Vogel.

to hunger.

change.

rational ways to address urgent

The authors show how

The authors propose that uni-

Professor Coleen Vogel, from

challenges without relying on

practical wisdom works when

versities and research institutes

the Global Change Institute at

technical and positivistic ideas

addressing real-world problems

embrace practical wisdom in

the University of the Witwa-

of rationality.

such as food systems in South

their measurement of good qual-

tersrand, has co-authored an in-

“In climate science, without a

Africa, biodiversity conservation

ity science. They claim that, if

ternationally collaborative piece,

guiding principle, we may be-

on Mori indigenous land, green

research institutions want to be

with scientists proposing the

come mired in the complexity of

spaces in small German towns,

viable leaders in today’s world

adoption of practical wisdom in

competing ideas and contexts,

and water pollution in Hungary.

and fulfil their commitment to

the fight against climate change.

which leads to paralysis. This

The Southern African Food

serving the public good, they

Practical wisdom is a useful

is despite the best intentions to

Lab, for example, adopted

need to invest more and become

approach when there are con-

find timeous solutions to guide

the practical wisdom guiding

better in creating the conditions

flicting values, power inequali-

effective action,” explains Vogel.

principle in its Food Futures

for cultivating practical wisdom.

ties, and knowledge gaps. Ac-

The paper, titled Practical Wis-

Scenario Project. It created and

Practical wisdom can help

cording to Greek philosophers,

dom and Virtue Ethics for

disseminated transformative sto-

universities to become powerful

practical wisdom is the central

Knowledge Co-production in

ries about food system futures

actors of change.

virtue of citizens involved in

Sustainability Science, is a

through interaction, communica-

“We live in a time of multiple

public and social life.

radical attempt to outline how

tion and collaboration between

and interconnected crises. We

It is the capacity to navi-

sustainability practitioners can

different actors, including

are all in this together. Practi-

gate complex and contentious

co-produce knowledge where

those with conflicting interests.

cal wisdom as a guiding tenet

situations with will and skill.

collaboration is held in the high-

When an activist criticised the

provides a way of dealing with

Practical wisdom is an ethical

est regard among all stakehold-

dialogue process, lab partici-

complex challenges, now and in

compass that aids decision-

ers. In the article, the authors

pants responded in a way that

the future,” elaborates Vogel.

26

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

FEATURE

Writer: Kate Mlauzi and Dr Francina De Clercq; Wits REAL

Using competency frameworks to build a capable state

C

abinet recently approved

and skilled people driving service

competent and are performing

understand how competencies

the National Framework

delivery.

in line with specific behaviours

are measured and managed, the

linked to their roles and func-

University of Witwatersrand’s

tions.

Centre for Researching Educa-

for the Professionalisation

As government moves to

of the Public Service, which seeks

introduce and reinforce various

to transform the Public Service to

measures to professionalise the

There are a range of interven-

tion and Labour (Wits REAL)

contribute to a professional, ethi-

sector, it might be an opportune

tions which seek to manage

conducted research to under-

cal and capable developmental

time to reflect on how the Public

performance and ensure indi-

stand how competency frame-

state by focusing on, amongst oth-

Service currently assesses

viduals have the competencies

works (CFs) are conceptualised,

ers, ensuring there are competent

whether public servants are

required to perform. In order to

used and applied to improve the

28

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

performance of the Public Service. What emerges from a review of the existing four CFs (the senior management services, the middle management services, the monitoring and evaluation and the financial management competency frameworks)

“A major problem with leadership and management competencies is that the ‘knowledge’ dimension is neither properly and clearly conceptualised nor rooted in any specialised body of knowledge.”

is that these frameworks, which are intended to set standards for

encouraged to learn and make

rent and future talent selection

fectively assume their roles. This

performance so that individuals

mistakes and where incompe-

needs, depending on organi-

omission on what ‘knowledge’

are assessed but also which are

tent and corrupt officials are

sational strategy, priorities and

entails limits the advantages

used as a tool for recruitment,

allowed to retain their positions

performance. In addition, they

of individual competences and

selection, developing and man-

– ultimately, creating a culture

are used to develop individual

CFs in improving public service

aging the performance of human

and climate of chaos.

and group development plans

delivery.

capital so as to be a performing

So, let us delve a bit deeper

which lead to the bridging of

A second area of concern

organisation, are not being used

to understand what CFs are

the gap between the skills the

is that if CFs are supposed to

as intended. The research was

intended to achieve. A CF is ef-

organisation needs to work with

be used for HR functions and

done on behalf of the Public

fectively a model that describes

and the skills available. So, for

the HR value chain, individual

Service Sector Education and

performance excellence within

example, in the Public Service,

competencies should be easy

Training Authority.

an organisation. Such a frame-

most leadership and manage-

to assess, measure and apply.

work usually includes a num-

ment CFs use a combination of

What emerges in the research

ber of competencies that are

core, generic and process com-

is that CFs are mainly used for

In essence, whilst CFs are

applied to multiple occupational

petencies while others (such as

competency assessment aimed,

supposed to help develop the

roles within the organisation

the finance management CF)

not at selection and recruitment

human resource (HR) value

and mainly management roles.

rely more explicitly on technical

but, at development and training

chain, what is happening in real-

Each framework sets out and

competencies.

as well as performance manage-

ity is something very different.

defines individual competen-

The reason for this does not lie

cies required by an organisa-

necessarily in the frameworks

tion in order meet performance

Challenges in implementing CFs

themselves but the context and

standards.

A major problem with leadership

(whilst capacity varies) of these

environment in which they are

So, effectively, a CF is a way

and management competencies

CFs among many departments

supposed to be implemented.

for the Public Service to com-

is that the ‘knowledge’ dimen-

which treat them as yet another

Ultimately, if a CF is not located

municate which behaviours are

sion is never properly and clearly

exercise in bureaucratic compli-

in an enabling and conducive

required, valued, recognised

conceptualised nor rooted in any

ance.

environment, the framework on

and rewarded with respect to

specialised body of knowledge.

Some departments are more

its own will not achieve its in-

specific leadership and manage-

Yet, if leaders and managers in

proactive than others in devel-

tended purpose. In other words,

ment occupational roles. They

a department do not have some

oping more detailed and specific

it is extremely difficult to build

are also used to identify skills,

grounding in a specialised body

CFs to strengthen their HR func-

and exercise competencies in

knowledge, behaviours and

of knowledge related to their

tions while, in other depart-

a space where people are not

abilities needed to meet cur-

sector, they are unlikely to ef-

ments, the CFs may not lead to

The role of CFs

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

ment (even if little consequence management occurs). There is also a lack of full ownership

29

Image: Jason Goodman on Unsplash

FEATURE

the identification of appropriate

making by giving greater author-

boundaries and embrace group

and culture as they are embed-

and effective training courses

ity and responsibility to units,

dynamics, institutional dynam-

ded in the existing structures

nor to an effective performance

divisions or department, which

ics, social regulation structures

and environment.

management process. In that

require greater leadership and

and feedback mechanisms.

With the right supportive

sense, CFs are only to a lim-

management agency. Instead,

Greater collaboration, networks

leadership and a strong knowl-

ited degree aligned with and

many senior managers prefer to

and partnerships between vari-

edge base, departments that are

contributing to the competency

operate in the safe rule-bound

ous departments and organs of

focused on collective leadership

requirements for public service

bureaucratic mould, which does

civil society are also required

should be given the space and

leadership in a developmental

not call on their critical thinking,

to implement the developmen-

autonomy to pilot new ap-

state.

problem-solving or actually mak-

tal objectives of the State. CFs

proaches, which could then be

What also emerges very

ing decisions to effect change.

should, therefore, move away

replicated across other depart-

from static competencies into

ments. There is a danger in fail-

dynamic competencies with

ing to explore new organisational

an effective form of collective

approaches and a paradigm shift

strongly from the research is the fact that there is limited space for individual agency or for individu-

Ideological mind shift

als to show what they can and

What does this all mean then for

leadership capable and com-

in terms of thinking dynami-

cannot do. This is a result of the

building a capable, competent

mitted to learn continuously and

cally about how to measure and

fact that current work organisa-

and ethical state? The research

renew itself.

monitor competencies. This

tions, organisational structures,

calls for a new ideological mind

The research also notes that

should be coupled with a more

culture, political stability and

shift and ways of working, which

CFs on their own cannot be

enabling ethical leadership as

leadership are often inadequate

focus on the citizens of the

seen separately from their cur-

well as a conducive organisa-

and mitigate against individuals

country and this will also require

rent organisational and broader

tional and institutional context

actually performing. This is also

changes in organisational ar-

environment, which will impact

which encourages the exercise

the result of the fact that many

rangements, structures, cultures,

on what they can or not do. They

of professional individual agency

senior and middle managers are

leadership as well as different

cannot be used optimistically as

and may disturb some of the

reluctant to adopt managerialist

CFs.

the main drivers or starting point

existing leadership and senior

structures and processes which

CFs should transcend intra-

for promoting these changes

managers with a vested interest

decentralise or devolve decision-

organisational and sectoral

in the Public Service structures

in the status quo.

30

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

I KNOW.

I ACT. I STOP P

EVE S I N O TI

FIGH

RRU O C G N TI

RYO

NESS I S U B NE’S

FEATURE

Image: Jason Goodman on Unsplash

Writer: Dr Wilma van Staden, eLearning consultant for the Wits REAL certain fundamentals are in place before embarking on the new ways of training. The study recommends that employees should be equipped with the skills and knowledge on the suggested learning tools and platforms; mechanism to evaluate these courses and have some form of system to standardise them and address access. A paper presented at the Environmental Education Association of South-

Upscaling eLearning in the public sector

T

ern Africa conference in 2020

Solution

titled; In Rethinking Learning and Teaching Under COVID-19 &

The Public Service Sector

Beyond Emerging Approaches to

Education and Training Author-

Remote and Digital Learning in

ity (PSETA) commissioned the

Africa, notes that eLearning ex-

University of the Witwatersrand’s

poses a ‘digital divide’ as access

Centre for Researching Educa-

to devices, data costs and digital

tion and Labour (Wits REAL) to

literacy are unequally distributed

conduct research to get a clearer

in communities and are embed-

understanding of these issues so

ded in the sociopolitical powers

as to ensure eLearning (viewed

of society.

as a pivotal pillar of the 4IR),

he COVID-19 pandemic

brought to the fore the impor-

ages that in turn will increase

forced organisations

tance of eLearning so as to

the effectiveness of service

ELearning as a key mechanism for delivering skills development

across the globe to rethink

becomes a tool to capacitate the sector, decrease skill short-

deliver a public service that is

delivery. The study, ELearning

Government identified the 4IR

not only how they conduct their

agile, user-centred, transparent,

Assessment Framework for the

and in particular eLearning as

businesses but how they reskill

secure and data-driven.

Public Service Sector, found

a key mechanism for delivering

and upskill their employees with

What this means, in reality, is

that the pandemic necessitated

skills development in a cost-

the requisite knowledge to per-

ensuring that public servants

emergency changes in training

effective and efficient manner

form. The same has been true for

are constantly learning digital

methods from “talk and chalk to

before the COVID-19 pandemic.

the South African Public Service,

skills on the job. Whilst the

blended and online learning”.

The transition has been slower

which has had to rethink its edu-

COVID-19 pandemic surged

Whilst the new environment

than anticipated. Research

cation and training provision not

up the move to e-learning, the

has created an opportunity to

conducted by the Human Sci-

only as a result of the pandemic

key question is the extent of

think differently and set new

ences Research Council in 2019,

but in view of government’s com-

uptake and its corresponding

training mechanisms in place

found that most government

mitment to prioritise the Fourth

challenges in a move away from

towards more technology-based

departments did not have the

Industrial Revolution (4IR).

traditional forms of training in the

platforms, the research also

human and physical resources to

These developments have

Public Service.

found the need to make sure

optimise the role of the Informa-

32

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

tion Communications Technology

“However, our research high-

attitudes towards eLearning and

for participants to successfully

(ICT) in the public sector.

lights existing challenges at vari-

technology adoption.

complete training.

Shifting mind-sets

The implementation of eL-

ous levels, from national to pro-

earning is guided by numerous

vincial level, training providers,

policies and institutions which

as well as training beneficiaries,

Findings and recommendations

are responsible for the education

the public servants. At national

The research findings highlight

Public Service will have to tackle

and training of the public sector.

government issues to be resolved

the need for a multi-pronged ap-

shifting mind-sets around the use

The PSETA is supported by vari-

include, instilling a digital culture

proach to ensure the successful

of technology for learning as well

ous stakeholders, including the

and eLearning mindset, upskill-

uptake of e-learning, ranging from

as develop an online platform

Department of Higher Education

ing for digital transformation and

ensuring a structural alignment

where various tools to inform

and Training (DHET) and the

4IR, which requires identifying

between policy and practice to

eLearning can be utilised. These

National School of Government.

digital skills and match training

developing the appropriate sys-

would include tools to translate

Various eLearning platforms such

to such needs, implementing

tems and integration of eLearning

policy to practice, eLearning

as online course websites, learn-

eLearning policies and a frame-

programmes. In addition, ensuring

course review tools and post-eL-

ing management systems, mobile

work, developing an eLearning

some level of quality assurance

earning programme review tools.

learning applications, zoom and

conceptual framework and an

and addressing access to both

The platform can also ensure that

WhatsApp, are being utilised.

eLearning ecosystem”, explained

data and the technology to access

eLearning is standardised and

Effectively using these eLearn-

Wits REAL.

eLearning opportunities.

information obtained from the

In the medium to long term, the

ing platforms and accompanied

“At a provincial level, issues re-

In the short term, some core

tool assessments can be tracked

learning tools, requires a level

late to poor access to technology,

issues around the digital divide

and used to inform the eLearn-

of digital skills and knowledge.

a lack of infrastructure support

can be addressed through the

ing system and for comparative

These tools and processes,

and quality control and evalu-

provision of an open access learn-

analysis.

however, need to be integrated to

ation of training programmes,

ing platform or collaborating with

Whilst transforming traditional

ensure transformation results in

eLearning strategic planning and

an existing open access platform,

education is often hyped up, gov-

digital competencies and the use

developing an eLearning eco-

such as the DHET’s platform;

ernment has been cautious in its

of digital productivity tools.

system and learning networks.

make all training platforms data

approach to the use of eLearning

A further issue to factor in

And finally, human and physical

free or zero-rated; plan online

and ed-tech. For the introduction

is that policymakers assume

resources to optimise the role of

contact sessions on datareverse

of new technologies to have the

that eLearning and educational

the ICT.”

communication channels such

desired effect in up-skilling and

technologies (ed-tech) can level

Training providers and depart-

as Veedo instead of Zoom; and

developing public servants who

educational opportunities, intro-

ments have poorly designed

develop smartphone mobile

have the digital skills necessary, it

duce new flexibilities and include

learning materials, a lack of

friendly eLearning platforms and

will require some careful manage-

geographies that had previously

eLearning pedagogy, facilitators

design smartphone friendly online

ment and ensuring that the right

been excluded. In a nutshell,

and course managers who lack

courses. This will also illuminate

systems and infrastructure are

the expectations are that public

digital literacy and critical think-

the geographical infrastructure of

in place. This is critical if a real

service sector skill providers will

ing skills. Other concerns relate to

poor access to technology in rural

digital transformation can happen

incorporate ed-tech into their

exploring flexible content delivery

areas.

– not a transformation that further

education and training provision

platforms, developing eLearning

After addressing data and tech-

entrenches existing inequalities.

and teach 21st century work-

networks, and designing eLearn-

nology access, the Department of

Click on the link below to

place skills that will enhance the

ing programmes.

Public Service and Administration

download the full report: https://

capacity of the public sector and,

Public servants face challenges

will need to ensure that all eL-

pseta.org.za/wp-content/up-

thus, contribute towards indus-

around accessing technology

earning programmes start with a

loads/2020/07/PSETA-e-Learn-

trial and economic development.

and data, a lack of digital literacy

module on digital orientation and

ing-Assessment-Framework-Final.

Research highlights

and equally important addressing

digital literacy skills. This is critical

pdf

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

33

Source: Cabinet Factsheet

PICTORIAL

Addressing electricity challenges I

34

n March 2023, the Minister

coalface, with the aim to

for Electricity, Dr Kgosient-

forge collaboration at a

sho Ramokgopa, undertook

power station level, as part of

visits to 14 power stations

the programme to improve

for first-hand insight of the

generation capacity and

challenges facing Eskom at a

ultimately address elec-

power station level.

tricity shortage.

The visits allowed the

Below are the Minis-

Minister opportunities to

ter's photos interacting

engage with management,

with various stakehold-

workers and unions at the

ers during the visits.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

35

FEATURE

Source: Pulse of the Public Service Commission: Volume 22

Analysing senior management performance in the Public Service

ensure that their performance is optimal and meets the needs of the developmental state. It is against this background that the Public Service Commission conducted a study titled the Investigative Analysis into the Enablers and Inhibitors of Job Performance of Senior Managers in the Public Service in 2021/22.

The study explored whether the performance, narrative and existing paradigm among SMS members are consistent with the demands of a developmental state, the ambitions of the NDP and the aspirations of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.

The ability of senior managers and executive authorities to operate effectively within the political-administrative environment is a crucial variable in the overall capability and capacity of government to execute its constitutional mandate. Achieving the correct balance in this complex relationship is pivotal

C

to achieving successful develophapter 13 of the National

One of the critical characteris-

that is assigned to implement

ment outcomes, and attaining

Development Plan (NDP)

tics of a developmental state is

appropriate short-term, medium-

public service efficiency and it

concedes that one of the

the efficiency and effectiveness

term and long-term development

is also cited as a key feature of a

main challenges in the Public Ser-

of the Public Service. Public

plans. Bureaucrats and techno-

successful developmental state.

vice is ensuring the appointment

administrators are required to

crats play a crucial role in the

of appropriately skilled people who

shape the institutional arrange-

actual developmental path of the

demonstrate a professional ethic

ments in order to drive and

state bureaucracy.

and commitment to the Public Ser-

implement the developmental

Thus, the performance of the

Performance enablers and inhibitors

vice to effectively implement public

agenda. The core of any de-

Senior Management Service

The study has identified a range

policy priorities and to deliver

velopmental state is a well-

(SMS) echelon must be exam-

of factors that serve as perfor-

public services.

coordinated state administration

ined continuously in order to

mance enablers, and inhibitors

36

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

as well as factors that serve as

pervisors, teamwork or collabo-

 Prohibit political considera-

dedicated, loyal and diligent

enablers or inhibitors depending

ration between colleagues and

tions or involvement in the

employees in order to boost

on contextual variables.

departmental units, recognition

recruitment, transfer or ap-

morale and productivity and

The findings suggest that all

by peers and superiors and ex-

pointment of SMS members,

delegating authority for deci-

SMS members who partici-

posure to training and develop-

or limit it when dealing with

sion-making and programme

pated in the study have a clear

ment opportunities.

heads of department ap-

implementation.

understanding of the conduct,

Performance inhibitors in-

pointments.

It should also address capac-

decorum, professionalism and

clude, amongst others, continu-

 Prioritise development for

ity and budget constraints

the essential values befitting of

ous restructuring, incompetent

SMS members (in terms

constructively by setting

an ideal public servant, quality

supervisors, low staff morale

of time and other types of

realistic performance targets;

service delivery and optimal

and lack of passion for work as-

support such as construc-

prevent tensions at the politi-

performance.

signed and political interference

tive feedback) training and

cal-administrative interface by

capacity.

implementing the NDP recom-

However, the proper fulfilment

or involvement in recruitment

of the capability that already

and selection processes. How-

exists to shift performance

ever, factors such as organisa-

developing and implement-

on Professionalisation of the

from satisfactory to optimal

tional culture, restructuring or

ing a ‘holistic’ performance

Public Service.

is hindered by a number of

reorganisation, and competency

reward framework for the

A capable and development-

critical inhibitors, including,

levels of supervisors and sub-

Public Service so that em-

oriented state requires man-

amongst others, toxic organi-

ordinates, including employee

ployees can feel appreciated,

agers and leaders who are

sational culture, appointment

commitment serve as possible

recognised and supported

innovative in the development

or deployment of incompetent

enablers or inhibitors depend-

to achieve optimal perfor-

of new approaches to public

persons into key positions, lack

ing on contextual variables.

mance.

administration and new tech-

of support from some superiors, continuous restructuring or

Way forward

reorganisation, low staff morale and lack of passion for work as-

 Expedite the process of

 Institutionalise the constitu-

mendations and the Framework

nologies, and have a productive

tional values and principles

and fulfilling work life for the

The following recommenda-

as a basis to build a profes-

betterment of the lives of fellow

tions proceeding from the NDP

sional and conducive Public

citizens and residents.

signed and budget cuts.

and the Framework on Pro-

Service work environment.

Making the Public Service an

In addition, the findings sug-

fessionalisation of the Public

The research recommends that

employer of choice requires an

gest that the prescripts that

Service are provided for con-

mechanisms should be put in

improved skills profile of the

govern the human resource

sideration and implementation

place to deal with the underly-

existing and future workforce to

management value chain are

by departments to optimise the

ing causes of the identified

enable greater levels of pro-

clear, but their effectiveness are

benefits of the identified drivers

inhibitors and to effectively

ductivity and adaptability to the

undermined by non-compliance

of SMS performance, and to

manage or minimise the impact

changing needs of the labour

and inconsistent implementa-

influence the direction of those

of already existing inhibitors.

market and society at large. It

tion.

factors that can either become

Intervention should include

is, therefore, incumbent on gov-

The study has identified a

enablers or inhibitors, and pre-

capacitating incompetent and

ernment to adopt a perspective

range of factors that serve as

vent or minimise the negative

non-supportive supervisors

for training and management in

performance enablers for SMS

impact of the inhibitors:

and subordinates, failing which,

the Public Service that is com-

members, including prompt

 Implement merit-based

consequence management

mensurate with the needs and

and constructive support and

recruitment, promotions,

should be initiated; recognis-

requirements of a developmental

feedback from competent su-

transfers and secondments.

ing and rewarding (in-kind)

state.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

37

Writer: Yoliswa Makhasi, Director-General, DPSA

FEATURE

Government leaders discuss innovation in the Public Service T

he 2023 Innovation Confer-

around the world, to promote

departments and adapt civil

ence held in the United

and develop new approaches

servants’ tools, incentives and

Kingdom (UK) on 21 March

to policymaking and service

systems to ensure sustainable

2023, brought together govern-

delivery.

innovation.

ment leaders from across the

Governments face a complex

Furthermore, officials require

globe responsible for the transfor-

set of social, economic and envi-

the tools, skills and confidence

mation and acceleration of public

ronmental challenges, driven by

to experiment with new ap-

sector organisations and services.

rapid technological, political and

proaches to service delivery. The

An estimated 500 participants

demographic change. And with

systems and structures within

attended the conference, which

public finances under pressure,

which they operate must support

Centre for Public Service Innova-

was addressed by more than

few can spend their way out of

and promote intelligent risk-

tion have a greater role to play to

20 speakers drawn from vari-

problems.

taking. And they need to work in

lead, inspire and engage public

ous countries, including South

But by embracing innovation,

partnership across professional

servants to be innovators.

African Cabinet Secretary and

the conference demonstrated

and organisational boundaries,

As the Department of Public

Director-General in The Presi-

that we can find solutions within

assembling the right skills and

Service and Administration, we

dency Phindile Baleni.

the same dynamics that are

capabilities to rebuild services

will continue to take up our role

I was honoured to be part of

constantly throwing up new

around users’ needs.

at the policy level by setting

the participants from South Afri-

challenges – adopting emerg-

My insight from this conference

norms and standards that enable

ca together with colleagues from

ing technologies, adapting to

is that innovation is for everyone,

and do not constrain innovation

The Presidency, the National

changed cultures, and building

not for technologists only. We

in the Public Service.

School of Government, and the

new skills, structures and com-

don’t need more money to inno-

Drawing on the expertise and

departments of Communications

munications methods to meet

vate, there are already so many

views of all those attending the

and Digital Technology and Sci-

the public’s evolving expecta-

resources being channelled into

Innovation Conference pre-

ence and Innovation.

tions.

Information and communica-

sented a unique opportunity to

The conference was co-hosted

Governments have no choice

tion technology systems and

explore the keys to innovation

by the UK Government, UK Civil

but to innovate. The various

processes aimed at the delivery

with colleagues from around the

Service and the Cabinet Office.

speakers at the conference

of quality services at large. We

world.

Innovation 2023 was aimed at

demonstrated the need for gov-

must involve employees at dif-

assisting civil servants from a

ernments to draw on the talent

ferent levels and support them

*The article was first published

range of critical professions and

of the whole workforce, address

to raise awareness of innovation

by The Public Servant Quarterly

functions, and from countries

the barriers within and across

and their role. Institutions like the

Magazine for the Public Service.

38

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Health • Rural Development • Employment • Safety & Security • Education

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Printed Copies per month

Available online: www.vukuzenzele.gov.za

Also available on: Employm

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Edition 1

cooperative that will create in the touris jobs m sector becau our comm unity is situat se the borde ed at rs of Kruge r National Park and Many eleti Game Reserve,” he says.

Mathebula adds that sustaining the vision and keepi the coope ng rative runni ng has not been a smooth ride, but giving up has never been an option.

More Mats “In the hediso first few years of our existe nce, we managed to secure group of 50 hectares youn g of with land gradua in the tes in Welv erdie community nd Welv erdie , and the nd in National Depa Bush buck rtment of ridge , Mpum alang Tourism funded our a, came project of toget her in 2001 building the lodge to form with appro a coop erative that ximately R10.9 millio has so far n between creat ed more and 2008.

2005 than 35 jobs in the Unfortunat touri sm ely, we could not secto r. finish the Mutlhwarh project and ran eni Coop out of funds erative Ltd is a true ,” says Mathebula example . of what can be achiev While ed if comm ties join hands uni- comp looking for ways to lete the projec and collab with exper orate perat t, the cooienced comp ive decid anies to ed to start fight pover Wild Olive the ty and unem Tree Camp ment in societ ploy- to in 2013 off er tented y. accommoda According for touris tion to the coope ts, which tive’s Gener ra- opera came into al Secretary, tion in 2014.

Clifort Mathebula In 2021, , the coope the coop rative was establ erativ e received ished in 2001 a R5 millio unemploye by 17 from n grant The new d youth the Indus in rural trial Deve Welverdiend Kruger LodgeMont d’Or Opern ment Corp lopwho were created more in Mpumalanga oration graduhas ates in different (IDC) of than 35 South Africa locals to fields of study date. Picture jobs for Ltd to finish including , ding the : GCIS builteaching, lodge. The accounting and touris IDC has a role to fund m, amon g others. programme “The aim s and was to establ ish a

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2

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Public-private partnership ensures water supply in Northern Cape W ater and Sanita-

manage, Minister Mchunu said

tion Minister Senzo

the completion of the project

Mchunu and Northern

was due to the collaboration

Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul

between government and the

have hailed the public-private

MLF, which funded the project

partnership between the Mining

to ensure that water challenges

Leadership Forum (MLF) and

are addressed in the John Taolo

the Department of Water and

Gaetsewe District.

Sanitation (DWS), which saw the

“We appreciate and acknowl-

completion of the first phase of

edge this contribution made by

of the water supply challenges in

said the refurbishment of the

the Vaal-Gamagara Water Supply

the MLF and this justifies the

the district.

pipeline prioritised communi-

Scheme.

fact that government jointly with

The Northern Cape mostly

ties as the main beneficiaries,

The R1.7 billion water supply

private organisations can work

comprises desert areas which

and it has ensured that more

scheme, which is located in John

together to expedite service

lack rainfall and the construction

megalitres of water per day are

Taolo Gaetsewe District Munici-

delivery,” said the Minister.

of the pipelines will see many

provided to benefit households

pality, is a joint venture between

He acknowledged the impor-

more homes receiving clean

that have been struggling with

the DWS and the local mining

tance of public-private partner-

drinking water.

clean, fresh water supply in the

forum.

ships, saying government has

“We truly believe that the only

district.

The project, constructed by

demonstrated that it can build

way we can improve the quality

Minister Mchunu said the de-

Bloem Water as the imple-

trust with private institutions for

of lives of the people is through

partment will forge ahead with

menting agent, was completed

the benefit of the people.

massive investment in social

the partnership with the MLF for

in June 2022. It included the

“Let us use this trust and make

infrastructure, and that includes

Phase 2 of the Vaal-Gamagara

upgrading of a 75-kilometre

this completed project thrive

the provision of fresh water sup-

Water Supply Scheme, which is

(km) existing steel pipeline to

for the advancement of service

ply and dignified sanitation to

worth a total of R4.8 billion.

benefit various water users,

delivery. The water sector needs

the communities.

“The second phase of the

including mines, municipali-

more of these partnerships to

“We have witnessed the execu-

water project is also about the

ties, the agricultural sector and

ensure that water is brought to

tion and the success of this

upgrading of a 260-km remain-

approximately 6 000 households

people’s homes, thus changing

water project, and we are look-

ing pipeline, from the Vaal River

in Gamagara and Tsantsabane

their lives for the better.”

ing forward to the second phase

Pump Station to Roscoe near

local municipalities.

Premier Saul welcomed the

of the pipeline project,” said the

Kathu in the Gamagara Munici-

Handing over the completed

completion of Phase 1 of the

Premier.

pality,” he explained. – SAnews.

project to Bloem Water to

project, which will address most

Sifiso Nxumalo, from the MLF,

gov.za

40

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

What will people 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.

FEATURE

Source: SAnews Picture: Colin Lloyd on Unsplash

Action plan lends a hand to building a better SA A s the country moves from

and sexist past still feature in

tion. It is complementary to the

the provisions of the Constitution

Human Rights Month

private and public institutions,

Constitution and other laws,

of the Republic of South Africa,

(March) to Freedom

in business, in access to skills,

policies and frameworks that

1996 and the Bill of Rights a

Month (April), government con-

wealth and opportunity, and in

aim to combat discrimination

lived reality for all.

tinues to address challenges that

the spatial configuration of our

and protect the right to equality,”

Over the years, government

threaten the gains made so far in

cities, towns and rural areas,” he

says the Department of Justice

has encouraged South Africans

building a better South Africa for

said.

and Constitutional Development

to foster greater social cohesion,

all.

The National Action Plan

(DOJ&CD).

nation building and a shared

Since the dawn of democracy

(NAP) to Combat Racism, Racial

Government first made men-

national identity adding that it is

in 1994, South Africa continues

Discrimination, Xenophobia and

tion of the draft plan at the Hu-

the duty of the nation to strive

to battle with racism.

Related Intolerance is one of the

man Rights celebrations in 2016.

for inclusive socio-economic

Speaking on day one of a

initiatives that government is

Cabinet has reiterated that

development, while ensuring

three-day National Conference

using to build a more inclusive

it remains committed to the

that the country combats rac-

on the Constitution recently,

South Africa.

constitutional responsibility of

ism, racial discrimination and all

President Cyril Ramaphosa

“The NAP to Combat Racism,

protecting the human rights of

related intolerances.

emphasised that government

Racial Discrimination, Xenopho-

all people in the country.

The plan provides the basis for

is compelled to address racial

bia and Related Intolerance pro-

A recent post-Cabinet brief-

raising awareness of anti-racism,

boundaries and inequalities that

vides the basis for the develop-

ing stressed the importance of

equality and anti-discrimination

still exist within society.

ment of a comprehensive public

working together to ensure that

issues and developing collective

“The contours of our racist

policy against racial discrimina-

no one is left behind in making

responses.

42

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

The DOJ&CD has been the fo-

ally from 14 to 21 March.

aimed at developing a Rapid Re-

the DOJ&CD reiterates that the

cal agency for coordinating the

The ARNSA was set up by the

sponse Mechanism (RRM) that

country’s Constitution is one of

implementation of the NAP to

Ahmed Kathrada and the Nelson

will be linked to an early warn-

the best in the world.

Combat Racism, Racial Discrimi-

Mandela foundations in 2015.

ing system. The RRM will also

“Our Constitution has a

nation, Xenophobia and Related

The network aims to ensure

collate incidents of racist and

Chapter 2 (Bill of Rights) that

Intolerance. The implementation

that local organisations are

xenophobic offences that are

enshrines various rights guaran-

of the plan is premised on the

capacitated to deal with issues

reported to the SAPS and other

teed therein, and is dedicated to

approach that it belongs to all

of racism within communities. It

law enforcement agencies.

ensuring respect for and uphold-

and that its implementation re-

also aims to form part of national

“The first meeting of the

ing of the human rights of all

quires a collaborative approach.

and international efforts to tackle

RRM task team took place on

who live in South Africa. This is

In the foreword of the plan,

the issue.

10 March 2022. Work by the

evident and set out in the rights

President Ramaphosa notes

Developments made through

DOJ&CD, in collaboration with

as outlined in the Bill of Rights,”

that racism and racial dis-

the action plan include the

various stakeholders towards

it said.

crimination continue to be felt in

department’s continued co-

operationalising the RRM, is on-

The department notes that

society alongside other forms of

chairing role in the United Na-

going,” explains the department.

there are high levels of reported

prejudice, sexism, xenophobia,

tions Protection Working Group

Stakeholders have also es-

incidents of discrimination and

homophobia, hate crimes and

(UNPWG) with the United

tablished the NAP governance

intolerance, which people still

hate speech.

Nations High Commissioner for

model which has been approved

experience on a daily basis.

Refugees. The UNPWG pro-

by Cabinet. The structure was

“This can be linked to high

vides a platform for exchange of

inaugurated and established on

levels of inequality, poverty and

With 2023 marking the fourth

information on issues pertain-

25 March 2022 to signify the

unemployment that the majority

anniversary of the launch of the

ing to the protection of foreign

political will in the fight against

of our people, especially vulner-

action plan, several key indica-

nationals, including refugees

all forms of discrimination. The

able groups such as the youth,

tions, including an integrated

and asylum seekers and agree

structure, which comprises eight

women, refugees and asylum

government strategy on public

on actions that may be required

ministries, based on the cross-

seekers experience on a daily

education pertaining to anti-

in order to address problems

cutting issues covered by the

basis.

discrimination, have been final-

faced by foreign nationals. The

NAP is chaired by the Minister

“Notwithstanding the above,

ised. The strategy is expected

working group plays a vital role

of Justice and Correctional

there are well-established

to contribute to an improved,

in escalating threats of attacks

Services.

national policies, legal instru-

coordinated, government-wide

against foreign nationals to the

The establishment of two

ments and mechanisms to

approach to public education

Justice Crime Prevention and

further operational structures,

address these scourges and

and raising awareness on anti-

Security Cluster.

namely the Programme Imple-

human rights violations, such

discrimination issues.

Other government depart-

mentation Committee and Tech-

as the Chapter 9 institutions,

In addition, the DOJ&CD

ments, including International

nical Task Teams are currently

Equality courts and various

continues to conduct various

Relations and Cooperation,

underway.

other fora that are mandated to

activities in collaboration with

Home Affairs and the South Af-

relevant stakeholders such as

rican Police Service (SAPS) are

the Anti-Racism Network of

members of this working group.

Charting a way forward

South Africa (ARNSA) and other

Work that has also been done

With Human Rights Month hav-

forms of intolerance,” notes the

partners during Anti-Racism

includes the establishment of

ing ended and the country‘s fo-

department.-SAnews.gov.za

Week which takes place annu-

the rapid response task team

cus shifting to Freedom Month,

Progress made

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

investigate and provide redress, and to combat discrimination based on racism and all related

43

Writer: More Matshediso

FEATURE

Buy locally manufactured products T

“Proudly SA plays its part in alleviating poverty and unemployment through its broader buy-local campaign, and as a flagship event of the organisation the summit has multiple objectives aimed at maximising the reach and impact of the campaign”.

About 200 local companies, mostly small businesses and start-ups, were given an opportunity to showcase their products. They showcased high

o give that much needed

quality homegrown goods, from

shot in the arm of

toys and kiddies’ educational

South Africa's Economic

material, stylish furniture and

Reconstruction and Recovery

electronics for home and office

Plan, South Africans are urged to

use to tasty food and drinks,

embrace locally produced goods,

as well as utility and luxury

thus supporting local businesses

vehicles.

while contributing to the creation

PSM spoke to the owner of

and preservation of jobs.

Love Mina, Tilana van Vuuren

To further this

from Port Shepstone in KwaZu-

cause, Proudly South

lu-Natal.

African (Proudly SA)

“We are a toy and children’s

hosted its 11th annual Buy Local

product manufacturer. Our first

Summit and Expo at the Sandton

official product is the Love Mina

Convention Centre from 27 to 28

rag doll. The business was born

March.

small businesses and the work-

private sector to increase its

when I realised that there are

Speaking at the event Trade,

ers are doing,” he said.

uptake of locally sourced and

no rag dolls that are reflective

Industry and Competition Min-

The aim of the event was to

manufactured goods and ser-

of South African children. My

ister Ebrahim Patel noted that it

encourage all spheres and agen-

vices required for their day-to-

daughter is mixed-race and

should not only be government

cies of government to prioritise

day operations.

I wanted her to have a doll

that procures locally produced

localisation in their procurement

Proudly SA Chief Executive

that she can relate to, with her

products, but that the private

processes.

Officer Eustace Mashimbye

golden skin and curly afro hair,”

sector and citizens need to also

The summit also sought to

explained that the expo was a

she said.

play their part in supporting local

educate consumers on the

great platform that adds value

The Love Mina dolls come in

business.

importance of buying local and

to aspiring entrepreneurs and

three different skin tones (for

“I urge you to do more to

the impact it has on job creation

offers networking opportunities

now) and custom-made dolls

publicly advocate the great work

and the much-needed economic

with large corporates in South

can be designed for each child

that South African businesses,

growth. It also encouraged the

Africa.

to even include a disability when

44

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

cans to support locally manufactured products because if we are serious about seeing the development of our country, we need to spend our money here at home”.

“There are so many quality products that are locally produced. They are developed with care, consideration and sensitivity to our needs and interests.

Buying locally manufactured “Every single week we have

products is also important for

women knocking on our door

nation-building and to stimulate

asking for jobs. It is heartbreak-

economic growth. It is all about

ing that we are not yet able to

national pride and patriotism

employ more people because

and this can go a long way for

a lot of people are desperate to

South Africa,” he said.

earn a living,” she said.

R. A. Vuthela Creations is

Supporting local business

based in Edenvale in Gauteng and manufactures ceramic tableware and bakeware. It was

Van Vuuren encouraged South

established in 2020 during the

Africans to buy local.

COVID-19 national lockdown.

“The more awareness we bring

“Our art is nostalgic and may

to buying local, the more it will

remind you about our common

the client requires.

South African diversity by creat-

boost sales and the more busi-

upbringing, certain places and

The company was established

ing beautiful clothing designs

ness owners, like ourselves, will

spaces,” he said.

in 2022 and registered with

for the dolls that reflect South

be able to employ more people.

The company also makes cus-

Proudly SA.

African cultures.

It is also important for us as

tomised dinner sets with family

“Being a member of Proudly

“The aim is to show young

small businesses to try and find

names, own artwork or customer

SA has opened so many doors

children that toys can look like

a good balance between making

totems on products.

for collaboration with other

them too and that they do not

profit and our social responsibil-

“This offers our clients a

South African businesses. The

need to aspire to look a particu-

ity. We also need big organisa-

unique set that they cannot buy

summit has so far been the

lar way,” explained Van Vuuren.

tions to support us in order for

at the shops. It's very authentic

highlight of our journey. We get

The company currently em-

us to have a bigger impact in

and personal self-expression

to participate in celebrating

ploys nine full-time staff mem-

society,” she said.

through ceramic art. We also sell

the diversity of South African

bers and two part-time workers.

Another entrepreneur, Thabo

drawings and paintings,” he said.

children and make a positive

Van Vuuren says the level of

Kele, who was representing R.A.

For more information about

impact on our local community

unemployment in the country

Vuthela Creations shared the

Proudly SA and the companies

of women,” said Van Vuuren.

also fuels her to want to contrib-

same sentiments.

they support, visit www.proudly-

The company also celebrates

ute more to job creation.

“It is important for South Afri-

sa.co.za

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

45

GROOMING AND ST YLE

Writer: More Matshediso

How to prepare your skin for

colder seasons D

ull, itchy and dry skin can

Of course, this is easier

make life difficult as, in

said than done because

some instances, this can

winter brings along harsh

affect confidence. For some, this

winds and dry air, caus-

is common during autumn and

ing all sort of beauty blunders

regimen, especially in winter.

winter. Professional Make-Up

like flaky skin. Plus, you will be

It washes off dead skin cells

Enhancing skin glow

Artist (MUA) and owner of Exinia

exposed to a variety of artificial

that accumulate on your

If you are looking for an added

Beauty Bar, Mapaseka Mokoena,

heaters in your car and house

face. Depending on your

boost of confidence in winter,

has a few tips that can help you

that contribute to skin prob-

skin type, you can exfoliate

make-up usually does the trick.

lems,” explains Mokoena.

once a week.

Dewy skin makes you look

take care of your skin, as we approach the colder months.

• Don’t skip your moisturiser:

young and vibrant. It leaves

Since changes in tempera-

your skin looking well moistur-

ture and humidity can cause

ised, and softens fine lines and

skin nourished and glowing

Tips for natural glowing skin in autumn and winter

during the dry winter months.

Here are some beauty tips that

you may find that switching

will keep your skin glowing

moisturisers helps keep your

even during the year’s coldest

skin in tip-top shape. Try

months:

to use a thicker and more

• Drink water: About two

nourishing moisturiser in

“There are a few different things you can do to keep your

litres throughout the day

colder seasons. It may

helps to keep your skin

even be helpful to go as

hydrated. Your skin will look

far as adding a night

clearer if you drink more

cream to your routine.

water and less of other beverages.

46

changes in skin conditions,

• Use sunscreen: To ensure that you have

• Keep a humidifier: It will

healthy and glowing

help keep your skin from

skin, always use sun-

cracking or chapping in the

screen lotion

otherwise dry air.

when you

• Exfoliate: It is still a neces-

are out-

sary step to your skin care

doors.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

having a cakey appearance.

your brown bone, down the

further define your eyes and

• Use a bronzer strategically. It

bridge of your nose and to

make them look attractive

is one of the best ways to get

the inner corner of the eyes.

by adding another coat of

a sun-kissed look. Apply it

Swipe and pat highlighter

mascara or [if you want more

on the apple of your cheeks,

along your cheekbone and

drama] add false lashes to

temples and side of the nose

blend it in for a flawless glow.

bump up your natural lashes.

and follow your cheek and

• Glowing skin is always made

• Lastly brighten up, no night-

jaw contour to sculpture your

better with a touch of blush.

time look is complete without

face.

Apply cream blush to the

a little simmer. That extra

apples of your cheeks for a

sparkle will add just the right

luminate and give dimension

beautiful flush of colour.

amount of details you need

to your face, making it look

• Use a hydrating lipstick with

and make you look like you

a subtle shine. You can also

spent way more time crafting

go for more of a matte finish if

your look.

• A good highlighter will il-

nice and sun-kissed.

Blend it along

that suits you better. Skip lip gloss, it can end up competing with your dewy skin.

Transforming your daytime make-up into a night version imperfections. It

Pretty eyes:

makes your skin look

• Get winged, firstly adding a

healthy and gives off

wing to your bare eye make-

the illusion of an active lifestyle,

up is the best way to add a

whether you have one or not.

little drama and personality to

The foundation, blush, bronzer,

your eyes.

highlighter and setting pow-

• Enhance your lashes, to

der can all help you achieve a healthy, glowing skin.

Instructions: • Use a foundation that matches your skin tone and apply it lightly over your face, blending it down your jaw and neck. Use a stippling brush or a blending sponge to get flawless coverage.

• Use a concealer to hide blemishes or dark spots on your skin but avoid applying it too heavily to keep yourself from

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Playful lips: Add a pop of colour to your lips, especially if you have used neutral tones throughout your face. Reds, pinks, browns and peaches are all good. However, if you want your lipstick to last past the first course or drinks, ensure you are using a lip liner throughout your lips. Also add a lighter pop of colour to the center of the bottom lip to accentuate your pout.

*Mokoena has more than 10 years’ experience in the beauty and hair industry. Her business focuses more on enhancing facial aesthetics through make-up. She is passionate about making each client feel fabulous in their own skin.

You can contact her through email on exiniam@gmail.com; Instagram: exiniabeautybar or Call/WhatsApp: 073 486 7988.

47

More Matshediso

FOOD AND WINE

Pictures: Sourced

Chef

Leigh-Ann Modise’s

recipe for a delightful beef tenderloin

T

he autumn season can be a perfect time

to practice how to prepare delicious home-cooked meals, while keeping

as sautéing (frying quickly in little hot oil)

a family meal.

and blanching by scalding vegetables in boiling water followed by quick, thorough

PSM magazine reached out to Luxury

Beef Tenderloin with a Green Medley

Events Curator and Private Chef Leigh-Ann

“Beef tenderloin is one of the best cuts.

vegetables,” she says.

Modise, who owns Cumin Creations. The

This is a great recipe for a family dish. The

She recommends this recipe for any

main goal of her business is to influence

preparation ensures all nutrients are not

family occasion as delectable. The green

healthy eating across South African homes.

cooked out by using cooking methods such

medley is packed with nutrients.

your kitchen warm and tummies full.

48

In this edition, Modise shares a recipe for

cooling in ice water to keep the crunchy texture and vibrant colour of the green

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

“Broccoli is high in fibre whilst

it horizontally down the mid-

(don’t do it if the kids are at

zuchinni has great skin bene-

dle.

the table, unless you have a

fits, and green beans promotes bone health. The vegetables are a great source to detox and keep regular,” she says.

Ingredients: • Whole beef tenderloin fillet.

• 350g zucchini (marrow squash or courgette).

• Break the broccoli into smaller florets.

glass of milk handy).

• Trim tenderloin (when you

• Cut the tips of the green

buy this specific cut

beans then cut them into

your local butcher

halves.

can always trim it

• Prepare a bowl with ice and water to blanch your vegetables.

• Add vegetables into 500 ml

• 500g broccoli.

boiling water for 5-7 minutes.

• 350g green beans.

Drain excess water.

for you, to make it easier).

• Preheat oven at 180 °C. • Heat up frying pan medium to high

• To stop the green medley

heat, place the fillet

• Meat basting.

(vegetables) from cooking

into the pan and cook

• 60g salted butter.

further add the green medley

each side until seared

• Thyme sprigs ( to baste your

into the ice water to blanch

cook for about 7 minutes

• 60ml extra virgin olive oil.

meat).

• 2 Garlic cloves.

• Salt to taste.

• Pepper to taste.

the vegetables.

• Remove vegetables from the ice water.

• Add olive oil into a saucepan at medium heat. Lightly

on each side. When the fillet is seared to your desired temperature (my favourite is medium rare).

• Add thyme sprigs, garlic

Instructions:

saute the green medley until

cloves, butter and start bast-

• Wash all vegetables and

the vegetables are slightly

ing the meat with a spoon

charred, add salt and pepper

while tilting your pan to fill

for seasoning.

the spoon with the melted

meat until the whole cut is

butter and pour over the

basted.

ensure all soil particles are removed.

• Cut the zucchini tips, then cut

• Add chopped chilli, if desired

• Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper.

• Place the tenderloin into the preheated oven for 2-5 minutes.

• Remove from the oven let it rest for 3 minutes then you can carve it onto a big serving dish with the green medley accompanying this masterpiece.

“Bon Appetit,” she says with excitement.

Usually, beef tenderloin goes well with dry red wine.

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

49

Writer: Lindiwe Khuzwayo, Head of Communication Unit, EThekwini Municipality

TRAVEL

MSC Orchestra Sea Cruise worth the hype I

recently had the opportunity to go aboard the MSC Orchestra Sea Cruise. I can testify that this cruise

was worthy of the hype that it is af-

forded with.

I experienced being in a beautiful floating hotel that sailed from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal to the Portuguese Islands in Mozambique. The cruise takes place almost every week between November and March.

The ship has the capacity of carrying 2 550 guests and 1 000 crew members.

Prices on the cruise vary depending on the cabin that you choose but a trip can cost about R3 800 for three nights per person.

As for the ship’s interior – I was blown away by how beautifully furnished it was. This was a big improvement when compared to the MSC Sinfonia which I was on ten years ago.

50

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

Who should hop on the MSC Orchestra Sea Cruise?

and was inclusive of fresh fruits

were on was dubbed Dineo

tuguese Island and disembark

and salads, which was great.

and Friends. On the decks

because of Cyclone Cheneso

With five restaurants onboard

were Dineo Ranaka, DJ Zinhle,

which is fairly common. Unfor-

This was a relaxed enjoyable

you'll never go hungry. Don't

DJ Sox, DJ Bongz and many

tunately, the weather is a big

holiday and anyone can have

expect 5-star meals though.

more. It was a vibe, think of

factor in sea travel. Despite this,

fun on the cruise, from children

The food was just ok.

the Hollywoodbets Durban

there was enough to keep us

to gogos. The cruise we were

Drinks: There was a variety

July – a horse race held annu-

occupied onboard.

on was a party experience for

of bars with acceptable service.

ally at Greyville Racecourse in

Value for money: Overall,

the young and hip. The scantily

Bare-in mind that drinks can

Durban, but with everyone on a

the experience was value for

dressed crowd dances from

burn a big hole in your budget

pool deck in gorgeous swim-

money as the price includes

14:00 to 04:00. My husband

if you drink like a fish. I suspect

suits. The party lasted until

accommodation and all meals.

and I were among the oldest

drinks are what keeps the

04:00 daily.

Extras were priced in United

people there – the good thing

company afloat. And no, you

Fortunately for us, we only

States dollars which makes

is that we are young at heart.

can't smuggle in your stash

stayed for three nights as any-

them very expensive. This

Accommodation: Cabins

from home.

thing longer would wear us out.

includes drinks, WiFi, photo-

differ according to price. Ours

The ride: The ship was

There were also other activities,

graphs and massages. If you

was a proper hotel room with

surprisingly smooth but in bad

from comedy to theatre shows,

decide not to use any of these

a double bed, couch, coffee

weather, you can feel just a bit

quiz shows and sports.

and stick to what is offered in

table, bar fridge dressing table,

of wobbliness. It was not as

COVID-19 safety: We had to

the restaurant as part of meals

closet, television, ensuite bath-

scary as those who fear the

provide vaccination certificates

(water and juice) you get away

room and patio with outside

sea might think. Most of the

or a negative PCR COVID-19

with a holiday bargain.

seating. I loved it!

time you forget that you are on

test result.

Food: There was plenty of

a ship.

Biggest disappointment: We

food almost round the clock

Entertainment: The trip we

were unable to go to the Por-

Public Sector Manager • April 2023

51

UNITE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Nicholas Francis Pictures: Supplied

T U O K SPEA NOW!

30916

52

086 726 1681 siu@thehotline.co.za www.thehotline.co.za www.thehotlineapp.co.za

Report corruption in government, municipalities and state owned entities to the SIU SIU Hotline: 0800 037 774 @RSASIU Special InvestigatingPublic Unit Sector Manager • April 2023