PSM DEC 2023 / JANUARY 2024 by Government Communication and Information System

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Dr Mike Masiapato

leading the safeguarding of South African borders

Permits to boost

cannabis farming in KwaZulu-Natal DECEMBER 2023 0/ JANUARY 2024

Fight corruption through responsible whistleblowing

Contents:

DEC 2023/ JAN 2024

REGULARS

FEATURES

8. Conversations with leaders

Border Management Authority CEO and Commissioner Dr Mike Masiapato is more than ready to protect South Africa’s national security.

12. Women in the public sector

Predicting the future is Sefura Matlala’s weapon in the fight against corruption.

16. Trailblazer

Chemical Engineer Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya is making waste water safe to use again.

18. Profiles in leadership

National Health Insurance DDG Professor Nicholas Crisp has spent a lifetime committed to public health.

22. Office of the President

Our plan to tackle climate action must leave no one behind.

28 24. Be South Africa’s tourism ambassador

Show off the beauty of SA during the festive season.

28. Creating social value through public-private partnership Investments in SA are bearing fruit.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

28. Mashatile launches SA Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030

SA commits to closing HIV treatment gaps in children.

30. Prof Tladi flies SA flag high at International Court of Justice

The University of Pretoria’s Professor Dire Tladi has been elected a Judge of the International Court of Justice. 32. AGSA elected UNESCO’s auditors

Appointment shows SA is a global force.

34. Use of consultants in the public sector and the need for review

Government must improve how it works with consultants, says

LIFESTYLE

Pension Funds Adjudicator CFO Bulelani Makunga. 36. Permits to change the lives of farmers Investing in the KZN cannabis sector.

42. Grooming and style

Summer holiday must-haves.

38. TIA signs MoU with Milk SA to drive innovation in the 44. Food and wine

dairy sector

Public-private partnership vital in building a strong dairy

A hearty beef Wellington recipe for the holiday season.

industry.

46. Travel

A blissful escape: celebrate special occasions in Zanzibar.

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 Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa Acting Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Terry Vandayar Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Michael Currin

Head of Editorial and Production Zanele Mngadi Zanelemngadi@gcis.gov.za Managing Editor Tshepo Nkosi tshepon@gcis.gov.za 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 | Nonjabulo Ntuli Lindelwa Fuku Graphic Designer Tendai Gonese

Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Regomoditswe Mavimbela

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

FEATURE MINISTER'S MESSAGE

Writer: Sport, Arts and Culture Minister N G Kodwa

Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation F

ollowing the record-breaking

has been a significant year for

fourth Rugby World Cup

South African sport, arts and

title win by the Springboks,

culture.

South Africa’s national men’s rugby

The year began with the Pro-

team, President Cyril Ramaphosa

teas Women’s national cricket

declared 15 December 2023 a

team reaching the Women’s

public holiday to celebrate the

Cricket T20 World Cup for the

team’s momentous achievement.

first time on home soil and has

It is fitting that this celebratory

been heightened by the Spring-

holiday occurs during Recon-

boks’ record-breaking Rugby

ciliation Month and a day before

World Cup victory. South Africa

Reconciliation Day, which is

has also hosted several mega-

dedicated to fostering reconcili-

events such as the Netball World

ation and strengthen unity in the

Cup and the World Rowing

country.

Regatta. Also, Banyana Ban-

The theme for 2023 Reconcili-

yana made the country proud

ation Month is “Strengthening

by reaching the FIFA Women’s

Unity and Social Cohesion in

World Cup Round of 16, the

a Healing Nation”. This theme

first time a senior South African

acknowledges South Africa’s

national football team – men or

continuing journey of heal-

women – progressed from the

ing from past injustices and

FIFA World Cup group stages.

overcoming current challenges.

The Proteas Men’s national

The theme also underscores

cricket also made the nation

the important role of Depart-

creatives, cultural practitioners,

essence of South Africa as a

proud by reaching the semifinals

ment of Sport, Arts and Culture

and athletes play an important

country that values unity and

of the 2023 Men’s Cricket World

in fostering national unity and

role in uniting the country and

social cohesion. This has been

Cup.

social cohesion. South Africa’s

sharing with the world the

clear to see in 2023, in what

It has also been an event-

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

level through the building of multipurpose sports facilities in rural and township schools and staging summer and winter school sport festivals. This year, we also convened a national school sport indaba to unify country’s school sport sector and establish a blueprint for school sport. Our community art centres also provide a space for communities to practice and showcase their creative art talent. As we mark Reconciliation Month, let us continue to remember how far we have come as a country to unite in our rich ful year on the creative and

2024 Grammy Awards. Grammy

craft, and how South Africans

diversity. Let us continue to use sport and the creative sector

artistic front. South African

Award-winning DJ and pro-

and international audiences

amputee dancer, Musa Motha

ducer Black Coffee also made

embrace and celebrate our

to strengthen unity and social

brought judges and crowds

history when he performed at

diverse culture and creative

cohesion. I call on all sport fed-

to tears with breakthrough

Madison Square Gardens in

talent. Our athletes also inspire

erations, clubs and community

performances in the Britain's

New York, becoming the first

unity with their excellence and

art centres to take sports and

Got Talent competition. Opera

South African DJ or producer

unity. The most vivid example

the arts to communities.

singer Pretty Yende continued

to achieve such a feat. Dr

is that of the Springboks, who

The late former President

to raise the country’s flag high

John Kani, who has received

not only show how far South

Nelson Mandela said that sport

on the world’s operatic stages

countless awards, was the fifth

African sport has come in being

unites people in ways little else

and performed at the corona-

recipient of the Department of

representative of the country’s

can. Madiba would be proud to

tion of the United Kingdom’s

Sport, Arts and Culture’s Van

diverse population, but also

see the impact of sport and arts

King Charles III. South Africa’s

Toeka Af Living Legends series,

enjoy great support across all

in building unity in the country.

Amapiano musicians have

and received further recogni-

backgrounds and generations

As South Africa continues its

taken the genre to even greater

tion internationally this year.

in the country.

healing journey, let us use sport

heights internationally. Musi-

South Africa’s creative artists

Government has been work-

and the creative arts to help

cians Zakes Bantwini, Wouter

and athletes inspire and unite

ing hard to deepen the role of

us on this journey to build the

Kellerman and Nomcebo

communities, giving expression

sport, arts, and culture to build

united and cohesive South Af-

Zikode won a Grammy Award

to a winning nation. We have

national unity and to foster

rica we desire. This momentum

this year, while Trevor Noah,

seen this in the way creative

social cohesion in communities.

is especially important as we

Tyla, Just 6 and Musa Keys all

artists incorporate the coun-

One of the priorities has been

enter 30 years since the dawn of

received nominations for the

try’s diverse cultures in their

to develop sport at grassroots

South Africa’s democracy.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Wishing you happy holidays

service delivery.

As we embrace digital

Held under the theme; “Repo-

transformation, we should also

sitioning African Governments

remember that not all South

in the Changing Global Order

Africans have access to digital

and Disorder,” the confer-

platforms while some face

ence highlighted the need for

challenges of high data costs.

proactive leadership, innovative

t is that time of the year again

Our approach should ensure

policies, effective governance

– the end of the year, and for

that no one is left behind. We

structures and sustainable de-

many the festive or holiday

should use available statistics

velopment approaches within

season. Most of us have worked

to ensure that our strategies

African nations.

hard to serve the people of South

are viable.

I wish you happy holidays.

Africa. As we wind down on our

According to Statistics SA’s

Let it be a good time spent

projects, let us use the oppor-

General Household Survey

with family, loved ones and

tunity to take stock of the year

2022, more than three quarters

reaching out to those who are

that has been, to re-evaluate our

of South African households

not privileged to have families

goals – both personally and pro-

(75.3%) are connected to the

or means to make ends meet.

Internet, with over 69.9% of us-

Enjoy the rest and come back

ers nationally accessing the In-

rejuvenated and ready to offer

ternet via their mobile phones,

excellent service to the people

and 61.1% users accessing the

of South Africa. For those who

fessionally, rejuvenate our minds and bodies, and reassess our plans for the year to come.

Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting GCIS Director-General.

The year 2023 has had its fair

also serve our citizens better.

share of challenges. It is a year

with less and improve service

Internet in rural areas. Mobile

will be travelling, please ensure

that we, as public servants and

delivery.

phones are also recorded as

that you are well rested, your

as citizens alike, have had to

As leaders in the public

being the most preferred and

vehicles are safe and roadwor-

embrace change, buckle down

sector, we need to create

used method of accessing

thy, avoid speeding and do not

and adapt to the economic and

clear digital strategies for our

information and new media

drink and drive.

environmental changes. One of

teams. We should build on the

and this number is expected to

To those who feel isolated

the challenges we faced as the

experiences we gained during

increase. The future of Internet

during this season, please

Public Service is the freezing

the COVID-19 pandemic, and

usage in South Africa projects

remember there is always help.

of vacant positions, which has

other challenges and pro-

growth and mobile dominance.

The South African Depression

created a need for us to find

grammes.

We are also privileged to have

and Anxiety Group (https://

ways of doing more with less.

The period pushed us to

sources where we can draw

www.sadag.org/) has 24-hour

As we adjust to this reality,

adopt new methods of work-

information and knowledge. In

toll-free helplines.

we need to ensure that it does

ing, prioritising technology

September 2023, the South

not affect service delivery by

– from online workflows and

African Association of Public

finding ways to work smarter.

virtual meetings to pioneering

Administration and Manage-

With the world moving digital

effective and efficient remote

ment held its 22 Annual confer-

and with technology at our

and hybrid work models. This

ence to foster dialogue around

disposal, we need to equip

has forced us as a public work-

key issues such as economic

ourselves with digital skills.

force to be resilient and use

transformation, social inclusion,

This will not only ensure that

tools such as new and digital

digitalisation, climate change

we move with the times but

media to not only achieve our

adaptation, regional integration,

also help us achieve more

individual mandates but to

governance reforms and public

Helpline numbers:

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT: WASTE ACT, 2008 (ACT NO. 59 OF 2008) DETERMINATION OF THE LICENSING AUTHORITY FOR THE DIFFERENT CLASSES OF LANDFILLS The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Dallas Creecy, hereby, gives notice of her publication of a Government Notice in the Government Gazette, indicating the licensing authority for the different classes of landfills in terms of sections 43(1)(a) and 43(3) of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008). Section 43(1)(a) of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) (NEM: WA) stipulates that the national Minister responsible for the environment is the licensing authority in the instances where the waste management activity involves the establishment, operation, cessation or decommissioning of a facility at which hazardous waste has been or is to be stored, treated or disposed of, unless otherwise indicated by that Minister by notice in the Government Gazette. Section 43(3) of NEM: WA makes provision that the Minister and Members of the Executive Council (MECs) of the provincial Departments responsible for the environment (Waste Management) in the provinces, may agree that an application or applications for waste management licenses regarding any waste management activity of which the Minister has been identified as the licensing authority, may be dealt with by the MEC, and similarly any waste management activity of which the MEC has been identified as the licensing authority may be dealt with by the Minister. The intention of this Notice therefore is to inform the public of the agreements reached between the Minister and the affected MECs, and to clearly indicate who the licensing authority is in specific instances. The Licensing authorities are as follows: a. b. c.

The licensing authority for the disposal of type 1 wastes (hazardous waste), to a class A landfill is the Minister. The licensing authority for the disposal of type 2 wastes (low hazardous waste), to a class B landfill is the Member of the Executive Council responsible for the environment (waste management) in the province. The licensing authority for the disposal of type 3 wastes or type 4 wastes (general waste), to a class C or D landfills, is the Member of the Executive Council responsible for the environment (waste management) in the province.

Any enquiries in connection with the notice can be directed to Ms Mishelle Govender at 082 652 8410, by e-mail to: migovender@dffe.gov.za For communications and media enquires kindly contact: Mr. Peter Mbelengwa at Tel: (012) 399 8842 email: PMbelengwa@dffe.gov.za ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, FISHERIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT Find us: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

Watch us: EnvironmentZA

Call centre: 086 111 2468 Website: www.dffe.gov.za

FEATURE CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

Writer: Sihle Manda Images: GCIS Photographic unit

Safeguarding

South African borders T

he sweltering temperatures had little to do with the fever pitch atmosphere that engulfed the Musina Show Grounds, Limpopo, when President Cyril Ramaphosa lifted the veil on the newly

established Border Management Authority (BMA) in October 2023.

Ululations and chants permeated South Africa’s residual air that began to camouflage with that of neighbouring Zimbabwe about 17 km away. The event was a culmination of an exceptionally beavering 24 months for one man – Dr Mike Masiapato. He is the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Commissioner of the BMA, an entity of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). With over 20 years’ experience in the Public Service, Masiapato is

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

a veteran bureaucrat.

are implemented in the man-

Despite being content with

ner they are supposed to be

his role as executive manager:

implemented. That on its own

monitoring and evaluation

begins to sanitise the port envi-

at the Financial Intelligence

ronment, but more importantly,

Centre, he swiftly rolled up his

enable the country to protect its

sleeves and reported for duty

national security”.

when President Cyril Ramapho-

The BMA – the country’s third

sa appointed him as BMA Com-

law enforcement agency – is a

missioner in November 2021.

single, integrated and efficient

The development was the ze-

authority established to manage

nith of the President assenting

and secure the borders of South

the BMA Bill in 2020.

Africa. It replaces the multi-

Speaking to Public Sector

agency approach that included

Manager magazine, the Com-

the departments of Agriculture,

missioner said the creation of

Land Reform and Rural Devel-

the BMA allows the country to

opment; Forestry, Fisheries and

have a structure with an exclu-

the Environment; Health; and

to absorb affected staff from the

seamless, the integration proved

sive mandate of implementing

DHA; the South African Na-

departments that were operat-

a strenuous exercise,” Masiapato

border laws.

tional Defence Force; the South

ing from the ports of entry.

stressed.

African Police Service (SAPS);

“We made them exit the

“The first thing that we had to

make sure that we are able

and the South African Revenue

departments’ employ and be in

do as part of the process was

to protect the republic from

Service. The functions of these

the employ of the BMA. That on

to identify the functions that the

several challenges; and one of

departments at the borders

its own created an integrated

President had to move through

those is the movement of illegal

were allocated to the BMA.

BMA platform with a single

Section 97 (of the Constitution

people into the republic,” he

As a result, the DHA no longer

command, platform and control

of the Republic of South Africa,

explained.

operates at the ports of entry.

because each port now has a

1996) from those departments

He added that the author-

“They are just at the head of-

commander and that particu-

into the BMA,” he said.

ity has to protect the country

fice and they will also have an

lar commander is accountable

After this, the BMA estab-

from illicit goods, saying these

inspectorate working inside the

across all functions, including

lished work streams that had to

compromise and threaten the

country,” explained the Com-

the function of access control,

facilitate administrative activi-

country’s efforts for economic

missioner.

which is currently done by

ties. These were in the areas of

development and stability.

The agency has gone from a

members of the SAPS,” he said.

human resources, finance, legal

“The intention for that is to

He said the country is moving

one-man operation, in Masia-

From 1 April 2022 until 31

and infrastructure.

from only having “civilians that

pato in November 2021, to a

March 2023, the staff members

“That process included the

are deployed to the ports to do

fully-fledged agency in its own

were incubated within the DHA.

auditing of the land, the physi-

an administrative function. That

right. Reflecting, the CEO bares

That incubation was to ensure

cal infrastructure that must be

has been our biggest shortfall.

his soul on the emotional scars

staff integration and allow for

moved from the Department of

“This is about creating law

the journey has inflicted on him.

the recruitment of additional

Public Works and Infrastructure

employees to capacitate the

to the BMA. When all of this

agency.

had been done, we had to put

“While the recruitment was

together a determination >>

enforcers who are supposed to get to the ports and make sure

Mammoth task

that the laws of the republic

During the period, the BMA had

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

document that must be signed

“All in all, they moved R1.3 bil-

“I had to lead the delegation

guards in 2022.

by the (DHA) Director-General,

lion in operational expenditure

to engage on labour relations.

“That is very much little –

the Chief Financial Officer and,

and for the compensation of

How people’s benefits are going

numbers-wise – to address the

ultimately, the Minister.

employees,” he added.

to be protected; how we are

issue of porous borders, as it

“Once all four Ministers

The BMA is currently in a tran-

going to handle the benefits that

is called. What we then had to

(from affected departments)

sitional period and is expected

some people had in the Public

do was to bring in an additional

had signed the determination

to be fully operational by 1 April

Service. I had to make sure that

400 border guards. As we speak

document, we had to go the

2024.

they are all convinced. I had to

they are at college (Road Traffic

Minister of Public Service and

The task was so hard that, Ma-

travel throughout the country

Management Corporation),” he

Administration to agree with the

siapato last went on leave when

on a roadshow to meet all of

said.

determination and be able to

he was still working for the FIC.

the staff, and they are scattered

The agency is bracing itself

give what is called the Ministe-

“The work is, unfortunately,

across 72 ports of entry.

for a busy festive season as

rial Determination on Public

24/7 – that includes weekends.

“I had to drive all of that work

thousands of travellers pass

Administration – meaning, they

It is very hectic.

and tell them about the transi-

through the country’s borders

are agreeing to moving people

“I came as the Commissioner –

tion. The the act of removing

for holidays.

outside of the Public Service,”

one employee. I had to then get

employees from the Persal

Since June 2022, the BMA has

he explained.

the two commissioners – one

system also presented its own

intercepted 139 stolen vehicles

When these processes were

for operations and the other for

set of complexities.”

and 35 000 people attempt-

concluded, the Minister of

corporate. It meant I had to liter-

About 1 800 employees were

ing to enter the country with

Finance was brought into the

ally drive the entire process”.

moved from the four depart-

no documents. Another 95

fold to shift budgets from the

That, he said, included having

ments to form the agency. This

000 were denied entry due to

respective departments to the

to engage all unions in the Pub-

figure was complemented by

expired passports, visas, among

BMA.

lic Service Bargaining Council.

the recruitment of 221 border

others.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Writer: More Matshediso

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

Images: GCIS Photographic unit

Do the right thing, end corruption

friends, you do not know who they will share that information with and you may end up being victimised,” she explained. She added that reporting corruption responsibly means doing it anonymously. “When they [citizens] come to the SIU, they can trust that we will protect their identities and they need to come with documentary information to support their allegations. The SIU will then do its work,” said Matlala. The SIU is an independent body that is empowered to “firstly, investigate serious malpractices or maladministration in connection with the administration of state institutions, state assets and public money as well as any conduct which may seriously harm the interest of the public and, secondly, institute and conduct civil proceedings in any court of law or Special Tribunal for, amongst others, the recovery of losses suffered by the State and the prevention of further losses”. The SIU recovers and prevents

financial losses to the State n 9 December 2023,

help in the fight against cor-

practice responsible whistle-

caused by acts of corruption,

South Africa joined the

ruption is reporting corrupt

blowing to avoid putting their

fraud and maladministration. In

world in commemorating

elements to law enforcement

lives in danger.

line with the SIU and Special

International Anti-Corruption Day,

agencies.

“If people do not report cor-

Tribunals Act, 1996 (Act 74 of

to raise awareness on corruption

Sefura Matlala, a Senior Man-

ruption responsibly, they are

1996), the SIU refers any evi-

– a global concern that affects

ager for Market Data Analytics

putting their own lives in danger.

dence pointing to criminal con-

both rich and poor countries.

at the Special Investigating Unit

When you report corruption and

duct it uncovers to the National

One of the ways citizens can

(SIU), encourages citizens to

you start talking about it to your

Prosecuting Authority for further

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

action. The SIU also refers

Afterwards, Matlala grabbed

She is now tasked with the

We identify enablers of corrup-

evidence of misconduct to em-

an opportunity to work as

responsibility of developing and

tion, including information from

ployers and regulatory bodies.

the knowledge and research

implementing a data analytics

previous investigations, and

Further, the SIU makes recom-

manager for the Eastern Cape

strategy for the market data

identify who (not a person but

mendations for entities and their

Appropriate Technology Unit

analytics unit, to ensure that

a position) was responsible for

directors/members that are

(ECATU). She also worked

there is capacity, tools and re-

all that,” she added.

found to have been involved in

part-time as a Knowledge

sources for the unit to function

Her job requires her to access

impropriety in State contracts to

Management Specialist at In-

optimally. In terms of capacity,

and collect data from various

be “blacklisted” by being placed

trahealth (funded by the United

she is supposed to lead a team

stakeholders, especially in the

on National Treasury’s database

States Agency for International

of ten and positions are in the

public sector in order to gain

of Restricted Suppliers.

Development), and returned to

process of being advertised

insights.

across different financial years.

Matlala’s career is carved

the ECATU when her contract

through information manage-

ended.

ment over the past 15 years,

Upon return to ECATU, she

after obtaining a Bachelor of

was appointed acting Chief

Information Science Degree

Executive Officer and she was

Fighting corruption through data analytics

and an Honours Degree in

tasked with the responsibility

“Previously, investigations were

to enable that,” she said.

Information Science from the

of migrating the entity into the

conducted using a reactive

“I was given a clean slate. If

University of Limpopo.

Eastern Cape Department of

approach; after the money was

anything fails, I will be respon-

“ It is exciting because the strategy of our organisation requires us to conduct datadriven investigations, and our sub-unit is in the best position

Matlala also holds a three-

Rural Development and Agrar-

misappropriated. With the new

sible because I did not inherit

year Multimedia Diploma in

ian Reform.

approach, we are going to use

the work from anyone. With the

Information Design from the

In 2014, Matlala joined the SIU

market data analytics to help

assistance of our ICT unit, and

National Electronic Media Insti-

as a Knowledge Management

prevent corruption from recur-

other stakeholders I am laying a

tute of South Africa (NEMISA).

Specialist, a position she held

ring,” she explained.

firm foundation for the organi-

She went further to obtain a

until she was appointed into

Matlala and her team use

sation regarding the function-

Master’s Degree in Knowledge

her current job in September

historic data from previous

ing of the new unit, and this is

Management with Multimedia

2022.

investigations to predict the

a highlight of my career,” she

from the Multimedia University

She is the first to hold a

future. Basically, they identify

explained.

of Malaysia, as well as a Mas-

Senior Manager for Market

what went wrong, how it hap-

ter’s Degree in Business Ad-

Data Analytics at the organisa-

pened and why, so that it can

ministration with MANCOSA.

tion because this is a fairly new

be prevented from recurring.

She launched her career as

position that was introduced

“We use predictive modeling,

Strides made in the fight against corruption

an Intern at the South African

after the SIU went through an

most importantly, as a strat-

One of government’s priorities

Broadcasting Corporation. She

organisational development

egy to advise government on

as we approach the 30 years of

also worked as an assistant

process, where it decided to

mechanisms it can employ to

democracy is fighting corrup-

lecturer for Information Design

introduce a new value chain

prevent corruption from recur-

tion. Speaking at the National

at NEMISA for a year and was

which places a premium on the

ring through strategic decision-

Dialogue on Anti-corruption in

later appointed as a Knowledge

implementation of preventative

making processes based on

November 2023, President Cyril

Management Coordinator at

measures to prevent and com-

trends, insights and recom-

Ramaphosa described corrup-

the same institution.

bat of corruption in the country.

mendations that we present.

tion as one of the country’s >>

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Image: Unsplash Jesus Monro-Lazcano

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

“greatest failings”.

recover the monies in recent

With regard to civil litigation

Council (NACAC) – a council

“Corruption has wounded our

years.

achievements between 1998

that advises the President on

democracy and shaken peo-

According to the SIU Trends

and 2023, the report shows

matters related to fighting cor-

ple’s faith in our institutions. If

and Analysis Performance Re-

that a lot of money has been

ruption, in line with the National

corruption is not arrested, the

port released in April 2023, the

recovered:

Anti-Corruption Strategy 2020

greatest damage will not be in

agency received and processed

•

Value of actual cash and

- 2030. Among other areas of

the funds stolen, the jobs lost or

a total of 235 proclamations be-

assets recovered: R4.864

focus, the Council will advise

the services not delivered. The

tween 1998 and 2023, with 31%

billion.

the President on effective imple-

greatest damage will be to the

of them at national government

Value of contracts, adminis-

mentation of the anti-corruption

belief in democracy itself.

level, 34% at provincial govern-

trative decisions or actions

strategy by government, civil society and the private sector.

•

“It is, therefore, our shared re-

ment, 28% at local government

set aside or deemed invalid:

sponsibility, as we celebrate 30

and 8% in State-owned Entities.

R25.236 billion.

years of democracy, to build a

Between October 2018 and

society in which corruption has

March 2023, a total of 5 147

no place,” the President said in

whistleblower allegations were

This is also attributed to the

his keynote address.

referred to the SIU. Matlala said

Special Tribunal that opened

The SIU is one of the bod-

there is an upward trend in

its doors in 2019, and it has

ies that government created to

whistleblower referrals received.

increased the rate of recoveries.

address the challenge. Over 26

The report also shows top

“Combating corruption is

years since its establishment,

five allegations, including 24%

everybody’s responsibility. It

the SIU has positioned itself

pertaining to procurement ir-

is not only the President’s or

as the pre-eminent forensic

regularities, 16% of nepotism or

government’s responsibility,”

investigation and civil litiga-

cronyism, 11% maladministra-

said Matlala.

tion agency in the country. The

tion, 10% bribery or fraud and

The SIU also seconded Mat-

agency has made great strides

10% contract, tender or irregu-

lala as a Secretariat of the Na-

to combat corruption and

larities.

tional Anti-Corruption Advisory

•

Value of potential losses prevented: R27.333 billion. You can contact the SIU on its Hotline: 0800 037 7744 Email: info@siu.org.za Website: www.siu.org.za Twitter/X: @RSASIU Facebook: Special Investigation Unit - South Africa Instagram: @rsasiu

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Writer: Sihle Manda

TRAILBLAZER

Young academic

formulating viable use for wastewater I n her pursuit to contribute to

challenge she is all too familiar

scientists behind some of the

evaluation structured on a set of

the country’s efforts towards

with.

outstanding research done at

criteria.

providing access to clean and

In August 2023, the post-

South Africa’s higher education

The 29-year-old’s research

safe water to rural communities,

doctoral fellow from the Durban

institutions.

focuses on the removal of heavy

upcoming chemical engineer,

University of Technology (DUT)

The ratings-based awards are

metals from wastewater using

Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya,

was granted the Research Excel-

centred on a peer review system

hybridised absorbents.

is putting a positive spin to the

lence Award for Next Genera-

that looks at the research impact

“South African companies

phrase “plumbing new depths”.

tion Researchers at the National

of the nominee over a sustained

produce over 40 million metric

Having grown up in Eman-

Research Foundation (NRF)

period of time. The nominees

tonnes of wastewater annually,

gamazini, on the outskirts of

awards in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal.

for the special awards also go

threatening the environment

eThekwini Municipality, it is a

The awards honours prolific

through an independent peer

and human health. A treatment

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

not think I meet the criteria. So I

“I did not even have money for

came back to Durban to do my

als from wastewater is through

was quite surprised when I was

the CAO (Central Applications

BTech (bachelor of technology),

absorption, however, recovering

chosen,” she said.

Office) to apply to study at the

which I obtained with a distinc-

these absorbents is challenging.

Sibiya says her research topic

different institutions in KwaZulu-

tion,” she explained.

Thus, magnetising agro-waste

was influenced by the fact that

Natal. My teachers at school

Shuddered by the prospects of

absorbents for the removal

chemicals being used to treat

helped me with that because

being unemployed, she decided

of heavy metals will present

water are not suitable for the

they could see my potential,” she

to further her studies.

a unique solution for treating

environment and humans.

said.

“It was during this period that

wastewater for reuse, while miti-

“So finding new ways of treat-

This was a due benefit for be-

I developed this passion for

gating zero waste,” said the NRF

ing water – like waste treatment

ing the school’s top performing

chemical engineering,” she said.

in a statement.

and other sources- could be

pupil and obtaining a bach-

She obtained both her BTech

It noted that Sibiya’s research

key.”

elor’s pass – with four distinc-

and Master of Engineering

findings will aid water, the min-

Carried by the momentum of

tions.

degrees cum laude and is cur-

ing industry and agricultural

being a top achiever when she

Being the first person from

rently enrolled for her PhD at

stakeholders in evaluating the

matriculated with flying colours

her family to go to university,

the DUT. She also has interna-

economic viability of adsorption

from Siphumelele Comprehen-

Sibiya says she barely had any

tional research experience as an

technology.

sive High School in 2012, she

career guidance, which let her to

Erasmus exchange candidate

solution for removing heavy met-

The NRF provides funding

pursued a National Diploma in

choose the field of engineering

at the University of Valladolid,

to postgraduate students to

Chemical Engineering at DUT.

purely for money at the time.

Spain. She has authored six peer

address skills shortages in the

“Coming from a disadvan-

Upon enrolling at the DUT,

reviewed journal articles and

fields of science, engineering,

taged background and being

she was awarded a bursary by

presented at five conferences.

technology, humanities and

raised by grandparents, you be-

Eskom. After completing her

Her research energies are

social sciences by increasing

come determined to go out there

undergraduate she worked for

dedicated to finding solutions for

the possibility of retaining suit-

and become a better person.

the power utility, between 2016

the water-scarcity problem that,

ably qualified young scientists,

Sometimes finances stop you

and 2017.

in the main, affects rural com-

thereby increasing the pool of

from achieving your goals.

“They had to let us go and I

munities.

researchers and knowledge workers in the National System of Innovation. This award recognises outstanding academic performance by final-year doctoral students. Despite being a first year PhD student, Sibiya got the nod. She says it was a proud moment for her to receive the award in her first year of study. “It was a bit of a surprise. My supervisor mentioned that they would be putting my name forward and I told them that I do

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Writer: More Matshediso Images: GCIS Photographic unit

NHI: equal access to quality healthcare A

s South Africa approaches 30 years of democracy, public serv-

ants like Professor Nicholas Crisp – Deputy Director-General (DDG) for the National Health Insurance (NHI) at the National Department of Health (NDoH) – should be celebrated for their dedication to serve South Africans.

A trained medical doctor and public health specialist, Crisp has had an interesting professional journey over the last four decades. His immense contribution in shaping the country’s public health system was recently recognised when he recently received the Public Health Innovation and Lifetime Achievement Award from the Public Health Association of South Africa. The award honours an individual for a lifetime of commitment to public health. In the last 40 years, Crisp has done tremendously well as a medical doctor, medical consultant and public health specialist. His wealth of experience

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Image: DCStudio, on Freepik

include working as Regional

When COVID-19 hit South Af-

an Act, and ensure that it is

already burdened public health

Director for the NDoH in

rica, he was helping the NDoH

implemented. We need the

sector will bleed even more.

Polokwane, Limpopo, working

to draft a plan to implement the

NHI because poor people also

He notes that one of biggest

as a management consult-

NHI as a consultant. He ended

get sick, in fact they get more

challenges faced by the country

ant, helping to set up the then

up helping with the COVID-19

sick than rich people, and just

is that the public health system

Limpopo Department of Health

response, the vaccination pro-

because they are poor does

is currently designed to give

and Welfare and subsequently

gramme, and when the DDG

not mean they should get bad

power to the provinces to run

becoming head of department.

post was advertised, he applied

healthcare,” he added.

the health services, because

He was also part of the

and got the job in 2021.

The NHI is a health financ-

they get their budgets through

team that set up the National

When former Health Minis-

ing system that is designed to

the equitable share, but the

Health Laboratory Service, all

ter Zweli Mkhize and the then

pool funds to provide access

money that the public health

while also doing some work

Director-General (DG) left the

to quality affordable personal

sector gets collectively is only

in Nigeria to help set up the

department, Crisp was appoint-

health services for all South

able to pay for approximately

National Agency for the Control

ed Acting DG.

Africans based on their health

R5 000 per citizen per year.

of AIDS. Crisp also worked as a

“I just happened to be at the

needs, irrespective of their

Meanwhile, Crisp said, about

public health specialist in other

right place at the right time,” he

socioeconomic status.

R27 000 is spent on one person

African countries, including

said modestly.

It seeks to realise universal

per year in the private health

Ghana, Tanzania, Lesotho, Na-

In his current position, Crisp is

health coverage for all South

sector, and the sector is more

mibia and Botswana.

tasked to ensure that the NHI is

Africans and ensuring that

independent, autonomous and

Crisp was also involved in set-

implemented, and that eve-

services are delivered closest to

unruly because it has no proper

ting up the National Forensic

rybody understands what the

where people live or work.

regulations.

Pathology Services as well as

health insurance is all about.

Should the NHI not be im-

“Part of the problem of the

the South African Health Prod-

“My job is to take the NHI

plemented or be delayed any

lack of regulation of pricing is

ucts Regulatory Authority.

Bill, which will soon become

further, Crisp worries that the

because there was a >>

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

court case some years ago

prevent diseases.

ment [NDoH] recently submit-

in which mechanisms must

that prevented the department

“We should be investing more

ted the last written responses

be put in place for the NHI to

(NDoH) from regulating the

on community healthcare work-

for comments and hearings to

be implemented. The second

prices. So, it has become dif-

ers and nursing staff who work

the NCOP, and the provinces

phase, 2026 – 2028 will be for

ficult to manage,” he explained.

in communities so that when a

must give a mandate on what

the actual implementation.

He says he finds it unrealistic

resident has a minor problem,

they are voting for, and if they

For such government projects

for people to expect to have the

we are able to deal with it im-

vote in favour of the Bill, the

to succeed, Crisp urges public

same kind of environment or

mediately and not wait for their

President will then sign it into

servants to serve the public

several specialists and health-

condition to be bad and be sent

law, clause by clause,” explained

and dedicate themselves to

care workers in both sectors

to the hospital,” he added.

Crisp.

the work they get paid for with

He added that the Bill con-

public money, and not tolerate

while the public health sector

NHI progress

sists of two phases, includ-

even the smallest form of fraud

“About 2/3 of all the medical

For the NHI to be implemented,

ing the 2023 – 2026 period

or corruption.

specialists in the country work

there must be an Act or a statu-

in the private sector, but they

tory legal mandate.

only look after 15% of the popu-

“Currently, the country has the

lation [who currently afford to

National Health Act, 2003 (Act

pay],” he said.

61 of 2003) and the Medical

Now more than ever, he

Schemes Act, 1998 (Act 131

believes the NDoH should get

of 1998) and neither of them

most of the population to ac-

allows us to do what we want

cess the much-needed special-

to do. We need a new piece of

ised care.

legislation to fill that gap,” he

“We are trying to have one

explained.

benefit package that we are

In 2019, the NHI Bill was

all entitled to and not nine

tabled in Parliament but the

provincial packages plus 308

country was hit by COVID-19

private healthcare packages

pandemic, causing a delay to

that currently exist. Once the

the process.

NHI is implemented, it will not

In June 2023, the National

matter whether you are a public

Assembly voted in favour of

or private healthcare worker.

the Bill. It was then sent to the

The services that you deliver

National Council of Provinces

to a patient (regardless of their

(NCOP), and to the provincial

income or social status) should

legislatures for distribution

be the same,” he explained.

and for public hearings to take

He raised concern over the

place.

fact that the country’s health-

“We have participated in pres-

care system is more specialised

entations in each province, and

and hospital-orientated, when

in about 60 public hearings that

in fact it should be designed to

ended in October. The depart-

Image: Rawpixel on Freepik

only spends 1/5 of the money.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

Image: GCIS Photographic unit

Our plan to tackle climate action must leave no-one behind W

e recently returned from the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai,

known as COP28, where important deci-

sions taken so far will affect the future of our planet.

The discussions at COP28 have significant implications for our country and people. The impact of climate change is a measurable reality in South Africa, with poor, rural communities in particular bearing the brunt. While in Dubai, I visited the South Africa pavilion, where I was shown a striking artwork called the Umlibo tapestry. It was made by a group of rural women from Hamburg in the Eastern Cape. Woven in the tapestry are images that tell a story of the impact of climate change on rural coastal communities in the province struggling with extreme weather patterns, declining fish stocks and constrained livelihoods. The Umlibo tapestry communicates the urgent and personal impact of climate change on one particular community.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

There are hundreds, thousands

stations are located.

renewable energy procurement

change is a step in the right

and millions more communities,

The overriding message

programme, biodiversity and

direction, but it will need sub-

in South Africa, on the African

we took to COP28 is that our

conservation management, air

stantial funding if it is to fulfil its

continent and across the Global

climate commitments will be

quality management, as well

purpose.

South who are being negatively

implemented in a manner that

as successful natural resource

For the transition to lower

affected by climate-change

both addresses our current

management programmes such

carbon economies to be just,

induced extreme weather.

energy crisis and strengthens

as Working on Fire, Working

affected communities cannot

A central part of South Africa’s

our efforts to reduce poverty

for the Coast and Working for

live on promises. Workers and

response to this crisis is the

and unemployment.

Water.

communities currently depend-

Just Energy Transition (JET)

Our JET Implementation Plan,

But if we are to implement

ent on coal and other fossil fuel

Investment Plan 2023-2027,

therefore, focuses on expand-

these and the other actions

industries need viable alterna-

which outlines the actions we

ing investment in transmission

outlined in the JET Investment

tive livelihoods.

need to take and the invest-

networks, investment in new

Plan we – like all other develop-

As a country in the midst of

ments that we need to make to

energy vehicles and harness-

ing economies – will require

an energy crisis, we were clear

meet our climate targets.

ing the potential of the green

massive financial support from

at COP28 that the pace of our

The plan, which we an-

hydrogen economy.

those countries whose devel-

just energy transition will be

nounced at COP27 last year,

Decarbonising our energy

opment has been the primary

guided by our developmental

outlines the path towards

sector has become even more

cause of climate change. The

priorities. Our JET Implementa-

reducing the carbon emissions

urgent in the face of carbon

countries that have contrib-

tion Plan makes it clear that

of our energy sector, which is

border taxes and other meas-

uted most to global warming

we can take effective action

the largest contributor towards

ures being taken by developed

must support those countries

against climate change while

South Africa’s total greenhouse

economies in the name of

that now bear the brunt of its

pursuing energy security for all

gas emissions.

fighting climate change. These

effects.

our people.

The plan focuses on invest-

measures are going to hurt

South Africa expressed its

Even as we confront several

ment in electricity infrastruc-

many countries with develop-

concern that developed econo-

challenges, we are clear about

ture, new energy vehicles,

ing economies, making their

mies are still not meeting their

the path we must take to tackle

green hydrogen, skills develop-

exports less competitive and

obligations to support develop-

climate change and protect our

ment and municipal electricity

making them bear the eco-

ing countries with the finance,

country from its effects.

distribution.

nomic burden of climate action.

technology and capacity build-

In pursuing a measured, real-

It emphasises that this transi-

It is for these reasons that the

ing needed for effective climate

istic and sustainable transition

tion must be underpinned by

South African delegation to

actions. The funding that has

towards a low-carbon economy

engagement and in partnership

COP28 spoke out against these

been channelled through

and society, our foremost prior-

with workers, communities,

unilateral actions.

entities like the Green Climate

ity is that we secure the future

business and civil society. Im-

As a country, we already have

Fund and Adaptation Fund has

of all South Africans and that

portantly, the plan also includes

sustainable, measurable and

been negligible.

we leave no-one behind.

interventions to support af-

science-driven programmes in

The operationalisation at

fected communities, notably in

place to adapt to and mitigate

COP28 of a fund to help vulner-

Mpumalanga, where most of

the effects of climate change.

able countries with loss and

was first published

our country’s coal-fired power

These include a successful

damage caused by climate

4 December 2023.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

The President’s message

Writer: More Matshediso

FEATURE

Be South Africa’s tourism ambassador A

s the festive season approaches, South Africans will be pack-

ing their bags to various holiday destinations for a well-deserved rest after a year of hard work.

The good thing is that South Africa has a lot of wonderful tourist attractions and establishments that you can explore while supporting and helping local businesses grow. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has called on all South

country, its residents and its

Africans to be tourism ambas-

visitors; to provide for the con-

to venture to other parts of the

were close to 1.8 million jobs in

sadors for the country.

tinued existence of the South

world when we have it all here.

the travel and tourism sector in

“We must advertise and

African Tourism Board; to

We only need to make the

South Africa in 2021. This was

share our experiences at the

provide for the establishment

bookings and get out there to

an increase of 1.9% compared

many diverse tourism offerings,

of the Tourism Grading Council

explore and enjoy all the won-

to the previous year when the

especially in the age where

and to regulate the tourist

ders South Africa has to offer,”

contribution of the sector was

social media is so widely used,

guide profession.

Minister de Lille said.

around 1.6 million jobs.

and by sharing our experi-

The Department of Tourism is

ences, we help to market

further mandated to enhance

the country as a destination

the tourism sector’s contri-

to people all over the world through what we share online,”

“Every time we undertake local travel we are supporting

bution to national priorities

Growing the economy and creating jobs

such as creating a conducive

According to Statics South

table and create jobs. The more

she said during the launch of

atmosphere for the private

Africa, the travel and tourism

we support them, the quicker

Tourism Month in September

sector to grow the economy

sector contributed nearly 3.2%

they can expand, contribute

2023.

and create jobs.

to South Africa’s Gross Do-

more to the economy and cre-

Her department’s role is to

“There is an abundance of

mestic Product (GDP) in 2021,

ate more jobs for our people,”

provide for the development

beautiful things to see and

surpassing agriculture, utilities,

Minister de Lille said.

and promotion of sustainable

amazing things to do in South

and construction.

The Minister added that

tourism for the benefit of the

Africa. We do not always have

It further states that there

domestic travel between

South African businesses and helping them to put food on the

Public Sector Manager • November 2023

January and March of 2023 saw

June 2022. The total number of

welcomed 1 714 501 visitors

The Asia region almost

overnight trips exceed pre-

tourist arrivals to South Africa

from this region. To elaborate,

doubled its figures with 99.5%

COVID-19 levels as well as 2022

between January and June 2023

Africa land arrivals increased by

growth, from 47 912 to 95 596

levels by 41%. Between Janu-

showed a sizable 78.2% surge

a significant 81.6% while Africa

visitors.

ary and March 2023, overnight

in the first half of 2023 when

air recorded a growth of 44.5%

Europe, the largest source

domestic spend was also up

compared to the same period

between January to June this

of visitors outside Africa, also

24.4% compared to the same

in 2022. There has also been a

year when compared to the

experienced solid growth of

period in 2022.

substantial increase across all

same period last year.

66.8% from 356 352 to 594 388

The expenditure from holiday

regions in the same period,” she

“We are pleased with the

visitors compared to the same

trips in the first three months of

added.

number of visitors that our

period in 2022.

2023 was R9.5 billion compared

Although the current growth

country continues to receive

North America, Central and

to R7.9 billion in 2022. The total

demonstrates signs of recovery,

from the rest of the African

South America, and the Mid-

number of nights spent away

the Minister said the country

continent. Africa remains a key

dle East also demonstrated

from home reached 27. 9 million

was still operating at 80% of

source market for us, and we

strong growth trends with rates

and this was a 32. 9% increase

its pre-pandemic capacity as

are committed to collaborating

of 70.6%, 74.4%, and 75.8%

over the same period.

August 2023. This is because

as a tourism sector to ensure

respectively.

She added that domestic

in 2019, South Africa welcomed

we welcome visitors from this

“These robust figures show-

holiday trips from January to

more than 5 million tourists

region and that we cater for

case South Africa’s charm

March 2023 were up by 40.5%

between January and June.

their needs and preferences,”

and attractiveness as well as

compared to 2022 to reach 2.4

Minister de Lille noted that the

she said.

the work that we are doing in

million. Between January and

largest share of tourist arriv-

Between January and June

marketing South Africa as a

March 2023, day trips grew by

als still come from the African

2023, the Australasia region

tourist destination of choice,”

26.9% to reach 44.7 million. The

continent. A total of 3 083 583

(which comprises Australia,

the Minister said.

top three provinces visited were

tourists that arrived in South

New Zealand and some neigh-

Through various tourism mar-

Gauteng, Limpopo and the

Africa between January and

bouring islands in the Pacific

keting strategies, South Africa

Eastern Cape.

June 2023 came from the rest of

Ocean) recorded an increase of

continues to invite travellers

the continent.

141% with 50 882 visitors com-

worldwide to explore its diverse

This is a 79.9% increase when

ing from this region compared

landscapes, rich cultural herit-

compared to the same period

to 21 108 arrivals in the same

age, and unique wildlife and

last year when South Africa

period last year.

wide open spaces.

Increase in tourist arrivals After the COVID-19 pandemic’s negative impact on the tourism sector through lockdowns and travel restrictions locally and abroad, the Minister is impressed that the sector now exhibits strong recovery with the first half of 2023 recording more than four million tourist arrivals to South Africa. “This is a significant increase from the 2.3 million tourist arrivals between January and

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

FEATURE

Writer: Sihle Manda

Creating social value through public-private partnership

serene late-morning sun-

on developments pledged at the

mixed cement permeating the air

Serenity Hills Eco-estate on

rise gently caresses the

South Africa Investment Confer-

set to greet the delegation led by

Old Izotsha Road, in the Ray

jaded early August coastal

ence (SAIC).

Deputy Ministers Kenneth Mo-

Nkonyeni Local Municipality, in

winter breeze as a Ministry in The

The placid setting is a disguise

rolong and Nomasonto Motaung.

KwaZulu-Natal. On the same day,

Presidency contingent descends

for the faded hammering and

The setting is the R800 million

the two Deputy Ministers made a

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

stopover at the R500 million Re-

157 commitments made at

“We have also had some ele-

much-vaunted District Develop-

nishaw Coastal Precinct project

previous SAIC instalments in re-

ments of community upliftment,

ment Model (DDM) were being

in Umdoni Municipality.

sponse to President Ramapho-

where there has been a transi-

realised.

The Serenity Hills Eco-estate

sa’s ambitious 2018 drive to at-

tion from employment to self-

“We have assembled different

project in Margate, is meant to

tract R1.2 trillion in investments

employment for a number of

municipalities as a demonstra-

attract foreign investment while

over five years. By 2023, pledges

individuals that were involved,”

tion of the DDM approach. We

uplifting local communities in

exceeded the target by 26%.

said the Deputy Minister.

represent the national govern-

He added that the success of

ment there is that coordination

the mid-South Coast. It has

Public-private sector partnership

the projects is a good exam-

from all spheres of government.

rican Economic Reconstruction

ple of what can be achieved

From the DDM point of view,

and Recovery Plan after being

Speaking to Public Sector Man-

through public-private sector

there is synergy with respect to

honoured by President Cyril

ager magazine, Deputy Minister

partnership.

planning and implementation.

Ramaphosa at the 5th SAIC in

Morolong said the event was

“This is an indicative barom-

We hope it goes beyond that

April 2023.

significant as it “showcased the

eter of what government can

and affect budgeting”.

It features 25 amenities and in-

tangible work that has been

achieve working together with

“Of the 152 investment an-

cludes a 15 to 20 bed hotel, 600

done by government working

the private sector to grow the

nouncements made previously,

one to four-bedroomed residen-

with the private sector. In the

economy and to ensure that

45 projects have already been

tial units, and a small step-down

first instance, you know that

South Africa realises its full

completed, while a further 57

healthcare facility. Construction

five years ago, the President

potential”.

projects are currently under

of infrastructure has com-

commenced a journey to attract

Investment pledges made at

construction. These investments

menced and first occupancy is

investment in infrastructure

the SAIC have over the years

have resulted in new factories,

expected in November 2023.

development, to invest in the

ranged from various sectors.

call centres, solar power plants,

The Renishaw Coastal Precinct

growth of the economy, to really

“One of the key projects that

undersea fibre optic cables, ex-

is a 1 300-hectares mixed-use

see investment in all facets of

have been achieved as a result

pansion of production lines and

development on the KwaZulu-

growth.”

of the SAIC is the undersea

the adoption of new technolo-

Natal mid-South Coast. It is

He added that the two projects

fibre cables installations, which

gies,” said the Deputy Minister.

considered one of the country’s

are an indicative barometer of

exemplifies the kind of work that

Propelled by the success of

biggest developments under-

the strides made through the

government wants to do.

the SAIC, President Ramaphosa,

way.

successive SAIC.

“We can also indicate that

in April, set a R2 trillion target

The precinct is a mixed use

“This has been a really huge

these projects have ranged from

for South Africa to achieve over

property development (residen-

opportunity for us to interface

solar plants, power plants, to the

the next five years.

tial, educational, medical, resort,

with the tangibles, which are a

building of factories, the installa-

The investments have signifi-

commercial, retail and light

consequence of commitments

tion of optic fibre, to the adapta-

cantly contributed to the coun-

industrial projects.) With five

that were made at the invest-

tion of new technologies. There

try’s national goals of socio-eco-

nodes planned to be developed,

ment conference.”

have been great strides made

nomic development to create

construction has commenced

On Renishaw, Morolong

and more is yet to come”.

sustainable jobs, and reduce

for nodes one and three. The

described the development as

first three nodes entail residen-

“quite an advanced project”.

tial housing, hospital, school,

Morolong revealed that the pro-

District Development model

shopping center and filling sta-

ject, which is in its sixth phase

Beyond this, he elaborated,

local production and encouraged

tion developments

has also created opportunities

government was proud to have

efforts to buy local.

The developments are among

for local people.

illustrated that the ideals of the

been included in the South Af-

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

poverty and inequality. These investments have also contributed to a substantial increase in

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Mashatile launches

SA Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030

eputy President Paul

Day as an opportunity

Mashatile has of-

to strengthen unity to

ficially launched the

fight against HIV, support

South African Chapter of the

those living with HIV, and

Global Alliance to End AIDS

remember those who suc-

in Children by 2030, led by

cumbed to AIDS-related

his wife, Humile Mashatile.

illnesses.

“We are concerned with

Globally, he said only

HIV treatment gaps in

52% of children who are

children. Children living

living with HIV are on

with HIV aged 15 years

life-saving treatment,

and below are left behind

compared to 76% of the

in the global HIV response

adult population.

when compared to the

According to the Dep-

general population,” he

uty President, this results

said.

in children accounting

The country’s second-in-

for 15% of AIDS-related

command was speaking

deaths on an annual basis

at the official commemo-

despite the fact that 4% of

ration of World AIDS Day

people living with HIV are

as Chairperson of the

children.

South African National

Meanwhile, he said

AIDS Council (SANAC)

stigma, discrimination,

at the Mandeni Local

punitive laws and poli-

Municipality in KwaZulu-

cies, violence, and gender

Natal.

inequalities in Eastern and

He described World Aids

Southern Africa remain

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

some of the barriers that hinder

by coordinating United Nations

by strengthening case finding

“Collectively, we should strive

access to treatment, care, and

agencies, including the United

among HIV-exposed infants

to ensure universal access to

support for women, girls, and

Nations Children's Fund and the

and children and scaling up the

treatment, eliminate mother-

children.

World Health Organisation.

initial HIV regimen to pregnant

to-child transmission, and

“Unfortunately, South Africa

The other partners include

and breastfeeding women as

confront prevailing prejudice

has the largest population of

the United States President’s

per the revised clinical guide-

and discrimination to foster a

children living with HIV in the

Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief

lines.

society that accepts and sup-

world, and as of June 2023, our

and the Global Fund, together

Meanwhile, government aims

ports all individuals living with

treatment coverage for children

with civil society, in establishing

to also boost regular retesting

HIV, including our children.

is alarmingly low, coming in at

the Global Alliance to end AIDS

of pregnant and breastfeeding

“Together, we have the power

67%.”

in Children by 2030.

women, increasing access to

to end the epidemic of HIV and

He said the data raises con-

“The proclamation was first

social protection programmes

AIDS,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

cerns and emphasises the ur-

made at the 24th International

and addressing gender-based

gent need for increased efforts

AIDS Conference in Canada in

violence and femicide, sexual

and resources to guarantee that

2022. South Africa was among

assault, and abuse of infants,

every child who is HIV-positive

the first 12 countries to join this

children, adolescents, and

receives the care and treatment

alliance. As the South African

women.

they require.

Government, we are determined

Government will also work

In response to this chal-

to fulfil our commitment to end

around the clock to scale up

lenge, government is working

AIDS in children,” he stressed.

advocacy for the enforcement

with the Joint United Nations

This, according to the Deputy

of laws and the administration

Programme on HIV and AIDS,

President, could be achieved

of justice.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

FEATURE

Source: SAnews Image: DIRCO

Prof Tladi flies SA flag high at International Court of Justice P

resident Cyril Ramaphosa

personal achievement in which

specialised agencies.

has sent his warm congrat-

the nation shares with great

The Court comprises of 15

ulations to Professor Dire

pride.

judges who are elected for terms

Tladi of the University of Pretoria

“We appreciate the confidence

of office of nine years by the

on his election by the United

expressed by the United Nations

UN General Assembly and the

Nations (UN) as a judge of the

in Prof Tladi’s capabilities. He

Security Council.

International Court of Justice.

becomes the newest member

Tladi is a leading international

In May 2023, Cabinet

of a fraternity of South Africans

law scholar whose accomplish-

endorsed Tladi’s nomination

globally, who are in positions of

ments span different areas of

by the South African Govern-

service to the international com-

the field, including academic,

ment, together with South

munity and making important

government service, diplomatic

Africa’s membership on the

contributions to the better world

and practice.

Permanent Court of Arbitration.

we seek to build.

He is Professor of International

President Ramaphosa said

“We wish Prof Tladi well as

Law at the University of Pretoria

that Tladi’s election

he prepares to contribute to

and serves as President of the

as a judge of the

the Court and its jurisprudence

South African Branch of the

International

from the Palace of Peace in The

International Law Association

Court of

Hague, Netherlands,” the Presi-

and Executive Member of the

dent said in a statement.

International Law Association.

an out-

The International Court of

He has served as Chair of the

stand-

Justice is the principal judicial

International Law Commission,

ing

organ of the UN and one of the

an organ of the UN generally re-

six principal bodies of the UN.

garded as a feeder body for the

The court’s role is to settle, in

International Court of Justice.

accordance with international

He was previously, a legal

Justice is

law, legal disputes submitted

adviser of the South African Mis-

to it by states and to give

sion in New York and special ad-

advisory opinions on legal

viser to South African Ministers

questions referred to it by

of International Relations.

authorised UN organs and

– SAnews.gov.za

Public Sector Manager • October 2023

Source: AGSA

FEATURE

Images: AGSA

AGSA elected UNESCO’s auditors T

he Auditor-General of

employees. We dedicate this

chelles) that have complete

signment. “We will diligently

South Africa (AGSA)

celebration to all the citizens of

independence to carry out their

carry our country’s flag in pro-

has been elected as the

our country”.

audit mandates in their respec-

moting the auditing profession”.

external auditor of the United Na-

UNESCO is a specialised

tive countries.

She adds that UNESCO will

tions Educational, Scientific and

agency of the United Nations

“I extend words of apprecia-

obtain “maximum benefit from

Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

(UN) that aims to promote

tion and special thanks to our

our integrated approach that

for the 2024 – 2029 term. After

world peace and security

government, especially the

combines financial audit with

a rigorous bidding process, UN-

through international coopera-

departments of International

compliance and performance of

ESCO announced South Africa’s

tion in education, arts, science

Relations and Cooperation and

the institution”.

supreme audit institution (SAI) as

and culture. It has over 190

Basic Education for showing

#TeamAGSA will provide

its new auditors.

member states and 12 associ-

confidence in the national audit

insights into critical education

Auditor-General Tsakani

ate members, as well as part-

office’s capabilities and sup-

aspects that contribute to im-

Maluleke has welcomed the

ners in the non-governmental,

porting us through the process,”

proving the quality of teaching

news saying, “As the national

intergovernmental and private

says Maluleke.

and learning skills develop-

audit office, we are delighted at

sectors.

As UNESCO’s external audi-

ment. It will assess how effec-

this international endorsement

Over the years, the AGSA has

tors, the AGSA’s responsibilities

tively, efficiently and economi-

of our capabilities and the qual-

built an international reputation

will include issuing a report

cally UNESCO donor funding

ity of our auditing. This is good

as an SAI with solid auditing

on the financial statements

is used; deliver improved root

news for our country and dem-

and governance systems. In

and relevant schedules of the

cause analysis of the detailed

onstrates that we are a global

2021, the World Bank ranked

UN agency, its institutes and

findings; and offer better, more

force to be reckoned with. It

the audit office as one of two

related functions.

impactful recommendation that

also recognises the hard work

national audit offices in the

Maluleke says her team is

will lead to more effective cor-

of the more than 3 700 AGSA

world (the other being Sey-

ready to take on this new as-

rective actions.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

OPINION

Writer: Bulelani Makunga, CFO; Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator

Use of consultants in the public sector and the need for review

outh Africa is faced with

nancial statements for 31 March

while transferring the capabili-

critical responsibilities assigned

tough fiscal choices under

2022, over R15 billion was spent

ties, knowledge and building

to them, and they continue with

an economic environment

on consultants, contractors,

internal capacity. However, this

zero consequences.

characterised by high inflation,

and outsourced services in the

rarely occurs as this relation-

As part of the Professionali-

subpar economic growth and,

2021/22 financial year. This fig-

ship has been characterised by

sation of the Public Service, a

currently, with the ugliest record

ure is a conservative aggregate

costly, low quality service de-

skills and competency audit is

of income inequality and youth

considering that services relat-

livery outcomes with increased

critical to identify areas where

unemployment numbers. Some

ing to capital projects, training,

dependency on consultants.

there are capacity challenges

argue that we are on the edge

travel, repairs and maintenance

All this to the detriment of the

and areas for development.

of a precipice and these difficult

which are usually outsourced,

public institution mandated to

The question must always be

choices cannot be deferred any

are not included. These costs

deliver goods or services and

asked, and answered, as to

further. A clear low-hanging fruit

are increasing at above infla-

ultimately, the citizens.

why a service has to be out-

is improving public sector spend-

tion without any tangible value-

In its general reports the

sourced if there is currently an

ing efficiencies without compro-

add that accrue to the public.

Auditor-General of South

incumbent employed to fulfil

mising the quality of the delivery

The use of consultants by

Africa has consistently raised

those duties. This includes an

of basic services such as health,

government is driven by several

concerns regarding the effec-

objective review and scrutini-

sanitation, education and roads

factors, including budget con-

tive use of consultants, which

sation of the needs assessment

infrastructure.

straints, vacancies in key posi-

include inadequate documen-

done to motivate for the need

A key area of interest is

tions and lack of qualified per-

tation, ineffective contract man-

to use an expert. Public sector

optimisation of spending on

sonnel responsible for critical

agement, poor project manage-

would perhaps need to radi-

consultant fees. It is no secret

areas. Consultants are meant

ment that results in goods or

cally shift the manner in which

that our public service is heavily

to supplement these shortcom-

services delivered at poor qual-

contracting for expert use is

reliant on consultants for the

ings by bringing in expertise

ity or not delivered at all. The

governed. This must include

delivery of critical public goods

and specialised knowledge,

main root cause being, public

robust performance manage-

and services. According to Na-

flexible additional resources,

officials that are not qualified

ment, consequence manage-

tional Treasury consolidated fi-

efficiencies and costs savings,

or capable to deliver on the

ment for transgressions and

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

waste of resources to promote

All these factors combined have

centralised (for big value

In conclusion, there is no

responsibility and accountabil-

a significant influence on the

contracts) procurement and

doubt that South Africa is facing

ity for public officials involved.

poor service delivery we see

contract management;

several significant challenges

This could be coupled with a

today and further erode public

effective testimonial-based

that require tough choices to be

•

focused talent management

trust and confidence in govern-

evaluation of bidding con-

made. Addressing this includes

strategy to develop and capaci-

ment.

sultants on their expertise

a focus on efficient spending to

prior to appointment;

ensure value for money and the

clearly defined performance

review of the business relation-

metrics;

ship between the public sector

retainer fees for knowledge

and its consultants. Given the

tate the talented, motivated and dedicated civil servants.

Recommendations

•

Indeed, there are no sacred

National Treasury issued a prac-

cows. There is no need to re-

tice note to guide the appoint-

mind anyone of the involvement

ment of consultants a few years

transfer with stringent con-

capacity challenges faced

of big firms implicated in the

ago, however this has not had

ditions; and

public institutions, with robust

Zondo State Capture Commis-

the desired impact as discussed

regarding the relationship

performance management for

sion. Even ‘post’ state capture,

above and may need to be

with consultants, a memo-

non-performing officials, use of

public sector Chies Financial

reviewed. Recommendations to

randum of understanding

consultants will remain inte-

Officers continue to experience

improve the use of consultants

between respective industry

gral to government’s resource

instances of overpriced goods

from the public sector perspec-

bodies and the public sector

planning and delivery of basic

and services, poor quality work,

tive include:

must be established. It must

services. However, the business

lack of good faith in contract-

•

having clearly defined

emphasise the need for prin-

interaction with consultants

ing with hidden terms and

project goals and needs

cipled and honest contract-

must be principled, fair, in good

conditions that inflate costs

assessment approved at a

ing that elevates provision of

faith and in the public interest

significantly above budget and

more accountable level of

sustainable public services

to ensure public goods and ser-

manipulation of outcomes to

delegation;

as a common goal for all

vices are provided optimally.

open, competitive and

parties to the contract.

guarantee future dependency.

•

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

•

Source: Gabi Khumalo

FEATURE

Images: DARD

Permits to change the lives of farmers A

group of farmers have dispelled the myth that government initiatives seldom have an impact on the lives of ordinary, real people.

Recently, 664 hemp and cannabis farmers, who are on the KwaZulu-Natal Agricul-

ture and Rural Development (DARD) database, received permits which grants them authorisation to cultivate, store and transport content with a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) of not more than 0.2%. THC is the major psychoactive component and one of the 113 cannabinoids recognised in cannabis. What does the handing over of the permits mean you ask? It means that the permits, handed over at a provincial Cannabis Expo and Conference, held at Okhahlamba Sports Complex in Bergville, will enable the farmers to have access to cutting edge technology through an analytical lab based at Cedara in uMgungundlovu District Municipality, near Pietermaritzburg. To grow the local sector, the MECs of the provincial departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) invited captains of industry, including experts, academics, Amakhosi and local growers to a two-day expo and conference to share ideas that will grow the sector to its full potential. Held under the theme: “One love, one heart,” the event provided a platform for local cannabis and hemp farmers, and others with an interest in the sector to engage with business and academia. Among the issues under discussion were that of regulations, registration, production, agro processing and exports. Local businesses that will be providing services to permit recipients were granted R300 000 each. Services include processing, erecting tunnels and providing lab equipment, packaging, testing, and finding a market for the farmers.

Masterplan The first citizen of the province, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the expo and conference will be etched in the minds of the people, as the starting point of a “new era for the cannabis sector in the province.” Dube-Ncube noted that many milestones had been achieved through the KZN Cannabis Masterplan.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

“Through DARD, we have set

of rolling out district-based ca-

Meanwhile, DARD MEC Super

beginning of great things for her

aside an amount of R47 million

pacity building programmes un-

Zuma said the province has

small business of hair products,

for cannabis research. We have

der the umbrella of the proposed

worked steadfastly and the time

noting that the success of the

allocated R10 million to assist

KZN Cannabis Association.

farmers in cannabis production

to unlock the province’s prosper-

products relies on hemp seed oil.

ity through the hemp and can-

“I applied for my permit in July

nabis sector, had now arrived.

because I want to start extract-

and hemp permit application.

Reaping the rewards

“We have facilitated an invest-

EDTEA MEC Siboniso Duma

“We have ensured a smooth

ing oil to use in our hairspray.

ment commitment of R120 mil-

said the expo had been a suc-

process for our hemp permit

We also manufacture shea butter

lion and we have participated in

cess and that the work by both

holders and we covered all their

which will soon be hemp infused.

the Cannabis and Hemp Phakisa

EDTEA and DARD was just

costs. We are winning the fight

“This permit will allow my busi-

Action Lab in order to secure

beginning.

to alleviate poverty and unem-

ness to grow and I have a vision

much-needed policy coherence

“We want our farmers to be

ployment and we are extremely

of owning a manufacturing plant

and to ensure closer collabora-

the champions of the cannabis

proud of the ongoing collabora-

which will open up job opportu-

tion amongst government enti-

sector and we want them to be

tive work that continues behind

nities,” Shezi said.

ties," she explained.

able to speak for themselves. We

the scenes, and I must say all our

The owner of Old Grey Dis-

This is a pilot projects target-

are giving them an assignment

collaborative efforts have yielded

tillery, which manufactures

ing commercial growers are

to come closer to us because

fruit,” Zuma said.

cannabis infused beverages in

ongoing, and the province has

what we have started together,

Permit recipient from the

Johannesburg, Derek Collard

supported several investment

will change people’s lives,” Duma

Umzinyathi District Municipality,

said his business received great

leads, which were in the process

said.

Sphelele Shezi, said this was the

exposure at the expo. >>

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

FEATURE

“The expo has been superb.

Lord, created to bring about

Participants at the Action Lab

ment through which the cultiva-

We started our business when

economic recovery in South

collectively agreed on the regu-

tion of non-medicinal cannabis

cannabis became legal and

Africa, there should be no stigma

latory reforms required to better

will be legal under the terms and

we started experimenting with

attached to them. The rural

enable the development of the

conditions of the Plant Improve-

different cannabis infused gin

economy will grow because of

hemp and cannabis sector.

ment Act, 1976 (Act 53 of 1976).

flavours. We have met incredible

hemp and cannabis,” she said.

The reforms will unlock the

The development of the hemp

potential of cannabis in African

and cannabis industry has so far

contacts that we will be supplying. There are business oppor-

Investment

traditional medicine; pharma-

seen the issuing of 83 cannabis

tunities as well as local growers

In his 2023 State of the Nation

ceutical and complementary

licences, four manufacturing

that we could potentially partner

Address (SoNA), President Cyril

medicines; and multiple indus-

licences and 30 research permits

with,” Collard said.

Ramaphosa reiterated govern-

trial applications.

by the South African Health

Nonhlanhla Qhoboshiyane, a

ment’s commitment made in

hemp and cannabis farmer from

2022 to unlock investment in the

agreed to include reviewing the

since 2022.

Durban, who was introduced to

hemp and cannabis sector.

schedules to the Medicines and

The Department of Agriculture,

the plants after falling ill, said she

During the Phakisa Action Lab

Substances Act, 1965 (Act 101 of

Land Reform and Rural Develop-

was grateful for the opportunity

gathering held in June 2023, the

1965) to further enable cannabis

ment has also issued 371 hemp

to be part of the informative

President said the cannabis and

grown for non-medicinal uses,

permits, enabling significant in-

expo.

hemp sector is one of 14 priority

including industrial purposes.

vestment, employment creation,

“My interest started in 2016

sectors that have been defined

The Phakisa Action Lab further

the application of technology, in-

when my husband and I were

in government’s Country Invest-

resolved to explore mechanisms

tellectual property development

diagnosed with cancer. We used

ment Strategy as holding signifi-

to fast-track the removal of can-

and exports to highly competi-

hemp oil and we would make

cant potential to secure invest-

nabis from the Drugs and Drug

tive global markets.

cannabis leaf tea to help with the

ment, job creation and support

Trafficking Act, 1992 (Act 140 of

And that is no smoke and mir-

pain.

for sustainable rural livelihoods,

1992).

rors story.

“These plants are from the

in recognition of people’s rights.

This will be a historic achieve-

The regulatory reforms

Products Regulatory Authority

– SAnews.gov.za

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Source: TIA

FEATURE

TIA signs MoU with Milk SA to drive innovation in the dairy sector

petitors, which are supported with

but the industry succeeds to

is the overarching body of the

most efficient and com-

government interventions.

increasingly provide sufficient

local dairy industry, with its

petitive dairy industries in

The number of milk farms and

unprocessed milk and dairy

members being the Milk Pro-

the world whilst operating in a free

processors of dairy products

products of a high standard to

ducers' Organisation and the

market environment, unlike most

continues to decline, espe-

consumers.

SA Milk Processors' Organisa-

of its international trade com-

cially since deregulation in 1997,

Milk South Africa (Milk SA)

tion. Projects under its manage-

outh Africa has one of the

Public Sector Manager • November 2023

ment are funded by statutory

development of activities and

mental goals of South Africa.

provide increased opportuni-

levies and include quality and

interventions to facilitate sec-

“This historic moment of the

ties to achieve such innovation

safety, transformation, skills

tor or industry-level engage-

signature of an MoU between

and at the same time maintain

and knowledge development,

ments through a cross-cutting

TIA and Milk SA has also

sustainability," said Dr Heinz

research and development

approach. This approach is

ensured a meeting of minds

Meissner, R&D Programme

(R&D), industry information

intended to address systemic

regarding further support to

Manager at Milk SA.

and consumer education.

weaknesses that hamper inno-

the transformation agenda of

This collaboration is a good

In its role as an industry

vation and commercialisation

Milk SA and TIA. As we pursue

example of a public-private

builder, the Technology Innova-

beyond just the provision of

diversity, equity, and inclusion,

partnership that would contrib-

tion Agency (TIA), an entity

funding to individual projects.

we envisage a dairy industry

ute to economic growth and a

of the Department of Science

In this collaboration, Milk SA

in which the participation

competitive industry, leading

and Innovation (DSI), has

will amongst others be the

of women is commonplace,

to improved quality of life for

signed a strategic collaboration

implementing partner for the

and in which all opportuni-

South Africans.

agreement with Milk SA. Milk

current Dairy Genomics Pro-

ties within the value chain are

As a strategic high-impact

SA was established with the

gramme or Cluster of TIA.

opened for participation,” said

programme, the model of clus-

strategic intent to improve the

“We are delighted to have

Dr Vuyisile Phehane, Executive:

ter creation and management

competitiveness of the South

reached this milestone and

Bioeconomy at TIA.

supports the DSI's Decadal

African dairy industry, broaden

we look forward to the con-

Milk SA regards the relation-

Plan and the implementation of

the market for South African

tributions by TIA and Milk SA

ship with TIA as of high impor-

the 2019 White Paper on Sci-

dairy products and empower

towards the prosperity of the

tance in supporting the R&D

ence Technology and Innova-

existing black dairy entrepre-

South African dairy industry.

programme of the dairy sector.

tion. The Decadal Plan guides

neurs in the South African

The signing of this collabora-

Technology development

on modalities for the State's

dairy industry to broaden the

tion agreement is the culmina-

and innovation in a competi-

intervention towards rescuing

market.

tion of years of negotiation and

tive environment where profit

industries in decline, amongst

The cluster model is TIA’s

underscores the realisation that

margins are small is crucial

other interventions defined in

approach for assessing value

partnerships are central to the

and therefore, we anticipate

the Agricultural and Agro-pro-

chains and stimulating the

achievement of the develop-

that this relationship should

cessing Masterplan.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

GROOMING AND ST YLE

Writer: The Edit Desk

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beat the heat, relax and unwind

Grab your sunnies

and make the most of your

Find the perfect frame for your

Do not forget your SPF

holidays.

face and up your eye-wear game

Wearing sunscreen daily wheth-

• SPF30 cream Clinique: R500.

Whether you are headed home

with the perfect pair of sunglass-

er you are out and about in the

• Eucerin Sun Sens Gel: R255,

for the holidays, or to the coast,

es. Opt for a brand that pro-

sun or relaxing indoors does

sun zone on your face, neck arms and legs.

Dischem.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Hats off to you From the fedora and widebrimmed straw to the dome or bucket, hats are the ultimate statement while on holiday. Straw hats are best for the beach, bucket hats for the streets and everything in between to make your statement this Summer. •

Men’s Panama or Bucket Hats: R249, Woolworths.

•

Ladies sun hats: R169, Edgars.

• EverySun SPF50 Suncsreen Lotion: R143, Clicks.

The colourful crossbody

straps. Large enough to carry your essential items, it adds the perfect pop to any outfit. Change up your style this summer with the Crossbody.

The crossbody bag trend is all

• Typo: R299.

the rage this Summer with fun

• Country Road: R899.

and colourful interchangeable

• Refinery: R250.

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

*prices correct at the time of publishing *The Edit Desk is a team of content creators and communication specialists. You can contact the team on email: jay@theeditdesk.co or follow them on Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin: @theeditdesk.co

FOOD AND WINE

Writer: Chef Moleleki Lelimo

A hearty Beef Wellington

recipe for the holiday season T

Beef Wellington recipe Ingredients: •

Puff pastry.

•

Beef fillet 600g (may upsize if serving a bigger crowd).

•

Fresh thyme.

•

1 large onion (finely chopped).

•

Salt and pepper.

•

Dijon mustard.

•

Mushrooms (finely chopped).

•

Garlic.

•

Butter.

•

Olive oil.

ing for the new year. On special

served with broiled vegetables

•

White wine (1/4 cup).

upon us and this is the

days like Christmas, food will

with you.

•

Crepes.

time most of us spend

always be that glue that sticks us

Enjoy this meal with a crisp

•

1 large egg.

with families reflecting on the

together.

cold glass of Chardonnay Pinot

year past, catching up, simply

In this edition I am sharing

Noir, perfect for these hot sum-

Method:

having good vibes and recharg-

my Beef Wellington recipe

mer days.

•

he holiday season is

Season beef fillet with pepper and thyme and sear in a hot pan, put aside and let cool.

•

Add butter to the pan and sauté the finely chopped onion and mushrooms till cooked. Season with salt and pepper.

•

Add garlic and fresh thyme and further sauté till fragrant.

•

Add white wine and cook till reduced. The mushrooms should have a paste resemblance at this stage. The duxelles done, put aside and let cool.

Rolling the beef: •

Lay the crepes on a cling wrap. Spread the duxelles on the crepes, wide enough to

Public Sector Manager • December

Method: •

Add butter to the pan and sauté onion till translucent.

•

Add fresh a few sprigs of thyme and continue to sauté till nicely fragrant.

•

Add the wine and stock. Let this simmer till it reduces to half, add some sugar to taste. If sauce is a bit runny, add a block of butter alternatively add about a teaspoon of

Place the Wellington in an

roasting pan. Drizzle melted

Rub some dijon mustard on

oven preheated at 180 °C.

garlic butter on the vegeta-

the beef fillet, thyme leaves,

Cook for 25 minutes for a

bles and toss well to coat.

black pepper and a sprinkle

medium rare, or longer for

Season with salt and pepper,

cover the entire beef. •

•

preferred doneness.

of salt. •

Place the beef on the tightly and tie the cling film

•

Broccoli.

(200 °C) on grill setting. Cook

on both ends, this should

•

Cauliflower.

till golden brown on top.

have a log shape at this

•

Baby carrots.

This should take about 10

stage.

•

Baby potatoes (boiled till soft,

minutes.

Put aside and chill. While the beef is taking

•

then slightly crushed).

shape, dust a surface with

Method:

flour and roll out the puff

•

Place in a preheated oven

You can make some red wine to go with the meat.

Cook vegetables per batch in

Ingredients:

pastry to the desired thick-

salted boiling water, one min-

•

ness. Careful not to roll too

ute for the broccoli and one

thin.

minute for the cauliflower,

Remove cling film from the

two minutes for the baby car-

beef log and cover with the

rots then transfer into a bowl

•

Thyme.

rolled out puff pastry.

with iced water to cool them

•

Vegetable stock 1/2 cup.

Pinch the ends and cut

down and to avoid overcook-

•

1/4 cup sugar.

excess puff pastry (this

ing.

•

Tablespoon of butter.

excess pastry can be used to •

over.

The side vegetables:

•

sprinkle some thyme leaves

duxelles covered crepes roll

•

cooled down, remove from

Brush the Wellington with

cold water and place on a

the egg, this will help glaze

colander to remove excess

colour when cooking.

water. •

2 cups red wine (you can use Merlot).

•

1 large onion roughly chopped.

Once all vegetables have

decorate the Wellington).

and give it that golden brown

corn-starch.

*Originally from Excelsior in the Free State, Lelimo is a Sous-Chef at one of the high-end restaurant in Cape Town. Although he has a full time job, he also does private functions from time to time when required. You can check out some of his work on Instagram: @molelekiskitchen.

Lay the vegetables into a

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

TRAVEL FEATURE

Writer: Nondumiso Radebe

A Blissful Escape:

celebrate special occasions in Zanzibar luxurious retreat for my entire party. However, their overall service was disappointing, from its restaurant staff, cleaning service and desk service.

Day 2: The party Having a destination party is far more terrifying than keeping it in your home country. All the planning was done through hotel contacts, social media posts that friends had shared, or posts that I had stumbled upon. I only

Looking for a beautiful getaway to celebrate a special occasion? Look no further; travel blogger, Nondumiso Radebe, shares interesting aspects about her 40th birthday celebrations in Zanzibar.

met my vendors on the day of the event. Everything in Zanzibar is “Hakuna Matata”. I learnt this because the majority of my vendors – decor company, the DJ and the photographer arrived

s I approached the

perfect destination to celebrate my

which our driver kept swerving

late. I would recommend that

milestone of turning 40,

birthday in style.

in order to avoid an accident. As

you get yourself a friend from

we arrived at the resort, we were

that country – the vendors that

greeted by Swahili drummers.

were recommended by my friend

After checking into our luxurious

from Tanzania were the most

I wanted to embark on a

this auspicious occasion but also

Day 1: Arrival in paradise

create unforgettable memories.

We arrived in Zanzibar in the

beachfront resort, we immedi-

reliable, whilst the ones I found

After much contemplation, I set my

afternoon, with just enough

ately headed for the restaurant.

on social media, in my case, the

sights on the exotic island of Zan-

time to see the sun setting.

Le Mersenne Resort is renowned

photographer; turned out to be a

zibar; a hidden gem off the coast

The scenic drive to our hotel in

for its opulent accommodations.

scammer.

of Tanzania. Known for its pristine

Michamvi Pingwe was troubled

The blend of traditional Swahili

The Le Mersenne Resort al-

beaches, vibrant culture and rich

by unkempt gravel roads, with

décor and modern amenities

lowed us to have beachfront

history, Zanzibar seemed like the

a spattering of deep potholes,

provided a comfortable and

lunch on their pier, complete

journey that would not only mark

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024

Day 4: Exploring Stone Town

where we indulged in the island's

With Zanzibar being part of

Celebrating my 40th birthday

an archipelago, we could not

in Zanzibar was an extraordinary

resist the temptation to explore

experience that surpassed all

its neighbouring islands. We

expectations. From the pristine

hopped on a boat and set off to

beaches to the rich culture and

Prison Island, famous for its giant

wildlife encounters, Zanzibar

tortoises. The gentle giants wel-

is a destination that truly offers

comed our arrival, allowing us to

something for everyone. As I

culinary delights.

feed and interact with them. To

bid farewell to this enchanting

with sumptuous feast, and wait-

snorkelling and lazy swimming in

immerse ourselves in Zanzibar's

island, I carried with me not only

resses who ensured our glasses

the warm crystal-clear waters of

intriguing history, we embarked

cherished memories but also a

were always full.

the Indian Ocean; discovering vi-

on a guided tour of Stone Town,

renewed sense of appreciation

brant coral reefs, and encounter-

the island's United Nations Edu-

for life's remarkable moments.

ing colourful marine life includ-

cational, Scientific and Cultural

ing tropical fish and turtles.

Organization World Heritage

No trip to Zanzibar would be

This part was not my mother’s

Site. The narrow, winding streets

complete without the Blue Safari

favourite; as jumping in and out

transported us back in time as

experience. It offers a chance to

of the Dhow seemed challenging

we meandered through the an-

explore the beautiful marine life

for her. However, I admire her

cient buildings, bustling markets

and untouched natural beauty of

spirit of adventure as it propelled

and vibrant alleys. The scent of

Zanzibar’s surrounding islands.

her to persevere and not miss

exotic spices filled the air, a re-

We fluttered from one island to

any part the experience. Her be-

minder of Zanzibar's prominent

another, and from one swimming

ing part of all the adventures we

role in the spice trade. We ended

area to another on a precariously

embarked on in Zanzibar made

the day with a delicious authen-

looking boat locally known as a

the week so much more memo-

tic dinner, which was hosted

Dhow. We also indulged in some

rable.

by our tour guide and his wife,

Day 3: Blue Safari adventure

*Radebe is a travel blogger, who is passionate about exploring new destinations and sharing her experiences with others. Through captivating stories, stunning photographs, and practical tips, she aims to inspire fellow adventurers and help them plan their own unforgettable journeys. You can follow her adventures and stay up-to-date with her latest travel recommendations by following her on Instagram @n_radebe and at www.bentontravel.co.za

Public Sector Manager • December 2023 / January 2024