Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Mncwabe

drives innovation and excellence at ACSA

Moreetsi

breaking records in aviation

Vuk’uzenzele

a platform for communicators to spread government messages

DECEMBER 2022/JANUARY 2023

AUGUST 2022

Contents: December 2022/ January 2023

10

From the Union Buildings

Men are the problem, but they should be part of the solution

REGULARS

FEATURES

8

22

10

Conversations with leaders

14

welfare SETA

Government tackles the

Women in the public sector

women in SA

Maxillofacial surgeon, Dr Pranusha

drivers of violence against

24

Call for implementation of

ceiling

professionalisation of the

Trailblazer

Public sector making headway

Pilot Refilwe Moreetsi’s

capable state

public sector framework

in building a stronger, more

South African Airways journey into uncharted territory

16

Women empowerment key to dealing with GBVF

CEO Elaine Brass drives health and

Ramlakhan, breaks the glass

26

for communicating with citizens

experience at the heart of ACSA

publication of choice for SA’s

Innovation and exclusive customer

14

Vuk’uzenzele: a paper

Profiles in leadership

CIO Mthokozisi Mncwabe

2

20

16

GCIS newspaper is the communities

34

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

50 30

New tobacco Bill: strengthening

42

functional’ as it works towards

step

Changing the way Africa governs

Changing the tobacco industry step by

34

36

Pan-African Parliament ‘fully

public health protection measures

Phaahla concerned about the

46

Celebrating South Africa's rich

annual rise in HIV cases

history

Critical steps taken to stem increase in

The story of SA’s democracy told

HIV infections

through stamps

SA's 24-hour space weather centre

55

restoring its image

48

LIFESTYLE 52

Calls to improve access

takes off

to education for people with

centre finds its home in Hermanus

Breaking barriers to access through

The continent’s only state-of-the-art

NASA, South Africa renew lunar exploration partnership

Party season wardrobe musthaves

disabilities

policy change 40

Grooming and style

50

A boost for rooibos research

Humans to return to the moon via

Harnessing the true power of South

Matjiesfontein

Africa’s favourite tea

54

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

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

54

Food and wine

55

Travel

Festive feast

Family-friendly festivities in Tulbagh this festive season

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

Director-General Phumla Williams

Managing Editor Tshepo Nkosi tshepo@gcis.gov.za

Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Nomonde Mnukwa

News Editor Miriam Mokoena | miriam@gcis.gov.za

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

3

MINISTER MONDLI GUNGUBELE’S MESSAGE XXX

Everyday reconciliation is a wonderful reality

detainees have been reopened.

In addition, where amnesty was not granted by the TRC, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation was tasked with deciding if cases are prosecutable. Consequently, several formal inquests have been

happened yesterday, but in

emphasised the commitment to

started.

what happens today and

building a new nation based on

tomorrow.

equal rights for all.

The successor to the TRC, the Institute for Justice and Recon-

Realising the complexity of

ciliation – established in 2000

put their hands up to indicate

the healing process, the Truth

– releases an annual South

their willingness to commit to a

and Reconciliation Commission

African Reconciliation Barom-

just future.

(TRC) was established under

eter. The 2021 survey revealed

the Promotion of National Unity

that respondents believed the

ciliation was established by

and Reconciliation Act, 1995

responsibility for reconciliation

the democratic government

(Act 34 of 1995) to promote

lies with all South Africans,

post-1994, 16 December had

reconciliation and forgiveness

regardless of their status under

always been a public holiday,

among victims and perpetra-

apartheid.

celebrated as the Day of the

tors of apartheid. Over several

Vow in commemoration of

years, it heard testimonies of

intolerance and the abuse

the Voortrekkers’ defeat of the

thousands of people, enabling

of human rights are all too

Zulus in the Battle of Blood

many to speak openly about

common in news headlines,

River in 1838. However, it was

the terrible things they had

beautiful stories unfold quietly

an equally significant day for

endured or witnessed.

all around us that show that

anti-apartheid activists be-

While the TRC had the power

Although incidents of racism,

compassion, connectedness

he importance the of Day

cause it was when Umkhonto

to recommend reparations and

and understanding are flourish-

of Reconciliation, cel-

we Sizwe – the military wing of

grant amnesty, it also recom-

ing at a grassroots level.

ebrated on 16 December

the African National Congress

mended that certain perpetra-

in South Africa, cannot be under-

– was formed in 1961, heralding

tors of human rights abuses be

nomic-fuelled criminality aside,

estimated precisely because the

a turning point in the fight for

prosecuted. Progress in this re-

the hope expressed in the

ideals that led to the creation of

freedom.

gard has been slow, but recent

preamble to the Constitution of

In other words, socio-eco-

developments indicate that, at

South Africa is being embraced

the power to make real the nation

democratic government had

last, victims’ families will learn

by people who demonstrate

of our collective reimagining.

the foresight to create a new

the truth about what happened

through their actions that they

holiday that not only acknowl-

to their loved ones.

believe that ‘South Africa be-

this national public holiday has

While countless mechanisms

4

investigations into the deaths of

the liberation movement, but

While the Day of Recon-

T

dealing with TRC cases, and 38

reconciliation lies not in what

It requires that South Africans

Mondli Gungubele Minister in The Presidency

prosecutors and investigators

The then newly elected

exist to address past injustices

edged the significance of the

The National Prosecuting

and the horror of apartheid,

day to both the Afrikaners and

Authority now has a team of

longs to all who live in it, united in our diversity’.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

XXXMESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL

M

ore than 1.5 million new HIV infections were reported world-

wide last year. This means that new infections dropped by only 3.6% between 2020 and 2021 – the smallest annual decline since 2016.

This information, from a re-

SA cannot afford not to make quality healthcare a reality

cent report by the Joint United

suppression for 95% of those

Nations Programme on HIV

treated by 2030.

and AIDS (UNAIDS), titled In

was also affected by COVID-19

Although in August 2022,

and government has launched

Danger, drove home the mes-

Minister Phaahla revealed that

the TB Recovery Plan to

sage that despite the first case

HIV infections in South Africa

increase screening and to get

being identified 41 years ago,

had dropped by 45% since

patients to commit to their treat-

the HIV/AIDS pandemic rages

2010, interventions still need to

ment programmes.

on.

be stepped-up. As of May 2022,

World AIDS Day, 1 December,

the country was at 93-78-89.

challenges South Africans to

In recent developments, the

Universal Health Coverage Day, is celebrated on 12 December and government’s message

relook their perceptions of this

South Africa Health Products

is that the National Health Insur-

virus. The stigmatisation of peo-

Regulatory Authority approved

ance (NHI) programme will be

ple living with HIV remains real

a vaginal ring that slowly

implemented, despite continued

releases dapivirine, an antivi-

opposition.

and is the reason many people do not get tested or properly

Phumla Williams, GCIS Director-General.

ral medicine. In addition, the

Much work has been done

take their antiretroviral therapy

tions focus on all young people

first injectable medication to

to prepare for its roll-out. Most

(ART).

and not just females. To this

prevent HIV, cabotegravir, is

significant are the infrastructure

end, government launched the

awaiting approval by the regu-

development programmes in

of the highest HIV prevalence

National Youth HIV Prevention

latory authority. Cabotegravir is

NHI pilot areas, including the

rates globally, the virus is be-

Campaign 2022 – 2025 on 30

long acting and is expected to

construction of the Limpopo

ing placed at the centre stage

June, to raise more awareness

improve treatment adherence.

Academic Hospital. More medi-

again, after being nudged into

about the virus, encourage

Furthermore, the Welcome

cal personnel are being trained

the shadows by the COVID-19

young people to change their

Back Campaign is being rolled

and deployed to NHI pilot areas

pandemic.

sexual behaviour and urge

out to get people living with

and a centralised patient record

them to get tested if needed.

HIV either on treatment or

system is being created.

With South Africa having one

At the International Aids Conference in Canada in July 2022,

Getting South Africa’s HIV re-

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla,

sponse back on track is essen-

generation National Strategic

ing considered by Parliament.

noted that most new infections

tial if the country is to meet the

Plan (NSP) for HIV, TB and

Once approved, its phase-in will

in South Africa are recorded in

UNAIDS 95-95-95 2030 targets

STIs (2023 – 2028) should be

require a committed, people-

women between the ages of 15

– which aim to diagnose 95%

launched in 2023. The NSP is in

centred approach by the Public

and 24.

of all HIV-positive individuals,

line with the global Sustainable

Service to elevate it from an idea

provide ART for 95% of those

Development Goal of ending

to a reality that radically trans-

diagnosed and achieve viral

AIDS as a pandemic by 2030.

forms healthcare in South Africa.

However, changing this narrative requires that interven-

6

The national TB programme

back on treatment; and the fifth

The NHI Bill is currently be-

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Writer: Allison Cooper Photos: HWSETA

CONVERSATIONS WITH LEADERS

Top ‘Brass’ drives health and welfare SETA H

aving the ability to

African Institute of Chartered

took to the public sector like a

Chief Financial Officer in 2007

make a difference

Accountants board exam in

duck to water and felt I had a

and, in 2019, was appointed as

drives Elaine Brass,

1996 – on her first attempt –

mission and purpose.

CEO.

the Chief Executive Officer

she completed her articles at

“I was mesmerised by the

(CEO) of the Health and

Deloitte in 1999 and worked

public sector. The magnitude

skills development in the

Welfare Sector Education and

for the company as an audit

of the figures I was auditing,

health and social development

Training Authority (HWSETA).

manager for three years.

including state debt and the

sectors.

“I received an excellent

consolidated accounts of the

driven by the greater good

grounding in auditing at

country, was unbelievable.

difference has been made

for all. This is what drives

Deloitte and was being

This sparked my passion for

because she has an excellent

me,” says Brass, who holds

shaped to be strong and

the sector,” says Brass.

team of executives on her side.

a Bachelor of Commerce

confident for my move to the

degree in Accounting

public sector”.

“The public sector is

from the University of the

She says a positive

“We have injected innovation

senior manager position at the

into funding our programmes,

AGSA in Gauteng, where she

established impactful

Witwatersrand and an

General of South Africa

worked until 2007. “I was given

partnerships and expanded

Honours degree in Accounting

(AGSA) in Tshwane in 2003 as

high-profile entities to audit

our programmes to support

from the University of South

an audit manager.

and made a mark on each,

artisans and cooperatives,”

“The transition from the

ensuring public accountability”.

says Brass.

private sector was smooth. I

She joined the HWSETA as

Africa.

After passing the South

8

She joined the Auditor-

In 2004, she applied for a

The HWSETA coordinates

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

An exceptional year The HWSETA has had an exceptional year in carrying out its mandate, says Brass.

She says the launch of its career guidance portal in 2021, enabled the authority to significantly exceed its annual targets. “The portal is digitised and easy to access and use. We reached 8 402 learners during the year. In addition, our social media footprint continues to grow, which also directs learners

Rural development

concept paper on supporting

contribution to the country’s

cornerstone of the authority’s

The HWSETA has included

social service practitioners to

economic reconstruction and

Annual Performance Plan (APP)

apprenticeships as part of its

become social entrepreneurs

recovery.

and strategic plans. “This year,

rural development strategy.

and are engaging universities

we produced five research

“Selected rural areas were

to train those who are

support our sectors’ needs.

reports and updated our Sector

chosen to recruit youth and

unemployed,” says Brass.

To this end, we have looked

Skills Plan, thus exceeding this

link them to employers. This

target”.

provided connections to

furthermore, developed,

our funding model, to ensure

The SETA also completed

workplaces and the strategy

completed and submitted

greater employability and

five monitoring and evaluation

was successful,” says Brass.

two new qualifications to the

sustainability in these sectors,”

Quality Council for Trades and

says Brass.

to our portal”.

Brass says research is the

reports, which assist it to

In support of the country’s

“We have also developed a

The authority has,

high demand as part of its

“We will also continue to

at different ways to improve

As a leader in the public

Economic Reconstruction

Occupations for registration

and Recovery Plan, the

– the Advanced Occupational

sector, Brass has learnt to be

programme also continues to be

authority has trained 795

Certificate: Occupational

humble and respect everyone.

successful. “We have produced

early childhood development

Health and Safety Practitioner

35 employed and 28 unemployed

practitioners; supported

at NQF level 5, and the

and integrity ensure you can

learners at post-graduate level.

training in priority areas,

National Certificate:

lead with purpose and make a

Completed apprenticeships

such as diesel mechanics,

Occupational Health and

difference in the lives of many.

have been exceptional this

millwright and boilermaker

Safety Officer at NQF level 4.

year, with 91 employed and 158

artisanships; and supported

unemployed learners”.

training programmes at

Looking ahead

improve projects in its APP. The authority’s post-graduate

“Patience, passion, hard work

“I have never allowed the concept of a glass ceiling to occupy my thoughts and

technical and vocational

The authority’s sights are set

actions. I have progressed well

block training introduced by the

education and training

to continue making an impact.

and moved up in my career to

authority to enable employers

colleges, as well as work

It is funding and focusing

very senior positions, without

to easily release workers for

integrated learning and

on innovation, qualifications

being limited,” she says.

training.

lecturer development.

and occupations that are in

This success was due to

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

9

Writer: Malphia Honwane

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

Maxillofacial surgeon breaks the glass ceiling I Photo: Unsplash.com

n a world where one has

most heart-breaking but also

realise their dreams, there

the most rewarding part of

is absolutely no substitute for

my job. It is wonderful seeing

hard work, faith and perse-

the impact on a child’s life,

verance.

and of course the huge smile

These are the sentiments of Dr Pranusha Ramlakhan, who recently became KwaZulu-

and hugs after their recovery are an added bonus.

“During my training as a

Natal’s first female maxillofa-

registrar, I encountered a

cial surgeon.

patient, a young lady with

In a media release issued by

10

“Treating children is the

to be on their toes to

a huge cancerous tumour

the KwaZulu-Natal Depart-

in her lower jaw. She was

ment of Health, Ramlakhan

extremely malnourished,

says putting a smile on

and had also contracted

injured children’s faces is the

COVID-19. Against all odds,

best part of her job.

we performed surgery on her.

Dr Ramlakhan Photo: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

She stayed with us for three months as we rehabilitated

"It is a speciality that combines surgical training with dental

her. This included a month

expertise to correct a wide

in the Intensive Care Unit, where her survival postoperatively was in doubt. It

spectrum of diseases, injuries,

was heart-warming to see

tumours , defects and deformities

her walk out of the hospital happy and bubbly,” she says.

in the mouth, head, neck, face

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC

and jaw area"

Nomagugu Simelane has described Ramlakhan as an inspiration and “trailblazer” who must be emulated.

Special type of dentistry

break into this male-dominated career space, Ramlakhan says what makes her achievement phenomenal is that the maxillofacial surgeon bug hit her as far back as her university days.

“My interest in the medical field started earlier on, and during my university years, I realised a special interest in surgery. After matriculating,

tumours, as well as severe in-

dentistry was the perfect

fections and their side effects.

field for me to get into.

“We are extremely pleased

Maxillofacial surgery is a

“As a maxillofacial sur-

“During my fourth year

and proud of what Dr Ram-

special type of dentistry

geon, you have to consult

of study, I used to shadow

lakhan has achieved. It is

that involves an operation

with patients, diagnose their

maxillofacial registrars to

women like her who keep

to correct a disease, injury

conditions, plan surgery and

see the work they were

breaking down barriers and

or defect on the face, jaw or

operate in theatre. We also

doing. This sparked my

pushing the envelope, to

mouth. Maxillofacial surgeons

render after-hour service for

interest in maxillofacial and

prove to all that, indeed,

perform various procedures

emergencies,” says Ram-

oral surgery. After complet-

women are capable of

to reduce pain, fix deformities

lakhan.

ing my degree in Dentistry,

achieving anything, and that

and restore function in the

no field should be regarded

lower face.

She holds a Bachelor’s

I was placed at the eThek-

degree in Dentistry from the

wini District to complete

University of the Western

my community service. Part

We need more people like

bines surgical training with

Cape; and a Master’s in Max-

of this rotation was at King

her” says the MEC.

dental expertise to correct a

illofacial and Oral Surgery

Edward VIII Hospital, where

wide spectrum of diseases,

from the University of the

I gained experience in sur-

rently working at King

injuries, tumours, defects

Witwatersrand.

gery and my love for surgery

Edward VIII Hospital, Ram-

and deformities in the mouth,

lakhan says her biggest wish

head, neck, face and jaw

ture, she worked as a dental

She then got absorbed by

is for people to stop alcohol

area. This includes bones and

surgeon at the Department

the hospital as a permanent

and drugs abuse; and also

soft tissues of this region.

of Maxillofacial and Oral

employee, and this fuelled

Surgery at King Edward VIII

the desire to take her career

as the sole domain of men.

Born in Durban and cur-

“It is a specialty that com-

Prior to her new adven-

was confirmed,” she says.

desist from risky behaviours,

“We, at King Edward VIII

such as drunken driving and

Hospital, mainly see trauma

Hospital after completing

to greater heights. She

speeding, which are among

patients who have sus-

her community service in the

pursued courses in acute

the leading causes of road

tained injuries from assaults,

eThekwini District.

cardiac life support, basic

crashes, thus putting people’s

gunshot wounds and motor-

lives in danger and burden-

vehicle accidents. We also

How it all started

ing public service trauma and

treat patients with adversely

Despite being the first

successfully combined to

maxillofacial units.

impacted teeth, cysts and

woman in the province to

elevate her towards the

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

surgical skills and advanced trauma life support, which

11

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

maxillofacial specialty.

She says becoming a registrar was not easy. “After completing my Maxillofacial Part 1 exams with The Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, I struggled to get a registrar post. Many years later, Oral Health Services launched a programme to train registrars from KwaZulu-Natal. I was interviewed for the post and was successful,” adds the surgeon.

Like many other jobs, being a maxillofacial surgeon is not a walk in the park, but Ramlakhan says the feeling of contentment that comes after successfully executing her tasks is unmatched.

“It is a very demanding field, which means long hours in theatre as well as being on call at any hour of

Photo: Unsplash.com

the day or night (holidays included). As such, it means that sometimes I have to

ers and wives. But we are

“I missed some important

venture into her profes-

miss special life events,” she

slowly trying to break these

special days and milestones

sion, the surgeon has this

remarks.

stereotyped roles – to show

along the way, but my family

to say: “Anything is possible

that working women can

has been very understand-

when you believe in your-

also have demanding ca-

ing and supportive through-

self. Follow your dreams.

reers and [still] have a fam-

out,” she says.

If maxillofacial surgery is

Breaking new grounds Ramlakhan believes her

ily. As we promote this more

achievements will encour-

and more, we hope that

goal is to complete her Mas-

I embarked on my registrar

age more women to venture

more women are encour-

ter’s degree in Public Health

training with a two-year-old

into male-dominated fields.

aged to join the fraternity,”

Management and, over

toddler – a journey which

says Ramlakhan.

the longer term, she wants

made climbing Kilimanjaro

to finish her fellowship in

seem easier”.

“It becomes particularly demanding as social norms

12

The surgeon attributes

dictate that women are the

her success to her faith and

primary caregivers, moth-

the support of her family.

Ramlakhan’s short-term

your passion, then follow it.

trauma.

To those who want to

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Writer: More Matshediso Photos: SAA

TRAILBLAZER

Moreetsi’s journey into uncharted territor y A

t the age of seven,

tive training before training as

Refilwe Moreetsi (35)

a pilot. Military training instills

boarded her first flight,

discipline, teamwork and lead-

and she instantly knew that she

ership skills, among others,” she

wanted to become a pilot.

says.

What she didn’t know, however, was the fact that, years

course that covered aeronauti-

later, she would break records

cal subjects. She also holds a

as one of the first two black

Higher Certificate in Military

women to command a South

Studies from the University

African Airways (SAA) commer-

of Stellenbosch. Moreetsi has

cial flight.

completed various studies

“Coincidentally, my first flight

in her field, including a pilot

was an SAA plane from Johan-

course from the Central Flying

nesburg to Durban. On that day,

School, a private pilot’s licence

I got an opportunity to go to the

on helicopters from Starlight

flight deck and I just knew this

Aviation Group and Oryx

is what I wanted to become,”

helicopter training from the

says Moreetsi, who now works

Helicopter Flying School.

as a Senior First Officer for the same airline.

Her career in aviation started in 2006 when she joined the South African Air Force (SAAF) to train as a pilot.

“For the first year at the SAAF,

14

She then did a one-year

The vibrant young pilot is also involved in numerous aviation outreach programs in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

Career journey “After qualifying as a pilot, I

I went through basic military

chose to fly helicopters in the

training and an officers’ forma-

SAAF because its aerodynam-

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

ics just fascinated me. I flew

you love and never working

the Oryx helicopter – one of my

a day comes to mind when

best experiences – and a lot of

Moreetsi talks about her job.

my background and flying skills

She enjoys flying to different

come from that,” she explains.

destinations, watching beautiful sunrises and sunsets. “It’s the

Part of her job at the SAAF

best office view...

was operational flying, including humanitarian aid, flood

“I do not take those moments

relief, firefighting, peacekeep-

for granted. It never gets old

ing missions in the Democratic

for me, and it is so surreal. The

Republic of Congo (DRC), and

most exciting part of my career

search and rescue missions.

was flying helicopters because

Her job also included flying the

I found them to be a little more

Head of State.

adventurous... the mountain

Moreetsi also worked for the

flying, landing on top of a

South African Express Airways as a First Officer. She flew the

waterfall, inside a waterfall, and Refilwe Moreetsi and Annabel Vundla ready for take-off.

Dash8 Q400 Airplane, which

when I was in the DRC, I was right next to an active volcano

she thinks was a good transi-

aircraft – Moreetsi is the first

through my education, hard

and I think those are once in a

tion for her before joining the

black female to occupy one of

work and experience. That is

lifetime experiences,” she says.

SAA.

these positions as a Fatigue

why it did not matter to me that

Risk Management Specialist at

I was the first black female to

Dream career

the SAA.

occupy the position. However,

Unlike Moreetsi, not many

I do understand why it is a big

people get to realise their child-

for managing and monitoring

thing and why it is celebrated,”

hood dreams. Sometimes she

Kinshasa and, soon, we will be

the airline safety risks related

she says.

forgets how she has always

flying to Namibia and Malawi,”

to fatigue.

“Upon arrival at the SAA, I flew the Airbus A320 until now.

My routes include Durban, Cape Town, Mauritius, Harare,

she explains.

In this role, she is responsible

“Because pilots and cabin

She encourages more women and girls to look for career

wanted this.

Her career goal is to fly a big-

crew are shift workers, it is my

opportunities in the aviation

ger jet, just for the experience

Moreetsi was ultimately ap-

responsibility to ensure that

industry, which is currently

and to reach different destina-

pointed as Senior First Officer

all are afforded adequate rest

dominated by men.

tions as a pilot.

at the SAA.

because we need to be at the

Due to her pilot experience,

When flying planes, the Captain and the First Officer take

In October 2022, Moreetsi and

She says working for the SAA

highest level of alertness when

Captain Annabel Vundla made

is a dream come true because

we do our job,” she says.

history when they became the

that is where her desire to be-

turns – while one is flying the

Although occupying this

first black women to command

come a pilot was born.

plane, the other one provides

position is a great achieve-

a commercial flight in the his-

As a young girl from Tzaneen

support, such as communicat-

ment, Moreetsi says she was

tory of the 88-year-old airline.

in Limpopo, Moreetsi says she

ing with Air Traffic Controllers.

not aware that she would one

Their flight was from Johannes-

will always appreciate the sup-

day land this job because after

burg to Cape Town.

port that her parents and sisters

Making history

graduating, she decided to be

There are seven management

more involved in the corporate

positions that pilots can occupy

side of aviation.

concurrently while flying an

“I believe I got this position

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Doing what she loves The saying about doing what

gave for her to achieve her goal.

She is also grateful for the love and support of her husband and two children.

15

Writer: More Matshediso

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Innovation and exclusive customer experience at the heart of ACSA CIO

M

ore often, people view public

secure infrastructure for air-

servants as corrupt

lines to transport people and

and inefficient, but this is not

goods.

true for officials like Mthokozisi

“I arrive at work at 07:00

Mncwabe, who work tirelessly

every morning to make sure

to provide citizens with the

that ACSA keeps functioning,”

best service.

he says.

Mncwabe is the Chief

Mthokozisi Mncwabe.

ACSA provides world-class

In October, Mncwabe was

Information Officer (CIO) of

elected the inaugural Deputy

Airports Company South Af-

President of Airports Council

rica (ACSA) – a company that

International (ACI) Africa’s

owns and operates the coun-

Facilitation, Technology and

try’s nine principal airports,

Innovation Committee during

including three international

the council's 2022 World An-

gateways - O.R. Tambo, Cape

nual General Assembly held in

Town and King Shaka interna-

Morocco.

tional airports.

Globally, ACI represents the

Photo: ACSA

16

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

collective interests of airports around the world to promote

direction.

“We exchange knowledge

A balancing act

on technology. Our services

Mncwabe manages both jobs

are also essential for airports

excellence in the aviation

and best practices. We are

concurrently, and has ACSA’s

security. A lot of surveillance

industry. On the continent,

also members of the ACI

full support for his role at ACI

across our network is done

it serves as an international

World and that allows us to

Africa.

through our 8 000 CCTV

association of African airports

exchange best practices with

– every airport in Africa is a

international states. This will

countable for running technol-

in place to ensure safe landing

member of ACI Africa.

help us introduce new innova-

ogy operations and generating

of airplanes in order to prevent

tions across African airports,”

Information Technology (IT)

fatalities,” he says.

he says.

revenue.

Collaborating through technology

Now that he holds a high po-

At ACSA, Mncwabe is ac-

His job covers all the appli-

cameras. We also put systems

Mncwabe joined ACSA in 2019, a year before the

sition at ACI Africa, Mncwabe

cations, services and systems

COVID-19 pandemic wreaked

“Our component committee

plans to address some of the

that support the airports

havoc throughout the world.

at ACI Africa aims to share

challenges experienced when

functions, such as finance,

knowledge, standardise proce-

traveling within Africa.

human resource, supply chain

he led a team of 84 IT spe-

management and infrastruc-

cialist, who came up with a

dure and form collaborations

He recently experienced the

Upon joining the company,

among African airports using

frustration of having to get a

ture, among others. Through

technology strategy that ACSA

technology,” he says.

connecting flight to Morocco

IT, ACSA uses a functional op-

approved and was supposed

in Europe.

erating model to sell services

to be implemented from 2020

to clients in order to generate

to 2027, at a cost of R3 million.

revenue.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 hit

As the Deputy President, Mncwabe ensures that all the

“This should not be the case

heads of technology and in-

because South Africa and Mo-

novation across airports in the

rocco are in Africa,” he says.

continent are pulling in one

“About 80% of services provided by the airports are run

South Africa and the national lockdown led to the strategy being held in abeyance.

“There was no traffic at the airport and we lost money and human resources. We now have 52 employees in the division. Post COVID-19, we had to prioritise maintenance of what we have and cut down on introducing new systems that are costly,” he says.

Career path Mncwabe’s academic achievements and work experience immensely contributed to the leader that he is today.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics Photo: Unsplash.com

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

17

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

and an Honours degree in Computer Science from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

He kick-started his career as an intern for development infrastructure support at Eskom.

He later worked as a consultant for Hewlett-Packard Company and was placed at Telkom. Telkom recruited him to manage infrastructure.

Travellers passing through airport security.

Photo: Unsplash.com

He then joined Cell C as one of its first employees, and worked for the mobile network

grants. Therefore, I implement-

passport, boarding pass and

for four years.

ed the current solution that

fingerprint, and your informa-

that is available on Google

is [being] used to pay social

tion is automatically captured

Play App Store and IOS. Phase

grants,” he adds.

on the system,” he says.

1 of the ACSA App is already

Afterwards, he worked for ABSA bank for eight years

At ACSA, Mncwabe is plan-

According to Mncwabe,

ing infrastructure, service

ning to improve passenger ex-

Phase 2 of the project will

expected to be launched soon.

management, IT and shared

perience across South African

be implemented at the O.R.

The App will serve as a one-

services.

airports by helping keep digital

Tambo International Airport in

stop-shop in aviation.

records of those travelling in

2023. The aim is to have the

Once fully functional, the

and out of the country.

same innovation at all ACSA

ACSA App will enable pas-

airports, including domestic

sengers to have access to

travellers.

airport information, including

in different divisions, includ-

While at ABSA, Mncwabe completed a Master’s in Business Administration degree

“We want passengers to

live, and phases 2 and 3 are

from Milpark Business School

pass through security check

and an executive development

points with ease, and be able

programme through ABSA

to travel from our airports to

facial recognition technology.

services, book parking for their

and the Gordon Institute of

anywhere in the world without

The DHA is enabling the facial

cars at the airports and do

Business Science.

hardships. The Department of

recognition database and we

online shopping from selected

Home Affairs (DHA) is working

want to be the first to use it.

stores and collect their items

African Post Office (SAPO) as

on new technology that will

When this feature goes live,

upon arrival at the airport.

a CIO for Post Bank, and ulti-

improve security at airports,”

passengers will no longer have

mately for the SAPO Group.

he says.

to use fingerprints,” he says.

He then joined the South

Currently, ACSA is imple-

“Phase 2 will feature the

When Mncwabe joined

pricing of all airlines, car rental

“This gives passengers a novel travelling experience,” he says.

Innovation

menting Phase 1 of the auto-

ACSA, airports were outsourc-

“I was involved in the im-

mated border control gates at

ing free WiFi services, but

impossible for us to achieve

plementation of a payment

the Cape Town International

through his leadership, this

when we have a shared com-

solution for the South African

Airport for international travel-

service is now being

mitment to working together

Social Security Agency. The

lers.

offered internally – airports

as a nation to find and apply

now have their their own free

solutions”.

agency signed a deal with the SAPO to pay beneficiary

18

ACSA also has a mobile App

“When you come through the gate, you scan your

He believes that “nothing is

WiFi services.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

What will the neighbours say?

There is no excuse for abuse.

Police: 10111 Stop Gender Violence: 0800 150 150 Childline: 0800 055 555

People can only help if they know.

TELL SOMEONE.

Violence and abuse are poison to society. Let’s make it stop.

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa Photos: Saif71.com on Unsplash

Men are the problem, but they should be part of the solution I

n my address to the sec-

Violence against Women and

ond Presidential Summit on

Children.

Gender-based Violence (GBV)

Between July and September

bringing perpetrators to book.

Service (SAPS).

Not even children, our most vulnerable citizens and most

SAPS Family Violence, Child

and Femicide at the beginning

this year, 989 women were

deserving of our care and

Protection and Sexual Offences

of November, I said that we are a

murdered, 1 277 were victims

protection, were spared. In the

units arrested over 4 000 al-

nation at war with itself.

of attempted murder and more

six months to September 2022,

leged perpetrators of GBV and

than 13 000 were victims of

over 500 children were killed.

410 alleged rapists were traced

This is borne out by the crime statistics for the last quar-

serious assault. In just these

We are in the grip of terrible

ter, which were released just

three months, more than 10

crimes in which offenders are

ahead of the start of the annual

000 rape cases were opened

known to the victims. Women

GBV cases were processed

16 Days of Activism for No

with the South African Police

and children are being violated

by teams of the SAPS and the

not only by strangers but by

National Prosecuting Authority.

people who are known to them

The courts are also handing

– by their fathers, boyfriends

down heavier sentences to per-

and husbands, by colleagues,

petrators.

and arrested.

More than 17 000 trial-ready

teachers and even classmates.

While we should be encour-

However, as a society, we are

aged that many of the perpe-

not powerless to stop these

trators are not being allowed

crimes. We can stop GBV.

to get away with their crimes,

Over the last few years, there

our foremost task is to prevent

has been a growing mobilisa-

men and boys from becoming

tion of all sectors of society

abusers in the first place.

to stop the abuse of women

Men are the perpetrators of

and children. There have been

GBV and it is, therefore, men

some areas of progress.

that need to change. It is men

The latest crime statistics

20

In the reporting period, the

– as husbands and partners,

show some of the successes of

as fathers, colleagues, peers

the criminal justice system in

and classmates – who need to

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

seminars on various pressing

all races, classes and genera-

social, economic and political

tions to speak frankly about

issues of the day. These are fo-

their understanding of mascu-

rums where this engagement

linity, we can show how some

should happen.

assumptions and practices

Eradicating GBV is no less

that many people consider

urgent or important. These

‘normal’ are harmful to women

crimes affect every aspect of

and children.

our society, including health

We must change beliefs that

and well-being, safety and

men are strong and women

security, and economic growth

are weak, that men have to be

and productivity.

in charge, or that men can do

In these dialogues, we need

as they please with women.

to examine our understanding

Men need to understand that

of sexual consent. We must

they can and should express

challenge the myth that rape

their pain and frustrations without inflicting harm on others.

As President, I stand ready to participate in men’s dialogues. I call on Ministers, Premiers, religious, political and community leaders, sports people, artists, celebrities and business people to do the same.

consider their own attitudes towards women and girls.

The government, non-

The men of South Africa

governmental organisa-

owe it to the women and chil-

tions and the private sector

dren of this country to take up

of Activism, we now need

should be encouraged to sup-

the struggle against GBV.

to engage the men of South

port such dialogues in every

is only considered rape if it

These men’s dialogues can

Africa in a dialogue about their

workplace, place of worship,

involves a stranger, or if the

be platforms for men to chal-

responsibility towards women

school, college and university,

victim responded by scream-

lenge each other to become

and toxic masculinity. All of

and in every community. Every

ing for help, fighting back or

better men, more responsible,

society should be mobilised to

day various entities devote

reporting the matter immedi-

more understanding and more

organise these men’s dia-

resources to public engage-

ately to the police.

caring.

logues.

ments, conferences and

To give meaning to 16 Days

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

By bringing together men of

21

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Women empowerment key to dealing with GBVF was, “Socio-Economic Rights

a central tenet to ensuring a

and Empowerment to build

more equal society for all.

Women’s Resilience against

“Therefore, the theme for this

Gender-Based Violence and

year’s 16 Days of Activism aims

Femicide: Connect, Collabo-

to strengthen programmatic

rate, Contract!”.

approaches to accelerate the

“The call for the economic empowerment of women cannot be separated from the

Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite NkoanaMashabane

E

ment of women.

“Our intention throughout

broader call for a violence-free

the year has been to make

South Africa. Both need to be

the linkages between building

met with urgency.

women’s resilience through

“The scourge of GBVF contin-

socio-economic empowerment

ues to undermine our efforts of

and its influence in decreasing

building a democratic, non-

women and children’s vulner-

racial, non-sexist, and united

ability to forms of violence,

South Africa,” the Minister said.

including GBVF.

Fighting the root cause

“Ultimately, we are saying that walking away from an abusive situation must not lead women

She added that at the centre

and children into poverty,” the Minister said.

mpowering women by

Let’s expose them to oppor-

of government’s response to

giving them opportunities

tunities to generate their own

GBVF is tackling the drivers of

to become economically

Government used the launch

income so they can walk away

violence in communities. This

to gather women in busi-

independent is key to tackling

from abusive relationships,” she

includes challenging the socio-

ness across different sectors,

Gender-based Violence and

added.

economic status of women

including women’s Small,

Femicide (GBVF) in the country.

The Minister was addressing

and other vulnerable groups,

Medium and Micro Enterprises

This is according to Minister in

the launch of the 16 Days of Ac-

including the youth, persons

(SMMEs), cooperatives and

the Presidency for Women, Youth

tivism for No Violence Against

with disabilities and LGBTQIA+

women informal traders.

and Persons with Disabilities,

Women and Children campaign

persons.

Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.

at the Johannesburg Expo Cen-

“The biggest challenge for women is economic power.

22

social and economic empower-

“The rights of women to dig-

“Inclusive economic empow-

nity, security, safety and protec-

tre on 25 November 2022. The

erment remains a key priority

tion is non-negotiable. We need

theme for the 2022 campaign

of the government and it is

to collaborate on developing,

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

owned businesses,” added the Minister.

WECONA Co-Chairperson Namhla Mniki said her organization will continue to work for and fight for the economic empowerment of women.

“We recognize that the less empowered we are as women economically, the more it becomes impossible for us to leave abusive relationship.

“The indignity of poverty and the indignity of economic “WECONA continues to

exclusion leads to increased

mobilize and establish public-

vulnerability generally not just

private sector partnerships to

to GBVF,” Mniki said.

enable women-owned enter-

She said WECONA is working

prises to participate in pro-

on a bold and radical pro-

curement opportunities within

gramme aimed at promoting

industry supply chains.

women empowerment.

“WECONA has engaged with

“Women must claim eco-

key sectors to advocate and

nomic power and the economy

negotiate for the establishment

must create the opportuni-

of transformation targets and

ties for women to own their

actions,” the Minister said.

economic power, ownership of

implementing, supporting and

ing women farmers to drive

These sectors include agri-

monitoring programs for equi-

transformation deliverables

culture, steel, energy, poultry,

ing infrastructure, ownership

table job creation, representa-

through broadening ownership

textiles, fast-moving consumer

and access to financing so that

tion and ownership by women.

of SMMEs led by women, youth

goods, automotive, finance,

we can become business own-

“This includes strengthening

and persons with disabilities to

transport and logistics, tourism,

ers,” added Mniki.

the public-private sector part-

build and capacitate entre-

information and communi-

nerships to facilitate economic

preneurship and economic

cations technology, mining,

to address women’s unequal

opportunities for women. In

resilience.

infrastructure, and the Green

economic and social position,

Economy.

through access to government

addition, we must accelerwomen who work the land,”

Women’s Economic Assembly

added the Minister.

ate initiatives to empower our

“In addition, WECONA has

land, ownership of manufactur-

WECONA is a critical vehicle

and private sector procure-

been instrumental in driving

ment, employment, hous-

The Minister said the Women’s

advocacy and accountability in

ing, access to land, financial

Economic Assembly (WECO-

the implementation of the 40%

resources and other income

redistribution and agrarian

NA) continues to empower

preferential procurement in the

generating initiatives.– SAnews.

reform. This includes fund-

women economically.

public sector towards women-

gov.za

She reiterated calls for land

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

23

Source: SAnews Additional reporting: Miriam Mokoena

FEATURE

Call for implementation of professionalisation of the public sector framework

Busani Ngcaweni, Principal: National School of Government at the Editors' Breakfast Engagement session.

T

he National Planning

performance management;

is the blueprint for socio-

Co-operation and Develop-

Commission (NPC)

continuous learning and profes-

economic transformation of the

ment, such as Australia and

has called for a sense

sional development; and career

country.

Estonia, and in Asia, such as

of urgency in the execution of the National Implementation

“The focus should now be on

“Ultimately, the framework

China and Singapore, are mak-

institutionalises meritocracy in

ing significant progress in their

Framework towards the

implementation. While some

the State’s human resources

development commitments,”

Professionalisation of the Public

aspects of the framework

practices by giving effect to

added the commission.

Sector.

will need legislative amend-

the NDP’s recommendations

ments, ministerial directives

about the type of public sector

the framework, which provides

and regulations, others can be

required to drive a developmen-

Lessons from state capture

five pillars on interventions in

implemented immediately,” said

tal state agenda in a democratic

In his weekly newsletter, From

professionalising the Public

the NPC.

system of government.

the Desk of the President, dated

Cabinet recently approved

Service.

The framework is an important

“Countries which have insti-

31 October 2022, President Cyril

milestone towards realising the

tutionalised professionalism in

Ramaphosa noted that state

recruitment and selection within

National Development Plan’s

their public service system, es-

capture exposed the fragility

the Public Service; induction

(NDP) goals for a capable and

pecially those which are part of

of the public sector and cre-

and onboarding; planning and

developmental state. The NDP

the Organisation for Economic

ated a need for government to

The pillars include pre-entry

24

progression and incidents.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

strengthen the sector.

Advisory Panel responsible for

all spheres.

cal and administrative heads

“The report of the State Cap-

the Review of the Draft Pro-

The amendments to the Mu-

of departments across govern-

ture Commission lays bare how

fessionalisation Framework,

nicipal Systems Act, 2000 (Act

ment, including at state-owned

organs of state were system-

Professor Mashupye Maseru-

32 of 2000), which President

enterprises and may be the

atically weakened by undue

mule, said the country will not

Ramaphosa recently signed

cause of the high turnover of

political and corporate interfer-

be able progress if the State is

into law, sets the trend by,

the heads of departments,” the

ence. It further details instances

not capacitated.

among others, barring munici-

NPC said.

where individuals without the

“We can talk about fighting

pal officials from holding party political office.

Expediting these amendments will contribute to the

necessary competence and

poverty and other aspects that

experience were appointed to

are key to the development

strategic positions so that they

of the country but until such

lic Service Act [of 1994] are of

recommendation to stabilise

could be manipulated by private

a time that we address the

particular importance as they

the political-administrative

interests.

question of the capacity of the

aim to devolve administrative

interface.

State, you have not made any

powers to heads of depart-

significant progress,” he said.

ments, thereby aligning them

the decision to designate the

to their financial responsibil-

Director-General in the Presi-

ity as prescribed in the Public

dency as the Head of Public

Finance Management Act

Administration, nationally, and

(PFMA), 1999 (Act 1 of 1999).

Directors-General in the offices

“As we recover from state capture, we must ensure there are consequences for the perpetraneed to make sure that public

Amendments to legislation

institutions can never be weak-

The NPC has welcomed the

ened in this way again," said the

initiative to amend the existing

President.

legislative framework so that

tors of state capture. We also

“The amendments to the Pub-

“This will free Ministers to focus on strategic policy issues.

developments in public service reform since the advent of democracy,” and urged public servants to embrace it “as an important tool for their progression as they work on the front-

“The NPC also welcomes

of the Premiers, provincially, and the extension of their tenures to ten years, subject to

He described the framework as “one of the most significant

implementation of the NDP’s

“As we recover from state capture, we must ensure there are consequences for the perpetrators of state capture. We also need to make sure that public institutions can never be weakened in this way again"

line to deliver on the promise

performance, as a step in the right direction towards establishing stability.

“The proposed amendments to the Public Administration Management and the Public Service Commission Acts are equally important measures

of a better life for every South

the NDP recommendations

The Act, as it currently stands,

for the implementation of the

African”.

related to building the capacity

assigns final accountability and

framework and the proposals in

of the State are written into law,

authority on human resources

the NDP,” the NPC said.

Government Communication

specifically through amend-

and organisational establish-

and Information System in

ments to the Public Service

ment to Ministers while the

ate a single public service and

partnership with the National

Act, 1994 (Act 103 of 1994), the

PFMA of 1999 assigns the pow-

repurpose the Public Service

School of Government hosted

Public Administration Manage-

ers to manage public resources

Commission as the custodian

an Editors' Breakfast Engage-

ment Act, 2014 (Act 11 of 2014)

to heads of departments.

of norms and standards for

ment session to create a

and Public Service Commission

platform for conversation on the

Act, 1997 (Act 46 of 1997).

On 14 November 2022, the

The amendments aim to cre-

“The Mapungubwe Institute

the administration of the State,

for Strategic Reflection’s 2013

including local government, as

The commission has urged

study on the evolution of the

well as national and provincial

the finalisation of these as they

post-apartheid state indicates

public entities covered by the

Addressing the session, the

are at the core of institutionalis-

that this inconsistency exacer-

PFMA of 1999. – SAnews.gov.za

Chairperson of the Ministerial

ing a professional state across

bated conflicts between politi-

best practices of a professional public sector.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

25

FEATURE

Vuk’uzenzele:

Writer: Phakama Mbonambi Additional reporting: Kopo Ndhlovu

A paper for communicating with citizens V

later became a newspaper. The paper’s mission is to inform South Africans, particularly those on the economic margins, about opportunities that government constantly creates to improve people’s lives. It is primarily distributed through knock-and-drop, and smaller proportions delivered in public places with a high foot volume, such as clinics, spaza shops and municipal buildings.

The research was conducted on a sample of 3 500 people

uk’uzenzele, a free

spread across all nine

government newspa-

provinces, and different races

per published twice a

and gender. In January 2022,

month, remains a flagship prod-

qualitative focus groups were

uct of disseminating govern-

also conducted across the

ment information and contin-

country to explore South

ues to fulfil its mission of being

Africans’ opinions on the paper.

a paper for the people through its empowering content.

This is according to research

The paper's primary target

conducted by the Government

audience is Rooted Realists,

Communication and

about 48% (27.8 million) of the

Information System’s Research

country's adult population. They

unit between 22 January and 8

have the most limited access to

April 2022.

information as a result of being

The aim of the research was

in rural areas, high employment

to ascertain the newspaper’s

rate, low levels of education

reach, profile of readers by

and low annual household

segments, readers’ experience

income.

and content interests.

The paper is committed

26

Target audience

While they face huge financial challenges, they rely

to making a difference in

on government grants and

the lives of South Africans.

remain hopeful about changing

Formed in September 2005

their circumstances. They

as a magazine, the publication

also rely on information from

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Key research findings

copy of the newspaper, half

key government messages

were Rooted Realists. About a

can circulate widely through

Due to budget limitations, only

third (32%) of City Seekers also

Vuk’uzenzele.

audience consists of City

850 000 copies of Vuk’uzenzele

reportedly received the paper.

Seekers, who live in urban

are currently being printed

areas, are ambitious, career-

monthly. On average, 552 500

circulation insights, with a

Relevant information

orientated and constantly look

(65%) of these copies are

quarter of Vuk’uzenzele readers

The target audience said the

for work opportunities to better

distributed to Rooted Realists

(26%) saying they shared it

paper’s content was relevant,

their lives. They make up about

and the rest are distributed

with two to four other people,

resonated with them and

25% (14.4 million ) of the adult

to City Seekers and Safely

another 26% saying they

responded to their information

South African population.

Suburbans.

shared the paper with one

needs. The majority of readers

other person and 9% sharing it

(93%) said they enjoyed the

government to search for work opportunities.

The paper’s secondary target

The third target audience is

Given the primary targeted

There were some positive

with five or more people.

content of Vuk’uzenzele and

the Safely Suburbans – they

population, these copies only

live in non-metro urban areas

reach approximately 2% of

and peri-urban areas. They

the intended audience – an

printed copies, approximately

generally believe that their

indication that more financial

2 337 500 people access the

is good,” said one Safely

quality of life has declined and

resources are needed to

paper. Assuming that the

Suburban from Umhluzi,

blame their lack of appropriate

reach information deprived

newspaper is shared with

Mpumalanga.

education as an obstacle to

communities.

Rooted Realists, that translates

accessing employment or better jobs.

The research found that of those who had access to a

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

As a result, from the 850 000

found it useful.

“I would say the paper

A Rooted Realist in Inanda,

to about 8% of the intended

KwaZulu-Natal, said; “... you can

audience – an indication that

understand that when I want a

27

FEATURE

XXX

tender, I have to do this”.

“I would recommend it to

to shape the national mood,

inspiring stories of beneficiaries

someone who is looking for

boost public confidence and

of government programmes

Rooted Realists and City

work and parents because the

raise public awareness on

and initiatives, and stories of

Seekers [respectively] revealed

paper also advertises bursaries

government programmes and

ordinary South Africans who

that the paper created

and scholarships,” said a

initiatives.

accomplish great things despite

awareness on government

respondent from Diepsloot,

programmes. In addition, 27%

Johannesburg.

Around 46% and 34% of

of Rooted Realists and 34%

A total of 7 in 10 people

Vuk’uzenzele, with its high circulation, content relevance

the odds.

These are citizens who live

and usefulness, should be

up to the spirit of the paper’s

of City Seekers stated that the

(72%) said they still preferred

a platform of choice for all

name – Vuk’uzenzele. Finally,

newspaper helped them with

the hardcopy version of

government communicators,

government communicators

information on how to find jobs.

Vuk’uzenzele even when other

especially when sharing

should note that, for now, the

platforms such as Vuk online,

information that is relevant to

intended target audience still

Conclusion

website and the mobile App

the target audiences.

prefers getting the paper as a

Even though the monthly print

were proposed as alternatives.

run covers only a fraction of

In South Africa, a country still grappling with enormous challenges, including poverty

and is read by far more people

What communicators can do with these findings

through sharing.

the targeted audience, the paper is doing well in reaching the intended target audience

hardcopy.

To share stories

and inequality, Vuk’uzenzele

on Vuk'uzenzele,

has a crucial role to play in the

please send an email

dissemination of empowering

to vukuzenzele@

Effective government

information and content that

gcis.gov.za. For

communications, a mandate of

addresses concerns of ordinary

advertising, please

they would recommend it to

government communicators,

South Africans.

contact Jauhara Khan

others.

plays a huge role in helping

Most respondents (91%) said

The paper also showcases

on Jauhara@gcis.gov.

Vuk'uzenzele is published online and as a print version 28

Photo: Pexels

za or 012 473 0010.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

WATER-SAVING TIPS Taking a bath can use between

80 and 150

litres of water per bath.

Kettles should to the brim but with just enough water for your needs. This will reduce your electricity bill too.

containers like cooking pots, as this may result in using more energy to heat the water.

leaking toilet otherwise it can waste up to 100 000 litres of

Fix a

water in one year.

Together we move South Africa forward

FEATURE

Writer: Neo Semono Photos: Unsplash.com

New tobacco Bill: strengthening public health protection measures

T

he Control of the Tobacco

with the World Health Or-

Tobacco and Other Drugs

interventions through system-

and Electronic Delivery

ganisation (WHO) Framework

Research Unit, Dr Catherine

atic monitoring of adult tobacco

Systems Bill, which was

Convention on Tobacco Control

Egbe, is among the people who

use and tracking of key tobacco

– to which South Africa is party.

support the implementation of

indicators.

approved by Cabinet in Septem-

ber 2022, is a crucial cog in the journey to ensuring that health is

extensive consultation with

indeed one’s wealth.

The survey also revealed that

the Bill.

“There are about 25.8% of

the Bill has public support for

various stakeholders, including

South Africans using one form

100% smoke-free public places,

Inherently each person is

the tobacco industry, civil-soci-

of smoked tobacco product or

with 88.4%, or nine out of 10

responsible for their health,

ety organisations and relevant

the other, while about 4.3% are

adults supporting a ban on

however, the math it is not

government departments.

using the smokeless products

smoking in indoor workplaces

like the snuff, chew tobacco,

and public places.

always that simple and the draft

The Global Adult Tobacco

Bill, that is currently before Par-

Survey (GATS), which was

and so on. This doesn't include

liament, is aimed at strengthen-

conducted for the first time in

electronic cigarettes. This is

ment empirical evidence need-

ing South Africa’s public health

South Africa in 2021, high-

just tobacco products,” says

ed to support “and progress

protection measures.

lighted high levels of tobacco

Egbe.

every aspect of the measures in

The Bill seeks to repeal the

30

The Bill has gone through

use and second-hand smoke

The GATS is a global stand-

Egbe says this gives govern-

the new Bill.”

Tobacco Products Control

exposure. The survey’s lead in-

ard household survey aimed at

Act, 1993 (Act 83 of 1993), as

vestigator, a specialist scientist

enhancing countries’ capac-

amended. It will align the coun-

at the South African Medical

ity to develop, implement

Smoke-free public places

try’s public health measures

Research Council Alcohol

and monitor tobacco control

The creation of smoke-free

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

indoor public spaces and certain outdoor public places is essential to protect South Africans from second-hand smoke.

Data from the GATS shows that 11.2% of South Africans are exposed to second-hand smoke at work (7% are non-smokers) and 18% were exposed to tobacco smoke inside their homes (9.6% are non-smokers).

A further 10.8% were exposed to tobacco smoke when visiting restaurants.

In the current legislation, smoking is banned in public places, however designated smoking areas are permitted

with the next person. It talks

will move to a different

in places like restaurants and

about how you can’t smoke in a

kind of pack, ‘deglamor-

bars, provided that these areas

house where a child is present,”

ising’ cigarette packag-

do not take up more than 25%

says Nyatsanza.

ing,” adds Nyatsanza.

Packaging

with the global move-

tional Council against Smoking,

The Bill also provides for plain

ment to try and close down

Dr Sharon Nyatsanza, says

or standardised packaging for

marketing opportunities for

the Bill is comprehensive and

tobacco and nicotine products.

tobacco companies, the pack

tackles advertising, market-

The packaging will have a uni-

“has become the last main area

ing as well as the creation of a

form plain colour and texture

of advertising for cigarettes

smoke-free environment.

and only the brand name and

specifically.”

of the venue.

Deputy Director at the Na-

“Because we run a quit line

product name may appear on

She points out that

Unlike other countries that

on 011 720 3145, we also get

packaging in a standard colour

have put in place graphic

the Tobacco Products Control

calls from people complain-

and typeface.

health warnings on cigarette

Act of 1993.

ing about second-hand smoke

Nyatsanza notes that current

in restaurants, or sometimes

health warnings on tobacco

concerning apartments, where

products only take up about

neighbours smoke in such a way that others find it difficult to stay in their own apartment.

packaging, South Africa is still using text health warnings.

According to the WHO, there are different types of e-ciga-

The Bill also makes provision

rettes in use which are also

20% of the pack and are only in

for the removal of points of sale

known as electronic nicotine

the form of text.

advertisement and marketing.

delivery systems or non-nico-

“A lot of countries globally

tine delivery systems.

things because it says even

type of packaging to introduce

Electronic cigarettes

in a private dwelling, a person

pictorial warnings, which are

The Bill also talks to the regula-

by the user. “These so-called e-

cannot smoke in such a way

more visible. When the new Bill

tion of electronic cigarettes,

liquids may or may not contain

that they unreasonably interfere

is passed, you will see that we

which are not covered under

nicotine (but not tobacco) but

“This Bill does touch on those

have moved [away] from that

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

The systems heat a liquid to create aerosols that are inhaled

31

FEATURE

also typically contain additives,

According to the GATS sur-

“Cigarettes are known to be

vey, people who are smoking

a gateway drug to many of the

so they wouldn’t want to let

can be toxic to people’s health,”

tobacco products the highest,

people who today are smoking

go. For us in the public health

notes the WHO.

are within the 45 and 64 years

hard drugs. They will tell you

community, it’s all about the

age bracket.

that they started smoking with

health of the people because

cigarettes,” explains Egbe.

people are dying. The latest

“Most if not all the regulations on tobacco are applicable to

“The highest users of e-

e-cigarettes,” adds Egbe while

cigarettes and hookah are

also noting that emerging

those between 15 and 24 years

of the view that the tobacco

the figure at 31 000 people dy-

products including e-cigarettes

age bracket. So you can see

industry is targeting children.

ing yearly from tobacco-related

and hookah are mostly used by

that there's a problem here. A

younger age groups – with the

different set of people are being

industry manages to frame the

highest percentage usage of e-

targeted with these products,

product as a lifestyle product;

fact that the Bill includes a

cigarettes being in the 15 – 24

so that more people will get ad-

for example, think of e-ciga-

monitoring committee.

age group.

dicted to nicotine,” says Egbe.

rettes, the flavours [and their]

Both Egbe and Nyatsanza are

“It is about framing. Once the

the Department of Health tried

“The highest users of e-cigarettes

to stop e-cigarettes from being

and hookah are those between 15

brought into the country.

and 24 years age bracket. So you

“Now, when the department is trying to regulate the product,

diseases.”

Nyatsanza commended the

“Our hope is that the commitholders involved to monitor

as smoking cessation aids by the industry. Egbe explains that

statistics in South Africa places

tee will have different stake-

These are mainly positioned

can see that there's a problem here.

what the industry is doing to ensure what kind of products are coming in; to ensure that our laws are still comprehensive enough and that the law is being implemented as best as

they are saying that they are

A different set of people are being

smoking cessation aids. The

targeted with these products, so

Egbe is of the view that the

consequence of having a law

that more people will get addicted to

move to regulate the tobacco

that has not been updated in

nicotine.”

line with changes in the market are unregulated currently”.

it can be,” she says.

industry is a necessary one to protect lives.

“At the end of the day, we

is that product like e-cigarettes

must put lives first. Lives before

Protecting children

colourfulness. If they manage

profits. Government is not over-

are regulated by the South

The majority of smokers started

to place it as a lifestyle product,

reaching at all,” says Egbe.

African Health Products Regu-

doing so as teenagers, a

we have a problem with kids

latory Authority. So, if you want

phenomenon seen all over the

being attracted to that. Nicotine

always be opposition to such

to present these products as

world.

is very addictive,” says Nyat-

Bills.

“In South Africa, medicines

32

gives them the highest profit,

flavours and chemicals that

sanza.

Nyatsanza adds that there will

cessation aid, get them certi-

“If you ask a teenager who is

fied, pass [them] through the

smoking today, they will tell you

normal procedure. Even the

that they will quit when they

Public health

normal nicotine patches that is

want to quit. But by the time

Egbe further adds that ciga-

back. The interests of industry

available over the counter went

you want to quit, you’re hooked

rettes are still the highest

and public health will never be

through that procedure,” says

and you have to deal with the

earner for the industry.

in alignment,” she says.

Egbe.

addiction.

“This is not only in South Africa, but globally. It is not surprising to see the industry push

”It is still the product that

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Source: SAnews Additional reporting: Miriam Mokoena

FEATURE

Phaahla concerned about the annual rise in HIV cases

W

hile South Africa has made significant inroads in the

prevention and treatment of HIV and AIDS, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has raised concerns about infections that continue to

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla.

soar.

“Even though the country's HIV prevalence has remained

14.8%, respectively, while the

to stem the tide of rising HIV

this is the key part of target-

stable at 13.5% over the last five

Western Cape had the lowest

infections.”

ing young people, particularly

years, the number of people

at 8.3%, followed by the North-

living with HIV continues to

ern Cape at 10%.

rise every year as the country's

new HIV infections in young

adolescent girls, who are most vulnerable to new infections.

people aged between 15 and

He said the goal of the cam-

jority of the epidemic burden

24, account for roughly 14 000

paign was to reduce the num-

“The path that our coun-

falls on Africans, who are more

new infections in young males

ber of young South Africans

try has taken, as well as our

vulnerable and often excluded

and 55 000 in young women.

who get HIV and other sexually

contribution to the mission of

from accessing healthcare.

population grows,” he said.

achieving the objective of zero

Meanwhile, the Minister

“In light of these numbers, we need to keep working together

transmitted diseases by 40%.

Phaahla urged Premiers,

AIDS-related deaths, zero new

applauded the Free State for

across all sectors to raise

Mayors and Councillors to play

infections, and zero prejudice,

doing well in terms of testing,

awareness and improve our

their part in the AIDS response

has been a difficult one.”

having already surpassed the

messages about prevention

and to work with all social

94% threshold.

and sticking to treatment.”

partners.

The Minister was speaking at the official commemoration of

Phaahla commended the

“We can only meet our

World AIDS Day at Dr Petrus

Youth

South African National AIDS

targets if we work side by side

Molemela Stadium in Bloem-

Phaahla said government was

Council for launching the

with civil society, development

fontein, in the Free State on 1

working around the clock to

South African National Youth

partners, traditional and Khoi-

December 2022.

address the alarming increase

HIV Prevention Strategy in

San leaders, traditional health

in the nation's youth, which

June 2022, as a three-year

practitioners, organised labour,

malanga and the Free State

continues to experience high

youth HIV prevention cam-

and business,” he said.

had the highest HIV prevalence

rates of new HIV infections.

paign.

rates at 18.3%, 15.9%, and

“This is a critical issue if we are

In 2021, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpu-

34

Research shows that the ma-

Recent data revealed that

“However, each of us must

The Minister believes that

step up and be counted in the

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

live longer and contribute to building the South Africa of our dreams.”

New treatment In December 2022, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) announced that it had regisfight against the HIV epidemic,

COVID-19 pandemic had on

to HIV and AIDS, sexually

tered Cabotegravir (Apretude

because while we may not all

HIV prevention and treatment

transmitted infections and TB.

600 mg/3ml injection) – a

be infected, we are all affected.”

services.

In addition, government has

“You may remember that in the past, someone close to

long-acting HIV pre-exposure prophylactic PrEP.

Progress

put in place catch-up plans for

you died from an AIDS-related

Phaahla reflected on the pro-

HIV and TB so that services

disease every week and in

that people living with HIV

gress made in the fight to elimi-

and care can be better inte-

every community. Those days

may use, together with other

nate AIDS as a public health

grated.

are long gone and should

ARVs, to keep the virus in their

never return.

bodies from making copies of

threat by 2030, as set by Joint

The new National Strate-

“This is an ARV treatment

United Nations Programme on

gic Plan for 2023 – 2028 is

HIV/AIDS.

expected to place people and

scientific advances in how HIV

used to prevent HIV infection

communities at the centre of

is treated, and we now know

it is called PrEP,” explained

government was committed to

the country's efforts to over-

a lot more about the virus and

SAHPRA in a statement.

reversing the impact that the

come inequities in the response

how to treat it.”

He assured citizens that

“There have been many

authority, the treatment is the

entists are also hopeful about

“first and only long-acting, in-

the benefits of treatment as a

jectable PrEP for reducing the

preventive measure and the

risk of getting HIV. This drug

progress being made toward

is a safe and highly effective

ultimately finding a cure and a

prevention option for people at

vaccine.

substantial risk of HIV infec-

that the country’s antiretroviral

REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

According to the regulatory

He told the crowd that sci-

In addition, he announced

Equalise access to health services for all

itself. When such medicine is

tion”.

This is expected to boost

(ARV) treatment programme

government efforts in reduc-

has resulted in increased life

ing new infection rates.

expectancy and low rates of

“SAHPRA joins the global

HIV transmission from mother

fight against this disease. The

to child, which is one of the

priority review pathway fol-

greater successes in the re-

lowed to assess and finally reg-

sponse efforts to save lives.

ister [the] long-acting Cabote-

“This means that millions of

gravir marks a bold step in this

South Africans who previously

direction,” said SAHPRA Chief

had little chance of having a

Executive Officer, Dr Boitumelo

stable quality of life can now

Semete-Makokotlela.

35

Source: SAnews Additional information: DSI

FEATURE

SA's 24-hour space weather centre takes off S

outh Africa has a new 24-hour, state-of-theart regional space

weather centre – the only one of its kind in Africa.

The centre was launched in Hermanus, Western Cape in November 2022. Higher Edu-

cation, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, described the launch as a historic development and illustration of the country’s excellence in science.

“It is yet another demonstration that the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), together with its agencies, continues to respond to the socio-economic challenges of our country by using science, technology and innovation as a catalyst and catalyser for economic development.”

The new centre was develHigher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande

36

oped by the South African Space Agency (SANSA) – an

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

entity of the DSI. SANSA had been operating

phenomena.

Through SANSA, Nzimande

mine waste dam that collapsed

tion at the centre of the coun-

recently.

try’s developmental agenda.

SANSA’s mandate is to

the Space Weather Centre for

said the DSI has now man-

the past 10 years, although

aged to improve the coordina-

ity that we are launching is a

promote and use space and

with limited focus, monitor-

tion of South Africa’s space

direct response to our good

cooperation in space-related

ing the sun and its activity

arena to maximise the benefits

safety track record, which

activities, foster research in

and providing space weather

of current and planned space

led to the International Civil

space science, advance scien-

forecasts, warnings, alerts and

activities.

Aviation Organisation selecting

tific engineering and develop

SANSA as one of the two re-

human capabilities in space

KwaZulu-Natal, Nzimande said

gional centres to provide space

science.

the agency provided satellite

weather services, including

tions on earth, space weather,

imagery to the National Disas-

solar storm forecasts and

the creation of an environment

such as solar storms can have

ter Management Centre and

warnings to the global aviation

conducive to industrial devel-

devastating impacts on satel-

the Department of Cooperative

sector,” Nzimande said.

opment in space technologies

lites, national power grids, and

Governance and Traditional

communication and navigation

Affairs to support the disaster

systems. For this reason, early

response and understanding

Development agenda

warnings and forecasts are

of the level of damage.

The unveiling is part of the

September 2022, took three

overall strategy to position sci-

years to build. The upgrades

ence, technology and innova-

include infrastructure develop-

environmental data on space weather conditions.

Just like harsh weather condi-

crucial for protecting infrastructure from space weather

During the recent floods in

The same service was provided at the Jagersfontein

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

“The space weather capabil-

It also includes supporting

within the framework.

The weather centre, which was completed at the end of

37

FEATURE XXX

SANSA has since ensured its increased focus on transforming the space sector through skills development and public outreach.

The space agency, according to Nzimande, continues to implement activities targeting women in science and previously disadvantaged ment, instrumentation deploy-

tablishment grant of R70.89

the benefit of the nation and

youth, while inspiring future

ment, product and service de-

million received from the DSI

Africa.

space scientists and entre-

velopment, and skills capability

and R36.6 million invested

development.

directly by SANSA.

Through SANSA’s researchers, South Africa has a growing international footprint

preneurs through its public engagement programme.

“Thousands of learners

Skills developement

Space

and impact on new research

have, through the years,

The Space Weather Centre

within the space sector.

engaged with SANSA ex-

Leading operations at the

is dedicated to growing the

"It is yet another dem-

centre is Dr Mpho Tshisa-

nation's science, engineering,

onstration that the DSI,

festivals, school visits, sci-

phungo, supported by nine

technology and innovation

together with its agencies,

ence centres, and now even

space weather forecasters,

sectors. This will offer op-

continues to respond to the

online.”

most of whom are young

portunities to develop scarce

socio-economic challenges

black female science gradu-

skills and increase national

of our country using science,

heartened to witness the

ates.

research output, while ensur-

technology and innovation as

contribution of SANSA to the

ing that usable products and

a catalyst for economic de-

people and the global space

services are generated for

velopment," said the Minister.

industry. – SAnews.gov.za

"The Space Weather Centre has opened up many op-

perts at science and career

The Minister said he is

portunities for young people in South Africa to develop a wide range of skills – from mathematics and physics to computer science – because we also need developers for our space weather product development," said Tshisaphungo.

The total investment, according Minister Nzimande, amounted to R107.5 million over the three years, which included a ring-fenced es-

38

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

I KNOW.

I ACT. ICORRUPTION. STOP

FIGHTING

CORRONUE’SPBTUSIINOEN SS IS EVERY

Report fraud and corruption on 0800 701 701 Follow the conversation on #SAAgainstCorruption

FEATURE

XXX

Source: DSI

NASA, South Africa renew lunar exploration partnership programme, Dr Badri Younes,

knowledge," said DSI Director-

joined SANSA officials at the

General, Dr Phil Mjwara.

sod-turning ceremony, where the LEGS antenna will be built.

"Location, weather and existing

T

Cruces, New Mexico, and a still-to-be-determined location in

antenna.

Australia. With LEGS stations in North America, South Africa and

for a better spot on Earth than

Australia, the Moon will always

here in South Africa, with whom

be in Earth's view to ensure es-

we first partnered six decades

sential, enhanced direct-to-Earth

ago to land the first humans on

communications capabilities up

the lunar surface," said Younes.

to two million kilometres away

South Africa was home to a ground tracking station, out-

through NASA's Near Space Network.

"We are pleased that this

beesthoek, that played a critical

project has reached a significant

ence and Innovation

proximately 240 km north east

role in NASA's Apollo missions

milestone with the support of the

(DSI) and the National

of Cape Town, the site will be

in the 1960s. Artemis, name for

DSI as well as the partnership of

Aeronautics and Space Adminis-

one of three Lunar Exploration

Apollo's mythical twin sister, will

NASA.

tration (NASA) have signed a let-

Ground Sites (LEGS) placed

land the first woman and person

ter of intent to formalise a space

strategically around the globe.

of colour on the Moon, paving

station extends SANSA space

the way for a long-term lunar

capabilities and specialisation,

nications antennas are intended

presence, and serving as a step-

taking the agency a notch higher

a sod-turning ceremony with

to ensure near-continuous

ping stone to send astronauts to

as a global player in space

NASA and the South African Na-

connectivity between astronauts

Mars.

science and technology," said

tional Space Agency (SANSA),

on NASA's Artemis spacecraft

an entity of the DSI, signalling

and those who will subsequently

mutually beneficial. The Matjies-

cial Services Executive Tiaan

the renewal of the partnership

come to work on and around the

fontein ground station will

Strydom.

through the establishment of a

lunar surface.

alleviate increased demand for

exploration partnership.

The signing was followed by

new communications facility that

40

White Sands Complex in Las

tein the ideal place to build this

side Johannesburg at Hartehe Department of Sci-

future LEGS facilities at NASA's

infrastructure make Matjiesfon-

"We really couldn't have asked

Dr Phil Mjwara and Dr Badri Younes after signing a letter of intent to formalise a space exploration partnership.

The Matjiesfontein site will join

Located in Matjiesfontein, ap-

These 18 to 24-metre commu-

Deputy Associate Adminis-

"We see this partnership as

"The Matjiesfontien ground

the agency's Acting Commer-

"The Moon brought NASA and

NASA's Deep Space Network,

South Africa together 60 years

will help the Artemis missions

trator for NASA's Space Com-

allowing Artemis to meet its

ago. I'm so pleased it's done so

return humans to the Moon.

munications and Navigation

goals and expand our scientific

again today," added Younes.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

What will people say?

There is no excuse for abuse.

Police: 10111 Stop Gender Violence: 0800 150 150 Childline: 0800 055 555

People can only help if they know.

TELL SOMEONE.

Violence and abuse are poison to society. Let’s make it stop.

Source: SAnews Additional reporting: Lia Naidoo

FEATURE

Pan-African Parliament ‘fully functional’ as it works towards restoring its image

T

“There's a new Bureau that was elected in June 2022 and since then, a lot has been done to repair the image of the PAP and African leaders as a whole.”

Ordinary Session of the sixth Parliament The Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament was held from

he Pan-African

scended into chaos with some

delegates demanding the rota-

24 October to 11 November

Parliament (PAP), also

of the Members of Parliament

tion of leadership to end the

2022, at Gallagher Convention

known as the African

exchanging blows over the

dominance of some regions.

Centre in Midrand, Gauteng.

Parliament, is working around

principle of regional rotation

“First of all, what was seen

Ten newly elected members

the clock to restore its image

in the election of the Bureau,

on TV were unfortunate events

from various countries were

under the new leadership,

forcing the session of May

and it's important to note that

sworn in during the sitting.

following scenes that hogged

2021 to be aborted.

Parliament is back and fully

headlines last year.

This is after the PAP de-

42

cations, Jeffrey Onganga.

The discourse emitted from the southern and northern

The sitting was guided by the

functional,” said PAP Acting

African Union (AU) theme of

Head of Media and Communi-

2022; “Building resilience in

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

“Citizen engagement is another area that could be strengthened and I would like to encourage you to consider standing platforms/mechanisms for youth engagement as well as civil society because of its research capacity in the promotion of accountability, which is at the core of the work of Parliamentarians” nutrition on the African con-

rise to the ideas of the likes of

mandate to contribute to the

which provides a framework

tinent: Accelerate the human

Professor Ali Mazrui, Kwame

“strengthening of the culture

for election monitoring on our

capital, social and economic

Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba,

of democracy, good govern-

continent. Some of our coun-

development”.

Jean Martine Cisse, Thomas

ance and the rule of law in the

tries have held elections this

Sankara, Nelson Mandela and

continent”.

year, still more are expected to

Speaking at the opening of the first Ordinary Session of

Samora Machel,” he said.

“This includes through the

hold them in 2023.

the Sixth Parliament, Justice

“We need to interrogate the

and Constitutional Develop-

responsibility of the PAP as an

ment Minister Ronald Lamola

institution in supporting the

noted that good governance is

AU,” he said.

critical in ensuring that Africa such as infrastructure devel-

Unifying the continent

opment and innovation.

Turning to unifying the conti-

begins to thrive in sectors

nent through integration, the

He said with a population of about 1.4 billion and a median

Minister highlighted that a

age of some 19 years old,

key area of work is the African

the continent has untapped

Continental Free Trade Area

potential.

(AfCFTA).

“The AfCFTA is also one of

“We cannot continue to govern in the same way we

the tools at our disposal to

have been governing in the

contribute to greater integra-

past. Corruption and mis-gov-

tion but it would require the

ernance should never define

finalisation of harmonisation

us. Instead, Africa should be

of standards across the con-

defined by digitisation, innova-

tinent and the streamlining

tion, world class infrastructure

of our supply chains among

and modernisation of the

others.

African continent.

Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola

“As our continent has always been a reservoir of innova-

“Much depends on the progress that we make at the national level to adopt the

tion and dynamic leadership,

Lamola emphasised that

implementation of the Afri-

relevant legislation that will

we need a generation across

as an institution supporting

can Charter on Democracy,

allow the commencement of

the continent that will give

the AU, the PAP has a critical

Elections and Governance,

preferential trade, for instance,

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

43

FEATURE

on trade in goods,” Lamola

another area that could be

Relevance

said.

strengthened and I would like

Speaking to SAnews, On-

to encourage you to consider

ganga shot down the notion

that the PAP, whose member

area is the engagement of

standing platforms/mecha-

that the PAP is an “expensive

states delegates attend the

Africans not only on the

nisms for youth engagement

talk shop”.

sittings twice a year, remains

continent but also abroad.

as well as civil society because

He added that another key

“Another area that we can

every citizen.”

“We must not undermine the

For this reason, he believes

the best mechanism to reach

of its research capacity in the

power that comes with Parlia-

exploit to realise the aspira-

promotion of accountability,

mentarians from all over the

tions of the African people

which is at the core of the work

continent convening. A Parlia-

for lacking real power. Only 14

is to work with the African

of Parliamentarians,” he said.

mentarian from South Africa,

out of 54 AU member states

meeting with a Parliamentar-

have ratified a 2014 agreement

Diaspora, who can help build

the people.

The PAP has been criticised

the much needed skills for

During the session, various

ian from Equatorial Guinea –

– known as the Malabo Pro-

future careers in our continent

rules and procedures were

there is something that comes

tocol – to give the Parliament

as well as contribute to the

adopted, including the principle

from it,” he stressed.

legislative powers. At least 28

transfer of technology which

of rotation for leadership

we sorely need.

positions across all organs of

executive can go to every

the PAP.

country, every day, talking to

“Citizen engagement is

“There is no way the AU

countries are needed for this to happen.

“One of the priorities of this Parliament is for its members to ratify this protocol because that gives more power to the PAP and it addresses more concerns. It gives people the opportunity to see this Parliament in a position that allows it to do the work that it is supposed to do,” Onganga explained.

Established in March 2004, the PAP is one of the supporting bodies of the AU. It serves as a platform for citizens and grass-root organizations to have a voice in decisions and challenges that face Africa. It also facilitates and oversees the implementation of AU policies, objectives and programmes. – SAnews.gov.za

Photo: PAP

44

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Source: SAnews Additional reporting: Miriam Mokoena Photos: Philatelic Federation of South Africa

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP FEATURE

Celebrating South Africa's rich history was ushered in our beautiful republic, following the first ever democratic elections, we embarked on a journey of building a united nation after our ugly historic past characterised by colonialism and apartheid.

“We embarked on a journey of reconciliation, which demonstrated to the world that humanity can embark on a journey of recognising that there is indeed only one race,” the Deputy Minister said.

In a statement, the Deputy Minister explained that the event was a collaboration between South Africa and the Federation International The Road to Democracy stamp.

E 46

De Philatelie – an organisation that plays an important

xclusive letters that

Centre, from 8 to 12 Novem-

South Africa’s rich history

role in the celebration of the

were written by For-

ber 2022.

through showcasing stamps

international community

designed and collected

of philately collection and exhibition.

mer President Nelson

Speaking at the event’s

Mandela from Pollsmoor

media launch, Communica-

throughout the world depict-

Prison were showcased at

tions and Digital Technolo-

ing events, heroes and hero-

the International Philately

gies Deputy Minister Philly

ines leading to South Africa’s

exhibition is “Road to

Exhibition held at Cape Town

Mapulane said the event

democracy.

Democracy,” which has a

International Convention

was aimed at celebrating

“Since 1994, when freedom

“The theme for this year’s

particular significance for us

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

by stamps in the history of mankind.

“Stamps have always

Meanwhile, the SAPO has

played an important part in

launched a new limited edi-

the transfer of cultural, social

tion stamp titled, “The Road

and historical messages,

to Democracy”. It depicts a

across the world. Stamps

peace dove combined with

travel the world and in so do-

words from the preamble of

ing, communicate important

the Constitution of the Re-

historical events to a global

public of South African, 1996.

audience, and share with

“South Africa’s constitution

the world significant data on

is regarded as one of the

the evolution of our species,

most advanced in the world,

and in the celebration of our

and it entrenches fundamen-

diversity,” he added.

tal rights, freedoms and civil

The Deputy Minister com-

liberties, while guaranteeing

mended the South African

the independence of watch-

Post Office (SAPO) – a key

dogs such as the Public Pro-

role player in the exhibition

tector and Auditor-General,”

– on its role in the develop-

said the SAPO.

ment of philatelic material

The stamp, which was

and keeping South Africa

designed by SAPO employee

connected to the world.

Thea Clemons, costs R5.40.

“After our transition to de-

Poster supplied by DCDT

New limited stamp

“A total of 225 000 Road to

mocracy, the SAPO ensured

Democracy stamps have

that the history of our nation

been printed and once sold

was presented to the world

out, will not be reprinted,”

in a positive and accurate

added the SAPO.

context, while ensuring that

About 1 500 delegates from

we celebrate important mile-

about 60 countries partici-

socially and politically, and is

through propagating mes-

stones and recognise those

pated in the exhibition, which

a continuation of the cel-

sages of the equality of all

behind these milestones.

showcased 1 600 frames

ebration of our reintegration

people through the design,

into the global community of

collection and sharing of

stamps that celebrate the

world as well as exclusive

democratic nations.

stamps,” said the Deputy

heroes of our struggle to

letters written by Former

Minister.

attain democracy, and the

President Mandela.

“We are honoured to extend our hand of Ubuntu to thank them for the important

Stamps shaping history

role they have played even

The Deputy Minister detailed

during our darkest period,

the important role played

the philatelic community and

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

“Today, across the world,

important historical figures of

of stamps from all over the

Collectors who are not

our nation, enjoy a prominent

in Cape Town can send

role in stamp collections,”

an email to SAstamps@

added Mapulane.

postoffice.co.za to order the stamps.

47

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Calls to improve access to education for people with disabilities

T

he Department of

easily available at a reasonable

Women, Youth and

cost.

Persons with Disabili-

ties (DWYPD) has emphasised

organisations fully understand

the need for the allocation of

how to align their corporate

resources and improved access

social investments to the Na-

to education for persons with dis-

tional Development Plan, with

abilities. The message came as

regards to empowering persons

the country commemorated Dis-

with disabilities,” the depart-

ability Rights Awareness Month

ment noted in a statement.

(DRAM) – from 3 November to 3 December.

48

“An environment where

The department explained that the creation of barrier-free

“Imagine a South Africa

environments requires collec-

where everyone can move

tive and concurrent action by

freely and access information

law and policy makers, service

swiftly and effortlessly, espe-

providers, regulatory bodies,

cially persons with disabilities,

the private sector as well as or-

and where assistive devices are

ganisations of and for persons

A man using an assistive device to take down notes.

with disabilities.

under the theme; “Empower-

The 2022 DRAM was held

ing persons with disabilities

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

A speaker and a sign language interpreter during the launch of DRAM.

through resourceful, sustain-

sibility must be promoted. It

able and safe environments”.

noted that accessibility “can

•

Universal design and access; and

•

pendence.

“They include, for example,

Reasonable accommoda-

loop systems, sub texting and

tion measures.

alternative input for cognitive

“This year’s theme empha-

be achieved by ensuring that

sises the importance of resolv-

services and information are

ing existing barriers towards

tailored to the needs of persons

disability inclusion by ensuring

with disabilities” and ensuring

dressing the focus areas in

electrical assistive devices.

resourceful, sustainable and

their participation and inclusion

their own right and as a holistic

When information and commu-

safe environments for and with

as well as “drawing attention

solution, requires collective and

nication platforms and technol-

persons with disabilities and

to the most neglected groups

concurrent action by law and

ogy are available, affordable

also specially recognising that

within the spectrum of dis-

policy makers, service provid-

and accessible, they signifi-

not all disabilities are visible,”

ability”.

ers, regulatory bodies, the

cantly improve the inclusion of

private sector as well as rights

persons with disabilities in all

six areas that need to be ad-

holders and/or their represent-

aspects of society,” the depart-

tional Convention on the Rights

dressed in order to remove

ative organisations.

ment explained.

of Persons with Disabilities

barriers to access and partici-

emphasises that State Parties

pation, and these include:

have legal obligations to ensure

•

The department highlighted

added the department.

Article 9 of the United Na-

accessibility to persons with disabilities.

•

In this vein, the DWYPD said

It also emphasised that ad-

assistance and computer or

Government intends to con-

Changing attitudes and

Assistive technology

behaviour;

Assistive technology is an

disabilities by ensuring that

Access to the built environ-

umbrella term that includes as-

all government departments

ment;

sistive, adaptive, and rehabilita-

prioritise their responsibility

tinue upholding and promoting the rights of persons with

the development and imple-

•

Access to transport;

tive devices and services for

towards the Disability Rights

mentation of national laws and

•

Access to information and

persons with disabilities. These

Agenda.– SAnews.gov.za

communication;

enable them to attain inde-

policies that advance acces-

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

49

Writer: Miriam Mokoena Photos: SARC

FEATURE

A boost for Rooibos research DSI’s investment, “taking the combined funding to almost

to the call with a proposal

R10-million”.

seeking to establish a scientif-

DSI Sector and Local Innovation Director Sunita Kalan said the funding was made

benefits of Rooibos.

The proposal was among the six that were approved for

Innovation Fund (SIF) – a pro-

funding in this phase of the

gramme aimed at increasing

SIF programme.

incentivising increased invest-

Strengthening research

ment into research, develop-

SARC Research Director

ment and innovation (RDI).

Joe Swart said the partner-

sectors in the economy by

Public-private partnership

ship will give scientists the opportunity to further their work and to better understand

“Given the decline in pri-

and harness the true value of

vate sector investment into

Rooibos.

research and development

“The demand for natural

(R&D) in recent years, the

medicinal products in modern

SIF has helped to create an

medicine as complementary

enabling environment for

or alternative therapies is on

RDI priorities that are largely

the increase, however, the

driven by the industry in a

potential medicinal values of

co-funding arrangement with

these plants, including Rooi-

government.

bos, are not always properly

he Department

unlocking the potential socio-

of Science and

economic value of South Af-

new approaches to fostering

and the industry and wider

Innovation (DSI) has

“The intention is to explore

researched and documented,

rica’s favourite tisane,” said the

RDI partnerships with the pri-

sector can benefit from an

invested R4.8 million into

SA Rooibos Council (SARC) in

vate sector, as well as building

increased focus on R&D in

scientific research into the

a statement.

stronger links between in-

this area,” he said.

health benefits of Rooibos.

“The investment is aimed at

50

ic evidence base for the health

available through the Sector

the competitiveness of various

T

The SARC said it responded

The council also revealed that it would match the

dustry and the public science system,” she added.

While research has already confirmed the beneficial prop-

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

research has been published in 35 different articles and were presented at 53 conferences.

“Two researchers obtained fulltime employment at Stellenbosch University on completion of their Rooibosrelated studies and a further two had their master’s degrees bumped up to PhDs, as

Workers at a Rooibos plant

a result of the novelty of their erties of Rooibos, Swart said

bos,” he said.

which is a leading cause of

Rooibos-related research

cancer, is good for the heart,

study,” said Swart.

lack of funding was hindering

Swart added that the trials

progress. “The additional in-

have a potential to “uncover

helps to control blood glu-

vestment will help the industry

alternative ways to help man-

cose, fights inflammation and

provided to the SARC, the

to move forward with studies

age many modern-day dis-

reduces stress and anxiety.

DSI has also strengthened

that include human trials – an

eases, including cancer, heart

important step in the develop-

disease and other metabolic

ment of therapies containing

diseases like diabetes and

Growing interest in Rooibos research

Rooibos as an active ingredi-

Alzheimer’s”.

According to Swart, there

in the Western Cape and the

is a growing trend among

Eastern Cape.

ent.

“Human studies are para-

According to the SARC,

In addition to the funding

the Rooibos and Honeybush sectors through support provided to community growers

Rooibos has already been

researchers to prioritise Rooi-

In 2021, the European Com-

mount as it will allow us to

hailed for its chemoprotec-

bos as part of their novel food

mission registered Rooibos in

make scientifically-recognised

tive properties – reducing the

or functional food research,

its lists of Protected Designa-

health claims regarding Rooi-

incidence of inflammation,

as well as for studies focus-

tions of Origin and Protected

ing on metabolic and lifestyle

Geographical Indication,

diseases.

joining the likes of Cham-

“Since 2016, the SARC

be included in the European

were headed by 23 Principal

Union’s (EU) Protected Geo-

Investigators, involving 43

graphical Indication register.

national and international re-

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

pagne and Irish whiskey to

has funded 23 studies that

Besides allowing South

searchers (mostly professors

African’s Rooibos industry to

and associate professors).

use the EU logo, the decision

Eight post-doctoral students

means that people cannot

were granted employment

call tea Rooibos if it was not

contracts and ten completed

cultivated or wild-harvested in

PhDs, 25 master’s degrees,

designated local municipali-

and eight honours degrees

ties of the Western Cape and

were awarded. The body of

Northern Cape.

51

GROOMING AND ST YLE

1

Party season

Writer: Gilda Narsimdas Photos: Gilda Narsimdas

wardrobe must-haves I

t’s finally summer and that means just one thing – it’s party season. Whether it’s family

festive season get-togethers, office parties or friends enjoying a dinner – these are some of the season’s must-haves to amp up your wardrobe. Happy Holidays!

Ladies

1. Take advantage of the warmer weather with this long, strappy

satin dress in this gorgeous orangey bronze. Get it at Zara: R1 399.

4

2. Summer is all about bright colours and light fabrics, like this orange shirt from the new Brasserie Hennes collection from H&M: R359.

3. Embrace that next level energy of rapper Cardi B with her brand new collection in collaboration with Reebok. Expect bright colours and bold styles like these Cardi Slides in ultima purple, Reebok: R1 199.

4. Get out your dancing shoes – and if you haven’t treated yourself to a pair recently, grab these with the block heel from Aldo: R1 399.

2

5. There’s nothing like a pair of statement earrings to elevate your look, whether it’s smart casual or formal. We adore these sunflower earrings from French jewellery designer Isabelle Toledano, available from 24s.com: R1 300.

5

3

* Prices correct at the time of writing

52

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

7

Men 6. Inspired by nature, the new Adidas collaboration with producer/rapper Pharrell Williams is a wonderful extension of his self-expression. We love the entire collection, but especially

6

these Hu NMDs, Adidas: R4 499.

7. Stay comfortable and stylish in these slim-fit chinos from Levi’s. They come in a variety of colours and the tapered leg has added stretch in the fabric: R1 099.

8. There’s nothing like a cotton shirt with a good fit. Pair this pink shirt with either shorts for a casual look or smarten up with pants for day or night, Woolworths: R399.

9. There is a reason Sebago shoes have reached icon status, they are timeless leather boat shoes that last for years. They should be a wardrobe staple, get the original dark brown docksides, Sebago: R2 500.

10. We love a versatile blazer you can pair with pretty much anything to spruce up your look. Try this Comfort blazer from Zara: R1 299.

8 10

9

* Prices correct at the time of writing Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

53

FOOD XXX AND WINE

Writer: Nicholas Francis Photos: Shutterstock

Festive feast T

he festive season is meant for people to spend time with

dressing and sprinkle with

roast with salt and pepper,

family and friends. Say goodbye to hours in the kitchen

oregano to serve.

roll it and tie with string.

• Mix rosemary, garlic and

prepping your Christmas lunch. We have some quick and

easy delicious recipes that will have the family lining up for seconds.

Roast Beef

two tablespoons of olive oil

Ingredients:

Roasted sweet potato salad (courtesy of www.taste.com.au)

• Combine the fresh cream,

Ingredients:

• Cover and set aside to al-

mayonnaise, lime juice and seasoning in a jug.

• ¼ cup fresh cream.

low the flavours to develop.

• ¼ cup mayonnaise.

• Place the oil in a large bak-

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime

ing dish and preheat for five

juice.

• 2 teaspoons smoked chi-

minutes.

• Add the sweet potato and

potle seasoning.

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin

and stir.

• 2 kg deboned rib eye roast.

• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided.

olive oil.

• 1.2 kg sweet potato,

• ¼ cup chopped garlic.

• ¼ cup chopped Fresh rosemary.

Instructions:

for one to one-and-a-half

• Preheat your oven at 180 °C.

with left over herb and

minutes or until the sweet

• Heat two tablespoons of

garlic mixture.

tender.

dium heat.

• Transfer the sweet potato to

• Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes, carve and serve.

• Generously season your

a serving platter.

•

Use a sharp knife to cut down the length of the cob

• 2 green shallots sliced.

close to the core to remove

• Fresh oregano leaves, to

the kernels.

serve.

tray and put into the pre-

through cooking, for 40

pieces.

chopped.

• Place roast into a baking

• Periodically baste the roast

olive oil in a pan over me-

pepper), deseeded and

herb and garlic mixture all

hours.

potato is crisp and corn is

• 1 red capsicum (bell

the stove and brush the

heated oven to let it bake

• String to tie roast.

coarsely chopped into 5 cm • 1 corncob.

all sides. Remove pan from

over the roast.

corncob.

• Bake, turning halfway

• Sear roast in heated pan on

• Scatter corn on top of the sweet potato with the bell

Instructions: • Preheat your oven at 180 °C.

54

pepper and shallot.

• Drizzle over the chipotle

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Gingerbread Trifle (courtesy of www.delicious.com. au) Ingredients: • 900 ml double cream.

• 1 cup dulce de leche (or other caramel sauce).

• 250 g sour cream.

• 1/3 cup (40g) icing sugar, sifted.

• 800 g gingerbread cake (or other bought cake).

Creamy Macaroni and cheese Ingredients:

rooms and stir continuously until lightly cooked.

• 200 g gingerbread biscuits, crumbled.

with the mixture in the

• Divide double cream

• ½ onion chopped.

saucepan.

bottom of a 3 l (12-cup) trifle dish.

• Drizzle with one-third of the brandy, sprinkle over one-third of the cinnamon,

• Top with one-third of the dulce de leche mix, then

evenly between two bowls.

• Add the dulce de leche to

cream mixture.

• Repeat layering process twice, finishing with remaining biscuit crumbs.

sauce does not have any

sliced.

clumps.

• Add half of the grated

• 2 cups milk.

cheese and continue

• 200 g cheddar or gouda

whisking.

• 500 g macaroni cooked.

one-third of slices over the

whisk continuously until

• 1 punnet mushrooms

• Salt and pepper, to taste.

slices, and then layer

one third of the whipped

• ½ cup flour.

cheese grated.

• Cut cake into 2 cm thick

gingerbread crumbs.

Instructions:

• 2 cups cream.

whisk until thickened.

then one-quarter of the

until clumps are formed

• Gradually pour in milk and

sugar to second bowl and

• 1½ teaspoon cinnamon.

• Throw in your flour and stir

lic.

thickened.

• Add sour cream and icing

• 90 ml brandy.

• ½ cup butter.

• 1 tablespoon crushed gar-

one bowl and whisk until

•

Add salt and pepper to taste.

• Pour in the cream whilst whisking the sauce.

Instructions: • Preheat your oven at 180 °C.

• Remove from the stove once all clumps have disappeared.

• Melt the butter in a sauce-

• Mix the cooked macaroni

pan over a medium to high

and sauce in a casserole

heat.

dish and top with remain-

• Drop in onions and garlic and sauté until onions are golden brown.

• Add in the sliced mush-

ing cheese.

• Place in oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

55

TRAVEL

Words: Duane Stacey Additional Reporting: Robyn Peverely Photo: Robyn Perverly

Family Friendly

Festivities in Tulbagh this festive season

I

t’s Summer. It’s hot. You

you wonder if there could be a

A gorgeous pool is a haven

is kid-friendly, go and have a

are at the beach, with the

better way to spend the festive

on hot summer days while the

look at their Moonrise dome,

south-easterly wind blowing

season. Well, there is.

views from braai areas al-

which lavishes a tree house

low for lazy afternoons in this

inspired by the inner kid in all

breathtaking scenery.

of us.

sand in your face. Your sunburnt kid needs the bathroom but

Cape Town, but far from the

the queue for the public toilets

madding crowd, lies the ver-

snakes round the building.

dant, kid-friendly, pet-friendly,

farm allows groups to come

stone’s throw from town, which

laidback Tulbagh Valley. Our

together in communal spaces

allow for adults to relax while

cream, which is now melting

family spent a magical getaway

while still allowing individuals

kids play in beautiful gardens.

into the sand, so you traipse

at this place in August 2022.

to retreat to their private rooms

You’ve already bought one ice

back to get a second, while

56

Less than two hours from

Raptor Rise Guest Farm pro-

For bigger parties, the

There are many wineries a

Saronsberg is a treat for all,

or cottages. It’s a gem; but

with delicious wines at reason-

your other kid cries because

vided stylish, well-appointed

there are many accommoda-

able prices, beautiful sculptures

“why can’t I have another one,

accommodation with plenty

tion options around the area to

(both inside and in the garden)

too?”. It’s time to get home but

of room and garden space for

suit a variety of budgets. For

and a shady garden, making it

because there were so many

kids and the pooch to play

instance, the Geodomes at La

worth the short drive down the

crowds this morning, you had

in. There are friendly horses,

Bruyere Farm provide a novel

road. Just a bit further, Obiqua

to park nearly a kilometre down

well-behaved sheep and lovely

and luxurious way to enjoy the

restaurant at Duikersdrift has

the road. And as you trudge

walks with lots of porcupine

tranquility of the surroundings,

a delicious, Mexican-inspired

through the throngs of people,

quills for those on the lookout.

and if you are wondering if this

menu and a relaxed, warm

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

ambiance. The kids had a ball

makes trail running a great

in the playground while our

option. The Waterval Nature

pooch slept under our table –

Reserve is a great option for

another fabulous afternoon on

families as the hike to the wa-

all fronts.

terfall is relatively easy without

Montpellier Wine Estate is also an absolute must for

compromising on beauty and tranquility.

families. It has a beautiful, well

Murludi also offers beautiful

established garden with nooks

hiking trails as well as a picnic

and crannies that make you

area (they also have picnic

feel like Alice and you’ve just

baskets for sale on weekends)

gone down the rabbit hole.

with a children’s playground;

It is a paradise for kids to

but note that dogs aren’t al-

explore while your furry friends wander and play off the leash.

Photo supplied by Robyn Perverly

lowed at this venue.

Of course, the mountains

In keeping with the French

also provide a perfect play-

– a coffee, wine and craft

theme, waitrons are dressed in

ground for cycling enthusiasts.

collective that supports local

quintessential Parisian attire,

The area has well maintained

artisans and industry. Church

and a petanque court beck-

tracks and has been host to

Street (below Van der Stel)

ons.

three ABSA Cape Epics, two

is also worth a look, with old

SA National events (among

buildings that have been lov-

during the week and pizzas

many other smaller events),

ingly and tastefully restored.

in the garden over weekends,

and with over 70 km of tracks

The Information Bureau

and accommodation options

and trails, it’s definitely worth

(which doubles as the Earth-

are varied, but all are taste-

exploring.

quake Museum), at the end of

They serve cheese platters

fully put together with eclectic,

The Tulbagh Mountain Biking

Church Street, is full of inter-

vintage style. Don’t leave the

Club is a great point of con-

esting accounts of the people

Tulbagh Valley without at least

tact, with detailed and clear

and heritage of the town.

whiling away an afternoon at

information for visitors.

this treasure of a place.

Amongst all this decadence,

Take a stroll down Van der

Do yourself a favour this festive season; trade the sandy

Stel Street (the main street)

sandwiches, sunburn and

some might be in need of

to look at beautiful historical

swarms for something that

activity, and Tulbagh has much

buildings as well as quaint

will leave your heart (and your

to offer. There are many hiking

restaurants and shops; check

cup... and your belly... and your

trails in the area, which also

out Made in Tulbagh (M.I.T )

picture gallery) full to the brim.

Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Know before you go: • Tulbagh can get very hot in summer. Dress and pack accordingly and look for air conditioning, fans, shade and water when booking accommodation.

• This is one of the most petfriendly areas I’ve travelled to, but it’s always worth checking with venues, and making sure that pets are safe and enclosed if you need to leave them at your accommodation.

• Use different routes for the journey there and back; the drives are spectacular.

57

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Report corruption in government, municipalities and state owned entities to the SIU SIU Hotline: 0800 037 774 @RSASIU Public Sector Manager • December 2022/January 2023

Special Investigating Unit