PSM November 2022

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

NOVEMBER 2022

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Dlamini

dreams of a society free of toxic masculinity

Tackling GBVF Home Affairs

What customers expect

New council on the cards

NOVEMBER 2022

LIFESTYLE

Contents: November 2022

36

REGULARS

FEATURES

08

18

Conversations with leaders

Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane

Grooming and style

38

Food and wine

40

Travel

Farmers’ market ready

Light and breezy summer fair

The cosy Christmas markets of Edinburgh

Men still dominate the majority of senior and middle management roles

explains government’s plan to tackle

36

26

Know more about diabetes

28

Work underway to establish fund to

Take heed of the warning signs

support women entrepreneurs

in the public sector: report

violence against women, children and

Women’s economic empowerment key

More equality needed in the workplace

to SA’s growth

vulnerable people 10

Women in the public sector

20

Dr Judy Dlamini dreams of a society

From the Union Buildings

Together we can ensure state capture

Trailblazer

Shado Mashegoane on flying drones as

a career 14

Profiles in leadership

Agricultural Research Council President,

gess

SA making strides globally

Government is ensuring the equitable spending of finances 22

never happens again 12

Economic recovery plan makes pro-

revenue estimate

free of toxic masculinity 16

30

SARS commits to achieving higher

34

Government responds to citizens’ concerns

DHA focused on service delivery

Presidential imbizos lends an ear to

Changing the narrative about Home

South Africans

Affairs 24

40

National Biosecurity Hub combats crop and animal diseases

Building confidence in South Africa’s

biosecurity

Dr Litha Magingxa, talks food security and the green economy 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

10 2

Director-General Phumla Williams Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Nomonde Mnukwa

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

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

Acting Managing Editor Tendai Gonese | tendai@gcis.gov.za News Editor Miriam Mokoena | miriam@gcis.gov.za GCIS Photographic Unit

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

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

MINISTER MONDLI GUNGUBELE’S MESSAGE XXX

4

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

5

XXXMESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Persons with disabilities deserve dignity and equality

I

n South Africa’s 28 years

the ladder when it comes to

low labour market absorption

of democracy, the rights of

equality and human rights.

of PWD. A follow-up study by

persons with disabilities

From inaccessible buildings

Statistics South Africa in 2014

Phumla Williams, GCIS Director-General.

(PWD) have been significantly

and uneven sidewalks to

found that households headed

advanced.

stigmatisation and transport

by PWD had less access to

and communication chal-

basic services than households

lenges, PWD suffer a number of

headed by persons without

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and the Bill of Rights give equal protection to everyone and

PWD do not want to be

In May 2022, the National Strategic Framework on

disabilities.

Disability Rights Awareness-

In the past months, South

prevent discrimination based

treated differently. Rather, they

Africa has edged closer to

Raising Campaigns for Persons

on disability and other factors,

want society to put in place

meeting its CRPD obligations.

with Disabilities was approved

such as race, gender and age.

infrastructure and mechanisms

by Cabinet. It gives effect to the

The Employment Equity

that allow them to operate

Amendment Bill, 2020, has

White Paper on the Rights of

an Integrated National Disability

without limitations. They want

been finalised and should come

Persons with Disabilities.

Strategy was released in 1997,

to be seen and heard, not pitied

into effect in 2023. The Bill

the Employment Equity Act, 55

or overlooked.

amends the classification of

proved the Constitutional 18th

PWD in line with international

Amendment Bill for public com-

standards.

ment. Once approved, the Bill

Post-1994, the White Paper on

was passed in 1998 to protect

National Disability Rights

PWD from unfair discrimination

Awareness Month, which is

in the workplace, South Africa

celebrated annually between

Also in May, Cabinet ap-

will make sign language South

Two frameworks have been

ratified the United Nations Con-

3 November and 3 December

gazetted on universal access

Africa’s 12th official language.

vention on the Rights of People

(the International Day of Per-

and design, and reasonable

Sadly, the 2% target for the

with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2007

sons with Disabilities), chal-

accommodation. The National

representation of PWD in the

– which means the country is

lenges every South African to

Strategic Framework on Univer-

Public Sector has not been met.

bound to protect and promote

see past PWD’s disabilities and

sal Design and Access deals

Instead, it hovers at around only

the rights of PWD, the White

look fully at the person, not the

with making the built environ-

1%.

Paper on the Rights of Persons

condition. It allows the nation

ment and government services

with Disabilities was approved

to measure progress made in

more accessible to PWD. The

ety to commit to changing the

by Cabinet in 2015 and the

rooting disability inclusion in all

interlinked National Strategic

status quo for PWD, we must

Presidential Working Group on

spheres of society.

Framework on Reasonable

lead from the front. Let us work

Accommodation for PWD deals

to reach the 2% employment

disability prevalence rate was

with the modifications, adjust-

target and do whatever else we

however. The reality is that

7.5% of the population. In addi-

ments, assistive devices and

can to ensure PWD are treated

PWD are at the lower end of

tion, it showed that there was

technology needed to ensure

with fairness and dignity.

Disability was launched in 2016.

Much still needs to be done,

6

injustices.

the rights of PWD.

Census 2011 showed that the

If we want all sectors of soci-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

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.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

7

XXX

Writer: Kgaogelo Letsebe

CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

New council to spearhead the national GBVF response

Minster in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Maite NkoanaMashabane.

Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane explains government’s plan to tackle the violence that is being perpetuated against women, children and vulnerable people in South Africa.

M

inster in the Presidency for Women,

“The National Council on

council, the department plans

Summit against GBVF in

to create a society that is safe

November 2018.

The first of its kind, the sum-

GBVF, once established,

for all, with no discrimina-

with Disabilities, Maite Nkoana-

will be the custodian of the

tion, and full acceptance of

mit hosted more than 1 000

Mashabane, has published the

National Strategic Plan on

people in all their differences.

women of different nation-

gazetted National Council on

GBVF and will be responsible

The NCGBVF Bill is aimed at

alities, ages, races, sexual

Gender-Based Violence and

for driving its implementation.

building a socially cohesive

orientations, languages, social

Femicide (NCGBVF) Bill.

The council will coordinate

society, addressing patriarchal

origins, religions, beliefs and

our efforts and bring together

norms that perpetuate GBVF,

cultures. They were given a

ister Nkoana-Mashabane ex-

government and civil society

seeking justice and providing

chance to share their encoun-

plained that publishing the Bill

to combine resources in our

the healing and other support

ters with power-based crimes

is a step in the right direction

response to GBVF. However,

mechanisms that GBV survi-

and share ideas on how GBVF

as it will aid the department in

the council is not a magic

vors require.

can be curbed.

establishing a multi-sectoral,

bullet that will immediately

independent national council

end GBVF. It does not shift the

that will be responsible for

responsibility that every one

coordinating and implement-

of us has to ensure a safer so-

ing the National Strategic Plan

ciety for women and children,”

National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill

on Gender-Based Violence

she explained.

The Bill is a result of declara-

tions and amplification or

tions made at the Presidential

scaling up of best practices

Youth and Persons

In an explanatory note, Min-

and Femicide (GBVF) in the

8

country.

She added that through the

“The Presidential Summit on GBVF 2, held on 1 to 2 November, called for greater accountability, acceleration of programmes and interven-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

that are making an impact

ment of programmes that

in society. Activism is key to

empower women of all ages.

this as it takes the collective

The National Youth Develop-

efforts of government and civil

ment Agency also ensures

society to respond effectively

young women entrepreneurs

to GBVF,” said the Minister.

benefit from empowerment programmes.

The NCGBVF Bill comes at a

“At the same time, we have

time when the world is about to embark on the 16 Days of

sector value chain engage-

Activism against GBV cam-

ments, such as our Eastern

paign – 25 November to 10

Seaboard Engagement, which

December.

brought together women-

“Our theme for 16 Days this

owned businesses, the

year speaks to the importance

Department of Cooperative

of the legislature in our coun-

Governance and Traditional

try: Socio-economic Rights

Affairs and development part-

and Empowerment to build

“Strict reinforcement of gen-

tor. “Our patriarchal society

ners who will be investing bil-

Women’s Resilience against

der roles and hierarchy, eco-

deepens the inequalities that

lions in the Eastern Seaboard

GBVF: Connect, Collaborate,

nomic exclusion of women,

result in GBVF. The lack of

[KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern

Contract! ”

socio-economic inequality,

economic empowerment of

Cape] to develop ports, busi-

cultural and religious norms

women is another root cause

ness hubs and such.”

Root causes GBVF is an ongoing crisis in South Africa. According to the quarter one crime statistics (2022/2023), presented by Police Minister Bheki Cele in August 2022, violent crimes committed against women and children were recorded as alarmingly high.

The stats show that 855 women and 243 children were

for the scourge of such vio-

“To truly tackle the GBVF pandemic, we must be intentional about addressing the causes of violence, systematic or cultural.”

killed in South Africa between

In a statement, the DWYPD

lence, hence we need to hold

said that a commitment has

hands and work together to

been made to ensure the

overcome these challenges.

inclusion of women, youth and

All these factors become

persons with disabilities in the

drivers in sustaining a culture

development.

of violence, which ultimately

The Minister added that the

becomes the norm. To truly

department also drives the

tackle the GBVF pandemic,

Women's Economic Assem-

we must be intentional about

bly, which aims to facilitate

addressing the causes of vio-

the participation of women-

lence, systematic or cultural.”

owned businesses in core areas of the economy.

April and June 2022. Over

that reinforce patriarchal at-

11 000 grievous bodily harm

titudes, and associating mas-

Women empowerment

cases, with female victims,

culinity with control of women

According to the Minister, the

from all citizens. GBVF is not a

were opened with the police;

– all these factors become

Department of Women, Youth

pandemic or an issue impact-

1 670 of these cases involved

drivers in sustaining a culture

and Persons with Disabili-

ing some women in unknown

children.

of violence, which ultimately

ties (DWYPD) has adopted

areas. It impacts all of us and

becomes the norm.”

a programmatic approach

it will take everyone working

to responding to women’s

together to effectively respond to GBVF,” she said.

Minister Nkoana-Mashabane noted that several root causes

She added that a lack of

play a role in the pervasive-

socio-economic development

economic empowerment

ness of GBVF in society.

was also a contributing fac-

by ensuring the develop-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

“We also need greater accountability and responsibility

9

Writer: Owen Mngadi

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

Multi-skilled Dlamini dreams of a society free of toxic masculinity Dlamini believes that she was chosen to lead based on her long

and the private sector to grow

track record in leadership and

an inclusive economy through

her passion for eradicating toxic

supporting SMEs.

masculinity and patrilocal norms.

but Different, which is based

featuring the 16 Days of Activism

on her doctoral thesis, Dlamini

against GBV campaign (25

explores the intersection of race,

November to 10 December),

gender and social class in the

Dlamini says that until the

career progression of women.

scourge is eradicated, it will be a

The book features stories from

365-day campaign.

women across the globe who share their stories of how gender

someone who is willing and able.

I have led before; I also have a

equality helped them to progress.

clear understanding of what it

Fund improves lives

is to live in a country where you

This understanding of how

do not feel safe. So I would like

inequality affects women stands

to believe that motivated my

her in good stead as chairperson

appointment,” she says.

of the GBVF Response Fund.

r Judy Dlamini is bring-

the implementation of the

ing her vast experience

national strategic plan to

sectors of the economy, most

will make a meaningful impact

in leadership, integrity,

end GBVF. Various private

notably as the founder and

across social classes where

accountability and tenacity to

companies pledged donations

executive chairperson of the

GBVF is prevalent.

the fight against gender-based

that amounted to over R128

Mbekani Group, which has been

violence and femicide (GBVF).

million to the fund and its

in business for more than 25

she refers to the six pillars that

establishment was supported by

years. She strongly advocates for

are part of the National Strategic

academic doctor who wears

the International Women’s Forum

gender equity.

Plan on GBVF. Those include

many hats as a businesswoman,

of South Africa.

Dlamini (63), a medical and

author and Chancellor of the

At the helm of the fund,

Dlamini has served in different

Dlamini is optimistic that the fund

To achieve a positive outcome,

accountability, coordination

As a result, she founded the Female Academic Leaders

and leadership, prevention and

University of Witwatersrand, is

Dlamini is entrusted to ensure

Fellowship to develop a pipeline

rebuilding social cohesion,

the chairperson of the Gender-

accountability of the funds

of black female leaders in

justice, safety and protection.

Based Violence Response Fund

and to deliver on its mandates.

academia. She is also a director

She says her responsibility is

(GBVF).

She works with five board

of the South African Small and

to ensure the representation of

members from various sectors

Medium-sized Enterprises

all key role players in the fight

President Cyril Ramaphosa

who volunteer their skills and

(SME) Fund, a partnership

against GBVF, which she refers

in February 2021, to support

expertise.

between the government,

to as another pandemic.

The fund was launched by

10

In her 2019 book, titled Equal

With November and December

“In life, you will always find

D

development finance institutions

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

She believes that given the

all statistics provided by the

calibre of her team members,

South African Police Service

she will be able to safeguard the

(SAPS), because she is keen to

with Ministers on issues such

fund and continue to deliver its

understand the reality on the

as the backlog in DNA analysis,

mandate. In praising her team,

ground. “We have to be sure of

which hampers investigations

she says: “In leadership, you

the statistics. Academics assist

and court cases. Her proposal

must have the right people in place to execute the plan.”

Dlamini is pleased with the fund’s progress, but notes that the ‘scourge is deep and has been entrenched for decades’.

“We need to galvanise support from all sectors,” she says.

The fund has already disbursed R36 million, supporting 108 community-based organisations that focus on GBV across the country. Dlamini explains that organisations were called to

sector.

She says the fund has engaged

is for the SAPS to work with

“We have to be sure of the statistics.

Academics assist us with that because they are on the ground. We need to understand the terrain and get as close to the incidents as possible.”

submit their proposals and

universities that have experts in DNA analysis to resolve some of the cases.

She challenges the private

accountability.

“I understand the lack of trust

sector and philanthropists to

in public organisations; as a

increase their efforts in the fight

board, we are fully aware of that.

against GBVF, as they did with

I am accountable for everything

COVID-19.

I do and the people I lead. Also,

The majority of stock exchange-

I believe in integrity, I always

listed companies put little effort

tell young leaders to make it a

into ending GBVF, says Dlamini.

norm to do well, even when they

She points out that insufficient

are under no supervision. I try

funds have been raised and

to be inclusive and give other

pleads with companies to

people an opportunity to raise

preference was given to those

us with that because they are

continue to donate. While several

their points, even when the final

that address the range of

on the ground. We need to

companies have made pledges,

decision lies with me. I take

challenges faced by victims and

understand the terrain and get as

the fund is unable to budget for

advice from the majority, even

survivors. She says they were

close to the incidents as possible.

its programmes until the money

if our views differ, and take full

is deposited into its account.

accountability for it,” she says.

impressed by the outcomes

“There are closed places where

achieved by some of the

incidents are not reported, but

“Some companies are pledging

organisations.

they are happening. Working

with cash in kind, while some are

and respect, which she

Dlamini believes in kindness

Dlamini says they have

with academics has helped us to

not immediate donations. It is

emphasises must be restored in

appointed Tshikululu Social

unpack that. We have also hosted

difficult to budget based on that,”

society. She says if people are

Investment, an experienced fund

izimbizo with non-governmental

she says.

kind and respectful to each other,

management company, to ensure

organisations to get a better

the fund makes a real difference

understanding of the situation,”

bad reputation of fraud and

to South Africans affected by

she says.

corruption associated with public

GBVF Response Fund, she

organisations meant to help

hopes to see justice being

vulnerable people. She draws

served for women; children; sex

GBVF. Intermediaries have also

Dlamini acknowledges the

GBVF would be non-existent.

As the chairperson of the

informal organisations that could

More support needed

on her integrity and governance

workers and the lesbian, gay,

not handle large finances, but

While Dlamini is upbeat about

skills to assure the country that

bisexual, transgender, queer or

had the will to assist victims.

the fund’s impact, she cites

all the monies will be accounted

questioning society. Her wish is

several challenges and calls

for. She says they have set up

for patriarchal norms and toxic

academics who assist with

for cooperation between

a risk and audit committee

masculinity not to have a place in

scientific facts and analyse

government and the private

and there is a long chain of

South Africa.

been employed to support four

She says the fund works with

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

11

Writer: Miriam Mokoena Information supplied by the Air Traffic and Navigation Services

TRAILBLAZER

Up and away: Drones set to shape the future

W

hen Shado

first step towards building

excellent opportunity to

employment and/or pursue

Mashegoane

background-level proficiency

become part of this amazing

further education and train-

(28), a simula-

in remotely piloted aircraft

industry as government is

ing. Drone education tech-

tor support officer at the

systems (RPAS) operations,

collaborating with business

nology can empower young

Air Traffic and Navigation

a journey she describes as

entities to fund RPLs for

people and create pathways

Services (ATNS) Aviation

‘exciting and uncertain’.

youth,” she says.

towards solving some of the

Training Academy, attended

socio-economic challenges

the ATNS AVI Afrique Innova-

to network with profes-

tion Summit in 2019, little did

sionals who were already

Drone technology education

she realise that a whole new

in the industry. From there,

Mashegoane feels that teach-

tion is such a transformative

career interest awaited her.

I was determined to gain

ing drone technology, coding

resource. It can help improve

the appropriate knowledge

and design processes in

accessibility to career op-

her to drone technology and

and experience to become a

schools will encourage young

portunities in the aerospace

inspired her to become an

drone aviation professional,”

people to be innovative and

industry and beyond,” she

enthusiastic drone aviation

says Mashegoane.

acquire entrepreneurial skills.

believes.

The summit introduced

professional. Her inter-

During her training, she

“Although Africa has a

of our generation. The future has arrived, and drone avia-

While she practises drone

est in the subject resulted

acquired a good understand-

young population, we are

piloting in her spare time,

in her pursuing a remote

ing of the drone sector.

faced with the sad reality of

Mashegoane says obtain-

youth who are unable to find

ing the licence has been an

pilot licence (RPL) – the

12

“The first thing I did was

“Young people have an

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

excellent career investment

such as agriculture, security,

for her as a simulator support

search and rescue, construc-

officer.

tion, mining, marketing and

“Simulator training offers limited exposure to aviation safety and the human-factor

sales, journalism and filmmaking.

“I am focused on obtaining

aspects of flying aircraft.

an RPAS Instructor Rating. I

Through flying drones, I have

also wish to improve youth

learnt to operate remotely

access to drone-service

piloted aircraft in a manner

training. There are currently

that does not pose a danger

three categories of drone-

to other aircraft. I have also

related jobs: licensed drone

noticed how important it is

pilot, drone engineer and

for an aircraft to be operated

industry business,” says

safely within all limitations.

Mashegoane.

“Secondly, as a drone pilot,

She explains that drone

sible, a few of us take on the

She urges government to

role of the ‘pilot’ on the other

ensure that education equips

one must engage with tech-

pilots work in both traditional

end of the controllers’ head-

the youth for the increasingly

nical information to safely

and emerging industries and

sets. In the simulator, as a

changing world of employ-

operate, maintain and repair

believes that drones can con-

pilot would, we converse with

ment.

drones for flight. For this

tribute to economic develop-

ATC trainees, request clear-

“Our education system

reason, each flight is crucial.

ment as they can be used

ances from air traffic control

needs to be resourced and

I have gained enhanced

for monitoring, inspection or

and translate their directions

skilled to align the youth with

technical knowledge about

data collection, photography,

into orders that we input into

rapidly emerging employ-

flight planning and process-

recreation and logistics.

the simulator, which in turn

ment trends by continuously

converts instructions from

reviewing and adapting our

officer, Mashegoane’s job

ATC trainees into commands

curricula. There should be

ing,” she says.

Career insights

As a simulator support involves giving air traffic

that effect the movement

greater investment and

Mashegoane, whose wish is

controllers (ATC) training and

of aircraft as seen on the

increased channels for ac-

to become a drone instructor,

development opportunities.

simulator screen,” explains

cess to support for young

explains that drone pilots can

“To provide the most real-

Mashegoane.

people’s transition from

work in various industries,

istic training experience pos-

Career plans Mashegoane, who grew up in

education to employment or self-employment,” concludes Mashegoane.

Sebokeng, Gauteng, says she

The young pilot holds vari-

wants to ultimately become a

ous qualifications, including

RPAS instructional designer.

a Bachelor of Science degree

“As the industry continues

from the University of the

to gain more momentum, the

Witwatersrand, a Bachelor

ability to provide expertise in

of Commerce (Honours) in

such a niche industry will be

Industrial and Organisational

essential towards maintain-

Psychology from UNISA, and

ing sustainable curricula in

a multi-rotor remote pilot

our institutions of learning,”

licence.

she adds.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

13

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Writer: More Matshediso

Research, development

and innovation key to food security (Agricultural Economics) from

are more risk resistant.

the University of the Free State.

“This [research] has posi-

I

nvestment in research, development and innovation is essential for South Africa’s

As the country’s premier agricultural research organisa-

Magingxa was a Doctoral

to the management of some

Research Fellow at the Inter-

significant pests and diseases,

national Water Management

such as fall armyworm, and

Institute and boasts a wealth

we continue to develop more

of experience in leadership

technologies based on new

from both the private and

scientific discoveries.”

public sectors. Between 2009 and 2014, he served as Senior

tion, the ARC’s role touches

Strong roots

on some of the critical areas

Magingxa was appointed as

ning at the Land Bank. He also

President and Chief Executive

of the Economic Reconstruc-

president and CEO in April

worked as a Group Executive

Officer (CEO) of the Agricul-

tion and Recovery Plan, such

2022, for a five-year term, and

for Agri-Economics and Capac-

tural Research Council (ARC),

as strengthening agriculture

is well suited to the position.

ity Development at the ARC

Dr Litha Magingxa, targeted

and food security and green

He holds a Bachelor of Sci-

investments help enable the

industrialisation.

economic recovery.

According to the new

execution of policies formu-

Magingxa says that green

Manager for Strategy and Plan-

between 2014 and 2018, and as

ence degree in Agricultural

Executive Manager for Agri-

Economics from the University

Economics and Advisory at the

lated to address the social

industrialisation guarantees the

of Fort Hare; a Master of Sci-

Land and Agricultural Develop-

distress brought about by

security of energy, food, water

ence from the former Wagen-

ment Bank between 2018 and

the COVID-19 pandemic and

and electricity supply.

ingen Agricultural University

March this year, before ascend-

in the Netherlands and a PhD

ing to his current position.

lockdowns.

“The ARC makes a significant

“The ARC works closely with industry partners to develop

contribution through initia-

technologies that improve

tives aimed at improved food

yields and contribute to plant

and nutrition security in the

and animal health protection,”

country, including the recently

he says.

signed Agriculture and Agro-

14

he says.

tioned us well to contribute

He adds that the national

processing Master Plan, which

collections, such as insects,

will unlock growth and create

nematodes and fungi, in the

efficiencies in the sector to

ARC’s custody are used for re-

support economic recovery,”

search into creating crops that

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Onwards and upwards

tions from the report and inte-

“My responsibility is to pro-

grating some of them into our

vide oversight and formulate

processes. In the short term,

an overall strategy and policy

we are focusing on launch-

for a high-performing, profes-

ing several process efficiency

sional and transformational

initiatives. We are also intro-

organisation to drive its mission

ducing improvements in our

and achieve the organisational

research environment that will

objectives within the respective

position us well in the medium

prioritising the recommenda-

“We have recently approved

of the ARC’s focus areas. The

to long term, to support the

a commercialisation strategy,

organisation’s flagship profes-

sector and to harness some

which allows us more agility in

sional development programme

tion, revisioning and reposition-

emerging global opportunities,”

working with market partners.

has about 200 students

ing of the ARC, working with

he explains.

Implementation modalities are

enrolled for advanced scientific

fields of expertise,” he says.

“I am tasked with the redirec-

the council and management

being finalised. We will also be

training through master’s and

year, the ARC focused on a

setting up a framework for the

PhD programmes. In addition,

hard turnaround in a few areas,

implementation of the initia-

the Bioinformatics and Statisti-

ARC has just been presented

including the improvement of

tives identified in the institu-

cal Genomics Training Pro-

with its latest institutional

its audit outcomes. “We are

tional review [report],” he says.

gramme targets students and

review report. The process is

making significant investments

conducted every five years to

in technology, as well as pro-

lenges that Magingxa seeks

assess the effectiveness of the

cess and governance improve-

to address is revenue pres-

the organisation collaborates

organisation,” he adds.

ments that will assist us in this

sure. He says the organisation

with provincial departments of

endeavour.”

is looking at how to dedicate

agriculture to extend access

capacity and focus to the area

to farmer training initiatives to target designated groups.

team.

“I am very fortunate as the

The report makes recom-

During the 2022/23 financial

One of the long-term chal-

young scientists.

Furthermore, Magingxa says

mendations about the quality

He says the ARC is looking

of science, process efficiency

at how to improve efficiencies

of resource mobilisation. He

and governance issues, among

in general and reposition itself

envisages that the commercial-

others. It informs the path for

to participate in addressing

isation strategy will assist the

inclusiveness of our pro-

the organisation for the next

identified global challenges,

ARC to realise better value from

grammes to ensure access

five years and beyond, while

such as climate change, while

its intellectual property and its

by designated groups. This

also identifying other areas for

also focusing on an improved

vast physical infrastructure.

approach also informs how we

improvement.

turnaround in technology trans-

“We have started a process of

fer methodologies.

Regardless of the challenges,

create development oppor-

Magingxa is proud of the ARC

tunities for staff from diverse

team, which he says comprises

groups,” he says.

experts in their respective

Magingxa has spent time in

fields. This positions it well in

the past months visiting various

becoming a valuable partner in

ARC campuses to directly inter-

knowledge generation partner-

act with employees, and he

ships.

believes that even in the face

Growing SA’s skills Magingxa says the empower-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

“We constantly monitor the

of challenges, the potential to make significant leaps remains.

“I believe that we need to do

ment of youth, women and

everything in our power to un-

persons with disabilities is one

leash this potential,” he says.

15

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS

Together we can ensure state capture never happens again O ver the coming

cant duty on Saturday, 22

sela released her ‘State of

by the then Deputy Chief

days and weeks,

October 2022, to submit to

Capture’ report, in which she

Justice Raymond Zondo.

from hashtags to

Parliament government’s

investigated complaints of

homes to the halls of Parlia-

response to the findings and

alleged unethical conduct by

hearings, our nation was

ment, South Africans from all

recommendations of the

several state functionaries,

saddened, outraged and left

walks of life will be debating

Commission of Inquiry into

and private individuals and

in disbelief by testimony of

government’s response to the

State Capture.

companies.

how a criminal network in

findings and recommenda-

The Public Protector’s re-

government, public institu-

tions of the State Capture

nearly six years to the

port gave rise to the estab-

tions and private companies

Commission.

month after former Public

lishment of the judicial com-

had raided state coffers and

Protector Adv Thuli Madon-

mission of inquiry chaired

vandalised institutions of our

I considered it a signifi-

16

I made this submission

During four years of public

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council will play an important part in mobilising all sectors of our society towards the attainment of a country defined by integrity, honesty and accountability.

Following the submission of our response to the State Capture Commission, government is poised to work with social partners and communities on this great undertaking, which will be passed on from generation to generation into our future.

This moment of renewal is upon us and urges us to restate the vision of our democracy.

The country has drawn

ing in our courts today are

National Development Plan

strength from the courage

because investigators and

of “a South Africa that has

testimony, people’s anger at

with which whistle-blowers

prosecutors are living up their

zero tolerance for corrup-

the events that had unfolded

came forward to tell their

professional obligations and

tion, in which an empowered

and citizens’ demands for

stories and bring perpetrators

the expectations of the nation

citizenry has the confidence

consequences, retribution

of state capture to justice.

they serve.

and knowledge to hold public

Amid the depressing

and restoration was a clear

This process also revealed

In compliance with an order

signal that South Africans are

that in spite of sustained as-

of the judiciary, the executive

count and in which leaders

prepared to fight to preserve

saults by the architects and

branch of the State has now

hold themselves to high ethi-

their values.

practitioners of state capture

submitted a response plan

cal standards, and act with

on key national institutions,

to the legislature, as further

integrity”.

the process of uncovering

we could depend on our crim-

evidence of the good and

crimes against our democracy

inal justice system to catch

growing health of our demo-

progress in the fight against

gave us more reason for hope

up with those who thought

cratic dispensation.

state capture, all due to the

than despair.

themselves untouchable.

Upon closer consideration,

The reactions of the over-

Almost daily now, we read

While we prosecute state

and private officials to ac-

We have made great

efforts of the people of South

capture suspects and recover

Africa. The path ahead will be

whelming majority of South

reports of people being

stolen funds, what is required

challenging, but if we work

Africans highlighted the na-

arrested and appearing in

on the part of all South

together in implementing

tion’s disdain for corruption

court on charges related to

Africans is our conscious,

the recommendations of the

and our determination that

state capture. We read about

daily examination of our own

State Capture Commission,

corruption and unethical cor-

misappropriated assets being

values, beliefs and behaviours

we will succeed in building

porate or public management

frozen and property being

and the motives and actions

the society and the State that

will not be allowed to define

seized.

of others.

we want.

us as a nation.

The scenes that are unfold-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

The recently established

17

FEATURE

Source: Statistics South Africa

Men still dorminate the majority senior and middle management roles in the public sector: report

S

tatistic South Africa’s recent report on women empowerment

indicates a steady increase in women's share in the workingage population over the last five years.

According to the Gender Series Volume IX: Women Empowerment, 2017 – 2022 [released in October 2022], despite more females in the labour force, males have higher employment rates than females. The gender gap of 0.778 in monthly median earnings between male and female indicate inequality.

Parity in earnings was only reached with tertiary education.

Furthermore, women continued to be more likely than men to be unemployed.

According to the report, in the public sector, males hold the majority of senior management posts and middle management positions. Females who were younger (<=35 years old) than their male counterparts were more likely to have middle management positions.

Cabinet reached parity in

18

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Trend analysis of female share in senior and middle management positions in the public sector by sex, 2018 to 2021

majority of females indicated grants (62.7% and 61.3% respectively) as their main sources of income, followed by remittances (60.7% and 53.8% respectively), while males indicated income from a business (71.6% and 75.8% respectively), followed by salaries/wages/commission (66.4% and 66.0% respectively) as their main sources of income.

The number of social grants recipients increased by 4.8 percentage points for both

2019 for the first time since the

differences in the formal sector

females between the ages of

males and females between

beginning of democracy, and

decreased from a parity of 0.67

25 and 34 years accounted for

2017 and 2021. However,

Parliament also observed an

in 2017 to 0.76 in 2022, pointing

the most unemployed when

males recorded the highest

increased representation of

toward a narrowing gap in

compared to other age groups.

increase of grant recipients of

women.

the sector. The report further

The presence of minor

5.6 percentage points while

shows that over the period,

children indirectly contributes

females recorded an increase

there have been a growing

to unemployment, particularly

of 4.2 percentage points. For

In 2022, three out of four

proportion of own-account

among women. When exploring

both periods, individuals living

females (76.7% in 2017 and

workers among male and

this effect, unemployment rates

in the Eastern Cape (41.8%

77.5% in 2022) were operating

female business owners.

in 2017 and 2022 were highest

and 47.8% in 2017 and 2021

Females were more likely to

among males and females

respectively) were the ones

sector, and no major increases

be own-account workers than

who lived with five or more

most likely to receive grants,

were observed during this

males.. While the proportion

children in the household at

followed by Limpopo (40.1%

period. The presence of

of male own-account workers

43.6% and 55.5% respectively.

and 46.4% in 2017 and 2021

males in the informal sector

increased between 2017 and

The report also indicates that

respectively).

experienced a 5.3 percentage

2022 by 7.6 percentage points,

the economic inactivity rate

point increase over this period.

that of females remained

was higher among females

The difference between male-

relatively the same.

than males in all categories.

Informal sector

businesses in the informal

and female-run businesses

This was true for both years of

operating in the formal sector

Unemployment

was 10.9 percentage points in

Overall unemployment rates

2017; a decline was observed

increased by 6.8 percentage

statssa.gov.za/?page_

for both sexes in 2022.

points, from 27.7% in 2017 to

id=1854&PPN=Report-

Additionally, gender

34.5% in 2022. Males and

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

reporting.

Between 2017 and 2018, the

For the full report, visit https://www.

03-10-26&SCH=73312

19

Source: SAnews

FEATURE XXX

SARS commits to achieving higher revenue estimate

T

he South African Rev-

quired to attend to important

enue Service (SARS)

social and investment spend-

has welcomed Finance

Minister Enoch Godongwana emphasis on ensuring that gov-

billion.

“The rebuilding of SARS is

SARS said stronger per-

ing priorities, whilst keeping

evident in improved revenue

sonal income tax collections

an eye on debt service costs.

collection. We are laying a

are expected to bring in an

firm foundation for this new

additional R8.2 billion relative

environment, which is the

to the 2022 Budget Review

synthesis of data-driven

projections.

an equitable, efficient and flex-

Revised revenue estimate

ible manner to support South

The Minister increased the

insights, enabling information

South Africa’s gross do-

Africa’s development objectives.

revenue collection estimate

and technology infrastructure

mestic product is expected

that SARS must collect to

and employing skilled staff,

to grow by 1.9% in 2022 from

ter tabled the Medium Term

R1 682 billion from R1 598

which are all indispensable

4.9% in 2021. Revenue col-

Budget Policy Statement on

billion. SARS provides about

for the success of this mod-

lections, as at 30 September

26 October 2022, in Cape

90% of all government

ernisation journey. We are

2022, amounted to R784.8

Town. The Minister’s policy

revenue, which makes this

equally committed to counter

billion, yielding growth of

message focused on strength-

increase in the revenue to

criminal and illicit activities,”

R64.7 billion (9.0%) against

ening South Africa’s fiscal

be collected by SARS very

SARS Commissioner Edward

prior year collections of R751.0

integrity over the medium

significant.

Kieswetter said.

billion.

ernment finances are spent in

This comes after the Minis-

term through managing the

“As SARS, we accept the

country’s finances with pru-

challenge of the revised high-

expected to exceed the

previous year showed an up-

dence.

er revenue estimate. While

estimates presented at the

ward trend except for the fuel

the revised revenue estimate

time of the 2022 Budget by

levy, which recorded a con-

work is central in that efficient

is steep, we are committed

R83.5 billion in 2022/23, of

traction of R9.1 billion (-20.9%).

tax revenue collections con-

to act according to what is

which corporate income tax is

The year-to-date growth was

tribute to the fiscal space re-

permissible by law to meet

expected to account for R62.8

partially offset by the total

In a statement, SARS said its

20

this challenge.

Gross tax revenues are

“All collections against the

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

refunds paid out, which were

valuation fraud and customs

R32.5 billion (20.9%) higher

seizures.”

than the previous year, with

To illustrate the point, the

R150 million.

• The estimated value of

SARS encouraged taxpayers to use the Voluntary Disclo-

assets under preservation

sure Programme to regularise

orders is about R2.9 billion.

their tax affairs. However,

value-added tax refunds R26.2

Commissioner said that

billion (21.0%) higher in the

SARS's administrative efforts

first half of the year.

undertaken in the current

tration of assets to the

disclose any irregularities to

• The liquidation and seques-

taxpayers must voluntarily

financial year to drive compli-

value of about R2.3 billion

SARS, as the programme will

presentation in February

ance revenue include:

has been carried out.

not be available once SARS

2022, tax revenues were ex-

• 831 797 debt cases and

“During the Budget Speech

• SARS also conducted 478

pected to grow by 3.3%

186 691 final demands be-

Illicit trade interventions,

(R1.547 billion to R1.598 bil-

ing issued and successfully

resulting in 403 detentions

lion). SARS is continuing

pursued, resulting in R35.2

and 252 seizures.

to improve the efficiency in

billion being collected.

tax revenue administration through targeted strategic

“SARS initiatives have counterbalanced the negative impact of the local and global economy.”

compliance and enforcement interventions to achieve higher taxpayer compliance ratios.”

Kieswetter said while the performance of the economy is important for revenue collection, "SARS initiatives have counterbalanced the negative impact of the local and global economy".

• SARS prevented R28 bil-

Improving services

discovers on its own such non-compliance.

In this regard, the revenue authority will be communicating more details on how to access this programme.

Kieswetter said SARS will

SARS is on course to further

continue to improve its

improve its revenue perfor-

service to taxpayers and

mance in alignment with its

traders by providing clarity

vision 2020 – 2025 and the

and certainty to enable them

Strategic Intent of Voluntary

to meet their legal obliga-

Compliance.

tions, and by making it hard

“In view of the above op-

and costly for taxpayers and

portunities, and the increased

traders who wilfully remain

trust that taxpayers and trad-

non-compliant.

ers have in SARS, we believe

Customs valuation fraud,

that our work and increased

excise under-declaration, syn-

focus on our mandate objec-

“SARS compliance efforts

lion of impermissible and

dicated tax crimes, including

tives will ensure the attain-

have contributed 12% to the

fraudulent refund claims

illicit activities and interven-

ment of the revenue projec-

net revenues collected. This is

from being processed.

tions linked to cases relating

tions as communicated by

in line with our revenue man-

• The setting up specialised

to state capture will remain

the Minister,” said Kieswetter.

major areas of focus.

– SAnews.gov.za

agement philosophy, which

teams that assessed the

has seen our efforts result in

accuracy of provisional tax

an additional R92.5 billion that

payments, resulting in R8.4

has been added to the total

billion being collected.

revenue of R784 billion col-

• Over 2 675 customs inter-

lected to date.

ventions resulting in R1.2

“Included in the compliance

billion being collected.

efforts are areas that relate to

• SARS's work in the areas of

debt cash collections, curbing

syndicated tax and cus-

impermissible and fraudulent

toms crimes is gaining trac-

refunds claims, voluntary

tion, resulting in R1.9 billion

disclosure management,

being collected.

countering syndicated tax and

• One preservation order was

customs crimes as well as

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

obtained for the value of

21

Writer: Allison Cooper Additional writing: Miriam Mokoena

FEATURE

DHA focused on

within their community and they have to use public trans-

improving service delivery

port to get there. This was followed by private car (23%) and walking (12%). The use of public transport was prevalent for civic services, while private car usage was common for immigration services.

Sixty-four percent of the participants associated the DHA with applications for critical identification documents, such as identity documents (IDs), passports, and birth and death certificates. The most positive perception about the DHA was that despite delays, the department would ultimately deliver the documents applied for if needs are met. The department was also strongly associated with facilitating travel in and out of the country.

A

Most customers agreed that recent survey on services offered by the Department of Home

Affairs (DHA) has revealed that its service centres are generally accessible to most citizens.

22

foreign nationals.

A similar survey was conduct-

the DHA has also made good

The data was obtained via in-depth interviews, focus

strides in speeding up the

ed in 2018 but it excluded some

group discussions, social media

process of document collection,

immigration services.

monitoring, case studies, online

especially for smart IDs and

chat groups, real-time inter-

passports.

The objectives of the survey dictated a hybrid research

views and mystery shopping

The study, which was com-

approach encompassing pri-

(incognito visit as a ‘customer’

Slow service

missioned by the Government

mary and secondary research

to judge service delivery).

The negative narrative about

Communication and Informa-

techniques. The survey had

Similar to the 2018 findings,

tion System Research unit on

a national scope, targeting

about 81% of the participants

tended to be amplified by the

behalf of the DHA, was aimed

individual citizens who have

said that they used DHA offices

time it took for customers to

at gauging the extent to which

been exposed to DHA services

which are closer to where they

access services. Most respond-

the department delivers on its

within the past year. Eligible

live or work.

ents bemoaned slow service.

objective of providing secure,

respondents were drawn using

efficient, effective and acces-

statistically random techniques

ents said the closest DHA

ened by queues that are not

sible services to all citizens and

from all provinces.

office to them is not located

well managed, frequent system

About 58% of the respond-

the DHA’s service delivery

This perception was wors-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

breakdowns, lack of proactive

Perceptions of what excellent customer service entails – live capture

communication about delays, and alleged corrupt practices by some officials.

Other problems mentioned included a lack of effective support infrastructure, including toilets and chairs, as well as a lack of proper internal and external signage.

Excellent customer service cues It was not all gloom, however, as customers identified some excellent customer service cues. One out of three participants expected improvements

like banks are signs of excellent

in turnaround times, non-dis-

service.

crimination, safe office facili-

Participants were also asked

tory query resolution (34%).

The overall Customer Sat-

Areas of potential improvement include staff skills

isfaction Score (CSS) for the

development, entrenching a

ties and caring staff as part of

what they perceived as excel-

DHA was 83%, with immigra-

‘customer is king’ culture, sys-

excellent customer service.

lent customer cues. The top

tion services (84%) scoring

tem reliability, effective online

three most mentioned cues

slightly higher than civic servic-

platforms, queue management

social media platforms also

were speed of service at 70%,

es (82%). Analysis of the CSS

automation, promotion of

revealed that system reliability,

followed by fair customer treat-

showed that harbour services

DHA initiatives and proactive

informing customers of what

ment (44%) and staff pleasant-

had the highest ratings (92%),

customer engagement across

is happening when the system

ness (43%). Other mentioned

closely followed by airport

platforms.

goes offline, user-friendly

cues include staff competence/

services (91%). The lowest CSS

online platforms and the use

helpfulness (38%), queue man-

was for refugee centres (73%).

of alternative channel partners

agement (36%) and satisfac-

The narrative from the DHA’s

Recommendations

Other recommendations included improving road signage to DHA offices so that the public can find them easily,

Ongoing customer service

properly supporting and com-

delivery efforts are needed to

municating the use of banking

ensure that the DHA maintains

and online platforms to decon-

its product delivery reputation

gest service offices, adopting

and pricing structure, which

the same system that banks

was endorsed by 94% of the

use to minimise continuous

respondents as affordable.

system breakdowns and gener-

Product packaging processes

ating more awareness around

also need to be sustained

the documents that customers

as there were no concerns

need to take with them to DHA

expressed regarding the quality

offices to prevent a situation of

of documents provided by the

having to go back again.

DHA.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

23

Writer: Kgaogelo Letsebe

FEATURE

National Biosecurity Hub combats crop and animal diseases New biosecurity hub is expected to empower South Africa’s decisionmaking during times of animal and plant disease outbreaks. commitment of R5 million from the DALRRD for biosecurity for three years.

Background Mjwara explained that in November 2020, both the DSI and the DALRRD agreed on an approach for the alignment of the Agriculture and Agroprocessing Masterplan and the Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Decadal Plan (2021 – 2030). “The mechanism of the alignment was a two-tier governance process for monitoring the bilateral relations between the two departments through a

T

steering committee chaired by he departments of Sci-

eases, such as foot and mouth,

that the hub is the result of the

the DGs. Subsequently, a tech-

ence and Innovation

and contribute to sustainable

DSI’s Agricultural Bioeconomy

nical task team was established

(DSI) and Agriculture,

agricultural production and the

Innovation Partnership Pro-

and given formal terms of refer-

Land Reform and Rural Develop-

safe trade of agricultural prod-

gramme (ABIPP).

ence. The team assisted both

ment (DALRRD) have col-

ucts, services and processes in

laborated to launch the National

South Africa.

departments with consultation

dinates and funds multi-stake-

on the masterplan process, as

holder agriculture bioeconomy

well as input and alignment

launch, DSI Director-General

initiatives and is administered

with the agricultural priorities of

Pretoria’s (UP) Future Africa

(DG) Phil Mjwara, who spoke

by the department’s Technol-

the STI Decadal Plan.”

campus, the hub has been

on behalf of Higher Education,

ogy Innovation Agency (TIA).

developed to act as an early

Science and Innovation Minis-

At present, the programme

meeting held on 27 July 2022,

warning system for animal dis-

ter Blade Nzimande, explained

has a R4 million budget and a

the DSI and DALRRD DGs

Biosecurity Hub.

Housed at the University of

24

The ABIPP facilitates, coor-

Speaking at the official

He noted that at a bilateral

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

diseases to prevent their po-

Biotechnology at the DSI, some

tentially destructive impact on

projects are already underway

sustainable production or risks

at the hub. “The Centre for

to the territories of trading par-

Food Safety is an applied food

ties. In recent times, however,

science consortium, compris-

disputes around the scientific

ing Stellenbosch University and

justification of SPS measures

the food industry. The centre

have become a key feature of

conducts research on safety

international trade and South

throughout the food value

Africa has not escaped this

chain. An example is Listeria

disturbing trend, despite the

(specifically the ST6 organism),

existence of an international

which caused a huge outbreak

agreed to co-launch and co-

job creation along the value

framework that ensures fair and

of listeriosis in South Africa [in

chair the National Biosecurity

chain.”

consistent trade,” she said.

2017 and 2018].”

tion must support and enhance

Global context

is consolidating its biosecurity

Livestock Identification and

the strategic priorities of other

Prof Sunil Maharaj, Acting

efforts domestically and aims to

Traceability System, which is an

government departments. The

Vice-chancellor for Research,

position itself to play a lead-

innovative biometric system for

hub will provide government

Innovation and Postgradu-

ing role in the management of

livestock. “Industry endorsed

with a platform to facilitate

ate Education at UP said the

agricultural pests and diseases

the business plan developed

engagements on sanitary and

hub will provide research and

at sub-regional and regional

with all role players by TIA. The

phytosanitary (SPS) matters,

information services to both

levels. “This is particularly im-

DALRRD is rolling out a pilot

allowing quicker responses

the public and private sec-

portant as pests and diseases

project with the Council for Sci-

and ensuring that appropriate

tors. “This will aid in building

have no respect for geographi-

entific and Industrial Research.

measures are taken in good

confidence in South Africa’s bi-

cal borders,” noted the Minister.

Once complete, it will also

time.”

osecurity, as it will help mitigate

Hub. “Technology and innova-

She added that the country

Other projects include the

support the preparedness for

Mjwara said that the hub will

all risks related to agricultural

Present projects

also dedicate relevant expertise

imports and exports, such as

According to Dr Maneshree

and safe food supply chains,”

to initiatives that support plant

foot and mouth disease.”

Jugmohan-Naidu, Director for

she said.

and animal health, and food safety.

“We are extremely grateful for

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Thoko Didiza also spoke at the

this partnership. It is something

launch. She noted that while

we can solidly celebrate as it

government is responsible for

will play an inestimable role in

setting and maintaining the

building resilience in our coun-

biosecurity-related regula-

try’s economy, instilling confi-

tory framework, the scientific

dence in our trading partners

community, private sector and

about our biosecurity strategies

producers have a role to play in

and standards, and meeting

creating a holistic biosecurity

all our trading partners’ related

system.

compliance regulations. This

pandemics and ensure resilient

“It is important to prevent or

will help to increase our market

limit the spread and introduc-

access, economic growth and

tion of quarantine pests and

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

25

Writer: Allison Cooper

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP FEATURE

Know more about diabetes Gestational diabetes, which is diagnosed during pregnancy, usually goes away after the child is born.

According to Diabetes South Africa National Manager Margot McCumisky, Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented and there is no cure. “If not treated, it will result in death,” she says.

McNulty says untreated Type 2 diabetes can result in long-term complications, such as blindness, amputation, heart disease and kidney fail-

D

ure. “These are preventable iabetes is the number

insulin properly, says McNulty.

one killer of women in

“There are three types of

South Africa.

This is according to Bridget

if the diabetes is diagnosed

says McNulty.

Type 2, which accounts

early enough, good treatment

diabetes – Types 1 and 2, and

for 90% of cases, is usually

is given and lifestyle changes

gestational diabetes.”

caused by a lack of insulin

are made.”

McNulty, one of South Africa’s

Type 1 is an autoimmune

most trusted diabetes voices,

condition in which the body

and insulin resistance. “It is hereditary and is often called

According to McCumisky,

who obtained the information from Statistics South Africa.

“This is horrific, as diabetes should not be a lethal condition,” she says.

McNulty co-founded Sweet Life, SA Diabetes Advocacy and the Diabetes Alliance.

warning signs of diabetes

“Many people experience no symptoms or only one or two symptoms, which are not alarming enough to make them go to a doctor.”

include being very thirsty, urinating frequently, weight loss for no apparent reason, slow healing of wounds, repeated infections and blurred vision.

“Many people experience

She is also a member of the

no symptoms or only one or

International Diabetes Fed-

two symptoms, which are

eration’s Blue Circle Voices

destroys the cells in the

a lifestyle disease because it

not alarming enough to make

and a published author.

pancreas that produce insulin.

can be caused by being over-

them go to a doctor. If one

“It is not caused by eating the

weight or obese, eating the

has a genetic risk factor, for

body produces too little or

wrong food, eating too much

wrong foods and not exercis-

example, if someone in their

no insulin, or is unable to use

sugar or being overweight,”

ing,” McNulty explains.

family has been diagnosed

Diabetes occures when the

26

Warning signs

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

with diabetes, they should be screened at least once per year,” she says.

Testing involves an initial finger prick test to assess blood glucose levels. This can be done at any pharmacy or clinic and takes less than five minutes. If levels are abnormally high, you should go to a doctor who will send you for further tests, says McCumisky.

The most common treatment for Type 2 diabetes is tablets (metformin), followed by insulin injections in later years; while the treatment for Type 1 is insulin immediately, says McNulty.

“Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed, but Type 2 can be

Don’t beat yourself up if you

educating yourself about the

drawer, in case they need it

reversed if it is diagnosed

slip now and again, just get

disease and asking questions

for low blood sugar; listening

early enough,” she adds.

back to it and keep going.

so that you can understand

while they vent; or suggest-

Rome wasn’t built in a day,”

how to help them,” she adds.

ing healthy options for work

Tips to prevent diabetes

she adds.

prevent diabetes, McCumisky

Show your support, wear blue

says you should try to lose

The World Diabetes Day (14

weight if you are overweight;

To live a healthier life and help

lunches.”

McNulty says one of the

“With the right support,

most important things you can do is to understand how

diabetes is a manageable

diabetes affects their life.

condition. Without the right

“Every person is different

support – and if people feel

November) theme for the

and support looks different

stigmatised – it can become

start a regular exercise

next two years is; “Diabe-

for everyone. But if you ask:

very difficult to manage. One

routine, even if it’s just short

tes Education and Support”

‘How does diabetes affect

way to visibly show support

walks every day; change to

which forms a crucial part of

you?’ and then listen, you will

is to sign up for the Wear

healthier eating habits; and

treatment for those diagnosed

know how to support them.

Blue for Diabetes campaign

reduce carbohydrates to no

with diabetes, says Mc-

It might be by always having

on World Diabetes Day,” says

more than a quarter of your

Cumisky.

a sugary snack in your desk

McNulty.

plate.

“Making lifestyle changes

“Living with diabetes every day and trying to manage

You can sign up at https://sweetlife.org.za/wear-blue-fordiabetes

can seem overwhelming, so

your blood glucose levels is

set yourself small, reachable

not easy. It is important to

For more information about diabetes, visit www.sweetlife.

goals and keep working at

receive education and sup-

co.za or www.diabetessa.org.za or send a WhatsApp to

them until you achieve suc-

port to assist you along your

Diabetes South Africa’s helpline: 081 578 6636.

cess. Then choose another

journey. You can support your

goal and keep working at it.

colleagues with diabetes by

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

27

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Work underway to establish fund to support women entrepreneurs

P

resident Cyril Ramapho-

chains for a resilient economy,”

sa says work is un-

the President revealed that

derway to establish a

the automotive sector has also

transformation businesses

ment Summit held in July

come on board.

supported by the fund in 2022

2022, the Industrial Develop-

have been women-owned.

ment Corporation committed

gender collaborative fund to support women entrepreneurs to scale their businesses..

Speaking at the second

28

He said that the Automotive Industry Transformation Fund

over five years.

development programme.”

Meanwhile, eight of the 13

At the Gender Lens Invest-

“The automotive sector has

R9 billion towards gender lens

has committed to spending

highlighted its commitment

investing, while the Public

Women Economic Assembly

30% of the overall budget to

towards the meaningful ca-

Investment Corporation com-

(WECONA), which was held

advancing gender transforma-

pacity building to establish a

mitted R12.5 billion.

under the theme; “Unlock-

tion in the industry, amounting

pipeline of women leaders and

"As the term implies, gender

ing gender-responsive value

to a total of around R1.6 billion

owners, including a dealership

lens investing is an approach

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

that considers gender-based

recover from the impact of the

factors across the investment

COVID-19 pandemic.

process to advance gender

“And while the pandemic may

equality and better inform

be in abeyance, unemploy-

investment decisions."

ment is not,” he stressed.

He also highlighted the agri-

He said the pandemic’s

culture sector as a valued part-

devastating impact on lives,

ner, committing to establishing

jobs and livelihoods lost will

a localised manufacturing

continue to be felt for some

infrastructure that will support

time to come, while women

women-owned businesses

continue to bear the brunt.

and build capacity and skills through training programmes.

“We know that more women are unemployed than men.”

“We are committed to us-

According to the President,

ing the policy and legislative

in the second quarter of 2022,

tools at our disposal, such as

47% of South African women

employment equity legislation

aged between 15 and 64 years

Procurement

procuring more from women-

and laws that outlaw discrimi-

were recorded as economically

Meanwhile, he said the Black

owned businesses.

nation, to improve women’s

inactive.

Economic Empowerment Act,

“Indeed, building gender-re-

2003 (Act 53 of 2003) cannot

sponsive value chains is critical

representation in executive

“This means that almost half

leadership and address the

of the working-age women

be separated from women’s

to a resilient economy because

gender pay gap.”

in South Africa are out of the

economic empowerment.

no economy can grow or thrive

Poverty

labour force compared to 36%

“We cannot transform racial

so long as half the population is excluded from it.”

of their male counterparts,” he

patterns of ownership of the

The President told delegates

said, adding that poverty is

economy without changing

that the assembly was taking

higher among women.

gendered ownership patterns

has set and implemented tar-

For sustainability, government

place as the country imple-

He called on WECONA to

and control. This is what the

gets for gender transformation

ments the Economic Recon-

produce outcomes that uplift,

Women Economic Assembly is

and the procurement of goods

struction and Recovery Plan

empower and expand women’s

all about, to change this.”

and services.

to grow the economy, support

access to all levers of the

livelihoods, create jobs and

economy.

The President acknowledged that, in some areas, the country

nearly 6 000 out of the 10 000

has gone backwards, especially

targeted women-owned busi-

on issues like black manage-

nesses in essential business

ment control, skills develop-

skills to qualify in the tender

ment, and giving opportunities

process.

to black women by broadening procurement.

The President launched the inaugural WECONA in October

“For this reason, as govern-

2021 from one of the pillars of

ment, we introduced the target

the National Strategic Plan on

of 40% of public sector pro-

gender-based violence and

curement for women-owned

femicide (GBVF), which advo-

businesses.”

cates the economic empower-

He encouraged all sectors of the economy to commit to

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Government has since trained

ment of women to end GBVF in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

29

Source: SAnews

FEATURE XXX

Economic recovery plan makes progress O

which aims to steer the coun-

two years since the

try back to desirable growth

focuses on economic recovery

country instated the

levels in the aftermath of the

and reconstruction to be im-

recovery from the pandemic,

Economic Reconstruction and

COVID-19 pandemic, at a hy-

plemented by government and

South Africa has experienced

Recovery Plan (ERRP) – a plan

brid joint sitting of the Houses

social partners to stimulate

economic stagnation, which

that puts the focus on pro-

of Parliament.

equitable and inclusive growth.

has put a strain on moves to

the plan.

While the world continues its

grammes being implemented by

The ERRP was developed,

government and social partners

in the short term, to preserve

through the Economic Sectors,

tural economic challenges of

to stimulate equitable and inclu-

lives through supporting liveli-

Investment, Employment and

inequality, unemployment and

sive growth.

hoods, distressed firms and

Infrastructure Development

poverty. COVID-19 has exacer-

financial systems, and

Cluster gave a progress report

bated the country’s social and

healthcare.

on interventions contained in

economic situation.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced details of the plan,

30

In the long term, the ERRP

ctober 2022 marked

Recently, government,

tackle the historical struc-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Owing to the fact that the world does not stand still, the update was given at a time when the Russia/Ukraine conflict (and subsequent sanctions) have renewed the surge in global inflation, weighing on global demand.

Higher inflation is eroding purchasing power, leading to higher interest rates, discouraging and delaying investment and hiring. In addition, fuel prices have increased dramatically, mainly on the back of

electricity grid. Subsequently,

Energy security

the country’s electricity sys-

increasing oil prices due to a

amendments to the country’s

The report noted that Eskom

tem through private sector

resurgence in global demand

Schedule 2 of the Electricity

plant performance has con-

investment in wind, biomass

and the Russian conflict with

Regulation Act, 2006 (Act 4

tinued to deteriorate, imply-

and small hydro, among oth-

Ukraine, among others.

of 2006), which would enable

ing increased risk of frequent

ers. In Bid Window 5, a total

The report focused on eight

the change, were published

and higher stages of load

of 25 preferred bidders, with

pillars implemented by various

by the Department of Min-

shedding. The other chal-

a generation capacity of

government departments.

eral Resources and Energy in

lenges experienced include

2 583 MW, were announced,

While the plan is a collabora-

August 2021.

the sabotage, theft and van-

with the projects’ commer-

dalism of energy infrastruc-

cial closure set for 2025.

tive initiative from government

Other achievements made

and social partners, the up-

include the restructuring of

ture as well as additional

date did not include the inputs

Eskom into separate entities

capacity procurement delays

ernment announced that

of social partners.

for generation, transmission

due to permitting/regulatory

it has increased the wind

In September 2022, gov-

Under the pillar of Macro-

and distribution. Government

approval and procurements

energy allocation for the

Economic Interventions, pro-

also concluded the country’s

process and environmental

REIPPPP Bid Window 6 from

gress made included the rais-

first high-demand spectrum

authorisations.

2 600 MW to 3 200 MW. The

ing of the licensing threshold

auction in April 2022. In ad-

for embedded generation. In

dition, work continues on the

positive steps taken. This

stand at 3 200 MW for wind

June 2021, government raised

review of the policy framework

includes the announcement

energy and 1 000 MW sought

the licensing threshold for new

and processes for work visas,

of preferred bidders for Bid

from solar energy suppliers.

embedded generation pro-

which had experienced some

Window 5 of the Renew-

This was due to the urgent

jects from 1 megawatt (MW)

delays in implementation.

able Energy Independent

need for increased capac-

Power Producer Procure-

ity in the electricity system

to 100 MW, thus removing

“Much progress has been

However, there were some

procurement allocations now

the licensing requirement for

made but we do believe that a

ment Programme (REIPPPP).

as the country has been

generation projects up to 100

lot of work needs to be done,”

The programme is aimed at

experiencing bouts of load

MW that are connected to the

said the cluster.

bringing additional MW onto

shedding.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

31

FEATURE XXX

Employment The update also showed that

Industrialisation and growth

R546.1 million was disbursed

in the agricultural sector

with an investment of R23.5

Among the interventions

to support 58 small, me-

increased by 6.6% in the first

billion, government was able to

named by government is the

dium and micro enterprises

quarter of 2022.

cushion unemployment during

renewed support to grow

(SMMEs), creating 3 211 jobs.

the COVID-19 pandemic. This

South African businesses

In addition, R423.4 million

Tourism

was done through the Presi-

through industrialisation, lo-

was disbursed to 56 SMMEs.

Achievements were also

dential Employment Stimulus

calisation and export promo-

(PES).

tion, thus helping businesses

The programme has to date benefitted 960 972 people,

to thrive and expand.

To date, nine sector master-

In addition, as of 2022,

number of people employed

Green economy and food security Support for SMMEs and

realised in the tourism sector – one of the eight areas covered in the ERRP. The report noted a substan-

84% of which are youth and

plans have been completed

cooperatives in the green

tial increase in international

58% female.

and are under full implemen-

economy saw the creation of

tourist arrivals in the first

tation, while two others have

13 034 work opportunities in

quarter of 2022 compared to

the target) jobs were cre-

been completed and are

the natural resources man-

the first quarter of 2021.

ated, 235 92 (75% of target)

awaiting approval. In addi-

agement portfolio, including

“Total tourism international

livelihoods supported, and 40

tion, eight masterplans are

Working for Water; Working

arrivals increased by 162% in

526 (67% of the target) jobs

being developed in consulta-

for Wetlands; Working on

first quarter of 2022, com-

retained. Using direct public

tion with various stakehold-

Fire, Forestry and Working

pared to the first quarter of

investment, the PES supports

ers

for the Coast. It also includes

2021,” noted the report. In

A total of 726 638 (83% of

job creation, job protection

The report also noted that

environmental protection and

the two years of its existence,

and livelihood support pro-

approximately R80 billion has

biodiversity infrastructure

the plan is changing the

grammes, as part of a wider

been invested in six of the

projects.

country’s landscape.

economic recovery progress.

masterplans.

32

The report found that the

– SAnews.gov.za

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

33

Source: SAnews

FEATURE

Government responds to citizens’ concerns

W

spent some time with young innovators at the Mafikeng Digital Innovation Hub, where they shared their inventive ideas with hopes that one day, with the help of government, they will come to fruition. The hub was established in 2020,

ith the Presiden-

Cyril Ramaphosa has visited

(DDM), which calls for greater

following the call by the Presi-

tial Imbizo having

five provinces – North West,

cooperation between citizens

dent to expand township digital

passed through five

the Free State, Mpumalanga,

and public representatives.

hubs which would incubate new businesses.

provinces already, government

Gauteng and the Northern

is paying attention and taking

Cape, where he interacted with

proach by which the three

steps to address concerns raised

residents.

spheres of government and

Imbizo held at Mmabatho Sta-

state entities work in unison in

dium in North West, President

by citizens.

The izimbizo provide a

This follows the commit-

The DDM embodies an ap-

At the second part of the

ment he made to engage with

an impact-oriented way, and

Ramaphosa said that govern-

platform for the President to

communities throughout the

where there is higher perfor-

ment would place more focus

engage with communities

country in his 2022 State of the

mance and accountability for

on service delivery.

on their experiences of daily

Nation Address.

coherent service delivery and

life and service delivery by government. To date, President

34

March 2022, the President

The platform builds on the District Development Model

development outcomes.

At the inaugural Imbizo in

The inaccessibility of roads in some villages was among the sore points raised by com-

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

for livestock surveillance. The

in August at the Sharpeville

communities also received

Cricket Grounds in Gauteng.

bulls for livestock improvement.

Infrastructure

Housing, sewerage, poor service delivery and unemployment were highlighted by residents as some of the key

Likewise as in the other prov-

areas that government should

inces, residents in Mpuma-

urgently address to improve

langa expressed concern over

their lives.

the status of roads. To address

Responding to questions and

this, tarred roads in Mkhuhlu,

challenges raised by the resi-

Thulamahashe, Dwarsloop and

dents, President Ramaphosa

Shatale will be rehabilitated to

said although the district and

the tune of R50 million in the

the country as a whole faces

2022/23 financial year.

challenges, government is

munities. Since the President’s

West, drug abuse was flagged

visit, some progress has been

as an area of concern and,

made, with 48 km of gravel

to date, substance abuse

has been set aside to construct

During the fifth Imbizo held

road having been bladed from

awareness campaigns have

culverts that link villagers with

in Upington, Northern Cape in

Swartkopfontein to Lekgopung.

been carried out in addition

amenities. A request for a

October, the President reaf-

to a door-to-door awareness

footbridge near Ekuphumuleni

firmed government’s commit-

other issue that was raised at

campaign on substance abuse

Primary School was also made,

ment to leave no one behind

the Imbizo and this has been

carried out at Riverside.

with the promise that this

in delivering basic services. He

would be constructed in this

assured residents that all three

financial year.

spheres of government are

Substance abuse was an-

responded to with weekly

Unemployment was also

Added to that, R10 million

determined to resolve these.

awareness campaigns held at

another bugbear expressed

schools, churches and com-

by residents of Wepener. The

munities. The campaigns focus

community also expressed

with a lack of electricity in

challenges and issues they

on gender-based violence

concern at inaccessible small

Klipfontein, Ward 21 to which a

face.

and femicide, bullying and the

scale mining opportunities to

letter to Eskom requesting the

Throughout the course of

prevention of priority crimes.

which the provincial Depart-

electrification of the area has

the five izimbizo held to date,

In addition, the North West

ment of Economic, Small Busi-

been made.

the President has listened to

Education Department has

ness Development, Tourism

conducted over 20 aware-

and Environmental Affairs will

ness programmes to address

assist interested small scale

Improving the lives of residents

substance abuse and drug

mining applicants.

The fourth instalment of the

all the concerns raised, action

Presidential Imbizo was held

is being taken. – SAnews.gov.za

peddling by learners.

Residents also wanted to see

Concern was also raised

dealing with service delivery

the complaints and concerns raised by residents and while it will take some time to address

around livestock theft in Thaba

upgrades of the Mmabatho

Nchu and Botshabelo. To

Stadium, of which work to ren-

respond to this, 300 tracking

ovate the VIP centre, ablution

devices were installed on dif-

blocks in the main stadium and

ferent farms and commonages

change rooms is underway.

around the areas. In addition,

Another Imbizo was held at

Residents also raised concern

the Department of Agriculture

the Mangaung Metro in the

and Rural Development has

Free State. Like in the North

acquired two security drones

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

35

Writer: Nicholas Francis

GROOMING AND ST YLE

Farmers’ market ready

T

he sun is out, and we have lots to do this summer. Farmers’ markets are a good weekend morning past time to grab brunch or stock up on some fresh produce for the week ahead. We want to be out and about enjoying the summer days and

we like to do it whilst looking good. We have put together a nice cost-effective outfit for a day out in the sun.

2 1

1. Woolworths Print Tiered Puff Sleeve Maxi

3

Dress: R899.

2. Ginger Mary Green lace Up Sandal: R440.

3. CHPO Sarah Sunglasses – Black: R219 available at www.superbalist.com 4. Mr Price Fedora Hat– Oatmeal: R99.99.

5. Superbalist Aurora Crossbody Bag – Black:

4

R399 available at www.superbalist.com * Prices correct at the time of publishing.

5

3636

Public Sector Manager • October 2022

6. Oakridge Navy Golfer: R119.99 available at Mr Price.

7. Woolworths Colour Block Slim Fit Mid Length Swim Shorts: R299.

8. Adidas Gazelles Super Pop/Shadow Red/White: R1 599 available at www.adidas.co.za 9. Superbalist Seth Round Glasses Black: R199 available at www.superbalist.com 10. Mr Price Baseball Cap – Navy: R69.99. * Prices correct at the time of publishing.

6

8

9

7

10

Public Sector Manager • October 2022

37

FOOD AND WINE

Writer: GILDA NARSIMDAS

Light and breezy

summer fare

I

t’s finally Summer – which means the weather calls for light, easy meals that are fulfilling and refreshing. Bring on the delicious salads and summer ingredients because it’s about to get yummy. We have gathered some of the easiest recipes from chef Christine Capendale for a menu she designed for the Disney show Cookabout. Bon Appetite!

Chicken, Apple, Grape and Walnut Salalad with Yoghurt Dressing Ingredients:

• 2 free range chicken breast fillets.

ghurt, sour cream, lime juice

• Place the chicken fillets be-

and zest, chopped chives

tween two plastic bags and

and the rest of the olive oil.

use a meat mallet to flatten

Mix well.

slightly.

• Brush the fillets with 5ml of

• Cut the chicken fillets into strips and mix with the

• 15 ml olive oil.

the olive oil and season with

grapes, celery, walnuts and

• 100 g seedless green and

salt and pepper.

the apple.

black grapes (mixed and halved).

• Heat a griddle pan on high

• Stir the yoghurt dressing

heat and grill the chicken

through the salad and dish

• 30 ml thinly sliced celery.

fillets for about 3 minutes on

up into two plates.

• 20 g chopped walnuts.

each side until cooked and

• 1 green apple (peeled, cored and cubed).

• 60 ml low-fat greek yoghurt.

• 20 ml reduced fat sour cream.

golden brown.

• Remove from the heat cool. Heat a frying pan on

you’ve made it, so feel free

medium heat. Add walnuts

to refrigerate once cooled.

and roast it until crisp and

• 1 ml lime zest.

take a few minutes.

soning.

• extra chives, grapes and lime wedges for garnish. *Serves two

grapes and lime wedges.

• This salad is delicious once ice-cold, a few hours after

golden brown – this will only

• salt and pepper for sea-

• Garnish with extra chives,

and keep to the side to

• 5 ml lime juice.

• 5 ml chopped chives.

38

Method:

• Be careful not to burn the nuts. Remove from pan and cool.

• Mix the following ingredients together to make your salad dressing: Greek yo-

Olive Tapenade Crunch Lamb CUTLETS – Served with Olive, fig and Baby Mozzarella Salad Ingredients:

• 4 trimmed lamb cutlets (chops).

• 15 ml olive tapenade.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

• 50 ml flour.

– make the salad by combin-

• baby lettuce.

on medium heat and cook

• 2 eggs (beaten).

ing the figs, salad leaves,

*Tomato Pesto (can use store-

the patties on both sides

• 150 ml breadcrumbs.

olives, avocado slices and the bocconcini cheese.

• 15 g finely grated parmesan cheese.

• Drizzle 5 ml olive oil and reduced balsamic vinegar

• salt and pepper for seasoning only.

• 20 ml olive oil.

• 120 g baby figs (halved).

• 20 g baby salad leaves.

• 60 g kalamata olives.

• 90 g bocconcini cheese (baby mozzarella).

over the salad.

Yankee Barbecue Beef Burger with Tomato Pesto Relish and Gherkins

*Serves two

and the tomato sauce to

• 4 garlic cloves, crushed.

• chilli to taste (you can

tom halves of the hamburger

chopped chillies).

buns, top with caramelized slices, baby salad leaves and lastly the patties.

buns, cut in half and lightly toasted.

taste. *Serves two

• 20 ml breadcrumbs.

Method:

• 200 g extra lean beef mince.

• Mix the breadcrumbs and 30 bowl.

• Mix the beef mince, chopped chili, Worcester sauce, salt,

• freshly ground black pepper.

barbecue seasoning, black

• 1 small clove garlic

pepper, garlic, parsley, beat-

(crushed).

en egg and the breadcrumb

• 10 ml chopped parsley.

and water mixture together.

flour, shake off excess flour

• 40 ml beaten egg.

Mix well.

and then dip into the egg

• 20 ml olive oil.

mixture.

• 30 ml finely chopped tomato.

• Coat the lamb cutlets with • Heat 15 ml of the olive oil in

• 30 ml tomato pesto*.

• Pinch smoked chili flakes.

a frying pan on medium heat

• 15 ml tomato sauce.

and cook the lamb cutlets

• 50 ml cooked, caramelized onion.

about 5 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towel.

• While the lamb cutlets cook

• 2 slices tomato.

• sliced gherkin.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

burger buns and secure with

ml water together in a small

• 1.25 ml barbecue seasoning.

cheese and place on a plate.

• Add the top halves of the a skewer.

• 30 ml water.

• 1.25 ml salt.

the breadcrumb mixture.

• Spread the relish on the bot-

use chilli flakes or freshly

• salt and black pepper to

• 10 ml Worcester sauce.

• Coat the lamb cutlets with

make a quick relish.

• 70 ml olive oil.

• Spread the olive tapenade

crumbs & grated parmesan

be fine).

• 2 small whole wheat burger

Method:

• Mix together the bread-

pesto, smoked chili flakes

Ingredients:

• 1 ml chopped chili.

evenly over the lamb cutlets.

• Mix the chopped tomato,

tomatoes (store-bought will

onion, gherkins, tomato

sliced). vinegar.

• 150 g drained sundried

until cooked and browned.

• 10 ml brown sugar.

• ½ avocado (peeled and • 7.5 ml reduced balsamic

bought or make your own)

• Make the pesto by combine all the ingredients and use a stick blender to make the pesto. Season to taste.

Keep aside.

• Divide the beef into two portions and shape into patties of about 1.5 cm thick – using a little water on your hands.

• Heat olive oil in a frying pan

39

By: Duane Stacey.

Additional reporting by Ilse Burger

TRAVEL

The cosy Christmas

markets of Edinburgh W hen thinking of

there’s also a decent chance of

Ancient city

on the other, both well worth

Christmas markets,

snowfall adding to the sense of

It's impossible to visit Edin-

a tour. While Holyroodhouse is

complete with

magic. And it certainly doesn’t

burgh and not soak in the his-

the official royal residence in

wonderfully decorated stalls,

hurt that the city goes all out

tory of the city. From ancient

Edinburgh (guests can visit the

hot chocolate and glühwein to

to get into the festive spirit,

stone buildings and narrow

State apartments), for me the

keep you warm against the cold,

with an abundance of artfully

alleyways, to cemeteries which

most memorable part of the

and beautiful trinkets for gift

decorated Christmas trees.

were targeted by graverobbers

tour was visiting the cham-

in the 1800s, reminders of the

bers of Mary Queen of Scots,

past are never far away. The

especially the room where

shopping, it's destinations like Germany and France that nor-

Attractions

mally spring to mind. However,

The Edinburgh Christmas mar-

Royal Mile is bordered by Ed-

her secretary was gruesomely

the historical city of Edinburgh

ket is on East Princes Street

inburgh Castle on one end and

murdered by a group of power-

in Scotland is proving to be a

Gardens, right in the heart

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

hungry Scottish lords. For

wonderful destination to get

of the city and is overlooked

into the Christmas spirit. Sam

by the magnificent castle.

Bradley, who visited the last

There’s lots to keep everyone

Christmas markets in December

entertained, from shopping

2021, explores further.

for quirky gifts such as wind

Once in Edinburgh it won’t

40

spinners, Christmas tree

take long to feel festive: every

decorations and historic maps,

street seems to be adorned

to enjoying a mulled wine,

with historic stone buildings,

or a Big Wheel ride for those

ancient cobbled streets and

feeling brave. The children will

an abundance of delight-

love Santa Land, bumper cars,

fully warm and cosy pubs and

the Christmas tree maze, a

restaurants. The early sunsets

reindeer carousel and Santa’s

and cold temperatures only

grotto, and there’s also an ice

add to the atmosphere, and

rink nearby on George Street.

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

those planning a tour of Edin-

is substantial and satisfying,

burgh Castle, it may be worth

and while you eat you can roll

combining it with the Castle of

a few balls in the beautifully

Light: Hidden Treasures show

restored Victorian-era ten-pin

which runs every evening in

bowling alley (although you’ll

December.

need to manually restack the

Land of whiskey

pins yourself ). Over on The New Town side, the afternoon

Scotland is also known as

tea at The Register Club (on

the land of whisky, so those

the fourth floor of Cheval the

interested in a wee dram and

Edinburgh Grand) is a treat not

a tour don’t have to look far.

to be missed – be sure to try

The Johnnie Walker experience

some of the delicious cocktails.

on Princes Street provides an

If you happen to indulge in a

interactive way to learn about

few too many and need to stay

the country’s national drink,

a little longer, there are 50 styl-

including shows, demos and,

ish apartments right there to

excitingly, the chance to make

choose from.

your own drinks at the end.

Holyrood Distillery is another

Accommodation

option that provides a fascinat-

All that eating, exploring and

an alternative dining option to

mas has gone, there is still

ing tour of their whisky and

shopping can be tiring on the

the self-catering facilities. Fur-

something to look forward to:

gin making distillery, led by

feet, so choosing an accom-

ther down the Royal Mile, the

Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve)

passionate guides and inter-

modation option close to the

Cheval Abbey Strand apart-

is an important occasion in

spersed with generous tastings

city centre is a wise idea. The

ments at Holyrood, renovated

Scotland. It involves a three-

throughout the tour.

74 self-catering apartments of

from a historic 15th century

day party, including torchlight

There are many historic

the Cheval Old Town Cham-

building, also contains nine

processions, outdoor street

restaurants in Edinburgh,

bers are ideally located right

beautiful apartments of various

concerts and parties, providing

allowing visitors to fill those

on the Royal Mile and come

sizes and layouts.

the perfect excuse to extend

rumbling stomachs and take

with decadent rooms and a

a step into the past at the

lovely kitchen, while on the

same time. One of those is The

ground floor there is a roaring

Sheep Heid Inn, established

fireplace and cute Christmas

Need to know:

in 1360 – Scotland’s oldest

decorations in a cosy reception

This year, the Christmas markets are scheduled for

surviving public house. The

area. There is also the delight-

19 November 2022 to 3 January 2023.

menu is exciting and the food

ful Luckenbooths restaurant as

Public Sector Manager • November 2022

Best of all is that once Christ-

your stay.

41

XXX

42

Public Sector Manager • November 2022