PSM September 2023

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2023

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Dr Edward Nkadimeng blazes trail in science and innovation

Public Service Month

building a professional public service for quality service delivery

Support domestic tourism SEPTEMBER 2023

travel local this Tourism Month

Contents: September 2023 FEATURES

22. Modern gardening set to boost food security Farmers innovate in the face of climate change

24. Preserving the rich heritage of the Khomani San

The world’s oldest ancient tribe is being conserved for future generations

26. Beyond duty: enhancing service delivery in South Africa

16

South Africa’s public servants strive for citizen-centred service

28. BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth

Summit calls for special attention to Global South concerns

REGULARS

30. Domestic tourism: the bedrock of South Africa’s tourism

8. Conversations with leaders

34. A mapping framework for jobs, occupations and qualifications in the

Tracking the EPWP progress with Public Works Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts

Fostering pride in our rich heritage through local travel

Public Service

Human resources are adapting to a changing skills environment

12. Women in the public sector

KZN Treasury’s Carol Coetzee shores up economic defences in the province

16. Trailblazer

Young physicist Dr Edward Nkadimeng is blazing a trail in science and innovation

18. Profiles in leadership

Working on Fire’s General Manager Antoinette Jini leads the way in extinguishing soaring employment levels

20. From the Union Buildings

Progress on economic reforms will revive growth and jobs

2

8

28 38. BRICS building a 'pluriversal' world

BRICS envisions a global community with a shared future

42. Professionalisation of the Public Service equals improved service delivery

An ethical environment sets the stage for better engagement with communities

LIFESTYLE 52. Grooming and style

Wear your South African story this Heritage Month

44. Go beyond excellence: utilise M&E

Monitoring and evaluation necessary for accountability in service delivery

46. Mentoring young boys to fight against GBVF

Change agent Kabelo Chabalala fights toxic masculinity in

54. Food and wine

Tripe and samp: a delicacy to enjoy this Heritage Month

56. Travel

Visit St Helena for an adventure-filled holiday

communities

56

48. TIKZN doing its bit to attract investment

Businesses prove KZN is an attractive investment destination

50. South African wine industry boosts the economy Buying local reaps lekker results

54

Public Sector Manager THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS Publishers: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Enquiries: +27 012 473 0010 Switchboard: +27 012 473 0000 Tshedimosetso House: 1035 Francis Baard Street (corner Festival Street), Hatfield, Pretoria Private Bag X745, Pretoria, South Africa, 0001 www.gcis.gov.za Acting Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa Acting Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services Terry Vandayar Deputy Director-General: Intergovernmental Coordination & Stakeholder Management Michael Currin

Head of Editorial and Production Zanele Mngadi Zanelemngadi@gcis.gov.za Managing Editor Tshepo Nkosi tshepon@gcis.gov.za News Editor Miriam Mokoena miriam@gcis.gov.za GCIS Photographic Unit Elmond Jiyane Ntswe Mokoena Siyabulela Duda Kopano Tlape Busisiwe Malungwane Production Assistants Jauhara Khan | Sebastion Palmer Graphic Designers Tendai Gonese | Benny Kubjana

Deputy Director-General: Content Processing & Dissemination Regomoditswe Mavimbela

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

3

EDITORIAL

Public Service Month: recommitting to serve the people of South Africa

S

commitment of public servants

administration as enshrined in

The programme is imple-

Service Month – a service

throughout the country.

Section 195 of the Constitution

mented through the Batho Pele

delivery improvement

This year’s commemora-

of the Republic of South Africa,

Principles by taking the Public

mechanism that annually reflects

tions reflect on the work of the

1996 and the aspirations of the

Service to the people and as-

on the work of the Public Service

Public Service, in line with the

National Developmentp Plan

sessing whether the service

and celebrates the unwavering

values and principles for public

2030.

delivery machinery supports the

4

eptember marks Public

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

implementation of the transfor-

most transformational summits

motivating employees. You can

been put in place to address

mation agenda.

in the history of the gather-

prepare younger employees

these challenges. As part of

The theme for the 2023 Inte-

ing. This was thanks to the

for senior positions by mentor-

Public Service Month, the

grated Public Service Month

dedication of the team behind

ing them, ensuring skills reten-

Department of Public Works

is; “Building a professional

the scenes, which flew the

tion and succession planning.

and Administration (DPSA)

Public Service for inclusive

South African flag high. These

Mentoring programmes can

will host an employee health

quality service delivery” – a

are the public servants we are

increase employee produc-

and wellness Indaba to reflect

recognition of the essential

celebrating this month.

tivity, develop skills, ensure

on the post-COVID-19 health

role played by the public

Government continues to put

career development, promote

wellness of public servants.

sector towards the country's

in place measures aimed at

succession planning and skills

The DPSA has also part-

ability to realise its strategic

strengthening how we serve

transfers, strengthen team-

nered with the Public Service

development plans to build a

our nation. These include the

work, assist in performance

Commission to establish the

capable and developmental

National Framework towards

management and accelerate

reported trends on sick leave

state.

the Implementation of Pro-

competence among employ-

use and likely abuse, and to

As we celebrate Public

fessionalisation of the Public

ees.

establish whether sick leave

Service Month, let us keep

Service, which aims to ensure

As public officials we col-

and the Policy and Procedure

in mind the fact that being a

that only qualified and compe-

lectively bear the brunt and

on Incapacity Leave and Illhealth Retirement are applied

public servant is not just a job but a privilege that tasks us to serve and provide a better life, that is evident in the lived realities of all South Africans.

From providing quality

“As public officials we collectively

bear the brunt and wrongdoings of any one public servant”.

correctly.

This is aimed at ensuring that our position as a caring employer is demonstrated in both policy and action.

education to students, better

In addition, the Public Ad-

healthcare to patients, clean

ministration Ethics, Integrity,

and safe water to communi-

tent individuals are appointed

wrongdoings of any one public

and Disciplinary Technical As-

ties, improved roads and in-

into positions of authority,

servant. I, therefore, urge each

sistance Unit at the DPSA sup-

frastructure, as well as reliable

in pursuit of a transformed,

of you, to serve with pride

ports departments in manag-

information and electricity to

developmental and more pro-

and transparency in your line

ing disciplinary processes and

our people – it is time to roll up

fessional, ethical and capable

of work and steer away from

precautionary suspensions.

our sleeves and right the chal-

public sector.

abusing your role as a public

This Public Service Month,

lenges our country faces, and

We are currently working

servant.

let us reflect on the year past,

recommit ourselves to serving

under tough economic times,

Recent media reports have

heed the lessons learnt and

our people better.

with incentives like perfor-

raised concern on the number

ensure that we leave no one

A perfect example of how

mance bonuses having been

of government employees who

behind. Let us continue to live

commitment and dedication

suspended and working with

are alleged to have been on

by the Public Service Pledge

can yield great results is the

limited resources. I urge you

long absences from work due

that we all committed to – of-

successful hosting of the 2023

as decision-makers in the

to prolonged suspensions and

fering a high standard of pro-

BRICS Summit, which has

public sector to come up with

long-term sick leave.

fessional ethics and integrity

been described as one of the

creative ways of engaging and

Several interventions have

in the Public Service.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

5

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL

Celebrating our

diversity through heritage bution to our social, economic,

national endowment has to offer.

has a positive ripple effect on our

health, and scientific well-being,

From the prestigious heritage

economy.

especially for rural, township,

sites, to our magnificently pre-

Our heritage is one of unity,

and peri-urban communities and

served wildlife, beaches along

resilience and strength and

as an active participant in the

the sunny coast, to our inland

our people’s steadfast spirit to

global arena.

countryside gems – it is your

celebrate our country also led to

It is a time where we as a

country, own it.

our domestic expenditure rise by

country reflect on our past,

Government recognises

19.7% from 2022. According to

honouring those who paved

domestic tourism as one of the

Statistics South Africa, the travel

the way before us, fostering

areas that can contribute to the

and tourism sector contributed

greater social cohesion, healing,

development of the economy

to nearly 3.2% to South Africa’s

nation-building and creating our

while also strengthening the

gross domestic product (GDP),

shared identity. From the beauti-

tourism sector.

surpassing agriculture, utilities

ful woven traditional fabrics, to

Our economy relies heavily on

and construction in 2021.

paying homage to our ancestral

domestic tourism, not only to

According to the World Travel

eptember bodes as one of

lineage, indulging in dishes and

boost our hospitality and tourism

& Tourism Council, the sector’s

our country’s most vibrant

sharing indigenous knowledge

sector, but to create employment

contribution to the GDP was

and vital commemora-

Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting GCIS Director-General.

S

passed down from generations

opportunities, as well as show-

forecasted to increase to more

tions. It is a time envisaged by the

before us, surrounded by friends

case and support local entrepre-

than 7.4% (R554.6 billion) by

motto of our Coat of Arms; “!ke

and family under the magnificent

neurs and businesses.

2023, also leading to the creation

e: /xarra //ke”, encouraging us to

African landscape – this is what

More and more South Afri-

of more than 800 000 jobs over

unite in our diversity.

we gratefully call our heritage.

cans are finding ways to travel

the next decade reaching more

Let us take this opportunity,

and explore affordably within our

than 1.9 million jobs by 2032.

as a nation in celebration of our

which comes at the beginning

borders as domestic tourism has

As we explore our beautiful

rich cultural diversity, paying trib-

of the beautiful Spring season to

seen a remarkable upward trend,

nation, we also contribute to

ute to the colourful thread that

learn, taste, travel, dance, sing,

with a 30.8% increase in over-

its livelihood and continue to

once divided, but today unites us

explore, contribute to, and appre-

night trips, and a 16.2% in day

strengthen our heritage.

all as proud South Africans. This

ciate all that our beautiful nation

trips during the first quarter of

To further boost domestic

tallies well with the theme for

has to offer. It is no coincidence

2023, as compared to 2022. Just

travel, the Sho’t Left Travel Week

At this time, we come together

this year’s Heritage Month; “Cel-

that we celebrate heritage and

scroll through TikTok and you will

Sale occurs annually every first

ebrating our cultural diversity in

tourism during the same month.

stumble across countless videos

week of September and offers

a democratic South Africa.”

This serves as the opportune

of fellow South Africans explor-

incredible travel deals and pack-

The 2023 celebrations focus on

time to honour our country’s rich

ing and sharing their stunning

ages to allow South Africans to

South Africa’s rich and diverse

tapestry by taking a Sho’t Left

Sho’t Left experiences, showcas-

travel locally.

culture and its immense contri-

and experiencing all that our

ing that each trip we take locally

6

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

Image: Matthew Henry on Unsplash

CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

8

Writers: Neo Semono Photos: Fikile

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

Tracking EPWP progress W

that have been trained in artisan programmes to gain work experience.

This includes the placement and absorption of young people by contractors on projects implemented by the DPWI. Some young people trained in the mechanical engineering field have been absorbed by mining and car repair companies as part of the partnership.

Participants in the programme obtain various skills such as painting, brick laying and carpentry, home community-based care skills and fire-fighting

hile the Expanded

programme that promotes the

programme is having a positive

among others. Training is fund-

Public Works Pro-

use of labour-intensive methods

impact in terms of poverty al-

ed through the National Skills

gramme (EPWP) has

to create work opportunities for

leviation.

Fund and budgets of projects in

provided job opportunities for

poor and unemployed South

The Department of Pub-

different public bodies.

close to two decades, work is un-

Africans.

lic Works and Infrastructure

Changing lives

derway to ensure that its footprint

In addition to gaining skills

(DPWI) is the custodian of the

The EPWP also contributes to

reaches more people.

and earning an income, the

programme, which is being

household incomes, with over

By March 2023, the pro-

work opportunities also allow

implemented by over 300 public

R12 billion having been trans-

gramme had steadily created

participants to gain valuable

bodies across the three spheres

ferred to participants as wages

over 14 million work opportuni-

work experience that make

of government.

in 2022/23.

ties since its inception in April

them employable.

2004.

Through its various five-year

“The EPWP has been a good

“The final figure, according to our records, was R13.2 bil-

phases, which have been im-

Training for the future

programme from its inception

proved upon over the years, the

The programme has morphed

added.

19 years ago. The main focus of

programme has granted work

with each subsequent phase it

While creating a livelihoods

the programme is to alleviate

opportunities to many across

has undergone and the current

for participants, the EPWP also

poverty by providing job op-

the length and breadth of the

five-year Phase IV comes to

contributes towards service

portunities.

country.

an in 2024. The current phase

delivery. Projects include road

“This is important because it

In an interview with Public

has created 3.9 million work

maintenance, construction of

is not just a job opportunity, it is

Sector Manager magazine at

opportunities against the five

schools and clinics, environ-

an opportunity that must pro-

her office in central Pretoria,

million target.

mental greening, cleaning and

vide a skill to participants,” said

Swarts said various research

Swarts revealed that in the

removing alien vegetation.

Public Works and Infrastructure

reports and mid-term review

current phase, the EPWP has

Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts.

reports of the different phases

been strengthening its partner-

Participation

The EPWP is a medium-to

of the EPWP show that the in-

ships with the private sector in

In order to increase the partici-

long-term government-funded

come participants earn from the

getting placements for youth

pation of vulnerable groups in

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

lion being paid in wages,” she

9

CONVERSATION WITH LEADERS

society, the current phase of the

wearing orange overalls as “not

bring them in as project manag-

ent proposals being considered

programme has put demo-

cool” while others believe that

ers on site to oversee the work

for the phase.

graphic targets in place. For

they cannot take part in the

that is being done.”

“[The] EPWP must and will be

women participation this is set

EPWP because of the qualifica-

Policy

the backbone of creating em-

at 60% while the targets for the

tions they hold.

In 2022, the DPWI developed

ployment in the country. After

youth has been pegged at 55%.

“[This] is a wrong mindset

the EPWP Policy, which has

19 years [and] as we prepare for

According to the Deputy

because if you have a degree in

been approved by Cabinet for

the 20 years celebrations, which

Minister the targets relating to

administration and have been

public consultation and is ex-

we are doing as DPWI at the

women are being met while

at home for five years, surely

pected to be finalised by March

end of this November, we are

that of young people are yet to

you must be able [to come to

2024.

going to start showcasing and

be met.

a point where you] say ‘let me

On what the future holds for

celebrating the EPWP.

“For the 2022/23 financial

deviate and participate in a

the programme that contin-

“It must just not be about

year, the achievement for

programme that is going to give

ues to evolve, Swarts says the

celebrating, it must be about

women was at 69% while that

me a skill’,” she said.

DPWI and its stakeholders are

us bringing all participants and

of youth was at 40%. Interven-

The programme also caters

developing proposals for the

stakeholders on board.”

tions are being put in place

for people living with disability

next phase of the programme,

The Deputy Minister is confi-

through better targeting dur-

by making provision for them

which is scheduled to start

dent that those who complete

ing recruitment and having

to form their own companies.

in April 2024, if approved by

the programme are capable of

youth-focused programmes to

The Deputy Minister noted that

Cabinet.

becoming entrepreneurs who

improve the achievement of

more needs to be done to ac-

Expanding the reach of the

can contribute to the country’s

targets for youth,” explained the

commodate people living with

programme, improving training

economic development.

Deputy Minister.

disabilities.

and skills development, and

She attributed this to the fact

“ We need to bring in people

improving on exit strategies for

that some young people view

with disabilities and we can

participants are some the differ-

10

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

Writer: Sihle Manda

KZN shores up economic defences T

he resilience of the

affected communities and busi-

KwaZulu-Natal govern-

nesses.

ment’s financial rigour was

One of the leaders in

in the past three years pushed to

spearheading the prov-

the precipice.

ince’s economic recovery

First came the COVID-19 pan-

is KwaZulu-Natal Treasury

demic in 2020, a contagion that

Head of Department, Carol

put unprecedented strain on

Coetzee. In July 2023,

the healthcare sector and led to

Public Sector Manager

loss of lives. The second crisis

(PSM) magazine spoke to

was civil unrest in July 2021, that

her at the conclusion of

involved widespread looting

a year-long leadership

and the burning down of key

coaching course she

infrastructure such as shopping

attended with other

malls. Just as the province was

senior managers.

recovering from this dark period,

Conducted by

severe floods hit in April 2022,

professional

damaging critical infrastructure

services firm,

and killing many.

PwC, the pro-

These three disasters were a

gramme sought

terrible setback for the largely

to improve the

rural province of 11.5 million

individual and col-

people and the scars continue

lective performance

to show. The provincial govern-

and productivity of

ment, through its Treasury, had

senior managers,

to step in to provide relief for

as well as help to

12

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

implement sound performance

for public servants to under-

to affected communities and

Internal auditors did value-for-

management processes.

stand and complement each

businesses.

money assessments, particularly

Coetzee, a qualified Chartered

other. “How we think; what our

The province learnt quite a

on infrastructure projects, to see

Accountant and experienced

personality types are – that is

few lessons in disaster manage-

if we were getting the value we

public servant, lauded the

essential to making us work as a

ment and it was a bumpy ride at

needed,” Coetzee said.

programme. “When I started

team,” she said.

first. “We had to reprioritise our

On an ad-hoc basis, the

resources. You will remember

department had to repeatedly

this journey, I had only been on the job for two months. It was a

Dark days recalled

the big debacle with the

rely on its infrastructure team to

great opportunity for me to get

While KwaZulu-Natal's econom-

R1 billion we kept requesting

assist with conditional assess-

to know my team at a different

ic turnaround strategy is slowly

from National Treasury. But

ments to quantify the damage

level and cement being one

bearing fruit, Coetzee cannot

there were a lot of lessons in

sustained and process applica-

team,” she said.

help cast her mind back to the

terms of improving our coordi-

tions. “It was about making sure

Having a common purpose,

three disasters that befell the

nation, understanding the roles

that there was a clear plan, with

she noted, was one of the big-

province and what they taught

and responsibilities of all the

clear responsibilities, and mak-

her department.

departments, particularly when

ing sure that there was moni-

The availability of resources,

facing a disaster.”

toring of what needed to take

gest takeaways from the programme. “What I learned, particularly

place. We also had to deal with

when we had the

transgressors decisively,” she

Internal auditors did value-for-

joint team sessions with the

money assessments, particularly on

whole executive,

infrastructure projects, to see if we

was that I have a highly competent

were getting the value we needed.

team – committed and dedicated,”

reiterated.

Learning the hard way The period, she said, was a mass of uncertainty, adding that departments were not sure who was responsible for what. How-

she commented.

“The challenge was

she recounted, was the biggest

During and after the natu-

ever, after a series of disaster

that there was no

challenge during these tumultu-

ral and human disasters, the

management workshops, these

common purpose.

ous times. The province shelled-

province expeditiously adopted

issues were clarified.

There was emo-

out R2.929 billion on COVID-

vital mechanisms that ensured

A prime example of this was

tional fatigue and so

19-related expenditure, while

prompt government response

when the provincial government

coaching was an op-

the damage from the riots and

to limit the impact on affected

had to apply for funding. “We

portunity for us to talk

floods was estimated at R50 bil-

citizens.

now have a more solid frame-

about our backgrounds

lion and R25 billion, respectively.

“We did pre-audit assess-

work for the next time there’s a

and where we came

In all these three crises, govern-

ments. So before any orders

disaster. We will know what is

ment unveiled a series of relief

were made, we assessed those

required from us. We learned

She said it

funds and expenditure pro-

and we reduced the amount of

really quickly. There are two dif-

was im-

grammes aimed at resuscitating

irregular expenditure. We had a

ferent processes – there is the

portant

infrastructure and providing aid

lot of emergency procurement.

emergency process and then

from.”

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

13

WOMEN IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR

there is the normal disaster

One of the biggest chal-

labour unions. “They then put

public was happier to give

management centre process.

lenges that the province had

together a plan focusing on

money to NGOs [non-gov-

Even from the funding per-

to grapple with, she said, was

key sectors of KwaZulu-Natal

ernmental organisations], that

spective, we learnt a lot around

adequately housing affected

economy in terms of what the

would then support govern-

that.”

families. Inroads in this regard

turnaround strategy should be

ment [efforts and interven-

She tipped her hat to a sup-

– finding suitable land and get-

and directed our resources to

tions]. That tells us that the

portive political system that

ting the necessary regulatory

those areas. That obviously

public has concerns around

decisively dealt with issues.

approvals – were hampered by

talks to the National Develop-

what and how their money

“At first political support was

unavoidable circumstances.

ment Plan, our respective clus-

would be used for. That means

disjointed between the mu-

“There are some things you

ters in government then talk to

the public does not have much

nicipalities because we have

just cannot do quickly. We

those (issues),” she said.

confidence in government.”

political issues in the province.

need to build up a reserve

That was frustrating at times

as a province so that we can

A trust deficit

needed urgent government

because when you are trying

access our own funds quickly,”

This dark period also brought

attention. “It is something

to consolidate the information

she said.

to the fore the public’s simmer-

that government really needs

and compile a report. Some

There’s a glimmer of hope in

ing distrust of government, a

to work on in order to build

political parties don’t want to

the province. The provincial

turn of events Coetzee lament-

confidence around governance

come onboard”. The (provincial

government now has an eco-

ed. This deficit in trust became

issues,” she stressed.

political) leadership was very

nomic council with represen-

apparent when government

decisive and intervened when

tation from government, the

made a call for donations.

needed,” she said.

private sector civil society, and

“The response was poor. The

14

Coetzee said this reality

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

Writer: Sihle Manda

TRAILBLAZER

Young physicist

blazes trail in science and innovation D

r Edward Nkadimeng, is

conditions for at least 15 years.

ment. My work focuses on the

breaking work is already earning

employed as a researcher

“Our goal is to deliver South

development of test benches

him some acknowledgement. In

at National Research

African-manufactured elec-

and the analysis of data to

June 2023, the Mail & Guard-

Foundation’s (NRF) iThemba

tronics for this critical upgrade

ensure the durability, reliability,

ian recognised Nkadimeng as a

LABS as part of the Technology

at CERN, contributing to the

and performance of the LVPS

leading innovator in Technology

Innovation Platform for the de-

advancement of particle physics

system,” he explained..

and Innovation in its 200 Young

livery of prototype South African

research for the ATLAS experi-

Nkadimeng’s work focuses on

South Africans initiative.

electronics for the upgrade at

the development of test benches

The recognition by the Mail

CERN, the largest particle physics

and the analysis of data to de-

& Guardian was “an incredibly

research facility in the world.

termine the properties and per-

humbling experience”. It serves

He has been instrumental in

formance of the LVPS system.

as validation for the hard work,

the development and optimisa-

He and his team collaborate and

dedication, and impact that

tion of the project’s Low Voltage

contribute to the advancement

my research and innovation

Power Supply (LVPS) system.

of particle physics research for

efforts have had in advancing

These are complex electron-

the ATLAS experiment. Through

technology and driving societal

ics systems that are required to

collaboration with international

progress. This recognition not

operate under harsh radiation

associates, his team has been

only motivates me to continue

able to leverage expertise

pushing boundaries but also

and resources to enhance

inspires other young Africans to

South Africa’s capabilities

pursue their dreams and make a

in cutting-edge technol-

meaningful contribution to their

ogy and innovation.

fields,” he added.

His ground-

16

Despite the accollades, Nkadi-

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

meng continues to work hard.

principles of the universe, he

sion for scientific exploration.

expanding broadband cover-

His biggest aspirations revolve

decided to further his studies in

“While a career in science was

age and providing more afford-

around fostering innovation,

the field of experimental particle

not initially part of my plan, my

able devices to improve digital

driving technological advance-

physics.

early fascination with comput-

literacy and skills. Additionally,

ment, and making a positive

Nkadimeng went on to com-

ers and technology fuelled my

fostering a thriving tech start-up

impact on society. “I aim to con-

plete his BSc (Honours) Degree

passion for problem-solving and

ecosystem and prioritising sus-

tinue bridging the gap between

in Physics at the University of

innovation. As I grew older, I

tainable and socially responsible

academia and industry, apply-

the Free State in 2018, followed

realised that a career in physics

innovation is crucial for promot-

ing cutting-edge research to

by his BSc (Honours) at Wits

would provide me with the op-

ing STEM and driving long-term

real world problems. One of my

University and a PhD in Experi-

portunity to explore my interests

economic growth.”

primary aspirations is to serve as

One of his proudest career

a role model and inspire young

moment was being appointed to

“Nkadimeng’s work focuses on the

black South Africans, particularly those from underrepresented

development of test benches and

backgrounds, to pursue careers in science and academia,”.

“I want to show them that it is

the analysis of data to determine the properties and performance of the

possible to break barriers and succeed in fields traditionally

LVPS system.”

dominated by certain groups. By

co-convene the official ATLAS Tile Calorimeter Phase II lower voltage (LV) and LV DCS working groups. The role, spanning from 2020 to 2023, allowed him to lead a team of experts in the development and implementation of critical components for the upgrade of the ATLAS

increasing representation and

experiment at CERN. “Being

diversity, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable scientific

mental Particle Physics at the

and contribute to pushing the

entrusted with such a significant

community. I also aspire to make

same institution in 2022.

boundaries of knowledge and

responsibility in a prestigious

technology,” he said.

international collaboration is a

significant contributions to the

Throughout his academic

field of particle physics through

journey, he has actively engaged

rigorous research and innovative

in diverse projects, including

discoveries,” said Nkadimeng.

machine learning, firmware de-

STEAM for economic growth

velopment for electronic boards,

Nkadimeng said while the

and radiation test campaigns for

country had made progress in

achieving a pass for the AT-

CERN electronics.

promoting science, technology,

LAS Final Design Review by

Nkadimeng has come a long

Speaking to the Public Sector

engineering, Art and mathemat-

introducing the latest design of

way from his early days growing

Manager magazine, Nkadimeng

ics (STEM) more could still be

Electronics. “This accomplish-

up in Emalahleni. His interest

said these experiences broad-

done. “Increasing investment in

ment showcased my expertise

in science deepened during his

ened his skillset and allowed

research and development, both

and contribution to the field of

undergraduate studies at the

him to apply his knowledge to a

through government funding

experimental particle physics. It

University of the Free State,

wide range of scientific chal-

and private-sector partnerships,

demonstrated the effectiveness

where he completed a Bach-

lenges.

is critical. It is also essential

of my research and innovation

elor of Science (BSc) Degree in

His journey showcases the

to improve access to technol-

efforts, contributing to the devel-

Physics and Chemistry in 2016.

transformative power of educa-

ogy and digital infrastructure,

opment of cutting-edge tech-

Driven by his fascination with

tion, resilience in the face of

particularly in underserved

nologies for scientific research,”

understanding the fundamental

challenges, and a deep pas-

areas,” he added. “This includes

he added.

Fascination with science

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

testament to the expertise and leadership I have demonstrated in my field,” he says.

His other achievement was

17

Writer: Sihle Manda

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

WoF doing its bit to extinguish soaring employment levels B

oisterous chants have

directly in Canada,” Jini elabo-

become synonymous with

rated.

the country’s international

(WoF) teams depart or arrive from

Growing through ranks

firefighting missions.

The seasoned public servant

The charged atmosphere

first joined the programme in

almost manifests as latent

2012 as a firewire project man-

heat from the latest rounds of

ager in Piet Retief in Mpuma-

inferno-ravaged missions suc-

langa. Two years later, she was

cessfully doused.

promoted to regional manager

Western Cape and Free State

in the same province.

airports whenever Working on Fire

WoF General Manager Antoi-

who led 200 Mzanzi 1 Hotshots

fighters, the Mzanzi 1 Hotshots

In 2018, she was tasked with

nette Jini is an integral part of

firefighters deployed to put out

team had the opportunity to

being the Eastern Cape Ground

the the senior management

wildfires in Alberta, Canada.

observe and learn from Cana-

Operations Manager, where she

team that ensures that missions

This was not Jini’s first rodeo.

da’s methodologies, strategies

oversaw 26 bases. In 2020, Jini

are executed without a glitch.

“I have been to Canada before,

and best practices in wildfire

became the fourth female gen-

“My job entails strategic

I was in Alberta in 2019, and in

management.

eral manager in the programme.

leadership in managing roles

2021 I was in Manitoba, another

Jini expounded that Canada's

and operational responsi-

province. This time around I was

firefighting techniques were

agency representative. I am

bilities, including health and

back in Alberta.

markedly unique to those em-

the agent between the incident

safety, finances, human resource

“We were highly motivated.

ployed in South Africa.

management team in Canada

management, and contractual

We knew that we were going to

“They do not do direct attacks

and my managing director in

aspects of WoF in the two prov-

lift high the South African flag

on fires as we do in South Africa.

South Africa. As a representa-

inces, in accordance with com-

in terms of how we were going

In terms of their firefighting

tive, I sit in the meetings of the

pany policies and procedures,”

to perform our duties and make

approach, they have helipad

incident management team

she told Public Sector Manager

sure that we work profession-

pins. Here at home we are the

where the camps are,” she

magazine.

ally,” she recounted.

direct attackers of the fires. But

explained.

In July 2023, she was among

While fighting fires alongside

because of the intensity of the

In 2019, she was deployed with

a group of 15 WoF managers

Canadian and international fire-

fires, we do not attack the fires

64 firefighters and a team of

18

“On deployment, I am an

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

coordinators responsible for the

firefighting recruits.

crews.

“This programme has al-

“I am the link between the

lowed participants to fulfill their

strike team leaders and man-

dreams. Remember, education-

agement of WoF back in the

wise, they are not highly quali-

country, to update them on the

fied. What they do with their

situation in Canada.

income is unbelievable, they

“I have to ensure that objec-

invest in their children, their

tives, which are given by inci-

families and themselves.

dent commanders, are delivered

“Some of them buy houses

everyday.. I sit in these meetings

and even improve their educa-

because they (management) have to give feedback on how these teams have to perform. I

“Some of them buy houses and even

am the first person to receive

improve their education. It makes

that information. I also do site visits and assess the quality of

a world of difference to the young

the work they do,” she added.

During this period, she is also

men and women. You should hear

responsible for the safety and

the testimonies when they speak on

well-being of the crews while abroad.

their journeys.”

International Cooperation At the beginning of 2019, South Africa and Canada signed a

tion. It makes a world of dif-

selflessness and the core values

Public Works Programme of the

memorandum of understand-

ference to the young men and

of the WoF programme, includ-

Department of Forestry, Fisher-

ing (MoU) that allowed for an

women. You should hear the

ing accountability, teamwork,

ies and the Environment aimed

exchange of fire management

testimonies when they speak on

excellence and adaptability”.

at providing work opportunities

resources between the two

their journeys,” she said.

Njini views being part of the

to the youth. Participants are

countries.

She added that the par-

WoF as a great opportunity as

recruited from marginalised

“[Even] Prior to the MoU,

ticipants also get to apply and

she is always expected to ex-

communities and trained in

firefighting crew from the WoF

work in bigger organisations

ecute the values of the depart-

fire awareness and education,

programme were already being

because of the skills they gain

ment and lead by example.

fire prevention and fire sup-

deployed to Canada,” explained

at WoF.

“I have to lead by example,

pression skills. They are also

Jini.

In a statement, the WoF

especially for the young women

trained in first aid, carpentry,

She brims with pride when

programme commended the

who look up to me, as a leader.

cooking, health and safety, and

she ponders on the impact of

Mzanzi 1 Hotshots for not only

It is a great opportunity that I

communications. To date, the

the programme on, not just the

showcasing their remarkable

am very passionate about”.

programme has recruited over

missions the teams embark on,

firefighting abilities but also

Established in September

5 000 participants.

but also on the participating

exemplifying “professionalism,

2003, WoF is an Expanded

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

19

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS FEATURE

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa

Progress on

cies above 694 MHz on 31 July 2023. This marks a significant

economic reforms will revive growth and jobs

W

step in migration from analogue to digital signal. This means that radio frequencies that were being used for television broadcasting can now be used for mobile telecommunications, which will make network communications more accessible and increase the speed and reduce the cost of data. The implementation of this reform will bring new investment in the telecommunications sector.

e recently released a progress report on

Work is underway to imple-

the economic reforms

ment necessary reforms in our

we are implementing through

logistics sector to address the

Operation Vulindlela, our reforms

challenges that have held back

initiative in The Presidency and

the growth of South African

National Treasury, working with

exports. The lack of investment

the relevant government depart-

and the increased cost of do-

ments.

ing business have added to the

Since Operation Vulindlela

many challenges that we need

was established, we have built

to address.

significant momentum in eco-

A key milestone was reached

nomic reforms to create growth

with the selection of an

and jobs.

international terminal opera-

Through these reforms we

tor to partner with Transnet at

are steadily laying the founda-

the Durban Pier 2 container

tion for a revival of economic

terminal. This terminal handles

growth. By restructuring our

close to half of South Africa’s

network industries like energy,

port traffic.

telecommunications, ports and number of key milestones that

stones was the digital migration

investment for upgrading

for investment and a renewal of

have been reached during the

process we have implemented

equipment and expanding

our nation’s infrastructure.

past quarter.

by switching off analogue

terminal capacity. A key aspect

transmission for all frequen-

of this partnership is that port

This new report highlights a

20

This partnership will increase

rail, we are opening the space

The first of our reform mile-

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

infrastructure will remain state-

Africa’s energy sector to ensure

guarantee water security in the

all five member countries. We

owned and all jobs will be

energy security into the future.

years and decades to come,

were able to showcase the

Meanwhile, the reforms we

while creating jobs and unlock-

potential of South Africa and

have implemented through

ing new agricultural potential.

the African continent as the

of legislation were tabled in

the Energy Action Plan have

We are implementing a

next frontiers of productivity

Parliament that will advance

unlocked new investment in re-

range of other reforms to

economic reform.

protected.

In August, two critical pieces

and growth.

newable energy sources, both

unlock economic growth, from

Many of the participants

The Electricity Regulation

to end load shedding and to

creating an enabling regula-

remarked on the enormous

Amendment Bill will support

use our unique wind and solar

tory environment for hemp

potential of our economic

the restructuring of Eskom

resources to power economic

and cannabis production to

reform agenda to drive growth

into three separate compa-

growth.

eradicating the backlog of title

in the green economy, the

deeds for subsidised housing.

digital economy and other key

nies owned and controlled by

One of key reforms we have

Eskom Holdings, including

prioritised is in the water sec-

an independent grid operator.

tor. We have introduced the

tions, investors continue to

In all of the work that we do,

Through this Bill we will intro-

South African National Water

see value in the South African

our ultimate goal is the same:

duce competition in electricity

Resources Infrastructure Bill to

economy and the benefit of the

to build an inclusive, fast-grow-

generation, enabling a number

establish a dedicated national

reform agenda we are pursu-

ing and dynamic economy and

of independent generators,

water agency to design, plan

ing.

thereby create a better life for

alongside Eskom, to produce

and finance water resource

electricity to meet our coun-

infrastructure.

try’s demand. This reform

This agency will enable

Despite difficult global condi-

We are pleased that the

sectors.

all South Africans.

BRICS Business Forum, which was held from 22 to 24 August,

From the desk of The

will fundamentally transform,

significantly greater investment

was attended by 1 500 inves-

President was published

modernise and improve South

in bulk water infrastructure to

tors and business people from

on 28 August 2023.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

21

Writer: Anele Zikali

FEATURE

Modern gardening set to boost food security M

any South African households are increasingly turning to hydroponic gardening to stave off the threat to food

security brought about by climate change.

Hydroponic gardening is the art of cultivating plants using water instead of soil. This type of gardening saves water and space than the traditional method. More importantly, hydroponic gardening is a practical solution to the growing threat of climate change.

Thulisile Mapaile, who works with Conservation South Africa (CSA) and manages Eat Fresh Aquaponics , a farm that specialises in hydroponics and aqua farming in Mpumalanga, advises households to start their own gardens in line with government’s call for solutions to climate change.

Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy recently addressed this challenge at the Annual Garden Route Environmental Management and Climate Change Indaba.

“Climate change is no longer a distant reality and all of you know that drought, severe wild fires and, more recently, flooding are part of our lived experience,” Minister Creecy said.

The Sixth International Panel on Climate Change Report indicates that the world has already warmed on average by 1.1 degrees above pre-industrial times, and in Southern Africa,

22

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

fordable choices for hydroponic equipment.

“People can assess places where they stay and avoid placing the plant in harsh weather conditions. They can also find different hydroponics gardening styles on YouTube. It is not difficult at all. I also learnt a lot on the job and I am very curious about the future of our country when it comes to saving food “South Africa is a mega biodi-

mixed with manure or compost;

and water. We should fend for

verse country. We will experi-

this helps the plant to be rich in

ourselves and not rely only on

ence climate change impact dif-

nutrients. It can be done on a

in-store bought food,” expressed

ferently in different parts of the

simple two-litre plastic con-

Mapaile.

country. This means we need

tainer. All you do is add water,

With government’s drive to

tailor-made climate resilience

manure or compost, and place

promote hydroponics, aquacul-

plans which will be different for

the crop inside the container.

ture and many other modern

each local area,” stated Minister

The plant grows from the water

forms of farming, Mapaile was

Creecy.

to be an edible vegetable or

recently invited to speak about

fruit.

her work at a seminar in China

The water stays in the con-

and has been to many outreach

tainer for a long time, and new

and educational programmes.

Opting for hydroponics gardening

plants can be grown in the

“Government is working with

Hydroponic gardens are resil-

same water. Another advantage

organisations and individuals

ient to climate change because

is that there are no weeds in this

that are working towards devel-

they can be done indoors and

style of planting. Furthermore,

oping the nation’s food security,

outdoors with minimal costs

the plants are not subjected to

said Mapaile.

and space.

large amounts of water absorp-

She urged more South Afri-

Most plants suitable for this

tion and consumption that soil

cans to acquire knowledge on

type of gardening include leafy

farming requires. Another posi-

hydroponic farming, adding that

vegetables and herbs such as

tive is that hydroponic garden-

she had benefited from free

temperatures are increasing at

spinach, lettuce; herbs like basil,

ing is suitable for different living

training offered by the Depart-

twice the global average. Global

coriander, peppers; cucumber,

environments. For instance, they

ment of Agriculture, Land Re-

warming is associated with ex-

onions and fruit like tomatoes

can be placed on the balcony,

form and Rural Development.

treme weather events that harm

and strawberries.

rooftop or backyard.

economies and livelihoods, as

One of the simplest forms of

well as endanger the security

hydroponics method involves

How to get started

of essential resources such as

planting a crop on water only.

Many hardware and gardening

water, food and energy.

The water must be fresh and

stores have a wide range of af-

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

For more information contact Thulisile Mapaile on t.mapaile@conservation.org

23

Writer: More Matshediso Additional reporting: SANParks

FEATURE

Preserving the rich heritage of the Khomani San T

Khomani San.

important landscape as it forms

Dune Kalahari Region, facili-

space and time, the Kala-

“Through this centre, the

part of the Kgalagadi Trans-

tate educational trips of school

hari is known for its rich

Department of Tourism has

frontier Park with neighbouring

groups and provide entrepre-

cultural and tourism offerings of

enabled the local community

Botswana and Namibia.

neurial opportunities for the

the Kalahari Red Dune Route.

to proudly share the narrative

The route passes through

of their captivating culture with

Preserving heritage

small communities such as Mier,

thousands of tourists who visit

The significance of the park can

The project scope of work in-

Ashkam, Noenieput and Andre-

the park annually," said Tourism

be attributed to its compelling

cluded the conversion of an old

isvale, still home to the world's

Minister Patricia de Lille during

history and a very rich cultural

existing building into the Inter-

oldest ancient tribe, the Kho-

the launch.

heritage with the original inhab-

pretative centre, situated in the

mani. The sound of the Khomani

According to SANParks, the

itants, the Khomani, living close

middle of the Twee Rivieren Rest

reverberates through centuries,

centre provides a unique stop

by and able to contribute in the

Camp and is the only access

echoing the stories of its people.

for tourists at Twee Rivieren Rest

interpretation of the park.

point for visitors from South

Pulsating through the Kalahari,

Camp, allowing modern design

Despite its rich cultural herit-

Africa. This was completed in

the gift of these ancient people

to meet ancient wisdom.

age, there was previously no

March 2023.

can now be shared with all, fol-

An exhibition installation found

interpretation centre to assist

Also included in this, is a

lowing the launch of the

at the centre provides visitors

visitors to gain a full under-

Market Tree (Selling Point)

R3.5 million Twee Rivieren (Kho-

with a demonstration of the

standing and appreciation of the

where San crafters can sell their

mani) Interpretative Centre and

cultural and natural heritage

cultural landscape.

products.

Narrative Development Project.

of the park, ensuring an im-

Apart from the rich cultural

"This R3.5 million project is

"I am delighted and deeply

mersive experience. It includes

heritage, the site has two impor-

funded by the Department of

honoured to launch the Twee

the collection of narratives and

tant biomes with diverse fauna,

Tourism, and SANParks has

Rivieren Interpretative Centre

storylines of the local Khomani

and this attracts visitors from all

been appointed as the imple-

[and Narrative Development]

communities within the Kgala-

over the world.

menting agency. It is situated in

Project in the Kgalagadi Trans-

gadi Transfrontier Park.

"The outcomes of this initiative

a rural node within the North-

frontier Park as it pays homage

The Khomani Cultural Land-

are to improve the overall visitor

ern Cape, one of the regions

to the unique culture of the

scape World Heritage Site is an

experience of tourists to the Red

identified by government for

24

raversing landscapes of

local communities," explained the Minister.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

socio-economic development.

ment for its interest and support

from the interpretation centre

ism and I think it is an important

The department has supported

in preserving this important

and tourism activities in the area.

industry that creates jobs for

a number of projects within the

heritage for the future.

The interpretation centre will

many people, in both rural and

region, all with socio-economic

"This centre is a remarkable

also ensure that tourist guides

urban communities. Tourism also

beneficiation on the San com-

achievement, which could not

have access to information that

strengthens the local economy,”

munities," the Minister explained.

have materialised had it not

is comprehensive, factually cor-

she said.

been for the collective input of

rect and objective.

She added that working at the

the Khomani, experts in his-

One of the beneficiaries of the

park will also help her and fellow

She encouraged Kgalagadi

tory and anthropology, and

training, Roseline Van Neel, from

residents preserve their rich his-

Transfrontier Park tourists to

SANParks in the research and

Mier who could not further her

tory and culture because there

visit the centre and also take

development of the narrative.

studies due to financial chal-

is a lot of cultural and heritage

a guided hike with a Khomani

“It is a showcase of how parks

lenges expressed gratitude for

sites that tourists can enjoy in

tourist guide to learn about the

and communities can work to-

the opportunity created by the

the Kalahari.

wisdom, customs and folklore

gether for the greater good. This

project.

For more information on

of the ancient tribe, to ensure

centre is about the people, by

“I have been unemployed for a

the country’s national parks,

a complete experience of the

the people and for the people,"

long time. I am excited for hav-

visit www.sanparks.org or call

Kahalari.

Sello added.

ing an opportunity to work as a

SANparks on 012 428 9111 for

tour guide because I love tour-

bookings.

Cultural tourism

SANParks Chief Executive Officer Hapiloe Sello said the

Job creation

organisation is proud to be the

To further give expression to

custodian of the project that will

the project, the Department of

assist in showcasing the rich

Tourism has trained 10 tourist

culture of the Khomani and Mier

guides from the Khomani and

communities.

Mier communities. They com-

“This is also the reason why

pleted training as both nature

[the] Kgalagadi Transfrontier

and culture site guides for the

Park was incepted as one of the

Kgalagadi Transfontier Park and

world heritage sites in South

its surrounding areas.

Africa," she said.

The training also allowed the

She commended the depart-

communities to directly benefit

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

25

OPINION

Writers: Yoliswa Makhasi and Mataywa Busieka, DPSA

Beyond duty: enhancing service delivery in South Africa delivery mechanisms. Our approach this year is an integrated one, deliberately crafted to touch and activate every segment of society. There is a clear understanding that for holistic development, no stone should be left unturned, no voice should go unheard. Through this approach, we aim to not just serve but to engage, not just to deliver but to connect, ensuring that our services resonate with the diverse needs and aspirations of our society.

It is recognised that public

A

service is the backbone of any s the Minister of Public

month. From workshops and dia-

is celebrated under the guid-

thriving democracy. Our public

Service and administra-

logues to recognition ceremonies,

ing theme: “building a profes-

servants play a monumental role

tion unveils the official

Public Service Month is more than

sional public service for quality

in ensuring that the machinery

launch of Public Service Month,

a mere celebration; it is a reaf-

service delivery”. This is not just

of our state runs seamlessly.

one cannot help but reflect on the

firmation of our commitment to a

a slogan, but a clarion call to ac-

Their dedication, often unno-

indomitable spirit of our nation's

government of the people, by the

tion and an embodiment of our

ticed, powers our schools, hospi-

public servants. Across the cities,

people and for the people.

goals. The theme underscores

tals and community centres. It

towns and rural heartlands of

This year’s Public Service

our unyielding commitment to

is this profound dedication to

South Africa, an array of activities

Month comes with a special

refining, enhancing, and profes-

service that we salute during

will be unfurled throughout this

focus and direction. The event

sionalising our public service

Public Service Month. This com-

26

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

mitment not only guarantees a brighter future for every South African but also advances our national development goals.

It needs to be admitted though, that dedication to service alone is not the sole trait we require from our public servants. With the public's trust placed firmly upon their shoulders, these cadres are required to uphold the highest of ethical standards.

In recent years, instances of corruption and maladministration have eroded this trust. laboration. South Africa, with

practice, ingrained in an ethical

relationship, is of paramount

as a beacon, reminding our

its rich tapestry of cultures and

orientation.

importance in the bond between

public servants of their moral

backgrounds, demands a public

In this rapidly changing world,

the public and its servants. It

duty, stressing transparency

service that reflects its diver-

continuous learning and adapt-

is, through consistent delivery,

and accountability in all service

sity. It is this unity, this synergy

ability are non-negotiable. Our

transparency and effective

delivery endeavours.

of myriad voices, that ensures

public servants should be at the

communication that this trust is

Professionalism, a cornerstone

comprehensive service delivery.

forefront of knowledge and skills

nurtured. The onus lies on our

of efficient public service, is

The integrated Public Service

relevant to their domains. Public

public servants to not just main-

yet another attribute the Public

Month activities aim to foster

Service Month should not just

tain but enhance this trust.

Service Month activities will

such unity, breaking silos and

be a celebration but also a plat-

As Minister Noxolo Kiviet flags

highlight. Citizens deserve a

encouraging cross-departmental

form for knowledge exchange

off the Public Service Month, it

system that is responsive, ef-

cooperation.

and skill enhancement.

is a clarion call to every South

ficient, and reliable. To meet the

Yet, as we champion our public

Moreover, South Africa's

African – public servants and

evolving demands of our society,

servants, it is crucial to remem-

journey from its troubled past

citizens alike, to not only cel-

it is crucial that our public serv-

ber that the goal remains citi-

to its promising present has

ebrate, but more importantly to

ants remain at the cutting edge,

zen-centred service. Public serv-

been marked by inclusivity and

introspect, innovate and instil a

embracing innovation and mod-

ants are, in essence, the bridge

representation. Our public ser-

renewed sense of purpose in our

ern methodologies. This month

between government's vision

vice, as the representative arm

public service machinery.

should act as a catalyst, spurring

and its realisation on the ground.

of government, should mirror

As we partake in the multi-

our public servants to strive for

Public servants, must, therefore,

this inclusivity. By ensuring that

tude of activities planned for

excellence in every endeavour.

be attuned to the pulse of the

all voices, regardless of gender,

the month of September, let us

community, ensuring that ser-

race or socio-economic back-

remember that at the heart of it

vices provided are both relevant

ground, are heard and repre-

all is our shared dream: a pros-

and timely. Listening and engag-

sented. We forge a service that

perous South Africa powered by

This pursuit of excellence must

ing with citizens should not be

is truly for and of the people.

a dedicated, ethical and profes-

be coupled with unity and col-

an annual endeavour but a daily

Trust, the bedrock of any

sional public service.

Public Service Month stands

Reflecting on diversity

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

27

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Source: SAnews

BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth

P

resident Cyril Ramaphosa

Ramaphosa said.

says the Brazil, Russia, In-

Ramaphosa was speaking at

dia, China and South Africa

the BRICS Africa Outreach and

(BRICS) partnership is a catalyst

BRICS Plus Dialogue, held on

for global growth and develop-

the last day of the 15th BRICS

ment that responds to the needs of

Summit in August 2023.

all nations.

“As the African continent we

“It is the right of Africa and the

are determined that the conti-

entire Global South to fully reap

nent’s substantial resources are

the benefits of global trade and

harnessed for the benefit and

investment. Without trade and

development of Africa’s people.

continental market and gener-

To make use of these opportu-

investment our economies can-

The African Continental Free

ate substantial opportunities for

nities, he said Africa is looking to

not thrive and our peoples’ mate-

Trade Area, once fully operation-

African and other countries,” he

the BRICS partnership to unlock

rial conditions cannot improve,”

al, will unlock the benefits of the

said.

infrastructure and development

28

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

financing, noting this was part of the founding vision of the New Development Bank.

He said the bank is playing a leading role in efforts to increase the resilience of the Global South, and to bring fairness to global trading and financial systems by strengthening the use of BRICS currencies.

“We have to reform global economic, financial and political governance, including the multilateral trading system, so that we create a conducive environment

views with countries of Africa,

Brazilian President Lula da

for fair trade.”

Asia and Latin America.

Silva said he was very impressed

While many countries of the

Modi said that in discussions

with the maturity of the BRICS

Global South are seeing signifi-

during the summit, members

Summit, and the results they

cant progress in industrialisation,

emphasised the priorities and

managed to reach.

technological development, in-

concerns of countries in the

“The GDP [gross domestic

novation and the digital econo-

Global South.

product] of the BRICS is growing

my, they are not fully reaping the

“We believe that calling special

up to 37% of the GDP in terms of

inherent economic benefits.

attention to these issues by

the purchasing power and 46%

“By working together, by shar-

BRICS, is a need of these current

in terms of the world population,”

ing skills and capabilities, by

times... and we welcome all the

da Silva said.

mobilising resources, we will be

new member countries. This

He also commended the team

able to give renewed impetus to

will make global institutions and

from the Foreign Affairs Minis-

global growth and sustainable

forums more representative and

ters for the extraordinary work

development. We need to move

inclusive, a step towards such

they did to conduct the Declara-

Putin said BRICS stand for

beyond expressions of solidarity

efforts of ours.

tion of Johannesburg, which was

rebuilding of a new multi-polar

towards inclusion and mutually-

“When we use the term Global

signed on 24 August, adding

world order, one that is “truly

beneficial economic coopera-

South, it is not just a new diplo-

that BRICS will continue to be

balanced and takes interest in as

tion,” President Ramaphosa said.

matic term. In our shared history,

open to new members and also

many nations as possible.”

we have together faced coloni-

approve criteria procedures for

He said Russia will always re-

alism, [and] it was in this land

future members.

main a reliable food supplier and

Call for special attention to Global South concerns

of Africa that Mahatma Gandhi

continue to support countries

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister

of non-violence and peace-

of India Narendra Modi com-

ful resistance, tested here and

Rebuilding of a new multi-polar world order

mended President Ramaphosa

then used in India’s struggle for

Russian President Vladimir Putin

exists in the world, and BRICS

for hosting a success summit,

freedom. His thinking and ideas

also commended South Africa

will continue to be the driving

noting that the event has given

inspired great leaders like Nelson

for the efforts made during their

force of the new international or-

them the opportunity to share

Mandela,” Modi said.

joint work.

der," Putin said.

developed a powerful concept

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

that are most in need.

“We will promote the overcoming of all ways of inequality that

– SAnews.gov.za

29

Source: Department of Tourism Images: South African Tourism.

FEATURE

Domestic tourism: the bedrock of South Africa’s tourism

S

outh Africa commemo-

preciation for the beauty and

employment opportunities for

Africans, each journey we em-

rates Tourism Month in

richness of South Africa.

our people. When we choose

bark upon within our country’s

Speaking at the national

to explore our own land, we

borders has a ripple effect on

with World Tourism Day on 27

launch of Tourism Month in

not only discover the breath-

various industries. It sustains

September. Tourism Month aims

August 2023, Tourism Minister

taking landscapes and connect

our hotels, lodges, restaurants,

to create awareness, promote

Patricia de Lille highlighted the

through the vibrant cultures that

and countless small businesses

domestic tourism and cultivate

importance of domestic tourism.

define us, but we also contrib-

that rely on our patronage,” said

a culture of travel among South

“Domestic tourism is the bed-

ute significantly to our nation’s

Minister De Lille.

Africans. It is also an opportunity

rock of our industry. It serves as

economic prosperity.

The global theme as set by the

to showcase the country’s diverse

the heartbeat that sustains our

“The impact of domestic tour-

United Nations World Tour-

tourism offerings and foster a

hospitality sector supporting lo-

ism on our economy cannot

ism Organization is; “Tourism

sense of national pride and ap-

cal businesses, and generating

be underestimated. As South

and Green Investments”. It

30

September. This coincides

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

emphasises the significant role

The GTIP was developed and

sector adapt and mitigate the

of tourism in fostering inclusive

informed by escalating electricity

impacts of climate change so

economic growth and develop-

prices, the intensifying pressure

that it not only grows, but thrives.

ment. By generating employ-

on the national energy grid and

sustainability and responsible

ment opportunities, stimulating

associated load-shedding condi-

tourism have, over the last few

local economies, and promoting

tions, as well as water scarcity

years, been a great focal point

social inclusion, tourism be-

and drought conditions, which

in tourism, both here in South

comes a powerful catalyst for

negatively impact the tourism

Africa and globally. Our country

this auspicious occasion. The

positive change.

sector. The programme aims to

has great tourism products that

timing of the Tourism Month

encourage private sector tourism

espouse responsible tourism

national media launch and the

enterprises to move towards the

and, this month, we not only

subsequent hosting of the World

installation of solutions for the

take this opportunity to show-

Tourism Day on the 27th of

In line with the theme, the launch

sustainable management and

case those but we also want to

September 2023 could not have

of Tourism Month took place at

usage of electricity and water

encourage South Africans to

been more opportune because it

the Thaba Legae Guest Lodge in

resources.

advance responsible practices

comes at a time when we have

Rustenburg – one of the ben-

A total of 130 applications for

not only when they travel but in

gone into overdrive in terms of

eficiaries of the Department of

GTIP funding have been ap-

their everyday lives too. We all

recalibrating tourism sector.

Tourism’s Green Tourism Incen-

proved at a total grant value of

need to embrace sustainability,”

“We believe this occasion will

tive Programme. (GTIP)

R76.1million. This funding was

added the Minister.

go a long way in demonstrating

The lodge’s solar photovoltaic

disbursed to tourism establish-

MEC for Economic Develop-

that the tourism ecosystem is

installation was co-funded by

ments all over the country with

ment, Environment, Conserva-

functioning once again, while no

the Department of Tourism to

the department co-funding their

tion and Tourism in North West,

effort is being sparred in re-en-

help the establishment operate

water and energy efficiency

Virginia Tlhapi, also attended the

gineering the tourism economy

despite energy constraints and

measures.

launch.

of the province for the benefit of

“As the North West province,

our people. Our province being a

we stand proud to be part of

multi layered destination, we also

Green Tourism Incentive

“We are committed to doing

offer an uninterrupted visitor experience.

our part in tourism to help the

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

31

FEATURE

stay has decreased by 7.1% to 2.6 nights, domestic tourists are taking more frequent trips. Day trips have also experienced a significant boost, with a 16.2% increase in the number of trips taken from January to April 2023, compared to the same period in 2022. Domestic expenditure rose by 19.7% compared to 2022, showcasing the impact of the adventurous South African tourist. hope to use the Tourism Month

Month aims to increase aware-

accessible, the Sho’t Left Travel

“As we focus on investments on

programme with its concomitant

ness of the accessible, afford-

Week campaign offers South

people, the planet and prosper-

activities as a precursor to the

able, and world-class attractions

Africans access to discounted

ity, let us also acknowledge

Harties centenary celebrations,

available within the country,

deals, in a bigger way so they

the significant role of domestic

which is one of our iconic tourist

including hidden gems and less-

can explore and experience the

tourism in achieving these goals.

destinations in the province,”

er-known tourism products and

length and breadth of South

Exploring the wonders of our

said the MEC.

services, South Africans keen to

Africa’s tourism offering. It seeks

country builds bridges between

As the official host province

explore the sights and sounds

to dismantle current perceptions,

cultures and strengthens the

for the month, North West will

of their country will have a great

unlock access to the country and

fabric of our nation. Let us em-

also host the World Tourism Day

opportunity to get their hands on

is further underpinned by the

brace the spirit of adventure and

celebrations. The entire country

exciting local travel deals.

general call to all South Africans:

explore the richness of our own

will also enjoy the festivities of

South African Tourism’s (SA

It is your country. Enjoy it!” said

land. Let us be stewards of our

Tourism Month with nationwide

Tourism) annual Sho’t Left Travel

SA Tourism Acting Chief Execu-

natural treasures and ambas-

events.

Week will see a host of trade

tive Officer Nomasonto Ndlovu.

sadors for our nation’s warmth

partners, airlines, hotel groups

Domestic tourism has seen

and hospitality. Investing in a

and tour operators offering gen-

a remarkable resurgence, with

more sustainable and inclusive

Research by South African Tour-

erous discounts between 4 and

a 30.8% increase in domestic

tourism industry creates a legacy

ism indicates that South Africans

10 September.

overnight trips during the first

of prosperity and environmental

want to travel and explore their

“In response to what South

four months of 2023, compared

stewardship for future genera-

country but cite affordability as a

Africans have told us and in en-

to the same period of 2022.

tions,” concluded the Minister.

challenge for them. As Tourism

suring that we make our country

Although the average length of

Exciting travel deals

32

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

FEATURE

Writer: Dr Glynnis Vergotine, Wits Real

A mapping framework for jobs, occupations and qualifications in the Public Service

Within the Public Service there are many systems, policies and tools which are geared towards skills planning and anticipation.

Recent research conducted by the University of Witwatersrand’s Centre for Researching Education and Labour (Wits REAL) on behalf of the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) found that it was crucial to understand the various classifications systems and to bring them together in a coherent manner, resulting in the development of a mapping framework.

One could well ask, why the need to develop yet another approach, framework or guideline for skills planning when there is already a plethora in place – some of which are being used and considered to be effective? The research sought to understand what the PSETA could do to assist the Public Service in skills planning and within that context, further understand occupations

A

better within the existing labour t the conclusion of the

that the management of human

human resource development

Service Compliance

resources in the Public Service

(HRD) and human resource

and Human Resource

needs to adapt to the agile,

management (HRM) is not only

sought to assist the authority in

Convention organised by the De-

changing environment to realise

key to building skills but also to

navigating and better under-

partment of Public Service and

the objectives of the National

the planning of skills needed so

standing the nexus between

Administration in February 2023,

Development Plan and govern-

as to build a state that has the

work, jobs and occupations in

the then Acting Public Service

ment priorities.

capabilities to deliver services

order to adequately support

Minister Thulas Nxesi pointed out

The effective management of

to the citizens of this country.

interventions in the Public Ser-

34

market context.

In essence, the research

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

vice by developing a framework that could assist in the process of mapping jobs to occupations and qualifications.

The framework would provide a holistic way of mapping jobs, occupations and qualifications using the existing classification systems as well as a broad range of information relevant to an occupation, including policy-based and governmentstipulated requirements and specific labour market and contextual information. A deeper and holistic understanding of an occupation can facilitate more focused considerations of the skills needs and appropriate

about linking jobs to occupa-

meaning of jobs, occupa-

to make broad recom-

interventions if required.

tions and qualifications.”

tions and qualifications;

mendations in line with

The research process focused

The research team also con-

to understand mapping

challenges on how to

on understanding the links con-

solidated a range of different

processes, and tools,

best approach the map-

ceptually and empirically. The

research activities to answer

when mapping jobs, oc-

ping process.

research report, titled; Jobs,

two broad questions: What are

cupations and qualifica-

qualifications and occupations

the links between jobs, oc-

tions (henceforth map-

Results

in the Public Service sector,

cupations, and qualifications?

ping process) for skills

What emerged from the study

explains that “conceptually, by

and how to align work tasks of

planning in the Public

was the realisation that skills

understanding the key features

a job, the core knowledge and

Service sector;

planning is difficult because of

of occupations because the

qualification of an occupation,

to develop a mapping

the mandates of various gov-

process of classifying jobs to

and the contextual needs of

framework that will in-

ernment departments in a large

occupations and qualifications

specific government depart-

clude the different factors

public service. The research

is not a technical one; and can

ments. They believed that it

and sources of informa-

pointed to contradictory goals

only be done within a frame-

could assist the departments

tion that a department

in mapping skills planning

work that takes into account

and the PSETA to identify more

needs to consider in

activities. This is due to the

the internal and external factors

nuanced skills needs and inter-

when mapping process;

Public Service having context-

that shape an occupation. Em-

ventions.

to map five occupations

specific needs, including

pirically, by developing a user-

As part of this process, six

of the ten priority occu-

Education, Health and Social

friendly mapping framework

objectives were selected to

pations identified by the

Services departments across

and using it to map a number

unpack the what and how,

PSETA;

different geographic and socio-

of occupations and from that

including:

to identify challenges in

economic conditions. As a re-

the mapping process; and

sult, public sector occupations

draw out some broader lessons

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

to briefly understand the

35

FEATURE

require nuances in how they define job requirements. The

cupations.

to be consulted and how?

formulation, implementation and ultimately not only the

methodology to strengthen

Public Services’s understand-

ing jobs or occupations, their

Mapping framework

The framework provides a skills planning. Whilst the map-

ing of demand-side dynamics

requirements for training (such

In view of what emerged during

ping framework will effectively

but also, and not unrelated, the

as qualifications or targeted

the various research processes,

assist the Public Service to plan

quality and efficacy of its edu-

professional programmes) and

the research team, with inputs

around skills, the information

cation and training supply-side

experience that moves away

from the PSETA, developed a

obtained through this process

interventions.

from standardised definitions

framework which is used to un-

will in turn assist the PSETA

and mapping processes for

derstand how to align occupa-

to decide on how to respond

skills, jobs, occupations and

tions and qualifications. Giving

decisively to the skills needs.

qualifications.

consideration to the main

In view of the huge challenges

What also emerges very

what and how questions, the

and demands facing the sec-

strongly is that the mapping

framework has been conceptu-

tor, the framework provides

process proves to be quite a

alised as a five-step process of

an opportunity for careful and

challenge as different depart-

mapping occupations. Hence,

systematic thinking through

ments use different job titles

when considering what skills

of demand so that supply can

which makes it hard to make

and resources are needed,

respond appropriately.

comparisons during such

public servants need to be able

This will include being more

processes. This then requires

to answer the following:

aware of the different classifica-

nuances are found in describ-

a careful analysis of the task

What are the key entry

tion systems, their intentions

description. A further factor

requirements for the job?

and uses, understanding quali-

impacting on the mapping

What are the core knowl-

fication systems, being in tune

process is the changing nature

edge and competencies

with labour market conditions

of work which creates difficul-

needed?

and the involvement of relevant

ties when mapping as these

What occupational

stakeholders. This mapping

changes are not fully reflected

progression is there for

framework requires public

in the occupational classifica-

labour in the occupation?

servants to have a more holistic

tion systems used by the Public

What are the labour

approach to mapping jobs, oc-

Service – the Occupational

market conditions for the

cupations and qualifications.

Classification System and the

occupation?

The use of the mapping

Organising Framework for Oc-

Which stakeholders need

framework could impact policy

The Wits Real has produced several research reports to support more effective skills planning by surfacing skills demand and supply challenges, and how the Public Service can respond more efficiently. As part of the centre’s partnership with the PSETA’s deliverables, it has produced a podcast series aimed at showcasing the findings of key areas of research, and reflecting and engaging with some of the key challenges confronting the Public Service. The podcasts can be found on the REAL YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ witsrealcentre4813/videos

36

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

OPINION

Wtiter: Busani Ngcaweni, National School of Government

BRICS building a 'pluriversal' world

B

North.

RICS is emerging as a key

refers to a world that is more

cultures, and harnesses them

bloc building toward a

multipolar, more inclusive, just,

to build a more humane com-

The convergence of historical

equitable, a world that respects

munity with a shared future.

and contemporary geopolitical

erse’, a term believed to be coined

the potential and contributions of

Such a world is the antith-

events has helped the BRICS

by the Colombian American

all countries to human progress.

esis of the idea of unipolarity,

member states (Brazil, Russia,

anthropologist Arturo Escobar

A 'pluriversal' world embraces

espoused and practiced by the

India, China and South Africa)

in a 2018 book on design theory,

knowledge from all sources and

major powers of the Global

gravitate toward the global

38

‘pluriversal’ world. ‘Pluriv-

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

centre stage, with some other countries of the Global South following a similar path. But the statements and speeches of BRICS leaders suggest the grouping is not anti-Global North and has no intention to "decouple" from it.

Nonetheless, BRICS has an agenda: to make the global governance system more inclusive and egalitarian, improve the global financial institutions and help build a multipolar order that more accurately represents the objectives and ambitions of the developing countries.

The BRICS members are playing an increasingly important role in global development cooperation, and have strength-

in the world dominated the

alleviation policies which have

prospects.

ened their financial instruments

agenda of the 15th BRICS

helped lift millions of people out

By doing so, the BRICS

while establishing distinct

Summit that was held in Johan-

of poverty and build a strong

countries stress the primacy

forms of South-South economic

nesburg, from 22 to 24 August

middle class.

of multilateralism in the global

cooperation.

2023. The discussions covered

BRICS has increased its

topics such as trade, develop-

Climate change

engagement with the Global

ment financing, infrastructure

Besides, in their pursuit of

the principle of common but

South, African countries in par-

development, skills develop-

sustainable development, the

differentiated responsibilities

ticular, based on its core values

ment, global peace, climate

BRICS members are moving

and respective capabilities

of solidarity, inclusivity and a

change, research and develop-

toward low-carbon, climate-

outlined in the United Nations

shared future.

ment, innovation, and scientific

resilient development, and

Framework Convention on

As a result, the Global South

advancement.

contributing their fair share to

Climate Change.

believes BRICS will use its

The success of this agenda

global emissions reduction,

It is because of these factors

considerable economic weight

has the potential to alter the

with China having the most

that, despite BRICS facing geo-

to spread the benefits of eco-

global economy, and lift millions

advanced adaptation and

political and economic hurdles

nomic development and help

of people around the world out

mitigation plans among the five

since its formation in 2009,

reduce their overreliance on

of poverty, which the Chinese

BRICS members. At the same

trade and investment among

former colonial powers.

leadership has succeeded in

time, they ensure that global

its members has significantly

Development that helps

doing within the country. Brazil,

decisions made to reduce

increased, with China be-

improve lives and livelihoods

India, Russia and South Africa,

emissions do not harm the

ing the bloc's main economic

of the majority of the people

too, have implemented poverty

Global South's development

driver. For instance, in 2022,

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

climate agenda and highlight the importance of adhering to

39

FEATURE OPINION

Developing Africa South Africa, as BRICS chair, believes that no country can develop in isolation. The country's leadership has been consistent in this regard, taking advantage of every available opportunity such as at the G20 Summit to further the development of the entire African continent.

Other BRICS countries also recognize this fact, and that is why they are working toward inclusive development. In fact, the BRICS leaders need to be commended for keeping the grouping intact for 15 years, intra-BRICS trade reached $162

common BRICS currency, so as

research results to businesses,

because despite the tectonic

billion, in spite of the impacts

to lessen their dependency on

which can already be seen in

political shifts in the world,

of the COVID-19 pandemic,

the US dollar and the euro.

the joint training programs with

they have maintained the

soaring inflation and other

But such endeavours will not

South Africa, which began after

momentum of development.

economic shocks.

be without challenges, such as

it assumed the BRICS chair in

These leaders have not only

According to the World Bank,

obstacles created by existing

February 2023.

managed the contradictions

BRICS represents 42% of the

global financial institutions. To

As some analysts and com-

among the BRICS members

global population, and ac-

overcome the challenges, the

mentators have said, this year

well and handled geopolitical

counts for 31% of global gross

BRICS members have to make

will likely see BRICS's biggest

issues with aplomb, but also

domestic product (in purchas-

policies after serious delibera-

impact on the global economic

respect one another's vision

ing power parity terms), more

tions and strategic manoeu-

and geopolitical landscape. A

for the organisation.

than the 30% of G7. No wonder

vring.

part of that impact will be the

Developing on the firm

BRICS is now considered one

The BRICS countries also

grouping's improved relation-

foundation of multilateralism,

of the most important economic

need to accelerate technol-

ship with Africa as is evident

BRICS looks set to be front

groupings in the world, and all

ogy transfer and transforma-

from the theme of the BRICS

and centre of the global quest

signs show it will keep expand-

tion, because technology is

Summit in Johannesburg:

to build a 'pluriversal' world.

ing.

one of the main factors driving

“BRICS and Africa: Partner-

development. The transfer of

ship for Mutually Accelerated

*This article was first published

technology while protecting

Growth, Sustainable Develop-

on China Daily: https://www.

Also, the BRICS members have

intellectual property rights

ment and Inclusive Multilateral-

chinadaily.com.cn/a/202308/21/

been working on creating a

can help more profitably apply

ism”.

BRICS currency

40

WS64e29a75a31035260b81d2d5.html*

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

FEATURE

Writer: More Matshediso

Professionalisation of the Public Service equals improved service delivery P rofessionalisation of the

ethical culture in the Public Ser-

said.

Public Service is essential

vice to encourage professionals

She said

to ensure proper manage-

in government to work freely

SAICA

ment of public funds, which in

without intimidation and make

ensures that

turn will have a positive impact

decisions guided by principles

its mem-

on service delivery.

rather than personal gain.

bers in the

This is according to Natashia

“Professsionalism in the Public

public sector,

Soopal, the Executive for Ethics

Service means conducting one-

including as-

Standards and Public Sector

self with responsibility, integrity,

sociate general

at the South African Institute

accountability, and excellence.

accountants,

of Chartered Accountants

It means communicating ef-

chief financial

(SAICA).

fectively and appropriately and

officers, middle

SAICA is South Africa’s pre-

always finding a way to be

management, and

eminent accountancy body and

productive,” explained Soopal.

accounting techni-

is widely recognised as one of

She believes that profes-

cians play part in

the world’s leading accounting

sionalisation can also support

the profession-

institutes.

government’s consequence

alisation of the

It provides a wide range of

management, continuous

Public Service.

support services to more than

professional development and

“Some of our

50 000 members and associ-

training provided by profes-

members in

ates who are chartered ac-

sional bodies.

municipali-

countants, as well as associate

“An ethical environment sets

ties are

general accountants and ac-

the stage for professionals to

driv-

counting technicians. Some of

demonstrate their commitment

ing the

its members work in the public

to public service, gaining the

profes-

sector.

trust and confidence of the

sionalisa-

The institute also promotes

community they serve,” Soopal

tion initiatives and

42

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

we provide them with support

Soopal urges government to fast

irregularities process.

ensuring that finance profes-

and guidance to improve their

track professionalisation of local

Maluleke further noted that

sionals act in the best interests

teams. We have member struc-

government finance depart-

despite the salary cost of fi-

of the public,” she added.

tures comprising national public

ments.

nance units amounting to

She also called on those who

sector committee and regional

In her presentation at the

R10. 75 billion, municipalities still

consult in the public sector to

public sector committees, which

2021/22 Local Government

required the assistance of con-

exercise professional compe-

oversee the implementation of

Audit Outcome to the Standing

sultants to support them with

tence and due care to ensure

the initiatives,” she said.

Committee of the Auditor-Gen-

financial reporting due to lack of

that they provide value and

SAICA also provides training

eral, Auditor-General Tsakani

skills and vacancies.

contribute to improved public

courses to empower its mem-

Maluleka noted that “local gov-

She said payments to consult-

finance management.

bers and their teams, especially

ernment has been characterised

ants amounted to R1.6 billion

Soopal said the Auditor-

on financial management, audit

by dysfunctional municipali-

(R1.36 billion in 2020/21) which

General of South Africa (AGSA)

readiness and compliance

ties, financial mismanagement,

is 13% of the total financial re-

is SAICA’s key stakeholder in

standards through workshops.

council and administrative insta-

porting cost of R12. 36 billion.

the public sector because it also

bility, and crumbling municipal

Furthermore, Maluleke noted

identifies potential risks in the

infrastructure.

that Chief Executive Officers

sector that SAICA needs to ad-

A need to professionalise local government

“This leads to deteriorating

(CFOs) vacant positions were

dress or advocate for improve-

standards of living and service

at 22% whilst CFOs spent an

ment, such as skills.

Although SAICA is not a public

delivery failures, resulting in

average of 49 months in their

In recent months, Soopal

entity, Soopal said it works with

service delivery protests. I firmly

positions. The vacancies and

facilitated the SAICA-AGSA

all spheres of government, add-

believe that service delivery

instability in leadership within

2021/22 Local Government Au-

ing that they recently noticed

improvements will be ena-

municipalities and finance units

dit Outcomes Session to allow

that there was more work

bled by capable, accountable

also contribute to the challenges

members to engage and interact

and citizen-centric municipal

in local government.

with the AGSA and other stake-

needed to be done in local government.

leadership delivering on their

holders.

In order to create an

mandates to improve the lives of

ethical environment that

ordinary South Africans.”

Professional workforce

supports professionals in

She identified that there was

In response to this, Soopal said

does not come without chal-

local government, SAICA

The work that SAICA does to help improve the Public Service

a lack of proper management of

local government can address

lenges. Key to this is bureau-

recommends several key

available funds, which exerted

these challenges by ensur-

cracy and red tape.

steps that should be followed,

pressure on local government’s

ing a professional and ethical

“Dealing with government

including leadership commit-

finance thereby reducing its

workforce.

officials can often involve

ment, supportive policies and

service delivery potential.

“By cultivating a highly skilled

navigating complex bureaucratic

procedures, and ethical guide-

This is evidenced by local gov-

workforce, local governments

processes and encountering

lines and training.

ernment incurring fruitless and

can improve audit outcomes,

lengthy delays. To address this

With local government audit

wasteful expenditure amount-

financial management practices,

challenge, patience, persistence,

outcomes continuing to be

ing to R4.74 billion as well as

and service delivery,” she said.

and maintaining accurate re-

negative due to poor financial

incurring an estimated financial

“While professionalisation is

cords of all interactions can also

planning, inadequate financial

loss of R5.19 billion through

crucial, an ethical environment

be beneficial. We also believe in

controls, skills and capacity,

non-compliance and fraud as

is equally vital. It nurtures and

building relationships in order to

governance and accountability,

identified through the material

sustains professionalism,

mitigate challenges,” she said.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

43

OPINION

Writer: Brite Nemaranzhe

Go beyond Excellence: utilise M&E I

f Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is done right, it can be a potent catalyst for change.

If we can measure what we build, we can

evaluate what we are doing right or wrong and take decisions to build better. M&E is fast becoming a necessity to ensure that institu-

tions and individuals across the world operate effectively and efficiently.

The drive for M&E is motivated by the desire to overcome challenges that confront the world, and government’s establishment of the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) in 2009, is an example of a country intent on demonstrating the accountability that our constitution binds us to.

44

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

opment Plan. Therefore, per-

there were over 140 000

underperformance.

ment communication system

formance measurement of any

communication outputs that

The use of a communications

functioned without a cen-

priority or programme calls for

reached almost all of South

measuring tool will bolster the

tralised performance M&E

scientific and reliable method-

Africa’s adult population on

nation’s fight against predeter-

system that helps us track our

ologies that will help determine

COVID-19 alone. These outputs

mined socio-economic issues.

performance. This situation

what works and what needs

were achieved through a

M&E is certainly a dependable

was far from ideal as individual

further refining.

limited but comprehensive list

means to fortify service delivery

departments relied on their

Towards the end of 2019,

of communication indicators in

and communication excellence.

in-house methods of monitor-

Cabinet called for a dashboard

the G-CET. While M&E sets the

Once fully entrenched across

ing and accountability. These

that reports on communication

planning and reporting frame-

the entirely public service, the

fragmented systems operated

performance within the public

work, Media Content Moni-

G-CET stands at the door of

in silos and lacked the ability to

sector, and the Government

toring and Analysis provides

becoming a global trend-setter

share challenges or successes.

Communication and Informa-

the outcomes of how various

in communication M&E.

For many years, the govern-

The introduction of M&E

tion System carefully con-

government-related issues

brought about a sea change,

ceptualised the Government

were covered by the media, and

and ushered in an era of

Communication Excellence

research highlights perceptions

heightened accountability. It

Tool (G-CET) to measure com-

of government services.

inculcated a culture of per-

munication efforts, outcomes

As an M&E tool, the G-CET

formance excellence, and

and impact.

serves as a spotlight that al-

provided a concrete way to

Since its inception, the G-CET

lows different programmes and

measure campaigns and com-

has seen improvements in key

functions to shine. The idea

munication impact.

performance areas such as the

is to deliberately set SMART

M&E is not just a nice to

existence and implementation

(specific, measurable, achiev-

have; it has become a key com-

of communication strategies,

able, relevant and time-bound)

ponent in the realisation of stra-

and regular reporting has

indicators to monitor every

tegic priorities such as those

begun to show encouraging

area of interest, thereby allow-

Government Communication

in the 2019 – 2024 Medium

trends and upticks in perfor-

ing government to uplift and

Monitoring and Evaluation

Term Strategic Framework and

mance.

replicate success while taking

Deputy Director at the GCIS. You can

ultimately the National Devel-

Between 2020 and 2022,

corrective action on areas of

contact him on 078 659 4703,

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

*Nemaranzhe is a

45

Writer: More Matshediso Images: Kabelo Chabalala

FEATURE

Mentoring young boys to fight against GBVF G

rowing up without a father

Pretoria to nurture young boys and

whom] are fatherless, like myself.

masculinity have healthy rela-

has motivated Kabelo

their masculinity to ensure that

Often, boys and men tend to

tions and engagements with girls

Chabalala from Pankop in

they become non-toxic members

blame the absence of their

and women in their lives. If we

of society as they grow older.

fathers for their misbehavior, in-

leave a boy child out in our ef-

Chabalala believes that this

cluding being rebellious, abusive

forts to end the scourge of GBVF,

can contribute to combating the

in relationships and not adher-

they potentially become perpe-

scourge of Gender-Based Vio-

ing to basic morals. YMM exists

trators when they grow up,” said

lence and Femicide (GBVF).

to help stop that,” explained

Chabalala.

Chabalala established the

Chabalala.

The idea to start the organisa-

Young Men Movement (YMM) in

His own experience of growing

tion dawned on him while he

2016, to mentor young boys who

up without a father made him

was studying towards a Diploma

need guidance while navigating

understand the challenges that

in Journalism at the Tshwane

through life, especially without

many young boys face, including

University of Technology.

their fathers’ support.

peer pressure, lack of guidance

The YMM started with just four

“I want to help boys, especially

and support.

boys from Pankop during its first

The organisation’s objectives

session, but the number grew to

include teaching boys that they

approximately 40 boys per year

those who are in the villages and [some of

are not entitled to a

over the years as it recruited

girl’s body, and that

more boys from neighbouring

they should not force

villages, including Mmametlhake,

anyone to do things

Phake and Nokaneng.

that they are not willing

More than 600 boys have directly benefitted from the

to do.

“Boys

organisation since its inception.

who un-

It consists of boys of school go-

derstand

ing age with the youngest being

healthy

nine years old. Once the boys finish matric, they exit the group to make space for new members.

46

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

During the organisation's

have also improved their overall

to shape their dreams,” said

Unfortunately he passed on in

bi-weekly sessions, members

performance in school and some

Chabalala.

2017 ,” he said.

discuss various topics, includ-

of them are members of the

“I do not do all the work by

Chabalala is also the author

ing the challenges that they face

representative council of learners

myself. I have a team of friends

of A Journey from boyhood to

in life, masculinity, GBVF, their

in their schools.

and family who support my work,

manhood, a masculinity memoir

future plans, and career and life

Additionally, YMM has a yearly

and they are experts in different

that he published in 2022 to tell

goals. The sessions are held in a

calendar that incorporates na-

fields, including clinical psychol-

a story about how growing up fa-

car garage at Chabalala’s home.

tional and international themes,

ogy, social work and motivational

therless awakened the great and

“I also bring them books to

and hosts recreational activities

speaking,” he said.

bold man that he has become.

read, especially those written by

and trips around Gauteng to

Although the organisation has

women because I want them to

ensure that the boys do not get

never received any funding, Cha-

For more information

learn how emotions and feelings

bored by just sitting in sessions

balala and his team always buy

about YMM or to order the

are expressed. Many boys strug-

and talking.

food and snacks for the sessions.

book, you can reach

gle to express their emotions and

“We have travelled to soccer

Having conversations with the

Chabalala on

lack emotional intelligence,” he

stadiums, among other places,

boys also helped Chabalala deal

0723716266, or on

explained.

and often, the trips were first

with his childhood traumas.

time experiences for many boys.

“I started to forgive my father

Facebook: Kabelo Chabalala

These exposes them to the

for being absent in my life when I

Twitter: @KabeloJay

world of possibilities and helps

started interacting with the boys.

Positive results Chabalala added that the boys

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

Instagram: @Kb_the_village_boy

47

FEATURE

Writers: Sihle Manda

TIKZN doing its bit

to attract investment F

or Trade & Investment Kwa-

tor reach ranges from agriculture and

Zulu-Natal’s (TIKZN) Innocent

agro-processing to mining, among

Hlongwana, there is nothing as

others.

rewarding as seeing a small, medium

“We have a lot of projects in the

and micro enterprises (SMME) reach

Oceans Economy, and in manufactur-

its full potential.

ing and mining. We also try to disperse

Speaking to Public Sector Manager

investment to rural areas where there

magazine, Hlongwana who is the

is a need for investment,” he stressed.

entity’s general manager for invest-

TIKZN is executing its mandate of

ment promotion said that they help

promoting the province as the invest-

small businesses grow using various

ment destination of choice with im-

ways, including pairing those in need

maculate precision.

of funding with sponsors.

This much is evident in various

“We also assist local business-

projects it has, over the years, seen

people who have projects, we are

go from ideas on paper to successful

able to develop their projects to a

implementation and conclusion.

stage at which they can get funding.

TIKZN, an entity of the KwaZulu-Na-

Sometimes you find that people have

tal Department of Economic Devel-

projects but they do not have an

opment, Tourism and Environmental

investor – we play the role of match-

Affairs, is an inward investment promo-

making,” explained Hlongwana.

tion agency, established to promote

Hlongwana joined the organisation

the province as an investment destina-

in 2011. His unit is responsible for

tion and to facilitate trade by assisting

securing foreign direct investment

local companies access international

for KwaZulu-Natal, to support employment creation and

The entity is also responsible for

promote the growth

driving export trade, through the

of the provincial

identification of new markets for trade,

economy.

the facilitation of export deals, and

The entity’s sec-

48

markets.

the development of export capacity

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

within the province. It ensures

ity Hills Eco Estate in Margate,

“It builds the confidence of

that this was done in compliance

the retention of businesses and

which was expected to offer

investors who have an appetite

with rules and regulations.

provides support for companies

significant economic boost to the

to invest here because they can

“There is a need for govern-

seeking to expand their opera-

Ugu District. The development

see examples of projects that

ment departments and agencies

tions.

will comprise over 25 ameni-

have been implemented suc-

like us to fully understand and

In April 2023, the entity

ties, 600 housing units, a hotel

cessfully and [that] there was

have a knowledge of what is re-

revealed that due to global eco-

and create 1 000 jobs. The other

partnership support in terms of

quired of us. Our role as TIKZN

nomic downturns caused by

project was the R500 million

government agencies, govern-

is to support them, unblock red

the COVID-19 pandemic and

Renishaw Coastal Precinct in

ment departments and munici-

tape and link them with the

adverse events that shook inves-

Scottburgh.

palities,” he said.

municipalities,” he said.

tor confidence in the province,

eThekwini district also re-

The partnerships, he added,

In its 2021/22 annual report,

fulfilling the mandate of promot-

ceived investment pledges in the

were critical to ensuring that red

the agency revealed that it had

ing the province as a premier in-

renewable energy, manufactur-

tape and other blockages were

successfully committed new

vestment destination had proven

ing and agriculture sectors from

reduced.

investment projects valued at

challenging.

ARTsolar, Defy, and RCL Foods/

“These partnerships also

R8.331 billion during the preced-

Rainbow Chickens, amounting

make sure that investors work

ing 12 months.

to R108 million, R288 million,

with communities to create job

These investments, it said, had

The agency has played a critical

and R620 million, respectively.

opportunities and participate in

the prospect of creating more

role in facilitating investment

At the time, the TIKZN an-

procurement opportunities for

than 3 182 employment opportu-

pledges made at the 2023

nounced that the province was

SMMEs,” he emphasised.

nities. In addition, the organisa-

instalment of the South Africa

poised to benefit from collective

Investment Conference (SAIC)

investments of nearly

Red tape

– an ambitious plan to attract

R1.4 billion in the province's

The SAIC has made it a lot

during the course of the financial

R1.2 trillion investment into the

special economic zones, specifi-

easier for KwaZulu-Natal to be

year.

country over five years launched

cally the Dube TradePort and

“taken a bit more seriously” as

Over that period, TIKZN’s rand

by President Cyril Ramaphosa

Richards Bay Industrial Develop-

an investment destination, he

value increase in the turnover

in 2018.

ment Zone.

said.

of the province’s existing and

Investment pledges

tion assisted a range of exportready and registered companies

“These projects, for example,

The entity, he said, had to be

developed exporters' assistance

nabis initiative in the province

are going to have a huge impact

pragmatic in its interventions.

amounted to more than R102.35

is one of the companies that

in terms of job creation. We have

“There is now an understand-

million.

pledged to invest in the country’s

also seen that they are produc-

ing that there are issues that

In accordance with the Kwa-

economy. It announced plans to

ing quite a number of SMMEs,”

you cannot run away from if you

Zulu-Natal Economic Recovery

develop and operate a world-

Hlongwana said.

have to do things like conduct-

Plan, the organisation facili-

class R121 million hemp process-

Quizzed on the importance

ing an environmental assess-

tated R611.3 million in company

ing facility. The investment was

of the projects and what these

ment. We will advise and make

expansion projects and provided

expected to generate 1 200 jobs

mean for the investment outlook

sure that we fast-track those

strategic support interventions to

in the uMgungundlovu District.

for the province, he explained:

processes so that they do not

130 companies in distress, result-

“It is very important for us as

take longer than they should.

ing in no fewer than 6 323 new

province include the construc-

the promoters of investment to

While there is need to reduce

and retained jobs from existing

tion of the R800 million Seren-

showcase this success.

and cut red tape, it was critical

businesses.

Tri-Medi Canna, a medical can-

Other investments made in the

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

49

Writer: More Matshediso

FEATURE

South African wine industry boosts the economy

ProudlySA CEO Eustace Mashimbye (centre) with officials from his organisation.

T

he South African wine

buyers and discerning consum-

of wine per year. The wineries

retain the jobs that the industry

industry has made an

ers.

also harvest 1.2 million tonnes

has created.

undeniable mark in the

It was also aimed at creating

of grapes every year, and 50%

He also called on consum-

international market through wine

an environment where up-and-

of these wines are exported,”

ers representing the hospitality

production and the wines are

coming wine brands could gain

explained Mashimbye.

industry, franchises, wholesales

revered around the world.

exposure and forge connections

He added that there are about

and retails to prioritise locally

This was said by Proudly

with key stakeholders, including

2 778 farmers who cultivate

produced wines when purchas-

South African (Proudly SA)

wine enthusiasts.

about 92 000 hectares of land,

ing stock for their establish-

Chief Executive Officer Eustace

Furthermore, the expo empha-

and the wine industry contrib-

ments.

Mashimbye during his address

sised the significance of foster-

utes R55 billion to the country’s

“When the demand of their

at the second Local Wine Expo

ing innovation in the industry

gross domestic product.

products increases, they will be

held in Johannesburg recently.

and its profound impact on job

Mashimbye noted that in 2019,

able to grow their business and

The expo provided a plat-

creation.

the industry directly and indi-

create more job opportunities

form for 30 local winemakers

“There are currently 542

rectly employed 269 000 people

for locals. Statistics show that

to showcase their exceptional

wineries in the country that

in the country. He urged citizens

South Africa accounts for half

products to the media, retail

produce about 824 million litres

to buy local wine brands to

the tonnage of wine that Africa

50

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

produces, making it Africa’s

nect with retail buyers, the expo

largest wine producer and

plays a vital role in facilitating

eighth-biggest wine producer in

distribution partnerships and

the world,” he said.

expanding market reach.

Women empowerement

wants to make sure that anyone

About 70% of the wines at

sion chooses a locally made

the expo were women-owned

product.

brands, and at least half of the

“Among the benefits of buying

traders sold out their stock by

locally produced goods and ser-

the end of the expo.

vices is that unemployed youth

Mashimbye said Proudly SA who makes a purchasing deci-

Mahimbye expressed disap-

will also be able to acquire

pointment at the fact that

much-needed skills in various

South Africa’s unemployment

sectors as they get employment

rate is still above 30% and

opportunities. Localisation also

among the highest in the world.

contributes to economic growth

“It is our collective responsibil-

of the country,” he said.

ity to ensure that the unemploy-

Proudly SA Board Chair-

ment rate goes down because

person Howard Gabriels said

women and youth are mostly

the organisation's campaign is

affected by this. As South Afri-

primarily driving consumers in

cans, we must support locally

the country to buy local brands

produced wines in order for

and products.

more women and youth to be

“It is important to build rela-

employed,” he added.

tions with other organisations.

With the majority of the wine

When we work together we are

brands that were exhibited at

able to be effective and suc-

the expo being women-owned, Mashimbye believes that if they

do not have a market to sell that

“We believe in the power of

ceed. Because if your brand

product because you will prob-

buying and supporting local

succeeds in selling more wine,

ably have to shut the business

brands for job creation, and we

are supported, women will be

we know there are thousands of

down and that could lead to

are delighted by the distance

able to employ more women.

families that will be able to live

more job losses and unemploy-

this expo has carried us towards

“This representation high-

and survive,” he said.

ment in the country,” she said.

reaching our goal,” she added.

lights the remarkable strides

Proudly SA Chief Market-

Moreover, she said by provid-

One of Proudly SA's core of-

made by women in an industry

ing Officer Happy maKhumalo

ing a platform for the winemak-

ferings to member companies is

historically dominated by men

Ngidi described the expo as an

ers, the campaign not only

access to market opportunities.

and provides an empowering

amazing access to market op-

showcased the unique flavours

Local wine brands dominating

platform to foster inclusivity and

portunities for locally produced

and diversity of the country

the retail space will preserve

equality,” he said.

wines.

but also created opportunities

the value chain, help keep and

By providing a space for these

“It is good to have a product,

for economic growth and job

create jobs that South Africa

emerging wine brands to con-

but it defeats the purpose if you

creation.

desperately needs.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

51

Writer: More Matshediso

GROOMING AND ST YLE

Wear your South African

Story this Heritage Month O

* Prices correct at the time of publishing.

1

ne of the ways to tell South

Clothing items

African stories

In the spirit of Heritage Month, here are some beautiful pieces of South African

in a contemporary set-

brands redefining heritage that Dhlamini recommends:

ting is through fashion,

1. Seven Colours Coat Dress: Ezokhetho – R8 900.

and local designers and

2. Nqina Asymmetric Maxi: Ezokhetho: – R9 660 (excluding gloves) .

brands are coming to

3. The Queen Dress: www.imprintza.com – R6 500 (online).

the party by redefining

4. EmaSwati Dress: www.thebemagugu.com – R8 500 (online).

the country’s heritage.

5. ilanga knitted dress: www.munkus.co.za – R10 000 (online).

This is according to the

6. River Kimono: www.mantsho.com – R17 000 (online).

founder and creative director of Ezokhetho,

2

Mpumelelo Dhlamini.

Instead of being confined by celebrating our heritage on Heritage Day or Month, Dhlamini reckons that we can now wear our stories and heritage with pride daily – both at work or for leisure.

story in celebration of Heritage

“Local brands such as

Month.

Ezokhetho, Imprint, Thebe

A nice statement kimono or

Magugu, Munkus, Sindiso

two is a must, especially for

Khumalo and Mantsho, among

brunch, a cute sip and paint or

others, have made this pos-

a casual date.

sible. We see some growth in

Dhlamini refers to pink as the

pride when it comes to cel-

new black.

ebrating and acknowledging

“This season we are seeing

who we are,” added Dhlamini.

pink in many shades because

In this edition, Dhlamini

of Barbie. We are also seeing

shares tips on how women

a “whiff” of the 1990s coming

can wear their South African

through, especially with denim.”

52

3

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

4

Accessories For accessories, Dhlamini said bold chunky minimal pieces are the way to go, especially when pairing them with clothing pieces with deep colour tones.

7. Styled by Thobeka Mbane for Kgomotso Neto (OPPO).

8. By Lovisa Jewellery.

9. Kirsten Goss Earring style by Noentka Khumalo for Ezokhetho.

BAGS 10. Seven Colour Ostrich Feather Tote: Ezokhetho – R2 500.

11. Half-Moon Hand stitched leather Bag: St_Reign – R1 900.

6 5 7

Fragrances With regards to fragrances, Dhlamini advises that you go for something that has notes that eases you into the spring season, like Jo Malone’s

9

Wood Sage and Sea salt.

“If you are looking for something a little sweet but elegant, I would recommend the Salvatore Ferragamo:

8

Signorina Eleganza – a fragrance I am currently using, or go for a clas-

10

sic Dolce & Gabbana: The One.” 12 Dolce & Gabbana: The One 13. Jo Malone: Wood Sage & Sea Salt

11

14. Signorina salvatore ferragamo

* Prices correct at the time of publishing.

eleganza.

12

13

*Dhlamini is the Founder and Creative Director of Ezokhetho, an

Rise, House of Nala, Koop Studios, FIASA, Virgule and online www.

African clothing brand that has inoculated the combination of light-

ezokhetho.com

hearted African pop style that is steeped in a new kind of elegance.

You can follow Ezokhetho on Twitter: @ezokhetho, Facebook: @

It is located at Victoria Yards in Johannesburg.

ezokhethoofficial, Instagram: @ezokhetho, Tiktok: @ezokhetho /

Its items are also available at various retailers including Africa

(personal: @leledhlamini (Instagram, twitter & tiktok)).

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

14

53

Writer: More Matshediso

FOOD AND WINE

Tripe and samp: a delicacy to enjoy this Heritage Month W

hile life keeps evolving and people change ways of living, one of the ways that South Africans

use to preserve their heritage and culture is through preparing traditional meals.

Depending on the occasion and based on preference, some use original recipes while others add a twist to enhance flavours.

This Heritage Month, Sinoyolo Sifo, famously known as Sifo The Cooking Husband to his social media followers, shares a recipe for ulusu or mogodu (tripe) and creamy samp.

Beef tripe Ingredients: •

2 kg beef tripe, cleaned and cut into cubes.

•

1 beef stock cube.

•

1 tablespoon (15 ml) garlic salt.

•

1 tablespoon (15 ml) medium curry powder.

54

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

•

Salt and pepper to taste.

Method: •

In a large deep pot, add beef

•

minutes, allowing liquid to

the meat to cook properly and

once it turns cloudy. Repeat

reduce until a thick sauce

prevent it from sticking to the

until the water runs clear,

forms.

pot or burning.

then drain.

cover the tripe.

• •

•

•

Season with salt and pepper.

tripe and enough water to

Place the pot over medium

Creamy samp Ingredients:

heat. Add enough water to

•

for two to three hours, or

cover the samp and cook

Add beef stock cube, garlic

Tip:

salt and curry powder.

When cleaning the tripe, avoid

samp.

until soft, stirring occasion-

Cover with a lid and cook

over washing it as this tends to

•

1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter.

ally.

over medium heat for two

dilute its natural flavour. Tripe

•

1 cup (250 ml) fresh cream.

hours, or until tripe is soft

contains fat, which becomes

•

2 tablespoons (30 ml) Hol-

add the butter, cream,

and tender, stirring every 30

oil when cooked. This can

sum solid vegetable oil.

Holsum solid vegetable oil,

minutes. (Add more water

cause the meat to burn before

•

1 teaspoon (5 ml) Aromat.

Aromat, powdered milk,

as and when needed).

it has actually cooked, so add

•

2 teaspoons (10 ml) pow-

parsley and cheese, and mix

dered milk.

well. Simmer for two to three

10g fresh Italian parsley,

minutes, or until the cheese

chopped.

is completely melted.

Remove lid and

small amounts of water

cook uncovered

throughout the cook-

for at least 30

ing process to allow

• •

2 cups (500 ml) uncooked

2 cups (500 ml) grated

•

•

Once the samp is cooked,

Season with salt and pepper.

cheddar cheese.

•

Salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: Serve warm and enjoy.

Method:

*This recipe can be used to

•

Add the samp to a large pot

serve six to eight people and

and rinse by submerging in

can be enjoyed with any type of

water and stirring with your

beverage, including traditional

hands. Discard the water

beverages.

Sifo is a pharmacist by profession, but

was published in 2022 and has already

guest presenter at the 2022 Woolworths

cookbook author and a social media food

at the Book Beyond Awards, and Best

You can follow and contact Sifo on

is a self-taught cook, award-winning

content creator with more than 140 000 followers on Instagram. His goal is to

break the gender stereotypes that surround male figures in the kitchen and encourage more men to cook.

His cookbook Sifo The Cooking Husband

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

won two titles, including Best Cookbook

Eat Out Awards.

family cookbook in South Africa at the

Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok: @sifo_

2022.

Email: sifothecookinghusband@gmail.

Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in

the_cooking_husband

He has appeared on various television

com

chefs and food influencers, and was a

co.za

shows, worked with many local celebrity

Website: www.sifothecookinghusband.

55

Writer: Hugh Fraser Images: Hugh Fraser

TRAVEL

Visit St Helena for an

adventure-filled holiday I

n December 2022, I made an

to Namibia which is itself one of

was used in the postal industry.

range you would like to attempt.

eight-day visit to St Helena

the most spectacular countries

It has largely overwhelmed the

Even though the island is small,

which encompasses Ascension

to visit on earth.

vegetation.

one does need a vehicle to get

Island and Tristan da Cunha.

Once a month the flight con-

The island is about 16 by 8

around. Petrol is R50/ litre but

There is currently only one

tinues to Ascension Island and

km and has extremely winding

fortunately you will not travel too

flight to St Helena once a week

back – a two-hour journey in

roads. One approaches James-

far.

from one city in the world –

each direction. Passing through

town, which settles in a deep

On our first Sunday morning,

Johannesburg – on a Saturday

the clouds, the island suddenly

gully on the north side; with its

Jamestown was deserted as we

morning returning the same day.

appears, rising dramatically and

charming Georgian architecture

waited for our 'tour guide' for the

It is a six-hour flight out and

vertically, making the volcanic

and the main street. Christmas

day, Edward Thorpe, to take us

takes four hours and 45 minutes

island very difficult to access.

was approaching and prepara-

on one of his renowned Sunday

to fly back. The flight takes two

It is exciting to arrive on the

tions were underway at the Con-

walks, this time to Lemon Valley.

hours to Walvis Bay to fill up

island. A mixture of dry desert

sulate Hotel run by the inimitable

He is part of the Thorpe family

and allow for any emergency re-

and sub-tropical vegetation. The

Hazel Wilmot, who hails from

that runs much of the retail on

routing or overflights.

biodiversity has been compro-

Botswana.

the island and they have been

The stark beauty of the Namib-

mised from the first settling of

The island is fairly mountain-

there for generations. The locals

ian desert is awe-striking as

the island by the Portuguese

ous, being a volcanic forma-

are referred to as Saints and

one lands, tops up and waits

in 1502 who brought fruit trees

tion, and there are 21 post box

there are about 4 200 people on

about 45 minutes before setting

and vegetables. The Dutch

walks on the island, ranging

the island.

out over the Atlantic for about

controlled it very briefly and the

from easy to quite difficult. They

Jacob’s Ladder was closed for

another three hours to St Helena.

British arrived in 1659. Later they

are very well catalogued and

renovation. It is a staircase that

This is a tempting look at a visit

brought New Zealand flax, which

you can choose the difficulty

climbs 699 steps straight up the

56

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

west side of the town. So we drove

libraries, the upshot of a weak

the steep and windy western

Internet connection. We used the

slope through Half TreeHollow

opportunity to explore the archive,

and parked at Rosemary Plan. The

and we found Daniel Lappin who

descent is quite steep, and I was

died in 1861 from delirium tremens.

concerned about the return trip.

At 818 metres, Diana’s Peak, this

You can arrange a boat trip but

is the highest point on the island.

the climb out is tough.

Whether you visit on an atmos-

Places to visit

pheric misty day or an inspiring clear day which allows views over

Another walk is that of Lot’s Wife’s

almost the entire island, you will

Ponds. One needs to drive the

visit more than once.

southern portion, in and out of the

The small but potent Museum of

windy roads and

St Helena, at the base of Jacob’s

eventually park in the Sandy Bay

ladder, packs information from the

district. It is a strenuous walk,

last 500 years.

passing the Gates of Chaos; espe-

Our last walk was the south

cially in the sun, so plan your day.

west walk, starting with a drive

Along the way you will see

along the central spine. Parking

masked Boobies, habituated birds

the car and then walking the last

that nest on the open rock and

couple of kilometres to catch the

Babies Toes that look and feel just

last pieces of the jigsaw puzzle,

like their namesakes.

capturing the island seen from dif-

Every day we pored over maps,

ferent angles.

available from the post office. In

A final swing past Longwood

the evening there was pouring of

House on our way to the airport,

wine, and eventually our plans led

Napoleon’s house and then back

us next to Napoleon’s grave. He

to the dramatic runway that had

was brought by the English in 1815

brought us a week earlier. I am

and he died in 1821. Nevertheless,

planning a return visit.

his sarcophagus setting is a very beautiful one.

Public Sector Manager • September 2023

About Hugh Fraser: follow the travelling

Back in town the library is well

architect and travel content producer at

stocked and there are two video

58. seconds on LinkedIn.

57