Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

JUNE | 2022

YOUTH JOB CREATION We speak to YES CEO, Ravi Naidoo

FUEL PRICE INCREASES How to save at the pumps

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP Meet our Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies

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Contents

JUNE 2022 | ISSUE 16

Editorial 12 | DWYPD Focussing on youth empowerment 14 | NYDA Young Patriots Programme 16 | Youth Entrepreneurship Why SA needs more entrepreneurs

24

24 | Youth Day Remembering the legacy 26 | SANParks Investing in conservation 30 | Operation Vulindlela Reforming key industries for economic growth 32 | National Railway Policy Full steam ahead

32

34

Features 10 | Addressing The Nation Building BRICS

28 | In Other News Mining Indaba recap

18 | Trailblazer Meet YES, CEO, Ravi Naidoo

34 | Regional Focus Limpopo powering ahead

22 | Women in Leadership Meet Hon. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister of Communication and Digital Technologies

36 | Financial Fitness How to save at the pumps

4 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

38 | Legal Matters Health and happiness in the workplace 40 | Upcoming Events June calendar

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EDITOR’S LETTER

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Letter from the Editor Welcome to the June edition of Public Sector Leaders (PSL)

In his letter to the country, written on 20 June - From the Desk of the Presidency - our President focused on this week’s 14th BRICS Leaders’ Summit which will be hosted virtually by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“The value of South Africa’s membership of BRICS has grown substantially since we joined this group of emerging economies 12 years ago. As we work to rebuild our country in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is much to be gained from our participation in BRICS and the relationships we have established with other member countries.

“At the outset, BRICS countries identified the strengthening of economic and financial ties as one of the key pillars of its cooperation. The countries have adopted the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership to increase access to each other’s markets, promote mutual trade and investment and create a business-friendly environment for investors in all BRICS countries. An important part of this strategy, particularly for South Africa, is to diversify trade so that more manufactured goods, rather than raw commodities, are traded,” – President Ramaphosa.

His Excellency recently presented the Presidency Budget Vote 2022/23 and participated in the AU Summit on Terrorism and Unconstitutional Changes of Government. President Ramaphosa made time in his busy schedule to meet The Elders, a group of independent global leaders founded by former President Nelson Mandela and Deputy President Mabuza addressed the Communal Land Administration and Tenure Summit.

This June edition of PSL celebrates youth as well as the environment and we look at 5 ways to celebrate Youth Day as well as zooming in on YES and the National Youth Development Agency. Our Trailblazer is YES CEO, Ravi Naidoo, and our Women in Leadership is Khumbudzo Ntshaveni (Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies). This month the Regional Focus is on Limpopo; In Other News we bring you a Mining Indaba Recap and our Financial Fitness regular deals with an issue that is uppermost in many budgets - ways to make the petrol price more bearable! We have a special feature on sustainability to celebrate the environment.

Whether you are in the public sector, the private sector, supply chain or an interested individual, PSL has something for you.

We hope you enjoy the read.

FIONA WAKELIN | GROUP EDITOR

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 9

ADDRESSING THE NATION

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Building BRICS President Ramaphosa’s letter to the nation on 20 June focused on this week’s 14th BRICS Leaders’ Summit which will be hosted virtually by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“The value of South Africa’s membership of BRICS has grown substantially since we joined this group of emerging economies 12 years ago. As we work to rebuild our country in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is much to be gained from our participation in BRICS and the relationships we have established with other member countries.

“At the outset, BRICS countries identified the strengthening of economic and financial ties as one of the key pillars of its cooperation.

The countries have adopted the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership to increase access to each other’s markets, promote mutual trade and investment and create a business-friendly environment for investors in all BRICS countries. An important part of this strategy, particularly for South Africa, is to diversify trade so that more manufactured goods, rather than raw commodities, are traded.

“Last year, over 17% of South Africa’s exports were destined for other BRICS countries, while over 29% of our total imports came from these countries.

These countries are therefore significant trading partners, and the value of this trade is continuing to grow. Total South African trade with other BRICS countries reached R702 billion in 2021 up from R487 billion in 2017.”

10 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

emergencies, with the virtual BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre having been launched in March which is a valuable development in our efforts to strengthen vaccine manufacturing capacity on the continent.

His Excellency went on to discuss tourism, which is recovering from the pandemic, and noted that, in 2018, 65% of tourist arrivals in South Africa came from other BRICS countries and now visitors from India and China are making use of our new eVisa programme.

“This week’s summit aims to usher in a new era for global development that is more inclusive, sustainable and fair. Through the reform of the multilateral system, including the United Nations, and by refocusing the attention and resources of the global

community on the sustainable development agenda, the BRICS group can support a sustained and equitable global recovery.

“The BRICS Leaders’ Summit is a valuable platform for South Africa to strengthen ties with its partner countries in support of our own growth and employment creation.

More than that, the summit is our opportunity to contribute to a better world, in which all countries have a better chance to recover from this pandemic and to flourish,” – President Ramaphosa n

Further good news is that the BRICS Bank (the New Development Bank) is expected to play an important role in providing financial and project preparation support for our country’s infrastructure and sustainable development projects. We have already received $5.4-billion to improve service delivery in critical areas.

The BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance have also been looking at the development of sectors such as agribusiness, aviation, financial services, energy, manufacturing and infrastructure.

President Ramaphosa mentioned that the collaboration among BRICS members in the area of health has placed South Africa in a better position to respond effectively to the current and future health

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 11

DWYPD

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

New legislation to further unlock youth empowerment programmes

A

new piece of legislation will look to improve the effectiveness of the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) in addressing the challenges faced

by South Africa’s youth.

The National Youth Development Agency Amendment Bill has been championed by the Department of Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, to optimise the service delivery of the NYDA. The NYDA focuses on economic development through youth entrepreneurship and employment and addresses development issues in all three spheres of government.

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES FACED BY YOUTH Youth represent more than a third of the South African population, yet they face numerous challenges – including a shockingly high unemployment rate, lack of equal access to education, poverty and crime.

To improve the lives of young people, the NYDA designed and implements policies and programmes to address the challenges unique to South African youth. The agency represents young people’s interests and ensures they are prioritised at the government level and strives to create more opportunities for the youth.

To ensure the NYDA continues to deliver this important service, the new legislation will shift the NYDA’s mandate further towards initiating, designing, and piloting socioeconomic programmes that empower youth. These programmes would be implemented by the NYDA, state agencies, the private sector organisations and civil society organisations.

12 24||Public PublicSector SectorLeaders Leaders| |June May 2022

Some of the key programmes include the National Youth Service, youth entrepreneurship development and support, youth advisory and information services, and the issuing of grants.

The legislation is an important milestone for youth development in our country, says NYDA Executive Chairperson Ms. Asanda Luwaca.

The amendment comes after extensive consultations were done with various stakeholders. During these consultations, young people proposed that the NYDA Act 2008 needed to widely address the challenges young people face, says Ms. Luwaca.

“We are excited at the changes that have been made. The current Act provides a legislative framework for the provision of the National Youth Service, support towards youth economic participation, and youth advisory and information services. As the Agency we would like to encourage all young people to be part of the consultative processes that influence policy changes in the country.”

HARNESSING THE POTENTIAL OF YOUTH Women, Youth and People with Disabilities Minister Maite NkoanaMashabane says the legislation has been tabled with Parliament.

Further legislation – including the Integrated Youth Development Strategy, as well as the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework of the National Youth Policy 2030 – is expected to be submitted to Cabinet soon.

“These will enable us to monitor the implementation of the National Youth Policy across all sectors. We

WHAT ARE THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS IN THE NYDA AMENDMENT BILL? The Amendment Bill aims to address the challenges that have arisen in implementing the National Youth Development Agency Act of 2008. The amendments to the legislation aim to ensure the agency functions more efficiently and is able to form better partnerships to build a skilled labour force and increase entrepreneurship support to create new opportunities for the youth.

The following are proposed in the Amendment Bill: • Aligning the NYDA with the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities • Allowing for the Cabinet member responsible for youth development to administer the NYDA Act instead of the President • Increase the visibility of the NYDA, especially in rural areas • Shifting the focus on the NYDA’s mandate to optimise and intensify service delivery. This would see a shift away from the current mandate of policy development, design and implementation of interventions, coordination and monitoring and evaluation. The amended mandate would focus on initiating, designing, and piloting socio-economic programmes that empower youth • Establishing NYDA offices at the provincial and local levels • Give clarity on the NYDA’s role in relation to other key role players within the youth development sector • Extending the term of office of the Board from three to five years and increasing the number of Board members from seven to ten • The establishment, at the discretion of the Board, of Board committees such as an Executive Management Committee; Human Resources and Remuneration Committee; Risk Committee; Development Committee; Social and Ethics Committee; Information Communication Technology Committee; Investment Committee; and Audit Committee.

must harness the potential of our youthful population. This includes the political will by government and captains of industry to ensure an integration of youth across all strategic sectors of our society, especially the economy,” says Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.

In the 2022/2023 financial year, the NYDA will aim to train more than 25 000 young people to be youth entrepreneurs. It will also provide 2 000 youth-owned enterprises with financial assistance through the NYDA grant programme. These enterprises will go on and create

6 000 jobs in the economy, said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.

In addition, 75 000 young people will be provided with skills development programmes to enable them to enter the economy and 10 000 young people to be placed in jobs through the National Pathway Management Network. n Sources:

www.nyda.gov.za www.upjournals.up.ac.za www.dbsa.org www.dwypd.gov.za www.gov.za www.youthcapital.co.za

June2022 2022||25 13 Public Sector Leaders | May

NYDA

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

The Young Patriots Programme Creating youth employment through volunteerism

S

outh Africa has one of the world’s highest unemployment rates, with many youths struggling to access the jobs market. But one South African government agency is changing this by creating volunteering opportunities for young people.

The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) was established to address challenges faced by South Africa’s youth. The NYDA focuses on economic development through youth entrepreneurship, decent employment through jobs programmes, social cohesion and pathways for economic emancipation through the National Youth Service, and the monitoring and evaluation of the integrated youth development strategy.

ADDRESSING YOUTH CHALLENGES The NYDA has developed an Integrated Youth Development Strategy that coordinates programmes that aim to alleviate poverty, generate urban and rural development, combat crime and substance abuse, and prevent social decay among youth.

14 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

The NYDA lobbies other organs of state to consider national priorities in respect of youth development.

The NYDA offers the National Youth Service Programme (NYSP), which is a government initiative aimed at engaging South African youth in community service activities. The programme looks to strengthen service delivery, build patriotism, promote nationbuilding, foster social cohesion and assist the youth to acquire occupational skills.

The programme is established on the basis that it’s necessary to take practical steps to increase youth volunteering because it helps youth break the poverty cycle by facilitating access to decent work and could assist in reducing the country’s high youth unemployment rate.

Youth volunteering can also help develop young leaders, foster social cohesion, encourage greater citizen participation, generate respect for equality,

and promote diversity. The NYDA aims to recruit 50 000 young people to the National Youth Service in the next year.

This will allow them to earn an income, learn skills and increase their employability and offer meaningful quality service to their communities.

ENSURING A COMMUNITY OF CARING YOUTH One such programme, run in a partnership between the NYDP and the Department of Arts and Culture is The Young Patriots Programme (TYPP).

This programme engages 300 young South Africans in activities aimed at popularising national symbols such as the national anthem and the national flag in schools, the audit of human treasures in communities as well as installation of flag poles. These activities are intended to build awareness of South African history and instil a sense of patriotism amongst the recruited patriots.

TYPP is aimed at educating the youth about history and heritage through practical experience.

Participants work as community

activists, engaging youth at schools and community libraries, to encourage social cohesion, nation-building and youth pride in their nationality.

The programme aims to create Youth Leaders who are aware of their country’s past, who are selfconfident, fearless and ready to serve their country. These youth will work towards educating others about their history, heritage and the role played by young people in the struggle for national liberation.

Ultimately, TYPP will create job opportunities for youth in the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector.

TYPP is open to candidates between 18 and 35 with a minimum of a Grade 10 qualification. Candidates may live in any South African province, and the programme runs for one year.

The programme was launched in 2016 by Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa.

"As government we encourage you to write your own stories.

Most people don't know beyond their grandparents. It's our duty to understand where we come from…

We need to know that as South Africans we are on a journey spiritually and intellectually to finish what we started."

The programme’s objective is to conscientise youth about our national identity and culture, said Minister Mthethwa.

He added that the energy of young people should be harnessed positively and progressively.

“We are on the right track to ensure that the youth of today are the caring youth. This is your space. Ensure that our culture and heritage is protected in your hands. And our culture is encapsulated in a very important value of our society - Ubuntu. It is our very essence as Africans - caring & sharing… We believe that you will go out with vigour to execute these tasks and deepen the national consciousness.”

For more information, visit www.nyda.gov.za n Sources

www.golearnership.co.za www.dac.gov.za

www.nyda.gov.za

www.southafricaportal.com

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 15

YOUTH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Five reasons why South Africa needs more young entrepreneurs

A

frica’s population is growing, and in the next three decades, 60% of the continent’s population will be under the age of 25. But in South Africa, this growing population of youth face one of the highest unemployment rates in the world.

However, South Africa’s youth also show a high propensity for entrepreneurship. More than half of all South African entrepreneurs are youth and encouraging more young people to start business interests could be the key to unlocking South Africa’s economic potential.

Here are five reasons why South Africa needs more youth entrepreneurs: REDUCING YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT South African youth are the most disadvantaged in the labour market. The latest Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South African showed that the unemployment rate was 64% for those aged 15 and 24. It stood at 42.1% for those aged 25 between 34. In comparison, the national rate stands at 34.5%.

Only around 2.5 million of South Africa’s 10 million young people aged 15 to 24 are active in the labour force. And those that are inactive say their primary reason is discouragement, in that they have lost hope of finding a job that suits their skills or in the area they reside. The antidote is for entrepreneurs to create their own employment, in the areas in which they live.

BUILDING THE INFORMAL SECTOR Young entrepreneurs working in the informal sector outnumber those in the formal sector. While historically disadvantaged communities often lack access to resources and education, their informal sectors offer an opportunity for young businesspeople to make a lasting difference. More than half of South Africa’s unemployed population live among the 22 million South Africans whose homes are in townships and informal settlements.

This means that entrepreneurial activity that impacts these areas is likely to have some of the most meaningful impacts, in areas that need it most.

16 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

uplifting them from the poverty associated with unemployment.

This amount almost doubled for entrepreneurs working in the formal sector. In addition, the job opportunities created by entrepreneurs also uplift others out of poverty.

CREATING MORE JOBS Not all entrepreneurs hire staff and those who are hiring staff tend to employ between two and four people.

Especially in the informal sector, entrepreneurs are not likely to hire ten or more people. This means that making an impact on unemployment through entrepreneurship requires largescale entrepreneurial activity and cannot rely on only a few business owners.

In addition, entrepreneurial activity in townships has been found to stimulate widespread economic activity.

Township entrepreneurs provide a vital network that sustains small businesses in the township economy, with almost half relying on other small businesses as key clients and in turn creating job opportunities.

TO ENCOURAGE OTHER YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS Young entrepreneurs receive the least support in terms of business development, with only around 15% of business development services directed toward youth.

This is even worse in rural or township areas, which often do not have traditional small business support structures. But the more youth who enter into entrepreneurship, the more likely there are to be programmes developed for this sector.

One such organisation is the Youth In Property Association (YIPA), which is focused on transforming the property sector by increasing the active participation of young people through its education, employment and entrepreneurship initiatives.

YIPA is a youth managed and driven organisation aimed at representing, protecting and advancing the interests of all youth within the property industry in terms of ownership, management and social development.

POVERTY ALLEVIATION Research has shown that young entrepreneurs can earn around R10 000 a month, immediately

But youth entrepreneurship has an even bigger impact on the communities in which these young people live. Youth unemployment can lead to socio-economic concerns such as poverty and hunger, and higher crime rates have been recorded among youth without employment. Creating employment thus has a positive impact on the individual, their family, and society as a whole.

Entrepreneurs are significant drivers of economic development and job creation in South Africa, potentially offering a solution to large scale unemployment.

To truly transform South Africa’s economy, the country needs more youth entrepreneurs to create a lasting impact on job creation and poverty alleviation.

This requires us as a society to encourage entrepreneurship as a career path, rather than as a last resort, and to provide these young people with the support they need to start enterprises. n Sources www.treasury.gov.za www.brandsouthafrica.com www.theconversation.com www.businesslive.co.za www.citiesalliance.org/ www.gemconsortium.org www.gibs.co.za www.statssa.gov.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 17

TRAILBLAZER

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Saying YES to youth job creation YES CEO, Ravi Naidoo

T

he Youth Employment Service (YES) is a 100% private sector-funded initiative which collaborates with business, government, labour, and other stakeholders to put thousands of young people into their first private sector job. We spoke to YES CEO, Ravi Naidoo, about the crucial issue of youth job creation in South Africa.

AS A SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MILESTONES OVER THE LAST 25 YEARS? I have been fortunate to be able to have an impact on some significant issues. All of these had an element of the right place, right time, and right team. In my twenties, in the labour movement, I was part of the team that restructured the Unemployment Insurance Fund to include domestic workers, and one million people benefitted. A few years later I was in the Cabinetappointed team that introduced the child support grant, which has seen an extra 16 million youth and their families benefit. When I joined the state, I was the lead executive for the establishment of South Africa’s official Green Fund. My favourite memory is when, as official DBSA convenor of the Health-sector Roadmap, I managed the stakeholder process that eventually changed the country’s disastrous HIV/ AIDS stance.

YOU JOINED YES IN NOVEMBER 2021. PLEASE DESCRIBE THE PROGRAMMES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE ORGANISATION. We approach the private sector to create jobs (either within their

18 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

organisation or via host partners that YES finds for them) for young people. In return, the private sector sponsor receives up to two levels on their B-BBEE scorecard and a positive social impact rating.

We are currently placing about 3 000 young people into jobs every month. YES kicked into action just before the COVID pandemic began - and has since created over 82 000 youth jobs.

As youth employment is defined as a social impact, corporations that work with YES can be certified for their contribution to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) strategies.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FOCUS AREAS OVER THE LAST SEVEN MONTHS? My first priority has been to ensure that youth in our programmes are getting a quality work experience, so I have made it a point to gather the right data and also meet youth and host partners directly.

We have massively increased our call centre capacity – in the past month or so we have called

70 000 youth, including many alumni from our programmes.

I’ve also been focusing on closer collaboration with corporate and host partners to enable job creation in future-facing industries, such as drones, coding, precision farming, environmental management, app-based logistics, etc.

Moreover, given the private sector exposure for most of the youth, we know that many of these young people will go on to do remarkable things in the future, both for themselves and the country’s economy.

THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DROPPED IN Q1. WHAT MORE CAN BE DONE TO ENSURE ITS CONSTANT, STEADY DECLINE? The country’s official unemployment rate improved marginally to 34.5%, but two in three young people aged between 15-34 are unemployed.

To shift the longer-term jobs trajectory, the government has to radically improve the quality of education in public schools (particularly the worst 50% of schools) and also undertake structural reforms in the economy to boost economic

growth. Without meaningful progress on that score, it will continue to be an uphill battle for the country.

At a macro level, the government has announced a critical package of reforms to unlock economic growth. These include restructuring Eskom and the country’s electricity system, auctioning spectrum to provide cheaper and more accessible data, restructuring our ports and rail network, and various red tape cutting to enable investment and job creation. These are necessary actions to take in the short term, but from which we will only reap benefits in the long term.

These reforms, much debated in recent years, now need to be implemented in practice.

In the immediate term, the focus needs to be on helping young people get into jobs today. This means making it easier for private companies to hire youth, while also offering incentives (such as the YES programme) to companies. We have found that private sector work experience makes a young person much more employable and better equips them to eventually start their own small business. In the

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 19

final analysis, a combination of private sector and taxpayerfunded interventions will be needed to support youth jobs, while economic reforms and the poor quality of public schooling is fixed.

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? My life’s purpose is to work with credible organisations and good people that want to have a positive and sustainable impact in the world. I prefer to adopt a more independent approach; hence it really doesn’t matter to me where the best ideas come from.

If an idea looks like it can work in practice and have a substantial impact, I will be happy to support it. I like what I do, and I like how I do it.

HOW HAS COVID IMPACTED YES? Although YES began operations in 2019, it really ramped up in the beginning of 2020. Despite the country shedding over two million jobs from March 2020 to the end of 2021, YES has been bucking this trend and has created over 82 000 work opportunities for youth. Over 2 200 private companies believe in this mission have signed on to co-create a future that works. If anything, the COVID-19 pandemic

I am always aware of how lucky I am to be doing what I do, and hence the obligation I achieve something meaningful for the country. YES has a fantastic board and many of the leading corporations, so I intend to put them to good use!

20 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

cemented YES’s message in the hearts and minds of our corporate partners and has become a catalyst for action.

More than this, globally and locally, the pandemic has encouraged investors and consumers to choose what they buy and who they buy from based on a company’s sustainability plans. Companies that are participating in YES can be seen

as good corporate citizens who are investing in the country’s future, which has also pushed us beyond B-BBEE solutions.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE? I like to have a clear vision and ensure there are competent staff and credible partners in place. My leadership style is meritocratic and collaborative, building an organisation based on meritocracy and letting senior staff have the space to make decisions and then also be held accountable for the results.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS WE SHOULD START AND STOP DOING IN SOUTH AFRICA TO TACKLE THE YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT CRISIS? Make radical changes to improve the quality of education in the worst 50% of schools, so that young people have the educational assets to truly change their futures is important.

Interventions that offer bang for buck and are explicitly designed for the execution capacity we have now (rather than for the capacity we wish we had) are crucial. This includes the fact that some stakeholders (even within the same constituency) are guaranteed not to cooperate with each other, and the country cannot wait for complete consensus.

Lessons must be learned from

disastrous experiments of the past, such as Outcomes-Based Education in the 1990s, which collapsed the public schooling system when it was realised too late that the global theory did not have the prerequisite actual teacher capacity in our government schools.

supporter of ESG and SDGs. As YES also works with many measurable ESG outcomes, YES can offer much more than just a B-BBEE benefit to corporations. This is an exciting journey for YES.

Also learn from programmes that have worked. From my own experience, I have seen enough stakeholders work well together to agree and implement a Health Roadmap to virtually solve the HIV/Aids crisis in 2008 (remember what a mess that was?).

Similarly, South Africa has emerged as a world leader on the renewables/global climate change agenda, as witnessed at the recent COP26 in Glasgow.

WHAT EXCITING PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE – BOTH PERSONALLY AND FOR THE ORGANISATION? I have recently been appointed to the National Planning Commission (NPC; where commissioners are part-time) and chair the Economy and Employment working group of commissioners.

I am hoping to support the important work the NPC is doing and forge partnerships between the state and the private sector (including the 2 200 corporate partners of YES) that can position South Africa well for the future.

As a “greenie”, I am a big

DO YOU HAVE A MESSAGE FOR OUR READERSHIP? As a country, we must be optimistic to see the opportunities and pragmatic to take advantage of them. In the end, the world does not owe South Africa anything.

South Africans – regardless of their background or politics – will have to work together to ensure we have a growing economy that can create jobs and generate taxes to pay for what we need. If we can do that, we may just stave off the looming catastrophe that youth unemployment represents to our young democracy. n

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 21

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Hon. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has a seat at the table H

onourable Khumbudzo Ntshavheni was always going to be a leader, it was just a question of which sector she would lend her passion and drive to. As it turns out, the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies has seen her career rise in both the public and private sectors, where she has been a stellar example to young women looking to make inroads as entrepreneurs and civil servants.

Born in Sibasa, in what was then the Transvaal province, just over a year after the student uprisings of 1976, the young Minister has received a lot of attention for being one of the youngest members in the executive.

Something she recognises, and is willing to leverage to the benefit of other young people, particularly young women. “What Khumbudzo being a minister at a young age and being a female does, is it inspires all the other young people who are female to aspire that it is possible to be in there (sic),” said the Minister, speaking to ITU News.

She is aware of how much influence she can have on empowering women and furthering the development goals which seek to bring more women into the economy. The opportunities need to be made available because the capabilities are already there: “If you can cook the supper, you can sit at the table, and you can decide what cutlery you use on that table.

For me, that’s what we are here for: to make sure that we create a table for women to sit at.”

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When she was just 14, Hon. Ntshavheni presented a case to President Nelson Mandela for making 16 the voting age for South Africans. Speaking to City Press, in 2019, the Minister joked: “I am sure my boss [President Ramaphosa] remembered it when he considered me for this role.”

After a stint as a junior lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA), Hon. Ntshavheni became the first female and the youngest South African to be appointed as the spokesperson of a Premier, when she served under Premier Ngoako Ramatlhodi in the Limpopo province. The Minister’s career in civil service continued in the Department of Local Government and Housing (Limpopo) and was followed by a position as Tourism Manager for Trade and Investment Limpopo from 2006 to 2007.

At the time of her appointment as the Municipal Manager for the BaPhalaborwa Municipal Council in April of 2008, she was the youngest Municipal Manager in the country, a position which she served in until November of 2010. “...age, gender and race have no bearing on my ability to achieve my set targets despite the obstacles,” the Minister told City Press.

Before making her way into politics, first as a Member of Parliament, then as a Minister in President Ramaphosa’s cabinet, the Minister had business interests in agriculture and the fast-moving consumer goods industry. She is the Founding Director and Chairperson of Nkho Trading, a “transport business with interests in property development”.

That experience made her an ideal candidate for Minister of Small Business Development, a position she held from 2019 until 2021, when she was moved to the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies. “...a product of SME. I take after my mother in this, and I have been active in the sector for a while,” said the Minister at the time of her appointment to the top post at the Department of Small Business Development. The Minister’s mother worked in the taxi industry and her father ran a general store, two sectors which will no doubt benefit from the progress in the licensing of spectrum which the Minister has made since her appointment. n

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BA Hons. Development Studies - Rand Afrikaans University (1999) BA Hons. Labour Relations - Rand Afrikaans University (1999) MBA - University of Bradford, United Kingdom (2008)

Sources www.gov.za www.news24.com www.timeslive.co.za www.ventureburn.com www.techcentral.co.za www.itu.int

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 23

YOUTH DAY

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Youth Day

Remembering the legacy of the youth who fought for liberation

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n 16 June each year, South Africans celebrate the contribution of youth to the liberation struggle. The day commemorates the Soweto youth uprising of 16 June 1976, which saw young people across the nation stand against the apartheid government’s education policies.

More than two decades after democracy, South Africa’s youth face many challenges. This annual anniversary offers a moment to reflect on the impact youth can have on their communities, and how they have shaped South Africa’s heritage.

Here are some commemorative sites youth can visit this month to be inspired to become change-makers: THE HECTOR PIETERSON MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM Hector Pieterson was a 12-yearold who was shot and killed by police during the June 16 uprising

24 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

in Soweto. He was the subject of a powerful photograph taken by Sam Nzima. The museum is located next to the Hector Pieterson Memorial in Soweto, in an area that has been declared a national heritage site.

The museum allows visitors to see important scenes from that fateful day, and includes testimonies, pictures and audio-visuals to tell the story of the young people who protested and died 16 June 1976.

THE APARTHEID MUSEUM The Apartheid Museum opened in 2001 to tell the story of the rise and fall of apartheid. The exhibits include film, photography and artefacts to illustrate the events and human stories that shaped South Africa’s history. A multi-disciplinary team of curators, filmmakers, historians and designers have assembled and organised the exhibits. Along with providing an insight into South

African heritage, the museum is a superb example of design, space and landscape, and offers a unique South African experience.

CONSTITUTION HILL Constitution Hill in Braamfontein, Johannesburg houses the Constitutional Court, but the precinct also offers a look into the hardships endured under the apartheid government. The site previously housed a prison, which held many anti-apartheid activists.

Known as The Fort, the notorious prison housed common criminals together with citizens who were had broken apartheid laws. Today, sections of the prison have been transformed into memorial centres and museums.

ROBBEN ISLAND Robben Island is best known for its prison which held political activists.

Nelson Mandela was held on the island for 18 of the 27 years he spent imprisoned. Robben Island was declared a National Monument in 1996, and a National Museum in 1997, and tells the story of those who fought for South Africa’s liberation and the hardships they endured under the apartheid regime. The museum tells the story of the human rights abuses endured by prisoners, as well as the strength of human spirit in overcoming adversity, suffering and injustice.

HEROES PARK Heroes Park in East London honours South Africa’s struggle heroes and celebrates the country’s cultural diversity. Hundreds of struggle icons – from poet and activist Dennis

Brutus to Nelson Mandela – are acknowledged on a granite Wall of Fame. The site also houses the Multicultural Man statue, sculpted

by Italian artist Francesco Perilli, which celebrates the history of the struggle and stands as a symbol of peace and humanity.

FREEDOM PARK Freedom Park, in Pretoria, celebrates South Africa's heritage by combining the country’s experiences and symbols to tell one coherent story. It is a centre of knowledge aimed at deepening the understanding of the nation.

The cultural institution houses a museum and a memorial dedicated to the many who contributed to South Africa's liberation. The museum tells South Africa’s story, from the dawn of humanity to the post-apartheid nation of today - a 3.6 billion year journey.

THE SOWETO UPRISING Protests started against an apartheid government directive, by the then Bantu Education Department, that Afrikaans should be used as a language of instruction in secondary schools.

The Bantu Education Act of 1953 ensured that black pupils received education sub-par to that given to white pupils.

The Black Consciousness Movement taught by Steve Biko and the formation of the South African Students Organisation saw many young people becoming conscientised to the struggle movement and expressing anti-apartheid sentiment. This led to a series of protests, which increased when Afrikaans was made a language of instruction.

On 16 June 1976, between 3 000 and 10 000 students peacefully marched in Soweto to demonstrate against the government’s directive. The students were marching towards Orlando Stadium, where a rally was to be held. However, along the way, the students were met by heavily armed police who fired live ammunition at the demonstrators. Hundreds of young people were killed.

STEVEN BIKO STATUE Steven Biko was the leader of the Black Consciousness Movement and his activism helped to empower black South Africans to reclaim their dignity. The movement was an important factor in raising political consciousness among the youth. In August 1976, at the height of the Soweto uprising, Biko was arrested and held in solitary confinement for 101 days. A year later, he was arrested in Port Elizabeth. He was severely beaten while in police custody and died on 12 September 1977. Biko’s legacy is commemorated with a statue outside the East London City Hall. n

In response, uprisings spread across the country and carried on until the following year. The uprisings led to international outrage and saw the liberation struggle’s numbers swell After democracy, 16 June was declared National Youth Day to honour the contribution of the youth in the liberation struggle.

Sources: www.brandsouthafrica.com www.creativefeel.co.za www.rekord.co.za www.apartheidmuseum.org www.gov.za www.sahistory.org.za www.sahistory.org.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 25

ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

SANParks

Investing in conservation through ecotourism

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ore than R370-million will be invested into improving tourist facilities at the Kruger National Park in the next three years, in the hopes of generating more income to support the essential conservation work carried out by the South African National Parks (SANParks).

BUILDING A TOURISMFRIENDLY OFFERING

The R370-million investment will include infrastructure upgrades and refurbishments at the Kruger National Park over the next three years. Among these projects are the renovations of more than 100 tourist accommodation units at various parks, as well as the rebuilding of the Letaba shop and Lower Sabie petrol station, which was also damaged by fire, and repairs to the Shingwedzi Main Building roof and viewing decks at Skukuza and Olifants Camp, which were damaged by termites.

Entrance gates at Pafuri, Punda Maria, Orpen, Phabeni and Numbi will also be upgraded, and a picnic spot, camping site and reception facility will be constructed at the Shangoni Gate.

Funds have also been allocated for the upgrading of some staff accommodation, the resurfacing of identified tar roads, and the regravelling of selected gravel roads.

Kruger National Park managing executive Gareth Coleman says the first phase of the programme will provide focus on improving the visitor experience. The Park annually sees around one million visitors.

However, with travel restrictions in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, the visitor numbers dropped dramatically in 2020 and 2021.

“The decline in tourist revenues under Covid-19 (sic) impacted our revenue but the need to maintain and upgrade our infrastructure is

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ever-present. The infrastructure programme will also help provide much-needed employment in the area,” says Mr Coleman.

But this is not the only investment SANParks hopes to channel into the park. The company, which manages South Africa's 20 national parks, has announced more than 100 potential new opportunities for public private partnerships (PPPs) in the next decade.

While these include operating the Table Mountain Cable Car and Cape Point, there are also several opportunities for running lodges in the Kruger National Park once the current concessionaire agreements come to an end.

In the last 20 years, SANParks has entered into more than 60 partnerships at various parks, which have contributed around R1.4-billion to SANParks and increased the value of infrastructure assets by R955-million.

SUPPORTING CONSERVATION EFFORTS THROUGH TOURISM Creating opportunities for investment in South Africa’s national parks is essential to support conservation efforts.

More than 80% of SANParks’ operating budget is self-generated, which means that its conservation efforts depend on successful and sustainable tourism operations.

National parks provide a home for the country’s most iconic species as well as recreational spaces for South Africans and international visitors. Protected areas can also play an important role in the development of rural economies.

To manage all of the national parks in South Africa, SANParks incurs operating costs estimated at around R1-billion. These operational costs are essential to the protection of wildlife and nature conservation – they fund wildlife rangers, infrastructure, visitor facilities and conservation efforts.

But the two aspects go hand-inhand: To generate these funds needed for conservation efforts, SANParks must continue to find ways to encourage tourism; and to ensure tourists visit the national parks, wildlife and species of national parks must be preserved. n

ABOUT SANPARKS SANParks is a leading conservation authority that works to create a sustainable national parks system that connects society. The public entity falls under the Department of Environmental Affairs and aims to create inclusive conservation in line with the National Development Framework for Sustainable Development.

Twenty national parks, across seven provinces, fall under the management of SANParks. These four million hectares of national parks represent more than two-thirds of South Africa’s statemanaged protected areas.

The National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act mandates SANParks to create destinations for naturebased tourism in a manner that is not harmful to the environment. SANParks is primarily a self-funding entity generating approximately 80% of its operating budget from its ecotourism business.

SANParks plays a significant role in the promotion of South Africa’s ecotourism but also invests heavily in socio-economic development. SANParks provides support to neighbouring communities and supports the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of South Africa through corporate social investment.

Sources

www.news24.com

www.blogs.elon.edu

www.sanparks.org

www.engineeringnews.co.za

www.statssa.gov.za

www.intechopen.com

www.tourismupdate.co.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 27

IN OTHER NEWS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Mining Indaba Paving the way towards a greener mining future

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frica is rich in natural minerals, which has made it home to a robust mining industry. But as the world grapples with reducing environmental impact, Africa will have to reconsider the future of its mines and mining methods.

This was the focus of the 2022 Investing in African Mining Indaba (Mining Indaba), which challenged African leaders and mining corporations to think about energy transition and transforming the continent’s mining sector.

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PROMOTING AFRICA’S MINING INDUSTRY The Mining Indaba, which has taken place for more than 27 years, is solely dedicated to the development of mining interests in Africa. The conference brings together visionaries and innovators across the entire value chain of the African mining industry. It is a gathering that allows for highimpact networking, deal-making, and pioneering discussions from influential leaders.

Under the theme of “Evolution of African Mining: Investing in the Energy Transition, ESG, and the Economies”, the Mining Indaba focuses on bringing change to the industry and exploring greener mining opportunities.

One of the biggest topics under discussion was hydrogen mining.

There is currently minimal global production of low-carbon hydrogen, but there are encouraging signs that it may shape the future of mining on the continent.

Hydrogen offers an alternative energy source, with its use as fuel producing no direct emissions of pollutants or greenhouse gases.

Most hydrogen is produced through carbon capture technologies, but there is increasing interest in generating green hydrogen through renewable energy via electrolysis.

This gives Africa a decided advantage – the continent has access to low-cost and abundant renewable energy.

The International Renewable Energy Agency estimates that Africa could meet nearly a quarter of its energy needs from indigenous and clean renewable energy by 2030.

Embracing this form of electricity will require the installation of electrolysis

facilities and will affect the demand for minerals, particularly nickel and platinum group metals.

On home soil, the South African government is exploring ways to match up platinum mining, renewable energy, and hydrogen production to form a hydrogen hub. This hub will include hydrogen applications in an integrated ecosystem and has been mapped out in the country’s National Hydrogen Society Roadmap and Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

REBOOTING SOUTH AFRICA’S MINING SECTOR Speaking at the Mining Indaba, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that South Africa is committed to mobilising the resources necessary to encourage a new wave of exploration, particularly of the minerals required for the global energy transition.

African continent need to be able to explore and extract oil and gas in an environmentally-responsible and sustainable manner. These resources are important for energy security, for social and economic development, and for reducing energy poverty on the continent,” he said.

But giving South Africa’s mining sector a reboot has become essential, especially as the country was ranked as one of the 10 worst mining investment countries in the world, according to the 2021 Fraser Institute Investment Attractiveness Index.

“After more than 150 years, mining remains a critical pillar of our economy. Mining is a significant contributor to export earnings, it is an important source of foreign direct investment, and directly employs nearly half a million people,” said President Ramaphosa.

Already a world leader in platinum group metals, South Africa plans to move its mining sector towards strategic metals such as copper, nickel, and cobalt, among others.

He added that many mining companies see the potential in South Africa, and their investment will play a key role in economic growth.

“We are keen to harness the opportunities of the hydrogen economy. We aim to be not only an important hub for the production and export of green hydrogen, but also of green ammonia, green iron and steel, and sustainable aviation jet fuel,” he said.

At the fourth South Africa Investment Conference, investments of more than R46billion were pledged towards mining and mineral beneficiation.

Mining has an important role in South Africa’s just energy transition, said President Ramaphosa.

“It is clear that as our reliance on coal is reduced, pathways towards new economic activity needed (sic) to be created for workers in affected industries… Countries on the

Mining can create great economic opportunities, but the sector can also be at the forefront of the energy transition, reducing its impact on the environment and leading the way towards a greener industry. n Sources www.miningindaba.com www.dailymaverick.co.za www.gov.za www.iol.co.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 29

OPERATION VULINDLELA

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

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t the heart of plans to drive economic growth in South Africa are a series of reforms, targeting key industries such as electricity, water, transport and telecommunications.

The reforms, to be implemented under a specialised unit called Operation Vulindlela, will aim to address structural problems in South Africa’s economy – and are already starting to show success.

“The South African economy, like any other economy, cannot function, let alone grow, without efficient and competitive network industries,” says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“Structural problems in these areas have long been cited as some of the main constraints on South Africa's economic growth.”

TRANSFORMING NETWORK INDUSTRIES Operation Vulindlela is the joint delivery unit of the Presidency and National Treasury. The unit, which was established in October 2020, seeks to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.

Operation Vulindlela aims to modernise and transform network industries, including electricity, water, transport and digital communications. These network industries form the foundation of an internationally competitive economy. Under Operation Vulindlela, 19 priority reforms have been identified.

While government departments drive these reforms, Operation Vulindlela monitors and identifies challenges and blockages.

These reforms are expected to place South Africa on a new trajectory of high and sustained economic growth, creating new opportunities for investment.

Of the reforms proposed under Operation Vulindlela, eight are completed and 11 are on track. Some of the successes of Operation Vulindlela include the completion of the spectrum auction process, the introduction of an e-visa system, and increased reforms in the energy sector.

30 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

In the digital communications sector, the release of new spectrum will improve connectivity and bring down broadband costs.

The conclusion of the highdemand radio frequency spectrum auction added more than R14-billion to the national fiscus, according to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa. This should improve connectivity and bring down broadband costs, as well as enable mobile operators to expand their services to include next-generation technology such as 5G.

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and enables third-party access to the freight rail network.

A fully operational e-Visa system has been launched in 14 countries and a review of the work visa system is also underway.

Legislative reforms, such as the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill and the Electricity Pricing Policy will improve competition in the electricity market. Added to this, the process of unbundling Eskom is on track and the entity has established a National Transmission Company. The unbundling of Eskom's generation and distribution divisions is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

“Inefficiency and the high cost of network services are impediments to doing business in the country,” says President Ramaphosa.

Some of the major achievements of Operation Vulindlela include: •

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The National Ports Authority was established as a separate subsidiary of Transnet. The move is the first step towards enabling private sector participation and improving port terminal efficiency.

The Blue Drop, Green Drop and No Drop systems – which monitor water and wastewater treatment quality – have been reinstated for the first time since 2014.

The government has updated its Critical Skills List.

The Department of Water and Sanitation has received technical support with a turnaround plan for the granting of water use licences.

The establishment of a National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency, to manage national water resources, is underway.

Cabinet has approved a White Paper on National Rail Policy. The plan aims to revitalise rail infrastructure

Power Producer Procurement Programme and opened new bid windows. In addition, changes to the regulations on new generation capacity have allowed municipalities to procure power independently – a first for the country.

UNSTOPPABLE MOMENTUM A number of important, interconnected reforms have been achieved in the electricity sector, to address the way South Africa generates and consumes electricity.

“Through Operation Vulindlela, we have also been able to take a more focused and holistic approach to reforms, ensuring better coordination where multiple departments and entities are involved. The best example of this is in the energy sector, where several important, interconnected reforms are under way to change the way that we generate and consume electricity,” says President Ramaphosa.

Some of these successes include raising the licensing threshold for new generation projects to 100MW. This has allowed these projects to connect to the grid and sell power to customers.

Under Operation Vulindlela, the government has also revived the Renewable Energy Independent

“Across government, our focus is on reforms that are fundamental and transformative; that reshape the way our economy works,” said President Ramaphosa.

He added that some reforms may take time before the public sees their full impact.

“What has been achieved

by Operation Vulindlela and the respective departments in a relatively short space of time should demonstrate the commitment of government to implementing reforms that are necessary to inject growth into our economy and inspire confidence in the business and investor community,” said President Ramaphosa.

“The reform agenda is moving and its momentum is unstoppable. Together, let us build on this progress and translate economic reform into growth, opportunity and employment.” n Sources www.businesstech.co.za www.itweb.co.za www.news24.com www.news24.com www.sanews.gov.za www.stateofthenation.gov.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 31

NATIONAL RAILWAY POLICY

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Full steam ahead New policy to transform South Africa’s rail sector

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new policy is set to introduce radical structural reforms to South Africa’s railway sector. South Africa’s railway plays an essential role in the economy, forming the backbone of the logistics and transport value chain. The sector is key to reviving the country’s economy and has been highlighted as integral to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

The new White Paper on National Rail Policy looks to increase investment in this essential infrastructure, as well as prepare the sector to add to economic growth in the future.

A DECLINING RAIL SECTOR The new White Paper on National Rail Policy was gazetted at the start of May and unpacks plans to develop the South African railway network, with private sector investment and effective economic regulation that enables equitable access to both the primary and secondary network.

The policy was approved by Cabinet in March, says Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula.

“The release of the White Paper on National Rail Policy represents a new epoch and a decisive break with the past, which saw the railways being used as an instrument to segregate society and give credence to a system of racial oppression,” he says.

South Africa’s rail network has been operating for more than a century without a cohesive National Rail Policy. The lack of policy, as well as challenges over time, have lowered the efficiency of the system and limited its contribution to economic growth.

According to Minister Mbalula, a 1986 report that advocated against new rail investments, and the deregulation of the road sector in 1988, has pushed large portions of the rail industry into acute decline.

This gave rise to deferred maintenance of passenger rail assets, which resulted in the decline of commuter rail over the decades, with substandard service being provided in areas that predominantly serviced Africans.

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“The obsolete state of much of the rail infrastructure and rolling stock, the limitations of narrow gauge and the underutilisation of the existing network presents only a few of the many challenges facing the rail sector.

The National Rail Policy intends to place rail on a sound footing to play a meaningful role as a backbone of a seamlessly integrated transport value chain able to make a meaningful contribution to the economy,” said Minister Mbalula.

and rail network requires extraordinary interventions that go beyond merely stepping up security. Theft and vandalism of critical rail infrastructure with the effect of disrupting economic activity constitute economic sabotage and should be treated as such by our courts of law,” said Minister Mbalula.

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BUILDING INVESTMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE The National Rail Policy sets out the government's remedial interventions to position rail to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy and reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

The White Paper looks to enable investment in railways, with a focus on heavy haul, heavy intermodal, and contemporary urban and regional rapid transit.

“The policy also encourages the entry of black, female, and young industrialists as local manufacturers, including through manufacturing joint ventures. A localisation strategy will be used to develop the industrial base for an active export strategy, particularly to other African countries. This will also support the Steel Master Plan of Government,” said Minister Mbalula.

Some of the proposals in the White Paper include: •

IMPROVED SAFETY AND SECURITY: The Railway Safety Regulator will be encouraged to use new investments to implement modern safety technology, and all critical role players will ensure safety and security in both passenger and freight transport. The export of scrap metal may also be banned, to reduce cable theft.

“The criminality behind the rampant theft and vandalism of railway infrastructure that has stripped bare our stations

BUILDING LOCAL INDUSTRY CAPACITY: The policy will boost manufacturing capacity in the industry, with a focus on the local production of steel and other rail supplies. This will be achieved by ensuring that the state and private operators procure all supplies from South African-based manufacturers.

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INCREASED ROLLING STOCK: Rolling stock is essential to railway operations and is an integral part of the policy, with the government supporting freight and passenger train operators providing their own rolling stock as an additional funding source. Operators and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) can lease their rolling stock to any other party and encourage new entrants in the market.

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HIGH-SPEED RAIL: Central to the passenger rail reforms is the introduction of high-speed rail and the Department of Transport is developing a framework to prioritise high-speed rail corridors in South Africa.

Feasibility studies on proposed high-speed rail services will be conducted by the Department guided by the framework.

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SKILLS DEVELOPMENT: The White Paper also looks to increase skills development in the rail sector. The long-term plan is to establish an institution of higher learning specialising in rail engineering and operations.

Minister Mbalula adds that the White Paper introduces interventions that will open up the rail market to other operators to compete and improve operational efficiency.

“The policy places emphasis on improved rural access, increased mobility, increased job creation within the rail sector through infrastructure construction and contributes to economic development. Support to the agricultural, agro-processing and mining sectors will receive maximum traction with the implementation of the policy,” he says.

“In relation to passenger rail service, the policy seeks to address the capacity challenges, where PRASA cannot run services and introduces concessioning on other lines where private sector (sic) can operate services.” n Sources www.702.co.za www.engineeringnews.co.za www.gov.za www.iol.co.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 33

REGIONAL FOCUS

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Limpopo

Powering ahead

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impopo is rich in agricultural and mining resources and is linked to the Maputo Development Corridor through the Phalaborwa Spatial Development Initiative, a network of road and rail corridors connecting to the major seaports which will open up Limpopo and surrounding regions for trade and investment. This is complimented by the presence of airports in major centres of the province including Ellisras, Makhado, Musina, Phalaborwa, Mokopane, Thabazimbi, Tzaneen, Thohoyandou and Bela-Bela as well as the Gateway International airport in Polokwane.

As a result of financial incentives for investors from national government,

the province has established TIL (Trade Investment Limpopo) which offers a wide range of services to entrepreneurs and investors interested in setting up businesses - including acquisitions, green field investments, joint ventures with local partners, cross holdings of equity between an overseas and local partner or collaborative agreements in the field such as research and development, transfer of technology or sales and distribution.www.limpopo.gov.za HYDROGEN VALLEY “South Africa currently produces 2% of the global demand for hydrogen, mostly made from

natural gas. Given the projected global demand for green hydrogen, South Africa has the opportunity to convert its current global supply to green hydrogen and the potential to increase the country’s share of the green hydrogen market.

As a country, South Africa has good trading relations with the countries that are looking to import green hydrogen. These include the European Union broadly and Germany in particular, Japan, South Korea and China.

“According to the recently launched South African Hydrogen Valley Feasibility Study Report, the average cost of green hydrogen will be around USD 4 (EUR 3.5) per kg by 2030 along the Platinum Valley corridor, representing a green premium of USD2-2.5 per kg above grey hydrogen, produced from natural gas.”- Hon. Minister Blade Nzimande The Platinum Valley Corridor starts from Anglo American Platinum’s Mogalakwena Mine in Limpopo, through Pretoria and Johannesburg down to Durban, passing through the N1 and N3 and It is expected that by implementing the catalytic

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development and job creation.

It was established as a special purpose vehicle, culminating from the amalgamation of four historical agencies, namely Trade and Investment Limpopo, the Limpopo Business Support Agency, the Limpopo Agribusiness Development Corporation and the Limpopo Economic Development Enterprise.

By providing business intelligence, as well as research and development towards innovative solutions and using scientific impact assessment tools and approaches to develop scenarios and business intelligence, the Agency aims to: projects identified in the South African Hydrogen Valley Feasibility Study Report, the green premium could be lowered to enable green hydrogen to be at parity with grey hydrogen.

President Ramaphosa officiated the proceedings at Anglo Platinum Mine outside Mokopane in the Mogalakwena Local Municipality on Friday, 06 May 2022. Mogalakwena mine is part of the hydrogen production, storage and refuelling complex in Limpopo.

which would lead to new industries.

“It is testament to the visionary nature of the leadership of Anglo American that a mining house for which fossil fuels have been an integral part of their business, is now leading the way in the use of clean energy in its operations,” – President Ramaphosa

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Hydrogen valley, which stretches from Limpopo to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, will contribute to over R50-billion to the country’s Growth Domestic Products (GDP) in the next twenty years.

“The proposed hydrogen valley stretching from here in Limpopo, right through to Gauteng and to Kwazulu-Natal will position South Africa as a global centre for green hydrogen production. We are serious about this, and we don’t seek to undermine other nations in terms of what they are doing. Our objective is to be the real hub of the green hydrogen productions and that is our intended destination

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LIMPOPO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGENCY The Limpopo Economic Development Agency (LEDA) is a leader in sustainable innovative economic growth and development. The Agency’s mission is to accelerate economic growth,

Monitor and evaluate the impact of projects Provide capacity support in areas of development Conceptualise economic programmes and drivers Identify development opportunities Develop bankable business and project plans Support local economic development capabilities Coordinate and manage the implementation of strategic infrastructure and economic interventions Facilitate trade and investment Attract new industries to the province

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUDIT OUTCOMES According to the local government audit outcomes for the 20202021 financial year presented by Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke, Limpopo was one of the shining stars, showing positive signs of local government improvement in municipal audit outcomes over the past five years. n Sources www.limpopo.gov.za www.lieda.co.za www.gov.za www.news24.com

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 35

FINANCIAL FITNESS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Fuel price increase How to save at the pumps

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s South Africans face yet another massive fuel price hike, many will find their budgets stretched in accommodating increased transport costs.

The latest price hike has been caused by a number of factors, including the war in Ukraine and structural issues within the economy. But there are some things that commuters can do to lower the impact of the rising fuel cost on their pockets.

South Africans rely heavily on road transport to reach their destinations.

More than 80% of South Africa’s workforce rely on taxis to commute to work, with another 16% using buses to reach their places of employment. In South Africa, four million workers drive to work, and most of these motorists live in urban areas.

Travel costs are highest among those that drive to work, with the average motorist spending more than R2000 a month. By

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comparison, those commuting via taxi spend R960 and bus users spend R745.

According to Statistic SA’s National Household Travel Survey, the cost of all modes of transport to work had increased between 2013 and 2020. The highest increase as seen among those who drove cars to work.

TAKE YOUR DRIVING TO TASK Motorists are most likely to feel the fuel increase at the pumps, but

a few simple changes to driving behaviour can help boost your vehicle’s efficiency. Smooth driving can help you reduce your fuel expense, as most vehicles will use around 50% of their power on acceleration.

There are other transport alternatives that can get you out of your car altogether and dramatically reduce the amount you spend on transport.

Consider making the following changes to your driving: •

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•

•

Gentle braking: Accelerating and braking gradually will increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, as well as reduce general wear and tear. Just remember to keep a safe following distance between yourself and other vehicles, to allow you more time to slow down.

Pump up your tyres: Driving with your tyre pressure as recommended can also boost your fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres can cause more friction on the roadway, and your petrol gauge will quickly drop in response.

Slow it down: Driving slower while in an optimal gear is the easiest way to boost your fuel economy. Lower speeds can use as much as 25% less fuel, and most vehicles are at their most efficient when driving between 80 and 110km/h.

Avoid the traffic: Stop/start driving in heavy traffic is

certain to deplete your fuel faster than regular driving. Try to avoid congested routes or consider travelling outside of peak traffic hours to reduce your petrol bill.

Another great option to reduce the amount you spend on fuel is to start carpooling with colleagues or friends. This will allow you to all contribute to the cost of the transport and reduce your environmental impact while enjoying some company during your commute.

•

CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE AND SAVE There are other transport alternatives that can get you out of your car altogether and dramatically reduce the amount you spend on transport.

growth in online retail offerings.

More and more people are now purchasing online, and by following suit you could reduce the hours you spend travelling.

Ordering online means that your purchase will be delivered to your home, very often with other deliveries destined for the same neighbourhood, reducing your carbon footprint.

Work from home: COVID-19 saw workplaces pivoting to accommodate employees working from home and many companies are still using a hybrid working model. Taking advantage of flexible hours or working from home can see you spending less time on the road, reducing your fuel expense and freeing up your schedule.

Try some of these lifestyle changes to limit the amount of time you spend in your car.

•

•

•

Take public transport: South Africa’s major cities have implemented a number of safe and reliable public transport options in recent years. These include the Gautrain, which runs between Pretoria and Johannesburg, Cape Town’s MyCiTi bus network and the GO!Durban rapid transport routes.

Walk or cycle: If you live close to your destination, consider walking or riding a bicycle. This is a great option if you live in a city such as Cape Town, where the municipality has invested in cycle lanes to promote cyclist safety. Not only will you bring down your petrol usage, but you’ll also be healthier from the extra exercise!

Online shopping: Over the last few years, South Africa has experienced exponential

Changing your driving patterns and lifestyle can reduce your expenditure on fuel, but it can also have positive knock-on effects: You could find yourself with more time in your day, feeling fitter and healthier, and reducing your impact on the environment. n Sources

www.businesstech.co.za www.ewn.co.za www.carmag.co.za www.statssa.gov.za www.statssa.gov.za

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 37

LEGAL MATTERS

BY SILKE RATHBONE

Health and Happiness in the Workplace

Who is responsible for what?

vibe which affects other employees in a good way.

There has been a significant upswing and focus with regard to employee wellness. Put aside the surreal two years we have all experienced in the shadow of COVID-19; with many jobless, many going through depression, uncertainty, loss and grief, the need to look after our own is of paramount importance.

PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYEES An employee who is healthy in body will generally be healthy in mind.

Having staff that feel good inside and out means a more productive workforce, leading to happier customers and higher revenue.

When it comes to an employee’s health, wellness and happiness, as a boss, you can do so much to make their time with you amazing.

No, it is not all up to you, but seeing as they will spend most of their adult life working, you may as well do what you can to make it a pleasant experience.

LOYAL EMPLOYEES The stats show that an employee who is looked after well will stay longer in employment at the same company. Having employees who stay longer increases your revenue, mostly just because you don’t have to re-employ. On the other hand, the cost of replacing staff is very high.

WHY BOTHER WITH HEALTH & HAPPINESS IN THE WORKPLACE? Your business cannot function without people. From the customers who buy from you to the staff that help you run the company, you need to be focusing on them all.

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR EMPLOYEES BE MORE HAPPY AND HEALTHY? Host Wellness Days • Encourage exercise, even at their desk or in the break room or organise a weekly Zumba or yoga session • Keep healthy snacks on hand • Encourage an open-door policy for when they need to talk • Consider flexi-working hours that works for everyone’s schedule • Bring in a coaching

HEALTHY EMPLOYEES A healthy employee is mostly a happy employee. When your staff feel good and lead healthy lives, they are less likely to take sick days off, will be more present when at work and will send out a positive

38 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

•

methodology – where employees help each other – or even have an external objective coach available Implement an employee assistance programme – where your staff have access to a trained professional to discuss their daily challenges (believe me this works)

LabourExcel specialises in offering a variety of Labour Law and HR Solutions. Silke Rathbone, one of the Principal Partners, has crafted and honed her skillset and assists corporates and individuals along the Labour journey to ensure they understand what is required of them at all levels. n

With more than 50% of the strategic leaders being young black females, Bathu is truly living its values through empowering women within the African landscape.

Bathu is not just a leader when it comes to being Africa’s premium sneaker brand, but also an advocate when it comes to diversifying gender gende equality in leadership.

Women are true advocates of change, both individually and collectively – empowering women to be at the helm brings a diversity of skills, different perspectives, structural and cultural differences which ultimately drive effective solutions within the company. The women at Bathu exude a transformational leadership style which echoes the company values and carries through the brand promise. Through teamwork, different perspectives and a sense of awareness, these women can investigate finer details to see what is really going on underneath, their potential and capabilities are irrefutable.

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 39

UPCOMING EVENTS

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

8

June is all about

the youth and 14

16

World Oceans Day

World Blood Donor Day

Youth Day

UN Secretary General, António Guterres said recently: “It is time to realise that, to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the objectives of the Paris Agreement on climate change, we urgently need collective action to revitalise the ocean. That means finding a new balance in our relationship with the marine environment.”

Revitalisation was the theme for this year’s World Oceans Day. A hybrid celebration was held at the UN headquarters in New York and broadcasted live around the world. The commemoration raises awareness not only about the benefits to the world’s biodiversity, but also how important ocean-based industries are for the economy.

Becoming a blood donor is one the many ways you can be of help to others. World Blood Donor Day is about showing gratitude to all those who donate their blood and make transfusions possible. “Transfusion of blood and blood products helps save millions of lives every year. It can help patients suffering from lifethreatening conditions live longer and with a higher quality of life, and supports complex medical and surgical procedures,” says the government. According to the South African National Blood Service, one donation can potentially save up to three lives and it's no wonder millions around the have made the small sacrifice for the greater good.

40 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

As the burden of vast numbers of unemployed youth move sharper and sharper into focus, it’s fitting that each year we are called to remember that fair education and career prospects were something lives were given up for back in the winter of 1976. It was on that day, and the months that followed, that school children demanded an equal education which we have been able to take greater strides towards since that dark day in South Africa’s history. On this day we honour the fallen, and celebrate the progress we have made towards the South Africa that those children dreamed of back then.

d the environment 17

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought “Droughts are among the greatest threats to sustainable development, especially in developing countries, but increasingly so in developed nations too. In fact, forecasts estimate that by 2050 droughts may affect over threequarters of the world’s population,” says the UN. Since 1994, the world has recognised the 17th of June as World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought. Although we’ve just come out of the UN’s Decade for Deserts and the Fight against Desertification, the efforts to raise awareness and spark early responses must and will continue. This year’s theme is “Rising up from the drought together”, which further emphasises the need for early responses.

20

23

World Refugee Day

Africa Public Service Day

The courage it takes to flee one's home is no small feat. It’s a journey fraught with uncertainty and this day, the 20th of June, is not just about raising awareness about the plight of refugees, but also taking a moment to truly grasp what sort of courage is woven into the fabric of people who take a leap they never thought they would have to take. “World Refugee Day shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of refugees, helping to mobilise political will and resources so refugees can not only survive but also thrive,” says the UN Refugee Agency.

At the very heart of the state’s function is service to the people, which is what this day is all about.

Beginning in 1994, Africa Public Service Day has been “an event entrenched in the African Union calendar”, after a conference held in Morocco, which gathered leaders of public/civil service ministries across the continent.

“It was agreed at this conference that 23 June should be celebrated annually as Africa Public Service Day to recognise the value and virtue of service to the community.

It is also a platform to reflect and share practical recommendations on women empowerment in public service nationally and across the continent.”

Sources: www.icomos.org | www.un.org | www.worldvet.org

Public Sector Leaders | June 2022 | 41

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CAPE TOWN • SHOP 655 • TEL: 021 555 3696

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42 | Public Sector Leaders | June 2022

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Public Sector Leaders | June 202216072019 |16072019 43 08:29 08:29

MAY | 2022

APRIL | 2022 FEBRUARY | 2022

MARCH | 2022

Celebrating Freedom Day CHIEF JUSTICE

Honourable Raymond Zondo appointed as South Africa’s new Chief Justice

NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSIONER General Sehlahle Fannie Masemola

KZN FLOODS Pulling together to rebuild KZN

SARS SUCCESS STORY Commissioner Edward Kieswetter brings good news

DR. NOBUHLE NKABANE Reshaping the future of South Africa’s mineral resources

TRAILBLAZER HEADING HERE Leading the fight Oditala imperim against corruption is omneque moenatum Ismail Momoniat

INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN HEADING HERE Africa's ExBuilding sedi, conSouth iam int economic future ficibuteris through infrastructure

UNEMPLOYMENT HEADING HERE Thelos topCaterib 4 programmes Go tus utuisu etimunlocking ceraciamyouth aurnultod potential int ficibuteris

BUDGET SPEECH Interesting figures from the budget speech

PROVINCIAL FOCUS Billions of rands to be invested in KZN

HUMAN RIGHTS MONTH Minister Nathi Mthethwa launches Human Rights Month

MAY | 2022

APRIL | 2022

MARCH | 2022

FEBRUARY | 2022

DEC•JAN | 2022

NOVEMBER | 2021

OCTOBER | 2021

SEPTEMBER | 2021

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