PSM 2015 November Edition by Topco Media

PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGER

NOVEMBER 2015

THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC SECTOR DECISION-MAKERS

Correctional Services turnaround National Commissioner Zach Modise focuses on human capital

New opportunities Minister Angie Motshekga looks ahead to 2016

Protecting the vulnerable

NOVEMBER 2015

• Safeguarding women and children • Ensuring the rights of people with disabilities

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Contents November 2015

Provincial focus KZN MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Cyril Xaba hopes to harvest a successful economy

Youth issues A new project aims to give the youth access to opportunities that will improve their lives

Public sector appointments Who is new on persal?

Financial fitness It’s time to break the debt addiction

Regulars 10

Conversations with leaders Access to quality education is top priority for Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga

Profiles in leadership The new CEO of the Technology Innovation Agency, Barlow Manilal, is the right man for the job

Vital stats Fast facts at your fingertips

Upcoming events A look at local and international events for your diary and information

Women in the public sector Dr Praveen Sukhraj-Ely shares her passion for promoting the rights of vulnerable people

Features 16

Building state capacity for effective correctional services delivery The Department of Correctional Services is making strides towards a better life in a safer SA

Trailblazer Instrument fitter Zanele Dlala is passionate about her job and serving her country

Minister Nene sets his sights on public procurement and spending Finance Minister unpacks plans to manage public funds

In other news News you need to know while you are on the go

International relations Global leaders recently met at the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly to plot the way forward

Minister Dlamini is championing the rights of vulnerable groups Government continues to support and protect its most vulnerable

President Zuma pledges support for the media The President has reiterated government’s commitment to freedom of expression and media freedom

Back to Basics boosts local government The Back to Basics programme is making headway in improving services

Minister Mbalula determined to score big on transformation Government wants citizens to enjoy equal access to sports and opportunities

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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Lifestyle 78

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Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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MessaGe FroM the Minister

Take a stand against abuse

ecently the battered body of an eight-year-old girl was

concerned that violence based on gender and sexual

found in a river in Mamelodi, Tshwane. The grim dis-

orientation remains unacceptably high.

covery by police showed that the girl’s hands and legs

It is within our power and means as South Africans to

were tied together. It is suspected that she was raped and then

turn the tide in the fight against the abuse of women

murdered.

and children in our country.

News of the brutal incident sent shockwaves through society. We all rightly expressed condemnation and disbelief at this

These crimes do not only affect the person who has experienced it but also scars an entire community.

atrocious crime.

The onus of reporting violence

These horrific acts demon-

and abuse is not the victim’s re-

strate the need to intensify our

sponsibility alone; it falls upon all

efforts to remove this scourge

of us as these incidents often take

from society.

place within our homes, families

This month signals the start

and communities.

of our annual campaign of 16

We call on communities to

Days of Activism for No Violence

come forward with any informa-

against Women and Children,

tion that could assist police in

which takes place from 25 No-

holding perpetrators account-

vember to 10 December 2015.

able for their actions.

It is a time to renew our com-

When communities are silent it

mitment to end the brutal and

only encourages the recurrence

dehumanising behaviour by

of these brutal criminal acts

some in our society. The cam-

against women and children. We

paign offers an opportunity to reaffirm our pledge to protect

Communications Minister Faith Muthambi.

zens and it is time that we stand

the human rights of all women

up to protect those around us.

and children.

It could be our actions that help

The status quo affects the ability of women and children to

break the cycle of violence and abuse that many women

enjoy the rights and freedoms they are entitled to in a demo-

and children experience. Let us be more vigilant and re-

cratic society. We have an obligation to create an environ-

port any strange or abusive behaviour by those in our

ment where they freely exercise these rights and live free from

neighbourhoods.

violence.

Government, through the introduction of legislation and

Let us mobilise civil society, government and other partners

programmes, is supporting victims of abuse. Our Family

to take action and end violence against women and children.

Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units as

Since the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence

well as the Sexual Offences Courts are there to hold abus-

against Women and Children campaign 17 years ago we have

ers to account.

placed issues affecting women and children firmly on the na-

We must all work together to completely stamp out

tional agenda. It has encouraged South Africans to not look

violence against women and children in our society. It

away and to take a stand.

is only through a united effort that we can positively

Despite our notable advances as well as South Africa’s constitutional and legislative protection, government remains

all have to play our part as citi-

change norms, attitudes and behaviour that perpetuate violence.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

MessaGe FroM the actinG director-General

Overcoming the disability barrier

he story of Lucas Sithole is truly inspirational. Like most

disabilities from accessing the job market and reach-

young boys in Dannhauser, in northern KwaZulu-Natal,

ing their full economic potential.

he spent most of his free time outdoors playing football

This is illustrated in the Commission for Employment

with friends. But this came to a sudden halt at age 12 when he

Equity 2014–2015 Annual Report, which shows that

lost both legs and right arm in a train accident.

people with disabilities only account for 1.1 per cent

The period following the accident was not easy. However, his

of the workforce in the private sector. National gov-

spirit unbowed, seven years later he was invited to a wheelchair

ernment is at 1.9 per cent, just a shade under its 2015

tennis camp where he picked up a racquet for the first time. Fast

target of two per cent.

forward seven years and “Twister”, as this tennis force is known,

To assist indigent people with disabilities, govern-

made world headlines when he became the first African quad-

ment introduced a disability grant to support those

riplegic tennis player to win a Grand Slam title, the US Open, in

who are unlikely to find employment and have limited

New York in 2013.

sources of income. We also implemented a care de-

As with most people living with a disability, the fact that Sithole

pendency grant for caregivers taking care of persons

is in a wheelchair is just a tiny component of who he is as a

with profound disabilities. Furthermore, government

person. As we mark Disability Rights Awareness Month from 3

also gives all children with disabilities under the age

November to 3 December this year, abled-bodied South Africans

of six access to free healthcare, including rehabilitation

are reminded to look past people’s impairments and notice their

and assistive devices.

skills, talents and what they have to offer our society. This month will also provide a platform for government, civil

ing institutions have access to an extensive array of

society, business and labour to take stock on progress made in

reasonable accommodation support grants, includ-

promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

ing assistive devices and technologies, and personal

As a nation we have a come a long way since

assistance.

the dark days of apartheid when South

Since people with disabilities are often dependent

Africans with disabilities were dis-

on public transport, to access education and work

criminated against, neglected and

opportunities, we ensured that they have access

marginalised. Since then govern-

to subsidised public transport. The Department

ment has implemented legislation,

of Transport has also now institutionalised a

policies and initiatives towards

universal design for the Bus Rapid Transit pro-

creating an inclusive society where

gramme to ensure it is user friendly for com-

persons with disabilities can realise

muters with disabilities.

their full civil, political, economic,

Although government will continue to imple-

social, cultural and development po-

ment measures to break down barriers for

tential.

people with disabilities, the truth is

Despite this, numerous barriers con-

that every South African has a

tinue to persist which include

role to play in equalising

physical barriers as well as un-

the playing field. Let’s

merited perceptions about

work together to en-

persons with disabilities.

sure that all South

Sadly these barriers often

Africans with dis-

keep South Africans with

Students with disabilities at higher learning and train-

Acting Director-General Donald Liphoko.

abilities reach their full potential.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Writer: Albert Pule Photographer: Kopano Tlape

conversations with the leaders

Access to quality education a priority for Minister Motshekga

s the Department of Basic Education (DBE)

Operation Phakisa ICT in Education

prepares to close the doors on a successful

Recently, President Jacob Zuma launched an initiative

school year, it is with a sense of excitement

called Operation Phakisa ICT in Education.

that Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga and her team look forward to 2016. In a recent interview with PSM, the Minister said

methodology that was first applied by the government of Malaysia.

efforts to increase access to education will get a

The operation addressed their national key priority

major boost when the department implements two

areas such as poverty, education, crime and unemploy-

initiatives - Incremental Introduction of African Lan-

ment.

guages (IIAL) and Operation Phakisa ICT in Education – next year.

Operation Phakisa is modelled on the Big Fast Results

It involves setting up clear targets and following up with an ongoing monitoring process, which makes the

“In 2016, we are going to roll out a pilot for the

results public. Through this initiative, the Malaysian gov-

Incremental Introduction of African Languages,” she

ernment registered impressive results within a short

explains.

period.

This means that schools that previously only taught

During the launch, President Zuma said officials from

English and Afrikaans will offer pupils an indigenous

many government departments discussed methods

African language from Grade 1 next year.

aimed at rolling out ICT infrastructure.

So far, the department has developed printed ma-

“One hundred and twenty participants comprising

terial and will be delivering Learner Teacher Sup-

experts and officials from the national and provincial

port Material (LTSM), in the language chosen, to all

Departments of Basic Education and other govern-

schools for the implementation of IIAL in 2016.

ments departments, labour, academia and private sector

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

have engaged in a problem-solving methodology that

who sat for the Grade 12 exams is an indication that gov-

unravels the challenges in the system and seeks to devel-

ernment is making strides in to ensure that education is ac-

op as well as fast-track the national roll-out of ICT in the

cessible.

basic education sector,” the President said at the time.

“The figures involved in this year’s National Senior Certifi-

Minister Motshekga is excited and hopeful that the

cate (NSC) examinations are remarkable. It is a very interest-

implementation of Operation Phakisa ICT in Education

ing year as we have more learners registered for the NSC

will improve the quality of education and simplify some

examinations than ever before.

of the administrative processes.

“This is indicative of the fact that we are retaining more

“ICT will help us in many ways. It will help with the cur-

learners in the system and improving access to education.”

riculum and at an administrative level because at times

Reflecting on the academic year as it draws to a close,

getting administrative information

Minister Motshekga said unlike previous years,

is a big problem.”

the 2015 school year has been good one with

One of the benefits of an initiative like Operation Phakisa is the speed at which things happen and she said that if implemented correctly, it could assist in speeding up the issuing of results. “You can imagine that if we do the Annual National Assessments using

Minister Motshekga is excited and hopeful that the implementation of Operation Phakisa ICT in Education will improve the quality of education and simplify some of the administrative processes.

few disruptions. Among the contributing factors to the stability in the sector this year, is the consistency in the leadership of the department as the Minister and Deputy Minimiser have held their positions since 2009. “We are coming to the department for the second time and we have a better understand-

ICT we can have the results over-

ing of the issues and we knew what had to be

night because if the learners write

done,” she explains.

the exams using computers, we will get real-time results.” She added that she has seen the positive impact through the use of ICT, especially in Gauteng. “I’ve seen in Gauteng where ICT has been implemented that it also helps teachers and improves teaching.” Another benefit for implementing Operation Phakisa ICT in Education is that learners who are struggling with their work will not delay other pupils. “It will give teachers a chance to see which kids are struggling. “The teacher will be able to let those that understand to continue and give more attention to the ones who are struggling. Learners will not be delayed and or left

Annual National Assessments Two months ago, the DBE and the majority of teacher unions were involved in a public spat in which unions told their members that they should not administer the Annual National Assessments (ANAs). Since then, the department has had engagements with stakeholders in the education sector. “The DBE has been in constant engagement with teacher unions in an attempt to find an amicable settlement on points of concern raised, without compromising the administration of ANA in 2015.” The DBE has since announced that the ANAs will take place

behind.”

in the first week of December.

The class of 2015

Departments (PEDs), have put in place a management plan

With more than 800 000 registered candidates, 10 mil-

to ensure that ANA test papers are stored in safe and secure

lion question papers, 7 000 examination centres, 65 000

environments to ensure that the integrity of the assessment

invigilators, 35 000 markers and over 100 marking cen-

is not violated.”

“The DBE, working together with the Provincial Education

tres, the 2015 school year saw the highest number of candidates sitting for the Grade 12 exams. All of these are positive signs, said Minister Motshekga, adding that the increase in the number of candidates

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Teachers will mark the test papers and they will be given up to the end of January 2016 to finalise the marking and issue the results to parents. Schools will be assisted to utilise the ANA results as >>

conversations with the leaders

a diagnostic measure to identify areas that require focused intervention in teaching and learning in language and mathematics.

Importance of ANA Despite increased opposition from teacher unions, Minister Motshekga said the ANAs have played a significant role in

“The teacher profiling project has provided us with use-

giving the department an idea of the challenges facing the

ful and accurate information which will assist the PEDs to

education sector.

deploy appropriate teachers to classrooms without

The ANAs have been running for the past four years and

undue delay,” she explains. In addition, the department has re-launched teacher

are written by Grades 1 to 6. The Minister said one of the primary reasons the depart-

training centres.

ment is determined to go ahead with the 2015 ANAs is

“We have launched 131 fully functioning teacher

because new grades are scheduled to be included in them.

training centres, of which 60 are fully ICT compliant

“We have enough information to work on those lower

thanks to the Vodacom Foundation sponsorship.

grades. We have now introduced Grades 7 and 8, which

“To develop teachers for the future we have award-

we have never assessed and we don’t have benchmarking

ed over 14 349 Funza Lushaka Bursaries in the 2014

information, that’s why we are insisting that in 2015 we want

academic year alone. During the year under review, we

to address ANA.”

managed to appoint a record of 3 875 qualified educa-

She said the previous ANAs have helped the DBE refocus

tors who are under the age of 30.”

with regard to primary schools.

Improving school infrastructure

“It gave us a tool to assess what is

Minister Motshekga says although govern-

happening from Grade 1 and we’ve picked up lots of systemic problems

Quick facts

ment has made progress in making education

in terms of our teacher skills, con-

129 new schools have been

accessible, it has not paid sufficient attention

tent, management of schools and

completed to date. These in-

to school infrastructure.

administration in schools.

clude:

To improve school infrastructure, especially

“In my view, I think it is embar-

• 92 in the Eastern Cape

in the predominantly rural provinces, the de-

rassing what the ANAs have been

• 20 in the Western cape

partment will, under the Accelerated Schools

picking up in our schools, its very

• Six in the Free State

Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI) Pro-

uncomfortable.”

• Five in Mpumalanga

gramme, continue with efforts to eradicate the

• Three in Limpopo

backlog in schools without water, sanitation

identified through the ANA would

• Two in the North West

and electricity and to replace those schools

be addressed as DBE focuses on

• One in the Northern Cape

constructed from inappropriate material.

every grade.

499 schools have received water

She added that the problems

As part of the ASIDI programme:

for the first time.

• 527 schools that were built from inappropriate

to know what the required standards

425 schools have received de-

material in their entirety will be replaced with new

are for learners in different grades.”

cent sanitation for the first time.

schools that meet the department’s standards of

289 schools have been connect-

basic functionality.

ed to electricity for the first time.

•

“It has helped all of us as a sector

Teacher development Minister Motshekga said last year her

access to sanitation will be supplied with at least a

department turned its attention to teacher development.

basic level of sanitation. •

“In a bid to ensure that we have the correct teacher teaching the correct subject, we have embarked on a teacher profiling exercise across the system.

939 schools that previously did not have

932 identified schools that were not serviced will have access to electrical energy supply.

•

1 145 schools that do not have access to water will be provided with basic water supply.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

INTERVIEW

MAZWE FINANCIAL SERVICES

INTERVIEW WITH THE FOUNDER AND CEO, XOLISWA BEBULA

“Our passion is two-fold – making a difference in people’s lives by providing housing and addressing job creation.” Xoliswa Bebula, dynamic, driven and dedicated, heads up Mazwe Financial Services, trading as Mazwe Credit (Mazwe). In an interview at Mazwe Head Office in Sandton, Xoliswa spoke about her driving principles – and what it takes to be a womenowned microfinance institution in South Africa. “I see myself as an entrepreneur through and through – I love making a difference,” said Xoliswa – she went on to describe how important it is for her to make a positive impact on people’s lives by making financial services available to the lower to middle LSM tier (income earners ranging from R3 500 – 15 000), and to women-owned construction companies which in turn results in ensuring shelter and job creation for all. This aligns with the key impetus of the NDP and speaks directly to the needs of the second economy. “The lack of mortgage finance in the middleincome residential market (gap market) was identified in the Comprehensive Plan for the Creation of Sustainable Human Settlements (Comprehensive Plan) as an area requiring intervention and as a result the Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) was introduced. The capital subsidy instrument caters for those households whose earnings are above the fully subsidised housing units, from R3 501 to R15 000 a month. These households qualify for FLISP on a sliding scale; with the lowest income stratum (R3 501-R3 600) qualify for a full subsidy amount of R87 000.00+CPIX,” says Xoliswa. “The banks do not have an appetite for offering mortgage loans to this band of income earners – due to the lack of collateral and title deeds. The majority of people in this tier come from rural areas and want to build back home where both collateral and title deeds pose a challenge. “Mazwe is not a bank and therefore cannot tap into FLISP. We believe that there is a need for government to introduce FLISP to microfinance institutions whose main focus is developmental, housing in particular. The affordable housing market outlook in South Africa faces an enormous challenge with regard to supply and demand,” says Xoliswa. “The backlog remains acute and recent estimates indicate that the shortfall could be

as high as 5.8 million. According to the latest figures of household survey of 2011, SA had 6.2 million households that earned less than R3 500 per month. 3.8 million households earned in the range of R3 500 to R10 000, and another 2.3 million earned in the range of R10 001 to R30 000. NCR Credit Market Report Q1 2015 reported that there were 36 442 mortgage loans granted. Out of the 36 442, only five were granted to households whose earnings were up to R3 500 per month. Between R3 501 and R15 000 there were 2 835 mortgages, which is only 7,8% of all mortgage loans granted. Above R15 000, there were 33 602 which is 92%. Based on the above stats it is clear that the FLISP subsidy will never be fully utilised as the first tier banks focus more on the individuals that earn more than the FLISP threshold. Mazwe is positioned well to service this market and her focus is pension backed housing loans and loans to womenowned construction businesses. Our dream is to become a Women Construction Bank. When asked about her personal story Xoliswa said: “I was born and bred in Eastern Cape and came to Johannesburg in 1984, starting as a teacher in Maths and Science – which to this day remains one of my passions. “Making a difference in people’s lives has always been my passion. Mazwe is a vehicle that enables me to live this desire. Our passion is two-fold; making a difference in people’s lives by providing housing and addressing the job creation problem. Mazwe was born in 2006 with a clear vision of addressing the problems of the second economy. The business started small with sweat equity of R500 000 which was lent out within six months. “The loans were targeting lower LSMs specifically for housing and enterprise development. Throughout our operating years we have been funded by both the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and through the Public Investment Corporation (PIC).” In terms of focus for the business, Xoliswa said:

grow the majority of these businesses from grade 2 to grade 7, all of which depends on the strength of their balance sheets. The higher their grade, the greater the likelihood of them being awarded tenders. This is where Mazwe comes in. We offer financial management training as well as working capital and bridging finance loans with a 3 to 12 months repayment, risk-based interest rate.” Speaking about milestones and achievements, it was testimony to Xoliswa’s deep and abiding commitment to making a difference that these centred around the people whom Mazwe has assisted in making profound life changes: “A client was living in a shack in Pretoria with his wife and four children. He approached us and we gave him a R50 000 loan with which he bought material and built a six roomed house. We paid the supplier directly. He then built up to the roof stage – we gave him a further R25 000 and today he and his family are living in that house with their pride and dignity restored. This gave me huge joy.” “When the only black woman in South Africa to start a company in the Lift industry approached us because she could not pay salaries after having completed a project for government, Mazwe took a risk and supported her. Today Nqoba generates revenue of R10-million and employs approximately 50 people.” What is Mazwe’s vision? “We see ourselves as a women-owned construction bank in the near future. We aspire to work closely with the Department of Human Settlements, financial development institutions and municipalities. “We want to address the need at home whilst at the same time grow into Africa.” Xoliswa believes strongly in ploughing back and she is convinced that she will achieve this dream by going back to lecturing the Principles of Microfinance, but not before she has made life-changing differences to people of South Africa and later have impact in the sub-Saharan Africa.

“We are focusing on the construction industry. Our target market is CIDB grade 2 to 7 which currently constitutes 10 604 of the 76 000 registered construction companies. Our ambition is to

Postal Address: PO Box 781786, Sandton 2146 Physical Address: 1st floor SITA Building, 18 Eglin Road, Sunninghill Telephone: 011 803 9003 | Fax: 0118039001

ProFiles in leadershiP

Writer: Stephen Timm

Barlow Manilal is up to the innovation challenge

arlow Manilal is not someone to shy away from

branch offices. The agency shut its offices in Limpopo

a challenge. And in keeping with his personal-

and Bloemfontein. It now has offices in Cape Town,

ity, the new CEO of the Technology Innovation

Pretoria and Durban. But Manilal points out that the TIA

Agency (TIA) is also not afraid to acknowledge that the state-owned enterprise that he has inherited will need

After consultations with the Department of Science

a lot of work to turnaround. A task, he believes, is not

and Technology and trade unions, a new staff organo-

insurmountable.

gram was also completed and 60 staff members took

The agency was launched in 2010, following a merger

voluntary severance packages last year.

of nine institutions, to boost investment in innovation.

Manilal says a second window for staff to take voluntary

But it has had is fair share of problems, including top staff

severance packages was held earlier this year but that

leaving and going through four CEOs in just five years.

only a single staff member took up the retrenchment

Despite this Manilal, the former head of the Automo-

offer.

tive Industry Development Centre, remains steadfast in

At the end of the restructuring process 22 unplaced

his belief that he can turn the embattled agency into a

staff needed to be placed in the 27 vacancies that had

top performer.

opened up.

“I have a plan and I am urgently going through this plan,” says a resolute Manilal.

While he stressed that no forced retrenchments had to be made during this time, he admits that an “unintended

Eluding to the dismissal of former high ranking

consequence” from the restructuring process has been

officials who were dismissed last year after a forensic

a skills drain where a number of top staff opted to leave

investigation found several irregularities, such as irregular

the agency.

investment transactions, Manilal admits that the agency has faced governance challenges in the past. The first six months of his five-year contract has been about stabilising the agency and putting in place better systems and processes. When Manilal took over in April the agency had already

will still have a national presence.

“TIA has come through quite a serious restructuring process and we are far from the performing phase,” he says, adding that some staff members still had to get to grips with their new roles. The idea is to scale down, but become more effective, Manilal explains.

undergone a voluntary staff retrenchment process after

Key, he says, will be synergies and the agency will need

its budget was cut from R521 million in the 2014/15

to take on the role of encouraging a better innovation

financial year to R385 million in the current financial year.

ecosystem by getting various actors in the innovation

The cut followed a 2013 ministerial review that found

environment to work closer together while leveraging

the agency had underperformed in a number of areas.

networks and partnerships more.

In July the agency completed a consolidation and

The TIA has, in the past, had an “arms-length rela-

rationalisation exercise to reduce staff numbers and

tionship” with entrepreneurs and innovators and been

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

“quite insular” in its approach to funding innovation, Manilal acknowledges. In addition, previously big industry has not had a productive relationship with the agency. To address these issues, the agency will initially look at collaborating better with other government funding agencies and interact more closely with tertiary institutions, industry associations and donor funding of entities, he adds. Key will be the creation of a pipeline of ideas from entrepreneurs and companies, and then leveraging networks off other state and private sector players. The priority is to create better synergies with other government agencies, with those with the private sector coming “a close second”, points

CEO of the Technology Innovation Agency Barlow Manilal.

out Manilal. Consideration is also being given to the creation of a portal

the stations with about 2 000 small firms helped annually.

with which those funded by the agency can exchange ideas.

In a recent interview with PSM, Minister of Science and

The TIA-funded network does not cooperate sufficiently,

Technology Naledi Pandor said that following a study un-

he says.

dertaken by the TIA, a decision was taken for the agency

“What could happen is that you get an entity in the West-

to continue hosting the technology stations programme.

ern Cape that is looking at photovoltaic cells of some sort,

The TIA’s mandate is also to give non-financial support,

funded by TIA, and 100km away another person, also funded

incubation and enterprise development support, but Ma-

by TIA, doing similar kinds of work. There could be an im-

nilal admits that the agency has failed to deliver these in

portant linkage there that currently is not well orchestrated.”

the past.

According to Manilal, the agency also plans to revive the

“That’s a whole new idea that we should have already had

Seed Fund, which was established in 2013 to assist univer-

active capacity and competence and we don’t,” he says. To

sities and start-ups to commercialise ideas. A decision was

address these areas, the agency will have to work closer

expected to be taken soon at its investment committee.

with players such as The Innovation Hub, the Science Park

However, Manilal is clear that the agency’s reduced budget will necessitate a more critical assessment of applications. The ministerial review also suggested that the 15 technology stations and three institutes of advanced tooling

and similar entities. The TIA also needs to look at how to source and fund more bright ideas from those based in townships and rural areas, adds Manilal.

that fall under the agency, should perhaps be moved to an-

Attracting students who have innovative ideas is also im-

other agency, such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial

portant. The agency is currently conceptualising business

Research.

competitions and other related events to draw in the youth.

The technology stations provide entrepreneurs with labo-

Manilal says the road to making the agency more effective

ratory testing and use of equipment and in the past five years

will be a long one but a challenge that he is committed to

more than R70 million has been invested in modernising

seeing through.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

FEATURE

*Writer: Zach Modise

Building state capacity for

effective correctional services delivery

n 2015, South Africans celebrated 21 years of freedom, sharing many pockets of excellence in the delivery of

The Minister made a commitment to boost the

services. The Department of Correctional Services

human capital through, among others, increasing the

also marked a plethora of strides made over the years.

staff compliment from 42 000 to 66 000, to profession-

These included the entrenchment of constitutionally guaran-

alise corrections and rollout an intensive recruitment

teed human rights, demilitarisation, new legislation, the White

drive called Operation Hira that focuses on security and

Paper on Corrections in South Africa, and overall improvement

retaining officials with scarce and critical skills.

in security, rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society.

As we continue marching into the third decade of freedom, we should not only appreciate the strides

The National Development Plan (NDP) has now provided a

made over the past 21 years, but also use them as the

blueprint of a South Africa people would love to see, realise

foundation from which we launch a more vigorous pro-

and experience - a society where all people will be and feel safe

gramme of implementing our policies and strategies

while going about their everyday activities.

to put corrections on a higher delivery path. So much

The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Advocate Michael Masutha, said that central to these national efforts towards a safer society is Correctional Services.

rehabilitation and social reintegration of offenders.

more needs to be done and we have the requisite political will and administrative commitment. Central to our multi-faceted strategy to turnaround

He described it as a labour intensive operation that seeks to

correctional services delivery is the focus on our human

break the cycle of crime through safe and humane custody,

capital as a strategic resource for building the capacity

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

of the state to realise the ideals enunciated in the NDP.

technicians, information technology specialists, supply chain

We have engaged a higher gear in the recruitment,

management specialists and occupational directed education

training and retention of our personnel with over 3 000

and training development officers.

recruited and over 1 000 currently undergoing train-

The campaign was launched in Gauteng during Corrections

ing in our two Correctional Services colleges. These

Week in September 2015, and will be rolled out through a series

recruits will help us fill entry-level positions, while also

of job fairs in all six regions of Correctional Services this month.

helping to accelerate the transformation of correctional

These two-day job fairs will entail the collection of applications

services to a more representative institution in respect

from candidates that meet the requirements on the first day,

of women and people with disabilities.

conducting preliminary vetting of applicants, shortlisting and

Of the 1 020 recruits currently at our colleges, 449 are women and 21 are people with disabilities, which

contacting potential candidates for interviews to be conducted on the second day.

represents 44 per cent and two per cent of the new

We have set aside dedicated capacity to make this a reality. We

recruits respectively. Other crucial data indicative of

are, further to the recruitment road shows, rolling out a compre-

our shift to professionalise corrections include the fact

hensive communication campaign to ensure that the identified

that 286 of the recruits have degrees and diplomas, and

sites for job fairs are handling only people with the requisite

are reflective of the racial and geographic dimensions

skills. It will enable the department to address a series of chal-

of our society.

lenges that include high vacancy rates in these skills categories.

The other leg of our focus on human capital is a cam-

For example, by 31 March 2015, the vacancy rate for medical

paign called Operation Hira, an unprecedented recruit-

practitioners was 39 per cent, 34 per cent for psychologists, 28

ment drive for people with scarce and critical skills.

per cent for pharmacists, 21 per cent for educationists, 18 per

These include medical doctors, nurses who are primary

cent for professional nurses and 17 per cent for social workers.

health specialists, educationists with technical skills,

The targeted skills are pivotal in ensuring that rehabilitation and

pharmacists, psychologists, engineers, artisans, social

correcting of offending behaviour reach a higher level.

workers, employee assistance practitioners, agriculture

It is equally crucial to reiterate that we have a good story to tell, considering the strides made during the first 21 years of freedom. To stimulate the interest of potential professionals targeted by Operation Hira, we must highlight that they will be part of a winning team that is driving the transformation and development of correctional services to be the player in the criminal justice system and in strengthening social crime prevention and development. We are making good progress in both addressing criminogenic factors of crime as well as communal macro socio-economic causes of the current crime patterns in our society. Correcting offending behaviour has reached unprecedented levels, with 68.8 per cent of all sentenced offenders with correctional sentence plans completing their programmes. Steady but sure progress is also being made in a range of other areas of our work. For example, over the past six years, we increased full time schools from one to 14 with a corresponding need to recruit and retain experienced educators with competencies in mathematics, science and commercial subjects.

The department's rehabilitation work has consistently focused on adult education and training.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

The constitutional and legislative obligation to provide health care services to inmates that are commensurate with what >>

FEATURE

ordinary citizens can access from public health care facilities at state cost, means we have to recruit and retain more professional nurses and other health care professionals such as doctors and pharmacists. Of all the scarce skills categories, the department has the highest vacancy rate in psychology, and given the fact that our mandate is about facilitating change in human attitudes and conduct, we can ill-afford these shortages. The job fairs will provide invaluable experience and lessons for future reference. The job fairs and high-gear recruitment drive for scarce skills will include an exhibition that showcases opportunities for professionals in the department. Interested professionals will be able to submit their curriculum vitae at the job fairs and on-the-spot shortlisting, preliminary interviews and security clearance checks will be conducted. This campaign is expected to reduce the turnaround time for selection and employment of professionals by over 80 per cent and enable the department to meet its ever-drifting targets for human capital engagement. For

The department has a legislative obligation to provide health care services to inmates.

example, during the 2014/15 financial-year, our recruitment drive netted only 1 482 staff members with a shortfall

its mandate. We regard our personnel as the most valu-

of 57.7 per cent, given that natural attrition reached 3 505

able asset at the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disposal to help break the cycle of

in the same year. Clearly, as Albert Einstein said, we cannot

crime through rehabilitation and the social reintegration

continue to do the same thing in the same manner and

of offenders.

expect a better outcome or different results. Our analysis of the recent staff turnover patterns shows

department has partnered with various players to beef up

that a large number of officials are reaching their retire-

its capacity for expediting these normally long processes

ment ages. In 2014/15, 1 705 officials resigned, 494 retired,

to be completed within two days. Further Education and

124 were dismissed, 219 passed on, 50 were medically

Training colleges, Sector Education and Training Authori-

boarded and 913 contracts were terminated.

ties, and other state organs will collaborate to help the

These emerging and challenging patterns are responsible for an overall increase in the vacancy rate from 5.7 per

To make this innovative recruitment project a success, the

department meet its ambitious recruitment targets for all scarce skills categories of officials.

cent in March 2014 to 8.4 per cent in March 2015, which

Going forward, we have also increased the offerings of

is below the 10 per cent average vacancy threshold set by

bursaries to students who want to pursue relevant stud-

the Department of Public Service and Administration. Our

ies in the scarce and critical skills fields, with 118 bursa-

biggest concern is the fact that in the scarce and critical

ries granted for the 2015 academic year. This brought the

skills categories that are targeted in the Operation Hira

overall tally of bursary beneficiaries to over 250 students

campaign, the average vacancy rate was 19.6 per cent by

nationally. Other interventions include obtaining access

the end of March 2015.

to databases of qualified professionals, including those

Operation Hira, which was announced by the Minister

who were granted state bursaries to pursue their studies.

during his Budget Vote earlier this year, is aimed at getting

It should be noted that this challenge of recruiting and

the right people, at the right time to do the right things to

retaining scarce and critical skills is a phenomenon that

enhance the capacity of our department in delivering on

goes beyond the Department of Correctional Services.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

Correcting Offending Behaviour to move South Africa forward

Pfarelo Correcting Offending Behaviour to move Rehabilitation Pfarelo South Africa forward Second chances

Tshanduko Social

reintegration

Change Phetogo

Second chances

Pfarelo

kwezigwewe Rehabilitation Ukulingiswa Pfarelo

Ukulungiswa kwezimilo

Tshanduko Social reintegration Tshokollo Phetogo

Forgiveness Rehabilitation Change Phetogo

Tshanduko kwezigwewe

Ukulungiswa kwezimilo

Second chances Forgiveness Rehabilitation Pfarelo Ukulingiswa

Tshokollo Ndulamiso Tshanduko

Ukulungiswa Vergifnis Tshwarelo Ndulamiso Second chances Tshokollo Tshwarelo Tshokollo Pfarelo Pfarelo Ukulungiswa Tshanduko Tshwarelo Phetogo

Ukulingiswa Phetogo kwezigwewe Tshwarelo

Ukulungiswa Phetogo kwezimilo

Vergifnis Tshwarelo Ukulingiswa kwezigwewe

Tshwarelo Ukulungiswa Tshwarelo kwezimilo Tshokollo Rehabilitation Tshanduko Tshokollo Pfarelo kwezigwewe Tshanduko Ukulingiswa Ndulamiso Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Tshwarelo Tshanduko Ukulingiswa

Ukulungiswa Rehabilitation Ukulungiswa

Second kwezigwewe chances Ndulamiso Tshanduko Second

Ukulungiswa Ukulungiswa Ukulungiswa kwezimilo

Ukulungiswa chances Ndulamiso kwezimilo Tshanduko

Ukulungiswa Ndulamiso kwezimilo

kwezimilo kwezimilo

Ukulungiswa Second kwezimilo

Second chances Tshwarelo chances Tshwarelo

Phetogo

Pfarelo Pfarelo Pfarelo Pfarelo Tshanduko Tshanduko Second Second Tshanduko Tshanduko chances chances

Phetogo

FEATURE

It therefore requires a broader national dialogue and inter-

and vulnerable citizens of South Africa.

sectoral collaboration to find lasting solutions. As a con-

All concerned leaders, managers and citizens should throw

tribution to that dialogue we are calling for joint action in

their weight behind the Department of Correctional Services’

the following areas:

efforts to deal with these challenges, as together we will derive

•

lessons that can enhance our interventions at a macro level.

Creating a flexible system that will allow for shared services in the scarce and critical skills categories between different government organs and agencies.

•

man capital to address the nation’s skills shortages in the identified job spheres. This may include career guidance of school learners at basic education level, targeting students pursuing studies in the identified job categories for granting bursaries and

•

of less than half-a-million people described as criminals that induces so much fear and a sense of insecurity

Establishing a comprehensive longterm plan to build requisite hu-

•

There are strong views that essentially, it is a small population

To make this innovative recruitment project a success, the department has partnered with various players to beef up its capacity for expediting these normally long processes to be completed within two days.

for 53 million people. Of course the dominant paradigm at the corrections stage is a curative and rehabilitative one. Our Operation Hira campaign seeks to strengthen our transformation agenda, and our shift to an effectively preventative correctional system that reduces re-offending in South Africa. There is nothing we can do to

creating in-service training opportuni-

reverse crimes already committed. However

ties for these groups.

there is so much we can do together, holisti-

Fostering partnerships among key players in the private

cally, to protect the next victim of offenders in our care and to

and public sectors, as well as civil society organisations

redirect their energies to build rather than harm our society.

that will contribute towards greater collaboration in efforts

We owe it to the current and future generations of the peo-

to train, employ and retain people with scarce and critical

ple of South Africa to effectively address both individual and

skills.

socio-economic factors behind the crime levels experienced

Finding innovative and sustainable ways of addressing

in South Africa.

spatial development disparities that leave millions of peo-

We believe, in our lifetime, we can build a society where all

ple without access to these scarce services, while highly

people are and feel safe. However, this requires all of us to work

developed provinces such as the Western Cape and Gaut-

together to realise the ideals of a safer society envisioned in

eng are over subscribed.

the NDP. Let us start by making Operation Hira a success.

The lack of capacity in the scarce and critical skills categories impacts on the entire public service’s ability to

*Zach Modise is National Commissioner of the

render a plethora of essential services to the uninsured

Department of Correctional Services.

Jobs fair schedule REGION

VENUE

DATE

Gauteng

Pretoria: Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre Hall

5-6 November 2015

KwaZulu-Natal

Pietermaritzburg: Sevontein Correctional Centre in

10-11 November 2015

Elandskop. Limpopo/ Mpumalanga/ North West Polokwane: University of Limpopo - Turfloop

12-13 November 2015

Campus Hall

Western Cape

Cape Town: Goodwood Correctional Centre Hall

19-20 November 2015

Free State/Northern Cape

Bloemfontein: Grootvlei Correctional Centre Hall

23-24 November 2015

Eastern Cape

Port Elizabeth: St Albans Correctional Centre Hall

26-27 November 2015

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

ADVERTORIAL

TUNNEL VISION By Busani Ngcaweni

TAKES ITS TOLL ON OUTA

cintillating or dumbfounding? That is the dilemma I faced after putting myself through the 331 pages of Wayne Duvenage’s book, “The E-Tolls Saga”. Was it three and a half hours well spent on a chilly Wednesday morning, especially for a miserably slow reader like myself, I wondered. Appreciating the daunting task of putting together a book with demanding publishers like Pan Macmillan, the first adjective rang true. One is always fascinated by the idea of another South African book hitting the bookshelves. Even more so when the author is someone you know and better still, when the subject in question is as familiar as the “E-Tolls Saga” which Duvenage writes about. As one thinks hard of the contents and conclusions of the book, the switch to dumbfounding looms larger

than the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project. How did Wayne arrive at this point, downplaying all the facts and science before him? Let us look at two major conclusions in the book to test its rigour. Hopefully, in the end, readers will make up their own minds about whether to treat the book as an intellectual canon on public policy or just a collection of thoughts and media statements meant to amplify a narrow ideological standpoint. The book concludes that sustaining the electronic mode of payment to charge users of the Gauteng freeway network is illegitimate because the public was not adequately consulted and where they were, they overwhelmingly “rejected the e-tolls”. Yet it is a matter of public record that for more than two years prior to the adoption of the new e-toll

dispensation, government listened to the public’s concerns and responded to legitimate perceptions about the costs of transport associated with e-tolling. In addition, following another round of consultations, the new dispensation offers reduced maximum limits for all users and a simplified system which will allow infrequent users of the e-tolled roads defined free passage. During these consultations on the future of e-tolling on the Gauteng freeways, a multitude of factors were taken into account, one of which was how to best look after the interests of poor and marginalised communities. One of the notable dynamics of the opposition to open road tolling has been the way in which the interests of disparate groupings in society converged into common opposition to a system designed to find a long-term solution to the legacy of apartheid spatial planning. Middle-class interests, predictably, took a populist approach to build an anti-government narrative. The most vocal opponents of e-tolling shared a common agenda with opposition political parties and received ready funding and logistical support for their campaigns. The book documents some of convenience crowned by OUTA, thus making it difficult is not the party’s civil society

of these marriages the DA’s funding of to believe that OUTA proxy.

Political expediency took precedence over a purely infrastructural matter. In what has since become a theatre of the liberal offensive, we saw a manifestation of what Mahatma Gandhi identified as one of the seven social sins: politics without principle. Look no further than the Western Cape where the tolling of Chapman’s Peak is embraced, but maybe only just, and no further. Even as we have referred to recent consultation processes which build on the work that started around 2007, we fail to understand why Duvenage would come to the dishonest conclusion that there had been no consultation and if there was, it was just “a farce”. In Gauteng Premier Makhura’s review panel processes, records show that many submissions called for the retention of e-tolls, albeit with lower caps and administrative simplicity. As asserted in this article, that has been taken care of in the new dispensation and compliance is expected to rise over the next two years. The second dumbfounding and perhaps most ideologically pointed conclusion in the book regards the fuel levy as an alternative to e-tolls.

Rehashing hundreds of his press statements on the matter, the author sees higher fuel levies as a panacea to pay for an improved freeway system without explaining to the public the downstream impact on transport costs, inflation and the prices of all consumer goods. Fuel levy lobbyists have often expressed the view that e-tolling would place an additional burden on the poor who pay an inordinate percentage of their income on transport-related costs. The reality is that research by various scholars shows in great detail why the user-pay principle is the most effective method to pay for vital economic infrastructure and restrict the burden on the poor. The fuel levy is not a user pay mechanism because it is indiscriminatine. So, for example, a car owner and or taxi operator confined to Tembisa, let’s say, can’t be exempted even though he does not use the GFIP network. Taking science into account, the Premier’s panel advised against the fuel levy. Compared to a fuel levy, e-tolling is a flexible system which can be easily adapted to provide relief for commuters who make use of public transport or who plan their journeys to take place outside peak hours. This is exactly what Government has done, through the National Department of Transport, with its decision to exempt registered public transport from e-tolling in Gauteng. Given the fact that close to 69% of the population of Gauteng use taxis to commute, the exemptions make e-tolling the most pro-poor alternative for the funding of the freeway system.

“69% of the population of Gauteng use taxis to commute” Other methods such as fuel taxes and a hike in licence fees will have a direct impact on public transport operators and immediately get passed on to the commuters in the form of higher fares. Yet we all agree that much and urgent integrated public transit sytem in Gauteng is overdue. The reality is that Government’s decision -- made almost a decade ago -- to improve the Gauteng

ADVERTORIAL freeway network and to finance it through an openroad tolling system, was not taken in a huff. Public policy making is much more conscientious than suggested. It grew out of a clear recognition that well-planned and well-maintained roads are only some elements of a broader approach to undo the spatial legacy of apartheid, reduce the “commuting burden” – as described by the National Development Plan – and create a more equitable transport system. The new dispensation continues to recognise poor communities and has introduced changes which will benefit the poor. The majority of low-income earners use public transport to commute to their places of work. Under the new deal public transport – registered buses and taxis – continue to be exempt from e-tolls. Imagine Sipho from Soweto who only travels twice a year to Soshanguve to make peace with his in-laws: with new 30 free gantry passes, he does not have to bother about e-tolls. Isn’t that a material response to public concerns and reduction of administrative burden on road users? Finally, the new dispensation ensures that a welldesigned and well-maintained national and provincial road network will contribute to government’s developmental objectives to address the triple threats of poverty, inequality and unemployment. The thing about writing a book, Mr Duvenage, is that once it is published, you loose your innocence, your privacy and all the privileges that goes with being a normal person. In other words, writing a book is like being elected into political office. You subject yourself to scrutiny, to praise, to a dipper measuring stick. You literately become a subject in the world of literature. As a book writer myself (and Mr Duvenage has contributed a chapter on e-tolls in one my of my books), I wish to congratulate Wayne for this achievement. It takes courage to condense one’s story in book form especially in South Africa where publishers always think of money first and the story later. Whilst I vehemently disagree with the main storyline in this book (especially the suggestion that e-tolls are threatening the Constitutional order), I commiserate with the nervous condition he experienced throughout the publishing process and understand why close to a quarter of the book is tautologous. Again, I empathize: book writing is a punishing enterprise especially if you collaborate with a journalist who is emotionally attached to the subject you are writing about.

“well-planned and well-maintained roads are only some elements of a broader approach to undo the spatial legacy of apartheid” Truth be told, the book should have ended in the dying paragraphs of page 299. It surprising doesn’t and adds further politically charged sections which include another ideological let-out where a subtle call is made for a coalition of regime change led by the “Club of Active South African Citizens” modeled along the 1970s “Club of Rome”. In all honesty, although the book fails to declare this, Wayne has scored victories for his constituency. Only if the tunnel can be removed to see this road to success. Facts are: people are now paying less to drive on GFIP. The administration burden has been reduced with measures like 30 free gantry passes. The system is simpler especially when you update your car details - now a FICA requirement. Public transport users and taxis are exempted. The e-tag is not a requirement for registration and compliance. Not paying e-tolls is now a traffic and no longer a criminal offence. Every struggle has minimum and maximum victories. If his was a struggle to reduce the burden on the poor (as often claimed), then isn’t maximum victor that OUTA has scored? If it is an ideological stance against the ruling party, then they live to fight another day. I particularly wish Mr Duvenage well as he contemplates exiting OUTA and embarking on another more difficult road of management consulting. *Ngcaweni edited “Liberation Diaries: Reflections on 20 Years of Democracy” (Jacana Media, 2014) which featured chapters on E-Tolls and constitutional democracy by Wayne Duvenage and Nazir Alli This article first appeared in The Thinker Volume 66 / 2015.

Compiled by: Dorris Simpson

vital stats

Fast facts at your ﬁngertips Development Indicators 2014 [Part one]

he Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation recently released the seventh edition of the Development Indicators, which are a collation of data extracted

from many sources, including official statistics, government databases and research institutions. The Development Indicators 2014 highlight the progress South Africa has made in the following areas of development: • Economic growth and transformation • Employment, poverty and inequality • Household and community assets • Health • Education • Social cohesion

Safety and security • Combating the unacceptable high levels of crime remains a priority for government. Between 2002 and 2013, the number of serious crimes reported declined from over 5 000 to 3 500 per 100 000 population.

Tourism • Almost 15 million international travellers arrived in South Africa in 2013, double the number in 2005. • Tourism generated 4.6 per cent of total employment in 2012, up from four per cent in 2005 and contributed R93 billion to the GDP in 2012, more than double the R45 billion in 2005.

• Safety and security • International relations

Tax revenue collection

• Good governance

• Tax revenue has grown significantly due to economic growth, a broader tax base and more effective revenue collection. The income tax register expanded from three

• Transport Infrastructure • Energy. The progress is measured against targets in the National

million taxpayers in 1996 to almost 20 million in 2014.

Development Plan: Vision 2030, the Medium Term Strategic Framework, national priority outcomes, other key plans and

Household and community assets

policies.

• The number of households expanded from 10.8 million to 15.6 million between 2002 and 2014. • The percentage of households in low living standards (LSM 1 to 3) decreased from 40 per cent to 11 per cent between 2000 to 2013. • The share of households accessing basic services increased as follows between 2002 and 2014:  Electricity from 77 per cent to 86 per cent.  Water infrastructure from 80 per cent to 86 per cent, exceeding RDP standards.  Sanitation from 62 per cent to 80 per cent.

The report highlighted key areas of good performance as follows:

Education • The share of five-year-olds attending early childhood development facilities more than doubled from 39 per cent in 2002 to 87 per cent in 2014. • 84 per cent of adults in South Africa were literate in 2014, up from 73 per cent in 2002.

Health • South Africans’ life expectancy increased by nine years, from 52 years in 2004 to 61 years in 2014. • Infant mortality dropped from 58 to 34 deaths per 1 000 live births between 2002 and 2014. • Under five mortality dropped from 85 to 44 deaths per 1 000 live births between 2002 and 2014. • South Africa contributed to halting and reversing the spread of HIV (Millennium Development Goal 6). The number of HIV-positive persons on antiretroviral treatment in South Africa stood at 2.8 million in 2014, which is a significant portion of the global target of 15 million. The global target was achieved ahead of schedule in 2015. Source: Development Indicators 2014

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Compiled by: : Ednah Kekana

UPCOMING EVENTS

Africities 7 Summit 29 November-3 December

16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign 25 November -10 December

The Africities 7 Summit, the seventh edition of the Local Govern-

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against

ments Pan-African Days, will take place in Johannesburg under

Women and Children campaign is an international

the theme “Shaping the Future of Africa with the People: The

awareness-raising campaign. It is commemorated

Contribution of African Local Authorities to Agenda 2063 of the

every year from 25 November (International Day for

African Union”.

the Elimination of Violence against Women) to 10 De-

Organised every three years by United Cities and Local Govern-

cember which is International Human Rights Day. The

ments of Africa (UCLG Africa), the event has become a distin-

period includes Universal Children’s Day and World

guished opportunity for the evaluation of the implementation

AIDS Day.

of decentralisation policies in Africa.

South Africa adopted the campaign in 1998 as one

The summit brings together leaders of local/city governments,

of the intervention strategies towards creating a soci-

representatives from the private sector and trade unions, and

ety free of violence. The campaign continues to raise

researchers and academics to share ideas and experiences, and

awareness among South Africans about the negative

to discuss local development issues. Above all, the summit will

impact of violence against women and children on all

seek to develop a consolidated African position on urbanisation,

members of the community.

climate change as well as human habitat in Africa. The 2015 event is being organised the UCLG Africa and the

For more information on where to get help and what government is doing go to www.gov.za

City of Johannesburg in partnership with the South Africa Local Government Association and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. The summit will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre. For more information go to www.africities2015.org

Forum for China Africa Cooperation 4-5 December Johannesburg will host the second summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). FOCAC is a platform established by China and African countries for collective consultation and dialogue and as a cooperation mechanism among developing countries. The characteristics of the forum are twofold. First, it is to strengthen consultation and expand cooperation within a pragmatic framework and second, to promote political dialogue and economic cooperation with a view to seeking mutual reinforcement and cooperation. The summit will be preceded by a Meeting of Senior Officials on 2 December, followed by the Sixth Ministerial Meeting of FOCAC on 3 December. A new Declaration and Plan of Action (2016-2018) will form the outcomes of the summit. For more information go to www.focac.org/eng

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

woMen in PUblic sector

Writers:*Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi and Noluthando Mkhize

sons with disabilities and on the kind of services they receive at courts. Dr Sukhraj-Ely says her responsibilities include ensuring that all courts and justice service points across the country are accessible and user-friendly for persons with disabilities. Currently, victims and persons with disabilities experience severe challenges in obtaining sign language interpreters, documents in braille, intermediaries, access to court preparation officers and physical access to court and justice services buildings, she adds. “I am proud to be at the forefront of initiatives that help persons with disabilities.” Persons with disabilities still face many challenges, she notes. “Society still harbours negative attitudes, misperceptions and stereotypical beliefs about persons with dis-

Dr Sukhraj-Ely

rises above the odds W

abilities. Society is not inclusive in their outlook and development. “There are various problems with universal access, designs of buildings and the physical environment.” In addition, persons with disabilities often struggle to find employment, she adds. “Government depar tments must ensure that their relevant statutes protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities

ith first-hand knowledge of the challenges that people

and courts must be made accessible to persons with

living with disabilities have to overcome, no one is bet-

disabilities.”

ter placed to ensure that they have access to justice

than Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely. The advocate, who works for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD), was born with partial sight and by the age of 12 she had lost her sight completely.

Dr Sukhraj-Ely adds that there needs to be continuous awareness campaigns about society’s role in including persons with disabilities in communities. “Every member of society should lead by example by including persons with disabilities in families, schools

But despite the setbacks, Dr Praveena Sukhraj-Ely’s determina-

and the workplace. There is a need for a change in

tion shone through and she now heads the newly established

attitudes, further training, awareness and advocacy.”

Directorate of Persons with Disabilities at the DOJ&CD.

The road to success

Ensuring access to justice

Dr Sukhraj-Ely recalls the hardships she had to over-

Her unit places special focus on children, women and older per-

come to pursue her dreams.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

“As I could not attend a mainstream school, I had to be separated from family when I was three-and-a half

She passed the National Bar Examination in 2002 and practised as a counsel at the Durban Bar from 2002 to 2006. The highlight of her career, Dr Sukhraj-Ely says, came when she

to receive basic education at school. “There was no social interaction between the children at the school for the blind and mainstream schools which meant we, as blind children, couldn’t interact with children from the mainstream school and they could not interact with us.”

joined the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC) within the DOJ&CD as a Senior State Law Advisor in 2006. “My primary focus at the SALRC was family law and mediation which is very close to my heart.” In 2009, she was promoted to the role of Senior State Advocate at

At university she had to make do without the sup-

the Office of the Chief Litigation Officer, where she primarily drafted

port of textbooks and other documents. She also had

legal opinions and litigated on behalf of the DOJ&CD and other

to use a public transport system that, at the time, made

state departments.

travelling to university difficult, while buildings at the university had accessibility challenges that made mo-

A passion for serving

bility difficult.

When she is not advocating for the rights persons with disabilities at

“Lecturers did not know how to lecture using inclu-

the office, Dr Sukhraj-Ely enjoys helping several non-governmental

sive approaches, which often made

organisations on a voluntary capacity.

it difficult to follow the lectures.

She served as the Vice Chairperson

“I needed expensive technological equipment as lecturers did not understand braille. I had to use a type writer at first and later a computer with voice software.” But despite the challenges, Dr

of the National Executive Committee

" As I could not attend a mainstream school, I had to be separated from family when I was three-and-a half to receive a basic education at school."

of the South African National Council for the Blind from 2009 to 2013 and as Vice-Chairperson of the South African Disability Alliance from 2009 to 2011. Dr Sukhraj-Ely is currently the Chair-

Sukhraj-Ely had the love and sup-

person of the Children’s Disability Train-

port of her family, who were instru-

ing Centre, the Advocacy Committee

mental in helping her achieving her

for Blind SA and International Council

dreams.

for the Education of People with Visual Impairment.

“I had a very dedicated family who supported me

“In all these organisations I play a role in advising them on their

throughout the years. My mum, who is a nurse, and

strategic framework and as an activist in advocating for the rights

my dad, who was a carpet fitter, along with my brother

and needs of the visually impaired and persons with disabilities.

and sister, were always there for me,” she says.

Equality for persons with disabilities Academic achievements

A democratic South Africa brought with it many positive changes

The support, coupled with her determination to suc-

for persons with disabilities including having their rights enshrined

ceed despite her disability, helped her through the

in the Constitution, she acknowledges.

years at the Arthur Blaxall School for the Blind in Pietermaritzburg which, during the apartheid era, was designated for visually impaired Indian learners. Dr Sukhraj-Ely went on to obtain a Bachelor of Social Science degree, Bachelor of Law degree, Masters

“There are also various pieces of legislation in South Africa that promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities.” She adds that another milestone for persons with disabilities will be marked when Cabinet approves the draft policy on the rights of persons with disabilities, which is expected to take place this month.

degree in Political Science and PHD in Public Policy all from the former University of Natal and a Certificate

*Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi is the Assistant Director:

in Legislative Drafting from the University of Pretoria.

Content Development at the DOJ&CD.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

trailblaZer

Writer: Noluthando Mkhize

Zanele Dladla

looks to the sea

for success

here’s nothing that gets Zanele Dladla more excited than being out at sea, but helping out her country at the same time, makes her job as an instrument fitter

with the South African Navy all the more satisfying. Dladla, who describes her job as a calling and is the first female instrument fitter in the country, explains that she is responsible for the diving equipment for the navy divers. “I fix, operate and maintain the diving equipment.”

their intensive training but never complain, makes me want

Navy divers serve on board military ships. They also

to serve them better.”

provide assistance in rescue operations and humanitarian

“No matter how cold it is, the divers will be swimming and

missions nationally and to neighbouring countries.

no matter how hot it is, they will be running and carrying

“The SA Navy operates at sea and therefore it needs divers

weights. Their determination motivates me to ensure they

to dive into the water to inspect the ship’s structures and

have safe equipment.”

for sea rescue purposes. “The divers require an instrument fitter to support them

Serving the country

by fixing their equipment and maintaining them to ensure

Among the factors that drew her to a career in the navy, are

safety at sea.”

the discipline and respect that comes with the job.

One of the crucial pieces of equipment Dladla is

“I also love the navy uniform and being on the ships. I

responsible for is the self-contained underwater breathing

always wanted to joined the navy to protect and defend

apparatus, which is also known as a scuba set.

my country at sea.” Dladla says she always had the desire to do something

Inspiration to excel Dladla is the only woman in her team that provides a support service to the divers. “It feels good to be among the men, knowing that they rely on me to fix their equipment. The divers also respect me for

that would make a difference. “I just didn’t know I would end up doing so as an instrument fitter.” Originally from Soshanguve, Pretoria, Dladla is now based in Cape Town.

the work that I do. My job is challenging and yet exciting at

“I completed matric at Kgomotso Comprehensive High

the same time. It pushes me to be at the top of my game

School in 2004. Thereafter, I attended Pretoria West College

and excel in what I do.”

and did a mechanical engineering course.”

She finds added inspiration in the knowledge that she works with divers who are vey disciplined in their work. “Being amongst divers who swim and run every day during

In 2007, after completing her course she joined the SA Navy and served on board the SAS Isandlwana (F146) from 2008 to 2012.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

“I served on board as an engine room attendant and later qualified as auxiliary watch keeping.” She says a watch keeper is someone who knows the main engine components, the location of the engine room and its auxiliaries. It is vital that a watch keeper be aware of any situations in the engine and inform their superiors of irregularities. Watch keepers must know the ideal temperatures

“It was the first time I had worked on board a ship. It was during this period that I realised that my life was at sea. Hearing the sound of the ship’s engine and horn as we got ready to sail filled me with excitement for the journey ahead.” Some of the countries that Dladla has visited while on board include Reunion Island and Tristan da Cunha Island in the south of the Atlantic Ocean. She adds that she often missed her family while at sea, but the love of the job made it all worthwhile.

that should exist in these parts of the ships, the location

Dladla is grateful that she is serving a democratic South Africa

and function of the various components, generator

as it has meant that she has been exposed to opportunities she

engines, and their operations.

would not have previously enjoyed.

“I really enjoyed this experience because it taught me a lot about ship engines.” SAS Isandlwana (F146) is the second of four valour class frigates, which are major surface warships, of the South African Navy. Frigates are used to protect other warships and commercial marine ships. SAS Isandlwana was named after the Battle of Isandl-

Her future plans include qualifying to be a submarine escape training simulator technician operator. Submarine escape training is used to equip submariners with methods of escaping during emergencies. In this position Dladla will be responsible for all the equipment required when submariners do this training. With a passion for the sea and her country, it would appear that Dladla’s future in the SA Navy promises to be smooth sailing.

wana, which was the first major encounter in the Anglo–Zulu War between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom in 1879. In 2012 Dladla attended the SAS Wingfield Technical College in Cape Town where she studied to become a fitter and turner. “Doing the course was part of my training to become an instrument fitter as required by the SA Navy. In 2015 I completed my trade test and qualified as a fitter and

This and that What is your favourite food? I am just like any other South African, who enjoys a braai.

What is your favourite holiday destination? I love San Francisco.

What is your management style?

turner.

I have an open door policy and I listen to all sides of the story.

A love of the sea

Military Code of Conduct that guides me.

Dladla says it was while she was on board the SAS Isandlwana that her love of the sea and ships was

I also respect all the people I work with which is part of the

How do you relax? I watch a lot of rugby and athletics.

deeply entrenched.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

AN INTERVIEW WITH

JIL HRDLICZKA F O U N D E R A N D OW N E R O F K N OW L E D G E N E T W O R K Knowledge Network - a company established in 1994 for young children, teenagers and adults to learn how to use the computer as a tool for life and learning- is celebrating its 21st birthday this month. Knowledge Network is the brainchild of Jil Hrdliczka, the founder and owner of the company. We spoke to Jil about the role the company plays in upskilling our youth and educators, as well as our corporate employees - whose ongoing upskilling often determines their career successes and earning potential.

KNOWLEDGE NETWORK IS 21 THIS YEAR. HOW DID KNOWLEDGE NETWORK START? Knowledge Network started in 1994 in Rivonia as a technology centre for kids, teenagers and their parents. Children from in and around Rivonia were brought to the centre by their parents to learn how to use a computer to complete their schoolwork, to conduct research, use the Internet safely, communicate electronically, to develop their general knowledge - and for overall development. Many children joined to gain a competitive advantage in their school lives and in life after school. After a few months, parents from as far afield as Springs, Pretoria, Soweto, Lenasia, Glenvista and Magaliesburg travelled to Rivonia with their children every weekend for, in many cases, a few years. We eventually started a Club for those children who could not get to Rivonia and projects would be faxed, emailed or available via the Internet once a week. Projects were published in local magazines for other children to see. It was amazing.

HOW DID KNOWLEDGE NETWORK BECOME INVOLVED WITH SCHOOLS? Schools like St Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Preparatory School and Krugersdorp High School heard about what the children were learning from their students. The principals or IT Heads then approached us to upskill their teachers to run the same programme in their schools. Their teachers attended the learning methodology course, followed by training in the delivery of the content, which complements government and international curricula, including Cambridge and IB. The implementation of the Knowledge Network programme in the first schools was successful.

Parents, educators and the school governing body saw it as innovative and cutting edge, and most importantly it was fun for all the learners. Some of those leading schools are still implementing Knowledge Network in their schools today. The educators and the learners have been kept up to date with all the changes in technology and the technology learning tools of the day. Most importantly, they are fully equipped with the background knowledge and experience they need to apply their skills set to any technologies introduced into the learning and teaching landscape from time to time.

YOU MENTIONED EDUCATORS ARE TRAINED IN A LEARNING METHODOLOGY? WHICH METHODOLOGY IS BEING USED? The learning methodology is called ILAMM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Integrated Learning and Mentoring Methodology. I developed it in 1994 specifically for learning involving information technology. Prior to starting Knowledge Network, I started the Damelin Computer School, served as its Principal and on leaving Damelin, was a director and shareholder of the Damelin Education Group. In the time between these two projects, I developed the learning methodology. The most important aspects of the methodology are: it makes learning easy, makes learners e-learning ready, is integrated and is fun for both the educator and learner. The learning methodology enables accelerated learning and simultaneous development of IT Skills, creativity, lateral thinking, logic, problem-solving ability, life skills, listening, concentration and memory skills, research, planning and time management. ILAMM promotes active learning. Emphasis is placed on development of self-esteem, confidence building and providing learners with the coping skills they need for every learning experience. ILAMM is perfect for integrated learning, multicultural, multilingual learning environments and most learning barriers are overcome by the application of ILAMM.

K N OW L E D G E N E T WO R K | I N T E RV I E W

HOW DOES THE COSTING WORK? The implementation of the programme is affordable. There is a fee for the educator to be trained in the integrated learning methodology and on the devices and software being used by the school. Many teachers are now having to learn how to use iPads, Androids, Windowsbased tablets or computers, Macs, open source computers as well as smartphones to deliver learning. Some schools are now “bring-your-own device” institutions. Teachers who are attending Knowledge Network training programmes and who are delivering the Knowledge Network programmes in the schools are ready and able to handle any of the devices the schools have selected for their learners. Knowledge Network’s focus is using a computer/ device as a tool for life and learning – the focus is on productivity – using the tools to complete schoolwork, do research properly, complete projects, communicate and update learners on technology-related social problems like cyberbullying. Back to the costing – there is a fee for the educator to attend ILAMM, then there is a fee per learner per year (which is the same as the cost of one spare rib, chips, salad dinner per learner per year). These fees cover all the upskilling requirements for educators and learners involved in the programme.

IS THIS PROGRAMME SUITABLE FOR ALL SOUTH AFRICAN LEARNERS, INCLUDING PREVIOUSLY DISADVANTAGED LEARNERS? Knowledge Network’s slogans are “learning together, working together”, “your partner in learning”, “behind you all the way” and “we get you there”. All learners in South Africa, and other countries throughout the world, can achieve a 100% pass rate for the programme (the pass mark is 70%). We look at where the learners are currently, start there and then build to achieve the end goal.

in OTHER NEWS

Compiled by: Dorris Simpson

China to build 100 health facilities in Africa

assisting with human resources development in Africa,

The Chinese government has committed to building 100

and improving health infrastructure.

health facilities in Africa.

China will also provide scholarships and training courses

China’s Health Minister Li Bin, along with South Africa’s

to public health professionals in Africa, while both sides

Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, made the announce-

have agreed to expand their information exchanges and

ment in Cape Town recently following the second min-

cooperation with regard to major diseases.

isterial forum of the China-Africa Health Development meeting.

Minister Motsoaledi said the building of the 100 health facilities would go a long way in helping to strengthen

Minister Li said China would also continue to send medical teams to work in African countries and recruit 1 500 medical personnel over the next three years.

the continent's resources. “We regard the whole issue of Ebola, which happened in Africa, as ground zero. It exposed us as a continent, that

The two countries have committed to improving the

we have health care systems that are not strong. Now we

health systems of African countries in the post-Ebola era,

are not preparing for Ebola only, but [the] strengthening

reinforcing laboratory capacity and diagnostic systems,

of the health care system”.

SA climbs up WEF Global Competitiveness Index ranking

Gauteng announces new department The Gauteng Provincial Government has established a new department - the Department of e-Government - in an

Brand South Africa has welcomed

effort to improve service delivery, modernise the public

the 2015/16 results of the World

service and stimulate the province’s knowledge-based

Economic Forum’s annual Global

economy.

Competitiveness Index, which

This new department is mandated to implement the e-

saw South Africa rising seven plac-

Government Strategy of the Gauteng City Region, which

es from 56 to 49 of 140 countries.

seeks to, among other things, consolidate back-end sys-

Speaking about South Africa’s sig-

tems and processes to bring about better front-line service

nificantly improved performance in the

delivery to the people.

Global Competitiveness Index, Brand South Af-

“The e-Government Department will oversee the rollout

rica’s CEO Kingsley Makhubela said, “Building a country’s

of the Gauteng Broadband Network, which will connect

competitiveness is a collective endeavour involving the

all government buildings and various public service ac-

collaboration of government, business and civil society.

cess points, including Thusong Centres, urban renewal

Ultimately it involves all South Africans to coalesce around

zones and targeted economic zones,” said the provincial

this national objective.”

government.

The results of the 2015/16 Global Competitiveness Index

The Department of Finance, which was previously re-

show that South Africa has made significant improvements

sponsible for the functions of procurement, payments, fo-

in ensuring that it is a globally competitive destination,

rensic auditing, transversal human resources management

he added.

and ICT, has been disestablished.

“The report resonates with our own assessment that

“The ICT functions will be performed by the new e-Gov-

we must work towards strengthening, amongst others,

ernment Department while the rest of the functions have

the education and health sectors to ensure our sustained

been transferred to other departments.”

competitiveness. The National Development Plan outlines the steps we need to take to achieve this.” “We thank all South Africans for your contribution to building South Africa’s competitiveness and look forward

The Department of e-Government will report to the MEC for Finance Barbara Creecy and to the current head of the Department of Education, Boy Ngobeni, who became its new head effective 1 October 2015.

to further improvements in the next year,” said Makhubela.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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international relations

Compiled by: Irene Naidooo

Global leaders plot

the way forward W

orld leaders have embraced a sweeping 15-

all States. The agenda also required global partnership involving all

year global plan of action to end poverty,

stakeholders, including parliaments, local governments, civil society

reduce inequalities and protect the environ-

and academia. “No one can succeed working alone.”

ment, known as the Sustainable Development Goals. They recently met at United Nations (UN) summit for the

President Jacob Zuma said South Africa endorsed the transformative post-2015 development agenda without any reservations.

adoption of the post-2015 development agenda in New York,

He noted that the goals and targets, cover all three dimensions of

which was convened as a high-level plenary meeting of the

sustainable development and enables countries to continue seam-

General Assembly.

lessly from the MDGs.

The 70 session of the United Nations General Assembly in

The goals range from ending poverty, ensuring healthy lives, en-

New York, took place under the theme: “The United Nations

suring inclusive and equitable quality education, achieving gender

at 70 – the road ahead for peace, security and human rights”.

equality and empowering all women and girls, conserving and sus-

The UNGA is the main deliberative, policymaking and rep-

tainably using the oceans; to addressing climate change.

resentative organ of the UN. Comprising all 193 members of

“The triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality

the UN, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion

that the development agenda seeks to address is the primary focus

of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the

of the South African government and people. The goals are also

Charter of the UN.

aligned to South Africa’s National Development Plan as well as to

Titled “Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sus-

the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

tainable Development”, the agreement by world leaders on

“More importantly, the outcome document represents a victory

a set of 17 goals and 169 targets will come into effect on 1

for developing countries as it affirms that the 2030 agenda should

January 2016, replacing the Millennium Development Goals

build on the unfinished business of the MDGs.”

(MDGs) set in 2000.

The President also noted that the 2030 agenda was universal in

“We have reached a defining moment in human history,”

that the goals applied to both developed and developing countries.

said UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon prior to the unani-

“There is a clear recognition of the Principle of Common but Dif-

mous adoption of the post-2015 development framework,

ferentiated Responsibilities. This takes into account different national

describing it as “a promise by leaders to all people every-

realities, capacities and levels of development and also respects

where.”

national policies and priorities,” he added.

The goals formed an agenda “for people and the planet”, as

President Zuma said it was particularly pleasing that the 2030

well as “for shared prosperity, peace and partnership”, he said.

global agenda contained a specific goal on achieving gender equal-

It conveyed the urgency of climate action, enshrined gender

ity and empowering all women and girls.

equality and respect for the rights of all, and pledged to leave “no one behind”. “The true test of commitment to Agenda 2030 will be implementation,” he added, stressing the need for action from

All the 17 goals, including those on poverty eradication, education, health, job creation and inequality contain specific references to addressing the challenges that confront women, the youth, people with disabilities and other vulnerable sectors of society.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

The Sustainable Development Goals: •

Goal 1: End poverty in all its forms everywhere.

•

Goal 2: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.

•

Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

•

Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

•

Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

•

Goal 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

•

Goal 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.

•

Goal 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

•

Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive

•

Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries.

•

Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive,

and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation.

safe, resilient and sustainable. •

Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

•

Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

•

Goal 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

•

Goal 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial, ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation

“We now have a document which we can confidently say reflects our global development aspirations, building on the

and halt biodiversity loss. •

progress made in the past 15 years.

sustainable development, provide access to justice for

The full implementation of the 2030 Agenda will move the

all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institu-

world forward towards the realisation of the United Nations Charter vision of social progress and better standards of life in

Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for

tions at all levels. •

Goal 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and

larger freedom, as pledged at the founding of the United Na-

revitalise the global partnership for sustainable develop-

tions 70 years ago,” he said.

ment.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Provincial FocUs

Writer: Noluthando Mkhize Photographer: Siyabulela Duda

Agriculture central to a

prosperous KZN economy

ith a deep love for KwaZulu-Natal and desire to see the agricultural sector reach its

These 2 000 claims were lodged before December 1998, which was the old cut-off date for land claims.

true potential, MEC for Agriculture and Rural

In February last year Parliament passed the Restitution

Development Cyril Xaba is at the forefront of efforts to

of Land Rights Amendment Bill, which reopened the

ensure that agriculture is at the centre of the province’s

land restitution process.

thriving economy. To achieve this, young farmers have to be developed and more emphasis must be placed on agriculture,

The new deadline for land claims has been extended to 31 December 2018 and applies to anyone who was dispossessed of their property after 19 June 1913.

while those who benefit from the land-claim process must be supported to optimally use the land, he says.

Mobile offices facilitating claims A mobile Land Restitution Office launched recently by

Land claim successes

the MEC has been travelling across KwaZulu-Natal and

According to the MEC, the province is doing well with

the Eastern Cape, making it easier for affected people

regard to settling land claims.

to lodge claims.

“Of the 16 000 claims made since 1994 more than

KwaZulu-Natal only has two lodgement offi ces in

14 000 have been settled as part of the Land Restitution

Pietermaritzburg and Vryheid, which was limiting to

Programme,” says MEC Xaba.

people who wanted to lodge claims.

“We have just about 2 000 claims left to settle. Over

“With the mobile office, claimants will be able to lodge

1 000 have been researched and are waiting to be set-

their claims closer to where they live without having to

tled. We have given ourselves the task of finishing all

travel long distances.”

these claims even before we start processing the new ones.”

The mobile lodgement bus will spend three months at a time in each province.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

MEC Xaba explains that the bus is fitted with technology

virtue of their knowledge of farming.

so that claims are processed electronically. “Government is

“Beneficiaries need to understand that there is land owner-

confident that this time around the process will work much

ship and business management and these two things must be

faster because all claims will be lodged electronically.”

kept apart so that the CPAs and trusts can appoint an entity

By October 2015, more than 1 000 had been made through the mobile office since its launch in August 2015. “I would like to commend the people of KwaZulu-Natal because when they were faced with a choice between land and

to run the farm. “This also means that if there is anyone among the CPA or trust who can do the job they may be appointed to run the business entity on behalf of the trust or the CPA.”

money they chose land. This means that the province is doing well in terms of land restitution.”

Supporting land claimants MEC Xaba points out that there are challenges in commercialising land reform projects, which is why the department is supporting farmers who are new to the farming business. “One of the key factors identified in the failure of commercialising land reform projects is the lack of alignment between the pre-transfer and post-transfer activities.” The department is aware of the challenges encountered by new black farmers, he adds. “It is for this reason the department has developed a dedicated programme to support land reform in this province.” The key elements of the programme are the development of a land acquisition strategy, recapitalisation and post-settlement support. The MEC says his department, together with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the Department of Rural

Private sector involvement The private sector also has a role to play in assisting land restitution beneficiaries, notes MEC Xaba. “I would encourage the CPAs and trusts to consider leasing the land to people who will bring it to full production. At the end of the lease they will be able to learn how to run a business.”

Development and Land Reform, National and Provincial Treas-

He cites the example of the community of Nodunga in

ury and financial institutions, are taking steps in implementing

KwaDukuza, which is a semi-rural area located 70 kilometres

a comprehensive integrated finance policy.

away from Durban.

The policy will be based on specific principles, which will lead to an effective funding mechanism for land reform farmers. In the process of supporting those who have become farmers as a result of land reform, the department has made it clear that land beneficiaries need to separate between land ownership and running a farming business, he adds. “Communal Property Associations (CPAs) and trusts are land holding entities. People are not appointed to trusteeship by

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

In 2012 the Nodunga community, which has about 376 households, received 2 897 hectares of land as part of the Land Restitution Programme. The community recently signed a 10-year lease agreement with paper company Mondi to use their land. “At the end of the first 10 years of the lease the landowners can decide to take over the forestry operations by starting to plant compartments where Mondi harvested.

provincial focus

“This is one of the best ways for new beneficiaries to run

The department also offers bursaries to young people. This

a farming business. Other CPAs and trusts can learn a lot

they also do through partnerships such as one with the Dalum

from the agreement between the Nodunga community and

Academy of Agricultural Business in Denmark.

Mondi, which was facilitated by my department.” This is a good story that shows how government, the private sector and beneficiaries can work together, he adds.

The department recently sent 15 young people to Denmark for a nine-month intense agricultural training programme. The programme focuses on practical and theoretical training on the understanding of animal welfare, management of

Producing young farmers in KwaZulu-Natal

farmers, environmental protection, and sustainability, which is

MEC Xaba says the agricultural sector has ageing farmers

currently lacking under the emerging black farmers, explains

– with the average age at 63 year – and there is a need to

MEC Xaba.

produce young farmers. “Unless we invest in young people the future of agriculture

An amount of R5.5 million has been spent over the past three years to fund the programme.

in the province is seriously under threat.” The starting point, he adds, is supporting agricultural schools and ensuring that they have proper infrastructure. “We are in discussion with the Department of Education to

The future of agriculture in KZN MEC Xaba wants the agricultural sector to become the driving force of the economy in the province.

increase the number of schools offering agricultural science.

“I will be happy when we have placed agriculture at the

We want to entice young people to love agriculture. This will

centre of economic development and see it creating jobs

make our children believe that they can live on agriculture.

and improving the lives of our people.

“Agriculture is not only about looking after the land. There

“I would like to see agricultural contribution to the Gross

is engineering in agriculture, veterinary services and a num-

Domestic Product rising to where it ought to be. Agriculture

ber of disciplines that many young people are not aware of.”

is yet to reach its full potential.”

The MEC says there are plans to introduce a revitalisation

He adds that since his appointment in May last year, he has

grant to enhance infrastructure and practical education in

set out to build united, vibrant and sustainable agricultural

four agricultural schools in the province.

centres with thriving communities in balance with nature.

“The grant, among other things, aims to assist in the pro-

“Agriculture has in the past sustained most towns in Kwa-

vision of equipment and other infrastructure necessary to

Zulu-Natal and created jobs. It can once again improve the

improve the quality of agricultural education and practical

livelihood of people, especially in the rural space. This will

training.”

also improve food security. What concerns us is that South Africa has become a net importer even in key produce that we once exported.” He added that there is no reason why the country should import maize, wheat and soya when it has the best soils for the crops. “Our farmers must compete with the international market; this means we must improve technology to remain competitive,” urges the MEC. As the driving force behind agriculture and land reform in the province, the MEC and his department are planting the seeds and hoping to harvest a successful economy.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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YoUth issUes

Writer: Cecilia de Vos Belgraver

Nation of Champions project

to equip local youth

ithin 20 days of the announcement that the

entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Commonwealth Games Federation had se-

The panel convened for the announcement at The New

lected the City of Durban to host the 2022

Age Breakfast Briefing recently, comprised MEC for Econom-

Commonwealth Games, a legacy project called Nation of

ic Development Lebogang Maile, Khuzwayo, Grevemberg

Champions was developed and announced in Johannes-

and President of the South African Sports Confederation

burg.

and Olympic Committee Gideon Sam.

Explaining the rationale behind the Nation of Champions,

OPENTENDERS Madoda Khuzwayo and Nik Eberl, creator

Khuzwayo said entrepreneurship is a lonely journey. The

of a Peer-to-Peer Mentoring System, the aim of the Na-

Nation of Champions enables entrepreneurs to meet oth-

tion of Champions project is for the 2022 Commonwealth

ers who think the same way. They sign up and find other

Games to leave a lasting, positive and meaningful legacy,

young people to connect with, network with and sell to,

especially for the youth of South Africa.

he said. Khuzwayo also called for business opportunities

Nation of Champions is a “hybrid social networking

to be provided by the public and private sectors.

movement” that will provide young people with free ac-

The Nation of Champions primarily takes the form of a

cess to all kinds of courses, skills, mentorship, networking

fully fledged online university aimed at building young

and opportunities to offer services to providers involved

entrepreneurs and enabling them to take business forward,

in the Games.

said Khuzwayo.

These range from driver training to transporting the expected influx of tourists, to acting as entertainers and

Leaving a legacy

in areas ranging from construction to hospitality and

Sam, who is the chairperson of Nation of Champions, said

catering, and everything in between.

most host cities of big sports events had been left with a positive legacy.

Pure genius

He explained that the architects of the project had looked

“The concept of Nation of Champions is pure genius in its

at the National Development Plan (NDP) and other govern-

simplicity and formidable in its ambition,” said David Gre-

ment plans and seen that skills and the youth were impor-

vemberg, CEO of the Commonwealth Games Federation.

tant and that these aspects were the focus of the project.

The project is an important way to access willing, eager

At the end of the Games it is hoped that thousands would

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

have benefited and be left with a real legacy, said Sam.

spire them? Sport is an engine that can achieve many things.

Of South Africa’s population, 60 per cent is under the age

The legacy project is an example of sport and entrepreneur-

of 30. The NDP’s target is 11 million jobs by 2030. Of these, 90

ship coming together and complementing one another. En-

per cent of jobs will have to be created by small businesses,

trepreneurship can be part of sport and help power sport

said Khuzwayo. Growing entrepreneurship therefore is es-

development,” said Tovey.

sential to growing South Africa’s economy, yet Khuzwayo questioned whether the youth knew that they had to cre-

National Sports Plan

ate those 11 million jobs and carry the economy forward.

MEC Maile said the National Sports Plan addressed issues

MEC Maile pointed out that this was where the Tshepo 500

such as rolling out sports facilities and mobilising the private

000 employment creation and entrepreneurship develop-

sector, as government would never have sufficient funds

ment initiative (www.tshepo500000.co.za) came in. It is a pro-

and resources to deal with all the social problems that com-

gramme devised to assist young people with various skills,

munities faced.

including entrepreneurship opportunities, he explained. “The programme already has 27 000 young people participating. We hope to reach 100 000 by next year March,” said MEC Maile.

At local government level, the Gauteng Provincial Government has the Mabaleng programme, said the MEC. Launched in January 2015, it is about building and renovating facilities in communities and making sure that com-

The MEC commented that there was a lack of coordination

munities and schools work together because some might

between the non-government, public and private sectors

not have facilities that are available elsewhere in the com-

and that Tshepo 500 000 was about giving hope. By 2019,

munity – the aim is collaboration between schools and

Gauteng would contribute 500 000 people with skills and

communities.

entrepreneurship opportunities, and participants would be placed in companies and projects, and be used as volunteers. MEC Maile said that government agencies were rolling

The Commonweath Games

out many training and skills development programmes.

The Commonwealth Games is an international multi-

However, it was important for them to coordinate and not

sport event held every four years. There are a total of 22

duplicate their responsibilities. “The legacy project is a plat-

sports (with two multi-disciplinary sports) that include

form by which to start coordinating,” he said.

athletics, boxing and netball, and seven para-sports approved by the Commonwealth Games Federation.

Life after sport

This is the first time that a country in Africa will host

The focus of Nation of Champions is growing entrepre-

the Commonwealth Games, which attracts participants

neurship among the youth and is a direct spin-off of the

from across the 53 Commonwealth states.

2022 Commonwealth Games. How are the two linked? Is there life after sport?

Nation of Champions

Speaking from the audience during question time, for-

The Nation of Champions platform can be found at www.

mer Bafana Bafana captain and currently Technical Director

nationofchampions.com, info@nationofchampions.com or

at the South African Football Association, Neil Tovey, raised

www.opentenders.com

the issue of sport and entrepreneurship. He explained that

Visitors to the Nation of Champions website

schools and universities had to adopt programmes teach-

will find an online tender and procurement so-

ing life skills and emphasising education so that young

cial networking forum that offers assistance and

people could have a future beyond sport.

various resources to aid young entrepreneurs.

“Young people don’t know how to start. How do we in-

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

It’s all about the numbers … • • • • •

We are 19% less expensive with similar or better beneﬁts. Only 7.4% of our expenses are not for healthcare, resulting in savings of R1.2 billion – all of which is spent on better beneﬁts for members. In 2016 we will be offering 8 new preventative screening tests. Our network of 12 500 healthcare providers puts us within 10km from 90% of members. A 28.5% increase in subsidy has made GEMS even more accessible.

yougottalove

Follow your heart to true value Visit our website or your closest GEMS walk-in centre as from 1 November to choose your new benefit option for 2016. Not yet a member of GEMS? Isn’t it time you joined a winning team? If you are a Government employee and are looking for a medical scheme that puts you first, contact us on *120*4367# or visit m.gems.gov.za. Check our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/GEMS1GEMOFASCHEME to find out how you can become a member of a winning medical scheme. Please keep your PERSAL number handy when calling or sending a Facebook message. Ts & Cs and cellphone rates apply.

GEMS: the best value proposition for Government employees Efficient, cost-effective and equitable access to healthcare

Dr Guni Goolab, Principal Officer of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS), says the Scheme continues to fulfil its mandate to provide Government employees with efficient, cost-effective and equitable access to healthcare. “In the past decade GEMS has become an integral part of the South African healthcare funding landscape. It is the only medical scheme in the country that has made an impact on, and inroads into, the previously uninsured market and we continue to strive towards providing affordable healthcare cover for public service employees in South Africa,” he added. Through the years the Scheme has often been lauded for the positive impact it is having on the medical schemes industry, where it continues to set an example to employers in all sectors of the economy where there is still a need to redress past imbalances. This has been achieved through focused practice, dedication and innovation. Dr Goolab noted that GEMS continued to be the very best medical scheme option for Government employees. He highlighted a range of pertinent facts to illustrate the unique positioning of the Scheme: • When compared to other medical schemes, the GEMS benefit plans, namely Onyx, Ruby, Emerald, Beryl and Sapphire, are on average 19% less expensive, with similar or increased benefits. • At 7.4% the non-healthcare expenditure of GEMS, which includes administration costs, is substantially lower than the industry average of 11.8%. This careful management of the Scheme has resulted in savings of R1.2 billion. The funds saved by the scheme have allowed us to fund more healthcare services for you. • GEMS is now responsible for 666,755 principal members and approximately 1.8 million beneficiaries. • 54.5% of all eligible public service employees are enrolled on the Scheme. • GEMS remains the largest contributor to the overall growth of the medical scheme sector and represented 20.3% of the sector by the end of 2014. • 90% of members are within 10km of one of our 12,500 healthcare providers. • The average age of GEMS beneficiaries is 31.2. • The percentage of pensioners covered by the Scheme is 13.5%.

“Ideally, we would have wanted to reflect an even lower increase to accommodate members but for now this was unfortunately not possible. Members can however take comfort in the knowledge that the GEMS increase is at the lower end of the medical schemes industry, which is seeing increases of as much as 10.9% for the coming year,” he said. The contribution rate increases on the GEMS options are as follows: • • • • •

Sapphire – 8.90% Beryl – 8.90% Ruby – 9.25% Emerald – 9.25% Onyx – 11.15% Understanding member needs

“As a Scheme that covers 1.8 million lives, more than 300 000 of which are currently enrolled on disease management programmes, GEMS is taking an increasingly proactive route in dealing with diseases of lifestyle,” said Dr Goolab. “GEMS is re-aligning its products, services and benefits to emphasise preventative over curative interventions to reduce the risks to its members. An aggressive drive to promote preventative benefits, including screening tests and a workplace exercise and lifestyle programme, is therefore in the process of being rolled out.” One such intervention is the GEMS Workplace Exercise Programme, which is specifically designed around the needs of public service employees and is being phased in over several years. The programme, which was introduced in October 2015, aims to help public servants to become healthier and more active and is to be implemented within all interested government departments, nationwide,” added Dr Goolab. The Scheme will be introducing an array of new benefits along with a number of industry leading annual preventative care and screening test benefits to members. These include: • • • •

Contribution rate increases and benefits for 2016

•

Commenting on the scheme benefits and contribution rate increases for 2016, Dr Goolab said GEMS would be implementing an average weighted contribution increase of 9.39% during 2016, which is lower than that of 2015.

• • •

Mammograms (breast cancer screening) Bone density scans (to screen for osteoporosis) Pap smears (a screening test for cervical cancer) PSA tests (blood tests that can detect the early signs of an prostate cancer) Occult blood screening (a test to check stool samples for blood, which may indicate colon cancer or polyps in the colon or rectum) Glaucoma screening (an eye exam to detect glaucoma) Influenza vaccines Pneumococcal vaccinations

FEATURE

Writer: Amukelani Chauke

Minister Nene sets P

his sights on public procurement and spending ublic procurement is big business. The South African

Government spends about R500 billion annually on supply chain management to procure goods and

services.

“I indicated that the modernisation of supply chain manage-

ment would target better use of technology,” he said. A lot has been achieved since then.

The recently established Office of the Chief Procurement

When Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene tabled his second

Officer looks at the current procurement processes to come

Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) recently, he

up with ways to make doing business with the state more

said this crucial area of government would be modernised

efficient and effective, with little room for corruption.

to improve efficiency and root out tender corruption. He also said budgetary controls on non-essential items,

Other achievements include: •

The establishment of government’s eTender portal,

innovative procurement reforms and strengthened cost-

which provides a single point of entry to business op-

containment measures would encourage the more effective

portunities with government, which in the process en-

use of resources in the years ahead.

hances transparency and reduces the time and cost of accessing tender documents.

“In the February budget speech I emphasised the urgent need for improved efficiencies and effectiveness in public

•

Ensuring that a Central Supplier Database is operational, easing the administrative burden for business

procurement.

and government alike. More than 20 000 suppliers have registered and 9 500 have been verified since September 2015. •

The transversal contract for Learner Teacher Support Material has been completed and the highest contract price for Grade R stationery is R115, inclusive of packaging and delivery.

•

National Treasury recently launched a buying site for high-volume, low-value items, similar in design to commercial e-commerce sites, enabling supply chain management practitioners to purchase routine items through www.gcommerce.gov.za

•

A consolidated Procurement Bill is being developed to rationalise the more than 80 legal instruments, guidelines and instruction notes that currently apply.

The Minister added that a framework has been developed to standardise public procurement reporting, which is supported by a training programme for responsible officials. “Further enhancements that support small, medium and micro enterprises in the area of electric bids, quotations and technologies will be implemented in 2016/17. “Tender documents will be made user-friendly and easy to comprehend. “The number of documents needed for a tender will be

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

reduced and customised to reflect the diversity of the procurement process. “Buying a filing cabinet is different to hiring an advisor or building a school, yet our present systems do not reflect these differences adequately,” the Minister noted. Making better use of technology is important, but it is not enough. Minister Nene said that the reform of supply chain management would remain a central priority for the state. This, he explained, would help to generate short- and medium-term savings and value for money to combat corruption. Meanwhile, National Treasury said that a single Procure-

official travel would also be reduced. In addition, National Treasury would also look at bulk buying with regard to vehicles bought for Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, MECs and Mayors to curb wastage.

ment Bill is being developed to replace the more than

Through the newly established Office of the Chief Procurement

80 different legal instruments, guidelines and instruction

Officer, National Treasury would procure official vehicles in bulk to

notes that govern public procurement.

save public funds.

The Office of the Chief Procurement Officer is busy with

Hotel stays would be limited, with officials required to spend R1 300

a draft bill, which should be available for comment in

or less, including subsistence and travel, with an exception during

January 2016, National Treasury said.

peak periods when government hosts major events. Minister Nene said there was further light at the end of the tunnel

Government using less consultants, cutting costs

as far as government spending was concerned.

When the former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan tabled

tions in these categories of spending over the MTEF period, contrib-

the Medium Term Policy Statement in 2013 he said there

uting both to value for money and improved public service delivery.

was a need to curb wastage and abuse on government

“We recognise that there is not yet full compliance with these

consumption.

“Preliminary budget data indicates that there will be further reduc-

measures.

As the country’s economy continued to face head-

“The Treasury is currently revising the Cost Containment instruc-

winds, he announced measures to reign in expenditure.

tion to review thresholds and clarify its implementation, especially

At the time, Minister Gordhan issued an instruction

on expenditure related to conferences,” he said.

for government credit cards to be closed, and for cost containment measures relating to consultants, travel and

Measures to be taken against slow growth

subsistence, entertainment, catering and events to be

In February, National Treasury projected the country’s economic

implemented by all government departments.

growth for 2015 would be two per cent, down from the 2.5 per cent

This was a government-wide clampdown. Minister Nene said the measures were now starting to bear fruit. “We are now in a position to report on the impact of this reform. “Across all national and provincial departments, in the first year, a three per cent decrease was achieved in spending on consultants, a six per cent decrease in travel and subsistence and a 47 per cent decrease in catering, entertainment and events expenditure.” When the time cost containment measures were introduced National Treasury also announced spending on

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

projection from last year. Tabling the MTBPS, the Minister said the country’s economy had slowed and was projected to grow at a lower rate of 1.5 per cent in 2015, rising to 1.7 per cent in 2016. He said electricity constraints, falling commodity prices and lower confidence levels had resulted in growth forecasts being revised lower. To add to this, this year tax revenue estimates have been revised down by R7.6 billion and by R35 billion over the next three years. The Minister said he was considering whether to raise this shortfall from corporate tax or value added tax receipts, while he was taking further advice on the proposed wealth tax.

FeatUre to improve the negotiating process and reform public sector remuneration.” National Treasury said it would work with national and provincial departments to avoid any compromises on service delivery or the diversion of resources from capital budgets to pay for compensation. “Nevertheless, it is likely that the agreement will have adverse consequences for the quality and composition of public finances. “The shortfall in compensation budgets has significant consequences for public finances, absorbing resources that had been set aside for other priorities. “A moderating factor is that the number of personnel employed on government’s payroll has declined since 2012,” it said. According to the National Treasury, in March 2015 national government departments employed 402 748

Public sector wage bill

staff – down from 404 496 in March 2012.

In the meantime, government would look at reallocating funds

Most national government employees are in the

from the existing budget to fund a bulging public sector wage

Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster depart-

bill.

ments such as the police, defence and correctional

In June, government and labour unions representing public servants agreed to a seven per cent salary adjustment for the 2015/16 financial year and CPI plus one per cent in the 2016/17 and 2017/18 financial years. The growing public sector wage bill left little room for govern-

services, where employment levels have also declined over the past three years. National Treasury explained this had been offset by the expansion of managerial personnel in administrative and policy departments in central government.

ment to employ new staff, leading to a compensation budget

“A recent National Treasury review showed that across

shortfall of R12.2 billion in the current fiscal year, 20.6 billion in

13 departments analysed, 1 158 posts were added in

2016/17 and R31 billion in 2017/18, pointed out Minister Nene.

the past five years.

“The main change in the fiscal framework in comparison to the February budget arises from this year’s settlement of salary adjustments and benefits of public servants.

“Aggregate compensation across these departments more than doubled between 2008 and 2014.” The provincial staff headcount has, meanwhile, de-

“The agreement provides for additional costs of 10.1 per cent

clined from 923 553 in 2012 to 913 033 in March 2015,

this year and improvements that will be at least two percentage

with a decrease of more than 10 000 since the start of

points higher than consumer inflation in the next two years.

the current financial year.

“The shortfall in the compensation budgets is accommodated

National Treasury said it was seeking reforms aimed

in the expenditure framework, largely by drawing down on the

at strengthening a link between pay and performance

contingency reserve,” he added.

of public servants, as well as measures to improve payroll systems, simplify remuneration policies, streamline

Spending to be reallocated

bonuses and allowances, and ensure that institutional

Minister Nene said departments would need to reallocate

arrangements for collective bargaining are effective.

spending from other priorities. “For the period ahead, the improvement in compensation means that there is no room for expanding government employment. “This is not a sustainable situation. We recognise the need

“Human resources management strategies are being refined to ensure a suitable mix of frontline, technical and support staff. “There is also a need to ensure that public servants are working where they are most needed,” it added.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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FeatUre

Writer: Noluthando Mkhize

Minister Dlamini is championing the rights of vulnerable groups

outh Africa’s ef-

“Callers can also request a social worker from the Com-

forts to provide

mand Centre to contact them by dialling *120*7867#

support and pro-

from any cell phone.”

tection to its most vulnerable groups are year-round exercises that are a priority of government. This is according to Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini, who recently spoke to PSM about the 16 Days of Activism

Curbing the abuse of children To help address child abuse the department has introduced the Child Protection Register (CPR), which consist of two parts.

for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign (which

Part A includes records of abuse or deliberate neglect

runs from 25 November to 10 December) and Disability Month,

inflicted on specific children. This section also contains

which is also commemorated in November.

information that protects these children from further

For the 16 days of Activism Campaign, which is an international awareness-raising campaign, to be effective, more South Africans need to support it on a daily basis, explained the Minister. “The South African Government runs the 16 Days of Activism Campaign to make people aware of the negative impact

neglect and abuse. Part B contains a record of people who are unsuitable to work with children. The CPR also helps the department identify communities where awareness and prevention programmes are needed.

of violence on women and children and to act against abuse.

“The number of inquiries by employers and individuals

Campaigns are not effective on their own, they need to be sup-

to establish whether the names of job applicants are

ported by interventions implemented on a day-to-day basis on

included on the CPR in order to prevent such persons

the ground,” she said.

from working or having access to children, shows that

The Department of Women has also moved away from an event-

South Africans are prioritising child protection.

driven 16 Days of Activism on No Violence Against Women and

“During the 2014/15 fi nancial year the department

Children campaign to a programme that covers 365 days. Last

received 63 664 inquiries into Part B of the Register, up

year it launched the #365Days of Activism campaign through

from 41 129 in the previous financial year,” said Minister

which members of society, including men, are encouraged to join

Dlamini.

hands with government against this scourge under the theme “Count me in”.

She added that as the country raises awareness during of abuse of women and children during the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, her department would continue to

Support for victims

encourage communities to become actively involved in

One such intervention is the department’s 24-hour Gender-based

the protection of children.

Violence Command Centre, a call centre dedicated to providing support and counselling to victims of gender-based violence.

“Child abuse, neglect and exploitation continue in our country because citizens let it happen. Government can-

Between April 2014 and March this year the call centre received

not eliminate this scourge on its own; all of us must

calls related to more than 3 000 gender-based violence cases,

actively join the fight to end child abuse, neglect and

including verbal abuse, sexual harassment, indecent assault, emo-

exploitation. Government urges all South Africans to take

tional abuse and economic abuse.

a stand and do something about child abuse wherever

“The fact that more and more people are calling the Command

we see it happening in our communities.”

Centre for assistance shows our messages are reaching our people,” noted the Minister. She explained that when a caller dials the toll free number they have an opportunity to speak to a social worker for assistance

Rights of persons with disabilities Minister Dlamini said Cabinet was close to finalising the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

and counselling.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

The White Paper advocates for measures that will hold duty-bearers accountable and strengthen recourse measures for persons living with disabilities whose rights have been violated.

extent and quality of education and support that persons living with disability receive. “These services are important for full access to the learning process. We, however, believe that the policy launched by

“Government has therefore been working on strengthening

the Department of Basic Education in December 2014, which

its coordinating and consultative mechanisms, policy frame-

formalises the system of screening, identification, assessment

works and planning, monitoring and evaluation systems.

and support services in the education value chain, will address

“These actions will culminate in Cabinet approval of the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities before the end of 2015.”

these shortcomings significantly.” She added that her department was an important partner in the implementation of this policy and is working with the

During the month of November the Department of Social

departments of Health and Basic Education to ensure that

Development holds National Disability Rights Awareness

the service also extends to early childhood development

Month.

programmes.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating 60 years of the Freedom Charter: South Africa – a free and just society inclusive of all

On the right track

persons with disabilities as equal citizens”.

Another milestone in the development of persons with dis-

Minister Dlamini said prior to 1994, persons with disabilities had very little rights.

ability was the introduction of South African Sign Language to the schools' curriculum at the beginning of 2015.

“They had no recourse even if they were denied basic servic-

She said she was happy with progress being made by the

es such as education, health, rehabilitation and social grants

Department of Higher Education and Training in addressing

on the basis of race, geographical location, gender, age or

exclusion and marginalisation of students with disabilities

ability, as these were deemed privileges of a few.”

in universities, and increasingly in technical and vocational

She said this only served to stimulate persons with disabili-

education and training colleges.

ties to take action, and the release of the Disability Rights

“The establishment of Disability Rights Units at these insti-

Charter of South Africa in 1992 set the tone for how disability

tutions, tasked with coordinating and providing reasonable

was to be approached in the new democracy.

accommodation support to university students, and the avail-

“The inclusion of the equality and non-discrimination clause

ability of funding through the infrastructure grants to make

in the Bill of Rights, with discrimination on the basis of dis-

university campuses physically more accessible, is definitely

ability specifically outlawed, was the first concrete step in

yielding results.”

entrenching a rights-based approach towards disability in the new South Africa.

The department is also making steady progress in addressing discrimination against persons with disabilities. “This is thanks to, among others, the awareness campaigns

Ensuring access

that government and institutions such as the SA Human

She added that the Department of Social Development works

Rights Commission have been running focusing on the rights

in close collaboration with the Departments of Health, Basic

of all South Africans, including persons with disabilities, ele-

Education and Higher Education and Training, among others,

vating disability-related commemorative days on the national

to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to and

events calendar, and deploying persons with disabilities into

can participate fully in school and university life.

positions of leadership.”

“Whilst we acknowledge that progress has been slow in

Having persons with disabilities in positions of leadership

some regards, as one child denied access to education is

show the abilities of persons with disabilities as active par-

one child too many. We are happy to report that significant

ticipants in the economy and as contributors to governance,

progress has been made. It has been reported that there are

added the Minister.

currently more children with disabilities enrolled in ordinary community schools than in special schools.” However, the Minister said she was concerned about the

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

“This gives hope to parents of newly born children with disabilities, as it provides them with positive role models,” she pointed out.

ADVERTORIAL

Author’s frustrations blind him to Sanral’s ‘beacon of excellence’ status By Andrew Marsay

ayne Duvenage’s book, The E-toll Saga, could well be dubbed Wayne Duvenage the Middle Man– standing bravely between a corrupt government and a too-long-suffering public. Duvenage has acted as the agent who has channelled the various shades of discontent across the socioeconomic spectrum into distrust for the South African Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) and its e-toll project. This is ironic because, internationally, Sanral is viewed as a beacon of technical excellence and procurement efficiency and probity amid generally declining standards of public services in this country. Professional visitors come from highways agencies far and wide, including many Western countries, to view and celebrate Sanral’s achievements. Our own auditor-general’s reports give Sanral one of the few regular clean bills of health among government departments and agencies. Yet Duvenage has succeeded in making many people in this country see Sanral as the epitome of greed and incompetence. A less celebrated reason for calling Duvenage the Middle Man is that, although he has been courageous and dogged in pursuing his legal and civic battles, his book focuses mainly on the

relatively short period, between about 2007 and the end of 2013, during which the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) was implemented as a tolled network. The book focuses on this period from the perspective first of how it impacted on his business – he was the CEO of car rental giant Avis – and then society, generally. The beginning of the saga – how South Africa came to the decision to fund the GFIP using e-tolling – and the end of the saga, embodied in the findings of the 2014 Gauteng E-Toll Review Panel, are reported selectively (the Gauteng review report) or ignored completely (the policy and legislative context of e-tolling). The ‘beginning’ that is conspicuously missing from The E-toll Saga is the policy and legislative framework within which tolling was conceived in the early years after the first new-dispensation elections in 1994. This policy states that, in the context of limited resources, infrastructure should be paid for by users whenever there is a clear alignment between payers and beneficiaries. This policy was elaborated in the National Land Transport Transition Act of 2000 (now the Land Transport Act of 2009) to indicate that the

method of paying for infrastructure should reflect social development priorities. In the case of urban freeway infrastructure, this means that roads should be funded in a way that benefits attempts to improve public transport. Keeping metropolitan freeways ‘free at the point of use’ accelerates migration away from public transport and effectively pulls the rug from underneath what is currently the biggest programme of public transport spending in South Africa’s history. Duvenage reports his campaign only with reference to his interactions with an admittedly sometimes obtuse Sanral, but not realising that, from Sanral’s perspective, he was seeking to overthrow the whole framework of national transport policy and legislation. The ‘end’ of the saga, which the book also fails to mention, is that, in the most comprehensive review of e-tolling, the Gauteng Review Panel, while Sanral and government generally are taken to task for not taking public opinion seriously, a table is published comparing e-tolling with five packages of alternative funding proposals that Duvenage and others have said should be used for highway funding. The table shows that, in terms of their impact on low-income groups, all alternative funding packages perform worse than e-tolling alone, and all other methods of funding result in more rapidly worsening congestion on the network than in the case of (compliant) e-tolling. In addition, there are huge gaps in the ‘middle’ of Duvenage’s story. His starting point was his anger that Sanral was insensitive to the impacts of tolling on the invoicing procedures of the car rental industry. He points to the scheme’s cumbersome administrative arrangements and points to failed schemes in some other countries as evidence that the system was doomed to fail from the outset. Yet he does not mention that his own former company, Avis, is at the forefront of assisting its customers to cope with the hugely complex procedures needed to cope with the plethora of different e-tolling schemes across some 27 states in the US. His account of the legal challenges to e-tolling make for fascinating reading, even though the Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (Outa) lost in five legal challenges (with one successful interdict being overthrown on appeal). Duvenage’s take on this is that, in each ruling, the merits of Outa’s case were not adequately considered, implying that all five judges were bent by Sanral and government pressure.

His strongest technical argument against e-tolling, that the system costs are irrationally high, compared with toll revenues, takes no note of the fact that tolling is ‘buying’ the propublic transport socioeconomic benefits embodied in national transport legislation as well as free-flowing traffic. There is no mention of the cost-benefit studies that found that these and other economic benefits outweigh costs by a factor of 8:1.

“roads should be funded in a way that benefits attempts to improve public transport.” Duvenage rightly expresses concern at collusion among contractors for the GFIP and at the very high prices of the construction contracts. What he fails to mention is that the GFIP was procured at the height of the greatest construction boom in the country’s history – during which the 2010 soccer World Cup stadiums, the Gautrain network and other World Cup transport infrastructure were also constructed. The very high demand explains the very high GFIP construction prices (without excusing the collusion). The book concludes with Duvenage committing himself and Outa to sustaining the programme of civil disobedience that has seriously disabled the e-tolling venture. Taken without all the proper context, of which most readers will be unaware, his book is a compelling read and does show Duvenage to be a brave and sensitive human being. But the ironic bottom line is that his legitimate frustrations with general corruption levels in South Africa have blinded him to the fact that what he has been criticising is one of the very few exceptions to the general decline in standards of competence and probity in public service. Marsay is a transport economist with 35 year’s experience in transport infrastructure policy, planning and funding issues - marsay@mweb.co.za This article first appeared in Engineering News on 10 September 2015.

FeatUre

Writer: Irene Naidoo

President Zuma pledges

support for the media

overnment is committed to freedom of expres-

that had followed the June 16 uprising and the horrific

sion and media freedom and wants to see the

and unforgivable murder of Bantu Steven Biko in police

media industry inspire South Africans.

custody in September 1977,” he added.

This was the message President Jacob Zuma had for

The President noted that 21 years later, South Africans

members of the media, whom he met with while com-

reflect on that painful period of the country’s history

memorating Media Freedom Day on 19 October.

with both sadness and pride.

“Government will continue to promote media freedom

“We are sad because so many lives were lost and de-

and to protect the right and space for the media to report

stroyed over many decades because of an evil regime

without fear or favour as has been happening for the past

that turned South Africans against one another and

21 years of freedom,” said the President.

sowed divisions and hatred. South Africans can also take pride in the knowledge

Recalling the past

that they defeated racism and racial oppression and

The President reflected that on 19 October 1977, a “dark

brought about a new democratic order, President Zuma

cloud engulfed our country”.

said.

The apartheid regime clamped down on the media,

“We experienced the horrors of living in a society in

banning two newspapers, The World and Weekend World.

which the media could not expose wrong doing and

“They arrested the editor, the late Percy Qoboza and other journalists who were courageously exposing crimes against humanity that were perpetrated by the regime. “The clampdown took place in the climate of repression

atrocities, during the period of apartheid colonialism. “We lived in a society where people were jailed or killed for expressing their views or for demanding the democratic and free society we live in today,” he pointed out.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

The benefits of democracy

in remote areas of our country. This is another achievement

Given the harassment that the media had to endure

of democracy.

during the apartheid era, much effort was made to en-

“Government is also playing its role to further promote access

sure that their rights were protected when new demo-

to information to the poor who are not covered by commer-

cratic order was crafted.

cial media, through the government newspaper Vuk’uzenzele

“For this reason, we produced a progressive Constitu-

which reaches more than one million people a month.”

tion which guarantees our freedom and our rights. This

These platforms advance the goal of expanding access to

includes freedom of the media, expression, association,

information, which promotes and enhances democracy, he

assembly, artistic creativity, academic freedom and free-

added.

dom of scientific research. “These freedoms are however not absolute. The

Protection of State Information Bill

Constitution adds that these rights do not extend to

President Zuma also addressed the issue of the Protection of

propaganda for war, incitement of imminent violence

State Information Bill, updating the media on its status.

or the propagation of hatred based on race, ethnicity, gender or religion.” Acknowledging that information is power, President Zuma urged the media industry to ensure that all South Africans, including the poor and working class, enjoy media freedom and access to the media.

“The Bill is still under consideration and various inputs and legal opinions are being processed. I had sent the Bill back to Parliament for technical reasons and they returned it with the changes having been made. “Thereafter, further objections were received which were of a constitutional nature. The new Minister of State Security, David

“This entails ensuring that media products reflect the

Mahlobo, also requested to work further on some aspects of

lives of the majority and that they have the space to

the Bill. At the appropriate time a determination will be made

share their dreams, successes and hardships, accurately

on the way forward.”

and without prejudice.

He added that the ruling party, the ANC, had resolved at

“It means ensuring that media products inspire and

its National General Council to implement the 2007 confer-

build our country and provides our youth with role

ence resolution on media transformation, accountability and

models around whom they can build their lives,” he

diversity. This includes the proposed parliamentary enquiry

added.

on the feasibility and desirability of a Media Appeals Tribunal.

All of this is in addition to the media’s role in provid-

“We anticipate that parliament will in its deliberations, take

ing a platform to promote good governance, ethical

into account the media and freedom of expression provisions

behaviour and the fight against corruption as part of

in the Constitution of the Republic. Nothing will be done which

nation building.

is in contravention of the Constitution of the Republic,” he

“Let me reiterate that information is power. Citizens

stressed.

need information to go about their daily lives. They

The President described Media Freedom Day as a day of unity,

need to know about government services and where

saying it provided an opportunity to recommit to working

and how to access them,” he stressed.

harder together to promote access to information and the media for all.

Reaching out through radio

“It is also a day of recommitting ourselves to building a South

The President said he was pleased that the country

Africa that is truly united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic

has a growing radio sector, including community ra-

and prosperous.

dio, following the opening up of the airwaves by the democratic state. “Radio reaches millions of our people including those

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

“The achievement of this society, which we call a National Democratic Society, is the responsibility of all South Africans including the media,” he said.

ADVERTORIAL

OVERVIEW BY HOD STANLEY KHANYILE

THE EASTERN CAPE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT LEADERSHIP Globally, the posture and performance of the public sector contributes to how a government is perceived as well as to the pace of a country’s development. A friendly, facilitative, goal-oriented and proactive public service invariably enhances the image of government. In essence, our real test as public service professionals lies in our response to the diverse needs of communities. We recognise that our success depends entirely on how well we serve our clients – and nothing takes precedence over our clients’ continuing need for effective, insightful and responsive professional service. Since I joined the Department at the beginning of June this year, I have observed that although progress has been made, there are still challenges that need close monitoring by capable leadership – especially with regard to timely transfers of subsidies to our partners, Non–Profit Organisations (NPOs), which are rendering services on our behalf.

THE EASTERN CAPE’S SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS

The Eastern Cape Province has the triple imperative of eradicating poverty, unemployment and reducing inequality as they have significantly negative consequences on the current and future health and stability of our society. This is a result of a number of things, which includes a past that excluded the majority of our people from mainstream economy on the basis of race, class and gender. If these three social challenges are not addressed, they pose the greatest challenge to our democratic system of government by fuelling social discontent and it is important to take cognisance of the huge livelihood disparities between the poor and those who can afford to cushion themselves from hard economic times. The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development for this current financial year is focused on ensuring we have a developmental approach, both in strategic direction and operations.

KEY GOVERNMENT PRIORITIES:

In this year’s plans we had to be mindful of the list of priorities that we have set for ourselves as government: • T ransformation of the economy and creation of decent work and sustainable livelihoods • Building cohesive, caring and sustainable communities • Early Childhood Development (focus on anti-poverty sites) • Community empowerment for self-sustainability – with a specific focus on youth and women • Social protection with special focus on food security We cannot ignore the challenges facing families in this modern era. It is no mistake that we adopted the Family Based Development Model, a conception of Honourary MEC Ms. N Sihlwayi, whereby the family is at the centre of development. Our adoption of the Family Based Development Model is an initiative aimed at enhancing the family status and its capacity to shape the quality of life of each member.

KEY DEPARTMENTAL PRIORITIES: A) EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

It is a reality that our children still find themselves as victims of economic and social hardships. Stats SA census 2011 results indicate that the Province has the third largest number of children, with more than 2.9 million. What is of concern to us is that 53% of children in this Province live in rural areas and 7% live in informal settlements. Looking at the statistics, this is clearly a reflection of underdevelopment, especially amongst African children; there are many rural children who do not have access to good quality Early Childhood Development (ECD) services. Even though the constitution guarantees the right to education for all, we in a situation where our children’s demand for quality ECD services far exceeds our available financial resources. In efforts to enhance the development of South African children mentally, physically and emotionally, we must operate within a context that recognises the unfortunate conditions in which many young children live – far from conducive to their development. There are huge gaps between ECD centres based in urban areas versus those in rural settings. Re-addressing children’s issues must therefore be central to our own agenda. Positive and productive human life experiences require huge social and economic investment in the early childhood phase. We have resolved to engage with the Department of Education to make use of under–utilised school buildings to house ECD centres. Also, we have committed ourselves to establish food gardens in at least two ECD centres per district, prioritising the Anti-Poverty sites. This year, we have committed to fund 1660 ECD centres which will benefit 61 325 children.

B) YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

• A ssist young people to share their views and opinions on social, political, religious and cultural issues • Assist young people to develop programmes that will address their challenges • Activate participation of young people in their own development as change agents

It is a reality that youth unemployment in the Eastern Cape has averaged 41% and this is more than twice the adult unemployment rate (18.4%). The situation demands all of us to work together, inspired by a common patriotism, and recognise that no section of our population can achieve its objectives working in isolation.

Our aim as government is to engage young South Africans in Community Service activities in order to strengthen service delivery, promote nation building, foster social cohesion and assist youth to gain occupational skills necessary to access sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Africa is confronted by modern day challenges such as poverty, inequality, youth unemployment, alcohol and drug abuse, AIDS and other diseases, illiteracy, women and child abuse and the fear of other nationalities. And too often, that’s the Africa that the world sees.

Whilst today’s challenges may lack some of the intensity of the 20th century liberation struggles, Africa needs young people’s talents and creativity to find lasting solutions to our current challenges; those who are standing up and making things happen, not only in their own countries but also around the world. In our endeavour to intervene in the situation of young people, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Rhodes University on 28 April 2015 as part of the National Youth Service Programme, which will see our young people graduating with NQF level 4 and 5 in community development. Additionally we hosted Provincial Youth Camps and Dialogues in Port Alfred in September where 200 young people between the ages of 18 and 24 years took part. These dialogues and camps are designed amongst other things to: • Provide a clear indication of our commitment to seek innovative approaches to advance the cause of youth empowerment and cement our belief that today’s youth is tomorrow’s nation

C) WOMEN DEVELOPMENT

After marching through the dark midnight of deprivation and discrimination, women arrived in a society which is still characterised by both positive and negative features. The establishment and operationalisation of the Women Resource Centre in Lusikisiki is viewed as one of the strategies that will contribute towards socio-economic empowerment of women in the Province. Our plan is to replicate the Resource centre model to district level over the next five years. The establishment of the Provincial Women Development Centre represents yet another important milestone in the struggle of rural women to achieve social justice, equality and to actively participate in the economic mainstream of our society. The origin of under-representation of women in the economic mainstream of society has been largely structural, created in and through the social structures of the institutions and internalised in values and beliefs about appropriate roles and expectations. As we design our intervention programmes as government, we must be mindful of the need to establish a knowledge gateway,

CONTACT DETAILS: Corner of Hockley and Hargreaves Street, Beacon Hill, King Williams Town, South Africa, 5200 Postal address: Private Bag X0039, BISHO, 5605 Telephone: 043 605 5000

which will assist in widening the horizon for women. Access to information helps bridge a wider gap between women enterprises and markets. When ordinary women in rural communities and townships take the first risk and bold step of starting an initiative/ enterprise, information should be at their fingertips to navigate the world of any venture. Refocusing of strategic direction In moving forward, we need to focus more on ensuring that as the Department continues to grow we have adequate habitable office space for us to operate

efficiently and with diligence. It is my view that none of the intentions to deliver basic socio-economic needs are capable of attainment without a sound service culture and responsive professional service. For these reasons, we have committed to live our compelling vision which seeks to create a caring society for the protection and development of the poor and vulnerable Acknowledgement/s or Appreciation The Department, as a matter of policy and strategic direction, based its work on partnerships and the Batho Pele principles of service delivery. As a Department we are grateful for the role that our social partners, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and National Development Agency (NDA), play. It is my honest wish in spite of all the challenges before us we will be able to renew our commitment as caring and selfless public service professionals in pursuit of improving the quality of life of all people.

CONCLUSION

I believe that with passion, commitment and dedication we can continue to work towards the dramatic reduction of poverty and inequality in a manner that does not seek to speedily attain short term wins for a few, but one that provides long term benefits for all from a more equal society.

FEATURE

Writer: Amukelani Chauke

Back to basics boosts local government

hen the White Paper on Local Government was released in 1998, the then Chairperson of the White Paper Political Committee, Pravin Gordhan,

emphasised that transforming the institutions of the South African state had a specific mission – meeting the new developmental objectives which would help create a better life for all. This was a policy leap to ensure that government’s services were accessible to all after many citizens found themselves excluded from receiving basic services by the apartheid government. At the time, the White Paper was introduced with the aim of establishing a modern African state, which cares for its people; a state that requires active participation from all spheres

Minister Pravin Gordhan.

of government and administrators to deliver services in an effective way. It was with these values in mind that the White Paper was drafted, and it oversaw the transformation of local government over the years to ensure that citizens were provided with services in a caring manner.

The Back to Basics Strategy is the order of business in local government, he adds. “Back to Basics is a standing agenda item in the President’s Coordinating Council and MinMec (a meeting for Ministers

Sixteen years after the first White Paper was released

and Members of Executive Councils), where Premiers and

the political principal of the Department of Cooperative

MECs report regularly on the progress of the Back to Basics

Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Minister Gordhan,

approach in their respective provinces.

unveiled the Back to Basics strategy. It is a multi-pronged

“The municipal monthly reporting system is taking shape

approach to ensure that municipalities go back to ensuring

and an average of 181 municipalities are reporting against

that good governance is institutionalised, financial manage-

Back to Basics indicators on a monthly basis. The provincial

ment is improved and that community participation is en-

CoGTA coordination of support to municipalities has im-

hanced.

proved,” notes the Minister.

The strategy’s main goal is to ensure that municipalities

Within the first 10 months, the strategy moved into its first

introduce better systems of reporting, and that basic services

phase where short- to medium-term challenges were identi-

like fixing potholes, providing electricity and water, sanitation

fied and tackled head-on.

and collecting refuse, among others, are delivered. The Back to Basics Strategy, which was introduced in September last year, recently turned a year old. Minister Gordhan says it is a strategy that is now well known and accepted, adding that it has gained traction within and

outside of government, and has touched all municipalities.

“A promising start has been made which can serve as a foundation on which future performance can be built. “While the Back to Basics approach has had significant successes, it has not yet had sufficient impact in terms of citizens’ experience of local government,” he acknowledges.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Phase one: Areas of concern

Minister Gordhan says the Back to Basics six-month report

CoGTA views the past year of Back to Basics as the initial phase

showed that more interactions between the people and mu-

where areas of concern were identified and immediately

nicipalities were taking place.

attended to.

“All ward committees are in place and the monthly reporting

In this regard, a dual intervention approach was followed with:

information shows that most reporting municipalities held

ward committee meetings more often than quarterly.”

Multidisciplinary and interdepartmental teams working in most municipalities, focusing on developing municipal ac-

He adds that between 70 and 80 per cent of all reporting

tion plans and providing hands-on support in areas such as

municipalities indicated that they have a Complaints Manage-

financial management and human resources. Most municipali-

ment System in place. Progress has also been made to improve

ties have adopted these action plans.

service delivery.

The Minister undertaking unannounced visits to selected

An independent survey done on South Africa by the Or-

municipalities, resulting in part in the development of sup-

ganisation for Economic Cooperation Development (OECD),

port and good governance packages. Such visits occurred in

which was released in July 2015, found that “since 1994 South

Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Makana Lo-

Africa has made great progress in reducing absolute poverty

cal Municipality, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and

by rolling out social grants for pensioners, people with dis-

Mogalakwena and Oudtshoorn Local Municipalities.

abilities and children. “Access to education, housing, water, electricity and other

A government that listens

services has been greatly broadened. As a result, well-being

The first area that was looked at was community engagement,

has increased substantially.”

with a view of putting people first.

Reporting municipalities have been responding to service

In its recent presentation to Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on CoGTA, the department’s officials told Members of Parlia-

delivery failures and CoGTA is working with sector departments to set norms and standards in this regard, says the Minister.

ment (MPs) that they had found that processes and systems

Regarding electricity outages, nationally just over 40 per

for citizen engagement were generally weak in municipalities

cent of all electricity outages have been solved, in reporting

categorised as dysfunctional and at risk.

municipalities, in less than three hours.

This was mainly due to a lack of public participation policies that would guide engagements.

dressed in less than three hours, in reporting municipalities,

The department also found that the functionality of ward committees could also be improved and that few municipalities had conducted Citizen Satisfaction Surveys.

Just over 30 per cent of sewerage spillages have been adhe adds. “With reference to the delivery of free basic services, 4.9 million households, in reporting municipalities, >>

The Back to Basics strategy aims to ensure that basic services such as providing electricity and ﬁxing potholes, among others, are delivered.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

FEATURE

received free basic water each month. In addition 1.7 million

Institutionalising a culture of good governance

households in reporting municipalities received free basic

MPs were also told that governance has been identified as

electricity each month.

an area of concern. In this area, political instability and weaknesses were seen

Addressing infrastructure, capacity challenges

as the two primary causes of poor service delivery at mu-

Another area of concern CoGTA officials highlighted to MPs

nicipal level.

was related services and infrastructure, where aging infrastructure often led to service failures.

To address this a culture of good governance is being entrenched at municipalities, says the Minister.

Municipalities were also found to have generally weak techni-

Of all council meetings held, 85 per cent of reporting mu-

cal capacity in planning, project management and designing

nicipalities met the legal requirement of one council meeting

and the procuring of infrastructure meaning municipalities

every quarter.

required support to design and develop tender documents for submission to Supply Chain Management units. To respond to this challenge an InterMinisterial Task Team on Basic Services was established. Through the task team, the Department of Energy introduced a number of measures to support municipalities including:  A roll-out of a once-off programme called Mini-ADAM (Approach to Distribution Asset Management). A total of R320 million was allocated to municipalities that required immediate elec-

“In the next phase of Back to Basics we need to be more precise and practical regarding the actions which will be effective in changing the way municipalities work so that measurable improvements in citizens’ experience of local government can be achieved.”

tricity network refurbishment and upgrading to bring their networks to an acceptable operational state.  A partnership between the Department of Energy and the Development Bank of Southern Africa to enable the municipal In-

“With reference to dismissals for fraud and corruption, over the six-month period, 150 persons were dismissed from the reporting municipalities as a result of fraud and corruption.” Steps are being taken to ensure that there is sound financial management across all municipalities in all the provinces. The Back to Basics financial monitoring tool that is being implemented provides for dedicated support to municipalities receiving disclaimers, says the Minister. He adds that municipalities were addressing skills and capacity challenges.

An average of 84 per cent of reporting municipalities had filled positions for municipal managers. On average 80.9 per cent of Chief Financial Officer positions had been filled.

tegrated National Electrification Programme grant to be used as security for a loan in terms of the Division of Revenue Act.

Phase two: Looking ahead

Greater Tubatse and Mbizana will benefit from front-loading

The work that has been done so far has given CoGTA and

interventions. In addition, front-loading interventions are be-

indication of where the challenges are in the local govern-

ing planned in Umvoti Municipality, Polokwane and Greater

ment sphere, says Minister Gordhan.

Tzaneen.

“In the next phase of Back to Basics we need to be more

When it comes to water infrastructure, Minister Gordhan says

precise and practical regarding the actions which will be

the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent has a capacity

effective in changing the way municipalities work so that

building programme that ensures that technical capacity is

measurable improvements in citizens’ experience of local

developed in local government for planning, delivering, op-

government can be achieved.”

erating and maintaining municipal infrastructure.

This will require the national and provincial departments

Capacity development is implemented through various

of CoGTA to have a more hands-on approach, address caus-

programmes targeting apprenticeships, young professionals,

es rather than symptoms, carry out deeper analysis of the

experiential learning and rotating key municipal officials to

underlying causes of service delivery issues and focus on

the private sector and academia for exposure.

addressing these.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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FeatUre

Writer: Cecilia de Vos Belgraver

Picture by: Gallo Images

Minister Fikile Mbalula with the Springboks.

Minister Mbalula determined to score big on transformation

ransformation in sport remains a thorny topic of

the delivery of sport through the actions of individuals and

passionate debate in South Africa but the news

organisations that comprise the sport sector to ensure:

from government is that it is moving ahead and

•

increased access and opportunities for all South Africans – including women, persons with disabilities, youth, children

expected to gain momentum. “Transformation is about equity and access … those

and the elderly – to sport and recreation opportunities.

who are historically disadvantaged must also have ac-

•

the socio-economic benefits of sport are harnessed.

cess,” explained Minister of Sport and Recreation, Fikile

•

the constitutional right to sport is recognised.

Mbalula recently at The New Age Breakfast Briefing.

But, how can South Africa genuinely achieve mass participation?

The Minister said it was necessary to reach the level where every citizen as espoused in the Freedom Char-

Quotas: The good and bad

ter had access to sport, saying South Africa had to be-

“The strategic reasons for transformation are becoming

come an active nation.

much more important,” said Dr Basson.

Dr Willie Basson of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) and Gideon Sam, the President of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc), also participated in the discussion.

He added that the bulk of sports people have accepted morally that there needs to be change. “The strategic reason has been overlooked. In terms of representation, 84 per cent of South Africans are black Africans and 16 per cent are white, Indian and coloured.

Transformation Charter Underpinning the drive to attain transformation is the

of the population must be focused on to carry the country

Transformation Charter. Finalised in 2012, it defines

into the future?”

transformation as a “process of holistically changing

“How clever a strategist must one be to realise the bulk

“What sporting codes did in the past 20 years was define

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

generic black as black, coloured and Indian. Rugby and

grouping to monitor, according to the principles in the

cricket especially developed a demographic profile fo-

Transformation Charter, the progress towards targets in

cused on Indians and coloureds. Nothing happened in

seven key areas to bring about the necessary changes

black schools and amongst black Africans. We have set

with respect to demographic change and to maintain a

ourselves back about 20 years in terms of exploiting

good playing and performance record.

the major source of human capital. But this has been corrected,” said Dr Basson. Minister Mbalula reflected that as Minister of Sport and Recreation, the first thing he did was to determine how South Africa had fared regarding quotas. “It was decided to retain quotas and develop a scorecard. The top five federations were assessed.” The outcome was the netball, cricket, football, rugby and athletics administrators signing agreements with the Minister.

“It is a two-fold approach: create equitable access and develop a competitive sport system,” explained Dr Basson. The EPG oversees this for the Minister and reports to him on progress. Groups that have signed agreements will be assessed according to the scorecard, which has merit and punitive measures such as deregistration, said the Minister. Initially the focus was on quotas but there are many interlinked issues, said Minister Mbalula. “Government has to accelerate development, the fed-

The rationale? South Africa’s sporting bodies can help

erations must ensure their policy is implemented sincerely

bring about change by talking to the administrators of

and not as an exercise of malicious compliance.” The ap-

sporting codes, setting targets, agreeing to them and

proach is working: “Transformation has been successful

then working to meet them.

in cricket,” he noted.

Monitoring of sporting codes

“The emphasis is on school sport as that is where sports-

To ensure the process does not amount to empty prom-

men come from. They come from former Model C schools,

ises, Minister Mbalula appointed Dr Basson and his team

not township schools. There they are exposed to qual-

to carry out independent monitoring.

ity… We don’t have that now,” said the Minister. Many of

Regarding quotas, a broader approach is being taken.

“At the national sports confederation it was decided that for the Transformation Charter to move forward

the top-flight football players have not been exposed to such support.

it had to be monitored. The Minister decided that the

Dr Basson explained that the youth were like build-

best way to do this was to appoint an independent

ing blocks and that transformation at school level >>

Bafana Bafana.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

FEATURE

we give them opportunities, we give them options.” Showing the Department of Sport and Recreation’s support for the development of boxing, the Minister presented a cheque for R10 million to Boxing South Africa and the South African National Boxing Organisation at the briefing. The Minister added that he had been campaigning for the 15 per cent of infrastructure grants allocated to municipalities to be directed to his department. He pointed out that there were competing priorities in municipalities and that the infrastructure grants were not being used for sports infrastructure. The Minister said the municipal grants were calculated to amount to R2 billion annually and that he had asked to use that funding to roll out facilities at municipal level. “We were allocated R800 million, received a clean audit and are chasing a second one. We have never faltered, there is no over-expenditure. I’ve said give me some more, there is money that can be reallocated.” was essential if transformation is to reach top levels of competition and participation.

Access to facilities

“You can’t have transformed teams at the top unless there

The Minister said it was not entirely true to say there were no

are building blocks at the bottom and there is access. With-

sporting facilities. There were indeed facilities and he called

out a skills and capacity programme you’re in the wind.

for them to lower their tariffs so that people can get access

The longer we take to do this the more talent we will lose,”

to stadiums and rugby fields. Facilities should allow soccer

he said.

clubs, community development clubs and people in town-

The challenge lies in managing the building blocks. “As

ships to use them free of charge if necessary.

long as a code is run by a leadership representing a particu-

Minister Mbalula said up and coming small sports were

lar cultural grouping there will be no easy change. To bring

asking how to get equal exposure. “We have embarked on as-

about change is a major effort. As long as the EPG exists

sisting all federations in netball and boxing. A lot of work is be-

to point out things to the Minister there can be action and

ing done in partnership with the army to develop emerging

this is where the barometer came from. The EPG has forced

boxers to get them ready for the Olympics at amateur level.”

sports to determine how they will transform,” he added.

In Sam’s view, “we have the building blocks in place, a policy statement by the Minister, and the EPG is in place. What we

Funding

need now is a body on the ground to monitor that access is

“All federations get allocations from government but these

happening otherwise we will talk about the same thing in

are enough only for administration,” said the Minister, going

40 years’ time. We need to spend time on the ground where

on to thank corporate South Africa for supporting some

access isn’t happening.”

federations with resources to ensure the development trajectory’s realisation. By 2030 government would like to see all federations professionalised. The vision, said the Minister, was professional leagues for all sports. “Our plan is to diversify. Not everybody loves football and cricket. Young kids like basketball and netball. If we diversify,

“The federations have embraced change. Everything is in place; all we need is to spend time dealing with it in remote areas,” said Sam. The Minister believes sporting codes can help by developing franchises, doing developmental work, taking a comprehensive approach to school sport and ensuring players can be affirmed and not be called “quota players”.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Progress is always beyond what you see.

Join the conversation

FEATURE

Writer: Stephen Timm

IDC supports new business sectors I n a radical bid to boost the economy and produce the

each new sector selected. The assessment would contain

thousands of jobs the country needs, the Industrial De-

what inputs, infrastructure, part of the regulatory environ-

velopment Corporation (IDC) plans to support and set

ment, parts of the supply chain and players are missing or

up new business sectors, some of them from scratch.

Through a division called New Industries that it set up

need additional support to ensure that the new industry

can take off.

earlier this year, the IDC plans to help get new sectors off

Following the assessment, the IDC will engage with the

the ground by intervening to build up their respective sup-

private sector, relevant government departments and

ply chains, addressing key constraints

agencies to address these constraints in

that hold them back and forging part-

each sector.

nerships.

Some of the new industries might already

The new division is the result of an

have some traction or have been 10 years

IDC-wide restructuring exercise that the

in the making, while others could be com-

Department of Economic Development

pletely new, Fourie explained.

urged the organisation to carry out re-

He added that the IDC would continuously

cently in a bid to exact greater impact

review its objectives to ensure that it had a

from the organisation.

balanced portfolio of new industries, able to

Under Christo Fourie, the former head

meet both the long- and short-term objec-

of the organisation’s Venture Capital

tives of the organisation. The division is looking to make R300 mil-

Business Strategic Unit, the new division initially developed a list of 18 prospec-

Christo Fourie

lion in investments in new industries this financial year, with about R900 million to

tive new industries to support. This list was presented to the IDC’s executive recently, and seven of those listed have been

Fourie expects about two thirds of the portfolio to be

selected for prioritisation. These are gas beneficiation, re-

focused on growing sectors and about 10 per cent to 20

newable energy inputs for solar and photovoltaic, additive

per cent on early stage investments and believes key to

manufacturing technology (including 3D printing), indig-

each industry’s success would be if the IDC is able to attract

enous biodiversity, energy storage, fuel cells and medical

co-funders to each new sector.

devices.

The IDC’s new unit will essentially take a cluster approach,

Fourie said in deciding which sectors to back, the IDC

where the state opts to select and back certain sectors in

would consider the attractiveness of each and what com-

which the country has some kind of a competitive advan-

petitive advantage South Africa held in each of these.

tage.

The funder would consider not only each sector’s ability

Since 2007, the IDC has invested in 39 companies, 29 of

to generate financial returns but also what development

which are still in operation. Some of these are pre-revenue

outcomes each held, such as the ability to create jobs, their

start-ups that have come from first-round investments

environmental impact and the ability to generate localisa-

from the Department of Trade and Industry’s Support Pro-

tion demands.

gramme for Industrial Innovation and the Technology In-

The IDC would then conduct a value-chain analysis of

R1 billion over five years.

novation Agency.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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Writer: Stephen Timm

FeatUre

Government to go big on research and development

overnment has set itself an ambitious target of

public and private sectors by encouraging joint industry

doubling South Africa’s spend on research and

research and public-private partnerships.

development (R&D) in the coming years to grow

the economy. The National Development Plan’s (NDP) Medium Term Strategic Framework 2014-2019 sets a target of raising R&D spending to 1.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2019.

Currently, the government is the largest funder of R&D in the country, but as the economy slows and departments’ allocations from the fiscus are squeezed, the private sector will have to play a greater role in investing in R&D. But this is not going to be easy. Recently, the Minister told a R&D incentive conference in Stellenbosch that she was

While developed countries spend about three per cent of

concerned about the decline of business investment in R&D.

GDP on R&D, South Africa’s spending on it in recent years

She told delegates that private sector innovation is domi-

has never passed the one per cent mark, hitting a high of

nated by activities that are not necessarily new, adding

0.95 per cent in 2006.

that businesses spend more on acquiring new equipment

The latest figures, contained in the Department of Science

and software rather than on developing new products or

and Technology’s (DST) R&D survey released last year, places

processes. Much of this is by a small handful of businesses

the figure at 0.76 per cent for 2011/12, when the country

and a large amount of technology is imported, rather than

spent R22 billion on R&D.

homegrown.

Public-private partnerships

department is using a range of measures. These include

Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor told PSM

continuing to deploy its R&D tax incentive, better tools to

that to achieve the 1.5 per cent target, the department

help start-ups to commercialise new ideas, sector innova-

would, among other things, strengthen links between the

tion funds and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.

To get the private sector to ramp up R&D spending the

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Currently, the department is struggling through a backlog

that can develop new products and services for the econo-

of applications for its R&D incentive. The backlog began when

my. By 2019 the department wants to see over R2 billion in

the department, in October 2012, changed the rules of the

new financing secured for a portfolio of innovation initia-

incentive from one where applicants could carry out R&D

tives that it funds, including improving the performance of

and then apply to write off the full costs of it, to one where

10 000 small businesses through technology interventions.

applicants had to first get pre-approval of projects to benefit

Key to this will be the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)

from a generous new deduction of 150 per cent of R&D costs.

which is being revamped following a 2013 ministerial review

Minister Pandor said the department continued to receive

that suggested, among other things, that the agency plays

and process applications. As of 30 June, 65 per cent of ap-

a greater role in helping entrepreneurs to commercialise

plications received since October 2012 had been processed.

new ideas.

In total, 810 companies had participated in the incentive up

Minister Pandor said the agency was seeking to strengthen

to February last year, reporting R44 billion in R&D expenditure.

its position by leveraging the power of synergies and by

Of these, 81 companies reported local patents and 33 companies reported international patents, while 1 062 new products were reported by 416 companies. Clearing the backlog and meeting the target of processing applications within 90 days should drive these numbers up. The department is also hoping that its sector innovation fund programme, which is designed to incentivise industry to co-invest in R&D and innovation through sector-based industry associations, will help get business to partner with the state.

NDP aligned sectors As of March, the DST had nine such funds for various sectors aligned to the NDP including citrus, sugar, post-harvest, forestry, boat-building, aquaculture, wine, horticulture, minerals processing and paper and sugar milling.

applying multiple policy instruments. These include seed funding, specialised funding and its technology stations. TIA’s seed fund was established in 2013 to assist universities and start-ups to commercialise ideas and Minister Pandor said there were two seed funding lines in operation – one aimed at universities and another one for regional innovation agencies. So far R73 million has been invested in 173 projects across 20 universities and colleges, and about R33 million in 74 projects in partnerships with seven regional innovation agencies, with these organisations co-investing about R30 million. The department is in ongoing discussions with TIA and other innovation stakeholders to source further funding.

Investment for foreign partners

Funding and support priorities are developed by industry

Currently 15 per cent of R&D investment in South Africa

associations, which can seek help from universities, science

is from foreign partners and the department plans to also

councils and other research agencies.

develop a dedicated foreign investment strategy focused on

Minister Pandor said a number of the sectors had designed their funds to respond to declines in growth of the sectors

cooperation with partners such as international foundations and philanthropic organisations.

by investigating products or processes that will create new

The roll out of SKA makes it an apt time for the depart-

market opportunities and thereby arrest respective declines.

ment to do so. Already IBM, Cisco and Intel are involved in

In the 2014/15 financial year the department provided seed

various spin-off initiatives related to the project such as the

funding of R16 million and plans to add a further R51 million

analysis of big data, helped along by the considerable size

to the initiative this financial year, with a further R96 million

of computer processing available.

of matching funding expected to be leveraged from industry.

Minister Pandor said the impact on the South African

The funding will also help develop industry relevant Mas-

economy will be several billion rand more a year during

ters and PhD researchers and new technologies that can be

the lifetime of the telescope, which will extend over several

adopted by companies. In the past year the funds supported

decades.

about 91 postgraduate students and eight interns.

Ultimately, creating an innovation-driven economy is a long-term commitment that will take years to pay off. The

Support for start-ups

state has an important part to play, but roping the private

Another of the DST’s key priorities is to help nurture start-ups

sector in will also be key.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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FeatUre

Writer: Neo Semono

Central

Supplier Database a game-changer for procurement

n keeping true to his commitment to improving transpar-

base is to reduce duplication of effort and cost for both the

ency, efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain man-

supplier and government, while enabling electronic procure-

agement (SCM) in government, Finance Minister Nhlanhla

ment processes.

Nene recently launched the Central Supplier Database (CSD) for government.

In addition, the country’s National Development Plan speaks to the importance of a professional public service with spe-

First mentioned in the Budget Speech earlier this year, the

cific mention being made of the need for a modern public

CSD is a single database that serves as the source of all sup-

procurement system that will make a meaningful contribu-

plier information for all spheres of government.

tion to economic activity.

Speaking at the launch of the CSD in East London, Eastern Cape, Minister Nene described the database as the first step

Spending wisely

towards simplifying fragmented SCM in government.

Currently R500 billion flows through the procurement systems

“This central supplier database is the fi rst step towards

at different spheres of government annually. If spent wisely,

standardising, automating and simplifying the fragmented

said the Minister, it could be a force for the greater good for

supply chain management system and is seen as the precur-

all South Africans.

sor to procurement in government,” the Minister told those

The CSD, which went live on 1 September, presents several

attending the launch at the East London Industrial Develop-

benefits including that it will be the source of all supplier

ment Zone.

information for all organs of state.

The CSD comes at a time when there is no single consolidat-

In addition, the CSD will enable electronic procurement

ed comprehensive supplier database and as a result informa-

processes, as suppliers will only be required to register once

tion related to the compliance requirements of government

when doing business with government.

is duplicated during procurement processes. The purpose of centralising government’s supplier data-

Another key benefit is that suppliers that are in good standing on the various compliance requirements of government

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

will experience a reduction in red tape and administrative bur-

as commodities they can supply, among others. Suppliers will

den when doing business with government.

also have to produce ownership information like the name

The database will also result in standardised and electronic verification of supplier information leading to reduced fraud

and identification number of directors and association to any other suppliers.

with paper copies and manual processes. The fact that processes are automated will help in the possible reduction of

A boost for businesses

fraud, as the process is transparent, said Minister Nene.

Among those who were first to register on the CSD was Eastern

In addition, the database will allow government to more effectively implement SCM policies and practices applicable

Cape businessman Aaron Mgqueto who said that the database would greatly improve the lives of suppliers.

to suppliers, such as the 30 per cent sourcing dedicated to

“It will improve my business in that it will save me time. We

small, medium and micro-sized enterprises as announced by

won’t have to take forms to Bhisho where we have to move from

President Jacob Zuma in the State of the Nation Address earlier

office to office. Now you just sit down and do it in a professional

this year.

way and know that you are registered,” he said.

The database on which prospective suppliers can self-register

Mgqueto, who has been in the security business since 1998,

will have interfaces to the South African Revenue Service to

said the system would improve the way in which suppliers do

enable tax clearance certificate verification and the Companies

business with government.

and Intellectual Property Commission for verification of business registration and business ownership information.

A challenge that Mgqueto faced when dealing with government related to tenders.

It will also verify supplier information with the register for

“Sometimes government goes with tenders and doesn't come

tender defaulters and the database of restricted suppliers, and

back to us to inform us who has won the tender,” he explained.

will verify South African identification numbers with the Depart-

According to Chief Director: SCM ICT in the Offi ce of the

ment of Home Affairs.

Procurement Officer at National Treasury, Schalk Human, the CSD is an intervention to reduce the administration burden

How it works With the launch, prospective suppliers are now able to register on the CSD website on www.csd.gov.za. Suppliers can capture

on business. From 1 April 2016 it will be compulsory for government departments and state-owned enterprises to use the CSD.

and update their information at any time in preparation for the

“The benefit for business will be that it will reduce admin

use of supplier data through procurement and financial systems

significantly and it will make it easy for them to engage gov-

used by all organs of state from 1 April 2016.

ernment,” said Human.

Once suppliers have registered on the database and their

Regarding suppliers who are in rural areas and don’t have

information has been verified, a unique supplier number and

access to computers, Human said that these suppliers would

security code will be allocated to them.

be assisted.

In order for a supplier to register on the CSD, a valid email

“We foresee support to rural suppliers happening through

address, identity number, cellphone number and bank account

district offices, Thusong Service Centres, Small Enterprise De-

details are mandatory.

velopment Agency offices and the Post Office. They will have

When registering on the system, suppliers are also required to produce tax information as well

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

the functionality to assist the suppliers to register,” he explained.

oPinion

Continuity management can beneďŹ t government

overnment needs to join the private sector in

results as in the private sector, especially if implementa-

implementing Business Continuity Management

tion attempts to mimic that used in the private sector.

(BCM) as a means of responding to and mitigat-

The South African Constitution defines three spheres

ing threats to the continuity of operations, writes Justice

of government as distinctive, interdependent and inter-

Ntanga Nepfumbada.

related and creates other essential bodies such as entities and institutions. Understanding this relationship and the

The risk of disruption to operations remains one of the

policies that drive it is critical to the successful implemen-

silent but thorny challenges that confront both govern-

tation of BCM in the public sector.

ment and the private sector. The disruption of operations can hamper the achievement of defined goals and

Continuity programmes in government

service delivery in the case of government and profit in

If we hope to ensure continuous provision of services to

the case of the private sector.

our people, a one-size-fits-all BCM approach informed by

BCM should be on any organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s agenda, because

well thought-out standards followed in developed coun-

disruptions not only affect individual organisations but

tries may not necessarily be the silver lining for ensuring

can also shake the pillars that sustain critical matters

the continuity of services, especially with a complex, inter-

such as financial sustainability and the timely delivery

dependent and interconnected government such as ours.

of services.

International BCM standards are critical, but it is neces-

To respond to continuity challenges, organisations are

sary to consider and note our challenges and complexities

embracing BCM as a way to mitigate this risk and protect

regarding the configuration of government departments

their operations from the impact of disruptions.

and institutions, and the policies that we have created to

In South Africa BCM has been embraced mostly by the

help us achieve our aspirations.

private sector, driven by various governance instruments,

In most instances implementation of continuity pro-

such as the King III Report, with the aim of protecting

grammes is done without a carefully considered, thor-

shareholders and their interests.

ough understanding and appreciation of our government system.

BCM and service delivery

The successful implementation of a BCM programme for

Given that BCM is about ensuring the continuity of ser-

a government department does lead to the recoverabil-

vices in the midst of disruptions, government depart-

ity of operations but this might not necessarily translate

ments should all embrace BCM so that they can ensure

into the recovery of government service. Although funds

their service delivery to the public is uninterrupted.

might be spent on silo implementation our government

It is commendable that some BCM models are now

orientation, as defined in the Constitution, demands the

being adopted by government, but implementing BCM

integrated, collaborative and joint implementation of BCM

in the public sector may not necessarily yield the same

programmes.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

Understanding government: A critical starting point

stand how the system has been configured and how the

To implement an effective continuity programme, a thor-

intended outcomes.

unit’s synchronised behaviour drives the achievement of

ough understanding of government (what it was, what it

Implementing a continuity solution without an under-

is, where it is and where it is going) provides much-needed

standing of the entire system (priorities, policies, challenges

foundational information to inform the continuity processes

and national interests) would render the solution ineffectual.

and further give context to the continuity solutions pro-

This is because a government department does not achieve

posed to support the objectives of a department. A thor-

in isolation but collectively with the rest of the units in the

ough understanding also entails creating points where other

system.

government departments can connect with

Furthermore, the success of BCM programmes is

a given department so that BCM can take

determined by their impact on the achievement

place across government rather than in

of people’s aspirations as opposed to isolated

departmental isolation or silos.

recovery of the process within the defined re-

The same understanding should also

covery times.

be embraced particularly when dealing

Despite the success stories, there is one funda-

with state-owned entities. This should

mental common shortcoming in the implemen-

be guided mainly by the understanding

tation of BCM programmes. While appreciating

of government policy objectives and the

the successes in the private sector, misguided

broad mandate they are set to achieve.

attitudes towards government systems, a lack

During the initial stage of the pro-

of system understanding and lack of common

gramme, treating government as the

departure platforms for departments does and

collective institutionalisation of peoples’

may hamper the ability to implement effective

aspirations as expressed through democratic

and relevant continuity solutions aimed at achiev-

processes culminating in a series of systems, instruments

ing objectives rather than delivering on the narrow goals

and processes through which these aspirations are achieved

that cannot be translated into the achievement of societal

- assists with providing an understanding of government

aspirations.

systems. This informs continuity planning. With this in mind,

The absence of a clear understanding of a nation’s aspira-

individuals or departments tasked with the responsibility of

tions as expressed in policies and the government systems

implementing BCM can better understand the department

created to achieve those aspirations erodes the value and

not as a single unit but as one of many units in the govern-

developmental contribution that BCM can have in ensuring

ment system.

ongoing service delivery. It is therefore critical, particularly to those government

Interconnected, dependent and linked government

departments that are implementing a continuity solution, to

It is essential that before and while implementing continuity

ity requirements of individual departments but of govern-

programmes government departments be treated as units

ment as a whole.

ensure that the programme not only addresses the continu-

in a system that is interlinked, interconnected and inter-

To implement a meaningful, fit-for-purpose and effective

dependent (3Is). A lack of understanding and appreciation

continuity programme that contributes to citizens’ aspira-

of the 3Is during implementation will frustrate efforts and

tions, it is critical that the continuity programme is geared

deprive citizens of an opportunity to enjoy uninterrupted

towards building capability to ensure continuity for the

services at all times.

achievement of government’s national objectives.

Mindful of the 3Is, a great deal of work should be done by both the implementing department and the individu-

*Justice Nepfumbada is the Senior Manager: Business

als tasked with implementation to understand not only the

Continuity Management at eThekwini Municipality. He

particular department as a unit in a system but to under-

writes in his personal capacity.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Public sector appointments

Compiled by: Irene Naidoo

Mzamo Khuzwayo Chief Financial Officer, Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone Mzamo Khuzwayo has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) and will head both the finance and supply chain business units. He has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He served his articles of clerkship with Deloitte, culminating in him qualifying as a chartered accountant in 2004. Khuzwayo has a wealth of experience in various specialist areas within financial services, including lending, credit structuring, private equity and leverage and acquisition finance, having worked for large financial institutions including Nedbank, Absa and Ithala Development Finance Corporation. He has also served in senior management roles outside of mainstream financial services, primarily as head of the credit department at Corobrik, where he also held the position of acting Financial Manager and was also seconded to Kopano Brickworks Ltd as Financial Director.

Professor Edith Vries Director-General, Department of Small Business Development Professor Edith Vries has been appointed Director-General of the Department of Small Business Development. She was previously the Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Prof Vries holds a Bachelor of Social Science from Unisa and a Bachelor of Social Science Honours and a Master of Social Science, both from the University of Cape Town. She began her career as a social worker and family therapist in private practice. Between 1996 and 1999, she held the position of Community Development Director at the then National Department of Welfare, subsequently renamed the Department of Social Development. She also previously served as the Executive Head in the office of the CEO at the Independent Development Trust where she was responsible for strategic development, corporate stakeholder management, international relations and performance reporting. Professor Vries is a highly qualified international expert in various facets of human and social development, and is a leading academic researcher and management specialist. She has a proven track record of executive level leadership in the public, corporate and not-for-profit sector coupled with a distinguished academic tenure and accomplished research background as well as being a well-respected political activist.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

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health and well-beinG Food and wine

Writer: Gilda Narsimdas

Chef Siba Mtongana preps for the game S elf-confessed foodie and TV chef Siba Mtongana, 30, is

preparing some things ahead can make entertaining at

quite the dynamo in the kitchen. She grew up appreci-

home very easy and relaxed.

ating her father Mncedisi Mnwana’s efforts at growing

“You can also get good quality ready-made snacks

their own food and her mother Noliza lovingly preparing it for

because not everything needs to be cooked or made

the family.

from scratch. Buy tasty snacks like spiced nuts, a root

Mtongana went on to complete a degree in Food and Consumer Sciences. She worked as the food editor at Drum magazine where she also presented a cooking show called Cooking with Siba. But it’s her big TV break on the Food Network Channel that’s propelled this mother of two to TV chef stardom. “I was head hunted for my show Siba’s Table. Former Food Network Vice President Nick Thoroughgood and talent manager

vegetable chips, popcorn, crudités with dip and biltong platter with mixed fruit and cheese.” She adds that it also helps if you ask each person to bring along something small. “It’s common practice and very acceptable to ask people to bring a dish or snack these days.” You can try Mtongana’s quick and easy dishes the next time you’re having friends over.

Sue Walton heard of me. They called saying they were heading to South Africa and would love to meet for a possible business opportunity.” And the rest is history. She is now presenting the

Preparation: 10 minutes

second season of Siba’s Table, which airs in Africa, Europe, Middle

Cooking: 10 minutes

East, Australia, Asia and America and is also a judge on another

Serves 6

Food Network show, Chopped South Africa.

Ingredients:

She says if you’re having friends over to watch a big game, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Shopping a couple of days before or

Grilled corn salad

6 small corn cobs 2 tbsp olive oil

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp chicken stock powder

180g very fine green beans, tailed

5 cups maize meal (White Star)

1 avocado, peeled and sliced

2 tbsp melted butter

30g coriander, torn

Mix with

Dressing

1 tbsp butter

2 tbsp lime juice

375g/1½ packs of bacon

2 tsp honey

2 finely chopped onions

2 tsp tequila

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 clove garlic crushed

2 green peppers, finely chopped

4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

4 tbsp parsley, chopped

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 tbsp coriander, chopped

Method:

Method

Soak the corn in hot water for 10 minutes. Mean-

Mix the cold water with stock powder to make a stock and

while, brush the grill with olive oil.

bring to the boil. Whisk in the maize meal, adding a little at a

Remove the corn from the water and season with

time, whisk continuously to remove any lumps.

salt and pepper. Put it on to the grill for10 minutes

Using a wooden spoon stir, beating the pap against

turning often until cooked and charred.

the pan until it comes together. Reduce the

Tip

Tail beans and add them to a bowl.

heat to medium, cover and cook for 20

The bottom of the pan must

Drizzle over some olive oil, season

minutes.

with salt and pepper and toss. Get

form a tortilla-like shell that you

Stir again and cook for another 20

them into a grill basket and onto

can enjoy with jam or even a savoury

minutes until cooked. Add butter to

the grill cook for 5-7 minutes,

spread. It’s delicious and quite a treat.

sauté pan and cook the bacon, on-

turning the beans so they cook

ions and garlic for five minutes over

evenly.

a high heat, until the fat is rendered over. Add the herbs and stir. Add the ba-

Take the beans and corn off the grill

con and vegetable mix to the pap and stir in.

to cool. To make the dressing, add all the ingredients to a jar and shake to combine. Cut

Transfer into a baking tin and press down until even.

the corn kernels off the three cobs and halve the

Cut into round shapes using cookie cutters and set aside in a

rest. Place on a platter. Add the beans to a platter.

warm place until serving time.

Prepare the avocado and add to the salad. Tear the coriander and sprinkle over. Drizzle over the dressing just before serving.

Sweet sticky ribs Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes

Pap cakes Preparation: 15 minutes

Ingredients: 1,5 kg pork ribs, rinsed and pat dried

Cooking: 40 minutes Serves 8 (with a little leftover)

Marinade

Ingredients

1/2 cup soy sauce

2 litres water

2/3 cup honey >>

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

FOOD AND WINE

1/4 cup soft brown sugar

2 limes, cut into wedges

3 cm piece sliced ginger, unpeeled

About 6 ice blocks, crushed

4 garlic cloves, crushed

1 1/2 cup pomegranates

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 1/2 cup ﬁzzy or soda water

1 tsp ground cumin 1 red chilli, de-seeded, deveined and chopped

Method

water, to cover

Heat the sugar, ginger and water in a small saucepan, stir-

Garnish:

ring continuously until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer uncov-

Red chilli ﬂakes and sliced spring onions

ered for 5-8 minutes until slightly thickened and reduced in amount. Allow to cool. Divide the raspberries, mint and lime

Method

wedges between two glasses. Pour two tablespoons of the

Place the ribs in a large pot, add the rest of the ingredients

sugar syrup in each glass.

and enough water to cover. Bring to the boil and cook for 30-40 minutes until cooked and the marinade has signiﬁcantly reduced. Preheat the oven to 230 C or grill. Remove the ribs from

Using a wooden spoon or muddler, crush the mixture to release the juice, oils of the fruit and mint. Top each glass with crushed ice, ﬁll with a mixture of cold pomegranate and ﬁzzy or soda water and serve.

the pan and place on a wooden board and cut into riblets. Place on a baking tray and baste with the thickened marinade. Grill in the oven for ﬁve minutes, on the top rack, keeping a close watch over it, turning them if necessary. As the marinade has sugar in it, watch them in the oven as they can burn quickly. You can open the oven door slightly to stop from burning. Remove to a platter and scatter with red chilli ﬂakes and sliced spring onions

Virgin pomegranate mojito Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 8 minutes Serves 2

Ingredients: 1/2 cup water 5 cm piece ginger 1/2 cup castor sugar 1 cup raspberries 1/2 cup pomegranate rubies 10 mint sprigs

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

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R THE MAGAZINE FOR PUBLIC

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Financial Fitness travel

Break O

Writer: Maya Fisher-French

the debt addiction

pen up your bank statement and calculate how much of your monthly salary goes to repaying debt. Imagine if, apart from your bond, you had

no debt repayments. Think of all that money now available for savings. The reality is that we have already spent our future savings on cars, credit cards, personal loans and store cards. Rather than allowing our savings to compound and grow in value, our debt compounds and absorbs an everincreasing amount of our potential savings. Take for example a washing machine bought on hire purchase. A R2 900 washing machine financed over 24 months will cost you around R300 per month â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that comes to a total spend of over R7 000.

remains in your pocket and forms part of your savings. In comparison, by buying the washing machine on hire purchase, you pay R300 each month to the store for a full

The cost of buying on credit

two years. All your potential savings have now gone to

If rather than buying it on credit, you decided to save for

the store. They grow their profits from the money they

it by putting away that R300 instalment each month, it

make from the interest and other finance charges, and

would take you about 10 months to save the required

the money goes from your pocket to their shareholders.

R2 900. Once the machine is purchased you would be able

Their shareholders are those people who never buy on

to continue to save the R300 for either another

credit and rather invest their money in companies like

item or to put away for the future. The money

retailers and banks who make their money out of people who borrow money to fund their lifestyles. In effect, South Africans are saving in a very skewed sense, through a transfer of wealth from borrowers to investors.

We consume our savings A study by Professor Carel van Aardt, Research Director at the Bureau of Market Research at Unisa, found that while the global trend is for people to save more as their income increases, in South Africa, however, a higher income does not translate into higher savings. He found that South Africans spend far

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

more on consumption than people in other countries.

Getting credit is too easy

For example, the research showed that higher-income

One of the key differences between South Africa and

households tend to buy a new car every two years and

other emerging markets is that South Africa has a very

upgrade to new homes every five to 10 years, rather

sophisticated lending environment.

than reducing their debt.

Credit is far more available and pervasive than in other

Figures from vehicle financier Wesbank show that the

countries at a similar level of development. This could

average customer sells their car within three years. In

account for why South Africa has such a low savings

comparison, a report by CNBC found that prior to the

rate in comparison to our peers. We don’t have to save

financial crisis of 2008, the average length of time an

up for the things we want – we can have them today.

American would hold onto a car was around five years.

Unfortunately this comes at the cost of our long-term

Since the credit crisis, Americans are holding onto

financial wellness. Human nature is such that we get

their cars for even longer. Online automotive repair resource company AutoMD.

used to living a certain lifestyle,

com’s 2014 Vehicle Mileage Sur-

and we do everything in

vey found that only three per

our power to maintain it.

cent of Americans surveyed

A survey conducted by

would sell their car within

a life company found

three years, and nearly 80

that when faced with

per cent said they would

financial constraints,

hold onto their cars for 10

a household is more

years or “until it died”. When

likely to cancel their

it comes to our cars, South

policies than their DStv.

Africans are more consumerist

As individuals, we will

than the world’s most consumer-

need to start shifting our

driven nation!

mindset to understand that our

The result is that South Africans find themselves deeply indebted in their 40s and

real financial value sits in our investment account and not a luxury vehicle or

50s – a time when they should be debt free and saving

branded clothing. Only then will we start to break the

their additional income for retirement.

debt addiction.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

car reviews

Writer: Itumeleng Motuba

Test drive for a good buy

hen most people buy cars they do so in

Size counts

good faith, based solely on what the sales-

The first thing you want to know is the size of the engine.

person says and what they have read. In

Most people say that it does not matter but it is the most

some instances, the problems start when the new owner

essential part because it will determine how your car drives.

takes the car home. There may be snags with the car

Take the Juke for instance, it is has a 1.2 litre turbo engine

that the driver definitely did not see coming, making

which gives out 85kw of power and 190nm of torque. This

the car a bad buy.

means that even though it has a smaller engine because of

An easy way of avoiding these nasty surprises is by

the turbo it will perform better and will be faster than an

going on a test drive. It is a bit of extra effort but it will

ordinary 1.2 litre. If you don’t understand the car jargon then

help you make a better decision before purchasing a

ask the salesperson to explain it in layman’s terms.

vehicle. We got to test drive the new face-lifted Nissan Juke and here are a few pointers on what to do when

Fuel consumption

test driving a car:

It is important to find out how your potential ride gobbles up gas to determine how much money you will be spending on

Do your homework

fuel. The Juke, for example, is speculated at a fuel consump-

Before you go on a test drive do research on the car. The

tion of about 5.6 litres per 100 km, which is fairly reasonable.

internet is a great source for reviews from people who have already driven the car. Your research will guide

The space

you on what to look out for when you on a test drive.

The space of the car should suit your lifestyle, especially if you have a family or want to transport items in the car. Check

There are no stupid questions

whether the space in the car will be comfortable for you and

Use your time with the salesperson to ask as many ques-

passengers. Sit in the back to feel how comfortable it will be

tions as possible. They might even give you a few tips

for your passengers and check if there is enough legroom

that you might have missed while doing your research.

for everyone.

Images: www.nissanusa.com

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

The front of the car

speed sensing power steering, hands free Bluetooth connectiv-

Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the cabin. See if you

ity, push start engine and keyless entry.

can easily figure out how it functions. Also check if everything that you need – like the radio, air conditioning, Bluetooth,

Extras

cruise control, GPS and indicators – is right in front of you.

Don’t forget to ask about the extras. Some manufacturers will

You will be spending a lot of time in there if you purchase the

factor in some extras at an extra cost. This may include features

vehicle so it is only fair that it should be simple to navigate.

like a sunroof and, although most cars now come with alloy wheels, to some it is still an additional extra.

Safety It is important to consider the safety features that the car offers. This is very important because it could be a matter of life and death. You need to look out for features such as airbags, ABS, fog lights, electronic stability programme and blind spot warning system.

Specifications Be sure to find out more about the specifications of the car such as the air conditioning, climate control, parking cameras,

The warranty You need to also find out if there is a warranty and for how long. Most car manufactures offer a three-year/45 000 km service plan. Nissan has also included three-year/100 000km roadside assistance, three -year/100 000km paint and mechanical warranty and three-year/unlimited km anti-corrosion for the Juke. This will help you know how long and often you can take your car back to the manufacturer to get it fixed should it have problems during these durations. Public Sector Manager • November 2015

GrooMinG and stYle

Writer: Nicholas Francis

Homegrown fashion

makes a splash L

ocal is definitely lekker when it comes to fashion as the country boasts a number of

talented designers and brands with distinct styles. PSM takes a look at some proudly South African brands you can look out for to ensure you support home-

Mantsho long box dress, multi-colour, R840.

grown talent.

Leigh Schubert Isla pants, R750.

Habit striped tunic, black/white, R300.

Errol Arendz gladiator sandals with gold trim, R990. Gert-Johan Coetzee wrap maxi dress with sleeve detail, R1 550.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

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GrooMinG and stYle

Karma mira blouse, multi-colour, R475.

Sober tuxedo kimono t-dress, mid purple, R695.

466/64 worker jeans, pale blue, R799. C Squared formal chinos, coral, R797.

Adriaan Kuiters slimfit collar shirt, navy, R750.

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

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TRAVEL

Writer: Sam Bradley

Bromance

in big game country

hen my wife casually announced she was head-

throw from our position. It’s a potentially dangerous situ-

ing to Europe on a business trip I did what any

ation, but Bryce (our ranger) has been doing this pretty

self-respecting man would do – I began planning

much his entire life and we were in safe hands.

an equally awesome (but slightly less budget breaking) trip of my own.

escape tucked away in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve,

I contacted an old friend who I hadn’t seen in a while and we

bordering the Kruger National Park. The lodge is owned and

excitedly began plotting a dream getaway, which we termed

managed by Bryce and Nicola Landsman, and their love of

our “holiday bromance”. We were both keen to explore the

the wild is clear to see. Bryce leads many of the game walks,

Kruger Lowveld area and see what it had to offer, especially

where his knowledge of every aspect of the bush is second

the game parks. We flew into Kruger Mpumalanga Interna-

to none. Spending an evening over a beer and listening to

tional Airport in Nelspruit, and from there we booked a rental

his stories of the bush makes for a memorable experience

car to get us straight into big game country. A few clicks of the mouse and we were ready for adventure!

We are at Kambaku River Sands Lodge, a beautiful

indeed. Kambaku River Sands Lodge is a special place

Not long after, I fond myself crouch-

that is sure to steal a piece

ing behind some shrubbery, eagerly

of your heart, no mat-

watching a small herd of elephant

ter how short your visit.

drinking at a waterhole just a stone’s

Named after one of the

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

the male leopard we followed or the female cheetah we watched devouring her steenbuck kill while a hyena circled ominously. What I will say is that the rangers and trackers famous elephant bulls that used to call the area home, the

make sure every game drive is a memorable occasion. Their

lodge is equipped with every comfort including a spa and

knowledge of the park and their enthusiasm for the work

gym, while each chalet has outside showers, luxurious baths

they love is clear to see. Sadly, we didn’t spot any of the

and a porch with views out over the riverbed.

white lions for which Timbavati is renowned, but this gives

The lodge books a maximum of 20 guests, meaning that

us a much-needed excuse to return soon.

the 26 friendly staff are more than able to cater to your every

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is a 55 000 hectare ex-

whim. Best of all, there are no fences around the lodge, so

panse that forms part of the Greater Kruger Park, with no

having large game strolling through the camp and drinking

fences to prevent the animals roaming where they please.

from the swimming pool is a common occurrence (as an added precaution, guests are escorted back to their chalets by the staff after dinner).

Started in 1956, the reserve has managed to remain an untouched wilderness with minimal human disturbance. Over 40 mammal species and

Our experience of Kambaku Safari

360 bird species are to be found within its

Lodge was just as memorable. Only a

borders. Rangers are allowed to drive off-

short distance away, this lodge is unique

road when following the Big Five, and the

in that it is an eco-friendly camp totally off

rule of only three vehicles per sighting re-

the grid, relying on solar panels for power

sults in high quality and uncrowded viewing

(with a backup generator for emergencies). However, going green doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, as we relaxed in luxury with all manner of comforts during our stay.

experiences. For us the combination of luxurious lodges, the peaceful solitude of the bush and the excitement at seeing such fine animals in their natural habitat left us feeling revitalised and refreshed in no

The lodge is fenced off and is therefore more suitable for

time at all. For those looking for something a little different

young children, although there’s no shortage of excitement at

to a romantic holiday, the bromance trip where you catch up

this lodge either, as the waterhole at the bottom of the camp

with old friends comes highly recommended.

attracts all sorts of interesting creatures. The camp is run by David Hollingworth, a friendly and enthusiastic Brit who fell in love with the wild and now proudly calls Timbavati home. The eight ensuite chalets give the lodge an intimate feel, while the main lounge, with its bar and fireplace, creates a comfortable atmosphere for relaxing after game drives. The meals are fantastic, with brunch after the morning drive, high tea served in the afternoon and lavish three-course dinners after the evening drive. We quickly fell into the daily routine of game park life. The early mornings were tough at first but the sensation of being out in the bushveld with the sights, sounds and scents of nature all around make the dawn patrol worthwhile. Animals spotted on a game drive can be a bit of a lottery depending on weather, season, food supply and just plain luck. Every experience is different so I won’t boast about the

For more information: Tel: +27 15 001 7009 / +27 83 261 7091 Website: www.kambakulodge.com Email: reservations@kambakulodge.com Fax: 086 273 2295 Skype: kambakulodge1

hyena cubs we watched playing together or Ntsongwaan,

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

nice to haves

Writer: Nicholas Francis

Christmas gifts for all

he holiday period is fast approaching and with

to your high-definition TV. A handful of other online media

it comes the hunt for the perfect gifts for family

services are also available. You can stream music, videos and

and friends. PSM helps ease the stress of holiday

photos from iOS devices using AirPlay. AirPlay mirroring lets

shopping with a comprehensive gadget gift guide to help

you stream any web video to the Apple TV. Price: R1 050

you pick the right gift.

Seyvr Power Saver Wallet Micro-USB

GoPro HERO4 Black/ Music Capture those family moments in high definition. The HERO4 Black/Music edition features the most advanced GoPro ever. HERO4 Black boasts incredible high-resolution 4K30 and high-frame rate 1080p120 video optimised for professional productions. And with GoPro software, you will

For the man on the go, Seyvr is an ultra-thin leather

have all the tools you need

wallet that doubles as a phone charger. The charging

to create pro-quality videos to

wallet holds six cards and has a money clip for cash and

share on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and more. Price: R5 990

receipts, but also includes an integrated powerbank. You can charge your Android devices up to 50 per cent and

Philips Viva Airfryer

Apple devices up to 70 per cent. It even comes with a

Granny will have your favourite snacks fried quicker and with

built-in cable. Price: R899

no grease. The Philips Viva Airfryer is a hot-

Apple TV

air cooker that offers

The Apple TV allows you to stream all your video con-

a healthier alterna-

tent purchases stored in the cloud in the iTunes Store

tive to deep fat frying. It is effectively a small fan oven on your worktop. Price: R1 899

Public Sector Manager â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015

Nine Eagles Galaxy Visitor 6

Selﬁe Stick with Bluetooth remote

Boys and their ﬂying toys. Galaxy Visitor 6 quadcopter

Never miss out on the perfect photo opportunity, be it

is 2.4GHz 4 channel model quadcopter. It is

a headshot or full-length photo for Instagram,

easy to operate, steady in ﬂight, easy to control

Twitter or Facebook. This lightweight selﬁe stick,

and makes for both indoor and outdoor fun.

which comes with a remote control shutter

Price: R2 500

paired with Bluetooth, is easy to carry around and is compatible with most smartphones.

Jamie Oliver Park Charcoal Portable Braai - turquoise

Price: R189

Oregon Projection Clock The stylish clock has a slim proﬁle and a radio controlled alarm clock. The cool projection feature allows you to proGramps has a new best friend. Jamie’s park braai is

ject the time anywhere in the

the perfect fun-cooking accessory for food on the go –

room. Price: R799

whether you are heading to the park, beach or garden. Light enough to carry, the park grill is durable, tough and packed with clever features that make cooking over charcoal easy. Price: R699

JBL Flip 2 Portable Wireless Speaker Keep the family entertained wherever you go. The JBL Flip 2 Portable Wireless Speaker connects to all your Bluetooth-enabled devices to play music, audiobooks and more. Whether you are using the convenient speakerphone feature or playing your favourite songs, you will get the most out of this device with its clear, rich sound. Price: R999

Public Sector Manager • November 2015

health and well-beinG

Getting a handle on diabetes

iabetes or diabetes mellitus, impacts approximately 3.5

•

Blurred vision.

million South Africans and is one of the fastest-growing,

•

Frequent or recurring infections.

potentially fatal, non-communicable diseases. It is the

•

Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal,

•

Tingling and numbness in the hands or feet.

boils and itching skin.

fifth leading underlying natural cause of death, according to Statistics South Africa’s most recent “Mortality and causes of death in South Africa” report, and greater awareness of the condition is needed.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.

This is according to Dr Guni Goolab, Principal Officer of the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS), who says that

Useful tips to help control diabetes:

the condition, which is often lifestyle related, is increasingly com-

1. Don't miss or delay meals. The food you eat needs to balance with the insulin in your body.

mon in modern society. “Diabetes is either caused by the body producing insufficient

Monitor your blood sugar. Depending on your treatment

amounts of insulin, which is a hormone that allows your body to

plan, you may check your blood sugar level several times

use up the sugar that you eat or by the body’s failure to properly

a week or a number of times during the day. Careful

use insulin to bring down blood sugar levels,” he explains.

monitoring is the only way to ensure that your blood

“In addition to the 3.5 million South Africans who already have

sugar level remains within the correct range. It is a good

diabetes, it is believed that millions more are suffering from pre-

idea to keep a record so that you can track any changes in your blood sugar level.

diabetes, a condition whereby the body has become resistant to insulin resulting in abnormally high blood glucose levels. Over

Measure medicine carefully and take it on time.

time, this insulin resistance can damage the body, eventually

Adjust your medicine or eat additional snacks if you increase your physical activity. This will help to keep your

leading to diabetes.” There are two types of diabetes, known as type 1 and 2. Type

blood sugar levels balanced. Take your blood sugar test

1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas can no longer produce

results and the type and duration of your exercise into

insulin and can impact children and people younger than 30.

consideration.

Type 2 diabetes is caused when not enough insulin is produced

Keep a record of any low glucose reactions. This can help

or the body fails to react to it. The vast majority of diabetics are

you and your healthcare provider to identify patterns in

type 2 and many are left undiagnosed.

your hypoglycaemia and find ways to prevent them.

Dr Goolab adds that uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious health complications including blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, gangrenous limbs and stroke. Signs and symptoms associated with diabetes include: •

Unusual thirst.

•

Frequent urina-

•

Unusual weight

Carry some form of diabetes identification such as a medical identification necklace or bracelet so in an emergency others will know that you have diabetes. If you are a GEMS member and have diabetes please

contact the call centre on 086 000 4367 to find out more about the GEMS Diabetes Care Programme.

tion. Supplied by: GEMS

loss. •

Extreme fatigue or lack of energy.

Public Sector Manager • November 2015