Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

JULY | 2023

POPPY TSHABALALA

Managing Executive Public Enterprise, Vodacom Business, speaks to PSL about problem solving and the importance of public, private partnerships

CELEBRATING MANDELA DAY

Working towards a food secure world

TRAILBLAZER

IN OTHER NEWS

Professor Njabulo Ndebele

SA firefighters go to Canada to help fight the flames

2 | Public Sector Leaders | April 2023

Public Sector Leaders | April 2023 | 3

Contents

38

J U LY 2 0 2 3 | I S S U E 2 9

Editorial

46 | Presidency Budget Vote South Africa exceeds goals for investment commitment

20 | Mandela Day

Working towards a food secure future

24 | Top 5 values of Mandela

20

5 things to do on Mandela Day

38 | National Arts Festival Festival overcomes crippling challenges, shines brilliantly in upholding proud heritage

42 | Digital Transformation

Collaborative initiative to enhance education systems across Africa

44 | Government and business working together

42

Partnering with business to build the economy

Features 10 | Addressing the Nation

President Ramaphosa focuses on Mandela Month, democracy and overcoming poverty

12 | Cover Story

Digitising the public sector - Vodacom Business has the solutions

28 | Trailblazer

Prof Njabulo Ndebele: Safeguarding Madiba’s legacy

30 | Women in Leadership

Nelson Mandela Children’s Foundation CEO, Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo

32 | Lifestyle

Tourism in Cape Town and Western Cape

4 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

36 | In Other News

Fighting wildfires: SA offers expertise to Canada

50 | Regional Focus

Free State looks towards greener future

52 | Legal Matters

Creating a bullying-free workplace for all South Africans

54 | Financial Fitness

Incentivising renewable energy through tax breaks

32

54

28

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6 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

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EDITOR’S LETTER

BY FIONA WAKELIN

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

In his Letter to the Nation, written on July 10, His Excellency, President Ramaphosa focuses on Mandela Month, democracy and overcoming poverty as an act of justice -invoking the words of Madiba - “while poverty persists, there is no true freedom”.

“As we work to rebuild the economy, to create more employment and open opportunities for emerging businesses, we will continue to invest in the poorest and most vulnerable in our society. The funds we spend on social protection are not wasted; they make a real difference in people’s lives, both now and into the future,” President Ramaphosa.

It is a busy month for public sector leaders with President Cyril Ramaphosa officiating the pass-out parade, at Duttonar Military Base, Nigel. His Excellency delivered a Special Message on Innovative Health Financing at Boma 2023 and Deputy President Mashatile conducted an outreach visit in the Ehlanzeni District.

Our cover icon this month is Vodacom Business’ Managing Executive of Public Enterprise, Poppy Tshabalala, who spoke to Public Sector Leaders about the outstanding solutions they are finding to society’s challenges. The importance of a strategic relationship between the private and public sectors cannot be understated, especially given the kind of challenges South Africa is facing.

Vodacom Business stands out as one of the organisations which has built a strong relationship with the public sector, finding solutions to problems which have a direct impact on residents.

In this bumper edition of Public Sector Leaders, we include regulars such as Addressing the Nation - Letter from the Presidency - and a Calendar of Commemorative events. The Trailblazer this month is Chairman of the Mandela Foundation – Professor Njabulo Ndabele and keeping it all things Madiba, our Women in Leadership is CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children Foundation Dr Ncube-Nkomo. The Regional Focus is on greening Free State and In Other News we celebrate our Firefighters going to Canada to help with the wild fires.

This August we extensively cover Mandela Month in timeous articles such as a feature on how to celebrate this month in ways that align to Madiba’s humanity by focussing on food security. We also take a look at 5 things you can do on Mandela Day. Our National Arts Festival has bounced back after the strictures of COVID and we bring you some of this year’s winners. The important Workstream meeting that took place between business leaders and government receives special attention in this issue.

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

We hope you enjoy the read.

FIONA WAKELIN | GROUP EDITOR

ADDRESSING THE NATION

BY FIONA WAKELIN

Addressing the Nation

10 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

I

n his Letter to the Nation, written on July 10, His Excellency, President Ramaphosa, focuses on Mandela Month, democracy and overcoming poverty as an act of justice - invoking the words of Madiba - “while poverty persists, there is no true freedom”.

His Excellency recalls that in 2005, at the launch of a global anti-poverty campaign, President Mandela said that overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity: “It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.”

H.E Ramaphosa goes on to highlight the government’s social protection programmes, which have provided vital support to millions of South Africans: “As we work to rebuild the economy, to create more employment and open opportunities for emerging businesses, we will continue to invest in the poorest and most vulnerable in our society. The funds we spend on social protection are not wasted; they make a real difference in people’s lives, both now and into the future.

“Social protection in South Africa goes far beyond the provision of social grants for the elderly, children, people with disabilities and military veterans. It goes beyond the work of the Unemployment Insurance Fund, which provides income support for unemployed workers, or the Compensation Fund, which supports those involved in workplace accidents.

“It encompasses all support provided to South Africans, mainly the poor, through what has become known as the ‘social wage’. This includes the provision of free basic services, health care, basic education, higher education, social housing and transport,” – President Ramaphosa.

When debt servicing costs are excluded, more than half of government’s budget is spent on the social wage - funding free basic services to just over 11 million households. This enables poor people to access electricity, water, sanitation, and other services.

“Basic education is provided to over 13 million learners, many of whom attend no-fee schools. Health care is provided for the 50 million South Africans that don’t have private health insurance. Then there are the millions of families whose lives have been changed through the provision of subsidised housing.

“Social protection includes public and social employment programmes, which provide unemployed people with income, work experience and training opportunities. Recent programmes have shown great success as pathways for people into employment or other ways to earn a livelihood,” – His Excellency.

President Ramaphosa references a paper published in 2014 by the Brookings Institute which noted that, “social assistance may well be just what many in South Africa need, enabling them to actively pursue a job search, move out of a poverty trap, and take control of and direct their futures.” He acknowledges that this, on its own, however, will not end poverty or inequality in South Africa – what we really need is an economy that attracts investment and creates new jobs.

“Because expansion of social protection can only take place at the pace and scale the fiscus can afford, we are focused on growing our economy and developing sustainable solutions to support pro-poor spending.

“Through an integrated and comprehensive system of social support, we are not only meeting our collective responsibility to the most vulnerable in society. We are also investing in our country’s future,” – President Ramaphosa. n

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 11

COVER STORY VODACOM BUSINESS

POPPY TSHABALALA VODACOM BUSINESS, MANAGING EXECUTIVE PUBLIC ENTERPRISE

12 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

Digitising the public sector Bring us your problems - Vodacom Business has the solutions

T

he importance of a strategic relationship between the private and public sectors cannot be understated, especially given the kind of challenges South Africa is facing. Vodacom Business stands out as one of the organisations which has built a strong relationship with the public sector, finding solutions to problems which have a direct impact on residents. At the helm of these initiatives is Vodacom Business’ Managing Executive of Public Enterprise, Poppy Tshabalala, who spoke to Public Sector Leaders about the outstanding solutions they are finding to society’s challenges.

SOLVING SOCIETY’S CHALLENGES “At Vodacom Business we say to our customers, ‘Problems are inevitable. Everybody will have problems.’” says Poppy. “But we go further to say to them, ‘Bring those challenges, bring your problems to Vodacom so that we can help you to solve them, and help you to succeed.’”

Vodacom Business Public Enterprise’s work covers all spheres of the government, including state agencies and

SOEs. They are intentional in partnering with the public sector, says Poppy. The world is in the midst of a digital revolution, and the digital solutions which are emerging aren’t confined to private use, but are also having an impact on how the public sector operates to the benefit of society.

South Africa’s public sector is on a digitisation journey of its own, and Vodacom Business is coming forth to offer their experience and expertise to solve the challenges, showing what’s possible with the private-public partnerships.

“The partnerships that we have are essential to our country’s economic prospects,” says Poppy. “Vodacom Business is proud to play a part in this very important ecosystem.”

“We are proud of the relationship that we have developed with government and what we’ve managed to achieve together thus far. We are equally excited

about what the future will hold for us. And we believe that when we bring our collective capabilities, and desire to do even better for the country, we move our country forward.”

Vodacom Business’ relationship with the public sector has provided the benefit of knowing where the gaps and inefficiencies are in service delivery.

DIGITAL SOLUTIONS FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR The digital services that Vodacom Business is providing are working to great effect. Poppy shares examples of some of these services, the first of which is the Citizen Engagement platform, which “is designed to automate and enrich interactions between citizens, government, contact centres and field workers, as well as senior officials.”

“It equips the citizen to be able to easily interact with municipalities.

And for municipalities to also short circuit the time of getting

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 13

COVER STORY VODACOM BUSINESS

to - or replacing damaged infrastructure, because they get an alert before the damage gets bigger. So it also allows them to react more efficiently.”

Vodacom Business’ crime fighting application, My SAPS, has already seen almost 7 000 tip-offs being provided by the community members it connects.

Their partnership with the Department of Health allowed for the monitoring and management of the vaccine supply chain for over 4 000 clinics across the country. They’ve also supported the Department in creating the Mpilo App, which is “an interactive mobile communication platform that is strengthening the patient care experience across government health facilities.”

“I’m very passionate about talking about what we have done because it speaks directly to the issues of the country,” explains Poppy.

Their smart electricity metering system – which is currently being rolled out across the country, with

63 000 meters already installed in the past three years — is improving revenue collection in municipalities, which has the knock-on effect of further improving service delivery as municipalities have more funds to work with.

Poppy also mentions Vodacom Business’ role in the most recent provincial election processes, where they worked with the Independent Electoral Commission to implement a technological solution for voters which allowed for ballots to be cast online, a first for the country.

management side of business.

Having come in with a technical focus, she says the degree helped her quickly rise to senior management levels, in a career which has seen her working at the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Road and Transport, the Small Enterprise Development Agency and Eskom.

“Among all other things, this is a small way of demonstrating what we can do in this partnership with government, as a purpose-led organisation.”

This public sector experience is what gives her an edge when it comes to finding the right solutions.

“The main reason for me to have left the public sector at the time was to prove that the foundation of government experience in the space of ICT has equipped me to influence the provision of relevant and impactful solutions and services as a service provider to the state,” explains Poppy.

A PASSION FOR CHANGE “I always feel like my career path was actually engineered for me to end up in sales,” says Poppy. Her Master of Science and Engineering Business Management degree from Warwick University prepared her for the operational

“I always say to my team in Vodacom, if you are going to sell to government, let me hear your story. And if I don’t buy it, no-one will. Because I know exactly how it feels to be on the other side, and how you listen to someone who is selling.”

14 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

Poppy’s passion for education led her to the position of Vice-Principal of ICT at the University of South Africa (UNISA), and her role at Vodacom Business allows her to continue pursuing that passion by making an impact in the education sector.

Vodacom Business has made the admissions process easier for parents in Gauteng by hosting the Education Departments

admin system. They’ve also allowed for free e-learning which provides access to all the educational content in CAPS curriculum.

“In 2022, we partnered with the Department of Basic Education in rolling out virtual classroom solutions into some rural areas that were identified by the Basic Education Department and Icasa, across three provinces.”

“And the school management system that Vodacom uses, it’s a web-based solution that is very easy to use and it fulfils the education department’s needs for visibility in all their schools. It helps them to understand what is happening in every school, and they can do proactive maintenance in many other areas as well.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the country into a nationwide lockdown, remote learning became a necessity for higher learning institutions, and Vodacom Business - in partnership with Microsoft South Africa - met the challenge by helping the University of Johannesburg complete the academic year.

The two organisations developed the Connected Digital Education Platform, which launched in June 2020. The platform gave students and educators access to resources, apps and subsidised data bundles for continued learning.

Vodacom Business has also worked with the UNISA in equipping students with what they need to learn online, making distance e-learning more affordable. Poppy explains that this work in improving connectivity in the education sector is opening up access to quality learning. “I’m saying this because we know that the biggest challenge is in the digital divide,” she says.

“When you’re staying in areas where there’s no connectivity, it doesn’t matter whether you have money or whatever, you cannot be able to access the services.”

Through this work, Vodacom Business is reaching underdeveloped areas, where many UNISA students reside, improving general connectivity and digital literacy.

Poppy has learned that the world has yet to fully delve into the talent pool which women provide, as she stresses that there is a need to bring more women into ICT leadership positions. She calls for women in executive leadership roles to support and nurture other women in the technology sector, which will aid in improving diversity.

Poppy speaks about Vodacom Business’ partnerships with the kind of pride which shows that she loves what she does, and through her role she’s been able to positively impact South African society by bringing Vodacom Business’ expertise to the public sector, working towards a brighter tomorrow. n

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 15

ADVERTORIAL VODACOM BUSINESS

Digitally connecting local government services Vodacom Business enables digitalisation within Ekurhuleni Metro to support staff and small business suppliers to provide better services to citizens

16 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

P

roviding efficient service delivery is one of the critical challenges for South Africa’s municipalities. It requires managing sensitive data and resources both on and off-site while facing a lack of skilled resources. Digitalisation can help the public sector streamline and improve their services while leveraging connectivity solutions to benefit staff, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) suppliers and citizens, and the country as a whole.

Gauteng’s Ekurhuleni Metro, one of the biggest metropolitan municipalities in South Africa, has partnered with Vodacom Business on a digitalisation journey, which began more than eight years ago. By using Vodacom’s high-quality, fast and reliable connectivity and cloudbased solutions, Ekurhuleni Metro is streamlining service delivery while keeping staff and SMEs reliably connected.

“We’re committed to delivering a professional service to citizens and Vodacom Business’s connectivity solutions enable us to do this by responding quickly and effectively. We have less down time than ever before and can work more efficiently on a stable network,” says Mahlatsi Matshani, ICT Head of Department in Ekurhuleni, whose business renders services to the metro. “As a result, the municipality is able to experience more accountability and less network failures for better service delivery.”

“Our partnership with Ekurhuleni Metro boosts public sector resources through digitalisation as opposed to manual processing, which is inefficient and fraught with human error.

Without seamless online access to information and cloud-based tools and applications to enable work from anywhere, the public sector staff and small enterprise partners who are contracted to

the city cannot perform optimally, particularly in underserviced areas with poor connectivity,” says Poppy Tshabalala, Managing Executive of Public Enterprise for Vodacom Business.

PROVIDING SUPERIOR CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS The Vodacom Business solutions provided to Ekurhuleni municipality include alwayson Access Point Name (APN) connectivity. Providing easy access to all customised work tools and day-to-day applications through the cloud, staff, fieldworkers and councillors are able to connect remotely at home or on-site at any time, improving communications, collaboration and productivity.

Through APN’s seamless connectivity, services, from water supply to refuse removal, healthcare and more, are delivered efficiently and with limited disruption to the residents of the metro, which encompasses more than 20 large east rand towns, from Alberton and Edenvale to Springs and Tembisa.

Furthermore, this large coverage area poses no challenge, thanks to Vodacom’s expansive network.

EMBRACING A DIGITAL FUTURE Looking to the future, Vodacom Business solutions offers further opportunities for digitalisation in the metro. These include smart metering, smart security solutions, such as video surveillance, smart waste management, transportation such as traffic lights and smart facilities management. Digital technology is also assisting in addressing energy issues, water leaks and revenue collection.

“We are extremely proud to help enable digitalisation within the public sector, but our current solution is just a scratch on the surface. Working with government and other businesses of every size, we hope to use our connectivity services to help build world class digital smart cities in South Africa for the benefit of all,” concludes Tshabalala. n

APN connectivity is also bundled with Vodacom’s security services, bringing peace of mind that that data on municipal residents is not compromised and that only authorised municipal staff can access it.

SUPPORTING LOCAL SMES In addition, small businesses doing work for the metro now have greater mobility and business continuity. APN connectivity allows users to connect to Ekurhuleni’s systems throughout the metro, and therefore serve the public sector and its citizens more effectively.

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 17

South African Medical Research Council Who we are The SAMRC was established in 1969 and is dedicated to improving the health of people in South Africa, through research, innovation, development, and technology transfer. The scope of research includes laboratory investigations, clinical research, and public health studies.

We conduct research on South Africa’s quadruple burden of disease: maternal, newborn and child health, HIV/AIDS and TB, non-communicable diseases, and interpersonal violence. Our work is to acquire evidencebased information to inform health policy and practice and improve the quality and health status of people in South Africa. We are the largest local funder of health research, medical diagnostics, medical devices, and therapeutics.

We are pioneers in cutting-edge medical innovations focusing on genomic research, the development of novel treatment regimens, vaccine development, diagnostic tools, and developing new drugs and devices.

Transformation remains an integral part of building sustainable health research capacity in South Africa.

Through Self-Initiated Research (SIR) grants, the MidCareer Scientist programme, the Bongani Mayosi National Health Scholars Programme, and other programmes and platforms, the SAMRC will continue to address gender, racial, institutional, and geographic parity, and strengthen our capacity to flourish in the 21 st century. As a custodian of health research, the SAMRC is building a healthy nation through research and innovation.

mRNA technology transfer hub 23 students trained in sampling of viral RNA fragments

75% Black African trainees

50% female trainees

R50 million programme worth over 4 years

The objective of the mRNA technology transfer hub is to build capacity in low- and middle-income countries to produce mRNA vaccines through a centre of excellence and training. The mRNA Hub will share technology and technical know-how with local and global producers. The mRNA Hub and its partners creates a global common good for the benefit of all by providing a range of services along the entire vaccine value chain. The mRNA Hub is located at Afrigen, Cape Town, South Africa, and works with a network of technology recipients in low- and middle-income countries. The initiative is supported by the WHO, the Medicines Patent Pool and the Act-Accelerator/ COVAX. The South African mRNA hub comprises Afrigen Biologics, the SAMRC and Biovac, a South African vaccine producer. Within this consortium, Afrigen will establish the mRNA vaccine production technology, SAMRC is providing the research and Biovac is the first manufacturing spoke.

The Hub essentially has the following key objectives: • mRNA technology transfer to South Africa and establishment of capacity to produce clinical batches of mRNA candidate vaccines for clinical trials • Manufacturing readiness at Biovac for commercial production, Tech Transfer to international partners and training • Establishment and advancement of a vaccine development pipeline through local innovation and expertise.

SAMRC’s wastewater surveillance & research programme The South African Medical Research Council’s Wastewater Surveillance and Research Programme (SAMRC WSARP) has been tracking SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in wastewater across 80+ wastewater treatment plants in the Western

Cape, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, Gauteng, Free State and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa. To date, the trends of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater have been used as an indicator of COVID-19 presence in communities and contribute to the management of COVID-19.

Capacity development is one of the key outcomes of this programme, with partnerships established with underresourced institutions. A total of 23 students were trained in sampling and scarce skills such as the quantification of viral RNA fragments. The WSARP strives to promote transformation with 75% of trainees being Black African and 50% being female. This programme also enabled the funding of multiple honours, master’s and doctoral students registered at partner universities.

In addition to laboratory skills obtained, another part of the programme’s research output objectives is research translation through publications and stakeholder engagement.

Genomic research approach for diversity and optimising therapeutics A Framework agreement was signed on 3 February 2020 for a 4-year programme with GSK and Novartis, managed by the SAMRC. The primary focus of Project Africa GRADIENT will be to evaluate genetic diversity as the contributing factor to the way patients on the African continent respond to drugs used to treat malaria and tuberculosis. SAMRC is managing the programme on behalf of the funders for a service fee. The SAMRC launched an Africawide request for applications in African Pharmacogenetic Diversity on 18 January 2021. The programme, which is worth approximately R50M over 4 years, completed the preand full-proposal phases in 2021/22 and awards will be finalised in the next financial year.

Gender and health The SAMRC continues to reiterate its vital contribution to improving the health status and quality of life of women in South Africa by conducting high quality scientific research and leading dialogue on violence against women and how we can more effectively fight against the scourge of GBV. Female sex workers are exposed to extremely high levels of violence: A study, in which we partnered with the Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), showed that female sex workers (FSWs) are exposed to extremely high levels of violence – the previous almost three quarters (71%) had been exposed to physical violence and more than half (58%) had been raped by clients, men they encountered in the community, as well as from their intimate partners.

“However, a particularly concerning finding was that one in seven women had been raped by a policeman,” highlights the study. SAMRC research of nearly two decades reveals that intimate partner femicide is declining in South Africa.

Another recent study by the SAMRC suggests that there is a decline in the intimate partner femicide rate, while non-intimate partner femicide has remained unchanged since 2009 in South Africa – however, the country remains ranked among those with the highest rates of femicide in the world. Despite the enormous problem of femicide in our country, these findings were described as evidence of change and an indication that the country is starting to reap the benefits of many years of activism from women and community-based organisations and from Government’s policy and practice.

www.samrc.ac.za

2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) Notice: Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) All GEMS members have been sent the 2022 GEMS Annual Integrated Report containing the official notice of the 2023 GEMS Annual General Meeting (AGM) taking place virtually via the Zoom platform on Friday, 28 July 2023 at 15:00.

In accordance with GEMS Rule 29.6, the GEMS Board of Trustees requires members wishing to attend the AGM to register online by 15:00 on Friday, 28 July 2023. Please note that online registration will close at 15:00. No registration to attend the AGM will be allowed after 15:00.

Accordingly, if you wish to attend the AGM, kindly go to www.gems.gov.za, click on the relevant link embedded in the 2023 GEMS AGM section and:

Should you be unable to attend the AGM, you may appoint a proxy to attend, speak and vote on your behalf by completing the proxy form. When returning your proxy form, kindly mark it for the attention of the Principal Officer with the reference 2023 GEMS AGM Proxy. It is important to note that your proxy form must reach us by 16:00 on Friday, 21 July 2023 to be considered.

Proxy forms may be sent to: • Email: enquiries@gems.gov.za; • Fax: 0861 004 367; or • Post: GEMS, Private Bag X782, Cape Town, 8000.

Complete the online registration form by 15:00 on Friday, 28 July 2023. It is important to note that only members who have registered will be admitted to the meeting; Acquaint yourself with the Zoom user guide, which details Zoom’s functionality; and Download the Zoom software for an enhanced Zoom/AGM experience, should you prefer this to the standard Zoom/AGM web experience.

For copies of the following AGM meeting documents, kindly go to www.gems.gov.za and click on the relevant link embedded in the 2023 GEMS AGM section: • 2023 GEMS AGM Member Guide; • 2023 GEMS AGM Agenda; • 2023 GEMS AGM Proxy Form; • 2022 GEMS Annual Integrated Report; • 2022 GEMS Trustee Remuneration Report; and • 2022 GEMS AGM Action List.

We thank you for your ongoing support and look forward to seeing you at the AGM.

0860 00 4367 enquiries@gems.gov.za www.gems.gov.za

@GEMS1GEMOFASCHEME @GEMS_Number1

Use the QR Code to download the GEMS Member App

gems_sa_official Goverment Employees Medical Scheme

The Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) is an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP No 52861)

Working towards a healthier you

MANDELA DAY

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Working towards a food secure world

O

ur society is faced with a number of crises, and among the most pressing are climate change and increasing levels of poverty and inequality. It is these challenges that the Nelson Mandela Foundation looks to tackle this Nelson Mandela International Day with a call to action towards sustainability and equality.

The theme for this year’s Nelson Mandela International Day is “Climate, Food and Solidarity”.

This year, on 18 July, Nelson Mandela would have celebrated his 105th birthday, and to honour his memory, the Nelson Mandela Foundation is embarking on long-term and sustainable interventions which equip communities to take climate action that ensures food security and thus alleviate poverty and inequality.

“We need to ask ourselves if we are living up to the legacy Nelson Mandela has left us,” the Foundation said in a statement.

“This year, the Mandela Day and Outreach programme wishes to reignite the global reach of Nelson Mandela International Day through global partnerships that will host tree planting and the capacitation of home-based and community food gardens around the world.”

20 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

LACK OF ACCESS TO FOOD Around a fifth of all South Africans do not have adequate access to food.

According to Stats SA, out of almost 17,9 million households in SA in 2021, almost 80% (14,2 million) reported that they had adequate access to food, while 15% (2,6 million) and 6% (1,1 million) stated that they have inadequate and severe inadequate access to food, respectively.

The World Food Programme (WFP) defines people as being food secure when “they have availability and adequate access at all times to sufficient, safe, nutritious food to maintain a healthy and active life”.

Two-thirds of these households were in urban areas, and almost half a million of them were found in the country’s largest cities: Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Stats SA found that challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, the energy crisis, and rising costs of living make food

expensive and inaccessible to many, resulting in an increasing number of households experiencing food inadequacy and hunger.

Food insecurity can have especially dangerous implications for children.

Children who are at a high risk of acute malnutrition, which affects both physical and cognitive development. Children who suffer from malnutrition and hunger struggle to concentrate and learn, placing them in an extremely vulnerable position and ultimately perpetuating the cycle of poverty and ill health.

Child malnutrition is particularly concerning in South Africa. More than half a million (683 221) households with children aged five years or younger reported experiencing hunger, according to Stats SA. According to Children Count, a data and advocacy project by the Children’s Institute at the University of Cape Town, undernutrition is highly prevalent in South Africa. The indicator found that around 10%

of children live in households were children go hungry.

Stunting is the most common manifestation of malnutrition in South Africa, affecting 27% of children under five years old.

In addition to high levels of food insecurity, the number of households engaged in agricultural activities remains relatively low. Only around 3,1 million (17,3%) households are involved in agricultural activities, and these households are mainly located in non-metro and rural areas. About 12% of households that reported being involved in agricultural activities said that they were doing it as a main source of food, while more than three-quarters said that it provides an extra source of food for the household.

Food insecurity does not only affect South Africa. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, world hunger has increased by 150 million since 2019 (pre-COVID-19 pandemic) to 828 million people in 2021.

Asia and Africa are the worst affected continents.

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 21

MANDELA DAY

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON FOOD On a global scale, food prices have soared in recent years as a result of the war in Ukraine, supply chain disruptions, and the continued economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But a bigger risk to food security lies in our changing climate.

Global warming is influencing weather patterns, causing heat waves, heavy rainfall, and droughts – all of which impact farmers’ ability to produce crops.

The rising global food commodity prices in 2021 were a major factor in pushing approximately 30 million additional people in low-income countries toward food insecurity.

One of the dangers climate change presents is crop failure,

and this, in turn, can lead to food shortages and rising food prices.

In short, rising temperatures mean that crops will require more water. In areas of the world that are already struggling with drought or low rainfall, climate change impacts agricultural production with diminishing water supplies and increased extreme weather events such as storms and droughts.

Failing crop yields, especially in regions with high levels of poverty and food insecurity, will likely push more people into poverty.

Those who face the highest risk of food insecurity are also those who are most likely to be affected by climate change related crop failures and hunger. An estimated 80% of the global population most at risk from climate change

222 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

are in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, where farming families are disproportionally poor and vulnerable.

There is the risk that climate change could push millions more people into poverty, especially in countries where farmers often live at the edge of poverty and increasing food price impact the pockets of poor urban consumers.

WORKING TOGETHER TOWARD A NEW FUTURE Global efforts are being made to improve food security, including increasing support for climatesmart agriculture and introducing technological interventions to enhance productivity and improve the resilience of farms.

degradation of land and forests that threatens food security and the environment.

arable land, equipment and infrastructural resources, and assisting with setting up small food enterprises in the community.

The World Bank is helping countries tackle food loss and manage flood and drought risks through the distribution of improved, drought-tolerant seeds; more efficient irrigation; expanded use of forestry for farming; and conservation agriculture techniques.

However, there are solutions that we can implement on a local level in our communities.

One solution to improve food security for millions is to develop a culture of sustainable food gardens in various sites such as schools, clinics, parks and households.

Improving food availability can be achieved through capacitating small-scale farmers and gardeners and influencing city and settlement design to give people greater access to

Agroforests can safeguard food security and accelerate socioeconomic development in local communities, as well as reduce the impact of climate change by capturing carbon emissions.

Community gardens allow a group of people to come together and plant a diverse range of food in public spaces. These gardens allow the community to work together and share in the food produced by the garden – giving multiple households access to nutritious food.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation has estimated that every year that more forest disappears in Africa, it costs the continent a 3% loss of GDP.

In communities where unemployment levels are high, community gardening also provides a form of skill development and purpose for those who are unemployed.

On Nelson Mandela Day 2023, it is the vision of the Foundation that the world unites to decisively act against the intersection of climate change and food insecurity by establishing or working in community and home-based food gardens as well as planting trees. n

Another solution lies in the planting of fruit trees. This can counteract the increasing

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED IN NELSON MANDELA INTERNATIONAL DAY? Nelson Mandela International Day is an annual global celebration that takes place on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. This day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and positively impact their communities.

This year’s focus on food security and climate change has seen the Nelson Mandela Foundation championing long-term and sustainable interventions, such as community food gardens and planting one million trees.

South Africans are encouraged to give 67 minutes of their time towards changing the world for the better, just as Nelson Mandela did every day.

Here are just five ways you can contribute are:

1

Plant and grow fresh, organic and cost-effective produce in or for vulnerable communities.

2

Plant and grow trees, with an emphasis on fruit trees, to support food production for vulnerable communities.

3

Invest in sustainable food production platforms.

4

Embrace home and community planting and growing.

5

Donate your leftover and excess food to food reallocation organisations.

Source: BizCommunity / Children Count / EWN / Food For Mzanzi / Nelson Mandela Foundation / Stats SA / World Bank

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 23

MANDELA DAY

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

Mandela Day

Top 5 values of Mandela how we can align ourselves 5 things to do on Mandela Day

N

elson Mandela, an emblem of resilience and compassion, left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Mandela’s resolute commitment and values of refusing to abandon hope or give up, recognising the futility of violence, embracing forgiveness, promoting connection through shared experiences, and leaving the past behind - continue to hold significance.

As Mandela Day draws near on July 18, 2023, we are presented with a unique chance to honour his legacy by actively uplifting and empowering others.By giving a little of your time each day to making a change that’s close to your heart or by giving a little of your time to make a difference to the life of someone else, you can start changing the world around you.

There are so many ways to make a difference!

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No matter how small your action, Mandela Day is about changing the world for the better, just as Nelson Mandela did every day.

Get involved! Either start a project, campaign or event, or volunteer.

Here are some ideas to integrate Mandela’s values into our lives and provide practical ways in which we can contribute on Madiba’s birthday to make a meaningful impact within your communities.

1 Never abandon hope or give up Mandela’s life epitomised the triumph of hope in the face of adversity.

On Mandela Day, we can embody this value by supporting individuals and communities in need. One way to achieve this is by volunteering our time and skills at local organisations or charities. Whether it is tutoring disadvantaged children, assisting the elderly, or participating in community clean-up projects, our commitment to embrace unwavering hope can inspire others and foster positive change.

2 Violence is not the answer Mandela’s unwavering belief in non-violence reminds us of the power of peaceful resistance.

By actively promoting peace and understanding within your communities by engaging in dialogue, organising workshops or seminars on conflict resolution, and supporting organisations that advocate for non-violence, are effective ways to instil this value in others. By promoting peaceful means of resolving disputes, we contribute to a more harmonious society.

3 Learn how to forgive Forgiveness lies at the heart of Mandela’s transformative journey.

We can help others embrace this value by initiating acts of reconciliation. Supporting mediation programmes, facilitating dialogues between conflicting parties, or reaching out to individuals who have experienced trauma or injustice can open doors to healing and forgiveness. By guiding others towards forgiveness, we empower them to break free from the chains of bitterness and forge a path towards reconciliation.

4 Bond by sharing experiences Mandela believed in the power of shared experiences to foster unity and understanding.

The ability of shared experiences to promote unity and comprehension is a potent force. On Mandela Day, we have the ability to create circumstances that allow individuals to unite and forge valuable bonds.

Organising cultural exchange events, community picnics, or collaborative art projects encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their stories and learn from one another. By promoting empathy and bonding through shared experiences, we contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

5 Draw a line under your past Mandela’s ability to rise above his past is a testament to his commitment to progress.

We can embrace this value by supporting programmes that empower individuals to overcome adversity and rebuild their lives . Volunteering at rehabilitation centres, mentoring programmes, or initiatives that provide job skills training can offer a fresh start to those who have faced challenges. By assisting others in drawing a line under their past, we empower them to shape a brighter future.

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 25

for Humanity aims to eradicate shelter poverty on a global scale.

Volunteers will work alongside communities to construct sustainable housing solutions.

MANDELA DAY

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

We have a look at how some South African organisations are making a difference by dedicating their time to help others.

THE NELSON MANDELA FOUNDATION The Nelson Mandela Foundation, as part of its Nelson Mandela International Day initiative for 2023, continues to support communities and action against poverty and inequality.

The 18th of July 2023 will mark 105 years since the birth of the Foundation’s founding patron and on Mandela Day this year, the Nelson Mandela Foundation will initiate a global commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day along with a network of global partners who will be planting trees, and resourcing homebased/community food gardens across the world. The global celebration will follow the sun as it traverses the globe (East to West), with networks participating on the 18th of July 2023 under the theme: “Climate, Food and Solidarity”, the call to action is “It is in your hands.”

In South Africa, the Foundation and its South African partners will be capaciting a community food

garden in Diepsloot, a community north of Johannesburg.

In collaboration with their anchor partner Shoprite, the Nelson Mandela Foundation will support nine community food gardens across South Africa, one in each province.

At the Mhani Gingi Vegetable Garden in Athlone, Cape Town, focusing on activities related to soil cultivation and more.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ANNOUNCES #BUILDFORMADIBA 2023 As part of the #BuildForMadiba campaign, volunteers will once again come together across the country to construct sustainable housing solutions.

Thaba’Nchu, Khayelitsha, and Orange Farm will be the main focus areas during the five-day period from July 17 to July 23, 2023. Habitat for Humanity has set a target of building 10, 3, and 5 new homes, respectively, in these areas.

Through close collaboration with organisations such as the Nedbank Foundation, Old Mutual, Pernod Ricard, the Department of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Habitat

26 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

When asked about the feasibility of building 15 houses within a span of five days, the Interim National Director for Habitat for Humanity in South Africa explained that with adequate resources and meticulous planning, this goal can be accomplished. Each site will have up to 10 volunteers per day, and sponsor companies can contribute up to 50 volunteers.

The groundwork, including laying foundation slabs and providing training and engagement for the community and homeowners, will be completed prior to the build.

Over the five-day period, qualified construction personnel will work alongside volunteers to erect the basic structures, including the exterior and interior walls up to the roof plate.

On July 18, esteemed dignitaries, including Hon. Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi, National Minister of Human Settlements, will be invited to the Habitat for Humanity South Africa location in Thaba’Nchu to spend 67 minutes assisting with the construction of homes.

PINKDRIVE CAMPAIGN PinkDrive will be providing free mammograms and papsmears at a community clinic. These services will be available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, where other initiatives will also be taking place.

To add some much-needed comfort on freezing mornings, Vumatel, will be providing tea and coffee to patients in Johannesburg.

TOP CLICK MEDIA Digital marketing agency, Top Click Media, is deeply committed to honouring the legacy of Nelson Mandela through community

service and engagement. This year, they are planning to dedicate 67 minutes (or more) of their team’s time to provide pro bono digital marketing services for a local nonprofit or charity. This initiative will involve helping them set up a social media campaign, improve their website’s SEO, or develop a content strategy, depending on their specific needs.

This initiative is a key part of the corporate social responsibility programme, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community and fostering digital literacy. They believe that these activities not only honour the spirit of Mandela Day but also align with their agency’s mission to empower organisations through effective digital marketing.

PROJECT FLAMINGO Project Flamingo will make history in performing their most breast cancer surgeries in a single day.

Project Flamingo, a South African breast cancer NGO dedicated to providing life-saving surgeries, is set to achieve a remarkable milestone in its organisation’s history. On Saturday 15 July 2023, they will attempt an unprecedented effort by performing their highest number of breast cancer surgeries in a single day. This monumental endeavour, in support of Mandela Day, will take place at four public hospitals in the Western & Eastern Cape, impacting the lives of 27 individuals.

Town), George Hospital (George), Cecilia Makiwane Hospital (East London), and Livingstone Hospital (Gqeberha).

Contributing their expertise and time will make a significant difference in the lives of South African breast cancer patients.

“We always stand in awe of the generosity and kindness that is so typical of South Africans.

Give us a problem, and we will find a solution,” says Dr. Liana Roodt, Co-Founder & Director of this initiative. “Project Flamingo is the ultimate example of what can be achieved if people share a common vision and goal - from highly qualified professionals offering their time and skill as volunteers, to the ordinary citizen making a small monetary contribution, packing a pamper pack or even just telling our story. At Project Flamingo, the true spirit of Mandela Day is alive and well,” she said.

KELLOG’S SOUTH AFRICA To honour the legacy of this great leader, Kellogg’s in partnership with DHL will spend the morning serving breakfast to patients and nurses at Daveyton East Clinic in the East Rand, Johannesburg.This call to action aligns with Kellogg’s vision of a good and just world, where people are not just fed but fulfilled, and a mission of creating better days and a place at the table for everyone,

through our trusted food brand,” says, Zandile Mposelwa, Corporate Affairs Director, Kellogg South Africa.

As part of DHL’s drive to give back to local communities we are honoured to partner up with Kellogg’s this Mandela Day. As Nelson Mandela once said “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return” says Bremer Pauw, Managing Director: Africa, DHL Supply Chain.

KEEPING THE MADIBA MAGIC ALIVE Each and every one of us possesses the power to uphold Nelson Mandela’s principles and uplift our communities.

By sustaining a resilient spirit of hope, renouncing violence, cultivating forgiveness, fostering connections through shared experiences, and assisting others in moving beyond their past, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals. Let us seize this opportunity to wholeheartedly embrace these values and take decisive actions towards constructing a society that is characterised by compassion, fairness, and unity. In doing so, we not only keep the timeless legacy of Nelson Mandela alive but also actively contribute to his vision of a world that is improved and harmonious. n

The success of this initiative is made possible by the generous donations of supporting funders, public donations, and the unwavering commitment of dedicated core teams of volunteer doctors and anaesthetists. These individuals, together with nursing & operational staff, will team up to provide life-saving surgeries at Groote Schuur Hospital (Cape Source: The Nelson Mandela Foundation / PinkDrive / Top Click Media / FIVESTAR PR on behalf of PROJECT FLAMINGO / Alfa Destiny Communication

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 27

TRAILBLAZER: PROFESSOR NJABULO NDEBELE

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Prof Njabulo Ndebele: Safeguarding Mabiba’s legacy

A

s chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Prof Njabulo Ndebele is one of the influential figures tasked with keeping the legacy of the late Nelson Mandela alive.

An award-winning author, he has published fiction and essays to critical acclaim. He has also been honoured for his contribution to the academic world and has received honorary doctorates

from universities in South Africa, the United States, Japan, Europe and the United Kingdom.

removals of people from Western Native Township and Sophiatown to Soweto.

A LIFETIME OF LEARNING Prof Ndebele was born in Johannesburg in 1948, the third son of a nurse and teacher.

The family lived in the then Western Native Township before moving to Nigel on the East Rand shortly before the mass

In 1960, he went to boarding school in Eswatini. He was one of many South African boys to attend St Christopher’s Anglican High School, as their parents sought to remove them from Bantu Education. H continued his education at the University

28 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

of Botswana, Lesotho, and Swaziland in Lesotho (UBLS) in 1969, completing a degree in English and Philosophy in 1973. By the time he had graduated, he had already published poetry in some of the literary magazines of the day.

He went on to obtain an MA from Cambridge University and a PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Denver.

In his time in Lesotho, he became the Head of the Department of English, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, and Pro ViceChancellor at UBLS. Prof Ndabele returned to South Africa in 1990, the year of Nelson Mandela’s release, with his wife and three children.

“I was trained and experienced enough to participate at the highest levels in the recovery of South Africa by its oppressed black citizens,” said Prof Ndebele.

His leadership in South African higher education has seen him serve as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the Western Cape, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the North, ViceChancellor of the University of Cape Town, Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg, as well as chair of the South African Universities Vice-Chancellors Association; President of the Association of African Universities; and founding Chair of the Southern African Regional Universities Association.

Prof Ndebele’s political opinions were strongly shaped by the Black Consciousness Movement, and he became involved in it when he was president of the Students Representative Council at UBLS. He later joined the Executive Committee of

the Southern African Students Movement. These influences can be seen in much of his literary works, including his collection of short stories, “Fools’ and Other Stories” (1983). The collection won the Noma Award in 1984.

Foundation, nor its mandate, to bring all these materials into a single physical collection. The imperative is to document this vast resource, facilitate access to it, and promote its preservation and use.

CONTINUING MADIBA’S WORK Today, Prof Ndebele serves as chairman of both the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Mandela Rhodes Foundation.

“The Foundation also works to convene dialogue around critical social issues, including human rights and democracy, in order to contribute to a just society.

This work relies on mobilising the legacy of Nelson Mandela and providing public access to information on his life and times. The key objective is finding sustainable solutions to the problems confronting humanity.

In one of his many public speaking engagements, Prof Ndebele said: “Nelson Mandela is the compass that unwaveringly points in the direction of the freedom, prosperity, dignity, honour, integrity, and happiness that we desire.”

The Nelson Mandela Foundation, founded in 1999 by Nelson Mandela after he stepped down as president, is a non-profit organisation focused on memory, dialogue and legacy work.

Soon after the end of his term as president, Mr Mandela created the Foundation to allow him to continue his charitable work: from building schools to HIV/AIDS work, from research into education in rural areas to peace and reconciliation interventions.

Five years later, the Foundation began its transition into an organisation focused on memory, dialogue and legacy work, and the development of the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory. The Centre contains an archive of the life and times, works, and writings of Nelson Mandela - this helps to generate an integrated and dynamic information resource on his life and times.

“The Mandela Archive is infinite, fragmented and scattered, both geographically and institutionally.

It is neither the intention of the

“Drawing on the rich traditions of transformative dialogue, problem-solving and social renewal that made South Africa’s remarkable transition possible, the Foundation hopes the drive positive change and realise social justice by facilitating engagements about the problems people face.

‘Another arm of the Foundation’s work is Nelson Mandela International Day. This call to action relies on a simple message – that each individual has the ability and responsibility to make an impact through public service. The campaign looks to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better and, in doing so, to build a global movement for good. Ultimately, it seeks to empower communities everywhere” –Nelson Mandela Foundation Prof Ndabele has served on other organisations, including Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, MTN Foundation, Deloitte Africa, Cape Town Partnership, and the UBLS Association. n

Source: Njabulo Ndebele (personal website) / South African History Online / Nelson Mandela Foundation

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 29

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

BY KOKETSO MAMABOLO

Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo Championing Child Advocacy and Development

A

t he last sitting of South Africa’s first democratically elected parliament, former President Nelson Mandela spoke of a vision which encapsulates the idea of working together for the next generation. “I am the product of Africa,” declared the President in his address, “and her long-cherished dream of a rebirth that can now be realised, so that all of her children may play in the sun.”

This vision of freedom represents the selfless work done by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (NMCF). The Fund, started in 1995, has the central aim of improving the lives of children. It’s fitting that South Africa’s first democratically elected president, whose term in office saw the adoption of our well-renowned Constitution, led the focus on an area of human rights which is fundamental to a better society In a statement, announcing her appointment as CEO of the Fund, Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo said, “The Fund holds Madiba’s passion for children at its core and has a great history of changing the lives of vulnerable children across the country.“ A qualified chartered accountant, Dr Ncube-Nkomo brings vast experience from the private sector with nearly two decades of experience in executive and directorship roles. She is currently the Chairperson of the Board Source: NMCF | Love Life | CFO Club | Total Prestige Magazine

30 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

of Trustees for the Old Mutual Foundation.

Taking over the reins from interim CEO, Dr Stanley Maphosa, Dr Ncube-Nkomo brings a wealth of management experience which makes her perfect for continuing the honourable work the Fund does. Dr Ncube-Nkomo obtained a doctoral degree in Business Leadership from the Unisa School of Business Leadership.

Prior to her role at NMCF, Dr. Ncube-Nkomo served as the CEO of the New Love Life Trust for five years. Before that, she held the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the same organisation for two and a half years. Her experience spans across various sectors, including financial services and telecommunications, where she gained expertise in operational management and strategic development.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Ncube-Nkomo is known for her commitment to community development and philanthropy. She actively engages in initiatives that promote education, health, and social well-being.

Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo continues to build upon Nelson Mandela’s vision, carrying his light forward

and inspiring positive change for vulnerable children. Her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and commitment to making a difference position her as a significant force in the field of child advocacy and development.

With her at the helm of the NMCF, the organisation is poised to reach new heights in its pursuit of creating a brighter future for the next generation. Through her unwavering leadership and passion, Dr Ncube-Nkomo is making a lasting impact on the lives of countless children, ensuring that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and their dreams are within reach. n

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LIFESTYLE

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

Tourism in Cape Town and Western Cape

W

ill the 2023 number of tourists to Cape Town break all previous records?

The recent release of the 2023 Report on Tourism for the Western Cape & Cape Town by Wesgro sheds light on exciting trends in tourist numbers, raising the question of whether the 2023 figures will surpass all previous records.

KEY INSIGHTS AND FINDINGS The report reveals several encouraging trends that indicate promising growth in the number of tourists visiting the city and province. International

tourist numbers have seen a significant 90% year-to-date increase compared to 2022 figures. However, domestic tourist numbers have experienced a slight decline of 3% year-todate compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, international tourist numbers are on track to surpass pre-pandemic levels, while domestic tourist numbers are currently at 80% of the levels recorded in 2019.

APRIL TRENDS AND DATA Statistics for April 2023 showcase the overall tourism performance during that month. International two-way passengers through CTIA (Cape Town International

32 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

Airport) reached 218,325, representing a remarkable 39% year-on-year growth and a full recovery compared to April 2019.

Domestic two-way passengers passing through CTIA totaled 574,528, reflecting a 7% increase from April 2022 and an 80% recovery compared to April 2019.

During April 2023, Cape Town recorded a total of 67,747 tourist arrivals via air, with 87% originating from overseas markets and 13% from the African continent. The report highlights the UK as the leading source market to Cape Town, followed closely by Germany, the USA, the Netherlands, and France.

These European markets play a significant role in contributing to tourist arrivals in Cape Town, with seven out of the top ten source markets originating from the continent.

The report outlines the remarkable recovery of several markets, with the UK, Germany, USA, Netherlands, Canada, and Zimbabwe already achieving full recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels between January and April 2023. Belgium and Italy are also rapidly nearing full recovery. Additionally, 24 participating attractions across the Western Cape recorded a 50% growth in the number of visitors in April 2023 compared to the previous year, reaching 91% of the visitor volume observed in April 2019.

MOBILE LOCATION DATA INSIGHTS The Report on Tourism for the Western Cape & Cape Town

utilises mobile location data to gain deeper insights into visitor behaviour and movement throughout the Western Cape.

It emphasises that this data, collected from a sample of 57,045 domestic and 2,090 international tourists in April 2023, offers a more granular lens on visitor trends. However, it is important to note that the data is anonymized and does not include personally identifiable information.

Town, staying for approximately 2.8 days, while the Cape Karoo had the shortest average stay of 1.5 days.

MOBILE INSIGHTS: DOMESTIC VISITOR TRENDS The mobile insights reveal that the Winelands and Cape Town received the highest number of domestic tourists, with the Garden Route & Klein Karoo and Cape Town attracting the most overnight stays. Conversely, the Cape Karoo region saw the least volume of domestic tourists. On average, domestic tourists spent the longest time in the Garden Route & Klein Karoo and Cape

POINTS OF INTEREST (POIS) VISITED: DOMESTIC TOURISTS Shopping and markets emerged as the most popular type of attraction for local tourists who spent an average dwell time of 2.5 hours indulging in retail therapy.

MOBILE INSIGHTS: INTERNATIONAL VISITOR TRENDS Cape Town (48,5%) saw the most international repeat visitors in January 2023.Nearly 65% of the sampled international tourists visited Cape Town followed by 13% who visited the Winelands.

Natural attractions, including Table Mountain, Cape Point, and Knysna Waterfront, also garnered significant interest among domestic tourists. Of these,

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 33

LIFESTYLE

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

Cape Point and Knysna Waterfront recorded the longest average dwell time, with visitors spending approximately 2.9 hours at each location.

Bars and pubs ranked as the third most popular point of interest, with domestic tourists spending an average of 3.5 hours

enjoying these establishments.

Additionally, spending time in scenic areas such as Cederberg Wilderness, Stanford Valley, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, and Van Dyk’s Bay was highly favoured by domestic tourists, who spent an average of 3.3 hours exploring these regions.

34 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

POINTS OF INTEREST (POIS) VISITED: INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS For international tourists, shopping and markets emerged as the most popular type of attraction, with an average dwell time of 2.8 hours. Natural attractions such as Table Mountain, Cape Point, and Knysna Waterfront also ranked

CPT INTERNATIONAL SCHEDULE FOR MAY TO OCTOBER 2023: 19 AIRLINES AND 25 DESTINATIONS

highly among international tourists. Bars & Pubs were the third most popular point of interest, with an average dwell time of 3.0 hours.Additionally, international tourists spent the longest time at zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks, with an average of 4.1 hours spent at these attractions.

Among the wine farms on the route, Spier received the highest number of visits, followed by Skilpadvlei and Zevenwacht Wine Estates. Notably, Lovane Boutique Wine Estate stood out with the longest average dwell time of 4.1 hours in January 2023.

3RD QUARTER OUTLOOK On the back of solid growth during the first quarter and the 2nd Quarter entry month of 2023, the forecast remains favourable as the province enters its winter season.

Bookings recorded so far through major airlines for the months of May, June, July, August and September, the promise of tourists pouring into Cape Town and the Western Cape is looking extremely promising.

comprehensive understanding of visitor behaviour and trends can be achieved, facilitating effective tourism strategies and planning for Western Cape. n

CONCLUSION The 2023 Report on Tourism for the Western Cape & Cape Town paints an optimistic picture of the tourism industry in the region. With impressive growth in international tourist numbers and a steady recovery in domestic tourism, there are promising signs of surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The report highlights the significant contributions of overseas markets, particularly the UK, Germany, and the USA, and emphasises the importance of key attractions in driving visitor numbers. By leveraging mobile location data insights, a more

Source: Wesgro-IQ-Western-Cape-Tourism-Performance

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 35

IN OTHER NEWS – SA FIREFIGHTERS GO TO CANADA

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Fighting wildfires: SA offers expertise to Canada

M

ore than 400 firefighters have travelled from South Africa to Canada, to aid in extensive efforts to quell wildfires in Alberta, Canada.

The wildfires have raged since March and have affected 11 provinces. At least 30 000 people have been evacuated from their homes. Smoke from the wildfires

has caused air quality alerts and evacuations in the US and Europe.

that this year could be the most destructive wildfire season on record.

While the wildfire season is Canada runs from May to October, it does not usually bring such severe destruction so early in the season. This has prompted scientists to speculate

BATTLING CLIMATE CHANGE At the centre of the devastatio is extreme temperatures and drought, driven by climate change.

36 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2023

put in place following two earlier deployments to Canada to suppress wildfires in Alberta and Manitoba.

Scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2021 found that the conditions likely to encourage wildfires – dry, hot, windy conditions – are increasing in parts of the world and are likely to become more common.

long-term investments to ensure that we are prepared to mitigate and adapt to the effects of future wildfire seasons. Over the past eight years, the federal government has made wildfire management a top priority and will continue to do so.”

Canada in particular is warming twice as parts as the global average, according to studies by scientists employed by the Canadian government, and large fires have been increasing significantly.

Minister Wilkinson explained that Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy, released in November, for a final period of engagement, sets an overarching vision for climate resilience in Canada, including with respect to disaster resilience. The Government of Canada Adaptation Action Plan, released alongside the Strategy, announced new funding to reduce the risks of wildfire.

The country, and much of the continent, has experienced record levels of heat and drought. And due to warming temperatures, the fire season is now longer with Spring starting weeks earlier.

The Canadian Wildland Fire Information System has estimated that the destruction from this season’s fires has been 13 times worse than the 10-year average.

The area has also been experiencing a prolonged period of drought. The Canada Drought Monitor found that prairie provinces – such as Alberta – have been particularly hard hit by drought, with 10 provinces experiencing abnormal dryness, moderate or severe drought.

Canadian Minister of Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson said that updated modelling shows that the 2023 wildfire season will “once again be serious” in many areas of Canada.

“The federal government is working with provincial and territorial counterparts, as well as with Indigenous communities, to ensure continued support for those impacted by these fires. As we battle this year’s fire season, we are also making significant

A HELPING HAND Among the Canadian government’s plans to fight wildfires are partnerships with indigenous groups, local emergency services, and international firefighting agencies.

Alberta has already experienced more than 550 wildfires this season resulting in significant damage to property and infrastructure, and displacing thousands of people.

The 2023 Canadian deployment team comprises pump-trained firefighters, who have more than three years of actual firefighting experience. Twenty-five per cent of the selected firefighters are women. The crews are to be deployed in Canada for 35 days, with their return scheduled for between 10 and 21 July.

A number of the team members have previous international firefighting experience, which further enhances their expertise in tackling complex fire situations, said Minister Creecy.

“We are proud of the fact that South Africa is again able to assist Canadian firefighting teams in their battle to bring the wildfires under control. The extensive experience and training of these firefighters will significantly enhance efforts to effectively suppress and manage the wildfires in Alberta,” said Minister Creecy. n

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s Working on Fire programme is deployed two teams, each made up of more than 200 firefighters and management staff, to assist with firefighting and fire suppression efforts.

The deployment is the fifth time Working on Fire teams have travelled to Canada.

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy said the request for urgent assistance came from the Canadian Inter-agency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) in terms of the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Canada and South Africa.

The MOU, signed in 2019, provides for the exchange of wildland fire management resources between South Africa and Canada. It was

Source: BBC / Canada Drought Monitor / Canadian Government / Canadian Wildland Fire Information System / CBS / IOL

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 37

NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

The National Arts Festival 2023 Festival overcomes crippling challenges, shines brilliantly in upholding proud heritage The National Arts Festival (NAF) holds a prominent place in the cultural calendar of South Africa, serving as a rendezvous for artists and visitors to engage, celebrate, and appreciate a diverse range of artistic disciplines.

This festival actively promotes versatility, innovation, and artistic exploration.

By generously sponsoring the festival, Standard Bank continues to support the NAF in upholding the spirit of the National Arts Festival, enabling them to create extraordinary works that reflect the evolving artistic landscape in South Africa and worldwide THE HOME OF CELEBRATING ARTS Since 1974, Makhanda has been the cherished home of the National Arts Festival, offering unique experiences that go beyond entertainment. As the largest annual celebration of the arts in Africa, the festival connects artists and audiences, creating transformative cultural experiences. It holds deep historical significance, attracting diverse individuals who gather at the Monument

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to commemorate the arts.

Despite global challenges, including the pandemic, the Festival has adapted by embracing new technologies and transitioning to hybrid editions.

With 2023 came new challenges, but the festival dazzled in upholding its proud heritage.

With resolute commitment, it enthusiastically embraced the chance to exhibit unrivalled excellence across a diverse array of artistic disciplines. From captivating drama and enchanting dance to intellectually stimulating physical theatre, laughterinducing comedy, soul-stirring music, and mesmerising jazz, as well as immersive exhibitions and experiences, the festival persisted in generously sharing the limelight, captivating the global audience with its remarkable artistic prowess.

FRINGE The NAF Fringe provides an unfiltered platform for artists of all genres to showcase their work. It includes fresh and revised performances, collaborations, and

experiments. It also offers a debut space for schools and universities.

Fringe artists invest countless hours and funds to bring their shows to the NAF stage.

Winning a Standard Bank Ovation Award validates their dedication and often leads to further recognition and touring opportunities.

The Fringe, responsible for 59% of ticket sales, provides a solid foundation for artists and each year, these laureates are warmly welcomed back to promote new works alongside beloved classics.

YOUNG ARTIST AWARD WINNER The 2023 National Arts Festival (NAF) marked a moment of profound significance for the versatile artist, Asanda Lusaseni Mvana, widely known as Msaki.

vocals. It came as no surprise, therefore, that her contribution to the Festival encompassed not only her melodic talents but also her virtuosity in the realm of visual art.

Last year, she was bestowed with the prestigious Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Music, making this year’s Festival in Makhanda a fitting opportunity for her to unveil a new masterpiece.

Entitled “Del’ukufa” (Dare to Die), Msaki’s exhibition delves into profound themes of violence, healing, and identity. With her thought-provoking display, she seeks to ignite conversations and evoke contemplation around the intricate interconnections inherent within these narratives.

Having earned her fine arts degree from Rhodes University, Msaki’s musical prowess was already renowned, but her virtuosity extended beyond

THE NAF AND STANDARD BANK JOINTLY PROCLAIMED THE RECIPIENTS OF THE ESTEEMED STANDARD BANK OVATION GOLD, SILVER, AND BRONZE ACCOLADES.

2023 WINNER AWARDS

GOLD Namaste Bae: Blessings and Kombucha by Rob van Vuuren Namaste Bae is the creation of the incredibly talented South African comedian and actor Rob van Vuuren. This comedic masterpiece has garnered worldwide acclaim, enchanting audiences with its healing humour and uplifting experience.

The experience is one filled with laughter that uplifts the spirit and brings joy to the soul.

The King of Broken Things by Theatresmiths A triumphant winner of 3 International Awards at the esteemed Golden Dolphin International Puppet Festival and the recipient of the 2020 Gold

Ovation Award at the Virtual National Arts Festival, The King of Broken Things invites you on an enchanting journey into the realm of mending broken and discarded objects, even including hearts. This extraordinary show unveils a bittersweet tale, narrated through the unfiltered perspective of a remarkably wise child.

Delving into ancient Japanese traditions, mythology, and dreams, rekindling our awareness of the ubiquitous magic we often overlook, It serves as a timely reminder to contemplate the world and the profound impact of our actions, thoughts, and words.

As mere mortals, we would be

wise to cherish the enchanting words of imagination, dreams, and belief.

Regardless of age, this narrative has the power to mend every heart.

Critics have hailed the production as “sheer theatrical magic” (Barry Meehan, ArtSmart), praising the ending as “a surprise that is pure genius, pure magic” (Billy Suter).

Described as “profound and poignant” by the Natal Witness.

It profoundly touched the heart of Faeron Wheeler from Broadway World, who said, “Have you ever seen a piece of theatre that crawls into your heart and you’re happy for it to just stay there?

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 39

NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

SILVER Red Balloon - National Children’s Theatre In a captivating blend of playfulness, mime, and clowning, Red Balloon takes the stage as a dialogue-free, heartwarming journey of a grumpy old man and a vibrant red balloon as they discover the power of companionship. With imagination and acceptance, they uncover friendship’s presence in every corner of life.

Ripe ‘n Ready - Pichi Keane Pichi Keane, an internationally acclaimed singing sensation made her impressive Fringe debut. Bursting onto the scene

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from Hong Kong, Pichi is a queen with a voice as big as her heart determined to spread infectious laughter and delight. Ripe and Ready is a fresh, funny, and flirtatious, solo drag-cabaretburlesque extravaganza that offers mischievous and playful fun.

The Great Big Enormous Turnip Theatresmiths Based on an ancient Russian folk tale, The Great Big Enormous Turnip introduces a cantankerous old man and an irritable old woman who can’t stand each other. This captivating performance is an enchanting

journey through the depths of the dark woods. Blending the artistry of mime, mask work, Commedia dell’Arte, and a touch of twisted imagination, this enthralling experience transports you into a world of mystery and wonder.

With the accompaniment of talented performers, including Cara Roberts, Bryan Hiles, and even unsuspecting members of the audience, this exhilarating 40-minute escapade is a whirlwind adventure through the mesmerising forest and the inquisitive depths of the human mind.

BRONZE Bronze Ovation Awards were given to notable productions from educational institutions, including Stirling High School’s “Missing,” Rhodes University Drama Department’s “Pen(t)s Down HaHa!,” and Sonwa Sakuba Institute for the Performing Arts’ “Dear Tata: What Makes Man.”

EVERLASTING IMPACT The pioneering Jazzart Dance Theatre, the oldest company in the Cape, celebrated its legacy with “50 Years of Jazzart.” Through a triple bill of new works exploring reflection, release, and rebirth, they showcased their enduring influence. Established in 1973, Jazzart revolutionised South African contemporary dance, integrating African rhythms and movements while breaking free from Western influences. Amidst apartheid, they defied racial segregation and fostered artistic brilliance, becoming a prominent force in the dance world.

Next year, the National Arts Festival turns 50.

Established in 1974, the festival assumed a vital position in championing and commemorating South African ingenuity. Over the course of nearly five decades, it has served

MacBob Productions from Durban achieved multiple Ovations, with Bronze awards for “A Vegan Killed My Marriage” and Baked Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” Productions like “Ashes to Ashes,” “The Stories We See,” and “Wilderness” captivated

as a platform for showcasing artistic creativity, inspiring artists to delve into pressing societal matters and engage with the nation’s abundant cultural heritage.

It has united artists from various fields, nurturing conversations, partnerships, and artistic development. Simultaneously, it has served as an international marketplace for producers seeking to discover artistic creations for export.

VICTORIOUS AGAINST ALL ODDS The festival marked a triumphant return for countless art enthusiasts and artists, as it became their first post-Covid experience of the National Arts Festival in three years.

Set amidst the backdrop of a drought crisis in Grahamstown, the festival faced the additional

audiences and earned Bronze recognition.

Kwantu, a local choir from Makhanda, received another Bronze Ovation Award, and Land of Nonesi was acknowledged with Bronze for their unique Eastern Cape contribution

hurdle of enticing visitors during a time when exorbitant flight prices and limited accommodation options posed a threat to its viability. Even the once-affordable accommodation at Rhodes University now matched the rates of an average guest house.

To compound matters, the festival had to navigate through the challenges of load-shedding, further complicating its efforts.

Yet, amidst this formidable list of obstacles, the festival embraced the task of rekindling the audiences’ interest in live theatre in the post-Covid era.

Against all odds, this year’s festival emerged victorious; it was a delightful revelation, with theatres brimming with noticeably younger audiences compared to previous years. n

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 41

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

BY RAINE ST.CLAIRE

Collaborative initiative to enhance education systems across Africa

T

he digital divide remains a persistent concern in contemporary society, particularly in education and more so in rural communities where its impact is pronounced.

WHAT ARE THE BARRIERS TO EDUCATION IN SOUTH AFRICA? Around 90% of schools in the United States are equipped with a minimum of one computer for every five students, while an impressive 98% of classrooms across America currently have internet connectivity.

A renowned think-tank in the United States, Pew Research, has discovered that 92% of teachers believe that the internet has a significant impact on their teaching abilities, primarily due to enhanced access to content, resources, and materials.

In contrast, the situation in South Africa is quite different.

According to a report by NEIMS in April 2021, only 0.55% of public schools in the country have

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access to the internet, and 58% of public schools lack computers altogether.

It comes as no surprise that the key factors identified as obstacles to learner achievement in crucial subjects in South Africa include teachers’ lack of confidence, inadequate teaching skills, and limited access to highquality educational resources.

STEPPING UP The Nelson Mandela Foundation, in partnership with the Vodacom Group, Vodafone, and Safaricom, has recently released a research paper titled “Transforming Education in Sub-Saharan Africa through Digital Technologies.”

The main objective of this collaborative initiative is to improve educational systems throughout the African continent, unleash the latent potential of Africa’s youth, and establish fresh learning prospects, even in geographically isolated regions and rural communities, by fostering seamless connectivity between educators and students.

The parties engaged in this project also endeavour to illustrate how the harmonious amalgamation of digital technologies, connectivity, suitable regulatory frameworks, and backing from governments and industry participants can proficiently tackle the prevailing obstacles to education across the continent.

Professor Verne Harris, the Acting CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, emphasised the crucial role of quality education in breaking the cycles of intergenerational poverty and inequality. He highlighted Nelson Mandela’s unwavering conviction regarding the transformative potential of education in

Nonetheless, Jansen asserted that by implementing appropriate policies, establishing robust infrastructure, and making strategic investments, the digitisation process can generate fresh prospects for Africa’s young generation, empowering them to forge a fairer and more sustainable future.

promoting fairness, justice, and collective dignity within society.

Shameel Joosub, the Chief Executive Officer of Vodacom Group, underscored the major influence of granting entry to high-quality educational resources, facilitating remote learning, and enhancing the comprehensive educational journey for educators and students in marginalised African communities.

Joosub further stressed the necessity of collective efforts to equip youth with the essential tools to make meaningful contributions to their communities andactively participate in the digital economy.

OBSTACLES AND SUPPORT STRATEGIES Insufficient infra-structure, a lack of trained ICT personnel, prohibitive cost, and theft emerged as the key challenges hampering integration of ICT into rural schools in South Africa.

Professor Jonathan Jansen, Distinguished Professor of Education at the University of Stellenbosch, one of the coauthors of the research paper, acknowledged the enduring obstacles, encompassing unreliable power supply, limited technical assistance, language barriers, political instability, and restrictive societal norms.

Jansen underscored the importance of forging strategic partnerships, implementing targeted interventions, and creating supportive ecosystems to overcome these challenges.

Crucially, addressing these hurdles necessitates unwavering political commitment and government support to ensure that the implemented measures effectively address the specific needs of African students and educators.

NON-NEGOTIABLE The consequences of persistent limited opportunities and difficulties in obtaining educational resources are extensive and wide-ranging.

The time for debate and discussion is over. With each passing year without attaining e-readiness in our schools, our learners lag further behind.

Bridging the technology gap, particularly in remote areas, is critical. n

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 43

GOVERNMENT AND BUSINESS WORKING TOGETHER

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Partnering with business to build the economy 3 workstreams

T

he South African

government and local business leaders have committed to working together to remove obstacles to inclusive economic growth and job creation. To this end, three priority areas have been identified for urgent intervention: energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.

In an unprecedented move and under the umbrella of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), CEOs of South Africa’s largest companies from all sectors are coming together in a coordinated and committed way. Their commitment is to work together urgently to address key challenges and ensure the country achieves its potential of inclusive growth and job creation,

working with the Government-led National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC), and Joint Initiative to Fight Crime and Corruption (JICC).

Various government departments, relevant stateowned enterprises and other appropriate structures will collaborate on clearly defined initiatives with organised business, represented by the implementation platform for BUSA, Business for South Africa (B4SA), said President Cyril Ramaphosa.

President Ramaphosa said: “This initiative will make a real and marked difference in rebuilding our economy and setting it on a path of sustained, inclusive

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growth. It is driven by a shared determination to overcome the severe challenges we currently face and to mobilise the country’s substantial capabilities towards the achievement of that goal.

We welcome this commitment from business and undertake as government to work to ensure the success of this partnership.”

B4SA has made significant progress in establishing the three priority workstreams to work closely with government in implementing the urgent necessary actions, said Martin Kingston, chair of the B4SA steering committee.

Mr Kingston said: “B4SA’s three priority workstreams are fully mobilised and, through joint collaboration and strategic

partnerships with government, are focused on articulating and delivering a critical path to recovery, building societal and business confidence, as well as supporting the government to deliver on these interventions.

We are expecting to make considerable progress in the short term to realise collective benefits and set us on a sustainable path which capitalises on the country’s significant potential.”

THE FOLLOWING PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE ON THE THREE WORK STREAMS: • Energy: Collaboration, through NECOM, is underway to end load shedding and achieve energy security. Businesses will support a drive to close the current energy capacity gap and build confidence in restoring energy security.

The business sector has also agreed to further capacitate NECOM to develop a confidence-building national communication plan that is credible and transparent with visible and demonstrable actions.

•

•

Transport and Logistics: Efforts are underway to stabilise and improve operational performance on key trade corridors by mobilising private sector resources and accelerating the implementation of the National Rail Policy to close the capacity gap. Work is also being done to integrate the business sector’s efforts into government’s Freight Logistics Roadmap and enable the development of work plans, deliverables and timelines.

The private sector will also be integrated into the recently formed NLCC. Crime and Corruption: As fighting crime and corruption remain a government function, the government is leading this area by strengthening law enforcement agencies, such as the Investigating Directorate (ID) in the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

The government is also implementing intelligence, policing and other reforms.

The business sector will provide support to these

efforts by assisting with expert resources and the establishment of the JICC. The workstream priorities will be continuously reassessed and reprioritised and, in the future, additional focus areas, such as water and infrastructure, may be brought into scope, explained Mr Kingston.

Mr Kingston said: “Government and businesses have successfully demonstrated the benefits of partnership for the common good of South Africans through the Covid-19 pandemic, the vaccination programme, the recent formation of the Resource Mobilisation Fund, and many other examples. We have again agreed to work collaboratively, in this case with joint, fit-for-purpose teams through NECOM, NLCC, and JICC, to help drive the urgently needed economic recovery work programme. This will result in workable solutions, and we will communicate publicly on a regular basis as to the objectives and timelines to achieve meaningful progress”. n

UNITING BUSINESS LEADERS BUSA is the first representative and unified organisation for business in South Africa. Formed in October 2003, BUSA is the largest federation of business organisations in terms of GDP and employment contribution.

BUSA is the formally recognised representative of business at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC), where it interacts with various government departments, organised labour and the community constituency across a variety of structures. BUSA’s work is focused mainly on influencing policy and legislative development for an enabling environment for inclusive growth and employment.

Under the umbrella of BUSA, B4SA is an alliance of South African business leaders working with the South African government and other social partners to step up, lead and help create and deliver sustainable solutions for South Africa. B4SA’s objective is to mobilise business resources and capacity to work alongside and in support of government to address bottlenecks impacting economic growth and social development in South Africa.

Source: SA Government / B4SA / BUSA

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 45

PRESIDENTIAL BUDGET VOTE

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

South Africa exceeds goals for investment commitments

S

outh Africa set out on an investment drive five years ago to raise R1.2-trillion in new investment in the economy.

This goal was surpassed, with the country raising over R1.5- trillion in investment commitments, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in his recent presidential department budget vote speech “These commitments are steadily translating into investments in the productive economy, establishing new enterprises, expanding existing ones, providing opportunities to suppliers along the value chain and creating employment,” - H.E. Ramaphosa.

CREATING JOBS THROUGH INVESTMENT The investment is a “significant achievement” in the midst of economic challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and electricity crisis, the president said.

The investment has been accompanied by focused support on small businesses and cooperatives, and in the last financial year, nearly 75 000 SMMEs and cooperatives received financial support through the Small Enterprise Finance Agency. These funding interventions created over 32 000 new jobs and sustained over 70 000 existing jobs.

“The recovery of our economy relies on a massive increase in investment. As we have reported before, we have been working to improve the capacity of government departments, agencies, stateowned enterprises and partners to prepare and implement infrastructure projects,” said President Ramaphosa.

This work is starting to see results, with the Budget Facility for Infrastructure approving blended finance projects with a total project value of over R57-billion in the most recent round. These are mainly bulk water scheme projects, port development and housing projects.

On the basis of a financial commitment of R210-billion, the Infrastructure Fund will engage with financial markets to enable investment in these projects by private investors to ensure that these investments are realised.

This new investment comes on the back of R21-billion worth of projects completed last year, said President Ramaphosa, including upgrades to national roads and the development of small harbours.

There are currently more than R300-billion in projects under construction, including energy,

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water infrastructure and rural roads projects.

The energy sector remains a key area for investment, and the development of a pipeline of green hydrogen projects with a value of over R300-billion is underway.

President Ramaphosa said that his administration is focused on reducing the “impact of load shedding on households, businesses, hospitals, water provision, food production and all aspects of people’s lives”.

“Our overriding priority now is to end load shedding and achieve energy security. In July last year, I announced a detailed plan to address the energy crisis. I have since established the National Energy Crisis Committee to ensure that this plan is fully implemented and appointed a dedicated Minister in the Presidency to provide a single point of execution for the energy crisis response,” the president said.

IMPROVING ENERGY SECURITY The government has made progress in implementing the measures outlined in the Energy Action Plan, including allowing the private sector to invest in electricity generation projects of

any size. In addition, more than 100 projects are now at various stages of development, representing over 10 000 MW of new generation capacity and over R200-billion worth of investment.

have entered construction.

In addition, project agreements have been signed for 25 preferred bidders from Bid Window 5 and 6, amounting to approximately 2800 MW, of which 784 MW is already in construction.

“The exponential growth of private sector investment in electricity generation is proof that this reform is having a major impact. These investments will significantly close the shortfall in electricity supply,” said President Ramaphosa.

In the coming months, we will initiate the procurement of more than 10,000 MW of additional generation capacity from wind, solar, gas and battery storage, which will further contribute to closing the shortfall in energy supply.

“What has been pleasing in this regard is that this reform process has attracted a variety of investors in the form of womenled businesses, black investors, local traditional investors, as well as foreign investors from as far afield as China, the Middle East, United States, Canada, Turkey and Europe.”

“Finally, we are pursuing sweeping legislative reform to end the energy crisis once and for all, with the help of this house.

We have already introduced the Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill, which seeks to establish a competitive electricity market and support the unbundling of Eskom,” said President Ramphosa.

He added that the government had also accelerated the procurement of new generation capacity, and three projects from the risk mitigation programme

“This will fundamentally transform the electricity sector as we know it and will create a level playing field for multiple generators to

participate in producing the energy that we need.”

However, the work to end the energy crisis is not exclusive to the country’s commitment to a just energy transition, the president said.

“The work we are doing to urgently resolve the current electricity shortfall does not diminish our commitment to a just energy transition. We will stick to our commitment to reduce our carbon emissions by 2030 to within a target range which, at its upper level, is compatible with limiting global temperature increase to 1.5ºC,” he said.

“Where it may be necessary to delay the decommissioning coalfired power stations temporarily to address our electricity supply shortfall, any decision will be informed by a detailed technical assessment of the feasibility of continuing to operate older plants and the cost of doing so relative to alternative energy sources.” n

Source: SA Government

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 47

REGIONAL FOCUS: FREE STATE

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Free State looks towards greener future

T

he Free State has been experiencing increased temperatures in parts, according to Economic Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC Thabo Meeko – making the province’s focus on green energy essential.

To mitigate these impacts, the Department of Economic Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) working on plans to encourage investment into green projects, such as renewable energy and waste management.

FIGHTING CLIMATE CHANGE Predictions estimate that the Free State will experience an annual average temperature increase of between 2.5% to 3% in most districts between 2021 and 2050

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“Although there is less clarity on the direction the rainfall pattern will take in our province, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) predicts that storm and flood events will increase four-fold up to 2050,” said MEC Meeko.

The impact of these on biodiversity, environment and socioeconomic levels will be unprecedented, he said.To mitigate climate change’s impact, the DESTEA is establishing a Climate Change forum, which will report to the provincial Working Group on Climate Change.

There are several other ways the DESTEA is working to reduce the impact of climate change, such as a drive to plant trees and setting up infrastructure to harvest water in drought prone areas. In addition,

DESTEA is looking to funnel investment in the province toward green projects, and a database of climate change is being compiled to aid in attracting external funding.

One of the ways the provincial government is tackling waste management, is through efforts to reduce waste directed to provincial landfills. To this end, DESTEA is providing environmental support and training in the energy and waste management sectors. An audit of 25 landfill sites has been carried out, to ensure compliance and issue waste license applications.

“Recent rapid urbanisation and economic growth have contributed to increased waste generation. A lack of appropriate

measures to manage various forms of waste, especially at local government level, presents a serious risk to the environment, exacerbated by the increased complexity of waste streams due to industrialisation, affecting the complexity of waste management,” MEC Meeko said.

“The department has finalised the development of the first generation of Integrated Waste Management Plan whose purpose will be to improve integrated waste management practices and sets out mechanisms to strengthen cooperative governance relating to waste matters in the province.

DESTEA is focusing on economic opportunities within the waste management ecosystem, and has allocated R4-million to support small and medium enterprises participating in the Waste Economy.

ENCOURAGING GREEN INVESTMENT MEC Meeko said that natural gas found around Virginia is “a game changer for the economy of the province”,

and his department will commission a feasibility study to look into the possibility of establishing a Special Economic Zone in the area in order to take advantage of the opportunities presented by this gas find.

Around R1-billion has already been invested in the Renergen Gas project in Virginia, and a further R20-bn will be invested, over three years, starting later this year.

“Being a new industry, much of the equipment is sourced overseas, but we anticipate that the local content sourcing should be in excess of R5-billion across various disciplines in the near future. We have further discussions with other potential investors who have shown interest in areas such as tourism, hydroponics, bio-gas, alternative building technologies, and agri -tech,” he said.

MEC Meeko added that the Free State Investment Conference is planned for later this year as part of the ongoing efforts to attract investments in sectors such as mining, renewable energy,

gas extraction, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

“More will be done to reduce the cost of doing business in the province in order to attract and retain private sector investment. DESTEA research shows that the cost of doing business is relatively higher in the Free State than in other provinces. We will engage local government to ensure that this province is attractive to investors by lowering cost of doing business,” said MEC Meeko.

MEC Meeko said some negotiations between provincial government and potential investors in renewable energy projects are at an advanced stage, with efforts being made to encourage them to partner with government to address electricity challenges.

“Our view is that these investments will go a long way in unlocking economic and business opportunities for the local SMMES. It will also create much-needed jobs, alleviate poverty, and address various social ills in Kopanong Local Municipality”. n

Source: SA Government

FREE STATE ECONOMY IN NUMBERS

0.46%

the average rate at which Free State’s economy grew between 2011 and 2021

4.9%

the Free State’s contribution to South Africa’s GDP

1.45%

the amount by which the province’s economy is expected to grow until 2026

34.6%

the Free State’s official unemployment rate

1.85 MILLION

the number of people living in poverty in the province in 2021.

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 51

LEGAL MATTERS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Creating a bullying-free workplace for all South Africans

A

n estimated 78% of South Africans say they have experienced some form of victimisation in the workplace.

But there is legislation to protect the workforce against workplace bullying and to compel employers to intervene to prevent bullying and harassment at work.

IN LINE WITH INTERNATIONAL BEST PRACTICE Bullying can cause physical and psychological health problems, including increased blood pressure, panic attacks, increased stress and anxiety. Not only does bullying affect the well-being and productivity of an employee, but it can also affect the performance of the wider team. It can take a number of forms, including belittling a colleague’s opinion, false accusations, taking credit for another’s work, overloading others with work as a form of punishment, intimidation, verbal abuse and sexual or racial harassment.

Sometimes bullying can be as subtle as giving someone the silent treatment or spreading gossip about a colleague. This behaviour can result in the lowering of the victim’s self-esteem or self-confidence.

The International Labour Organisation estimates that workplace bullying is better reported in developed economies, as there is greater awareness of the issue.

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For example, in the UK, an estimated 53% of workers say they have experienced a hostile work environment, and 78% have witnessed bullying in the workplace. In the USA, Workplace Bullying Institute (WBI) poll showed that 68% of executives considered “workplace bullying a serious problem”, and almost half of Americans are affected by workplace bullying.

Last year, the Code of Good Practice on the Prevention and

Elimination of Harassment in the Workplace came into effect and empowered victims to act against all manner of workplace abuses, including sarcasm, condescending language, and joking at someone else’s expense.

The code aims to remove any uncertainty about harassment in the workplace that may have existed before and clearly defines forms of physical, psychological, and sexual harassment to ensure workers are protected

opinion, culture, language, birth or on any other arbitrary ground.

In addition, the Act also provides that “harassment of an employee is a form of unfair discrimination and is prohibited”.

Employers who fail to take steps to eliminate bullying within a reasonable period of time after it has been brought to their attention are at risk of being found liable in terms of section 60 of the Act. In addition, according to the Act, employers are indirectly liable for the wrongful acts of their employees if these acts are committed in the scope of their employment. from their employers as well as other employees.

The code prohibits threats, shaming, hostile teasing, insults, constant negative judgment, and language that is racist, sexist, or LGBTQIA+ phobic. It also addresses cyberbullying.

The development of the code comes after South Africa became the 10th country in the world to ratify the International Labour Organisation’s Violence and Harassment Convention 190, and aims to implement global policies in line with international labour standards.

AN OBLIGATION ON EMPLOYERS The code describes harassment as “unwanted conduct which impairs dignity and which creates a hostile or intimidating work environment for one or more employees”.

It applies to all employers and trade unions in all sectors, including the informal sector, and applies to anyone who has dealings with an employer.

The code states that bullying involves the abuse of coercive power by an individual or group of individuals in the workplace and may involve aggressive behaviour in which someone repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. It places a duty on employers to do their bit in preventing bullying in the workplace. It also reinforces that employers are under an obligation to take proactive and remedial steps to prevent bullying and other forms of harassment in the workplace.

Because bullying is considered a form of harassment, employers are obligated to eliminate it from the workplace to comply with the Employment Equity Act. The Employment Equity Act prohibits unfair discrimination against an employee, in any employment policy or practice, on one or more grounds, including race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, family responsibility, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, HIV status, conscience, belief, political

In the event that an employer finds an employee guilty of harassment such as bullying, they may – depending on the severity of the conduct – dismiss the guilty employee.

The Act and code together obligate employers to maintain a bullying-free workplace. This includes taking a decisive, zero-tolerance stand against bullying and having policies and procedures in place to ensure employees respect one another in the workplace. They are also required to carry out a risk assessment of harassment to employees and educate employees on harassment.

Employers are also required ` to speedily and fairly ` address any allegations ` of bullying or harassment.

Employers should also assist employees who may be experiencing bullying to report such conduct and ensure that those who do report bullying are not further victimised or subjected to any reprisals. n

Source: Business Tech / Employee Assistance Professionals Association of South Africa / EWN / Labour Guide / Workplace Trauma

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 53

FINANCIAL FITNESS – SARS AND TAX BREAKS

BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Incentivising renewable energy through tax breaks

A

s the South African government tackles the energy crisis, National Treasury has announced two key tax incentives to encourage individuals and businesses to assist with energy generation.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana recently announced tax incentives for individuals who install solar rooftop panels at their homes, as well as a tax break for businesses that invest in renewable energy.

Through these two incentives, the Treasury said it would be offering R4 billion in relief provided for individuals that install solar panels and R5 billion to companies through an expansion of the renewable energy tax incentive.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in his recent State of the Nation Address that incentives to encourage individuals and businesses to invest in solar energy generation have become a priority, as they offer one means of reducing the impact of load shedding on households and the economy.

Tax relief for individuals Individuals who install rooftop solar panels during this tax year will be able to claim a rebate of 25% of the cost of the panels, up to a maximum of R15 000 per person. This can be used to

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reduce their tax liability in the 2023/24 tax year. This incentive aims to encourage homeowners to contribute to electricity generation by allowing them to claim the rebate against their personal income tax liability.

THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS APPLY: • The rebate applies only to new and unused solar PV panels with a minimum capacity of 275W per panel (design output), installed as part of a new system or as an extension of an existing system.

• The solar panels must be installed at a private residence and have a certificate of electrical compliance issued.

• The rebate only applies to solar PV panels, not other forms of power generation like inverters or generators.

• To claim the incentive, individuals must present a VAT invoice and proof of payment to SARS, as well as the Certificate of Compliance.

• The rebate will only be claimable on submission of the ITR12 annual returns for individuals.

• The rebate is available to the person who pays for the system, so it is not confined to property owners.

However, body corporates do not qualify.

EXPANDED TAX INCENTIVES FOR BUSINESSES Minister Gondwana has temporarily expanded the existing tax incentive Section 12B of the Income Tax Act, which provides for capital expenditure deductions for assets used in producing renewable energy.

This section originally allowed businesses to deduct 50% of the costs in the first year, 30% in the second and 20% in the third for qualifying investments in wind, concentrated solar, hydropower below 30 megawatts (MW), biomass and photovoltaic (PV) projects above 1 MW, and provided an accelerated capital allowance of 100% in the first year for solar PV energy projects of less than 1MW.

project, with no cap on the generation capacity.

According to the minister, from 1 March 2023, businesses will be able to reduce their taxable income by 125% of the cost of an investment in renewables.

“There will be no thresholds on the size of the projects that qualify, and the incentive will be available for two years to stimulate investment in the short term,” he said.

The current incentive allows businesses to deduct the costs of qualifying investments over a one- or three-year period, which creates a cash flow benefit in the early years of a project.

This incentive has now been temporarily expanded to allow businesses to claim a 125% deduction, which can all be claimed in the first year. The adjusted incentive will only be available for investments brought into use for the first time between 1 March 2023 and 28 February 2025.

LOAN GUARANTEE SCHEME In addition, Finance Godongwana announced that the existing loan guarantee scheme - that was initially designed to help businesses recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic – would be used to incentivise renewable energy and rooftop solar.

The rebate is available for any renewable energy

This programme, known as the Energy Bounce Back Scheme,

was launched in April, with the aim of incentivising renewable energy and rooftop solar.

The scheme will also address energy-related constraints experienced by small and medium enterprises.

Minister Godongwana has also announced that, under the scheme, the government would guarantee solar-related loans for small and medium enterprises on a 20% first-loss basis.

This means that government will carry 20% of the loss on defaulted loans, so banks don’t have to take the whole loss.

It is hoped that this will encourage banks to issue more loans for renewable energy projects.

The amendments to the scheme also allow banks to borrow directly from the scheme to facilitate the leasing of solar energy equipment to small businesses. Small businesses installing solar will also be able to borrow finance for working capital. n

Source: TGS / Business Tech / Africa News / Bloomberg / Pretoria News / Webber Wentzel / Fin24

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 55

RICHEST WOMEN IN AFRICA

BY FIONA WAKELIN

AND WHO HAS TUMBLED FROM THE TOP?

Top to bottom: Folorunsho Alakija; Ngina Kenyatta; Hajia Bola Shagaya; Wendy Ackerman; Wendy Appelbaum

Looking at the list of the richest women in Africa, what is striking is that acquiring billionaire status does not happen overnight. Everyone featured here has spent a lifetime investing in, and growing, their entrepreneurial empires. Silver hair and gold in the bank!

TOPPING THE LIST OF WEALTHY POWERHOUSES IN AFRICA IS: Folorunsho Alakija - a Nigerian billionaire Fifty years ago Folorunsho started out in the fashion industry and today her business interests include real estate, oil and gas and printing.

She is the owner of several groups of companies including Dayspring Property Development Company Limited, a real estate company which owns properties around the globe, as well as Rose of Sharon Prints and Promotions.

Folorunsho is also Executive Director of FAMFA Oil, her familyowned oil production company.

NEXT IS: Ngina Kenyatta - the mother of current Kenyan president, Uhuru Kenyatta Nearing her ninth decade Ngina Kenyatta is a billionaire with a portfolio which includes investments, banking, media and the dairy industry. “Mama Kenyatta” has a 24.91% share in the Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA) – she also owns shares in Media Max, a media company that owns K24 TV, Kameme Radio, and The People newspaper.

THIRD PLACE GOES TO: Hajia Bola Shagaya who also hails from Nigeria With a current net worth of almost a billion US, Hajia Bola started out as an auditor for the Central Bank of Nigeria and then her entrepreneurial verve kicked in! She started an empire by importing Konica photographic equipment for resale. Nearly 40 years later she is CEO of Bolmus Group International with interests in oil, real estate, banking, and photography. Hajia founded Practoil Limited, and in 2005 became its managing director.

Today Practoil is one of the largest importer and distributors of base oil in Nigeria today.

4TH AND 5TH PLACES ARE HELD BY SOUTH AFRICAN POWERHOUSES: Wendy Appelbaum is the richest woman in South Africa and the 4th wealthiest on the continent Wendy Appelbaum is the daughter of Liberty Group founder Donald Gordon and the owner and Chair of De Morgenzon Wine Estate.

Previously, Wendy also served as the Deputy-Chairman of the Women’s Investment Portfolio Limited (Wiphold Limited), which is a renowned women’s investment holding company that is listed on JSE. Overall, Wendy is also a director of Sphere Holdings (Pty) Ltd, which is a black empowerment company

addressing financial services in mining sectors. In 2015, she was awarded both the Forbes Woman Businesswoman of the Year, and the Forbes Africa Woman of the Year.

Wendy Ackerman – FMCG powerhouse Wendy Ackerman is one of the founders and an Executive Director of Pick ‘n Pay Stores.

Along with her husband Raymond Ackerman, Wendy has been a tremendous force in building up one of South Africa’s leading FMCG retailers, which, to date, consists of over 450 stores, with the inclusion of 121 supermarkets and 14 hypermarkets.

The company extends its food and retail services across South Africa, southern Africa and even Australia, and has employed an estimated 49,000 people over the years. Wendy received an Inyathelo Award for her family’s philanthropic efforts in 2007.

A CAUTIONARY TALE For many years Isabel Dos Santos, daughter of Angolan President, José Eduardo dos Santos, topped the list as the richest woman in Africa.

Currently in self-imposed exile in Dubai she is embroiled in legal battles while watching her empire implode.

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 57

IN OTHER NEWS

BY SINAZO MKOKO

Innovation on the continent Fintechs are dominating the tech sector

S

outh Africa, Kenya, Egypt and Nigeria are the premier tech investment destinations on the African continent, according to the latest report released by Disrupt Africa.

The African Tech Startups Funding Report 2022 showed that the number of startups which have secured funding has increased each year since

Disrupt Africa began publishing its annual report. The number of African startups who have secured investment each year has increased by 406 percent since 2015.

The report says: “2021 was a landmark year for the African tech space, with unprecedented growth seeing the sector pass

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both the US$1 billion and US$2 billion marks for the first time.

However, amidst a global downturn in investments, especially in riskier asset classes such as venture capital, one would have been forgiven for expecting some levels of stagnation in 2022. Far from it.”

The report also shows that the amount of total funding

The fintech sector continues to power Africa’s startup funding revolution, posting another record-breaking year

share of total funding declined as other spaces saw serious advancements.

“In all, 205 fintech startups (32.4 percent of the total, representing an increase of 11.4 percent on 2021 figures), raised an extraordinary US$1,446,794,000 - 43.4 percent of the continental total. This latter figure was up 39.3 percent on US$1,038,456,500, which made up 48.3 percent of the 2021 total,” the report said.

However, the report noted the relentless growth of Africa’s fintech space should not, however, detract from positive developments elsewhere.

“Indeed, even though total fintech funding increased, its overall share of investment fell.

Non-fintech startups still raised the majority of the capital, with many sectors enjoying bumper years,” it said.

going to African tech startups also continues to increase, though the rate at which it is growing has decreased quite dramatically in 2022.

It showed that the fintech sector continues to power Africa’s startup funding revolution, posting another record-breaking year, yet its

When it comes to gender parity in this sector, more needs to be done. “Only 128 (20.2%) of the 633 funded African tech startups have at least one woman on their founding team, which is up from 121 in 2021 but still represents a percentage decline from 21.5 percent,” the report said.

Other than in fintech, South Africa, particularly, has seen the funding spreading across a range of sectors.

This year the e-health sector and the AI sector stood out in terms

of the number of startups that have been backed, with fourteen (15.7%) in the former and eight (9%) in the latter. In terms of total funds, e-commerce and retail-tech were the only other noteworthy sectors, collecting US$97 750 000 (29.6%), while other investments were spread around sectors.

AFRICA TECH WEEK: Topco Media, in partnership with Sentech, provides a unique and diverse conference experience at Africa Tech Week. The conference offers attendees the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and innovations in the African tech industry while connecting with key players and exploring new business opportunities.

Participants get to learn how tech is disrupting various industries in Africa including, among others, education telecommunications, infrastructure and financial services and banking.

Weighing in on the conference, Pamela Mkhize, Head of Africa Digital Solutions at Enel Group Power said, “Africa Tech Week in itself is a platform that seeks to recognise businesses that are providing Tech solutions in the continent. Businesses, by virtue of being part of the Africa Tech Week give themselves an opportunity to learn from their counterparts.”

Public Sector Leaders | July 2023 | 59

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