Witten by Albert Pule

For over 40 years Bonelwa Mbambatho has lived in Radway Green Farm outside of Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape.

The 45-year-old has never owned a house before and has been living on the farm since she was born. For a long time she and other farm dwellers endured freezing temperatures, floods and unfriendly weather conditions. Theirs was a struggle for a place they could call home.

Mbambatho’s dream of owning a house finally became a reality when she and her fellow farm dwellers were handed the keys to their new houses by the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform Gugile Nkwinti recently.

The houses were built in line with the department’s Comprehensive Rural Development Programme, which aims to build social cohesion in rural areas and facilitate development, especially in farming communities.

The department bought a 53 hectare piece of land from the owners of the farm, following a conflict between the farm dwellers and the new owner.

The department stepped in, bought the farm and built houses for the farm dwellers.

One of the farm dwellers is Mbambatho who is now a proud owner of a four-roomed home.

Initially, the government was to build 18 houses on the land, but decided to build extra houses for bigger families, including adults who were living with their parents. This brought the total number to 27.

All houses are eco-friendly and come with solar geysers, solar power units, sanitation systems and rain harvest drums. There is also a borehole on the land for the residents to get water.

Each house has two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and bathroom. Mbambatho currently lives with her three children.

She said her life has improved since she moved from the goods container that she used as shelter for over four years.

“I can now have visitors to my house, unlike when I was still staying in the container. We could not do anything because everyone was cramped in a small space in the container.”

She said it was difficult during rainy days as water would get into the container and it was very hot during summer.

“I don’t know how I can thank government because it has always been my dream to own a house. I am grateful for what the department has done for us,” she said with a smile.

A few metres away from Mbambatho’s house is the brand new house of 58-year-old Zilindile Onceya. He will share his two-bedroom house with his wife and six grandchildren.

"In the beginning, it was really bad," said Onceya, who has lived on the farm since childhood.

"What makes me very happy is that I know I will die in this house and my children will have a place to call home even when I’m gone," he said.

He added that his grandchildren are enjoying the new house, especially having an inside bathroom.

“They like bathing in a bath. I think they enjoy the sound of water coming out of the tap.”

Written by Albert Pule

The Blitzbokke will fight hard at the United States leg of the HSBC World Sevens Rugby Tournament to regain the top spot.

Currently, they are joint leaders with Fiji and New Zealand after four rounds. The second placed team is Australia, which is sitting on 54 points after four rounds.

The Las Vegas leg is scheduled for the 4 to 6 March 2016. The South African team is in Pool D and will battle it out with hosts United States, Wales and Canada.

South Africa’s rivals, Fiji and New Zealand will face off with their opponents in Pool A and Pool C respectively.

Fiji will play the only team from South America (Argentina) and will also play Samoa and France while New Zealand will play Kenya, Russia and Portugal.

The other pool will be made up of Australia, England, Japan and Scotland.

The Blitzbokke would likely use the current seven series as preparations for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil later this year. The sport is scheduled to make a debut at the 2016 games.

Written by Estelle Coetzee and Edwin Tshivhidzo

Efforts to prevent crime in Patensie, Eastern Cape, have been given a boost. Deputy Minister of Correctional Services Thabang Makwetla recently launched South Africa’s first Ex-Offenders’ Desk in the area.

The Ex-Offenders’ Desk will create, manage and monitor programmes that will help communities prevent crime. The village is renowned for its quality oranges and potatoes. Almost all of the town’s 5 700 inhabitants make a living by doing seasonal work on the commercial farms in the surrounding area.

Deputy Minister Makwetla urged residents to support offenders during the process of being reintegrated into their communities. “It takes a village to raise a child. It equally takes a community to offer a second chance to an offender through contributing towards their successful reintegration into society,” he said.

Addressing an audience of over 150 community members, parolees, probationers and officials from different government departments, Deputy Minister Makwetla challenged parolees and probationers to avoid reoffending because by so doing, they were undermining the trust that communities have in the South African penal system.

The Ex-Offender Desk is located in a lighthouse, which was previously used as a tavern. However, the property owner had a change of heart and wanted to do something positive for her community.

Together with Derick Kapp, Head of Community Corrections at Humansdorp, they were able to bring the right people together for partnerships. The Ex-Offender Desk aims to answer the needs raised at the National Ex-Offender’s Conference held in July 2015 for community structures to help ex-offenders find their feet and plough back into the community.

The concept of the ex-offender desks is based on the premise that rehabilitated ex-offenders have a lot to offer communities, such as leading crime prevention and anti-substance abuse campaigns, and imparting skills they have obtained while incarcerated to unemployed youth. Parolees, under the auspices of Humansdorp Community Corrections, remodelled the old tavern into an enabling space where human development can thrive. They extended it with two more rooms. Other partners donated carpets and books.

The following services will be provided at the Ex-Offenders Desk:

•     Food kitchen for the destitute.

•     Clothes donations.

•     Hosting wedding ceremonies.

•     Personal and marriage counselling.

•     Substance abuse programmes.

•     Bible studies.

•     Adult education and training classes.

The project is home-grown and gives communities a sense of ownership as church and school leaders, as well as the mayor’s office, have been on board since the start.

Patensie falls under the Kouga Municipality, an area where substance abuse is a major threat, thus necessitating anti-substance abuse programmes.

The Ex-Offenders’ Desk will help to facilitate these programmes, while offering other services, such as educational programmes, life skills as well as services provided by the Department of Social Development, South African Social Security Agency, Home Affairs, Department of Health and various NGOs.

Deputy Minister Makwetla also thanked Mrs Moss for closing the doors of her tavern and donating the premises to the community of Patensie and the Department of Correctional Services, to house the Offenders’ Desk.

The newly-renovated building was transformed by a group of parolees and probationers under the supervision of the Humansdorp Community Corrections office.

 

*Estelle Coetzee works for the Department of Correctional Services.

Written by Tumelo Taunyane

The Benoni Sailing Club was abuzz with excitement recently when the 3rd annual Gauteng Open Water Championship took place.

Swimmers took to the pristine waters of Homestead Dam in a showcase of skill and endurance.

The first leg saw athletes competing in 10, 7.5 and 5km swims, to qualify for the National Open Water championships taking place in Cape Town this month.

Among the participants were Italian and Brazilian swimming clubs with the Italians dominating in the long distance. Aurora Ponsele (23) won gold in the 10km women -16 and over age category in a time of 2:00:15, while Simone Ruffini (26) took first place in the 10km men 16 and over age category in a time of 1:56:45.

“This has been a showcase of tremendous talent and endurance with athletes spending hours in the water to get a chance to compete with the best throughout the country. It is exciting to see the growth of swimming in the province with athletes from various communities and across different age groups. It is good for social cohesion.

“We might not have the sea but we have the talent to exploit the water and we hope more and more talent will be unearthed through activities like this and further lift the sport to new heights,” said MEC for the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Faith Mazibuko.

The Open Water Swimming Championships were hosted in a partnership between the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation and three aquatic affiliates of the province including Gauteng Central Gauteng Aquatics and Eastern Gauteng Aquatics and Northern Tigers Aquatics.

*Tumelo Taunyane works for the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.

Written by Janine Arcangeli

President Jacob Zuma said R7 billion has been committed to new port facilities. This follows the adoption of a public-private partnership model for port infrastructure development by Transnet National Ports Authority.

Delivering his State of the Nation Address in Parliament last month, President Zuma said government was concerned that South Africa did not own vessels but the country is surrounded by about 3 000 kilometres of coastline.

“Through the oceans economy segment of Operation Phakisa, we are trying to solve this challenge. I am pleased that two bulk carrier vessels have been registered in Port Elizabeth and a third tanker in Cape Town, under the South African flag,” he said.

The Operation Phakisa Big Fast results methodology was launched in 2014 and implemented in the ocean economy, health, education and mining sectors. Through Operation Phakisa, government aims to implement its policies and programmes better, faster and more effectively. Another positive Operation Phakisa development was the launch of a fuel storage facility in Cape Town, bringing an investment of R660 million.

“Aquaculture appears to be an important growth area within the oceans economy segment of Operation Phakisa. Close to R350 000 private sector investment has thus far been committed in the aquaculture sector. Nine aquaculture farms are already in production. These farms are located within the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape and Northern Cape,” said the President. Operation Phakisa is an adaptation of the Big Fast Results methodology that was first applied by the Malaysian Government, successfully, in the delivery of its economic transformation programme.

The operation addressed its national key priority areas such as poverty, crime and unemployment. It involves setting up clear targets and follows up with ongoing monitoring processes which makes the results public. Through this initiative the Malaysian government was able to register impressive results within a short period.

The Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries

DRAFT AQUACULTURE BILL: PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS

The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) hereby invite interested and affected stakeholders to participate in the public consultations on the Draft Aquaculture Bill. The Draft Aquaculture Bill seeks to create an efficient regulatory regime for the aquaculture sector in order to create an enabling environment to promote aquaculture sector growth.

The objectives of the Aquaculture Bill are to promote responsible aquaculture development; promote the development and management of the South African aquaculture sector; promote coordination of aquaculture research and development activities; enable the aquaculture sector to be regulated more effectively, and to promote transformation of the sector.

For more information on the venues for each province, interested parties can refer to the DAFF website: www.daff.gov.za or alternately, contact Ms Gwen Bokwe at (021) 402 3346;
email: GwenB@daff.gov.za.

The draft Aquaculture Bill can be reviewed and accessed at the following link: www.daff.gov.za

Written comments on the Bill can be sent for the attention of Ms Gwen Bokwe and must reach the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries by 16:00, Thursday, 31 March 2016 using any of the following options:

The Department of Science and Technology

The mission of the Department of Science and Technology is to provide leadership, an enabling environment and resources for science, technology and innovation in support of South Africa's development. To assist us in achieving this, we wish to appoint dynamic individuals in the following positions

Post: Deputy Director: Intellectual Property Specialist
Centre: Pretoria
Salary: R569 538, 00 per annum (all-inclusive remuneration package)

Requirements: A national Diploma / Bachelor’s Degree (minimum NQF level 6) with a formal certification or qualification in Intellectual Property.  Three to five years' working experience in IP management.  In-depth knowledge and understanding of the Intellectual Property Rights from Publicly Financed Research and Development Act, 2008 (IPR Act), and other IP legislation. Sound knowledge and understanding of legislation impacting on technology transfer activities in South Africa.  Knowledge of various local and international structures and programmes relating to IP and technology transfer.  Analytical, project management and presentation skills.  Report writing and analysis proficiency.  Planning, organising and time management competence.
 

Duties: Develop guidelines, practice notes and/or interpretation notes as required by the IPR Act and as necessary for recipient compliance.  Review, approve and monitor the implementation of IP policies.  Attend to and oversee all substantive and administrative matters relating to IP1, IP7 and IP9 forms as prescribed in regulations under the IPR Act, including facilitating the reporting and capturing of all IP disclosed (IP7 forms), the review and approval of IP referrals (IP1 forms) received, and approving full cost matrices (IP9 forms) based on the recommendations of the full costing subcommittee of the Advisory Board.  Review of commercialised/non-commercialised IP submissions against the requirements of the IPR Act, regulations and guidelines/practice notes. Provide general legal advice to the National Intellectual Property Management Office and its stakeholders. Conduct IP awareness sessions.  Ref. No. DST21230
Enquiries: Ms Lerato Mokola at 012 843 6709

Post: Deputy Director: Multiwavelength Astronomy
Centre: Pretoria
Salary: R569 538,00 per annum (all-inclusive remuneration package)

Requirements: A National Diploma/Bachelors Degree (minimum NQF level 6) in natural or applied sciences. Three to five years' experience in a science research environment. Good knowledge of the South Africa's national system of innovation and astronomy landscape. Understanding of physics and astronomy concepts. Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act. Project management, negotiation, communication research, analytical, writing, organising, computer and interpersonal skills.  The incumbent must be energetic, creative and prepared to travel. Ability to take the initiative, to work independently and as part of a team, and to work under pressure.
 

Duties: Support the implementation and review of the Multiwavelength Astronomy Strategy and Policy. Develop and strengthen human capital development and astronomy programmes at historically disadvantaged institutions. Support the development of appropriate astronomy outreach and awareness programmes. Support strategic partnerships in conjunction with the Programme: International Cooperation and Resources. Ref. No. DST21204
Enquiries: Ms Dolly Masuku at 012 843 6692

Post: Deputy Director: Strategy and Planning
Centre: Pretoria
Salary: R569 538,00 (all-inclusive remuneration package)

Requirements: A National Diploma/Bachelors Degree (minimum NQF level 6) in strategic management or related field. Three to five years' experience in strategic management. An understanding of the South African national system of innovation, science and technology policies, and economic analysis. Knowledge and understanding of project and financial management.  Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act and relevant legislation and policies. Verbal and written communication, presentation, report writing, research and analytical skills. Ability to liaise with stakeholders and communicate at all levels. Be innovative and have good interpersonal skills.

Duties: Implement the departmental planning cycle framework. Preliminary and actual performance information auditing (Auditor-General audit). Provide mentorship to Strategy and Planning interns. Monitor budget and cash-flow expenditure with regard to projects. Ref. No. DST21222
Enquiries: Ms Nontobeko Nkosi at 012 843 6861
This is a re-advertisement. Candidates who previously applied for the Deputy Director: Strategy and Planning, need not re-apply.

Post: Assistant Director: Demand And Acquisition
Centre: Pretoria
Salary: R289 761 per annum

Requirements: A National Diploma/Bachelors Degree (minimum NQF level 6) in supply chain management, logistics, procurement and purchasing management. Two to three years' experience in a supply chain management environment. Knowledge of LOGIS and BAS. Knowledge of supply chain management processes and procedures, the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA), the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and related prescripts. Knowledge of transversal systems and the Public Service Regulations. Good verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy. Good interpersonal, analytical, project management, numeracy, negotiation and influencing skills.

Duties: The successful candidate will be responsible for acquisition demand management, procurement maintenance, bid administration, payments processing and human resource management. Ref. No. DST21231

Enquiries: Mr Chester Magardie at 012 843 6702
 

 

Johannesburg continues to lead the way as a pioneering city in South Africa. Although there are economic challenges, rising interest rates and rapid fluctuations of currencies, the City of Johannesburg stands out as an example of stability and prudent financial management.

Attracting Investment

The city’s reputation as an attractive destination for investment was strengthened by the recent decision of global agency, Fitch Ratings, to upgrade and affirm the city’s long-term ratings.

The agency lauded the city for its “robust budgetary performance” when measured against international standards. It highlighted the fact that Joburg is the largest and wealthiest city in the country as well as home to the major financial institutions and corporate headquarters. The report singles out the city’s capacity to collect revenue and offer ratepayers good value for the rates and taxes they contribute.

Fitch noted that, despite a slowdown in the national economy, the city’s R10 billion investment in infrastructure over a 10-year period would support the continuing good performance of its economy. This will lead to an average growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of two to three per cent over the medium-term resulting in an expanding tax base when coupled with a slightly rising population.

A GDP is the monetary value of all the finished goods and services produced within a country's borders within a specific time period. For global investors, it shows that the City of Johannesburg is a safe and potentially profitable investment destination. For local residents, ratepayers and the business sector, it sends positive messages that the policies implemented by the city are correct and that the leadership can be trusted to continue on its current path.

This should result in more investment, leading to economic growth, job creation and further opportunities to improve infrastructure and the quality of service delivery in the city. Recently, the city scooped the prestigious C40 Cities Award 2015 for its Green Bond initiative in Paris. The Green Bond, which was oversubscribed, has already raised R1.458 billion in the past financial year and this is being invested in numerous projects in the effort to green the city.

Infrastructure to Develop Corridors of Freedom

In 2012/13, Johannesburg Executive Mayor Parks Tau announced that the city would invest more than R100 billion over 10 years in major infrastructure projects mostly related to the Corridors of Freedom. The Corridors of Freedom are transport-orientated developments that will see Johannesburg transcend apartheid-era town planning by bringing schools, services, work opportunities and other benefits closer to people’s homes, especially of those who live on the outskirts of the city.

The main objective of the creation of the Corridors of Freedom is to undo apartheid’s spatial planning, create a unified city and improve communities’ access to economic and job opportunities.

Much has been done to develop the Rotunda Precinct in Turffontein, the Empire-Perth Corridor, the Louis Botha Avenue and the Soweto Corridor around Mooki Drive, including the upgrade of the Nancefield Station.

All these projects are designed to uplift communities, improve mobility and integrate communities. A critical part of the Corridors of Freedom has been the development of the Rea Vaya Rapid Bus system that has been lauded the world over.

 

Empowering the Youth

Johannesburg is also making strides in its efforts to bring youth into the mainstream of economic activities through creative programmes such as Jozi@Work and Vulindlel’ eJozi.

The city has implemented the R3 billion developmental programme, Jozi@Work, which is a co-production model designed for the municipality to partner with communities to boost the delivery of municipal services in communities.
This project was lauded in a recent international research report for its success in harnessing the power of youth to drive sustainable economic growth.

The findings are contained in a report titled “Accelerating Pathways: Youth Economic Strategy Index 2015”. The respected business publication: The Economist was commissioned by the Citi Foundation to conduct the research in 35 cities around the world including Sydney, London, Madrid, Moscow, Mexico City, Hong Kong and Miami.

Mayor Tau describes the recognition of the city as “a welcome development”.

“Johannesburg is well aware of the need for significant reforms in education, entrepreneurship, skills development and training to empower young people in the current economic climate,” he adds.

The report says “policy need not involve substantial costs.” It refers to Jozi@Work as “a highly innovative initiative” through which Johannesburg “tries to address several urban issues simultaneously”.

It also praises Johannesburg because it has made youth development one of its largest priorities because of the clear economic and societal need for progress, turning the so-called ‘ticking time-bomb generation’ into an opportunity for success.

Through Vulindlel’ eJozi the city has committed to create 200 000 new jobs for the youth and has partnered with the private sector to provide financial incentives for hiring youth.

Johannesburg has also established a network of ‘youth advisories’ at community level to reach out to young people, listen to their concerns and begin to address the needs in areas such as education, job training and employment.
Mayor Tau says Joburg is a city “where the young lead the call for transformation, demanding the opportunity to work, to improve their lives and become the best of what they wish to be”.

Source: City of Joburg

 

 

Written by Noluthando Mkhize

Leratong Hospital’s obstetrics and gynaecology department is a good example of what hard work and innovation can do for the health sector. The department took the first prize in the Department of Public Service and Administration’s 13th Annual Centre for Public Service Innovation Awards, winning the Innovative Service Delivery institutions category for its One-Stop Shop Project.

Leratong Hospital, situated in Krugersdorp, is the secondary or level two-hospital for the West Rand district, meaning that patients that need to be referred from local clinics are sent there. The hospital serves about 1.5 million people, has 855 beds and six intensive care beds.

Dr Francois Lubbe, the head of the department, said they decided to make changes to the clinic to improve services by reducing unnecessary waiting times for patients seen at the Gynaecology Outpatient Department (GOPD).
The long waiting times were caused by a lack of co-ordination when it came to arranging appointments for patients.

“The first patient that I wanted to schedule for a hysterectomy had to wait six months due to fully booked theatre lists,” said Dr Lubbe. A hysterectomy is a surgery to remove a woman’s uterus.

Turning the Tide in GOPD

Dr Lubbe said in 2013 when he joined the GOPD, patients were seen twice a week for all gynaecology-related problems. “This created chaos from a booking, staff and space point of view. Nothing is more frustrating and depressing for a specialist than entering the GOPD and finding 60 patients staring at you in anticipation.”

He adds that in order to improve the GOPD, it had to comply with One-Stop Shop rules. These rules included patients not being given another appointment other than an appointment for surgery or a re-sonar in six weeks. “Follow-up visits would only be for re-sonar of chronic disease monitoring or be done at primary health care level,” said Dr Lubbe.

He adds that another measure that was introduced was that all patients visiting the GOPD must be referred and consultations must be arranged on an appointment basis. This excludes emergencies. Dr Lubbe said to avoid wasting time, all referred patients visiting the GOPD must present their referral letter and a pap smear report no older than six months.

If a patient is HIV-positive, they also bring their latest CD4 count and their ARV medication. “These requirements need to be taken care of at the local clinic or primary hospital before visiting the GOPD, otherwise it results in another GOPD appointment which can mean another six weeks of waiting. This also means another taxi fare for patients, and patients waiting in another queue for a file.”

He said his department continues to communicate with local clinics and general practitioners to ensure that patients visiting the Leratong GOPD have the right paperwork. “The number of patients visiting the GOPD is currently restricted to 30 per day of the two days that the clinic is open in a week.”

He added that the GOPD’s medical staff team consists of a gynaecologist, two medical officers, an intern and one nursing staff member for each doctor. When patients go to the clinic, they are examined in private and if a patient needs to be booked for surgery, it is done on the spot. “Two years ago, the waiting period for surgery was six months plus. Currently, we are looking at a waiting period of two weeks for surgery.”

Working in a Well-Structured Environment

Dr Lubbe believes that working in a well-structured environment not only reduces stress levels and frustration for doctors and patients but also creates confidence. “It creates an atmosphere of competency and confidence which is noticed by patients. In turn, patients’ confidence in the hospital and its staff improves.”

He added that his One-Stop Shop is still a work in progress with its own hiccups. “We are still on a learning curve. The experience and results this far have been promising. There is an improvement in professional morale and job satisfaction as well as patient care.”

The self-proclaimed perfectionist adds that his golden rule is limiting procrastination. “It should be an honour for health professionals to serve their country’s public health system. When I was interviewed for the position of HOD in 2013, I said I would do my best to make Leratong Hospital’s Obstetrics & Gynaecology Department the best in Gauteng. I sincerely hope this award will serve as an incentive to achieve even higher levels in the future.”

Written by Chris Bathembu and Amukelani Chauke

President Jacob Zuma has moved to assure South Africans, uneasy about the current unfavourable economic conditions, that they should not be despondent, but rather the country should work together to turn the situation around.

In his State of the Nation Address last month, which was watched by millions of people, President Zuma highlighted that the tough global and domestic conditions should encourage “us to redouble our efforts, working together as all sectors”.
 
“We have had fruitful meetings with business, including the high level meeting with CEOs…we have heard the suggestions from the business community on how we can turn the situation around and put the economy back on a growth path,” said President Zuma.  

He announced that government was developing a ‘One Stop Shop/Invest SA’ initiative to signal that South Africa is truly open for business. Government would speed up the implementation of this service, in partnership with the private sector.

Global Economic Downturn

President Zuma reminded South Africans that the country, like many other developing economies, has been affected by the global economic downturn.

“Our reality right now is that global growth still remains muted. Financial markets have become volatile. Currencies of emerging markets have become weak and they fluctuate widely.

“Because our economy is relatively small and open, it is affected by all of these developments. Our economy is also affected by domestic factors such as electricity constraints and industrial relations, which are sometimes unstable,” he said.

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank predict that the South African economy will grow by less than one per cent this year. The lower economic growth outcomes and outlook suggest that revenue collection will be lower than previously expected.

The President also acknowledged that South Africa seems to be at risk of losing its investment grade status from ratings agencies.

“If this happens, it will become more expensive for us to borrow money from abroad to finance our programmes of building a better life for all, especially the poor.”

He urged South Africans to take advantage of the exchange rate as well as the recent changes of visa regulations, to boost inbound tourism. SA Tourism will invest R100 million a year to promote domestic tourism, encouraging South Africans to tour their country, he said.

Progress Is Being Made

Reflecting on the progress that has been made in the past few years, President Zuma mentioned that state-owned freight company Transnet has built rail infrastructure which has enabled the country’s mines to move massive bulk of commodities through the ports to markets around the globe.

The South African Road Agency Ltd (Sanral) has built some of the best roads in Gauteng and in many parts of the country.

The Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority has built dams of varied capacities, making it possible for South Africans to have access to safe drinking water.

“Eskom, in spite of the challenges, still manages to keep the economy going, against all odds. Our development finance institutions such as the Industrial Development Corporation, Development Bank of Southern Africa and others have provided finance for infrastructure, various industries and agricultural businesses without fail, even in the aftermath of the global financial crisis,” he noted.               

Nine-Point Plan

President Zuma also reflected on developments related to the Nine-Point Plan he announced last year saying, among others, that progress has been made to stabilise the electricity supply.

The plan aims to boost economic growth and create much-needed jobs. It consists of, among others, revitalisation of the agriculture and agro-processing value-chain, promoting beneficiation, unlocking the potential of small business and the energy challenge.

President Zuma said government has invested R83 billion in Eskom, which has enabled the utility to continue investing in Medupi and Kusile, while continuing with a diligent maintenance programme. Additional units from Ingula power station will be connected in 2017, even though some of them will begin synchronisation this year.

The multiple bid windows of the Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme have attracted an investment of R194 billion. “This initiative is a concrete example of how government can partner with the private sector to provide practical solutions to an immediate challenge that faces our country.” The President said this year government will select the preferred bidders for the coal independent power producer.

SA has made a lot of progress

Addressing The New Age business briefing, in Cape Town, a day after he delivered the State of the Nation Address, President Jacob Zuma said despite being a young democracy, South Africa has made a lot of progress in building a resilient economy that is inclusive.

He added that while a lot still needs to be done, he is satisfied with the progress that has been made by the country.

“I believe that as a country, given our age and the challenges, we have made good progress. We have dealt with the social issues that affect our country and we have created jobs but the only problem is that while we are creating jobs, we are losing jobs at the same time,” said the President.

Boosting Investment

Government, through the Department of Trade and Industry, introduced a number of incentives in the past few years to boost investments in the manufacturing sectors, especially textiles, leather and the automotive sectors.
The President said incentives that were introduced for the automotive sector have attracted investments of over R25 billion over the past five years.

Construction has begun in at least five Agri Parks, which include the West Rand in Gauteng, Springbokpan in North West, Witzenberg in Western Cape, Ncora in the Eastern Cape and Enkangala in Mpumalanga. The President said government often made difficult decisions and has invested in several areas to improve the quality of the life of all citizens.

“We have been working very hard to invest. For example, infrastructure is one of the very visible areas of progress that we have made in the country. We are building huge power stations to satisfy the needs of the economy and the needs of the people.

“We have worked out a national plan that is accepted by all South Africans... We have made education priority number one and we have divided the department into Basic and Higher Education to make the majority of South Africans, who were excluded before, part of the economy,” he said.

The City of Joburg is going full-steam ahead to meet its target to deliver 95 000 housing units by 2019. Many mega housing projects that will have a catalytic impact on growth in the city are either in the pipeline or in the planning stages. An amount of R657 million was set aside for housing projects in the 2015/16 financial year – almost double the allocation for the previous period. This amount will be increased to R932 million in the next financial year.

These mega projects will provide opportunities for densification, mixed-use and transit-oriented development, linking economic opportunities to places of residence. The developments are grouped into seven nodes, spread out across the city from a spatial perspective and planned according to Gauteng’s Transformation, Modernisation and Reindustrialisation programme.

The seven nodes are:

• Node 1 known as Lanseria City is located in the northern part of the city. There will be mega projects around Lion Park, in Diepsloot East, and Riverside View, Ext 28. This will yield 46 500 housing units and serve as a link between Johannesburg, Tshwane and the West Rand District Municipality.
   
• Node 2 is located in the Johannesburg North West. Projects under way include Cosmo City and the Malibongwe Ridge development, which has been allocated a further R88.8 million in the current budget. The Zandspruit development in Honeydew will proceed once environmental constraints of the wetlands have been resolved.
   
• Node 3 in the south of Johannesburg will see developments to further the city’s densification plans. Projects in South Hills and Kliptown-Nancefield are already under way and Southern Farms and Ennerdale Ext 19 will follow soon. Together the project will yield more than 68 000 units.
   
• Node 4 is focused on the Corridors of Freedom and the regeneration of the Johannesburg Inner City. This is currently in the pre-planning stage but will eventually provide 50 000 homes.
   
• Node 5 is known as New City 2 and encompasses Alexandra and Modderfontein, linking the east of the city with Ekurhuleni. New developments in Rabie Ridge, Marlboro as well as several bonded houses are in the planning stage.
   
• Node 6 links Johannesburg with Sedibeng and the West Rand to form New City 3. A total of 24 000 housing units are being built in Lufhereng and the envisaged development by the Gauteng province in Syferfontein will see the delivery of a further 60 000 homes. Issues relating to dolomite and acid mine drainage are currently being addressed.
   
• Node 7 is centred on Fleurhof. Phases 1 and 2 are both already under development and will yield 18 200 homes while future plans for Goudrand Ext 4 are being investigated.

Source: City of Joburg

Written by Noluthando Mkhize

Tshepo Mofokeng* is a nine-year-old boy who at times feels the need to be alone because he has difficulty socialising with other people.

Sometimes during class he runs outside and plays by himself.

Although this behaviour may be misunderstood by some, his teachers at the newly opened Thulasizwe School for Autism in Orlando West in Soweto understand his actions. Mofokeng was diagnosed with autism by a neurologist and psychiatrist a while ago, which explains his behaviour.

Autism is a mental condition present from early childhood. The condition is characterised by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language.

The acting principal of Thulasizwe School for the Autism, Florence Dzedzemane, said the educators who work at the school have been well trained to teach children with special needs and they understand children like Mofokeng very well. They know that sometimes he feels the need to be isolated or away from his classmates.

“Some children with autism feel overwhelmed when they are in a large crowd. Some parents cannot take them to malls for example. It’s a condition that needs to be understood and parents should educate themselves about the condition.”

She added that the school, which was recently opened by Gauteng MEC for Education Panyaza Lesufi, caters for children who have been diagnosed with autism.

This is in line with a commitment made by MEC Lesufi during the Lighting of the Mandela Bridge for Autism Day in April 2015, when he said that the department would establish 18 new special schools. He assured the attendees that these schools would include schools that would offer curriculum and support programmes for learners with autism spectrum disorder. 

The Soweto school was designed to cater for children from Orlando East and West, Dobsonville, Protea Glen, Meadowlands and Diepkloof.

Dzedzemane said that the school has 65 learners, ranging in age from three to 21.

She said some of the children attending the school were taken from surrounding special needs schools so that they could be taught in a school specialising in autism.

“We have eight learners in each class and there is an educator and a class assistant to help the educator in every class.”

The school consists of an early childhood development phase, foundation phase, middle class, senior and vocational phase.

Dzedzemane said the school follows its own curriculum that is designed for children with autism.

“The learners are taught numeracy, language and life skills. This is to help them to learn how to interact with people on the outside.

“In the vocational class where the learners are a little older, we teach skills of daily living like how to make a sandwich, for example. We will be starting a garden for these learners to teach them how to grow plants and look after them.”

She adds that learners with autism are very good at imitating what they have been taught.

With regard to the response of the opening of the school, Dzedzemane said it has been overwhelming.

“It is clear that the Department of Education did a good thing by opening this school because the need is big.”

She did, however, caution the community to educate themselves about autistic people.

“It is important for the community to understand children with autism and to accept them because they are also part of our community. People must learn to interact with autistic people.”

The school has special rooms, including an occupational therapy and physiotherapy centre, nursing room, gross motor room and sensory room.

Speaking at the launch of the school, MEC Lesufi said the school would include curriculum and support programmes for learners with autism spectrum disorder.

Former Gauteng MEC for Social Development Molebatsi Bopape urged communities to be vigilant by reporting families that are abusing children who have special needs because these children need love and care.

Allen Claire, an autism specialist at the Gauteng Department of Education, said the department looks at each child according to their challenges and sets a special programme for them.

“Whether it’s a sensory issue or a communication issue, we help the child to overcome the challenge. Children with autism are like other kids, but need extra attention,” said Claire.

*Name has been changed.

Written by Noluthando Mkhize

Following the highly successful inaugural event last year, involving 403 000 learners across 473 primary schools, SuperSport recently re-launched the Let’s Play Physical Education Challenge.

The challenge is a nationwide event targeted at Grade 4s from among South Africa’s 18 000 primary schools.

It aims to reinforce the instruction of curriculum-oriented physical education and promote physical activity in all schools.

Let’s Play coaching teams will target various schools each day to run the physical education challenge.

The fittest Grade 4 learners per school will compete, after which the top three schools per province will qualify for the provincial semifinal, leading to an overall provincial winner.

The final will take place at the end of October 2016.

The obstacle course challenge is designed to accommodate both boys and girls and will be standardised at every competing school.

It includes football slalom dribble, catch and throw, mini hurdles, rope pull and an agility drill, all of which are completed in a matter of minutes.

“School sport is the bedrock of sports in the country and the Department of Basic Education has taken a conscious decision to encourage learners to participate in a variety of sport activities,” said Dr Granville Whittle, Department of Basic Education’s Deputy Director-General for Care and Support.

While activity is the central focus of the challenge, it will also draw attention to major social issues among youngsters, such as bullying.

Ultimate Fighting Championship athlete and Let’s Play ambassador Garreth ‘Soldierboy’ McLellan, as well as leading sports personalities, will make appearances at schools to address the issue.

“We believe that this is a meaningful way to get schools involved in physical activity, particularly as government has highlighted the need for children to become more active,” said Vaughn Bishop, head of Let’s Play.

“Children don’t need to be superstars. The challenge is designed to accommodate everyone at primary school level.”

The fittest primary school per province will compete for the title and the grand prize of a R1.3 million all-purpose, all-weather, multi-use sport court to be built at the winning school, sponsored by the Sports Trust.

The Sports Trust is an independent organisation jointly established in 1994 by the private and public sectors focusing on sport development in rural communities.

“Being able to participate in sport, provide sustainable programmes in our schools and nurture young talent is key to the future of South African sport in our country,” said Anita Mathews, Executive Director of the Sports Trust. 

“We are proud to continue supporting this programme by sponsoring yet another sport court for the 2016 competition, and enhancing education through sport,” Mathews said.

The Department of Basic Education, the Department of Sport and Recreation, the Sports Trust, the Physical Education Institute of SA, Unicef and MultiChoice endorse the Let’s Play Physical Education Challenge.

During the 2015/16 Budget Vote, Minister of Sports Fikile Mbalula said school sport remains the only viable and currently structured mechanism through which to truly address issues of development in sport.

“To that end, we are committed to maximising access to sport, recreation and physical activity in every school in South Africa.”

He said the success of the school sport programme requires well-oiled, motivated and capacitated machinery.

“Last year, a total of 726 schools were allocated sport equipment and attire as part of our rolling intervention to provide capacity to a specific number of schools.

 

Government officials who fail to release payment for artists on time should be held accountable for their actions.

This is according to Free State Premier Ace Magashule, who was speaking during a special meeting with artists recently.

The meeting was called by the Premier after some disgruntled artists threatened to march to the Premier’s office to register their grievances.

“By not paying our artists on time, we’re breaking the law. Those entrusted with the responsibility of doing so much should be held accountable.

“It is unacceptable and there should be dire consequences for government officials responsible for such acts,” said the Premier, to the applause of the disgruntled artists who accused the provincial arts department of not supporting them.

The Premier also said that more local artists would be included in the province’s annual Mangaung African Cultural Festival (MACUFE). 

“What we need to do is ensure that we have more local artists featured in the line-up so that we balance the equation, that request is practical,” he added.

He added that the province would host a festival for local artists in the near future, which could be turned into an annual event.

A multi-million Rand road upgrade project is set to benefit thousands of community members in Lephalale, in Limpopo. The project, which was launched by Mayor Jack Maeko in December last year, will improve access to transport and efficient roads for 13 villages, allowing community members to move freely and safely in and around in the area.

Exxaro Grootegeluk Coal and Roads Agency Limpopo (RAL) awarded a tender to design the Ga-Seleka roads to Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd. Community members living in anda round the villages of  Sefithlogo, Morwe, Botshabelo, Moong, Segale, Botsalanag, Kopanong, Kgobagodimo and Letlora will benefit from the Rietfontein Road ((D3102 and D3114) upgrade. The upgrading of Road D3109 will benefit residents from Kiti, Motsweding, Dipompong and Mokuruanyane.

Delivering the keynote address at the signing ceremony, Mayor Maeko thanked RAL and Exxaro for their contribution to infrastructure development. “The government needs the private sector to act in the best interest of the community. Everything is possible as long as we work together. This road project will create many employment opportunities and alleviate poverty,” said Mayor Maeko. He urged the councillors and community leaders to communicate the progress to their constituencies. Exxaro Group Manager for Community Development, Ramesh Chhagan said Exxaro is committed to powering possibilities.

“The road will allow free movement of people and lead to the creation of various economic opportunities. We remain committed to making a meaningful contribution to the Lephalale community to ensure that we leave this place in a much better condition than we found it,” said Chhagan. RAL CEO Petros Matji commended the project team for expediting the process to ensure there’s notable progress on the project.

“To ensure skills transfer and local SMME empowerment, Aurecon will work closely with Exxaro, RAL and Lephalale Local Municipality during the design phase,” said Matji.

In addition, labour intensive methods will be used during construction and this will benefit the large number of unemployed community members, mainly youth from the surrounding villages.

Going Back To Basics

As part of the Back to Basics campaign Mayor Maeko officially opened an information centre in Marapong recently. Through the centre community members no longer have to travel long distances to submit their CVs for the municipality’s municipal database. “The municipality has taken the responsibility of ensuring that in all the economic developments around the area, local communities are prioritised when it comes to employment,” said Mayor Maeko.  

Two community liaison officers have been appointed to help manage the information centre. The Back to Basics programme, launched by President Jacob Zuma in September 2014, aims to ensure that municipalities serve communities better by providing efficient access to basic services.

South Africans have been encouraged to register to vote in the upcoming local government elections.

The first registration weekend will be on 5 and 6 March. President Jacob Zuma announced during the State of the Nation Address, in Parliament, that the local government elections will be held within three months after 18 May, the date of the last local government elections.

“We urge the youth, in particular those who are turning 18 this year, to register in their numbers for this first ever opportunity to cast their votes,” said President Zuma.

Finding your correct voting station

All eligible voters (South African citizens aged 18 or older) should ensure they are registered in the correct voting district where they ordinarily live. Voters who are already registered can SMS their ID number to 32810 (cost R1) to receive confirmation of their voter registration details including the name of their voting station.

Voters need to take with them their green barcoded ID book, smart ID card or a valid temporary ID certificate to the voting station. No other forms of ID are accepted for voter registration. It’s important for voters to vote where they live.

 

Smart technology is increasingly changing the lives of residents of Joburg as the city’s rollout of ICT infrastructure gathers momentum.

In the next six months the city will continue to expand Wi-Fi coverage and introduce new technology that improves the interaction with residents and raises the quality of service delivery. The “Smart City” concept highlighted by Mayor Tau in his State of the City Address is starting to take shape. “Digital access is becoming as much an equity issue in our society as access to water and electricity,” says Mayor Tau.

The Smart City Flagship programme has already achieved a number of milestones and will continue to be rolled out in the last half of the current financial year.

The availability of free Wi-Fi is spreading across the city. More than 100 city-owned buildings are already connected and 370 Wi-Fi sites have gone live. A wireless mesh has been introduced in Braamfontein, enabling people to connect to free Wi-Fi on laptops tablets and enabled mobile phones and download, up to 1GB per month for free.

Some 35 libraries in Johannesburg are linked to the broadband network and a further 52 will follow by mid-2016. Fast and free broadband will give Joburg residents access to massive open online varsities where they can do course work and receive qualifications from internationally accredited institutions.

Unlocking Creativity

Through the #Hack.Jozi Challenge the city attracted innovative and entrepreneurial locals who came up with great ideas for digital products that will help to solve problems in their respective communities. An amount of R5 million has been set aside to support digital start-up enterprises in the Smart City.

Given the rapid migration of people towards cities, there is a growing realisation that future solutions for the most pressing issues facing humanity will have to be found in the urban spheres and led by local government leaders. Some cities are increasingly looking south, to cities such as Johannesburg, for inspiration and innovation.

This is a role that Johannesburg as an aspirant world-class African city is willing to warm up to.

Source: City of Joburg

Written by Thandeka Ngobese

Thousands of youth in the Imbabazane Local Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Midlands stand to benefit from an agricultural programme that is expected to create much-needed job opportunities. 

The agricultural programme is a KZN Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) initiative that forms part of government’s Comprehensive Rural Development Programme that aims to tackle issues such as underdevelopment, food security, unemployment, poverty and other social ills which have become synonymous with rural areas.

KZN Cogta MEC Nomusa Dube-Ncube said the department had invested R17 million in this project – a first of its kind in the country. The project is expected to break the chains of poverty that have for years plagued the Imbabazane Local Municipality, which falls under the uThukela District Municipality.

MEC Dube-Ncube said the department was approached by local amakhosi in 2012, each of whom agreed to make available some land to grow crops with the intention of subsequently adding value to them through agroprocessing to increase their retail value.

“We believe that our people, led by the local amakhosi, have the ability to free themselves from the shackles of poverty. I have visited one of the potato farms and I was impressed with their good work. As a caring government, we will support this programme because it will grow the local economy in the traditional areas where people are languishing in poverty,” said MEC Dube-Ncube.

She added that plans were at an advanced stage to build a colossal pack house where crops that had been harvested would be processed and sent to market. Negotiations also were under way with big food retailers to consider buying products from this programme.

“Our ultimate plan is to roll this programme out to other districts. I believe that with an initiative of this nature we will push back the frontiers of poverty. We are appealing to all beneficiaries of this programme to come up with new ideas. We do not want our people to sell these products raw as they are currently doing, but we want them to be innovative and process them so that they make more money,” said the MEC.

All farms will employ young people who have undergone comprehensive training in agriculture to ensure that the programme will not collapse. Working under the supervision of a seasoned implementing agent, they are further mentored by local farmers in, among others, the usage of modern ploughing machinery.

One of the participants, Mbongiseni Mazibuko, said the money they earn will help them install irrigation material on their farm.

“We are now free from poverty through the help of our government,” he said.

Inkosi Sibonelo Mkhize of Abambo Traditional Council in Hlathikhulu said when they approached MEC Dube-Ncube in 2012, they did not expect such a quick reaction. “This shows that our government is for the people,” he said.

Written by Noluthando Mkhize

When government launched the tuberculosis (TB) screening campaign last year, it aimed to encourage all South Africans – particularly those in mining communities, inmates at correctional facilities and those in early childhood development centres – to be screened and tested for TB.

The campaign, launched by Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa and Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, aims to reduce the number of new infections and related deaths. The massive, three-year TB screening programme is similar to the HIV counselling and testing campaign rolled out in 2010.

Government identified six priority peri-mining districts for the screening campaign, namely:

• Lejweleputswa in the Free State.
• West Rand in Gauteng.
• Sekhukhune and Waterberg in Limpopo.
• Bojanala and Dr Kenneth Kaunda in the North West.

Inmates at correctional centres are also part of the programme. TB is one of the major diseases responsible for illness and mortality worldwide. In South Africa, TB kills 80 per cent of HIV-positive people. TB is responsible for 120 000 deaths annually and, through the campaign, government wants to reduce this number to less than 20 000.

David Mametja, Head of the TB Control & Management Programme with the Department of Health, said there have been some improvements since the launch of the campaign, however, the provision of TB and HIV care to under-served people is still a challenge. He added that the department was the principal recipient of the Global Fund TB Grant of US$ 54 million (or R483 million) to be used to turn the tide against TB in South Africa.

“The grant focuses on key under-served people, namely: people infected with MDR-TB, inmates in correctional facilities as well as miners and community members living in areas around the mines, known in this programme as the peri–mining communities.

“Non-government organisations were appointed to implement the grant activities,” he said.

Written by Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

Helen Monyemorathoe (21) is a step closer to her dream of becoming a retail manager, all thanks to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) education assistance programme.

She grew up in Ga-Mogodi in Limpopo and has always been committed to her studies. Monyemorathoe is the proud recipient of a TRC bursary, which is awarded to victims and dependents of identified TRC victims.  Her father, Moditsha Andries Monyemorathoe, was beaten, suffocated and tear-gassed in January 1986 in Pietersburg (now Polokwane) in Limpopo, by members of the alleged Civil Co-operation Bureau (CCB).

It is reported that they wanted him to confess to receiving orders from Oliver Tambo to make the country ungovernable. Afterwards, CCB members often harassed him in the presence of pupils at the school where he was a teacher. Monyemarothoe admires and appreciates the role played by her father in her life. “He always shows me the right way, always supports me greatly and encourages me to work hard at my studies,” she said. Monyemarotho is a third-year National Diploma: Retail Management student at the University of Johannesburg. “I really enjoy this course because the retail industry is improving in our country, and the needs of consumers are changing every day,” she explained.

Nolwandle Charlotte Hadebe (18), another recipient of a TRC bursary, has many reasons to smile this year, as her dream to study law has been realised. With two distinctions in matric, Hadebe easily gained university entrance and is working towards her goal of becoming a lawyer. She is currently a full-time student at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, where she is studying a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Law. Hadebe is a dependant of her late grandfather, Derrick Majola, who was identified as a TRC victim. Majola was the chairperson of both the Bruntville ANC branch and Civic Association. He and his wife Mavis were killed on 24 April 1991, when four armed men attacked their home.

Hadebe’s life has completely changed as she is now living and learning in the real world. “This is my first time living away from my mother and siblings. It’s tough but I am grateful for the experience,” she explained. Growing up in a single-parent household with no income was very challenging for her but she never gave up on her dream. She was raised by her mother Thabisile Hadebe who is unemployed because of a medical condition. Hadebe’s father, Bonginkosi Majola, is also happy that his daughter received the bursary.

“I appreciate the help from those who didn't forget about us and also thank the Richmond Parliamentary Constituency Office for keeping us abreast of the developments concerning financial assistance from the TRC,” he said.

Access to education for TRC victims

During the TRC process government realised that the subjection of people to gross human rights violations under apartheid disrupted their education and or their duty to enable their dependents to access education.

As a result Parliament approved the TRC’s recommendation on medical benefits and other forms of social assistance, inclusive of educational assistance. The TRC Unit was established within the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in September 2005 with a view to co-ordinate, monitor and report on the implementation of TRC recommendations on an ongoing basis.

In 2005, the then Department of Education set aside R5 million from its budget vote to assist victims and their qualifying relatives to access tertiary education. From this money, the TRC reparations bursary programme was established and placed within the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the purpose of administration. A total of 66 students are currently receiving assistance in various academic institutions through the TRC reparations bursary programme. The bursary covers all costs, including the registration fee, tuition fees, accommodation, meals, prescribed text- books and travelling allowance where applicable.

• Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi works for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development .

 

Branch: Curriculum Policy, Support and Monitoring
Chief Directorate: Curriculum Implementation and Monitoring
Directorate: Curriculum Implementation and Quality Improvement
(Further Education and Training – Grades 10-12)

Director: Curriculum Implementation and Quality Improvement (FET)
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R864 177 per annum (Ref. 124601/1)

Requirements: • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifi cation in curriculum implementation and quality improvement in the FET band coupled with relevant experience in the relevant fi eld • At least 5 years’ experience in working within the FET band, in the Basic Education Sector • Knowledge of the key challenges in Further Education and Training (FET) and how these can be mediated to improve learner performance in schools • In-depth knowledge of the National Curriculum Statement and its implementation in the FET sector • Knowledge of the National Qualifi cations Framework and Curriculum Development processes • Knowledge of and ability to work with critical stakeholders within the Sector to strengthen the implementation of FET • Ability to ensure the development and implementation of Norms and Standards in line with Sections 3 and 8 of the National Education Policy Act • Ability to provide strategic leadership to the FET sector • Good general management skills • Thorough understanding of and experience in all processes involved in project management • Ability to coordinate and manage the fi nances of the Directorate in line with the PFMA and procurement processes • Good and functional knowledge of Government prescripts, knowledge of Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting systems and processes and project management • Planning and organising skills • Strong leadership skills • Advanced computer skills • Good interpersonal relations and the ability to handle pressure • Valid driver’s licence.

Note: All short-listed candidates for the above post will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, whilst selected interviewed candidates will be subjected to a 2-day competency assessment that will test generic managerial competencies. Appointments will be subject to the signing of a performance agreement, employment contract and annual fi nancial disclosures.

Director: Curriculum Innovation and e-Learning
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R864 177 per annum (Ref. 124601/2)

Requirements: • SAQA recognised B degree (NQF 7) in Education, ICT or related fi eld plus extensive experience in e-Learning and proven management experience • Minimum experience of 5 years at middle/senior managerial level • Leadership skills and proven management ability • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Excellent writing skills • Extensive ICT skills • Strong project management skills • Knowledge of the education environment • Ability to deal with large datasets and manage research processes • Understanding of current education policies and trends in the use of ICTs in education • Knowledge of business and management principles • Knowledge of strategic planning, resource allocation and human resources and skills development, Public Service Act and Regulations, NSDS, SETAs • Sound knowledge of risk management, corporate governance and internal control, PFMA and applicable auditing standards • Develop and manage implementation of Human Resource Development policies.

Note: All short-listed candidates for the above post will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, whilst selected interviewed candidates will be subjected to a 2-day competency assessment that will test generic managerial competencies. Appointments will be subject to the signing of a performance agreement, employment contract and annual fi nancial disclosures.

Chief Education Specialist (Business, Commerce and Management - (BCM)
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R703 932 per annum (Ref. 124601/3)

Requirements: • Appropriate 3-year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualifi cation) supplemented by at least 8 years’ teaching experience, including management experience in BCM subjects, supporting and supervising teachers in provinces and district/s • Extensive knowledge of and insight into education policies and legislation for Further Education and Training, Grades 10-12 • Sound knowledge of issues, challenges and initiatives, pertaining to the teaching and learning, and promotion and progression in South Africa • Research and development skills • Strategic planning skills • Verbal and written communication skills • Experience in policy-making processes • Computer literacy • Sound knowledge of and experience in the development of curriculum and assessment in the fi eld BCM ie Accounting, Business Studies and Economics • Ability to take initiative with regard to challenges and promote, plan and implement effective teaching and learning of BCM subjects • Ability to work in a team and knowledge of at least two offi cial languages will be added advantages.

Chief Education Specialist Languages (African Languages)
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R703 932 per annum (Ref. 124601/4)

Requirements: • Appropriate three-year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualifi cation) specialising in at least one or two languages, one of which should be a previously marginalised African language and a professional teaching qualifi cation • At least 8 years’ teaching experience, including management experience in languages, supporting and supervising teachers in provinces and districts • Extensive knowledge of and insight into education policies and legislation for Further Education and Training (Grades 10-12) • Sound knowledge of issues, challenges and initiatives pertaining to the teaching and learning of the previously marginalised African languages in schools is essential • Sound research skills • Strategic planning skills • Verbal and written communication skills • Computer literacy • Experience in policy-making processes • Sound knowledge of and experience in the development of curriculum and assessment in the fi eld of Languages (African languages) are crucial • Ability to take initiative with regard to languagerelated challenges, promotion, planning and implementing effective teaching and learning of the previously marginalised African languages • Ability to work in a team and knowledge of at least 3 offi cial languages will be an added advantage.

Chief Education Specialist: Mechanical and Electrical Technology Subjects
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R703 932 per annum (Ref. 124601/5)

Requirements: • Appropriate 4-year Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifi cation and at least 8 years’ teaching experience • Extensive knowledge of Mechanical and Electrical Technology subjects offered in Grade 10 – 12 • Knowledge of issues, challenges and initiatives pertaining to the promotion, teaching and learning of and materials development for Mechanical and Electrical Technology subjects is essential • Research skills • Strategic planning skills • Verbal and written communication skills • Computer literacy • Knowledge of the interpretation and management of budgets and management of curriculum development and support programmes.

Note: Short-listed candidates will do a computer competency test.

Directorate: Inclusive Education Chief Education Specialist
Salary: All-inclusive remuneration package of R703 932 per annum (Ref. 124601/6)

The Department of Basic Education is implementing White Paper 6: Special Needs Education: Building an Inclusive Education and Training System. The implementation of this policy area is through various activities including the strengthening of special schools and their progressive conversion to Resource Centres. This policy imperative is a highly specialised area and therefore requires relevant skills for its realisation and its subsequent contribution to the Department’s drive to improve the quality of education for all learners including those with special needs.

Requirements: • Recognised and appropriate 3-year post-matriculation or equivalent qualifi cation at degree level • Master’s degree in the related fi eld of study will be an added advantage • At least 5 years’ experience at managerial level in the special needs environment, providing specialist services in areas of curriculum development and assessment • Experience in the development and implementation of individual support plans • In-depth knowledge and understanding of learning disabilities and mediating their impact on teaching and learning through remedial education as well as the concept of barriers to learning and support provisioning in general • Knowledge and understanding of the relevant education policies and legislation including White Paper 6 • Strong analytical, verbal and written communication skills • Project management and computer skills are essential • Ability to work under pressure and as part of a team is critical • Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel.

NB: Selection process: The application must be prepared to undergo an intensive selection process involving interviews, tasks to be completed on focused activities within a specifi ed time eg developing, writing and delivering presentations on supplied topics. Applications must be submitted on form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service department, and must be accompanied by a comprehensive CV and certifi ed copies of qualifi cations.

Please forward your application, quoting the reference number, to: Mr A Tsamai, Department of Basic Education, Private Bag

X895, Pretoria 0001 or hand deliver to Sol Plaatje House, 222 Struben Street, Pretoria.
Correspondence will only be entered into with short-listed applicants.
Closing date: 4 March 2016
Late/faxed/e-mailed applications will not be considered.

Enquiries: Mr A Tsamai, tel. (012) 357-3321

SOLICITOR GENERAL
(5 years renewable contract) REFERENCE:16/26/CLO
PACKAGE: R1 267 806 – R1 428 186 per annum
(All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

JOB PURPOSE:  To oversee and coordinate the establishment of a single Unit: State Legal Services to represent government and organs of state in courts of law; Determine the legal position that government will take in the Constitutional/Supreme Court and to provide legal advice.

REQUIREMENTS: An undergraduate legal qualification (NQF level 7) and a post graduate qualification (NQF level 8) as recognized by SAQA in Business Administration and/or Public Administration; At least 8 - 10 years experience at a senior managerial level; 10 years experience, inter alia, practicing as a lawyer, commercial/corporate lawyer, drafting, opinion writing and subordinate legislation; Admittance as an Attorney/Advocate in any division of the High Court of South Africa or previously admitted as an Attorney and practiced as such; Knowledge of, inter alia, interpretation of statues, administrative law, constitutional law; Public Service experience would be an advantage; Avalid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES:  Ms N Jacobs (012) 315 1186

DIRECTOR: NATIONAL OPERATIONS CENTRE
REFERENCE:16/27/COO
PACKAGE: R864 177 – R1 017 972 per annum
(All inclusive).  The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Statistics/Information Management or related fields as recognized by SAQA; At least 6 - 10 years’ experience of which 5 years must be at middle/senior managerial level; Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES:  Mr. MC Kekana (012) 357 8023

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: SYSTEMS MANAGER
(BUSINESS SYSTEMS SUPPORT MAINTENANCE)           
(CONTRACT APPOINTMENT ENDING: SEPTEMBER 2018) REFERENCE:16/38/ISM
PACKAGE: R569 538 – R670 890 per annum (All inclusive).The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: A National Diploma/Degree in Information Technology or equivalent qualification at NQF6; Three (3) years experience in an IT environment with focus on Business Application Maintenance, Functional Support and testing; A minimum of 1 year experience in SLA Management; The following will serve as an advantage:- Experience in Application Development and exposure to development of IT policies, procedures and processes, ITIL as well as IT auditing standards; Experience in Project Management, Change Management, End User Training and business applications deployment/implementation.

ENQUIRIES:  Ms E Zeekoei (012) 315 1436

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: FRAUD & CORRUPTION PREVENTION, (02 POSTS)
REFERENCE:16/39/COO
SALARY: R289 761 - R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor’sDegree/Public Administration/Management or equivalent qualification; 3 years experience in fraud and corruption prevention, including investigations and public service anti-fraud and anti-corruption policies and strategies; Knowledge of Departmental policies and legal framework; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES:  Ms. M. Modibane (012) 315 1668

CLUSTER MANAGER: COURT INTERPRETING
(05 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 29/16/WC
SALARY: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum.  The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: NQF level 4/ Grade 12 and National Diploma in Legal Interpreting at NQF level 5 or any other relevant tertiary qualification at NQF level 5; Proficiency in English and two or more indigenous languages; Six years’ practical experience as a Court Interpreter with minimum three years supervisory experience; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES:  Mr J January  (021) 462 5471

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
REFERENCE: 38/15EC
SALARY: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum.  The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: 3 years National Diploma/Degree in Human Resources or relevant field; Three years supervisory experience; A valid driver’s licence; The following will serve as an added advantage: 6 years experience in Human Resources.

ENQUIRIES: Mrs. Pretorius (043) 702 7000

ASSISTANT STATE ATTORNEY, (LP3-LP4) (06 POSTS)
REFERENCE:  16/33/CLO
SALARY: R229 773   – R657 924. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement        

REQUIREMENTS: An LLB or 4 year recognized legal qualification; At least 2 years appropriate post legal/litigation experience; Admission as an Attorney; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. Khanyi Ngomani (012) 357 8661

ASSISTANT STATE ATTORNEY, (LP3-LP4) (02 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 16/34/CLO
SALARY: R229 773 – R657 924.  (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination).The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement    

REQUIREMENTS:  An LLB or 4 year recognized legal qualification; Admission as an Attorney; At least 2 years appropriate post legal/litigation experience; Right of appearance in the High Court of South Africa; A valid driver’s licence; Admission as Conveyance.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. Khanyi Ngomani (012) 357 8661

 

THE CLOSING DATE FOR ALL POSTS IS: 07 MARCH 2016

NOTE:
Interested applicants may visit the following website: www.justice.gov.za or www.dpsa.gov.za to view the full job specification of the above positions. Applications must be submitted on Form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department or on the internet at www.gov.za. A Z83 form & CV must be accompanied by original certified copies of qualifications and identity document and a driver’s licence where necessary.  A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications.  Applications that do not comply with the above mentioned requirements will not be considered. All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which will be communicated. Following the interview and technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment (in compliance with the DPSA Directive on the implementation of competency based assessments).  Candidate will complete a financial disclosure form and also be required to undergo a security clearance. If the candidate is applying for an OSD post, certificates of service must be attached to the CV.

The DOJ&CD is an equal opportunity employer. In the filling of vacant posts the objectives of section 195 (1) (i) of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act No: 108 of 1996), the Employment Equity imperatives as defined by the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No: 55 of 1998) and relevant Human Resources policies of the Department will be taken into consideration.  Reasonable accommodation shall be applied for People with Disabilities including where drivers licence is a requirement.  Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a personnel vetting process. Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you do not hear from us within 3 months of this advertisement, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.  The department reserves the right not to fill these positions.  Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply and preference will be given to the EE Target.

CHIEF DIRECTOR: INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT (CONTRACT APPOINTMENT ENDING SEPTEMBER 2018)
REFERENCE: 16/47/ISM
PACKAGE: R1 042 500 – R1 246 449 per annum (All inclusive) The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Information Systems/Technology/Computer Science as recognized by SAQA.; 5 years experience in the senior managerial level role in ICT, Data Centers, Networks, End User Computing & Security (Architecture, Operations & Projects) will be an added advantage;; A relevant enterprise architecture certificate and experience will be an added advantage.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. E Sebelebele ( (012) 357 8662

 

DIRECTOR: THIRD PARTY FUNDS: ACCOUNTING (FIXED – TERM CONTRACT UP TO 31 JULY 2017) (THIS IS A RE-ADVERT AND PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT RE-APPLY AS THEY WILL BE CONSIDERED)
REFERENCE: 16/49/CFO
PACKAGE: R864 177 – R1 017 972 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Financial Accounting as a major subject; At least 6 -10 years experience in accounting environment of which 5 years must be at middle/senior managerial level; Intermediate Level Efficiency on Excel and the use of Large Databases; Thorough knowledge of GRAP disclosure requirements, accrual accounting as well as modified cash and cash accounting; Recent experience in preparation and oversight of GRAP compliant financial statements in a large environment; Practical experience in facilitating positive audit outcomes; A valid driver’s licence. The following will serve as recommendations: Knowledge of Public Financial Management Act (PFMA), National Treasury Regulations; Knowledge of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and its Third Party Funds (TPF) functions and services; Experience in Third Party Funds Administration at National, Regional or Court level; Experience on the Justice Deposit Account System (JDAS) and/or State Attorney System (SAS); Working knowledge of SAP; CA (SA)

ENQUIRIES: Ms. E Zeekoei (012) 315 1436

 

DIRECTOR: CARA AND PRESIDENT FUND
REFERENCE: 16/48/CFO
PACKAGE: R864 177 – R1 017 972 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in Financial Accounting as a major subject as recognized by SAQA; At least 6 - 10 years’ experience of which 5 years must be at middle/ senior managerial level; Thorough knowledge of Modified Cash Accounting and Disclosure requirements; Thorough understanding of Financial Reporting in terms of GRAP; Experience in the preparation of Annual Financial Statements and Financial reporting in general; Practical experience in facilitating positive audit outcomes; A valid driver’s licence. The following will serve as added advantage: Knowledge of Public Financial Management Act (PFMA), National Treasury Regulations; Experience in working on the BAS and Pastel system; Knowledge of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and its Crime Asset Recovery Account (CARA) and President Fund functions and services will be an added advantage.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. E Zeekoei (012) 315 1436

 

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: BIDS AND NEGOTIATIONS
REFERENCE: 16/40/CFO
SALARY: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: Degree/ National Diploma in Logistics Management/Purchasing Management; 3 years working experience on tenders of which 2 years should be at supervisory responsibilities; Knowledge of PFMA, PPPFA, BBBEE, Treasury Regulations and other relevant prescripts; Knowledge of procurement policies and procedures.

ENQUIRIES: Ms E. Sebelebele ( (012) 357 8662

 

ASSISTANT MASTER, MR3- MR5 (02 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 16/41/MAS MAFIKENG (1)
REFERENCE: 16/44/MAS PIETERMARITZBURG (1)
SALARY: R195 945 – R708 765 per annum. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: LLB Degree or four years recognized legal qualification; 2 years appropriate post qualification legal experience; Knowledge of the Administration of Estates Act, Compliance Act, Mental Health Act, Insolvency Act, Companies Act, Close Corporations Act, Trust Property Control Act and other relevant legislation; Experience in the functional field and services provided by Master’s of the High Court.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. M Lehong (012) 315 1264 and Mr. S. Maeko (012) 315 1996

 

SENIOR LEGAL ADMINISTRATION OFFICER MR6 – LOSSES (READVERTISEMENT
PREVIOUS APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO RE-APPLY)
REFERENCE: 16/VA15/NW
SALARY: R364 566 – R886 107 (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An LLB Degree or equivalent qualification; At least 8 years appropriate post qualification legal experience; 3 years experience in losses; 3 years supervisory experience; Sound knowledge of the South African legal system; A valid driver’s licence

ENQUIRIES: Mr.B Sibiya ( (018) 397 7061.

 

ESTATE CONTROLLER EC1 (10 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 16/42/MAS: DURBAN (6)
REFERENCE: 16/46/MAS: PIETERMARITZBURG (4)
SALARY: R151 233 per annum. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An LLB degree or recognized four years legal qualification.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. M Lehong (012) 315 1264 & Mr. S. Maeko (012) 315 1996

 

CLOSING DATE IS 14 MARCH 2016

NOTE: Interested applicants may visit the following website: www. justice.gov.za or www.dpsa.gov.za to view the full job specification of the above positions. Applications must be submitted on Form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department or on the internet at www.gov.za. A Z83 form & CV must be accompanied by original certified copies of qualifications and identity document and a driver’s licence where necessary. A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Applications that do not comply with the above mentioned requirements will not be considered.

All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which will be communicated. Following the interview and technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment (in compliance with the DPSA Directive on the implementation of competency based assessments). Candidate will complete a financial disclosure form and also be required to undergo a security clearance. If the candidate is applying for an OSD post, certificates of service must be attached to the CV.

The DOJ&CD is an equal opportunity employer. In the filling of vacant posts the objectives of section 195 (1) (i) of the Constitution of South Africa, 1996 (Act No: 108 of 1996), the Employment Equity imperatives as defined by the Employment Equity Act, 1998 (Act No: 55 of 1998) and relevant Human Resources policies of the Department will be taken into consideration. Reasonable accommodation shall be applied for People with Disabilities including where drivers licence is a requirement. Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a personnel vetting process. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you do not hear from us within 3 months of this advertisement, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. The department reserves the right not to fill these positions. Women and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply and preference will be given to the EE Target.

MANAGEMENT ECHELON
DIRECTOR: WATER ABSTRACTION AND INSTREAM USE
SALARY: R 864 177 per annum (All inclusive package) level 13
REF NO: 120316/01
CENTRE: Pretoria

REQUIREMENTS: A Bachelor Degree (NQF 7) in an Engineering field (e.g. Agricultural, Civil, Water Resources, Environmental or relevant qualification. Six (6) to ten (10) years experience in WRM, Policy and Strategy Development, and Project Management experience of which 5 years of experience should be at a middle/senior management level. Understanding of policy development and integrated water resources management. Knowledge of integrated water resource management, National Water Act (NWA), National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), BBBEE Act, Disaster Management Act and understanding of South African Constitutional Act. Registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer.

DUTIES: Oversee and provide specialist technical inputs as well as ethical professional judgement and leadership in compliance with legal and policy requirement in the evaluation & regulation of abstraction & in-stream water uses. Support WRM awareness and training programmes e.g. Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) series. Co-ordinate the assessment of WRM research needs and support structured interaction between the SA. Water Sector and the SA Research Environment. Oversee and provide specialist technical inputs as well as ethical professional judgement and leadership in the review. Manage the development and implementation of policies, legislation, protocols and guidelines for management of water resource and safety of dams. Reporting on statutory environmental accounting requirement for DWS in terms of consolidated Environmental. Implementation and management Plan (CEIMP); people management and financial management.

ENQUIRIES: Ms B Naidoo, tel (012) 336 6581

 

DIRECTOR: PROVINCIAL CO-ORDINATION AND REPORTING
R 864, 177 per annum (All inclusive package) level 13
REF NO: 120316/02
CENTRE: Pretoria

REQUIREMENTS: A B-Degree or NQF level 7 in Public Administration or relevant qualification. Five (5) to ten (10) years experience in water and sanitation or related environment of five (5) years should be at middle/senior managerial level. Knowledge of relevant legislation and experience in governmental legal processes, legislation and contracts. Knowledge of PFMA, public service regulation, treasury regulations and water sector dynamics.

DUTIES: To ensure management of the Finance and Human Resources. To manage coordination of Ministerials, Cabs Memos, Parliamentary Questions and strategic projects. Stakeholder liaison, communication of relevant meetings. To oversee administration of the Chief Directorate: Operational Support Co-ordination & Consolidation.

ENQUIRIES: Ms P Ramunenyiwa, tel (012) 336 8065

 

DIRECTOR: WATER SECTOR SUPPORT
R 864 177 per annum (All inclusive package) level 13
REF NO: 120316/03
CENTRE: Gauteng

REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Social Sciences/ Natural Sciences or relevant qualification (NQF 7). Five (5) to (10) ten years experience of which five (5) years of experience should be at a middle/senior management level. Sound knowledge and understanding of public management and knowledge of legislative regime. Strategic capability and leadership. Programme and project management. Financial management. Change management. Knowledge management. Service delivery innovation (SDI). Problem solving and analysis. People management and empowerment. Client orientation and customer focus. Communication. Accountability and ethical focus.

DUTIES: To provide leadership to Directorate. To conducts strategic and business planning for the Directorate. To ensure effective development and implementation of policies and strategic for the section functions. To facilitate the rendering of support to institutions. To manage rendering of technical support services. To promotion of inter-government relatives. To ensure effective planning and support of the water sector.

ENQUIRIES: Ms P Ramunenyiwa, tel (012) 336 8065

 

DIRECTOR: REGULATION
R 864, 177 per annum (All inclusive package) level 13
REF NO: 120316/04
CENTRE: Mbombela

REQUIREMENTS: A Bachelor Degree in Science or relevant qualification (NQF 7). Five (5) to ten (10) years experience in Water Resources Management or environmental sector of which Five (5) years of experience should be at Middle/ Senior Management level. General Management and Presentation skills. Good Negotiation skills. Good Communication/Interpersonal skills. Policy and Strategy Development Skills. Knowledge of relevant Regulatory Legislation. Project and Programme Management. Integrated Water Resources Management. A valid driver’s licence.

DUTIES: Provide Strategic Leadership in the Directorate. Develop and share a vision and mission for the section. Promote team building within and beyond the section. Ensure adequate support to subordinates. Promote transformation within the section. Ensure the culture of innovation and performance improvement suggestions scheme. Advise top management and relevant sector bodies on policies and strategies relevant to the Directorate. Communicate effectively with stakeholders in the sector about the functions of the Directorate. Conduct strategic and business planning for the Directorate. Participate as a key player in the Water and Sanitation strategic plan function. Develop an expenditure forecast on quarterly basis for the Directorate. Manage both Human and Financial resources of the Directorate. Manage the Development of Employees within the unit. Ensure that HRD policies are applied for all staff members within the Directorate. Ensure effective development and implementation of policies and strategies for the Directorate. Ensure water use, regulation and efficiency. Ensure equitable water allocation. Ensure compliance and enforcement. Manage the compliance of water programmes within the national regulatory framework. Ensure regular communication with all relevant stakeholders. Manage and oversee environmental data registry.

ENQUIRIES: Mr M Mulaudzi, Tel no: 013-759 7311

NB: Preference will be given to people with disabilities/ African Female, Indians, Coloureds, whites and followed by African Males

 

DIRECTOR: MANAGEMENT SUPPORT
R864, 177 per annum (All inclusive package) level 13
REF NO: 120316/05
CENTRE: Pretoria

REQUIREMENTS: A Degree or NQF 7 qualification in Social Science or relevant qualification. A legal qualification will be an added advantage. Six (6) to ten (10) years in Legal, Regulatory/Water environment/ legislative development managing information of which five (5) years of experience should be at a middle/senior management level. Knowledge of relevant legislation. Knowledge of and experience in government legal processes, legislation and contracts. Knowledge of PFMA, public service regulation and treasury regulations. Knowledge of water sector dynamics. Strategic capability, leadership skills, programme and project management. Financial Management.

DUTIES:To manage development of strategic and business plan. To ensure management of the office and human resource management. Coordination of Ministerials, Cab Memos, parliamentary questions and strategic projects. Stakeholder liaison, communication and management of relevant events.

ENQUIRIES: Ms B Naidoo, tel (012) 336 6581

 

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: COMPLIANCE MONITORING
674 979.00 All inclusive package (level 12)
REF NO: 120316/06
CENTRE: Mbombela

REQUIREMENTS: National Diploma or Degree in Science, or equivalent qualification in Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Water Care or Engineering plus appropriate experience. Three (3) to five (5) years experience in Integrated Water Resource Management and strategic management field relating to performance management . A valid drivers license. Knowledge of business management principles, Knowledge of strategic planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Principles and Systems, Financial Management, Report writing, Project Management, Risk Management, resource allocation and human resources. Knowledge of Public Service Act and Regulation; and Public Finance Act. A clear understanding of the departments role and policy with respect to water resource management. knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, and related policies, strategies, and guidelines. Problem solving and analysis. Good communication skills. People management and empowerment.

DUTIES: To manage the facilitation and reporting of programme performance and business planning. To provide inputs into strategic and business planning for the component. To coordinate and analyze the performance on the programme performed for the component. Conducting of regulation site visits, capturing, analyzing and reporting of monitoring data. Manage the relationship with other stakeholders on the regulation policies. Compile budget for the component in relation to programme performed in the component. Ensure the monitoring of compliance of water programmes with national regulatory framework. Conduct Compliance Audit to water use authorization conditions issued in terms of the NWA. Prepare compliance audit reports. Implement suspension and withdrawal of entitlement to water use authorisation issued in terms of the NWA. Conduct survey of all unlawful water uses in terms of the NWA in the Region. Conduct routine inspection to ascertain compliance and non compliance to NWA .

ENQUIRIES: Mr S Kheva Tel no: 013-759 7313

NB: Preference will be given to people with disabilities/ African Female, Indians, Coloureds, whites and followed by African Males

 

CONTROL ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICERS: GRADE A
(2 posts) COMPLIANCE MONITORING
R381 030.00 per annum
REF NO: 120316/07
CENTRE: Mbombela

REQUIREMENTS: Four-year degree or equivalent qualification in the Natural Sciences or Environmental Sciences. A valid driver’s license. Computer Literacy. Six years post qualification experience in the environmental and water management field, waste management, industries, urban development and mining. A clear understanding of the departments role and policy with respect to water resource management. knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, and related policies, strategies, and guidelines. Understanding the principles of Integrated Water Resource Management and Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement. Innovative thinking, negotiating and networking skills. Proven managerial and communication skills. Knowledge of Human Resource Policies. A clear understanding of transformation in the Public Service

DUTIES: Implement and enforce the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, National Environmental Management Act, and DWA policies and regulations. Assist in the development of policy and regulation. Conduct Compliance Audit to water use authorization conditions issued in terms of the NWA Prepare compliance audit reports. Implement suspension and withdrawal of entitlement to water use authorisation issued in terms of the NWA. Conduct survey of all unlawful water uses in terms of the NWA in the Region. Conduct routine inspection to ascertain compliance and non compliance to NWA . Conduct investigations where non compliance is suspected to verify available information and to gather admissible evidence in support of enforcement action. Prepare audit reports. Implement enforcement action in the form of formal or informal warning, administrative.

ENQUIRIES: Mr S Kheva Tel no: 013-759 7313

NB: Preference will be given to people with disabilities/ African Female, Indians, Coloureds, whites and followed by African Males

 

ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER GRADE A: COMPLIANCE
MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT (2 POSTS)
R207 888.00 per annum
REF NO: 120316/08
CENTRE: Mbombela

REQUIREMENTS:National Diploma in the Natural Science or Environmental Management qualification. A valid driver’s license. Computer literacy. At least two years experience in the environmental and water management field, waste management, industries, urban and mining would be an added advantage. A clear understanding of the department’s role and policy with respect water resource management. Knowledge of the National Water Act, 36 of 1998, and related policies, strategies and guidelines. Understanding the principles if Integrated Water Resource Management and Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Innovative thinking, negotiation and networking skills. Proven managerial and communication skills. Knowledge of Human resource Policies. A clear understanding of transformation in the Public Sector.

DUTIES: Implement and enforce the National Water Act (NWA), 36 of 1998, National Environmental Management Act and DWA Policies and regulations. Assist in the development of policy and regulations. Conduct compliance Audit to water use authorisation conditions issued in terms of the NWA. Compile compliance audit report. Implement suspension and withdrawal of entitlement to water use authorisation in terms of the NWA. Conduct survey of all unlawful water uses in the region. Conduct routine inspection to ascertain compliance and non- compliance to NWA. Conduct investigations where non- compliance is suspected to verify available information and to gather admissible evidence in support of enforcement action. Implement enforcement action in the form of formal or informal warning, administrative enforcement such as statutory notices, compliance notices and directives and court applications to enforce notices and directives, and criminal enforcement through criminal prosecution. water use efficiency through the issuance notices for unattended water leaks and unmetered raw water abstraction. Set a monitoring framework for compliance with International Agreements. Ensure co- operation and co-ordination between government institutions involved Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement.

ENQUIRIES: Ms N Noqayi, Tel no 013-759 7427

NB: Preference will be given to people with disabilities/ African Female, Indians, Coloureds, whites and followed by African Males

 

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
R361 659.00 Per annum
REF NO: 120316/09
CENTRE: Mbombela

REQUIREMENTS: National Diploma/Degree in Finance / Supply Chain Management. Three (3) to five (5) years working experience in the area of Supply Chain Management, Financial Management and Asset Management. A valid code B driver’s licence. Computer Literacy. Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations, Procurement Policies and Procedures, must be able to work on BAS, LOGIS and SAP systems. Management skills, knowledge of Ms Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Good communication skills, Good Presentation skills and Excellent Interpersonal relations..

DUTIES: Implementation of Supply Chain Management Policies and Procedures in the Department. Compilation of Monthly Supply Chain Management and Asset Management Reports. Management of Bids in the Province. Management of Provincial PSP’s and Contracts Administration. Management of the Human Resources in the Unit. Assessing the Performance of Officials in the unit (PMDS). Maintain the Suppliers Database. Provide Training to Officials on new developments. Identify and mitigate risks within the unit.

ENQUIRIES: Ms HA Nabuza, Tel no: 013-759 7633

NB: Preference will be given to people with disabilities/ African Female, Indians, Coloureds, whites and followed by African Males

 

DIRECTOR: RETAIL (MUNICIPAL) WATER PRICE REGULATION which was advertised with the closing date of 04 March 2016.

The correct REF NO: is 040316/15. The department wishes to apologise for the inconvenience caused.

 

CLOSING DATE: 12 MARCH 2016

APPLICATIONS: Please forward your applications quoting the relevant reference number for Centre:
Pretoria and Gauteng: Department of Water and Sanitation, Private Bag X 350 Pretoria 0001 or hand deliver at Continental Building, corner Cnr Visagie and Bosman, street, Pretoria. For attention: Ms C Mazibuko.

APPLICATIONS: Please forward your applications quoting the relevant reference number for Centre: Mbombela: The Acting Provincial Head, Department of Water and Sanitation, Private Bag X 11259, Mbombela. 1200 or hand delivered to the Department of Water and Sanitation and deposited into the application box at the reception ground floor, Prorom building, Corner Brown & Paul Kruger Street, Nelspruit. For attention: Mr AA Lessing

NOTE: Applications must be submitted on signed and dated form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department, and should be accompanied by a comprehensive CV as well as certified copies of qualifications and Identity Document. For all posts, please forward your application quoting the relevant reference number, to the address mentioned at each post. No late, faxed or e-mailed applications will be accepted. Note: If you have not heard from us within two (2) months of the closing date, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. Preference will be given to previously disadvantage groups. If no suitable candidates from the unrepresented groups can be recruited, candidates from the represented groups will be considered. Successful applicants will be required to undergo standard Government security clearance procedures and verification of qualification prior to permanent appointment. Should you be in a possession of a foreign qualification(s), it must be accompanied by an evaluation from South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). “All SMS shortlisted candidates will be subject to a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which will be communicated by the department. Following the interview and technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment (in compliance with the DPSA Directive on the implementation of competency based assessments). The competency assessment will be testing generic managerial competencies using the mandated DPSA SMS competency assessment tools” People with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply for the posts. PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ARE HIGHLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.

Written by Amukelani chauke

The National House of Traditional Leaders (NHTL) has embarked on a massive campaign to help communities affected by drought cope with water shortages.

The House’s executive committee members have also called on communities to pray and hold rain-making rituals in their respective areas as dam levels continue to drop in our water-scarce country.

In an interview with Vuk’uzenzele, Inkosi Sipho Mahlangu, the Deputy Chairperson of the NHTL, said after traditional leaders attended a Ministers and Members of Executive Council (MINMEC) meeting in November last year, they resolved to go back to their communities to play their role in mitigating the effects of the drought.

“We called on all executive committee members from the different provinces to come and deal with this issue of drought. One of the resolutions taken at that meeting was that we need to have prayer sessions.

“We need to call on people to come and pray for rain. We also agreed that people who have rain-making powers should conduct these rituals in different communities, which has been done.

“There are also other traditional leaders like Queen Modjadji who also have powers and who have been hard at work to make sure that we receive rain.”

He added that one of the interventions would be to encourage people to sell some of their livestock.

“They should focus on quality rather than quantity. We know most Africans believe that if they have many cows, it shows they have wealth. But you find that because of drought, those cows weigh as much as a goat.”

Inkosi Mahlangu said rural communities relied heavily on agriculture as a cornerstone of their economy. He said due to this, they were the most affected by the nationwide water shortages.

As water shortages gripped the country late last year, the Department of Water and Sanitation announced that it would deploy water tanks to affected communities and drill boreholes where possible.

At the time, the department was monitoring six provinces with regard water shortages, namely Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, North West, Free State and the Western Cape. Five provinces - Mpumalanga, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, North West and the Free State – have since been declared drought disaster areas. Some parts of the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and Western Cape are also severely affected.

“Drought affects mainly agriculture. People have not been able to plant and rural people usually don’t bank their money, they usually [invest their wealth through buying livestock] so now you have livestock that is dying because of drought. You have areas that are overgrazed and once there is overgrazing, there tends to be soil erosion,” he said.  

Inkosi Mahlangu added that communities have also experienced water shortages; people have been drinking with animals, but even those water sources are now becoming depleted.

He said food was becoming more expensive because most rural communities consume pap.

Amakhosi, Black Lawyers Association to work together on land claims

Meanwhile, Inkosi Mahlangu said all traditional leaders across all provinces where they are represented have agreed to a two-way approach to land claims.

This comes after President Jacob Zuma advised traditional leaders last year to work together to help communities with land claims instead of citizens focusing on their separate individual claims.

Addressing the NHTL last year, the President said Amakhosi would be doing a greater service to citizens if they assembled all claims, identified one legal team and a team of experts to research land that was dispossessed as far back as and before the 1913 land act was passed.

Inkosi Mahlangu said they had heeded the President’s call and had engaged the Black Lawyers Association to assist them with claims.

He said they had signed a memorandum of understanding with the attorneys and are currently ironing out the terms of reference on approaching land claims.

“The second part of our two-pronged approach is to have a land summit where all traditional leaders will be invited and we come up with one united strategy.

“We agreed that either we would put in a single claim or … look at different provinces putting in a claim each per province…”

About the NHTL

Seat of the House

The administrative head office of the NHTL is in Pretoria, where the head office of the Department of Traditional Affairs is located. Ordinary meetings/sittings are held in Parliament or the administrative seat. The executive committee of the House decides where special sittings/meetings are to be held, when and for what reason.

Presiding officers

The chairperson and the deputy chairperson of the NHTL are elected by the majority of members. The President of the Republic of South Africa or his/her delegate must preside over the election of the chairperson and deputy chairperson. 

Mandate of the House

The NHTL must fulfill the following:

The House must cooperate with Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders to:

•   Promote the role of traditional leadership within the Constitutional dispensation;
•   Nation building;
•   Peace, stability and cohesiveness of communities;
•   Preservation of the culture and traditions of communities;
•   Consider Parliamentary Bills referred to it by the secretary; and
•   Advise the national government and make recommendations on any matter that the government may require.

For more information visit:
ww.nhtl.gov.za

South Africa keeps moving forward – even in the face of the difficulties we are experiencing in our economy at home and internationally.

I recently delivered the State of the Nation Address on Thursday 11 February, in which I highlighted measures government has developed and is implementing to secure and to boost economic growth and create jobs. This at a time when many developed and developing countries around the world are battling.

In this edition of Vuk’uzenzele, some of the pages are dedicated to unpacking the State of the Nation Address. The articles demonstrate that government is delivering and that despite the bad global economic climate, the country is moving forward.  

The evidence you will see here is evidence that is deliberately ignored by those masters of the soundbyte – including leaders of political parties - who try constantly to suggest to the majority of South Africans that South Africa is on the verge of collapsing and that citizens have little or nothing to look forward to in their future. These doomsayers’ dire descriptions of and predictions about our country are presented as if they were gospel and these prophets of doom expect South Africans to blindly accept that what they’re saying is true.

As has been our tradition since 1994, the State of the Nation Address highlights the challenges and shortcomings in our society and economy but it also places the spotlight on the many actions and programmes unfolding in government and elsewhere to create the better life for all South Africans to which all of us aspire as patriots.

Immediately before the State of the Nation Address, government met the nation’s business leadership to discuss difficulties in our economy and to invite business to make suggestions that can help all of us move forward.

Government and business came together because of our shared understanding that – as I said in the State of the Nation Address – when the economy grows fast, it delivers jobs. Workers earn wages and businesses make profits. The tax base expands and allows government to increase the social wage and provide education health, social grants, housing and free basic services faster and in a lasting way.

This is how our economy works and this is how we have been able to make progress across a range of sectors in our society since the beginning of democracy in our country and even in the first 20 months of the current Administration. In 2016, we will press ahead with efforts to shield our country from the global economic storms and to reverse the legacy of apartheid that still affects us 26 years after Madiba raised his fist as a free man outside the then Victor Verster Prison in the Boland, Western Cape.

This year, we will be taking steps to fight racism; return land to South Africans who were estranged from the land under apartheid; support emerging black industrialists; invest in the education of our young people; make it easier for South Africans and international investors to contribute to our economy; make cheaper medical treatment available to South Africans through the recently established State-owned pharmaceutical company, and promote boost domestic and international tourism.

All these actions are designed to improve the quality of life in our country, improve South Africans’ ability to be productive participants in our economy and make the best of the goodwill and confidence that many partners and friends in other parts of the world have in our country.

One of the sad realities of our country today – and for a number of years now – has been that of foreign partners and investors demonstrating greater belief and confidence in our country than some of our own compatriots, who prefer to talk the country down and sow hopelessness instead of giving hope.

In industrial centres in the Eastern Cape and north of Pretoria, workers in the automotive sector will know how the confidence of foreign investors in South Africa creates opportunities for thousands of workers, their families and businesses in the areas concerned.

Government’s incentives for the automotive sector have attracted investments of over R25 billion over the last five years from global brands such as Mercedes, General Motors, Ford, Beijing Auto Works, the Metair group, BMW, Goodyear and VW.

These are highly successful global companies that understand the challenges and opportunities at play in many markets around the world. They read newspapers too. They follow political debates closely. They follow government policy even more closely, and engage with all political parties in the markets in which they operate.

In the case of South Africa, we can be proud that we feature positively in the investment decisions of such companies for whom the world is their oyster, but who continue to see great opportunity and value in basing their operations in our country.

As South Africans, we should make it our task to know our country better and appreciate the good that is constantly unfolding around us. We should be embarrassed when people and institutions thousands of kilometres from here display such faith in our country, while we tell a different story ourselves.

Our belief in our country and our active participation in making South Africa an even better place for all who live in it is a crucial part of moving South Africa forward, because our state of mind really determines the state of our nation. Given the challenges we face in 2016, this is a critical year for all us to help South Africa move forward even further and faster.