Feb 2016 2nd Edition

Feb 2016 2nd Edition Joy

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32m drought relief

32m drought relief andile
Written by Priscilla Khumalo
Government has pledged R32 million to help farmers affected by drought. The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has made available soft loans as emergency funding towards working capital, infrastructure and a small portion for carry-over debt for the commercial sector.

A soft loan is a loan with a below-market rate of interest. Giving an update on the status of drought relief support to the agricultural sector, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Senzeni Zokwana said the funding had already been approved.

“The IDC will consider financial assistance to its existing clients that apply for drought relief support while for non-IDC clients lending will not be made available directly to the end-beneficiary but rather through National Credit Act-compliant intermediaries like Land Bank and AgriBusiness,” Minister Zokwana explained. The Minister said that the loan agreement would be entered into by the IDC and the relevant intermediary.

“These intermediaries will have to apply to the IDC on a case-by-case basis and a due diligence will be applicable.”

Minister Zokwana said the department had given provinces 20 per cent - or R226 million in total - of the Letsema grant, initially aimed at boosting food security but which was not going to be used in the immediate future because of the ongoing drought.

Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Senzeni Zokwana has announced funding that will bring relief to farmers affected by the drought.

Provinces that have applied for and received approval include KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, North West, Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Northern Cape. The Eastern Cape has applied, while Western Cape has not yet reprioritised, the Minister said.

In Limpopo, an additional amount of R51 million has been set aside, with R20 million going towards the procurement of fodder to assist smallholder and subsistence farmers, while R31 million will be spent on water for livestock.

The Free State has allocated R10.692 million and R29 million from its Equitable Share and Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme budget to assist subsistence, smallholder and commercial farmers.

The Gauteng province has to date spent money on animal feed, water infrastructure, phosphate licks and de-silting of earth dams.

Funding has also been approved in the Northern Cape and has already assisted 257 farmers and helped in the distribution of 2 500 tons of fodder during October and November.

The North West has made available R25 million for drought relief. As at 18 January, 2016, 57 010 bags had been distributed and 10 228 farmers had received assistance.

An amount of R114 million was allocated in Mpumalanga for procurement of input supply for livestock, water harvesting, aggressive de-worming of livestock and borehole drilling, amongst others.

Meanwhile, Minister Zokwana met with MECs responsible for agriculture to take stock of the current drought and discuss the ongoing relief support provided to affected farmers and livestock owners.

Rural Development and Land Reform Minister Gugile Nkwinti also joined the meeting, which allowed principals to engage on plans and solutions they can employ from now on.

Minister Zokwana acknowledged that there was a clear picture of the negative impact of drought on crop production, livestock, agro-processing and agriculture infrastructure, as well as food security in all affected provinces.

He highlighted that the department’s priority was developing and implementing a climate change adaptation plan and programmes for the sector.

“We will give more support to Climate Smart Agriculture in terms of conservation agriculture,” he said.

General

All you need to know about special votes

All you need to know about special votes Joy

South Africans will have an opportunity to strengthen the country’s democracy by making their mark at the ballot box in the Local Government Elections later this year.

By casting their votes, South Africans elect leaders of their choice to help improve their quality of life. 

Citizens can check their voter registration status online, SMS their ID number to 32810 or make an appointment at a local IEC office.

Special votes

A special vote allows a registered voter, who can’t vote at their voting station on election day, to apply to vote on a predetermined day before election day.

Not everyone qualifies for a special vote. Those who wish to apply for a special vote must:
  • Be registered voters.
  • Have green, bar-coded ID books, smartcard IDs or a valid temporary identity certificates (apply at a Home Affairs office).
  • Meet the conditions for the specific type of election (see below).

Do I qualify for a special vote?

You can apply for a special vote if you:

  • Can’t travel to your voting station because you are physically unwell, disabled or pregnant or can’t vote at your voting station on election day.
When do I vote?

By law, special votes can only be cast on the date/s specified in the election timetable and no exceptions can be made.

Where do I vote?

  • If you can’t travel to the voting station where you are registered because you are physically unwell, disabled or pregnant, voting officials will visit you at the place where you’re living (must be within the voting district where you're registered) and allow you to vote.
  • If you can travel, but can’t vote at the voting station where you are registered on election day, you will vote at the voting station where you are registered on the date specified in the election timetable (usually a day or two before election day).
  • What happens when I cast a special vote?
     

If your application for a special vote is successful, you will vote as follows:

  • Your thumbnail is marked with indelible ink.
  • Your ID book is stamped.
  • You receive the relevant ballot paper(s).
  • You mark the ballot(s) in secret, place and seal the ballot(s) in an unmarked envelope.
  • The unmarked envelope is placed in another envelope that is marked with your name, ID number and voting district number. The use of two envelopes is to ensure the secrecy of your ballot (the outer envelope is discarded before counting).
  • IEC officials take the envelope and place it in a secure ballot box for special votes.
  • Your name is marked off the Voters’ Roll with “SV” to indicate that you have cast a special vote.

 

For more information call the IEC on: on 0800 11 8000 with your election queries. The contact centre is open Monday to Friday, from 7am to 9pm

*Source: www.elections.org.za

General

Better access to health for people with disabilities

Better access to health for people with disabilities Joy
Written by Thandeka Ngobese
The Department of Health in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has announced bold plans to train nurses, doctors and therapists in sign language. This is part of ensuring that people with disabilities have proper access to healthcare.

KZN Health MEC Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo (right) and HOD Dr Sifiso Mtshali (left) with the sign language poster that will be displayed at the entrances of all hospitals across the province.

Health MEC Sibongiseni Dhlomo told Vuk’uzenzele that people with disabilities should not have to compromise doctor-patient confidentiality by involving a third party to communicate their health needs with medical professionals.

MEC Dhlomo said the department already had 20 front line workers trained in basic sign language in five districts. These include media liaison officers, admitting clerks, porters and pharmacy assistants. 

“This is just the first phase of the training. We are still going to train our doctors, nurses, therapists and others within the next two years. We will soon be putting out a sign declaring our institutions as ‘Sign Language User Friendly’.

“Government’s vision of a long and healthy life for all includes people with disabilities. The reality of the matter is that people with disabilities have the same health needs as people without any disability,” said MEC Dhlomo.

He added that the mainstreaming of disability remains a huge challenge and disabled people are often marginalised, especially when it comes to finding jobs and accessing health services.

According to a Statistics South Africa report, the national disability prevalence rate is 7.5 per cent – this is based on Census 2011. KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which is the province with the second largest population in the country, has a disability prevalence of 8.4 per cent.

MEC Dhlomo also observed that in the past, specialised services such as rehabilitation programmes were available mostly in urban areas. This meant that disabled people had to spend a night on hospital benches before being transported to a hospital in urban areas to receive rehabilitation services.

“The same torturous exercise would play itself out when they have to sit and wait for the rest of the people before being transported back to a rural hospital for another wait on a hospital bench.”

The situation is changing for the better in the rural areas of KZN, thanks to the deployment of therapists. 

“Currently, we have 153 permanently employed therapists as well as 171 community services therapists spread across facilities doing community outreach programmes. We also have teams in place responsible for identifying and assessing people with disabilities. They are also instrumental in finding suitable assistive devices.

“The department has established the Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics Training Project in partnership with the Durban University of Technology to train students to do measurements for assistive devices and to manufacture these devices,” said MEC Dhlomo.

He said that due to an increase in complications of diseases, there is a higher demand for disability services. This adds to the health burden in the province due to complications caused by HIV and AIDS drugs (ARVs), TB drugs, the astonishing rise in non-communicable diseases, complications related to aging  as well as disabilities caused by motor vehicle accidents.

The MEC urged healthcare professionals and organisations representing people with disabilities to work together, reminding them to find ways to deal with barriers that limit participation for disabled people.

Health

Drive to fill vacant educator posts in EC

Drive to fill vacant educator posts in EC Joy
Written by More Matshediso
The Eastern Cape Education Department is inviting professionally qualified educators to apply for employment to fill the 1 665 level 1 vacant posts in its 23 districts.

The department said the invitation to apply for posts is a bid to address the educator shortage and fill substantive vacant posts in the province.Professionally qualified educators are invited to apply for posts in 23 districts in the Eastern Cape.

The invitation includes qualified educators who are employed by School Governing Bodies (SGBs) and private schools that have an interest in joining the public service.

The department said the placement process would be done in consultation with the various SGBs and the recognised trade unions that are participating in the Education Labour Relations Council in the province.

The process of appointment will be on a “first come first serve” basis, but subject to each person meeting the requirement of the available post.

The department said applicants may be required to undergo interview sessions in the selection process and their educational qualifications would be verified as required by the relevant legislation.

Applicants will be considered based on their personal profiles and the job profile of the available position.

Applicants are advised to attach a formal application for employment form - a Z83 form, and each person should provide no less than three options for placement when submitting their profiles.

Applicants must submit their profiles at the department’s head office in Zwelitsha.

These applications and personal profiles should be addressed to: Mr Nyameko Tshibo, the Director for Human Resource Planning and Provisioning Services at Department of Education (4th Floor, Steve Vukile Tshwete Building, Zone 6 Zwelitsha).

Faxed documents will be accepted too as long as they are submitted before the deadline.

The recruitment project is meant to last until the 31 March 2016.

 

For any enquiries call 040 608 4212.

Education

Government’s new retirement reforms

Government’s new retirement reforms andile
The new retirement reforms aim to help South Africans to protect their retirement savings. Here's more information:

Why did government pursue these reforms in the first place?

The reforms seek to protect retirees from old age poverty by encouraging them to save for retirement. They also seek to simplify the current system and make products more transparent.
What are the changes that will come into effect on 1 March 2016?

The Taxation Laws Amendment Act of 2013 and 2015 will  come into effect on 1 March 2016. These laws allow members of retirement funds to reduce the tax they pay by being able to deduct contributions into retirement funds up to 27.5 per cent (up to a maximum of R350 000) per annum, as a percentage of their income. The new laws also increase the amount required for annuitisation at retirement from R75 000 to R247 500 (called “de minimis”).  

What is the problem with the current system which the law is trying to fix?

Currently, different types of retirement funds provide different tax benefits. For example, retirement annuities allow a tax deduction benefit only up to 15 per cent, provident funds up to 20 per cent, and pension funds up to 27.5 per cent. Secondly, provident fund members don’t get a tax deduction for their own contributions, while pension fund members do. Pension and retirement annuities require a portion (i.e. 2/3rd) of the benefit to be paid as a regular income, while provident funds allow a retiree to take the entire benefit as a cash lump sum when they retire.

How will the new law harmonise this difference in tax treatment and benefits?

The main changes will apply to provident funds. Provident fund members will now receive one-third (1/3rd) of their retirement benefit as a lump sum at retirement and the remaining two-thirds (2/3rd) has to be annuitised. For example, if the entire retirement benefit amounts to R300 000, an amount of R100 000 (i.e. 1/3) may be taken as a lump sum and R200 000 (i.e. 2/3) would have to be annuitised. This change will ONLY apply to contributions that are made after 1 March 2016. Provident funds members will also get a tax deduction for their contributions.

What does annuitisation mean?

Annuitisation means taking a portion of your retirement benefit in small monthly payments, rather than getting it all as one cash lump sum.

What will be the new treatment of provident funds in terms of tax?

Members of provident funds will now be able to claim a tax deduction on their contributions to their funds for the first time. Secondly, the contributions their employers make to their provident funds will become visible on their payslips.  Thirdly, many fund members who make contributions to their provident funds will see their take-home pay increase slightly. Fourthly, all new contributions (and growth on them) into provident funds after 1 March 2016 by those younger than 55 years will be subject to the annuitisation requirement once the value is over R247 500 (i.e. the de minimis threshold). All provident fund members will still be able to take all their retirement savings, and growth on them, that would have been accumulated up to 1 March 2016, as a cash lump sum when they go into retirement.

At what age will I be affected by the law?

Members of provident funds who are 55 years old on 1 March 2016 will NOT be affected by the new laws if they elect not to change funds. Only contributions after 1 March 2016 (i.e. new contributions) made by provident fund members who are BELOW 55 years old on 1 March 2016, and only if these new contributions are above R247 500, will be affected.

How does this new law apply to those that change jobs?

The new law does NOT apply if you change jobs. Members of a provident or/and pension fund will still be able to change jobs and withdraw all their retirement money.  Although government encourages people preserve their savings rather than cash out every time they change jobs.

How will the new law apply to the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF)?

The GEPF will not be affected by these reforms as they already pay a gratuity (lump sum cash) and a pension (annuity) for members with more than 10 years of service. But in terms of tax, GEPF members will be subject to the same tax deductibility limits on retirement contributions contained in the above tax legislation.

Why is Government telling us how to access our retirement money?

The law is about helping people to be better prepared for the future by saving for retirement and receiving income in smaller regular amounts when in retirement. This regular income protects retirees from quickly spending the entire money and having to excessively rely on relatives and government. Research shows that less than 10 per cent of working South Africans are able to retire comfortably and maintain a decent standard of living in retirement.

For more information visit:
www.treasury.gov.za

General

Jobs: Department of Transport Feb '16

Jobs: Department of Transport Feb '16 lebang
Director: Supply Chain Management
Reference: DOT/01/2016/ 1, Centre Pretoria

Branch: Administration: Office of the Chief Financial Officer

Chief Directorate: Financial Administration and Supply Chain Management

Directorate: Supply Chain Management

Package: All-inclusive salary package R 864,177 per annum of which 30% can be structured according to individual needs.

Requirements: A three year Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management / Logistics or Purchasing at NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA. A postgraduate degree will serve as a strong recommendation. The incumbent must have at least five (5) years’ experience at middle management level or at senior management level in the Supply Chain Management environment.

Note: The following will serve as strong recommendation: In depth knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations, Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act (PPPFA) and Supply Chain Management prescripts is essential. The applicant must be computer literate with advanced skills in spreadsheets. Furthermore, he / she and must have analytical, problem-solving, communication (verbal and written), interpersonal, organisational, leadership, supervisory, people and financial management skills.

Duties:  The incumbent will be required to develop and maintain (periodic reviews) supply chain management related policies, procedures and delegations, such as the Supply Chain Management policy, Asset Management policy, Inventory policy, Disposal strategy, Supply Chain Management frameworks, Demand Management strategy and Procurement delegations, and oversee and ensure the implementation of the policies, procedures and delegations.  Annually develop and implement a Sourcing strategy and a Procurement Plan and maintain a record of bids awarded against the Procurement Plan.

Manage and oversee three Sub-Directorates that are responsible for demand, acquisition, logistics, disposal and contract management. Manage the bidding and acquisitioning processes; oversee the checking of bid specifications, invitation of bids, participation in bid evaluation committees and the awarding of bids. Manage the Logis section, the Logis commitments register on Logis and oversee payments to suppliers.

Oversee receipt of requests for quotations, the invitation, evaluation and award of quotations and the maintenance of the supplier’s database / utilisation of the central supplier’s database. Manage the   acquisition, movement and disposal of assets, the physical verification of assets and reconcile the asset register to transactions on the Basic Accounting System (BAS).

Oversee the management and reporting on contracts and the implementation of the contract management system.

Ensure that all the required reports are submitted to the National Treasury on a monthly basis. Serve as a member of the Loss Control Committee and the Disposal Committee and shall be an advisor to the Bid Adjudication Committee.

Assess staff capacity and ability to effectively perform their functions, compile performance agreements and provide guidance and support through training courses where necessary in consultation with the Human Resource Development unit. Ensure that monitoring and evaluation is carried out throughout the Directorate.

Manage the in-house training of Chief User Clerks in the Department. Prepare and submit reviews of strategic plans and annual performance plans in line with the Branch strategic plan and annual performance plan.

Prepare and submit quarterly and annual reports on the performance of the Directorate.

Enquiries: Mr D. Pretorius Tel: 012 309 3649

Note: All shortlisted candidates for the above post will be subjected to undertake a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which will be communicated to the candidates prior to the interviews. Recommended candidates will be required to attend a generic managerial competency assessment. The competency assessment will be testing generic managerial competencies using the mandated DPSA SMS competency assessment tools.

Director: Master Planning Implementation and Review
Reference: DOT/01/2016/ 2) Centre: Pretoria

Branch: Integrated Transport Planning

Chief Directorate: Macro Sector Planning

Directorate: Master Planning Implementation and Review

Package: All-inclusive salary package R 864,177 per annum of which 30% can be structured according to individual needs.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Transport Planning/ Town and Regional Planning/ Transport Economics at NQF level 7 as recognised by SAQA. A minimum of six (6) years relevant experience in multi-modal transportation systems planning of which five (5) years’ must be at middle management level or at senior management level.

Note: The following will serve as strong recommendation: Experience in the planning of the built environment. Knowledge of travel forecasting models and methods. Knowledge of programme/project selection and prioritization procedures. In depth knowledge of government policies, policy development and analytical skills. Research and report writing skills and Project Management processes.

Duties: The successful incumbent will be responsible for the following: Facilitate a sustainable planning approach to the provision of transport infrastructure through a medium to long term outlook. Institutionalise a systematically structured transport planning procedure and oversee its applications. Oversee the implementation of appropriate travel and forecasting methods. Integrate transport demand drivers (land use, demographics, economic trends) into transportation systems planning processes. Manage and oversee a dynamic and up to date national transport master plan. Facilitate the development of provincial transport master plan. Develop and manage the appropriate planning tools/instruments for decision making. Ensure the development and maintenance of an investment decision making criterion comprising of appropriate programmes/project selection and prioritisation strategies. Manage or participate in ad-hoc teams where special projects of national importance have been prioritised. Lead the realisation of the Directorate’s strategic objectives. Integrate relevant stakeholder’s policies with transportation systems planning. Assume responsibility for delegation of work. Manage the planning, organising and delegation of work within the Directorate. Practice ethical corporate governance financial management in accordance with the Public Financial Management Act prescripts.

Enquiries: Mr M Makhari Tel: 012 309 3320

Note: All shortlisted candidates for the above post will be subjected to undertake a technical exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which will be communicated to the candidates prior to the interviews. Recommended candidates will be required to attend a generic managerial competency assessment. The competency assessment will be testing generic managerial competencies using the mandated DPSA SMS competency assessment tools.

 

The following positions were advertised in the Department of Public Service and Administration – Public Service Circulars no 02/2016, 03/2016 and 04/2016 and the closing dates for these posts have been extended to 29 February 2016 and candidates who have already applied don’t need to reapply again as their applications will be considered. (www.dpsa.gov.za

Circular 02/2016

  • Office Administration Grade III (Various Posts Ref: DOT/01/2016/2
  • Office Administration Grade II (Various Posts) Ref: DOT/01/2016/3
  • Office Administration Grade I (Various Posts) Ref: DOT/01/2016/4

Circular 03/2016

  • Assistant Director: Human Resource Planning and Strategy

Circular 4/2016

  • Assistant Director: Forensic Investigations ( Ref: DOT: 01/2016/06)
  • Assistant Director: Rail Policy and Strategy Development (Ref: DOT: 01/2016/07
  • Administrative Assistant: (Ref: DOT: 01/2016/08)

 

The following position was advertised in the Department of Public Service and Administration Public Service Circulars no 05/2016:

  • Senior IT Technologist (Cape Town Ref No: DOT: 02/2016/01)

Applications:  Department of Transport, Private Bag X193, Pretoria, 0001 of hand deliver at the Forum Building, Cnr Struben and Bosman Street, Pretoria for attention Recruitment Unit.  Room 4034. Employees are reminded to quote the relevant reference numbers/post number when applying for these posts.

Closing date: 29 February 2016

Note: Applications must be accompanied by form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department, (or obtainable atwww.gov.za) and a recent updated comprehensive CV (previous experience must be comprehensively detailed, i.e. positions held and dates), as well as certified copies of all qualifications and ID document. Failure to submit the requested documents/information will result in your application not being considered. It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). The Department reserves the right not to fill the posts. The successful candidates must be willing to sign an oath of secrecy with the Department. Applicants will be expected to be available for selection interviews and assessments at a time, date and place as determined by the Department. All appointments are subject to the verification of educational qualifications, previous experience, citizenship, reference checks and security vetting. Please note: Correspondence will only be entered into with short-listed candidates.

 

Jobs / Vacancies

Jobs: The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

Jobs: The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development lebang

Applications: Tel: 012 315 1111 Private Bag X81, Pretoria, 0001 Momentum Centre, 329 Pretorius Street, Pretoria

Closing date: 22 February 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, 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).

The successful 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 targert.

Director: Programme Management Support and Donor Funds Reference: 6/13/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) as recognised by SAQA; At least 6 – 10 years’ experience of which 6 years must be at middle/senior management level; Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries:
Mr. MC Kekana
Tel: 012 357 8023

Deputy Director: President's Fund Reference: 6/02/CFO

Package: R569 538 – R670 890 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Management or equivalent qualification; A minimum of 5 years relevant experience in a financial environment, of which a minimum of 3 years must be at management level; A sound knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA); Treasury Regulation (TR) and Basic Accounting System (BAS) and relevant prescripts; Knowledge of General Recognized Accounting Procedures (GRAP); Knowledge of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and its Crime Asset Recovery Account (CARA) functions and services; Knowledge of Softline Pastel Accounting software will be an added advantage; Experience in working on the BAS System; A valid driver’s licence

Enquiries:
Ms. E. Zeekoei
Tel: 012 315 1436

Cluster Manager (4 Posts) Re-advertisement)

Reference: 16/15/FS; Centre: Magistrate Offices, Bethlehem, Welkom and Kroonstad

Reference: 16/VA13/NW; Centre: Klerksdorp, Sub Cluster

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:

Bloemfontein: Ms NM Dywili

Tel: 051 407 1800

Mafikeng: Mr. B Sibiya

Tel: 018 397 7061

Assistant Director: Security and Risk Management Reference: 034/15/NC   

 This is a Re-advertisement, candidates who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply)

Salary: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum.

The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: Bachelors Degree/National Diploma in Public Administration or equivalent relevant qualification; PSIRA Grade B; At least 3 years supervisory experience in security management; NIA Security Managers’ Course will be an added advantage; Knowledge of PFMA and OHSA Act will be an added advantage. Thorough knowledge of the MISS 1998; Control of Access to Public premises and Vehicle Act, 1985 (Act No.53 of 1985); A valid driver’s licence

Mr. D. Plaatjies
Tel: 053 802 1300

Erratum

Director: Human Resource Management Reference: 225/15/WC; Centre: Regional Office, Cape Town

Kindly note that the above-mentioned post was advertised (dated 24 January 2016) with an incorrect Salary Package.

The correct Salary Package is as follows;

  • Package: R 864 177 – R 1 017 972 per annum (All Inclusive
  • Please note: the closing date for the erratum is 22 February 2016

Enquiries:
Advocate H Mohamed
Tel: 021 462 5471

We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Jobs / Vacancies

Let’s roll up our sleeves and move the country forward

Let’s roll up our sleeves and move the country forward andile
Two of the most important days on our nation’s annual events calendar aren’t public holidays, and it’s absolutely correct that they’re not.

Each February, South Africans from all walks of life share the tradition of focusing their attention on the State of the Nation Address, in which the President of the Republic addresses the nation on the country’s achievements in a given period and outlines government’s plans for the year ahead.

Soon after the State of the Nation Address, the Minister of Finance presents the annual Budget which in recent years has amounted to R1 trillion which government collects from South African individuals and businesses in the form of taxes to address the country’s development.

These two events are not government occasions, but national occurrences, because while our elected government has clear responsibilities and is accountable to the nation, the State of the Nation Address and the Budget invite all South Africans to work together to make our country succeed even more than we have in 22 years of freedom and democracy.

The State of the Nation Address and the Budget tell us how government will go about realising the vision for a future South Africa outlined in the Manifesto of the ruling party and endorsed by close to two-thirds of voters countrywide in the 2014 election.

Despite the negative global economic climate South Africa continues to attract investment.

The blueprint for a better South Africa is not a roadmap that is locked up in a vault in the Union Buildings for reference or use only by national government. The blueprint for a better South Africa is our National Development Plan, to which all sectors of South Africans contributed. The State of the Nation Address is therefore shaped by the will and wishes of ordinary South Africans and organised sectors of our country.

Our ability to implement government’s Programme of Action is tempered by the national Budget which tells us exactly how much is available to the public sector to undertake the development to which we have committed ourselves. The 2016 State of the Nation Address and Budget are surrounded and influenced by challenges we face in the domestic and global economy.

Times are tough, but we are also tough in our resolve to move South Africa forward. Our plans for the year ahead draw inspiration from the progress we have achieved in recent years and months when conditions were already difficult in the global economy. Government is doing all it can to promote entrepreneurship and make it attractive and profitable for South Africans to start businesses, invest in our own economy and create jobs for South Africans in whose education we are investing at record levels since the dawn of democracy.

While the investment climate globally is a minefield, South Africa continues to attract top-end investors who view our skills, factory infrastructure, port facilities and other assets as productive and profitable. In the auto sector alone, BMW recently committed to invest R6 billion in manufacturing the X3 range in its Rosslyn plant north of Pretoria. Similarly, tyre manufacturer Goodyear is looking to invest R670 million in South Africa, and Volkswagen a significant R4.5 billion.

Unilever has invested R4 billion in new plants and expansions across the country. Firms such as Nestlé, Samsung, Hisense have also affirmed South Africa as a regional manufacturing hub and have retained and expanded their investments in new plants. Government’s Clothing and Textiles Competitiveness Programme (CTCP) has yielded results. Between the start of the programme in 2010 and March 2015, over R3 billion was approved to support investment in the sector. As a result 68 000 jobs were retained in the sector, 6 900 new jobs were created and 22 new factories in the leather and footwear sector opened.

In the leather and footwear segment, the dti is partnering with the private sector to establish a National Footwear and Leather Cluster. The work of the cluster has already been directly responsible for the creation of approximately 2 000 sustainable jobs and a reduction of R1.4 billion in the sectoral trade deficit. Following the adoption of a Public- Private-Partnership (PPP) model for port infrastructure development by Transnet National Ports Authority, R7 billion has been committed and already 200 jobs have been created in new port facilities and refurbishment and maintenance of existing ones over the last 12 months.

South Africa's vehicle manufacturing industry is doing well and is creating much needed job opportunities.

Already, investment in manufacturing includes the unlocking of R1.25 billion in investment contracts over the next five years in respect of the building of catamarans in the port of Port Elizabeth, which in turn will create potential 500 job opportunities. Behind these numbers are stories of ordinary South Africans whose great work is producing these successes for the companies where they are employed, and stories of families whose standard and security of living has dramatically improved.

When times are tough, it is often difficult to focus on the progress we are making. However, as South Africans we have no reason to be hopeless. We need to look our challenges in the eye, identify the opportunities around us, roll up our sleeves and do the hard work that is needed to move our country forward.

The State of the Nation is not the state of government; it is the state of the nation. It is up to us to improve this state with our every thought and action. That work starts today and will never end. Let all of us play our part.
 

General

Mangaung Metro driving development

Mangaung Metro driving development Joy
Written by Noluthando Mkhize
Delivering basic services to its citizens is a top priority for Mangaung Metro. The city, which is the only metropolitan municipality in the Free State, is made up of three main areas: Thaba Nchu, Botshabelo and Bloemfontein.

Mangaung Mayor Thabo Manyoni said it has been the municipality’s priority to drive development and ensure that basic services are modernised and upgraded on a regular basis.

DECENT HOMES FOR ALL

Since 2011, the municipality has provided housing to more than 69 000 people in more than 23 000 units. 

A further 144 126 people representing more than 48 000 families are now holders of site permits and title deeds, which is another achievement by the municipality.

“The city has further provided over 16 000 families with access to own their sites through the formalisation of 19 informal settlements to date.

“An additional 595 social housing units accommodating 1 785 people will be completed by the end of the 2015/16 financial year.

“Construction has started on community residential units in Dark City and Silver City, and 800 units providing shelter for 2 400 beneficiaries will be completed by May 2016.”

A CITY OF POTENTIAL INVESTORSBrandwag Social Housing will provide additional social housing opportunities to our communities and ensure closer proximity to work opportunities and other amenities to families of participants.

 Mayor Manyoni added that the metro is being repositioned to attract potential investors to help with development projects taking place in the city. 

The city has also made major investments in developing the land around the airport. This has been termed the Airport Development Node and aims to ignite development in the corridor.

“This is our biggest project and we started by providing necessary infrastructure, such as the Naval Hill reservoir and the North Eastern Waste Water Treatment Plant.

We currently have close to 250 new residential houses that have come up as a result of the N8 development around the airport, and a hospital is under construction.”

He added that the development of the Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu economic nodes are the city’s most important projects as they aim to address the wrongs of apartheid by bringing development and economic opportunities closer to the people.

“The city, working with provincial government, will invest about R40 million towards the development of the nodes. These will include the development of vibrant rural enterprises, the provision of mixed development initiatives, commercial facilities and recreational and social amenities.

“The nodes will attract other investment to the region which will also address unemployment in the two areas.”

OTHER LAND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS:
  • Township establishment for Brandkop 702 – one of the land parcels for mixed housing development in the city, estimated to cost R16 million.

  • Township establishment for Cecilia Park – one of the land parcels for mixed housing development in the city, at a cost of R20 million.

  • Development of the Airport Development Node, a R97 million project.

  • Development of a Long Haul Service Centre, a R35 million project.

“The development of these nodes is not only intended to ease an over-reliance on Bloemfontein as a commercial centre but also to bring renewal, development and economic opportunities to other regions of the municipality.”

He added that the city will also invest
R19.95 million in hawker stalls in the inner cities of Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu. 

GOOD FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Mayor Manyoni said when he took office in 2011, the municipality’s finances were not in good order.

“We can safely report that currently our cash and equivalents stand at R1.1 billion as compared to R246.4 million in 2011. This reflects growth of R855.8 million, which is three times more than previous cash balances.

“Key to our performance as a city has been our ability over the past few financial years to have stabilised the financial position of the metro,” he said.

The city has improved its audit opinion from a financial disclaimer and achieved an unqualified audit report for the 2013/14 financial year from Auditor-General Kimi Makwetu.

ACCESS TO WATER

Since 2011, the Mangaung Metro has provided about 219 000 households with basic water supply.

“Approximately 159 000 households have been provided with a basic level of potable water above RDP standards. In addition, about 40 000 registered indigent households are provided with 10 kilolitres of free basic water.

“In response to the current challenges facing the city with regard to inadequate bulk water storage, the city has designed a special programme aimed at increasing the capacity of its reservoirs and extending bulk water main lines to reach new areas.”

The project is expected to help unlock land developments such as the Airport corridor development, Cecilia Park and Vista Park.

“We have committed to eradicating sanitation backlogs within six years and, in support of this, are committed to building seven new reservoirs.

“Of these, two have already been completed at 45ML Longridge and 35ML Naval Hill respectively. Capacity at the Sterkwater Waste Water Treatment Works has been doubled from 10-million litres to 20-million litres.

“The expanded capacity will accommodate new development in the city, such as Hillside View Development, Vista Park, Lourier Park and Rocklands.”

DEVELOPING THE CITY'S YOUTH

The city recently launched a youth economic development programme in partnership with ABSA. The programme, which has an initial intake of 3 000, aims to provide the unemployed youth with on-the-job training and development.

“The focus of the programme will be on roads infrastructure maintenance, paving, electrical works, as well as information and communications technology.

“Over R40 million was set aside for the programme for the 2014-15 financial year.”

 

Rural development

Mobile labs to boost maths, science in rural schools

Mobile labs to boost maths, science in rural schools Joy
Written by Lunga Ngqengelele
A computer-based curricula project is expected to boost mathematics and science education in the rural uMkhanyakude District in KwaZulu-Natal.

The initiative, led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has seen four mobile labs – each with 40 computers – donated to non-government organisation Mpilonhle, to assist 29 schools in the uMkhanyakude District.

Mpilonhle is dedicated to identifying and implementing innovative solutions to the health and social problems faced by young people in the country, especially among impoverished youth living in rural areas.

The mobile labs will also see teachers in the district receiving training in teaching computer-based curricula. This is expected to improve mathematics and science skills in a district where performance in these subjects has traditionally been poor.

In the 2014 Annual National Assessment, Grade 6 learners in the uMkhanyakude District achieved an average of 40.1 per cent in Mathematics. Grade 9 learners only achieved an average of 9.2 per cent in Mathematics versus 10.8 per cent for the nation as a whole.

The majority of schools in the region lack computer labs for learners. For this reason, the area was earmarked to benefit from the Mpilonhle computer-based learning initiative.

Enoch Buthelezi, the principal of Madwaleni High School, one of the benefiting schools, said: “The school appreciates the DST's support of this project, as science and technology innovations can help South Africa to tackle poverty, create sustainable jobs and enhance the delivery of basic services.”

Speaking at the handover of the project at Madwaleni High School, Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor said information and communication technology (ICT) was crucial to delivering skills to learners and benefiting marginalised communities.

“ICT can make a difference in the learning and teaching of Mathematics and Science, and we know that these subjects provide learners with a gateway to wide-ranging career options,” she said.

The Minister added that the roll-out of broadband was one of government’s focus areas to ignite economic growth and create jobs, citing as examples the ICT Research, Development and Innovation Implementation Roadmap and the large-scale initiative implemented by the DST in the Eastern Cape to test how ICT can improve education in rural areas.

Minister Pandor also interacted with the community to raise awareness of the impact of science and technology on society, as well as other matters related to government services.

On the sidelines, the public were given an opportunity to experience for themselves how exciting science can be, with shows and demonstrations.

 

* Lunga Ngqengelele works for the Department of Science and Technology.

Education

More relief for farmers

More relief for farmers Joy
Written by Albert Pule
Since the start of the drought that is gripping the country, the three spheres of government have been working together to give support to farmers in regions that have been declared disaster areas.

Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and KwaZulu-Natal are the provinces hardest hit by the drought.Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senzeni Zokwana has outlined plans to support farmers.

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Senzeni Zokwana said all three spheres of government would continue to work together to help farmers.

“Government departments, municipalities and entities are working together to provide livestock feed, deliver rainwater tanks and cart water to farmers and livestock owners to help their livestock during this time of scarcity of grazing grass and water for hydration,” he said.

Minister Zokwana added that government would work closely with the farming sector.

“As government we will continue to beef-up collaboration by strengthening co-ordination arrangements between government and other role players to monitor the drought.”

In the drought-stricken provinces, provincial departments have allocated resources to help farmers. In Mpumalanga, the department has identified land for the relocation of livestock.

“In this case, three farms have been identified at Chief Albert Luthuli and Thaba Chweu local municipalities for communal grazing.”

The department has also set aside
R421 869.83 for the drilling and equipping of boreholes in three districts and contractors have been appointed and are on-site.

KwaZulu-Natal

In KwaZulu-Natal, R14.2 million has been committed for the planting of fodder as a medium-term intervention. Contractors have been appointed and are on-site.

A feedlot at Umzinyathi District has been identified. It is centrally located, making it possible to serve sections of KwaZulu-Natal, Amajuba and uThukela. Contractors have been appointed to upgrade the feedlot and are on-site. Just over R15 million has been allocated for the upgrade.

North West

In North West, 70 boreholes are being drilled and equipped in three district municipalities that have been declared drought emergency areas, at a cost of R10.8 million. Contractors have been appointed and are on-site.

Free State

In the Free State, fire breaks have been created and a contractor is on-site creating 92km of fire breaks by grading on 10 land reform farms, at a cost of R220 000.

An amount of R2.3 million has been committed for the drilling and equipping of boreholes and work is under way.

Limpopo

In Limpopo, R1.3 million has been approved for drilling and equipping of boreholes in Mopani, Vhembe and Waterberg, and animal feed has been delivered to all three of these areas as well, at a cost of R129 500.

Minister Zokwana said that government was planning to establish a National Information Management System and ensure that information flows from other provinces. He added that in the coming months, the country would likely face a shortage of food because there was little planting due to the current drought.

“Food security will be heavily affected by drought because we will not harvest the yield we expected owing to the current drought. In some places, no planting was done while some will have very low yields.”

Rural development

Moving eThekwini Municipality forward

Moving eThekwini Municipality forward Joy
Written by *Gugu Sisilana
In 2030, Durban will be Africa’s most caring and liveable city. This is the long-term vision of eThekwini Municipality.

“The municipality has been transforming people’s lives for the better since the first democratic elections in South Africa in 1994.

“In 2015, Durban was named the top South African city with the highest quality of life in the international Mercer survey. This proves that the city has one of Africa’s best service delivery programmes and continues to make a positive impact in the lives of its 3.4 million residents,” said eThekwini Mayor James Nxumalo.

Over the past 20 years, eThekwini has built over 200 000 houses for some 500 000 poor and unemployed citizens.

BUILDING DECENT HOMES

The R25 billion mixed-use human settlements project called Cornubia will accommodate more residents who still require affordable housing. The project will include the provision of 28 000 homes catering for a wide range of income levels. A total of 15 000 of these will be subsidised or low-income houses. The project, which is located close to economic opportunities, also promotes the integration of different communities across all race groups.

SERVICE DELIVERY ACHIEVEMENTS
  • The municipality supplies electricity to over 730 000 customers covering over
  • 2 000 square kilometres. The electrical network has been upgraded to cater for growth and new connections, which includes the comprehensive electrification of informal settlements within the city, totalling 13 342 over the years.
  • eThekwini provides 9 kilolitres of water free of charge to households with property values under R250 000.
  • The city operates and maintains 336 soccer fields, 163 community halls, 141 parks, 65 cemeteries, 95 libraries, 9 museums and 52 swimming pools.
  • The city’s Zibambele Poverty Alleviation programme has created about 6 000 jobs.  
  • eThekwini is investing in flagship projects that will create more than 680 000 permanent jobs in the long-term.
  • The municipality treats more than 491 000 kilolitres of sewage daily, ensuring healthy communities throughout the city.
  • Durban’s Integrated Rapid Public Transport Network, Go!Durban, will connect 600 000 commuters across the city.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES

The municipality has established the Youth Development Office as part of the Mayoral programme to ensure that young people participate in the mainstream economy. 

This office will enable the formulation of youth development policies to serve as council guidelines during the co-ordination and implementation of youth development programmes and provide a wide range of services, opportunities and support to young people.

In line with national government’s youth development plans, the municipality has prioritised youth and skills development by allocating a budget of R65.8 million towards youth development initiatives for the 2015/16 financial year.

SUPPORT FOR YOUNG BUSINESS OWNERS
  • Over the years, the municipality has supported young and emerging local fashion designers. Close to 100 designers have been taught on business and technical skills, and offered the opportunity to engage with industry experts while 34 have been sent on an international fashion internship programme in Milan, Italy. This programme has started to bear fruits as some designers are running successful businesses.
  • The municipality has also invested more than R77 million towards the Durban Business Fair over the past 15 years. This initiative has proved to be a great success and small companies mainly headed by the youth have excelled. Some of these companies have achieved a turnover of more than R50 million and have created over 2 000 sustainable jobs.
  • Key youth development programmes which were launched by the municipality in June 2014 include the Student Financial Aid Fund which offers bursaries to learners who come from disadvantaged backgrounds to ensure that they have access to education.
  • The Mayoral Cup, aimed at encouraging young people to be actively involved in arts, culture, sports, recreation and heritage to create a socially cohesive society, was unveiled last year.
eTHEKWINI READY FOR 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

eThekwini will be the first African city to host the Commonwealth Games to be held in 2022 following an announcement in September last year.

More than 80 per cent of the facilities for the games already exist. The municipality is well on track with preparations to host this major sporting event.

 “We will be hosting these games on behalf of the African continent which is about one billion people. It is history in the making as these games will be coming to the African continent for the first time,” said Nxumalo.

“The games will be used to promote social cohesion and build our nation. Hosting the games will give our young people an opportunity to showcase their talent on the world stage in 2022. We want them to be the champions of tomorrow,” he added.

 

*  Gugu Sisilana works for the eThekwini Municipality.

Rural development

New XDR-TB unit for Nkqubela TB Hospital

New XDR-TB unit for Nkqubela TB Hospital Joy
Written by Nombulelo Bonga
Nkqubela Tuberculosis Hospital in the Eastern Cape has opened a new extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) unit that will accommodate 60 more patients suffering from the illness.

MEC for Health Dr Pumza Dyantyi (far right) inspecting the new XDR ward at Nkqubela TB hospital in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape.

The hospital is situated in Mdantsane near East London.

The unit, which was opened recently, is expected to ease pressure on Fort Grey Hospital as it is the only hospital that currently caters for patients with the XDR-TB.

Ludwe Ngwevela, a cured TB patient, said that when he was first told that he had TB he was in denial and refused treatment.

“I was more worried about what my peers would think of me, especially when I had to be admitted to the Nkqubela TB hospital,” said Ngwevela.

“After research and advice from the relevant people, I eventually came to my senses and realised that being diagnosed with TB is not the end of the world. I also realised that TB is curable if I take my treatment regularly,” added Ngwevela.

Eastern Cape MEC for Health Dr Pumza Dyantyi said she was pleased about the new unit, especially given the fact that TB and HIV and AIDS are often interlinked.

“As a society, we are ignorant with regard to TB and because of that, TB is likely to continue spreading,” she cautioned.

MEC Dyantyi, who was speaking during the opening of the unit, informed those in attendance that government had set a target of testing 1.3 million citizens for TB and HIV by September 2016.

MEC Dyantyi added that farm and mine workers and those from informal settlements were the priority groups targeted by government.

“TB is dangerous and contagious; it has killed a lot of people throughout South Africa but the good news is it is completely curable.

“The plan is to test the patient immediately and if he or she is TB positive, introduce treatment as soon as possible,” said MEC Dyantyi.

Last year, the national Department of Health launched its largest TB screening programme, targeting correctional centres, the six mining districts, schools, creches and the community at large.

At the time, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi indicated that TB kills 80 per cent of HIV-positive people.

The roll-out of the massive TB screening programme was similar to the HIV counselling and testing campaign rolled out in 2010, which resulted in 20 million people being tested.

Nkqubela TB Hospital has been active for 50 years and MEC Dyantyi applauded the hospital for its good work.

 

*  Nombulelo Bonga works for the Eastern Cape Department of Health.

Health

New early childhood development centre for Ntunda

New early childhood development centre for Ntunda lebang
Written by Zithini Dlamini
After years of using a run-down building as an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre known as Tfutfukani Educare Centre, the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, through the branch Rural Infrastructure Development, intervened and built a modern structure in Ntunda village in Mpumalanga.

“Since 1997, when the centre was established by members of the Ntunda Trust as an initiative to fight the challenge of neglected and unsupervised children, a number of attempts have been made to have a permanent place,” said the centre Manager Mrs Rose Phelembe.

A fully-functional centre was built and completed in June 2015. The centre aims to provide day-care facilities, physical care, improve language stimulation, social and emotional care for the children of Ntunda village.

The centre was officially opened by Rural Development and Land Reform Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini and the MEC for Social Development Nomsa Mtsweni on National Children’s Day.

“The aim of the National Children’s Day celebration was to highlight the progress being made towards the realisation and promotion of rights of children. This structure is a perfect symbolism of this,” said the MEC.

In her address Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini made a plea to local residents to treat the newly built ECD centre well.

Nkomazi Local Municipality’s Mayor Thuli Khoza assured residents about government’s commitment to bring necessary development to local municipalities.

A representative from Chief Shongwe traditional leadership said the area qualifies to be classified as an urban area, because of the development that is taking place.

“We have street lights, which is uncommon in rural villages,” he said.

“We plead with political leaders and government departments to hasten and build a community hall,  since this is the only structure outstanding to make the community whole,” he added.

Education

New houses bring dignity

New houses bring dignity Joy
Written by Albert Pule
Whenever rain clouds gathered over the Marikana sky during the rainy season, Katiso Emmanuel Makhabane would get anxious. Makhabane and his neighbours would wonder if their shacks would survive the downpours.

“One day it rained so much that my shack was flooded and all my things got wet. There was water all over the place. It was bad,” he said.The new houses in Marikana West will not only restore dignity but will also bring development to the area.

Those days are over for Makhabane thanks to a partnership between the Department of Human Settlements and Lonmin Plc.

Through the partnership, Makhabane is now the proud owner of a newly-built four-room house in Marikana West, just outside Rustenburg. He has access to running water, electricity and feels safe.

For over 13 years, Makhabane lived in a shack in an informal settlement called Marasmus in the North West, without electricity, proper sanitation and decent shelter.

“That place is not good for anyone. There are no proper roads, no electricity, no water and we did not feel safe.”

The four-room house is made up of a kitchen, dining room, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

A few metres away from Makhabane’s house, another former resident of Marasmus, Senzelinceba Grigana enjoys a chat with his new neighbour.

Grigana (44) has also gone from an informal settlement dweller to being a homeowner. He said he feels like a normal human being again.

“At times, I felt like I was not a normal person staying in that shack; that place is not good for people to live in,” said Grigana.

“Moving from that place to this place has made a difference in my life. I feel safe and I can sleep peacefully knowing that I won’t be attacked by thugs at night,” he said with a smile on his face.

DECENT HOMES

The 50-hectare piece of land was donated by Lonmin Plc in October 2013 and will have 2 600 mixed development units.

The units are spread among the four housing programmes, namely Breaking New Ground (BNG), Community Residential Units (CRUs), Social Housing and Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme.

The first phase of construction is expected to produce 292 BNG units and 252 CRUs.

The new CRUs are expected to be allocated to other residents of Marikana, including 33-year-old Lesego Molemane who is currently staying in a rented backroom with her husband and daughter, and is one of the people who will soon be allocated new houses.

“I’m looking forward to staying in my own place and not paying rent. I can’t wait to move into my new home,” she said.

Rural development

Protect your retirement savings

Protect your retirement savings andile
Written by Albert Pule
Government has introduced a law that aims to encourage South Africans to save and plan better for their retirement. In December last year, President Jacob Zuma signed into law the Taxation Laws Amendment Act of 2015 to assist households and ensure that they are not vulnerable to poverty, especially during retirement.  

The new law is not aimed at preventing public servants from accessing their pension monies when retiring or resigning. According to a circular from both National Treasury and the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), the reforms coming into effect next month (March) seek to make provident funds similar to pension and retirement annuity funds.     

Retirement Fund Director at National Treasury Alvina Thela said there had been a misunderstanding about the intention of the new law and as a result people were leaving their jobs out of fear that they would lose their money. “Don't resign because of false rumours. If you resign you will lose a lot of your retirement benefit because the benefit will be taxed heavily. This means that after the tax is paid you will be left with much less money.

“If your savings stay in your fund, your money will grow bigger and you will pay very little tax on your money when you retire. There will be a lot more money by the time you retire.”

Benefits of the new law

Thela said that the Taxation Laws Amendment Act had a number of benefits and would help people save money for retirement. “One of the advantages is that as a provident fund member, you won’t be taxed when you put money into a provident fund when you are saving for retirement.

“This is likely to increase your take home pay, so you’ll have money that goes into your provident fund that is not taxed meaning that your taxable income will be less and your net pay will be more.” The other benefit, said Thela, is that “you are encouraged to save because now you are able to contribute without being taxed and you will be able to save more for retirement and that will protect you from poverty at old age and protect you from relying on the state or your family members to take care of you”.

Different types of retirement funds

Contributions towards retirement can be done in three different ways namely: by making a contribution towards a pension fund, retirement annuity fund and/or a provident fund. A pension fund is similar to a retirement annuity fund in that when you contribute to those two funds, you get a tax deduction.

A tax deduction means that the money that goes into that fund is not taxed and this is different from a provident fund. A member that contributes to a provident fund gets taxed when the money goes into that fund. The other difference is at retirement and when you exit these three products. When you exit from a pension fund or retirement annuity fund, you get a third as a lump sum and the remaining two thirds are paid as an annuity.

A provident fund is treated differently. When you exit from a provident fund, you get a cash lump sum and your entire savings are given to you at one go. Thela has also encouraged people who want to resign and cash in on their retirement to get proper financial advice before taking their savings.

“Protect your retirement savings. Your retirement is your future income. Seek financial advice and protect and preserve your money when you change jobs or resign.”

General

R40 million project benefits thousands of households

R40 million project benefits thousands of households lebang
Written by Thandeka Ngobese
The days when Nonhlawulo Mkhungu (20) of Emakhabeleni had to study using candlelight are over. The KZN provincial government is making progress in ensuring that rural and previously-disadvantaged communities, like the one Mkungu lives in, have access to electricity through the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP).

KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu and MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Nomusa Dube-Ncube show Nozibulo Ntshangase how to load money on her electricity meter.KZN Premier Senzo Mchunu accompanied by MECs for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) Nomusa Dube-Ncube and Sport and Recreation Ntombikayise Sibhidla-Sephetha launched a large-scale electrification project at eMakhabeleni in Umvoti.

The R40 million project, which will electrify 2 400 local households, has 12 000 beneficiaries.

The CRDP aims to tackle, among other things, underdevelopment, food security, unemployment, poverty and other social ills that have become synonymous with rural areas.

Nozibulo Ntshangase (72), a beneficiary of the project, could not contain her excitement. 

“Government has done a great job in providing us with electricity, toilets and water. We are now waiting for RDP houses. Once we get them, that will be enough,” she said.

In his address to the people who gathered at the Vukaphansi Sports Field at eMakhabeleni the Premier encouraged residents to ensure that they protect the new public infrastructure from cable theft.

“This electricity is provided for you so look after it. By March 2016 you will all have electricity so do not do illegal connections.  Electricity is very dangerous if it is connected illegally, so you must wait for your turn to be connected,” Premier Mchunu said.

In her address MEC Dube-Ncube encouraged residents to ensure that they use electricity wisely. “We came here because we promised as government to ensure that all our residents get electricity. We are keeping our part of the deal, but you as residents have to keep yours by ensuring that you pay for the electricity we provide,” said MEC Dube-Ncube

Rural development

SAPS goes "Back to Basics" to fight crime

SAPS goes "Back to Basics" to fight crime lebang
Written by Edwin Tshivhidzo
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is stepping up efforts to fight crime and transform the police service.

The South African Police Service is serious about fighting crime and ensuring that all South Africans are safe.This year SAPS will apply the Back to Basics approach to policing in a bid to ensure that all people in the country are safe.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane said having looked at past and recent performance of the SAPS, police management are in agreement that urgent, focused action is needed to turn the SAPS’ performance around to ensure that it is an organisation every South African can be proud of.

“The majority of the deficiencies and challenges identified relate to the tried and tested, fundamental principles of policing, which have been neglected for a long period of time.

“This analysis has necessitated the introduction of a Back to Basics approach to policing, which focuses on every police officer doing the basics of policing and on doing these basics properly and consistently,” Phahlane said. 

He said the Back to Basics approach would focus on a few key areas of organisational concern. These include: 

  • Discipline and the manner in which police officers conduct themselves as a distinctive characteristic of policing.
  • Enhanced police visibility, which implies more police officers in uniform. This is aimed at decreasing opportunities to commit crime.
  • Targeted, informed deployment of operational resources to ensure that the police use their limited resources optimally.

Phahlane explained that these plans were not only focused on ensuring the improvement of performance and the achievement of annual targets, but were also driving the Back to Basics approach.

Regarding the incidences of police killings, Phahlane said an attack on a police officer was an attack on the democratic dispensation.

“Such anarchy should be cut short and not allowed to spread so as to endanger citizens of this country,” he said.

The murder of police officers can be minimised by obeying basic policing practices, which talk to the operational readiness of police officers, he said.

“The message to police officers is not ambiguous. When they are under attack in the course of executing their mandate, it is expected that they function within the parameters of the laws of the country.  

“They will apply proportional force to make irrelevant the perception that the police are brutal,” he said.

Phahlane emphasised that the Back to Basics approach requires that the public play a central role in changing the outlook of the police.

“This will ensure that we have a police service that is responsive to the safety and security needs of society, a police service that is known to be upholding a high standard of conduct and that is in line with the constitutional imperative that is described in its mandate,” he said.

Safety and Security

Safety for court witnesses

Safety for court witnesses lebang
Written by Noluthando Mkhize
Often people witness a crime but are too afraid to approach the police with the information, fearing that their lives would be in danger.

People who witness a crime do not need to fear for their lives as they can be protected through the National Prosecuting Authority's witness protection programme.With the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) witness protection programme, people will be able to help the authorities crack down on criminal activity and feel safe too.

“Our main aim is to ensure that witnesses are safe. If you are afraid for your safety because you are a witness, you can apply for witness protection. If you have given evidence in the past, you are still considered a witness,” said Darius Lin*, the head of the Witness Protection Unit within the NPA.

A witness is a person who will be giving evidence in court or making an affidavit, may have to give evidence in the future or who has given evidence in the past.

Who can apply for witness protection?

The Witness Protection Act establishes the structures, rules and procedures for the protection of people who have to testify in court.

 It also sets out the duties and responsibilities of all the people involved in making sure that witnesses are safe.

Lin explained that a member of the victim’s household, a family member or in fact anyone close to the victim, can apply for protection on behalf of a witness.

Lin said witnesses sign a protection agreement, which is an agreement entered into between the Director of Public Prosecutions and the witness and provides the duties and responsibilities of the parties to the agreement.

The agreement also includes the responsibility of the witness to behave appropriately and not to get involved in any criminal activity.

Lin also said witness protection would remain in place until the Director is of the opinion that the witness’s safety is no longer in question.

However, if the witness fails to comply with the terms of the protection agreement or fails to enter a protection agreement, they would be discharged from witness protection.

If the actions of the witness place other protected persons in danger or if the witness seriously damages the place of safety, they would also be discharged.

Lin said all members of his office take an oath of confidentiality and the Act states that no person can disclose any information obtained while fulfilling his or her duties under the Act.

“There are exceptions to this rule, for example, if witnesses give their consent or if it is in the public interest. Nonetheless, when making the disclosure, factors such as the safety of the witness and the reasons for the disclosure must be considered.

“Every witness is treated the same, they are protected seven days a week and 24 hours a day and information that is obtained within witness protection is confidential.”

 

There are nine regional offices of the Witness Protection Unit, one in each of the provinces. If you have any queries that you want to direct to the Witness Protection Unit itself, you should contact the Head Office on 012 845 6000.

 

*  Name changed for security reasons.

Safety and Security

Timber entrepreneur harvests a thriving business

Timber entrepreneur harvests a thriving business Joy
Written by Thandeka Ngobese
Mhlonipheni Zulu, a former timber harvesting foreman, always knew that he would have his own business one day.

In 1999, Zulu, who had valuable work experience in the industry and was inspired by the black economic empowerment (BEE) opportunities that arose in the sector during this time, decided to start his own harvesting business.

He registered his business under the name Siyawisa Hlathi CC and based it in Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal. At first, Zulu was subcontracted to his previous employer to do timber harvesting.

In 2005, a real opportunity arose when Siyawisa Hlathi was awarded a three-year timber harvesting contract by SiyaQhubeka Forests, a BEE company with Mondi shareholding which operates 25 000 hectares of prime commercial forestry land in KwaZulu-Natal. While this was good for the company, Zulu had no capital to do the job. He then decided to go to Ithala Development Finance Corporation Limited to ask for assistance. Ithala gave him R9 000 to buy equipment.

“Although the money from Ithala helped, I had to add to it by selling my cows to buy other things that were needed by the business,” he added.

Zulu said a second contract followed in 2008 for the harvesting and short hauling of 60 000 tons per annum. In 2011, another contract was awarded to harvest and haul timber at the SiyaQhubeka plantations in the Dukuduku and Nyalazi areas of Mtubatuba. 

The owners of Siyawisa Hlathi CC, Mhlonipheni and Nkosingiphile Zulu, at one of their work sites in Mtubatuba.“The previous contracts were predominantly manual harvesting but the new contract demanded more than my semi-mechanised capabilities offered. Mondi and SiyaQhubeka took a decision to introduce 100 per cent mechanised timber harvesting systems in their plantations to improve safety in the timber industry, increase productivity and enhance opportunities for workers to become skilled operators.

“I went back to Ithala for assistance. As a long-standing client of Ithala with a good track record, the company assisted with a loan of R7 million to purchase equipment to replace my semi-mechanical system,” he said.

Zulu had 300 workers while the business was doing manual harvesting. But with the introduction of machines, he has 40 permanent workers.

He is now working with his wife Nkosingiphile, a former teacher, who manages the office administration while Zulu is responsible for the overall management of operations.

“To work with my wife helps a lot because she is always there for the business,” he said.

Nombuso Biyela (37), a female machine operator at Siyawisa Hlathi, said she enjoys her work because it helps her to provide for her family.

“Our employer is a very humble and understanding person who cares for the wellbeing of his workers. When we are here, we do not feel that we are at work. This place is more like home,” she said.

Zulu’s advice to aspiring business people is to work hard.

“Be hands-on in your business. Starting a business is like raising a baby; it needs you all the time. Do not use money intended for the business for your personal needs. Business money is for business and your salary is for your needs,” he said.

Rural development

Youngsters make SA proud

Youngsters make SA proud Joy
Written by Noluthando Mkhize
A group of South African learners has made the country proud by winning an international competition.Clara-Marie Macheke and Claire Rankin two of the team of eight that won the International Schools Moot Court competition.

The eight youngsters from across the country proudly represented South Africa at the 2016 International Schools Moot Court competition at The Hague, in the Netherlands. 

This is the first time that a team  from South Africa has won this competition. In 2014 the country came second.

The team comprised learners Mandisa Xaba, Nthabiseng Mbatha, Simon Motsheweni, Paseka Selinyane, Claire Rankin, Clara-Marie Macheke, Katelyn Chettle, Shandre Smith and Katelyn Chetty, representing schools ranging from rural schools to former Model C schools. 

Mandisa Xaba, who hails from Sakhelwe High School in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, said not only did she learn more about international law and constitutional law but the competition also helped her to improve her public speaking skills.

“I am happy to have represented my country and came back with the international status,” said Xaba.

The team comprised learners who had made it to the finals of the South African Schools Moot Court Competition, which was held recently.

The competition is held at the Constitutional Court of South Africa and presided over by Constitutional judges.

The Schools Moot Court Competition is implemented in partnership with the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the University of Pretoria led by Prof Haynes, and funded by the Foundation for Human Rights.

Independent law firms, non-governmental organisations and the University of Venda also support the competition.

This year’s topic tackled the issue of crimes against humanity during the time of war.

Xaba said this topic opened her mind and she learnt that as a citizen of South Africa she needs to ensure that there is peace at all times.

“Should a war start in another country, we as South Africans should not assist in the war in any way. This could lead us to be in trouble with the International Criminal Court,” said Xaba.

The 12 countries that participated in the competition were Argentina, Bulgaria, Germany, Mongolia, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, St Martens, the USA, Venezuela and South Africa.

Contestants were given an opportunity to argue both as defender and complainant using international criminal law and treaties that are relevant to the International Criminal Court. 

Xaba added that she was positioned as the prosecutor and thoroughly enjoyed it.

In the last leg of the competition team South Africa competed against team USA.

Mbatha said when she first saw who they were up against in the final she felt a little intimidated but was relieved when they were announced as the winners.

“With the exposure I received from being part of the International School Moot Competition, I am even more sure that after completing matric I will pursue a career in law,” said Mbatha. 

The competition is presided over by the judges of the International Criminal Court.

This year Judge Howard Morrison and Judge Raul Pangalangan presided over the competition

Education

Jobs: Justice and Constitutional Development - Feb '16

Jobs: Justice and Constitutional Development - Feb '16 Estelle Greeff
Director: Programme Management Support and Donor Funds
Reference: 6/13/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) as recognised by SAQA; At least 6 – 10 years’ experience of which 6 years must be at middle/senior management level; Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and National Treasury Regulations; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Mr. MC Kekana Tel: 012 357 8023

 

Deputy Director: President's Fund
Reference: 6/02/CFO

Package: R569 538 – R670 890 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Management or equivalent qualification; A minimum of 5 years relevant experience in a financial environment, of which a minimum of 3 years must be at management level; A sound knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA); Treasury Regulation (TR) and Basic Accounting System (BAS) and relevant prescripts; Knowledge of General Recognized Accounting Procedures (GRAP); Knowledge of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and its Crime Asset Recovery Account (CARA) functions and services; Knowledge of Softline Pastel Accounting software will be an added advantage; Experience in working on the BAS System; A valid driver’s licence

Enquiries: Ms. E. Zeekoei Tel: 012 315 1436

 

Cluster Manager (4 Posts) Re-advertisement)
Reference:
16/15/FS; Centre: Magistrate Offices, Bethlehem, Welkom and Kroonstad
Reference: 16/VA13/NW; Centre: Klerksdorp, Sub Cluster

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: Bloemfontein: Ms NM Dywili Tel: 051 407 1800; Mafikeng: Mr. B Sibiya Tel: 018 397 7061

 

Assistant Director: Security and Risk Management
Reference:
034/15/NC   

This is a Re-advertisement, candidates who previously applied are encouraged to re-apply)

Salary: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum.
The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: Bachelors Degree/National Diploma in Public Administration or equivalent relevant qualification; PSIRA Grade B; At least 3 years supervisory experience in security management; NIA Security Managers’ Course will be an added advantage; Knowledge of PFMA and OHSA Act will be an added advantage. Thorough knowledge of the MISS 1998; Control of Access to Public premises and Vehicle Act, 1985 (Act No.53 of 1985); A valid driver’s licence

Enquiries: Mr. D. Plaatjies Tel: 053 802 1300

 

Erratum
Director: Human Resource Management
Reference: 225/15/WC; Centre: Regional Office, Cape Town

Kindly note that the above-mentioned post was advertised (dated 24 January 2016) with an incorrect Salary Package.

The correct Salary Package is as follows;

  • Package: R 864 177 – R 1 017 972 per annum (All Inclusive
  • Please note: the closing date for the erratum is 22 February 2016

Enquiries: Advocate H Mohamed Tel: 021 462 5471

We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Closing date: 22 February 2016

AREA COURT MANAGER (DEPUTY DIRECTOR)
REFERENCE: 24/15/WC

PACKAGE: R569 538 - R670 890 per annum (All inclusive).
The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: A three year Bachelor Degree in Administration (NQF Level 6) and/or National Diploma in Service Management (NQF Level 5) plus module on Case Flow Management or equivalent qualification; Six (6) years relevant experience of which three (3) years should be at management level; A valid driver’s licence; Knowledge and experience of financial management, PFMA, office and district administration will serve as strong recommendations.

ENQUIRIES: Mr H Mzaca Tel: (021) 462 5471

DEPUTY DIRECTOR: SECURITY SERVICES MANAGEMENT
REFERENCE: 2016/07/GP

PACKAGE: R569 538 - R670 890 per annum (All inclusive).
The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: An appropriate recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in security or public disciplines; Three years management experience in security management; A valid drivers licence; The successful candidate must have completed the following courses: Security Administration Official or Security Management Course; Risk Management; Intensive Fire Prevention (Fire Regulations); Communication Security (Cryptography); Extensive experience in security relating to Physical, Personnel, Document, Communications and IT aspects as well as a broad knowledge of investigations; Knowledge of Budget planning control; Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act.

ENQUIRIES: Ms. D Mngomezulu (011) 332 9000

CLUSTER MANAGER: COURT INTERPRETING (02 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 02/16/LMP.

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. H Mzaca Tel. (021) 462 5471

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR – HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (2 POSTS) (EDIT)
REFERENCE: 23/16/WC

SALARY: R289 761 - R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: A three year tertiary qualification in Public Management/ Human Resource Management (NQF 6) or equivalent qualification with 3 years relevant  supervisory experience; Knowledge of Public Service Act of 103 of 1994, Public Service Regulation; Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) and an In depth knowledge of Human Resource Legislation and prescripts; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. H Mzaca Tel. (021) 462 5471

FINANCIAL OPERATIONAL MANAGER
REFERENCE: 27/16/WC

SALARY: R289 761 - R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: A Bachelor’s Degree in Finance or Commercial field or equivalent qualification; Three (3) years in Expenditure and Budget Management; A valid driver’s licence; the following will serve as an added advantage: Knowledge and experience of the financial systems of the Department of Justice including the JYP system.

ENQUIRIES: Mr R Myburg at Tel: (023) 342 2325

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
REFERENCE: 16/16/MAS

SALARY: R289 761 - R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: 3 years Bachelor’s Degree/ National Diploma or equivalent qualification in Finance; 3 years relevant experience in Finance environment; Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations, Departmental Financial Instructions (DFI), Public Service Act and other relevant legislation; Knowledge/ experience in government or recognized Accounting software will be an added advantage.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. S. Maeko Tel: (012) 315 1996

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: GENDER AND THE LAW
REFERENCE: 16/21/DG

SALARY: R289 761 – R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: LLB, B. Proc or equivalent legal qualification; A minimum of 3 years experience in management of gender research and related matters; Knowledge of South African legislative process and gender equality related legislation; Experience in writing and publication of articles will serve as an added advantage.

ENQUIRIES: Mr. C. Sibiya Tel (012) 315 1351

IT CO-ORDINATOR
REFERENCE: 01/16/LMP

SALARY: R289 761 - R341 313 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

REQUIREMENTS: Tertiary qualification: IT National Diploma / Degree (NQF 6) coupled with minimum of 3 years relevant IT experience with training/project management modules; 2 years experience in rendering an IT related LAN Support service; Experience in network administration, help – desk first line support; Knowledge of government prescripts, regulations and laws; Knowledge of the development of user training manuals, guidelines and procedures and drafting of budget; Evaluation of End – User training; Knowledge of IT in Public Sector; Project Management, Change Management and LAN Support; One year experience in End User training; 1 year experience in Project Management; One year experience in systems management; A valid driver’s licence.

ENQUIRIES: Mr Maakamedi TP: (015) 287 2026 or Ms Mongalo MP: (015) 287 2082

FAMILY COUNSELLOR SUPERVISOR (GRADE 1)
REFERENCE: 26/16/FA/WC

SALARY: R295 635 – R 342 720 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination)

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor Degree in Social Work or equivalent qualification which allows for professional registration with the SACSSP; seven (7) years appropriate experience in social work after registration as a Social Worker with the SACSSP; Social work supervisor experience will be an added advantage; Knowledge and experience in Mediation and the principles and practices of Social work profession; Court experience in Evidence; Knowledge and application of Family Law, including Mediation in certain Divorce Matters Act, Maintenance Act and Domestic Violence Act; Children’s Act (inclusive of Hague Convention on International Child Abduction); A valid drivers’ licence.

ENQUIRIES: Ms L Baartman at Tel: (021) 426 1216 Adv. J Gerber at Tel: (044) 802 4200

ASSISTANT MASTER, MR3 - MR5
REFERENCE: 16/17/MAS

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.S. Maeko Tel: (012) 315 1996

ESTATE CONTROLLER EC1 (05 POSTS)
REFERENCE: 16/18/MAS: CAPE TOWN
REFERENCE: 16/19/MAS: BLOEMFONTEIN

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. S. Maeko: (012) 315 1996 & Mr C. Msiza: (012) 315 4754

CLOSING DATE IS 29 FEBRUARY 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.

Tel: 012 315 1111 Private Bag X81, Pretoria, 0001 Momentum Centre, 329 Pretorius Street, Pretoria, www.justice.gov.za Twitter  Facebook
Jobs / Vacancies

Parliamentary office for Malamulele

Parliamentary office for Malamulele Estelle Greeff
Written by Ntambeleni Gabara
Residents of Malamulele will now have an opportunity to become active citizens and take part in parliamentary activities.

A new Parliamentary office has opened in Malamulele, Limpopo, that will give residents access to information on government programmes.This as parliament has opened a Parliamentary Constituency Office in Malamulele, Limpopo.

The Parliamentary Constituency Office serves as the centre of information on parliament and government programmes. It will also be a link to government so there can be direct contact and communication.

Speaking during the official opening, Communications Minister Faith Muthambi urged residents of Malamulele in Limpopo to refrain from engaging in protests that result in the destruction of property.

“I urge the community of Malamulele to use the Parliamentary Constituency Office to report service delivery challenges and avoid destructive protests.

“As we will be servicing all people, irrespective of their political affiliation, we believe that our people will begin to realise that there are productive ways of responding and expressing their frustrations.

“In a democratic environment, it is only peaceful and non-violent protests that will drive change in the area,” she said.

Violent protests erupted in the area last year with residents demanding their own municipality, claiming that the Thulamela municipality was not prioritising them in service delivery. Four schools were set alight during the protests.

Hosi Busa Nxumalo, a senior traditional leader in Malamulele and chairperson of the House of Traditional Leaders in Vhembe, said the parliamentary office would bring people together to deal with their concerns.

“As traditional leaders, we are going to support this office all the way. We have already signed a memorandum of understanding with the Minister that we are going to work together.

“To us this office is a bridge between government and the people, where residents will be able to air their views and challenges.”

General

National Budget Speech 2016

National Budget Speech 2016 Estelle Greeff
In February each year, the Minister of Finance announces government's spending, tax and borrowing plans for the year ahead. This is called the national budget speech. In the speech, the Minister provides information on how government will raise money and how it will be spent. The national budget divides money between national departments, provinces and municipalities.

Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan will present the National Budget to Parliament on 24 February 2016. Tune into your favourite television or radio station to hear how government plans to allocate money to improve our lives.

Follow the speech on the day on Twitter on @BUDGET2016

General

Know your Minister - Minister Angie Motshekga and Minister Blade Nzimande

Know your Minister - Minister Angie Motshekga and Minister Blade Nzimande Estelle Greeff
Ms Angelina Angie Matsie Motshekga has been the Minister of Basic Education since 11 May 2009 and was reappointed to this portfolio on 26 May 2014.
About the department

The Department of Basic Education is responsible for overseeing primary and secondary education in South Africa. The Department of Basic Education (DBE) was formed when the then National Department of Education was split into two: DBE and the Department of Higher Education and Training.

About the minister

Minister Motshekga holds a Master’s degree from the University of Witswatersrand (Wits), a Bachelor of Educational Science degree from the Wits a Bachelor of Arts in Education degree from the University of the North and a Higher Diploma in Education.

She was an educator at Orlando High School from 1981 to 1983, lecturer at the Soweto College of Education from 1983 to 1985 and lecturer at Wits from 1985 to 1994.

 

Dr. Blade Emmanuel Nzimande is the Minister of Higher Education and Training appointed by President Jacob Zuma in 2009, and again in 2014. He is the first Minister of Higher Education and Training.
About the department

He is responsible for leading the Department of Higher Education and Training. The department is responsible for developing and managing a fully inclusive post-school system that allows South Africans to access post-school education and training.

About the Minister

Minister Nzimande was born on 14 April 1958 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Prior to his current position Dr. Nzimande was a Member of Parliament and the first Chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Education between 1994 and 1999.

Dr. Nzimande matriculated in 1975 from Georgetown High School in Edendale, Pietermaritzburg. In 1976 he enrolled at the University of Zululand to study towards a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Public Administration and Psychology.

Between 1989 and 1994 he held the position of Director: Education Policy Unit at the University of Natal.

Among his qualifications, he holds a PhD in Industrial and Labour Studies (1993) - from the University of Natal (now University of KwaZulu-Natal), MA in Industrial Psychology (1982) - from the University of Natal and a BA (Hons) Industrial Psychology (1981) - University of Natal.

General

Second chance for matriculants

Second chance for matriculants Estelle Greeff
Written by Albert Pule

If you failed matric in 2015, you have a chance to re-write your matric examinations and get better results.

The Department of Basic Education says learners can re-write matric under a new initiative called the Second Chance Programme.

The aim of the programme is to offer young people who have failed to meet the requirements of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) a second chance to obtain a matric, thereby improving their quality of life.

According to the department, the programme will be piloted this year and registration for participation will only be open to learners that attempted the NSC examinations in 2015.

Candidates who did not meet the NSC requirements post-2008 (excluding the 2015 candidates) will only be able to participate in the programme in 2017.

The department said the programme is expected to provide support to learners who wrote the 2015 matric examinations and qualified to write one or two subjects in the supplementary examinations in February and March 2016.

Progressed learners (those who failed Grade 11 more than once but were still promoted to Grade 12) who were not successful in the 2015 matric exams will, under the Second Chance Programme, sit the exams again in June 2016.

Learners who write supplementary examinations in February/March 2016 but do not do well in these will also qualify to sit for the exams again in 2016.

Learners that write the supplementary examinations in February/March 2016 but who do not do well will also be eligible.

Second chance registration

Registration is done at district offices.

Supplementary exam candidates: Learners must register for the programme when they register to write the supplementary examinations.

Progressed learners: Registration for progressed learners will start in March 2016 (for the June examinations).

For more information on the programme, visit this website http://www.education.gov.za/Programmes/SecondChanceProgramme /tabid/932/Default.aspx. Call the Department of Basic Education on 0800 202 933 or 012 357 3000.
Education

Team South Africa stands tall in Davos

Team South Africa stands tall in Davos Estelle Greeff
Written by *Kingsley Makhubela

International relations

President Jacob Zuma recently led a team of Ministers, Chairmen and CEOs of major companies at the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting held in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.

The WEF is an annual meeting that brings together world leaders from business, government, international organisations, academia and civil society in Davos to discuss the global economy.

The theme for WEF 2016 was “Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution” and the theme of Team South Africa (TSA) was that South Africa is open for business.

Coming within the context of projected lowered global economic growth, and falling oil and commodity prices, this gathering of international opinion makers and thought leaders presented an opportunity to look at global responses and best practice to a range of pressing social, developmental and economic issues. 

South Africa is not insulated from this global economic environment and although we have the most diversified economy in Africa, with a strong macro-economic policy and fiscal environment, falling commodity prices, amongst others, present a challenge to our economic growth forecasts.

Our most important message in Davos to international business and investors was: South Africa is open for business in this environment and that they can be assured of our commitment to policy certainty and consistency.

What we experienced was that investors and leaders of global business continue to be positive about South Africa in particular and Africa as a whole, contrary to the sentiment we have seen expressed domestically about all affairs economic.

Investors and global business leaders also appreciated South Africa’s frankness and openness in explaining some of the challenges we were are dealing with in terms of our economic growth.

Despite these challenges, South Africa continues to attract foreign direct investment. This week, the ICICI Bank of India announced it would set up an office in South Africa. This affirms our position that we are a preferred investment destination even in these global conditions.

We also took the opportunity to reiterate to delegates at Davos that the National Development Plan and the Nine-point Plan for economic recovery, underscored by Operation Phakisa, remains our programme of action.  This communicated an awareness on our part that we could not continue with business as usual.  The challenging and uncertain global economic conditions necessitate an innovative approach to ensuring that we remain globally competitive in the face of turbulence.  A message can only go that far to build confidence.  We must now pull together in our various sectors to ensure we implement these programmes.

In a highly uncertain economic climate, we have as Team South Africa once again demonstrated that uniquely South African quality of being able to stand together in the face of adversity because apart from our sectoral interests, our country is most important. This is the spirit that will see us transcend almost unprecedented global uncertainty.

* Mr Kingsley Makhubela is the CEO of Brand South Africa.

General

SA re-elected to AU Peace and Security Council

SA re-elected to AU Peace and Security Council Estelle Greeff
Written by Bathandwa Mbola

International relations

South Africa has been re-elected to the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC).

The PSC was established as the standing decision-making organ of the African Union for the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts. It is composed of 15 countries, of which five are elected to three-year terms, and 10 to two-year terms.

South Africa was re-elected at the 28th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council, which was held at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, ahead of the AU Summit recently.

President Jacob Zuma welcomed the re-election before recommitting to continue working with the other members of the PSC and the rest of the AU membership in pursuit of peace and stability on the African continent.

"The maintenance of peace and stability in Africa is key to realising the vision as contained in Agenda 2063 of a peaceful and secure Africa that is strong, united and an influential global player and partner,” said President Zuma.

Some of the PSC's core functions include conducting early warning and preventive diplomacy, facilitating peace-making and recommending intervention in Member States to promote peace, security and stability.

The PSC also works in support of peace-building and post-conflict reconstruction as well as humanitarian action and disaster management.

General

SA receives ALMA Award for malaria efforts

SA receives ALMA Award for malaria efforts Estelle Greeff
Priscilla Khumalo

International relations

South Africa has been awarded the 2016 African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) Award for Achieving the Malaria Millennium Development Goal (MDG) target.

President Jacob Zuma seen here with (left) UN Secrectary-General Ban ki-moon, the new African Union (AU) Chairman Chad Derby and AU Chairperson Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma.The award was presented to President Jacob Zuma during the ALMA meeting for Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) recently.

In South Africa, malaria cases have decreased by 82 per cent and deaths have  decreased by 71 per cent, since the year 2000 to date.

The decrease in malaria cases has been attributed to a sound malaria vector control programme, where the country has used dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane or DDT odourless insecticide for Indoor Residual Spraying, coupled with other World Health Organisation recommended interventions.DDT is colourless, crystalline, tasteless and is used as a pesticide for insect control.

"We are honoured to receive this 2016 ALMA Award, which recognises the efforts that our programme in South Africa has made, not only in the past decade, but also investments we have made to fight malaria since the 1940s,” said President Zuma.

He also noted that while South Africa was delighted at the country’s successes, government would not be complacent in tackling the disease.

“In this regard we have committed to eliminate the disease from within our borders. We are also working with our neighbouring countries to also fight the disease in our neighbourhood,” said President Zuma.

The President led a South African delegation to the 26th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU in Ethiopia recently.

Health

Working together for a better SA

Working together for a better SA Estelle Greeff
Written by More Matshediso

Sport, arts and culture

Recently, South Africa has experienced a wave of racial tension on a number of social media platforms. This has caused some discomfort for many as this deters South Africa from being a united rainbow nation.

Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa met with social cohesion advocates to devise plans that will unite South Africans.In light of this, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa recently met with social cohesion advocates in Johannesburg to discuss ways to strengthen nation-building and social cohesion, and address racism in the country.

Minister Mthethwa said it was important for the country to take stock of the progress it was making in building a non-racial, non-sexist and democratic South Africa.

“In recent weeks, we have seen that much remains to be done to build non-racialism in particular,” said Minister Mthethwa, following recent racist incidents that were widely reported on in the media.

He said citizens should not be distracted from building a non-racial South Africa.

“Building a non-racial society is not an easy task. It requires a change in mind-sets, a willingness to think, to understand the basic dignity of all people and a commitment to equality and inclusivity in pursuit of a better life for all,” said the Minister.

Social cohesion advocates are a group of South Africans who play a prominent role in building a nation that is caring, dignified and one in which there is mutual respect for fellow South Africans and humanity.

Social cohesion can be defined as the willingness of members of a society to work together in order to survive and prosper.

At the meeting, social cohesion advocates said it was time to move beyond just condemning racism and hate speech, and instead mobilise society and root out racism, starting at  grassroots level.

They represented various sections of society, including leaders from the religious sector, business, creative arts, youth and others.

Judge Yvonne Mokgoro went through 12 recommendations of the social cohesion advocates’ five-year plan. The plan was developed in line with the first five-year implementation phase of the National Development Plan (NDP) as well as the Medium Term Strategic Framework.

The aim of the plan is to achive long-term nation building goals. The recommendations are:

The social cohesion advocates' 12 recommendations:

  • To mobilise society in its entirety towards nation building. This is to ensure that South Africans – young and old – are aware of their constitutional rights and responsibilities and encourage active citizenry. The plan recommends that schools serve as the nerve centre for promoting the South African Constitution.
  • To work towards implementing the recommendations of the NDP as a long-term vision that will serve as a basis for partnerships across society .
  • To ensure that social cohesion and nation building underpins all national, provincial and local government strategic priorities. This will help to position social cohesion as a major contributor to strengthening and encouraging active citizenry. An active citizenry will ensure that government achieves on its priorities.
  • To promote and preserve all indigenous cultures and knowledge. This recommendation aims to encourage interaction between elders and the youth to help bridge the knowledge gap on the country’s history. It is hoped that this will also increase tolerence between South Africans.
  • To accelerate change in improving the quality of life of all people – especially the youth, women and people with disabilities. This is to ensure that South Africa is a more inclusive society.
  • To continue to build capacity to drive the socio-economic agenda in the country. This includes ensuring that young people and women participate and grow the economy.
  • To continue to fight any form of discrimination that is a threat to social cohesion and nation building. This is to unify all South Africans, promote solidarity, unity and strengthening national identity.
  • To repect human dignity and equality, and expand national heritage and promote freedom. The aim of this recommendation is to instill positive values within communities and encourage South Africans to treat each other with dignity and respect.
  • To expand existing national heritage and other honours and awards to recognise individual, organisations and ocmmunities who have contributed significantly to social cohesion.
  • To develop a Nation-Building Project Management Manual and Toolkit for application by practititioners at all levels and to convene Social Cohesion and National Builidng Summits at provincial, local and community level within the next 12 months.
  • To convene a National Social Cohesion Report Back and Monitoring Summit and thereafter at five-year intervals to report on progress.
  • To develop a detailed plan arising from the proposals made during the Summit, to be presented to the President.

She said it was important to include the participation of all in society if South Africa wanted to realise a cohesive society.

“We have to ensure that social cohesion and nation building underpin all national, provincial and local government strategic priorities,” said Judge Mokgoro.

Singer and social activist Simphiwe Dana said for the past 22 years South Africans had not really been responding to racist remarks or actions as much as they seemed to be doing now.

She said people were no longer afraid to confront those who commit acts of racism.

Dana called on the advocates and social activists to facilitate the process that would see South Africa moving forward in the right direction.

Faith Mangope, who is a TV presenter, said if government and institutions want to target youth, they should speak to them in the language they understand and they should also understand youth culture.

“There is a misconception that young people are not interested in issues affecting society or that they are apolitical,” she said.

Struggle icon and social cohesion advocate Sophie Williams-De Bruyn said all must put shoulders to the wheel if South Africa is to realise the social cohesion ideal.

“We must bring all our races together, no one should be left behind. Those who want to come with us must come. We will drag them, pull them and walk with them. Those who want to stay behind will be left on the roadside,” said the 77-year-old De Bruyn.

“I feel that it starts with ourselves. The beginning is ourselves. We must really penetrate ourselves and look deep into ourselves to eradicate everything about racism and divisions within our society,” she said.

It is hoped that the meeting will contribute to charting a way forward for the development of sectoral and national plans to build social cohesion, combat racism and eradicate discrimination in South Africa.

For more information on the work of the Social Cohesion Advocates visit: www.20yearsoffreedom.org.za

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Inspiring change

Inspiring change Estelle Greeff
Written by Nosihle Shelembe

Sport, arts and culture

Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi has launched the National Identity Campaign in an attempt to strengthen relations among South Africans.

The National Identity Campaign launched by Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi aims to, amongh others, promote social cohesion, nation building and patriotism. For more information on the work of the Social Cohesion Advocates visit: www.20yearsoffreedom.org.za Photo: http://www.iisd.caDeputy Minister Mabudafhasi launched the campaign, in partnership with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) Education, at Mochochonono Primary School, in Moletsane, Soweto recently.

The campaign includes promoting the singing of the national anthem, reciting the Preamble of the Constitution, distribution of the South African hand flags and publications on national symbols as well as a CD toolkit on how to sing the national anthem.

The campaign comes after South Africa recently witnessed a number of racial incidents.

“South Africa belongs to all who live in it, black and white. South Africa, like many African countries, emerged from an oppressive, divisive and colonial system, which created a fragmented society,” Deputy Minister Mabudafhasi said.

Government has identified nation building and social cohesion as one of the priorities for the current mandate period, as envisioned in the National Development Plan and detailed in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework 2014 - 2019.

“The SABC is proud to be partnering with the Department of Arts and Culture and this further entrenches the SABC’s vision of inspiring change through enriching, credible, relevant and compelling content that is accessible by all,” SABC’s Group Executive: Corporate Affairs Sully Motsweni said.

The nine-week long radio campaign will include promos, fillers, interviews and discussions on various education and current affairs programmes, in all 11 official languages.

The National Identity Campaign was launched under the slogan, “Afurika Tshipembe lashu”, meaning Our South Africa.

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