Another InvestSA One Stop Shop has been launched to provide investors with services to fast-track projects and reduce red tape.

President Jacob Zuma launched the InvestSA One Stop Shop to help unlock opportunities for growth and investment in KwaZulu-Natal.

InvestSA’s One Stop Shops – which were also rolled out in Gauteng and the Western Cape earlier this year – house government entities like SARS‚ Home Affairs‚ Environmental Affairs‚ Eskom and the Companies and Intellectual Properties Commission under one roof to reduce red tape, decrease costs and make business easier.

The primary aim of the provincial One Stop Shops is:

• to co-ordinate and incorporate special economic zones,
• provincial investment agencies,
• local authorities and government departments involved in regulation, registration, permits and licensing matters.

Chairperson of the KZN Business Chambers Council, Dominic Collett, said that the One Stop Shop provides hope for prosperity and job creation through the injection of investment from outside the province.

“This will strengthen the province’s value proposition to investors as a preferred destination for investment.

“It will also attract new markets to KZN through creating a conducive environment for trade and investment, making the province a gateway to Africa and the world,” she said.

President Zuma said investment promotion is critical for the economy.

“We look upon new or expanding businesses to contribute to much-needed job creation. For us to be able to draw in new investments, we need to create a conducive environment,” he confirmed.

President Zuma said government has been sensitised by business about the challenges they face when seeking to establish businesses in South Africa.

“One Stop Shops will not immediately resolve all of the challenges experienced by investors, but every effort is being put in place to remedy the challenges,” he confirmed.

The InvestSA One Stop Shops will be the point of contact for investors to obtain permits, licences and other regulatory documentation.

“Government wants to make it easier for citizens to establish businesses. As a result, the registration of businesses has been made quicker and easier. The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission has rolled out self-service terminals for company registrations, in partnership with banks, local economic development agencies and chambers,” he said.

By June 2017, self-service terminals were introduced in provinces and are accessible to small businesses in rural areas.

The Department of Home Affairs has partnered with banks to roll out Smart ID cards and passports, with a turnaround time of five working days.

“The establishment of these new services should assist to further enhance our country’s attractiveness as an investment destination,” said President Zuma.

As part of the National Development Plan, government is tasked with doing more to support investment into the country. The KZN One Stop Shop will be housed at the offices of Trade and Investment, because the agency carries the provincial mandate to attract and retain investment in the province.

The province has established a satellite office at Dube Trade Port and another one is currently under construction at the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone.

A KwaZulu-Natal Aids centre has developed a parenting programme to help grandfathers to become parents and role models to their grandchildren.

A number of grandfathers in KwaZulu-Natal’s rural Molweni, Nyuswa, Nqetho and Embo recently completed Hillcrest Aids Centre’s parenting course.

It is geared to help these men to look after their grandchildren should their parents die.

The programme forms part of the centre’s holistic approach to HIV and Aids prevention and community upliftment.

According to programme manager Cwengekile Myeni, the programme supports, encourages and empowers grandfathers to raise orphans, some of whom also have HIV or Aids.

“The aim of the programme is to encourage and equip male elders with the skills and knowledge they need to share  the grandmother’s responsibility of caring for their grandchildren or younger relatives,” she said.

The course covered business skills training, forgiveness and healing from past hurts, the importance of family relationships and communication.

Myeni said many children are missing a ‘father figure’ and they therefore need to help grandfathers, fathers and uncles to become loving father figures and role models. 

“This course provides a safe space for men to discuss any challenges and concerns they have in terms of raising their grandchildren and to access the centre’s confidential counselling services,” she said.

Vusumuzi Mgcini (57) from KwaNgcolosi took part in the programme. He is a loving grandfather of eight and believes that the programme will help him. 

“The course has been very good for my mind and soul. I’ve learnt about the importance of forgiveness and repairing broken relationships with my loved ones. The group has helped me a lot to support my grandchildren,” he said.

Ford invests in SA

The first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor will be produced in South Africa when it hits the market in 2019.

Local assembly of the Ranger Raptor will take place at Ford’s Silverton assembly plant in Pretoria. It will also coincide with the introduction of an updated Ranger line-up due in 2019.

As part of their strategic growth to accommodate the requested market volumes for South Africa and our export markets, Ford is investing in increasing the plant’s capacity from 27 to 33 jobs per hour as of January 2018.

SA to participate in AU ICT meeting

A South African delegation participated in the African Union Extraordinary Session of the Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Communication and ICT (CICT).

The Deputy Minister of Communications, Thandi Mahambehlala, and the Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, led the South African delegation to the meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

South Africa was elected into the Bureau of the CCIT as the Rapporteur, representing the Southern Africa region.

 

 

 

Local Government

A plan has been approved for the envisaged Ekurhuleni-based Aerotropolis.

Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality has approved a 30-year Aerotropolis Master Plan to pave the way for R8.1 billion a year investment.

Mayor Mzwandile Masina said the Aerotropolis – which is located near OR Tambo International Airport – is set to bring about spatial, economic and social transformation.

“This programme is a deliberate growth trajectory aimed at enhancing the value proposition of the Gauteng City Region, with particular emphasis on the Ekurhuleni regional economy as the footprint of the first Aerotropolis on the African continent,” he said.

Using labour intensive scenarios, the Aerotropolis promises massive job creation for the city and Gauteng.

The master plan identifies projects in various sectors, such as retail, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, logistics and distribution, research and development health and life sciences, which are enablers of economic turnaround.

The Aerotropolis leverages OR Tambo International Airport, which handles 19 million passengers every year and has a capacity of 60 million.

OR Tambo International Airport. It  handles 83 percent of all air cargo movements, thus playing a critical economic role for South Africa, Gauteng and Ekurhuleni.

“The OR Tambo International Airport is in a good position to accelerate its logistic and air cargo activities regionally," said Mayor Masina. The airport is already a gateway for the transit of high-value, time-sensitive products, such as electronic equipment and textiles and footwear for nearby countries,” he said.

At the centre of the master plan is the redesign of the city’s layout, infrastructure and economy to  centre on the airport.

Mayor Masina said the project requires a multi-layered funding approach to deliver the strategic objectives of the Aerotropolis.

The festive season is upon us and most members of our communities are excited for the opportunity to once again spend valuable time with family after a year of hard work.

It is at this time that as Government we would like to impart important messages to the population. Firstly, as some Government departments and other organisations usually close business in the middle of the month of December, this means that until the actual time of vacation, employees should remain at their various work stations executing their duties to ensure continued and optimal function of the country's economy.

While winding up its business for the year, it is important that government continues its role by rendering the services to the people of this country without fail.

Also, by now it must be a custom that government employees avail themselves to help in the times of emergencies when their help is urgently needed and to take turns to ensure continued service where necessary.

Firstly, we wish to convey a special message of support and encouragement to our emergency workers as well as essential service personnel such as in the medical fraternity whose work demands their continued service in this busy time of the year.

We salute them; they are our heroes and heroines because they work hard to save lives, among other things.

Secondly, and most importantly, our government has made considerable advancements in its mandate of improving the lives of the people of South Africa.  This year we marked five years since the adoption of the National Development Plan (NDP), which is the blueprint of our country's development towards Vision 2030. We have successfully rolled out various programmes to realise the objectives outlined in the NDP.

To give impetus to the NDP for example, our government has launched  six industrial zones with the investment value of ten billion rand.

Through our Operation Phakisa Big-Fast Results Methodology, we have unlocked opportunities in various sectors such as ocean economy in order to to create employment and improve the economy of our country.

For instance, by the end of December we plan to have opened One Stop Shops in all provinces to assist business by providing a single point of process to facilitate hassle-free investment in our economy.

We have also continued, through strategic and mutually beneficial bilateral relations, to open opportunities for reciprocal investment and benefit to expand our economy. All these and many other measures have been put in place to fight poverty, grow our economy and improve the conditions of the poorest in our country.

This year we have also celebrated the centenary of the late ANC President Oliver Reginald Tambo and highlighted the many ways in which he continues to be an inspiration to us in serving our people.

We conclude the year in the same celebratory note hoping that we will continue to cherish the legacy of these great leaders by serving our people better at all the times.

Let us be inspired by the values President Tambo espoused by protecting our most vulnerable during this festive season.  It includes the elderly,  women, children and the disabled as well as the poorest among us.

In particular, let us protect our young girls and women against human trafficking and forced prostitution and make all efforts to dissuade our children from alcohol and drug abuse during this festive period.

On the 1st December it is Worlds Aids Day. HIV is still one of the biggest challenges we face and requires that we practice abstinence, faithfulness and safe sex. It is important to also guard ourselves against lifestyle diseases by staying healthy and not overindulging.

Finally, safety on our roads and everywhere should be our utmost priority during this time of the festive season. In this regard, let us work together to prevent and fight crime. Let us obey the rules of the road at all times, and be vigilant while driving. We appeal to all road users not to drink and drive and exercise patience and restraint against road rage.

We must all make a conscious decision to reduce and end this notorious yearly carnage on our roads at this time.

We must all reach out to the disadvantaged, the orphans, the poorest, and show them our love and affection while sharing with them in to order to make this season a merry and memorable time as well.

May you have a refreshing Christmas season and a prosperous new year returning  to your various work places and learning safe and sound and ready to resume your duties with zest and renewed energy.

Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese

Local Government

People in KwaZulu-Natal no longer have to compete with livestock to access water thanks to new infrastructure provided by government.

Over 100 000 people from previously disadvantaged communities in the Umuziwabantu Local Municipality in KZN will soon enjoy an uninterrupted supply of clean water. This follows the recent launch of the Weza Water Treatment Plant.

Acting MEC for KZN Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, launched the R15 million water treatment plant which forms part of government’s Comprehensive Rural Development Programme. The programme aims to tackle under-development, food security, unemployment, poverty and other social-ills. 

“This is real development and our people are extremely happy for they will now have access to clean water 24/7” said MEC Dhlomo. “We have restored their dignity and we will not rest until we have  universal access to basic services in this province,” he said.

MEC Dhlomo said almost 90 percent of households in the province have access to clean water.

”This bears testimony to government’s commitment to ensuring a better life for all citizens,” he said.

The plant purifies about two million litres of water a day and will improve water services to the community to about 60 litres per person, per day.

Resident Nokuthula Manci (18) said access to water will give her more time to focus on her studies. 

“Every day after school I had to go and fetch water from the river, which meant I had less time to focus on my studies. After this development my marks will definitely improve,” she said.

MEC Dhlomo urged community members to safeguard the infrastructure. “This plant belongs to the community. We expect communities to ensure that it is protected at all times as it is for public benefit and will go a long way toward ushering in a better life to communities that were neglected in the past,” he said.

Written by Chris Bathembu

Government is winning the fight against corrupt officials with hundreds now in prison.

According to statistics released by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) law enforcement authorities are winning the fight against corrupt officials. Over 300 convictions against government officials have been reported since April 2016.

Government says corruption has the potential to slow down investment and disrupt economic growth, and urges the community to report suspicious activities.

The most common dilemmas facing whistle blowers is fear for their safety and victimisation.

Some people turn a blind eye to corruption because they are afraid that it will jeopardise their career or put their life in danger. However, the Protected Disclosures Act makes provision for reporting corrupt activities and offers protection for those who come forward.

“Whistle blowers are protected as they form an integral part of the fight against corruption,” said Advocate Malini Govender from the Specialised Commercial Crimes Unit.

Whilst the public and media have raised concerns about
selective prosecution and political meddling in certain high-profile cases, Advocate Gerhard Visagie from the Special Investigations Unit said the unit’s approach is professional and works within the law.

“We can only investigate cases once they are mandated through a proclamation signed by the President,” he explains.

“We receive cases of corruption and malpractice and prepare a motivation for the Department of Justice, which then goes to the Presidency before we investigate.”

An Anti-Corruption Inter-Ministerial Committee was established in 2014 to coordinate and oversee the work of state organs that combat corruption in the public and private sectors.”

There is a public perception that corruption is out of control.

A survey conducted in March 2017 showed:

• that 78 percent of households believed that corruption in South Africa is on the rise.
• corruption as one of the eight top challenges facing South Africa.

Put a stop to corruption! Report any  suspicion to 0800 701 701.

 

Eskom plans to create 10 000 jobs in Mpumalanga over the next three years as part of its development initiative.

“As Eskom, we believe it is important to contribute to improving the lives of the communities in which we operate. We will be engaging the community in an effort to inform them on how they can participate in these opportunities,” said Eskom interim Group Chief Executive Sean Maritz.

The temporary and permanent jobs that will be created will be available in various trades within the energy sector and will largely include infrastructure maintenance and development projects in the region.

The power utility has identified local business growth and development opportunities at all of its sites in the province that will enable the implementation of its Mpumalanga development strategy in the short term.

“Eskom is ideally positioned to not only support the economic development in Mpumalanga but social development as well. And as such, over 90 corporate social initiatives largely driven by the Eskom Development Foundation, have been budgeted for across sites in Mpumalanga for the current financial year.” Text Box:

In addition to the jobs that will be created, Eskom has:

• Identified commercial opportunities in the area that will see over 194 contracts of varying durations available to interested parties in the current financial year ending in March 2018.
•  Created 335 bursaries and 680 learner development opportunities for young people in Mpumalanga. This is in an effort to develop much needed skills in the province.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has confirmed that a marriage of convenience comes with a 15-year jail sentence.

 

An app has been designed to assist in the fight against crime in Gauteng.

The Gauteng Department of Community Safety has partnered with non-profit  organisation Happimo to pilot its safety app Namola, which aims to reduce the amount of time it takes law enforcement to attend to emergencies.

Namola is designed to improve alert and dispatch times to under one minute.

Namola is free to download from app stores, and enables users to easily share their GPS coordinates, name and nature of the emergency.

Namola improves efficiency and pinpoints the user’s exact location, making it easy for emergency services to find them.

Community Safety MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane said its a pilot project that’s being run in collaboration with Gauteng Traffic Police and will initially see 20 vehicles fitted with and using the system.

“This innovation should be applauded because for some time there has been an outcry from some community members about the delay in response time to crime scenes and emergency incidents. I am excited that this will now be a thing of the past,” she said.

“Gauteng Traffic Police has already installed the application in our fleet, test runs have been conducted, a control room has been set up at our head office and it’s fully functional.”  

 

Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese

The first HIV vaccine efficacy study to launch in seven years is testing whether an experimental vaccine regimen safely prevents HIV infection among South African adults. A new version of the only HIV vaccine candidate ever shown to provide some protection against the disease is part of the HVTN 702 clinical trial.

The trial aims to enrol 5 400 men and women to make it the largest and most advanced HIV vaccine clinical trial to take place in South Africa. It is currently underway at 15 sites in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, North West, Eastern Cape and Western Cape.

The first participant was enrolled in October 2016, and results are expected in late 2020.

The participants are sexually active men and women aged between 18 and 35.

Participants are given five injections over the first year and a booster six months later. They are then monitored for another two years.

“Trials such as the HVTN 702 provide advocates and community stakeholders the opportunity to build and strengthen vaccine literate communities to hold science to account as the trial progresses,”he said

 “It is likely that in the next few weeks participants will be given the oral medication, Truvada, to take daily for HIV prevention. It is a highly effective practice called pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Users take a pill a day to reduce their risk of contracting HIV,” said Johnson.

 Trial investigators will be able to discern a preventive effect from the vaccine regimen, even if some participants are taking PrEP.

A participant in the study, who didn’t want to be named, said she wants to be part of making history.

“I have lost relatives and friends because of HIV and Aids-related illnesses. If researches are coming up with something that could save the world, I must be part of it,” she said.

Johnson said the safety of participants is essential to the success of HVTN 702. As such, an independent Data and Safety Monitoring Board will carefully monitor participants’ safety.   

 

Written by Nonkululeko Mathebula

Government has established a fund to give entrepreneurs the opportunity to become game changers and boost their businesses.

Government has allocated R1 billion to the newly announced fund for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) for the 2018/19 financial  year.

According to Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa the fund, which was announced in the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement, aims to empower small businesses, especially those in township areas.

 “The National Informal Business Upliftment Strategy is also available to help township enterprises to upgrade their business activities,” he said.

Vuk’uzenzele spoke to young entrepreneurs who are constantly seeking ways to grow their businesses, to hear their views about the fund.

Founder and co-owner of bottled water brand, Vatii, Siyanda Malaza said he will be applying for the fund and is confident that it will advance his business.

“I’m definitely excited about this fund and it goes without saying that I will be applying for it,”

Thabitha Malinga, the founder of Thabi’s Mobile Spa, said she appreciates such efforts by government at
empowering for entrepreneurs.

“Small businesses like mine tend to lack resources and funding as well as the capacity to fully operate.  As a result, we cannot take on big businesses and that’s how most collapse within a short period of time,” she said.

If she were to get more funding Malinga would buy more vehicles for her mobile spa, which would enable her to take on more bookings a day and grow her business.

Written by Dale Hes

As the end of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children draws to a close Vuk’uzenzele puts the spotlight on child grooming.

The period of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children is no better time to reflect on and take action against child grooming.

Whilst child grooming is an unfamiliar term to many South Africans, all parents, community leaders and government officials should be aware of this danger to innocent children.

What is child grooming and who is targeted?

Child grooming is defined as befriending and establishing an emotional connection with a child (and sometimes their family), to lower the child’s defences for the purposes of sexual abuse.

Children from as young as three years have been targets of child grooming although most victims are between the ages of 11 and 17. The majority of cases involving teenagers occur over the internet, especially via mobile phones, and children with attention-seeking behaviour are especially at risk.

In a recent incident involving a municipal mayor it was alleged that he was sexually grooming a teenage girl, a friend of one of his family members. Among other
accusations, he is alleged to have convinced the girl to exchange nude photos with him.

How does it happen?

Child groomers may try to gain a parent or guardian’s trust to get easy access to a child.

A trusting relationship with the family enables a child groomer to spend time with a child, by babysitting or inviting them for sleepovers. There have been several global instances of people in positions of power bribing parents with money or employment in exchange for alone time with a child. Child groomers often approach their victims over the internet, sometimes posing as children themselves, before asking to meet in person.

How can parents prevent or act against child grooming?

• Help your children to understand who they should and shouldn’t be communicating with on social media.
• Encourage them to only interact with people they already know.
• Keep an eye out for changes in your child, such as being overly secretive about online activities, having an older boyfriend or girlfriend, meeting people at unusual places, suddenly having new possessions or having access to alcohol or drugs.
• Educate your child on the dangers of grooming.

Governmentís stance on child grooming

Child grooming is viewed as a serious sexual offence under the Criminal Law (Sexual

Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007. Law enforcement and government normally act swiftly on any allegations of sexual abuse against children.

The mayor alleged to have committed a child grooming offence was immediately arrested and suspended.

Gauteng MEC for Social Development Nandi Mayathula-Khoza explained at provincial legislature that a criminal case is being investigated by the provincial Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.

“The special cabinet task team visited the girl’s home to get facts and offer support. The family has applied for a protection order to ensure that the alleged perpetrator stops contacting the girl,” the MEC said.   

 

Recent reports in the media about metro police brutality have highlighted the need to put a spotlight on the important role this department plays in making sure that there is safety, security and order in the cities.

Is the Metro Police Service part of the South African Police Service?

No. The Metro Police Service is a department within a municipality.The SAPS and the metro police often work together in the fight against crime.

How do I identify the Metro Police?

The metro police are easily identified. They have a distinctive blue uniform with a blue and white checkered band on their hats. Their vehicles are also clearly marked with the same blue and white checkered band on the sides.

Besides law enforcement, what other work do metro police officers do?

Metro police direct traffic in the event of an accident, breakdown, spillage or when lights are out of order.  They also enforce bylaws, for example, checking for illegal traders and over-loaded vehicles. They enforce public transport legislation and assist with vehicle testing.

Metro police officers are there to ensure there is law and order in the cities in which we live. It’s up to all of us to work with them to ensure that they are able to perform their duties.

Metro police do not investigate crimes nor have police cells to lock up suspects. Once an arrest is made, the suspect is handed over to the SAPS for follow-up investigation.

How quickly will the metro police respond to a call?

In many cases metro police are constantly patrolling the area in a number of ways. There is usually a bicycle section, a horse unit, motorcycles and a wide variety of other vehicles. Metro police also patrol on foot.

What sort of training do the new recruits go on?

Municipalities ensure that recruits go on training to prepare them for their work. Training involves the city’s bylaws, traffic regulations, and crime prevention legislation, self-defence, among others.

Metro Police officers undergo ongoing training to remain well informed of changes in legislation, new methods of crime prevention, and so on.

Family reunions and tragedies are two sides of South Africa's annual festive season, when the roads that lead to reunions and festivity also become places of death and injury.

Thousands of people lose their lives on South African roads every year. Motorists who will be travelling long distances during the festive season are urged to be more vigilant, drive safely and follow road regulations.

Safety tips for motorists

• Always obey the rules of the road.
•  Buckle up and ensure all passengers do so too. Young children should be seated in a safety seat.
•  Keep a safe following distance.
• Adjust your speed to road conditions. Slow down when it's raining or when the road is wet. Reduce your speed when travelling in rural areas where animals or children may cross the road at any time.

 Use low-beam headlights between sunset and sunrise, as well as in poor visibility. Never drive with your parking lights switched on. Never drive when you are tired. Stop regularly, or where possible, change drivers.

• Carry a blanket, fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit.
• Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. A roadworthiness should include a check of the following: headlights, direction indicators, stop lights, tail lights, windscreen wipers, brakes, steering wheel, tyres, (including spare), exhaust system and fuel leaks.

Also remember to

• plan your route before you leave
• carry a spare fan belt and radiator hoses in case the car breaks down in a remote area
• do not leave valuables in the car; rather lock them in the boot
•  keep the car locked when unattended
•  keep a spare set of ignition, boot and house keys in your wallet or purse
•  make sure that there's a working lifting jack and wheel-spanner in the car
•   never leave a child or pet in a parked car. The heat in a car left in the sun may cause heatstroke
•   keep a list of emergency numbers in an accessible place.Useful emergency numbers

Emergency number for the flying squad, fire department and ambulances: 10111

Crime Stop: 08600 10111

Cell phone Emergency Number (Free on all cell phone networks) 112.

It is the festive season and many people will be spending a lot of time outdoors, exposed to the sun. Spending too much time in the sun without protection can be bad for your skin and can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems, as well as increase the risk of skin cancer.

Here is how you can protect yourself:

• Parents must take extra care of their children’s skin by applying sunscreen and insisting that they wear a hat. Parents and guardians should also consider choosing a baby sunscreen, which contains a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15.
• Contact a health professional to help you choose the right sunscreen for your child.
• When spending time in the park for a picnic or a day at the beach parents must keep children in the shade as much as possible.
• Parents should consider dressing children in loose fitting clothes and fabrics that have an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating.
• Parents should make use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or above and it should be applied 15 to 20 minutes before going outside.

All skin types should:

• Avoid direct sunlight between 10am & 3pm. Stay in the shade or under an umbrella as much as possible.
• Wear protective clothing; wide brimmed hats & UV protective clothes/swimsuits
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection rating UV400
• Always apply sunscreen regurlary (SPF of 20 – 50) according to skin type
• Avoid sunbeds & sunlamps
• Spot the spot – check your skin carefully every month (follow A, B, C, D, E Rules)

Written by Nonkululeko Mathebula

Government has launched its biggest business training campus to assist entrepreneurs across the continent.

The launch of the Bryanston-based 22 ON SLOANE campus took place on 10 November coinciding with the launch of the South African Chapter of the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW). The launch was hosted by the Minister of Small Business Development Lindiwe Zulu, who said she was confident that a vibrant and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem will help SMMEs enter the mainstream economy.

“My vision is to create a base where entrepreneurs can emerge with a requisite skills base and support that will propel them to a higher level and enable them to contribute to job creation and poverty eradication, whilst harnessing the values and principles of a true entrepreneur,” she said.

The campus has positioned itself to train the next generation of entrepreneurs. It will be home to start-ups, entrepreneurs and investors, who can use its resources to develop their business ideas.

Minister Zulu said that young people need to ensure that the campus does not collapse.

“South Africa depends on  small and medium enterprises. I believe that they can assist to deal with poverty. That is why it is important that we constantly support them,” she said.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura said the campus should change the face of entrepreneurship.

“We have many young people on our continent who have what it takes to thrive in business. They need a support system and that’s what this campus aims to do,” he said.  
The campus will be used by entrepreneurs from across Africa and will be linked to other innovation and SMME hubs.

It offers support on product development, business models, funding opportunities and access to markets, and provides access to GEN’s entrepreneurs, mentors and investors from the 170 countries in which it operates.

The Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Jeff Radebe, says an implementation protocol has been signed between the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the South African Post Office (SAPO).

This paves the way for a collaborative agreement towards the payment of social grants.

 “A lot has been achieved in finding a sustainable solution for the payment of social grants in the country," he said.

 “The implementation protocol was concluded and signed between SASSA and SAPO, and by the Minister in the Presidency on behalf of the Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC),” said Minister Radebe.

Implementation protocol

The Minister said the implementation protocol is accompanied by an implementation plan, which identifies various critical steps required to ensure the payments of grants by 1 April 2018.

• There are various stages: including finalising all necessary service agreements;
• agreement on the cost model and conclusion of the cost benefit analysis of the options;
• issuance of the first batch of the new biometric-enabled card and developing software for the card management system.

The final stage would be a handover process from Cash Paymaster Services (CPS) to the new service provider.

A communication strategy has also been developed by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), as per the IMC directive. The GCIS will ensure that beneficiaries remain informed and that their fears about the payment of social grants are allayed.

“We understand the anxieties that the impasse over social grants has caused, including fears that the cards might expire and beneficiaries will not receive their grants. I can assure all SASSA beneficiaries across the country that no card will expire come end of this calendar year,” he said.  The Minister said the protocol allows SAPO to provide SASSA by 1 April 2018, subject to cost effectiveness:

 

Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese

Government is emsuring that children with special needs have the transport they need to get to school on time.  

Minenhle Bhengu’s days of missing school in Esigodini, Pietermaritzburg, are over, thanks to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s purchase of 15 buses for special needs schools in the province.

 “The one we were using before it was old and it had many mechanical problems. Since we got his new bus, we always get to school early,” said Bhengu.

MEC Mthandeni Dlungwane said the department has provided 103 buses to 71 special needs schools in the province at a cost of R17 million.

“We have identified the need to provide transport for these schools as some of the learners live with disabilities, making it difficult for them to use public transport. Most special needs schools don’t have hostels and need pupil transport,” he said.  

There are about 19 303 pupils with learning disabilities in the province. The department will donate another 20 buses in the 2018/19 financial year, because the number of learners in these schools is growing.

The department dedicated the buses to reflect and acknowledge progress and development in the provision of learner transport, as one of the pillars of the implementation of the Inclusive Education White Paper 6.

H.S Ibrahim Special School parent Noma Kubheka, said she's happy that her child have reliable transport.

School governing body representative Beryl Oliphant confirmed that the buses will make life easier for learners.

“We are happy that the department is trying to get our pupils to school so that they do not feel excluded by society,” she said.

Their efforts have effectively taken 14 members of this community out of unemployment and poverty,” Somyo said.   

 

Written by Noluthando Motswai

A group of learners will represent South Africa at the International Schools Moot Court Competition in the Netherlands in 2018.

Being part of the group of pupils who won the National Schools Moot Court Competition has made Sibulele Mbambi (18) more eager to become a lawyer.

Mbambi and his team mates Athenkosi Mthiya, Qhayiya Moyinje and Kian Terwin will now represent South Africa in the international leg of the competition in the Netherlands next year.

Each member of the team won a bursary to study law on completion of their matric.

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development John Jeffery recently announced the winning team.

“I want to congratulate you on your remarkable achievement. I know that in a few years many of the judges that you see here today will still be on the bench and many of you will be appearing before them in this court, as attorneys or advocates,” he said.  

Every year the Department of Basic Education; Department of Justice and Constitutional Development; the Foundation for Human Rights; the universities of Venda, Western Cape and Pretoria; the Law Society of South Africa and Cliff Dekker Hoffmeyr Inc host the Schools Moot Court Competition to create greater awareness among learners and communities about the Constitution, and to encourage talented young people to pursue careers in law. “It feels great to win nationally. I have never represented South Africa in any category before. This is very exciting, and I feel honoured,” Mbambi said.

He has always had an interest in law because it protects South Africans’ rights.

“I am eager to learn the different laws that the country has and how they impact my life and the community that I live in. Law brings peace and harmony to the country. We are able to be tolerable of each other because of the different laws that we have.”

The competition saw 159 teams submitting essays, 83 of which progressed to the provincial rounds to debate a hypothetical case. 
 

Written by Galoome Shopane

A gap in the mobile catering market has been targeted up by a budding entrepreneur.

Civil engineer turned entrepreneur Itumeleng Leepile from Thaba Nchu, in the Free State, saw a gap in the market to make mobile units such as kitchens, toilets and butcheries.

“ No one makes mobile units in the Free State. I was inspired to help out other small businesses, like mine, which are in the catering sector,” he said.

Leepile believes his products have helped small catering companies become more effective and efficient.

The company has four employees and five interns.

“Students struggle to do the practical training they need to get their diploma. This is my way of helping them get their qualifications on time,” he said.

When Leepile started the company he did not have money, but this did not squash his passion.

“I told myself that I just needed to use my brain to get a space where I could work.”

Although Leepile hasn’t received funding, he is grateful for the support he has received from the SEDA Agriculture Mining and Tooling Incubator (SAMTI) at the Central University of Technology.

SAMTI is a business incubator for small, medium and micro enterprises in  the mining and agricultural tooling sectors.

“I’m proud to say that I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for them,” he said.  

He hopes to grow his business.

“We are looking forward to opening branches in other provinces” he said.

Leepile said an entrepreneur must be prepared to work hard.

 “An entrepreneur’s drug is success. As an entrepreneur, I’m addicted to success.  I decided a long time ago what I want to be and how I’m going to do it.”

Rural farmers benefit from entrepreneur’s animal feed invention.

Gauteng-based Khepri Innovations won the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme South Africa for its product, Khepri Meal, which turns organic waste into animal food.

The food is supplied in bulk to the pet food industry and small organic farmers.

Owner Bandile Dlabantu took home R120 000 and will enjoy an all-expenses paid trip to the Cleantech Open Global Forum, in the U.S. where he will compete against winners from across the globe in 2018.

The competition, funded by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, offers participants extensive training and mentoring to help them get their products investment-ready, and connects them to local and international peers, partners and funders.

Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor presented the grand prize to Dlabantu at a gala event in Pretoria recently.

"Through its ongoing support of entrepreneurs and innovation, the programme  strengthens the resilience of the complex South African entrepreneurial economy in the global market. It will have measurable economic and social benefits for the country," she said.

Dlabantu a microbiology graduate who also obtained a master’s degree from the Wits Business School. He left the corporate world after nine years to use science pursue his dream to merge farming and science.

“I wanted to provide solutions for rural farmers to help lower costs, protect the environment and create job opportunities,” said Dlabantu.

Office Manager

Reference: 17/51/SA
Salary: R334 545 – R394 065 per annum. The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: An appropriate 3 year degree/National Diploma or equivalent qualification; 3 years appropriate experience of which at least one year should have been at supervisory level; Knowledge of Performance Management System and Financial Management in the Public Service will be an added advantage; Knowledge of the Public Service and the working of Government; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Mr E Seerane Tel 012 315 1780
Closing Date:  15 December 2017

Assistant State Attorney (LP3-LP4) (11 posts)

Reference: 17/43/SA Johannesburg (2)
Reference: 17/55/SA Thohoyandou (1)
Reference: 17/56/SA East LONDON (1)
Reference: 17/42/SA Durban (2)
Reference: 17/60/SA Pretoria (1)
Reference: 17/52/SA Kimberley (2)
Reference: 17/53/SA Mahikeng (1)
Reference: 17/54/SA Bloemfontein (1)
Salary: R265 284 – R759 603. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

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

Enquiries: Mr E Seerane 012 315 1780
Closing Date:  15 December 2017

Assistant State Attorney (LP3-LP4) (4 posts)

Reference: 17/41/SA: Durban (1)
Reference: 17/57/SA: Cape Town (2)
Reference: 17/59/SA: Pretoria (1)
Salary: R265 284 – R759 603. (Salary will be in accordance with OSD determination). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: An LLB or 4 year recognized legal qualification; Admission as an Attorney; At least 2 years appropriate post qualification legal/litigation experience; Right of appearance in the High Court; Conveyancing will be an added advantage; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Mr E Seerane 012 315 1780
Closing Date:  15 December 2017

Maintenance Officer: MR1 - MR4 (2 posts)

Contract appointment ending 30 September 2018
Note: Applicants who previously applied for the posts with reference no: 17/TEMP06/NW should not re-apply.
Reference: 17/TEMP09/NW
Salary: R174 606 - R312 510 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 4 year legal qualification; Extensive knowledge of the maintenance system; Proficiency in at least two official languages; Knowledge of the Maintenance Act (Act 99 of 1998); Understanding of all services and procedures in the area of maintenance and other areas of family law; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Ms L Shoai 018 397 7054
Closing date: 01 December 2017

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

Tel: 012 315 1111 Private Bag X81, Pretoria, 0001 Momentum Centre, 329 Pretorius Street, Pretoria www.justice.gov.za @DOJCD_ZA at DOJCD

Assistant Director: Fraud Investigation and Anti Corruption

Provincial Office: Limpopo 
Reference No: HR 4/6/6/108
Salary: Commencing: R 334 545.00 per annum
Enquiries: Ms MC Ledwaba, Tel: 015 290 1768
Applications: Chief Director: Provincial Operations: Private Bag X 9368 Polokwane 0700, For Attention: Human Resources Operations, Limpopo, Physical address 42A Schoeman street Polokwane 0700
Closing date: 19 December 2017

For full details of the advertised posts visit our website: www.labour.gov.za

Applications must be submitted on form Z83, obtainable from any Public Service Department or on the internet at www.gov.za/documents. The fully completed and signed form Z83 should be accompanied by a recently updated, comprehensive CV as well as recently certified copies of all qualification(s) including a Senior Certificate and ID-document [Driver’s license where applicable]. Non-RSA Citizens/Permanent Resident Permit Holders must attach a copy of their Permanent Residence Permits to their applications. Should you be in possession of a foreign qualification, it must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). Applicants who do not comply with the above-mentioned requirements, as well as applications received late, will not be considered. The Department does not accept applications via fax or email. Failure to submit all the requested documents will result in the application not being considered. Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates only. If you have not been contacted within eight (8) weeks after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. Suitable candidates will be subjected to a personnel suitability check (criminal record, citizenship, credit record checks, qualification verification and employment verification). Where applicable, candidates will be subjected to a skills/knowledge test. All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical competency exercise that intends to test relevant technical elements of the job, the logistics of which be communicated by the Department. Following the interview and technical exercise, the selection panel will recommend candidates to attend generic managerial competencies using the mandated DPSA SMS competency assessment tools. Successful candidates will be appointed on a probation period of 12 months. The Department reserves the right not to make any appointment(s) to the above post. The successful candidate will be expected to sign a performance agreement. The Department of Labour is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer. The employment decision shall be informed by the Employment Equity Plan of the Department. It is the Department’s intention to promote equity (race, gender and disability) through the filling of this post(s) with a candidate whose transfer / promotion / appointment will promote representativity in line with the numerical targets as contained in our Employment Equity Plan.

What is Operation Phakisa?

Operation Phakisa (meaning hurry up in Sesotho) was launched by President Jacob Zuma in July 2014, deriving the concept from Malaysia’s Big Fast Results Methodology. It is a results-driven approach to development, involving various sectors such as business, labour, academia, civil society and government. Operation Phakisa involves setting clear plans and targets, on-going monitoring of progress and making these results public. The methodology consists of eight sequential steps. It focusses on bringing key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, academia as well as civil society organisations together to collaborate in: detailed problem analysis; priority setting; intervention planning; and delivery.

Why the Oceans Economy matters:

Tel: +27 (0)12 312 0000 Website: www.operationphakisa.gov.za or www.environment.gov.za Email us: oceansphakisa@environment.gov.za

International relations / Africa news

An improved refugee travel document has been created to improve asylum-seeking management.

The Department of Home Affairs has launched new technology that will make the movement of refugees  easier and more secure. The Machine Readable Travel Document for Refugees uses the latest passport production technology and security standards.It is fully compliant with the United Nations Human Rights Council and the International Civil Aviation Authority’s guidelines.

“Machine readable travel documents are more secure. Because security considerations play an ever-increasing role due to the risks of document and identity fraud, they not only increase security and trust among states but also enhance users’ confidence levels, in this case, refugees,” said the Department of Home Affairs.

“They facilitate the safe and regular movement of refugees and  reduce the risk of exploitation, abuse, violence and human trafficking.”

As with previous documents, applications for a refugee travel document must be lodged at Refugee Reception Offices.  An interview will then be conducted with the refugee to establish the purpose of travel and the destination and to inform them of the consequences should they travel to their country of origin. The latter could lead to the withdrawal of refugee status.

Holders of valid refugee travel documents will be allowed to use  existing travel documents until they expire. The new document will be valid for the same period as the Section 24 refugee permit.

The introduction of the new document is part of a process that seeks to markedly improve the management of refugees entering and leaving South Africa.

 

International relations / Africa news

Defence and Military Veterans Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula congratulated Seitebatso Pearl Block on scooping the United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.

"One cannot but salute Major Block for her hard work and dedication while serving in the DRC. Her commitment to the protection of civilians, especially women and children has been inspiring. As a peace and goodwill ambassador in her own right, she is an epitome of what every member of the SANDF should be," said Minister Mapisa-Nqakula.           

The award recognises the dedication and effort of an individual peacekeeper in promoting the principles within the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.                                                                

Block received her award at the UN Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial (UNPKDM) Conference held in Vancouver, Canada.

Block has been an officer since 2007 and has been deployed twice to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the leadership of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Her first deployment was in 2010 as an Information Operations Officer. When she was deployed again in 2016, she also served as a Force Intervention Brigade Planner.

She is hailed for developing a number of strategic projects adopted and launched by MONUSCO. During her tenure as an Information Operations Officer, she worked closely with different MONUSCO sections such as Disarmament, Demobilization, Repatriation, Reintegration, Resettlement (DDRRR), UN Mine Action Services (UNMAS), Protection of Civilians (PoC) and Gender & Child Protection. She was also instrumental in the implementation of a project aimed at reaching out and disseminating information to women's organisations in far-flung areas of the DRC.

The Chief of the South African Army, Lieutenant General Lindile Yam, will lead the South African delegation attending the UN Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial Conference on behalf of the Minister.   

 

International relations / Africa news

The Battle of Blood River - Sunday, 16 December 1838

On 16 December 1838 the Battle of Blood River took place near the Ncome River in KwaZulu-Natal. The Battle of Blood River was between the Voortrekkers under the leadership of Andries Pretorius and the Zulu under the leadership of Dingane.

About 10 000 - 20 000 Zulu warriors led by Dingane's generals Dambuza (Nzobo) and Ndlela kaSompisi attacked the Voortrekkers, but the 470 Voortrekkers, with the advantage of gun powder, warded them off.

The battle began at dawn and was over by midday. More than 3 000 Zulu casualties were counted around the laager. Only, three Voortrekkers (including Voortrekker leader Pretorius) were wounded, none were killed. The Ncome River became red with the blood of the slain. Hence the river became known as "Blood River".

Source: www.sahistory.org

 

 

 

Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese

Sport, arts & culture

A national sport and cultural tournament aims to keep the country’s senior citizens active and healthy.

Senior citizens from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) took top honours at this year’s National Golden Games which were held at the Kings Park Stadium in Durban recently.

The 2017 Golden Games, held under the theme Older Persons Moving South Africa Forward, encouraged senior citizens to be active and lead a healthy life. The games, which included soccer, athletics and a fun walk, were part of a series of events that included cultural activities.

Delani Mazibuko a participant in the games said the Golden Games help fight social ills and keep senior citizens healthy.
"Today we are showing the world that you can keep your body healthy by excersing no matter your age," he said. Minister of Social Development Bathabile Dlamini attended the event with Deputy Minister Hendrietta Bogapane-Zulu; KZN Premier Willies Mchunu; Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi and Social Development MEC Weziwe Thusi.

Although KZN was the winning province, all participating provinces were rewarded for  encouraging a spirit of fun, rather than competition.

Premier Mchunu praised the country’s older persons for participating. “We thank senior citizens for responding to the government’s clarion call for them to live an active and healthy life. We also appeal to those who abuse our elderly, in any form, to cease doing this.”

“We are always humbled by the dedication and commitment to achieving desired results,” he said. 

 

Written by Galoome Shopane

Sport, arts and culture

An aspiring poet dreams of performing on the global stage in Sesotho, his native language, to encourage people to love the language.

Moshe Sekhobo, also known as Moshe wa ha Sekhobo, dreams of becoming one of Africa’s well-known poets.

Inspired by his passion for Sesotho culture and heritage, Sekhobo uses his poetry to preach the importance of self-knowledge.

“I think we need to know where we come from, knowing that will help us to know our destiny,” he said.

Sekhobo recently published a book called Monokotshwai, which is also available in audio format for people who struggle to read Sesotho.

“It is a collection of powerful, motivational Sesotho poems and idioms. I want to set a good example for other young people to perceive life with a positive mindset and to not give up on their dreams,” he said.

When on stage, Sekhobo wears the traditional Sesotho blanket, Seanamarena, to highlight the pride he has in his culture and to stand out from other artists.

He is inspired by various poets, including Chinua Achebe, Mokopu Mofolo and William Shakespeare.

Sekhobo dreams of performing on the global stage in his native language.

“I would like to take my craft as far as possible, to be known worldwide and to influence people to love Sesotho poetry,” he said. Poetry is growing
rapidly in the Free State, especially among the youth.

“There’s a need to develop the integrity of the arts. Artists should come together to support each other.”