May 2018 2nd Edition

May 2018 2nd Edition vuyelwan

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Jobs: Labour May 2018

Jobs: Labour May 2018 vuyelwan
Assistant Director: Labour Relations: (Research Monitoring and Evaluation)

Provincial Office: Gauteng
Ref No: HR4/4//4/04/21
Salary: Commencing: R 417 552.00 per annum 
Enquiries: Mr. D Kgwele, Tel: (011) 853 0300

Provincial office
Chief Director: Provincial Operations: P O Box 4560, Johannesburg, 2001

Deputy Director: COIDA  

Centre: Provincial Office: Braamfontein
Reference No: HR 4/4/4/04/01
Salary: All inclusive: R 657 558 per annum
Enquiries: Ms. Z Mabudusha, Tel: (012) 313 6397

Provincial office
Chief Director: Provincial Operations: P O Box 4560, Johannesburg, 2001

Assistant Director: Supply and Demand (Performance Information Management) 

Centre: Provincial Office: Gauteng
Reference No: HR4/4//4/04/22
Salary: Commencing: R 417 552.00 per annum 
Enquiries: Mr. D Kgwele, Tel: (011) 853 0300 

Provincial office
Chief Director: Provincial Operations: P O Box 4560, Johannesburg, 2001

Senior Employment Services: Practitioner III (ESP3)

Centre: Labour Centre: Pietermaritzburg
Reference No: HR 4/4/5/36
Salary: Commencing:  R 417 552 per annum
Enquiries: Mr. MP Tshabalala, Tel:  (033) 341 53005

Provincial office

Chief Director: Provincial Operations: PO Box 940, Durban, 4000

Closing date for applications: 29 May 2018  |  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.

Jobs / Vacancies

Africa and Japan tighten relations

Africa and Japan tighten relations vuyelwan

International relations / Africa news

Government representatives and business leaders from Africa and Japan have committed to strengthening mutually beneficial trade relations.

Africa needs to diversify and shift towards the greater production of industrial products, as the next step for its countries’ economies. President Cyril Ramaphosa encouraged African countries to learn from Japan.

President Cyril Ramaphosa made this statement during a Japan-Africa Public-Private Forum, held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg recently.

He called on African countries to take hold of the opportunity to learn from Japan so that their economies can be more effectively integrated into the global economy.

“In pursuing its economic development Africa must learn from Japan’s Kaizen philosophy, with its emphasis on productivity improvement, efficiency, support for small medium and micro enterprises and skills development,” said President Ramaphosa.

He emphasised the transfer of skills need to create jobs by tapping into the young unemployed population and growing the manufacturing sector as a fertile ground for growth.

“As a country we have realised that we will not be able to grow our own economy and reduce unemployment and inequality without a massive increase in both domestic and foreign direct investment,” said the President.

Japan is among the top-10 investors in South Africa with 280 companies such as Toyota, Isuzu and NGK operating in the country.

“In 2017 Africa’s exports to Asia as a whole were worth around $64 billion said President Ramaphosa.

He told delegates that the financial and technology sectors are also areas for growth.

“The increase in the digitisation and use of cutting-edge technology and innovation are critical factors for Africa to ensure that it takes advantage of the fourth industrial revolution.”

The President added that there was great potential in financial services and explained that African economies need capital and Africa’s people need banking.

“We therefore invite Japanese banks to expand their presence in the African continent which among other things would greatly facilitate trade and investment between Japan and Africa,” he said.  

 www.SAnews.gov.za

General

Aspen creates jobs in EC

Aspen creates jobs in EC Ursula
Locals are set to benefit from a new containment facility in the Eastern Cape.

Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies launched Aspen’s R1 billion high containment facility which will create over 500 jobs in Port Elizabeth.

The facility was established as a result of partnership between the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) and Aspen.

Minister Davies said this is a significant investment which is taking South Africa into a new level of manufacturing.Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies with Aspen Group Chief Executive Stephen Saad during the launch of the containment facility in Port Elizabeth.

“If we look at the pharmaceutical industry South Africa’s population is the largest consumer of pharmaceutical products. When we look at some of these statistics, I think we can see that there are huge challenges in that we have a huge trade deficit of around R20 billion. This means we import R20 billion of pharmaceutical products than we export,” said Minister Davies.

He said the manufacturing of pharmaceutical goods contributes about 0.48 percent of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which plays a small part in the economy and employs about 9 600 people.

“When we look at the manufacturing value chains in the world South Africa will be better off if we are involved in the production of value added products even if it is just basic manufacturing than simply importing.”

Group Chief Executive of Aspen Stephen Saad said the company is a serial investor in the South African pharmaceutical industry.

“We are pleased that over 90 percent of the jobs that will be created in the new facility will be local jobs mostly drawn from surrounding communities such as New Brighton township.

“These employees will go on to become world-class highly skilled people that can hold their own anywhere and in most facilities globally.” 

Rural development

Beware of human traffickers

Beware of human traffickers Ursula
The Directorate of Priority Crimes, also known as the HAWKS, has warned South Africans to be aware of human traffickers, especially near the borders of neighbouring countries.

Mpumalanga is on the border of Swaziland and Mozambique which is creating a challenge for law enforcement.

HAWKS spokesperson Captain Dineo Sekgotodi said the number of human trafficking cases in Mpumalanga is alarming.  As a result the provincial wing of the HAWKS is conducting a widely spread campaign to inform the public about human trafficking near the borders.

“These campaigns include teaching communities about human trafficking and that it can occur at schools or near border posts. We investigate reported cases and arrest the culprits,” Captain Sekgotodi explained.

Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery. People are trafficked for financial gain that ranges from child labour and sexual exploitation to the removal of  body parts.

According to Captain Sekgotodi people who have albinism are often targeted and kidnapped for their body parts, especially children who may have impaired vision.

He said that unfortunately only a few cases of this nature are reported to the police because the community does not always know what to do. He urged South Africans to come forward with information about human trafficking, so that the perpetrators can be caught.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Leonard Hlathi said human trafficking usually happens under false pretences or by force.

 Traffickers usually target unsuspecting and vulnerable people and deceive them via fraud, trickery, lies or scams.

“Anybody can be a victim of human trafficking, but women and children are mostly targeted due to their vulnerability to sexual exploitation,” said Brigadier Hlathi.

He also stressed that children with albinism are high risk.

“It is easy for children living with albinism to be spotted or targeted, especially in isolated areas.”

Brigadier Hlathi said the best way to protect your child is to ensure that they do not go to public places alone. 

“Ensure that your child always has someone guarding them. It is also important to avoid quiet and deserted roads.”

Play your part and report any incidents and the disappearance of any person, including those with albinism, to any of these numbers:

Crime Stop: 08600 10111

Toll free: 086 727 2017

Human trafficking resource line: 0800 222 777

Safety and Security

Black industrialist on Cloud Nine

Black industrialist on Cloud Nine Joy
Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese

Rural Development

A successful entrepreneur has launched a new tissue brand thanks to financial backing from the Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS).

Mthembu Tissue Converting produces between 400 and 900 tons of tissue paper monthly which is supplied to Game stores and Nampak.Durban-based Mthembu Tissue Converting has been able to launch its own tissue brand Cloud Nine thanks to grant funding of over R13 million from the Department of Trade and Industry’s (dti) BIS.

Cloud Nine was launched by the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Bulelani Magwanishe recently.

“I firmly believe that Mthembu Tissue Converting will continue to contribute significantly to building the local economy of this region,”said Deputy Minister Magwanishe

Mthembu Tissue Converting is the first black-owned tissue manufacturer in the country and one of over 100 businesses that have benefited from the BIS since its launch in 2016.

The BIS aims to unlock South African black industrialists’ potential through deliberate, targeted and well-defined financial and non-financial interventions so that they can contribute to the economy.

Thembinkosi Mthembu, the owner of Mthembu Tissue Converting has come a long way since starting as a packer at Nampak and then being promoted to converting plant manager. 

When the plant that Mthembu worked shut down because it was running at a loss he joined the ranks of the unemployed.

But nothing could keep this successful entrepreneur down. Two weeks after being retrenched he was approached by Nampak asking him to buy the machinery that was no longer in use.

“It was a good opportunity and after doing some calculations with my accountant, I decided to take it,” he said.

The result was the launch of Mthembu Tissue Converting in 2005. The company which manufactures one- and two-ply tissues, kitchen towels, facial towels and serviettes has grown from strength to strength and now employs 103 permanent and 20 seasonal workers.

It produces between 400 and 900 tons of tissue paper monthly which is supplied to Game stores and Nampak.

Mthembu says the company wouldn’t have been successful if it wasn’t for the assistance he received from the Dti.

“The machines I bought from Nampak were old and had sometimes had mechanical faults which hindered production.

“The Dti helped as it provided an incentive for the company to buy new machines.”

“The BIS also supported the installation of new modern technology which is used to process the tissue formation and packaging of the products. This has enabled us to triple our production, upscale our manufacturing capability and empowered the company’s competitive advantage,” said Mthembu. 

Jobs / Vacancies

Bridge brings relief for KZN learners

Bridge brings relief for KZN learners Joy
Nomfundo Mcetywa
Facing crocodiles and possibly drowning while crossing UThukela River to get to school is no longer a reality for learners in KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo.

KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Mxolisi Kaunda with local learners who now arrive on time for school.This after the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport built two bridges which cross the UThukela River.

The Nyakana UThukela River Bridge, which cost R89.5 million to build, serves the Mankenganeni community which is located on the northern side of the river.

The bridge links the Umlalazi and KwaDukuza local municipalities and thus benefits learners from Nyakana Combined School, Banguni High School and Tshelabantu Combined School.

The principal of Nyakana Combined School, Zakhe Mathonsi, said punctuality has improved since the construction of the bridge.

“During heavy rains the river would overflow and parents wouldn’t allow their children to risk their lives attempting to cross it. If it started to rain some parents would even ask if their kids could be  sent home early as they feared that they wouldn’t be able to get home safely,” said Mathonsi. 

When the river was flooded Mathonsi had to contact the South African Police Service to transport learners to school or back home, which is a round trip of about 55km.

 “If the river flooded I knew that I wouldn’t see some students for two to three weeks, until it subsided.”

Mathonsi said some learners ended up dropping out of school because they would miss valuable lessons.

“Since I started working at the school in 1994 we have buried 13 learners who drowned in the river.”

Dingakele Seme (16) a grade nine learner at Nyakana Combined School in KwaDukuza said she now gets to school on time and her performance has improved as a result.

“We now get to school on time and we don’t miss any classes. We are thankful to the Department of Transport,” she confirmed.

 

Rural development

Creating jobs through tourism

Creating jobs through tourism Ursula
Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese
Creating employment for his rural community has always been a goal for entrepreneur

Agap in the hospitality sector motivated Mlungisi Nzuza to open two lodges in Nongoma and Mbazwana in KwaZulu-Natal.

He said a lot of government representatives visited Nongoma for work but did not have a place to stay and booked accommodation in Ulundi which is 57 kilometres away.

“I saw this gap as something we could tap into. My wife motivated me to look for a suitable site and we built ten rondavels for accommodation,” said Nzuza.

He says this was the start of Nongoma Inn which was a success.

 One day he came across an auction advert for a 17-bedroom dilapidated hotel in Mbazwana which is 178 kilometres away from Nongoma.

Nzuza went on to say he decided to buy the hotel for R700 000 which cleaned out his savings and he had no clue how he would get the funds to renovate the building.

 “I decided to approach the Ithala Development Finance Corporation for a loan. The loan was approved and I started with the renovations.”

The once run-down hotel has been transformed into a luxurious lodge for visitors and holiday makers to the small town. Mlungisi Nzuza with his workers.

Nzuza arranged formal hospitality training for himself and his staff to improve the quality of their service. In addition to accommodation Mbazwana Inn now has conference facilities and a restaurant.

The success of his businesses has enabled Nzuza to create permanent employment for 47 locals.

“Creating job opportunities has always been a goal of mine but it did not come without challenges. Nongoma is a traditional area and we had to educate most of our staff about etiquette and the hospitality industry,” he said.

One of Nongoma Inn's workers Nonhlanhla Ngwenya 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 about the wellbeing of his workers," Ngwenya said.

Nzuza encourages aspirant business people to be patient when starting their business.

He certainly was and that’s one of the reasons he walked away with the Tourism and Hospitality Business Achiever of the Year Award at this year’s Ithala Business Achiever Awards.

Ithala acting group chief executive Themba Mathe said the award was based on the business’s effort to ensure active economic participation for previously disadvantaged people.

“The Business Achiever Awards complement government’s efforts to address the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment,” said Mathe.  

Jobs / Vacancies

Distinguished citizens bestowed with National Orders

Distinguished citizens bestowed with National Orders vuyelwan

Sport, Arts & Culture

For decades the apartheid government sought to suppress the hopes, yearnings and aspirations of the majority of South Africans. The historic struggle to win freedom from colonialism, apartheid, racism and oppression culminated in a new vision in 1994. 

From the ashes of our past we sought to build a society where all are valued, and have ensured that the pursuit of freedom lives in the hopes and dreams of all our people. We have replaced an endless void of hopelessness and despair with a shared hope that tomorrow might be better.  President Cyril Ramaphosa bestowing Justice Dikgang Moseneke with the Order of Luthuli in Gold.

Since 1994 our collective hopes and dreams have powered us to a new dawn which is celebrated annually in April, which is the month we first gained our freedom.  During Freedom Month we look inward by reflecting on our past, our present and our future, safe in the knowledge that we live in a country free from tyranny and oppression. 

An integral part of this journey has been the annual National Orders Awards celebration.  These allow us to pause and reflect on the contributions of those who have played an integral part in our evolution from despair to hope. 

Our National Orders celebrate the inclusiveness and diversity of a democratic South Africa, our people and our place in the African continent. They embody all that is good about a democratic South Africa.

On 28 April 2018, President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Grand Patron of the National Orders, bestowed awards on distinguished local citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have played a momentous role in building a free and peaceful democratic South Africa and improving the lives of South Africans in various ways.

The National Orders are the highest awards South Africa bestows on citizens and members of the international community who have contributed meaningfully towards making the country a free democratic and successful nation.

Although they are awarded to individuals they remain a tangible expression of our shared hopes and dreams.  One of the main rallying calls since 1994 has been to build a nation united in its diversity which  has always been a major part of the National Orders. The orders themselves are an expression and recognition that every sector of society has been integral in building our new society.  

The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.

The Order of Baobab recognises distinguished service in the areas of community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.

The Order of Luthuli honours South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.

The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo pays homage to friendship shown to South Africa by foreign dignitaries or heads of state and other eminent foreign persons for friendship to South Africa.

Although each of the current recipients stand out in their own way, what unites them is a commitment to building a better country and a better tomorrow. Those who received the awards posthumously have contributed to our democracy and freedom in immeasurable ways.

Actress Lillian Dube was bestowed the Order of Ikhamanga.They were the vanguard of change and fought on the frontlines at a time when the price for defiance was often death.  We owe them an unpayable debt for their selflessness and their commitment to freedom and democracy. 

Each of the recipients this year once again represent the best of us, but they also represent all of us.  Every person who is committed to ensuring a better and more equitable tomorrow is a hero or heroine. We salute the millions of ordinary men and women who get up every day and work for a better future for themselves and their children.

Building a better future does not require people to do extraordinary things, it simply requires a commitment from all to move South Africa forward.  In the spirt of Thuma Mina let us draw inspiration from the National Orders Awards recipients. They are tangible proof that the call to “Send Me” has reverberated for decades and will continue as long as South Africans remain united in our diversity.

Now more than ever South Africa needs selfless patriots who will lead the charge for inclusive economic growth and social equality. By working together we can begin to undo the crippling apartheid legacy of poverty, inequality and unemployment. 

It will not be easy, but change never is. Those who faced a murderous apartheid regime never once thought it would be easy, and so it proved.  Yet they pushed ahead buoyed by the hope that tomorrow would bring renewed hope. 

In the year that we celebrate the centenary of the life of Nelson Mandela let us take up the mantle of change and ensure that we rally behind the call to “Be the Legacy”.   

General

Double triumph for KZN clinic

Double triumph for KZN clinic Joy
A primary healthcare facility ensured the safe delivery of twins when their mother went into early labour.

Mother of the twins Nonjabulo Buthelezi with Dr Sanele Madela, professional nurse Nozipho Sangweni, advanced midwife Lindiwe Ndawonde, night supervisor Dorcas Ngcobo and assistant nurse Thobeka Sithole.The Pomeroy Community Health Centre (CHC), located in the uMzinyathi Health District in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), has been put on the map following the successful delivery of twins when their mother went into early labour.

Women who are expecting twins are normally referred to a district or regional hospital as a safety precaution but when Nonjabulo Buthelezi (23) went into early labour she did not have the time to travel the
144 kilometres to the Pietermaritzburg-based Grey Hospital where she had been booked to deliver the twins as a high-risk patient.

 Five days before her due date, Buthelezi started having cramps. She did not think much of the cramps until that evening when she realised that she was going into early labour and was rushed to Pomeroy (CHC).

Cuba-trained Dr Sanele Madela, the chief executive officer of Pomeroy CHC was on call when he was informed that Buthelezi had been admitted to the facility fully dilated.

“We had no choice but to deliver the babies immediately. If a person is expecting twins we prefer them to give birth at a hospital that has a theatre because if there are complications during labour and delivery they can be rushed into theatre,” he said.

District and regional hospitals are the best choice because they have better resources such as theatres, better skilled staff and emergency blood stocks.

“We made sure that we had the necessary medicines to administer to the mother after delivering the second baby and the placenta. We did not want to wait for the mother to bleed,” Dr Madela said.

Buthelezi named her daughter Siyabonga and her son Zenande. They weighed 1 350 grams and 1 950 grams respectively.

Buthelezi said the doctor and medical staff at Pomeroy CHC must continue to help other patients the way they helped her.

“Even though I was scared, they were able to put me at ease and help me,” she said.

KZN Health MEC Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo congratulated the medical team at Pomeroy CHC and urged expectant mothers not to travel too far away from healthcare facilities when they are due to deliver.

“We are proud of Dr Madela and his team. It takes nothing less than expertise, passion and the dedication of all concerned to ensure that such a risky operation goes smoothly,” he said. 

Health

Free cancer screening for women

Free cancer screening for women Joy
A successful three-way partnership has ensured that almost 2 000 women had access to free cervical cancer detection.

Scores of women were part of the cervical screening drive.KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) women took a stand against cervical cancer by being part of a campaign in which the province broke the Guinness World Record for the number of Pap smears conducted at one place and in one day.

The campaign is a partnership between the provincial Department of Health, the University of KZN and the Cancer Association of South Africa. It aimed to break the world record of 1 000 Pap smears conducted in one day and with 1 950 Pap smears conducted a new world record was set.

Previously Fortis Hiranandani Hospital in  Mumbai  India screened over 751 women in an eight-hour marathon and set a Guinness World Record for the highest number of cervical cancer screenings in 2012.

It beat the 2011 record of 350, held by Kaiser Permanente in San Diego, in the United States of America.

The Pap smear drive was part of government's “Phila Ma” campaign, which generates public awareness about deadly breast and cervical cancers and promotes screening to ensure the early detection and treatment of the disease.

Cervical cancer causes more deaths among women in South Africa than any other cancer.

Bridget Khumalo now calls herself an advocate for cervical cancer detection after being one of the women who took part in the mass campaign which was held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital.

“It is important to me that I got an opportunity to do a Pap smear, so that I know if I have any problems in my body. I am appealing to all women to use the opportunity to have their Pap smear done at local clinics. If there are any problems  doctors can detect them quicker,” said Khumalo, who originates from New Germany in KZN.

A Pap smear is a simple screening test in which a brush is put into the cervix to remove a watery discharge, which is sent to a laboratory to check for cancer cells.

“After six weeks, patients go back to their clinic to get the results,” said KZN Health MEC Dr Sibongeseni Dlomo.

Both cervical and breast cancer are preventable and can be successfully treated if detected early.

Health facilities provide regular screenings to ensure early intervention.  

Health

Home Affairs declares war on queues

Home Affairs declares war on queues Joy
Written by More Matshediso
South Africans will soon be able to enjoy a faster and more efficient service at Home Affairs offices.

The Department of Home Affairs is putting an action plan in place to ensure that citizens do not spend a long time in queues.

According to Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba the long queues were caused by high client volumes, insufficient front office space, leadership issues and the closure of its offices on Saturdays.

To rectify the problem the department is analysing its geographical footprint to determine in which areas it needs to improve its services.

Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba says his department will be implementing a plan to cut long queues.“We will commission a customer satisfaction survey get the client contact centre working optimally, find a solution for unpredictable walk-in clients and front office space, explore the possibility of a new shift system, attend to the unstable system, scale-up unannounced visits by senior managers to our offices, improve workflow and beef-up communication with clients,” the Minister confirmed.

These action plans will be rolled-out as short, medium- and long-term interventions.

The Minister explained that these challenges would not be solved by quick-fix interventions and pleaded with the community for patience while the department implements them.

“We stand committed to doing the best we can to win the all-out war on queues, despite structural constraints and other challenges,” Minister Gigaba said.

Before the announcement of the action plans the department instituted an assessment report to determine how to best manage the queues and improve its services.

The report mentioned unstable systems, inefficient workflow process and unco-ordinated communication strategies that lead to unsatisfied clients and long queues.

According to the Minister, the following factors further worsen the problem:

  • Poor management in some offices
  • Ineffective utilisation of staff
  • Lack of an appointment system
  • Inefficient management of queues
  • Concurrent manual and automated systems
  • Uneven distribution of offices based on demographics
  • Misinformation on discontinuation of green barcoded identity documents
  • Poor signage at offices.

There are only 184 Home Affairs offices on the live capture system and 411 work stations across the country.

Only the 184 offices are responsible for processing applications and collections of smart identity cards as well as  passports.

The department is refurbishing 78 mobile units and it is confident that they will be deployed across South
Africa during the second half of 2018. 

Did you know?

Since the roll-out of smart ID cards in 2013 Home Affairs offices have issued over nine million cards.

General

Indaba boosts local business

Indaba boosts local business Londekile
Written by Siya Miti
The Africa’s Tourism Indaba has brought some much-needed business to local vendors.

Street vendor Solani Mtshali will be sad to see Africa’s Tourism Indaba come to an end because her beads business has been booming ever since the conference began.

“This is my first time at this event and I wish this occasion would never end. It’s been a great boost for my business. I’ve already made more than R1 000 this morning and it’s not every day that we sell so much,” said Mtshali.Vendor Solani Mtshali (right) says her business has gained global exposure at Africa's Travel Indaba.

Mtshali is part of a group of women from Mzinyathi in Durban KwZulu-Natal who were approached by the eThekwini Municipality to sell their bead work on the outskirts of the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre where Africa’s Tourism Indaba is held.

Mtshali sells “imbenge” which has ornamental value, “umxego” which is more like a necklace and belts made from beadwork.

The group also decorates items like “isichocho” a Zulu hat worn by married women with beadwork.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar.

It showcases the widest variety of Southern Africa's best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. The event event took place on 8 -10 May.
Meanwhile Mankitsing Moletsane from Dash Lodge a hidden gem in Bloemfontein is also making her presences felt at Africa’s Tourism Indaba.

She said being chosen by SA Tourism to exhibit her work was a good opportunity and is helping her market the business.

Moletsane employs five people and her lodge has ten en-suite rooms, provides bed and breakfast services as well as a shuttle service for  clients.

Moletsane who is an auditor by training opted to quit her job in government to start the business in 2011.

“I started this business because I had a love of travelling.”

She mostly promotes her three-star lodge online and mainly draws corporate clients.

“We are in a corporate area of Bloemfontein. We host different companies and we have conference facilities that accommodate 25 to 30 people,” she said.

Locals also use Dash Lodge for functions such as bridal showers, baby showers, birthday parties and corporate events.   

Did you know?

  • In 2016, the tourism sector directly employed 686 596 people.
  • Tourism supports 1.5 million jobs in total, bringing in about nine percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
  • In South Africa one in 23 people works in tourism which translates to 4.4 percent of total employment in the country.
  • Employment in the tourism industry outnumbered the number of people working in the mining (444 000) industry. Tourism also outperformed mining in adding 40 000 net new jobs to the economy in a five-year period from 2012 to 2016.
General

Jobs: Justice and Constitutional Development: May 2018

Jobs: Justice and Constitutional Development: May 2018 vuyelwan
Director: International Legal Relations

Package: R948 174 – R1 116 918 per annum
(All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.

Requirements: An undergraduate qualification (NQF level 7) in International Law/Relations as recognised by SAQA/LLB; Experience in narrative report drafting, legal and academic research; At least 6 years’ of relevant work experience of which 5 years must be at middle/senior managerial level; Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act,1999, prescripts and Regulations; A valid driver’s licence.

Enquiries: Ms M Kganyago (012) 315 1844

Master

Reference: 18/51/MAS
Package: R948 174 – R1 116 918 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
Requirements: An LLB Degree or 4 years recognised legal qualification (NQF level 7), 5 years’ experience should be at middle/ senior management level; Experience in the functional fields and services provided by the Masters of the High Court; Knowledge and experience in the Master’s environment; Knowledge of the Administration of Estate Act, Mental Health Act, Insolvency Act, Companies Act, Close Corporation Act, Trust Property Control Act and other relevant legislation; A valid driver’s licence.
Enquiries: Mr C. Msiza (012) 315 4754

Director: Asset Management: (Re-Advertisement: previous applicants need to re - apply) (12 Months Contract Appointment)

Reference: 18/48/CFO
Package: R948 174 – R1 116 918 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
Requirements: A Degree in Financial Management, Asset Management field or equivalent (NQF level 7) as recognized by SAQA; 6 years’ experience in Asset Management environment of which 5 years should be at middle/senior management level; Knowledge of Public Finance Management Act, Treasury Regulations and other relevant prescripts; Knowledge of Supply Chain Management within the Public Sector.
Enquiries: Ms S. Bezuidenhout Tel: (012) 315 1090

Deputy Director: Contracts, Litigation Risks And Performance (12 Months Contract Appointment)

Reference: 18/49/CFO
Package: R657 558 – R774 576 per annum (All inclusive). The successful candidate will be required to sign a performance agreement.
Requirements: A National Diploma/Degree in Supply Chain Management, Financial Management or Business Management (with strong emphasis on Contract Law) at NQF 6; At least 3 years working experience in the Contract Management and Supplier Performance Monitoring environment; Knowledge of SCM regulatory framework, PFM and relevant National Treasury prescript will be an added advantage; A Commercial or Contract law qualification will be an added advantage; A working knowledge of SCM government structures and Legal background will be an added advantages.

Enquiries: Ms S Bezuidenhout (012) 315 1090

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 and competency assessment. Candidate will complete a financial disclosure form and also be required to undergo a security clearance. The foreigners or dual citizenship holder must provide the Police Clearance certificate from country of origin. 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. 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.

Closing date: 21 May 2018

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

Jobs / Vacancies

KZN woman delivers twins in a clinic

KZN woman delivers twins in a clinic Joy

Women who are expecting twins are normally referred to district or regional hospital as a matter of safety precaution, but Nonjabulo Buthelezi delivered her twins at Pomeroy Community Health Centre in KwaZulu-Natal when she went into emergency labour.

Due to concerns about the growth of the twins that she was carrying, Buthelezi had been booked to deliver as a high-risk patient at Grey’s Hospital.

However, she started experiencing mild cramps five days earlier than her due date, while she was at her home in Pomeroy which is 144 kilometres from Pietermaritzburg where Grey’s Hospital is located.

Mother of the twins Nonjabulo Buthelezi with Dr Sanele Madela, professional nurse Nozipho Sangweni, Advanced midwife Lindiwe Ndawonde, night supervisor Dorcas Ngcobo and assistant nurse Thobeka SitholeButhelezi did not think much of it until in the evening when she saw signs that she was going into labour. She was rushed to Pomeroy Community Health Centre (CHC).

The medical staff at the clinic came to her rescue upon arrival. The Cuba-trained Dr Sanele Madela, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Pomeroy CHC, was on call when he was informed that Buthelezi had been admitted at the facility, fully dilated, and needed to deliver her twins.

“We had no choice but to deliver her immediately. If a person is expecting twins, we prefer them to give birth in a hospital that has a theatre, because if there are complications during the labour and delivery process, you can rush into theatre and save hers and the baby’s life,” he said.

District and regional hospitals are best choices because they normally have better resources, such as medical theatres, more skilled staff and emergency blood stocks.

Madela said when a woman is expecting twins it means that her cervix will be bigger, and after giving birth, it may not return to its normal size early enough, which makes her more susceptible to bleeding after delivering.

“Bleeding is one of the main factors that lead to mothers dying after birth,” he said.

Describing the precautionary measures that were taken during the delivery of the twins, Madela said everything was prepared and ensured that the staff was proactive.

“We anticipated everything.  We did not want to start looking for things that we knew we would need when things get out of hand. We made sure the necessary drugs are in place so that once the second baby is out and we have removed the placenta, we administer them. We did not want to wait for the mother to bleed. We prevented it from the word go,” he said.

The 23-year-old Buthelezi named her babies Siyabonga and Zenande, a boy and a girl, weighing 1350g and 1950g respectively.

Buthelezi, who is also a mother of a four year-old child, said the doctor and medical staff at Pomeroy must continue to help other patients the way they helped her.

“Even though I was scared, they were able to put me at ease and help me. I even asked them why I was told I needed to go to Grey’s Hospital when they were so well-equipped to help me,” she said.

She was immediately transferred to Church of Scotland Hospital in a specialised obstetrics ambulance, where one of the babies, Siyabonga, was put in a nursery because of his low birth weight.

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, has congratulated the medical team at Pomeroy CHC and also urged expectant mothers generally not to travel too far away from health facilities when they are due to deliver.

“We are proud of Dr Madela and his team. It takes nothing less than expertise, passion and dedication of all concerned to ensure that such a risky operation goes off smoothly. Although it is difficult to predict accurately when Mother Nature will take its course, we urge expectant mothers to make use of the mothers’ lodges which are available at some of our hospitals when they are close to their date of delivery,” he said.

“In cases of hospitals that do not have mothers’ lodges yet, we urge mothers not to travel too far from home, so that if they go into labour, they can be transported easily to the nearest health facility,” the MEC added.

Health

New App to bring faster service delivery

New App to bring faster service delivery Londekile
Written by More Matshediso

Community members from municipalities across KwaZulu-Natal will soon be able to report water leaks, potholes or power outages with just a click of a button thanks to the new Citizen Engagement Tool App.

The Department of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in KwaZulu-Natal unveiled the mobile App during their budget vote tabled by provincial MEC Nomsa Dube-Ncube.

Citizens can log incidents relating to safety and security, water and sanitation, transport, health and electricity.The new Citizen Engagement Tool App will allow community members to report leaks on their cell phones.

The Citizen Engagement Tool will also offer the ability to log service delivery incidents and also to follow up on the progress of their query.

“A logged incident is allocated a reference number which is sent via a text message and in the App to the citizen. For people without smart phones the solution offers a USSD string which offers similar functionality to the mobile App. The USSD can be customised to local languages,” said Dube-Ncube.

A USSD is a test message system such as an SMS.

She said the new App will enhance the response times for municipalities for service delivery issues across the province.

Dube-Ncube said the App works from any cell phone and allows the user to take images of a matter to be addressed.

Spending public funds wisely

Dube-Ncube also said measures will be put in place to help municipalities cut wasteful expenditure on non-core items such as mayoral vehicles, municipal consultants, events, catering, cell phones and credit cards. These funds will be redirected towards service delivery to communities.  

“Our own departmental austerity measures will now also apply to local government via a National Treasury circular which lists new cost-containment regulations that will be gazetted to become compulsory for all municipalities. In the past such measures were mere guidelines but now they are non-negotiable.”

The new regulations also limit the use of consultants and the cost of personal security for municipal office bearers.

The cost of official vehicles for municipal office bearers is restricted to R700 000 or 70 percent of their annual package.

Flight tickets are limited to economy class and the number of municipal representatives in international events will now be limited.

“We are also announcing a total ban on the use of municipal credit cards as well as severe restrictions on catering, entertainment and advertising by municipalities. We will be putting in place an oversight mechanism with proper management of consequences for non-compliance by municipal office bearers, councillors and officials,” said MEC Dube-Ncube.

General

New online booking system for driver’s licence renewals

New online booking system for driver’s licence renewals vuyelwan
Written by Nonkululeko Mathebula
A new online booking system to renew driver’s licences could see long queues at licencing centres become a thing of the past.

The system was launched in Pretoria and is designed to speed up the process of service delivery.

The booking system is free of charge and can be used to secure a booking at Centurion, Akasia, Bronkhorstpruit and Waltloo licensing centres and is available for download at https://onlinecompanysa.co.za/book

Speaking to Vuk’uzenzele, Tshwane MMC for Transport Sheila Lynn Senkubuge said the move would go a long way in improving service delivery in the region.

“Lines at licensing centres are extremely long and people spend a great deal of time in long queues, and even have to take leave just to get things done.

“Sometimes the queues are cut. You will find that in certain areas they don't have parking. So it has been an extremely tedious process for the people who live within Tshwane and use those services.

“As a result, we are thrilled to announce that this will no longer be the case.

“What we have embarked on will help us deal with the influx at our licensing centres, due to this year being another five-year cycle return for thousands of applications who converted from the green barcoded identity book driving licence to the legislated licence cards of 2003,” said Senkubuge.

To use the system, drivers can register on the Online Company website to make the booking. Once at the testing station, they can skip the queue by presenting a printed email with the appointment details to security officials.

When doing this, motorists are also reminded to bring an optometrist’s certificate for the renewal as doing so can  reduce the time spent at the data capturing desk by around 60 percent.

In the future, the time taken to collect licenses could drop to 15 minutes according to Senkubuge.

An extra fee will be charged if drivers want their cards delivered to their homes or places of work and the amount paid will depend on the area of delivery. Fees are R96.45 within most of Gauteng, R141.41 for deliveries further away such as Hartbeespoort Dam, Brits, Vereeniging and Vanderbijlpark, and R204.34 in Rustenburg.

General

POP to provide order in protests

POP to provide order in protests Ursula
The South African Police Service rolled out plans to strengthen its approach to crowd management.

As part of efforts to boost order and safety National Police Commissioner General Khehla Sitole recently launched Public Order Policing (POP) reserve units.

The units will empower police to be able to deal with crowd management and violent community protests in the country. Through the POP units there will be improved reaction time to hotpots.

 “In view of the ongoing violent protests in the country that often result in damage to property, injury to people or even loss of life, the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster was tasked with implementing the necessary measures on national, provincial and local levels to effectively deal with such incidents,” said General Sitole.

The full implementation of the POP enhancement and capacitation process will result in 11 000 police officers deployed to the POP unit.

General Sitole said new members and older members of the POP unit will receive refresher courses to enhance their skills. The newly launched POP unit showcasing their capabilities and an integrated approach to crowd management during protest.

“New police recruits will now also receive compulsory crowd management training as part of the curriculum for the Basic Police Learning Development Programme at the SAPS academies.”

The units are equipped with nyalas, water cannons, vehicles, video cameras and protective gear to enable POP members to effectively perform their duties of crowd management and public order policing throughout the country.

“Launching of the National POP reserve units is indicative of the great strides that we have made and the many challenges that we have overcome to become an organisation and a nation with one of the best crowd management and public order policing components worldwide,” said General Sitole.

He added that a panel of experts was appointed to evaluate policing at public protests and benchmark international best practices to improve policing.

“The mandate of the panel is in line with the National Development Plan’s vision of professionalising the SAPS.

“The panel is on the verge of concluding its report, which will assist with enhancing the as a whole and conducting policing in an integrated manner while co-operating with our communities.”

Safety and Security

PPP boosts education in mining towns

PPP boosts education in mining towns Joy
Written by More Matshediso
A successful public-private partnership has resulted in four state-of-the-art schools in Rustenburg.

Platinum Village primary and high schools cost R130 million to build. They have Wi-Fi, a computer room, library, administration block and sports facilities.The lives of over 2 400 learners in mining towns have changed for the better thanks to a R200 million investments which went towards school infrastructure in Rustenburg North West.

The North West Department of Education and Sport Development partnered with Impala Platinum Limited and the Impala Bafokeng Trust to build Sunrise View primary and secondary along with Platinum Village primary and secondary schools.

The construction of the two Sunrise View schools has meant there is an investment of R86 million into the Boitekong community.

There are 1 830 learners enrolled at the schools, 905 in the primary and 925 in the secondary school. They have 64 educators and 61 support staff between them. 

The classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and Wi-Fi. Both schools have a hall, computer room, library, administration block and sports and ablution facilities.

Platinum Village primary and high schools cost R130 million to build and can accommodate 1 700 learners. This year, 683 learners are enrolled in grades R to 5 and 366 in grades 8 to 10. There are 47 classrooms across both schools and each one has a hall, computer room, library, administration block, sports amenities and ablution facilities. Deputy Minister of Basic Education Enver Surty said the sustainability of mining activities depends on the ability to contribute to the wellbeing and prosperity of the communities that host mining operations.

He said government aims to work with partners including businesses, labour and local communities to build an inclusive economy that provides opportunities for social mobility, facilitated by equitable access to jobs, education and health.í

“Government is aware that to improve the overall picture of basic education we must pay particular attention to physical infrastructure. It is government’s priority to ensure that public schooling thrives in this country,” said Deputy Minister Surty during the launch.

Impala Platinum chief executive Mark Munroe said the company’s investment in housing and educational projects demonstrates Impala’s commitment to developing viable communities that can live close to work but also have access to high-quality facilities such as schools and health centres.

“Given the challenging social context of our country we are firmly committed to investing in sustainable development initiatives in the communities that are home to our employees and their families,” he added.   

Education

Protect your money

Protect your money Ursula
Consumers need to make sure that the money lending institution that they are dealing with is above board.

Acquiring a loan is easy but managing your debt and ensuring that you have a good credit record is much harder, especially with the increase in the number of dishonest money lenders known as loan sharks.

Lyndwill Clarke from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) said South Africans should avoid
doing business with illegal money lenders.

The FSCA, previously known as the Financial Services Board, is an entity of National Treasury responsible for protecting customers financially.

Clarke said consumers should be protected from illegal money lenders which are people or entities that offer credit without authorisation from the National Credit Regulator (NCR).

The NCR promotes a fair and non-discriminatory market for access to credit and regulates consumer credit.

Illegal money lenders are also known as “mashonisa” and they charge consumers extremely high interest rates.

“In some instances loan sharks resort to violence and intimidation when collecting outstanding debts. Loan sharks should be reported to the NCR and the South African Police Service.

“Clients should also contact the NCR to verify whether the institution is registered as an authorised credit provider, in line with the National Credit Act,” said Clarke.

Also advising consumers to stick to a budget when it comes to expenses which must include a ‘get out of debt plan’.

“Cut out unnecessary expenses and avoid using credit cards. Rather try to save money and buy items with cash.  Consumers must pay their debts in line with the agreement they made with the money lending institution.” 

For more information, contact the FSCA on 0800 202 087 / 0800 110 433 or visit its website at www.mylifemymoney.co.za.

Tips to spot an illegal money lender:

  • They lack an NCR licence.
  • They require items of security such as your identity document, bank card or driver’s licence. This is illegal and should be reported to the NCR or SAPS immediately. 
  • They do not provide a customer with the appropriate paperwork such as the credit agreement or record of payments.
  • They charge extremely high interest rates. According to the South African Reserve Bank’s regulations the benchmark rate at which private banks lend money to the public is 10 percent.   
Safety and Security

SA has a duty to educate youth

SA has a duty to educate youth Joy
Written by More Matshediso
Government is delivering on its promise to ensure free higher education for qualifying students.

Minister Naledi Pandor and Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela (left) with NSFAS Chairperson Sizwe Nxasana.Higher Education and Training Minister Naledi Pandor says South Africa is able to afford bursaries for children of poor and working class families entering universities and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges in 2018.

Minister Pandor said it is the country’s duty to support the poor and most vulnerable families.

"Government has invested an additional R7.166 billion to fund bursaries for children of poor and working class families entering universities and technical and vocational education and training TVET colleges this year."

Minister Pandor confirmed that R4.581 billion has been set aside for qualifying university students and R2.585 billion is for TVET college students.

In 2017 government announced that higher education will be free for poor students and those who come from families that earn a gross combined annual income of up to R350 000.

The students are supported through an expanded bursary scheme which replaces the previous loan and partial bursary scheme which was offered by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). 

“The baseline allocation to NSFAS to support poor and working-class university and TVET students will increase from R9.849 billion in 2017/18 to R35.321 billion in 2020/21.

“This implies a need for improved efficiency and systems development at the NSFAS.  We have therefore allocated an additional R105 million over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework to assist the NSFAS to increase and strengthen its administrative capacity,” the Minister said.

Qualifying students, in all years of study who are registered for national certificates (vocational) and Report 191 programmes at any public TVET college - will receive a bursary to cover their tuition fee and learning materials.

The increase in funding for 2018/19 will ensure that 458 875 students receive bursaries.

About 50 480 TVET college students who meet the requirements for travel, accommodation and meals, will also be supported while another 82 600 will qualify for transport allowances.

The Minister said the new funding allocation is expected to support approximately 83 200 of the 208 000 spaces (40 percent) available for new entrants at universities in 2018. 

Education

SADC lays foundation for peaceful elections

SADC lays foundation for peaceful elections vuyelwan

International relations / Africa news

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is boosting its efforts to ensure that democracy prevails in the region.

Former President of Mozambique Joaquim Chissano will lead a team that aims to stabilise political tensions and ensure that elections run smoothly in Madagascar. The SADC Double Troika Summit emphasised the need for peace during elections on its region.

Chissano was deployed to head the special envoy during the SADC Double Troika Extraordinary Summit held in Luanda, in the Republic of Angola recently.

He will be assisted by the Chair of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ, Angolan External Relations Minister Manuel Domingos Augusto and the SADC Secretariat.

General elections are scheduled to be held in Madagascar on 24 November and 24 December 2018 to elect the President and National Assembly respectively.

During the summit the SADC Chairperson, President Cyril Ramaphosa, also appointed an assistant facilitator who will ensure peaceful elections in Lesotho and all SADC member states.

The Lesotho government was urged to prioritise Constitutional and Security Sector Reforms.

It was also agreed that President Ramaphosa must appoint a high-profile personality to support him in his role as the facilitator.

President Ramaphosa expressed confidence that the steps being taken by SADC will result in the consolidation of democracy, peace and stability in the region.  

General

South Africa is open for business

South Africa is open for business Londekile

FROM THE UNION BUILDINGS


There’s an old African proverb that says “If you want to go fast, go alone but if you want to go far, go together.

As South Africans we need to go far together by growing our economy and creating jobs. One of the best ways to do this is by attracting investment into our country.

Investment will not only help build a solid economy but it will also help reduce poverty, boost the number of skilled citizens and make a dent in the unemployment numbers.   

In February I announced that encouraging significant new investment in our economy is a top priority for government this year as investment has declined in recent years. Total fixed investment in our economy stood at 24 percent in the GDP of 2008 but it declined to around 19 percent in 2017.

We need to work hard to change this in order for us to realise the goals set in our National Development Plan. In line with this I have launched a new investment drive that will culminate in an Investment Conference to be held in August or September 2018.

The Conference will involve domestic and international investors in equal measure but it is not intended merely as a forum to discuss the investment climate.
We expect the Conference to report on actual investment deals that have been concluded and to provide a platform for would-be businessmen and women to seek out opportunities in the South African market.

We are determined that the Conference produce results that can be quantified and quickly realised and hope to generate at least US$ 100 billion in new investments over the next five years.

In order to achieve this I have appointed four special envoys to spearhead the investment drive. These are:  Mr Trevor Manuel, former Minister of Finance, Mr Mcebisi Jonas, former Deputy Minister of Finance, Ms Phumzile Langeni, Executive Chairperson of Afropulse Group and a non-executive director of several leading South African companies and Mr Jacko Maree, Chairman of Liberty Group and former CEO of Standard Bank.

These special envoys will travel across the globe to market South Africa as a destination of choice for investment, and driving the message that the country is open for business.

I’ve likened these envoys to a pack of lions because they will be hunting down investment for us. We all know that lions run faster when they are hungry.

This is South Africa’s A-team and they will be travelling separately to major financial centres in Asia, Middle East, Europe and the Americas as well as other parts of Africa to meet with potential investors.  This will help drive investments across the continent and develop economic trade in the Southern African region and beyond.

As the special envoys travel to different countries they will be communicating a  message of a new dawn where investment is a key catalyst.

Our fundamental strengths include our thriving democracy, an independent judiciary and strong institutions. We have an advanced and diverse economy, a sophisticated and well-regulated financial sector as well as extensive transport, telecommunications and energy infrastructure.

Furthermore, we also have a bolstering youthful population, an improving basic education system and significantly expanded higher education enrolment.

At the same time, work is underway to rationalise and streamline investment regulations and reduce the cost of establishing and running businesses.

Through the more effective use of industrial incentives, special economic zones and local procurement requirements, we aim to increase investment in manufacturing and related sectors.

After several difficult years, South Africa is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for investment.

 South Africa has entered a new era of hope and confidence.

I recently took part in the Common Wealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2018) in the United Kingdom. I used this platform to promote trade, investment and the exchange of skills and knowledge between countries.

I also invited investors from the Common Wealth countries to take part in the Investment Conference taking place later in the year.

The Commonwealth is a diverse community of 53 nations that work together to promote prosperity, democracy and peace.

South Africa returned to the Commonwealth in 1994 and has worked together with its fellow members to promote the value, relevance and effectiveness of the association.

We have encouraged businesses in our country to reach out to their Commonwealth counterparts across the globe to forge closer ties and create avenues for greater trade and investment.

The time has come for us to create a new era of investment, job creation and meaningful economic transformation.

General

Space weather service to benefit Africa

Space weather service to benefit Africa Ursula
Written by More Matshediso
The monitoring of space weather patterns has become much easier with an upgraded high-tech system.

Imagine being able to monitor weather patterns in space just by looking at 15 high definition 46-inch screens, each displaying live satellite images of the sun in different wave lengths?

This is now a reality after the South African National Space Agency's (SANSA) upgraded its Space Weather Regional Warning Centre with an information wall using this technology.

The wall presents real time data from SANSA's space monitoring instruments positioned across Southern Africa, Antarctica and Marion and Gough islands.

"The upgraded system provides our team with a superior platform to monitor the sun and its activity in far greater detail for more accurate space weather forecasts, warnings and alerts and environmental data on space weather conditions used by governments and private industry in Africa.

 "This new facility will add significantly to our space weather service offerings, improve our understanding of our solar terrestrial environment and enable SANSA to further leverage the benefits of space science and technology for the African continent," said SANSA managing director for Space Science Dr Lee-Anne McKinnell.

SANSA uses the information from the centre to send warnings to organisations that may be affected when space weather conditions don’t look good.

“The defence, communications, navigation, aviation and energy sectors are especially vulnerable to the effects of space weather," said McKinnell.

SANSA chief executive officer Val Munsami said extreme space weather storms are a risk that could endanger the economy and cost South Africa billions if not mitigated effectively.

The centre is mandated to develop South Africa's space weather capabilities provide government, industry and the public with a space weather operations system; and improve the understanding and awareness of space weather in Africa. Sectors such as navigation, aviation and energy are especially vulnerable to the effects of space weather.

"Governments in several countries including the United States of America and United Kingdom have recently listed space weather on their National Risk Registers," said Munsami.

He added that the state-of-the-art facility is integral to protecting satellites Africa's national power grids and communications and navigation systems from the harmful effects of space weather.

The Space Weather Regional Warning Centre is located in Hermanus in the Western Cape, is also the only one on the African continent. 

General

Steps to prevent cot death

Steps to prevent cot death tsoana
Written by: Silisapso Nyanda

The cause of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is not fully understood, there are a number of things parents or caregivers can do to reduce the risk.

There are steps that parents can take to try and prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) - also known as cot death - which is the sudden, unexpected and unexplained death of an apparently healthy baby.

According to neonatal specialist Dr Natasha Rhoda, from the Groote Schuur Hospital in the Western Cape, the chance of a baby dying from SIDS can be minimised and sometimes avoided.

“While there are unique features associated with the syndrome, there are no diagnostic features that can be attributed to a SIDS death,” Dr Rhoda said.

She explained that SIDS is only diagnosed as a cause of death after all other possible causes have been investigated and ruled out.

“SIDS is diagnosed after a thorough investigation, including a complete autopsy. There is also a review of the child’s medical and clinical history. A death scene investigation, which includes thorough investigation of the sleep environment, bedding and position, is also part of the investigation,” she said.

Dr Rhoda, who is researching SIDS for her doctoral studies, said SIDS is typically associated with sleep and is presumed to have happened during sleep or in the phase between sleeping and waking up.

“Approximately 95 percent of SIDS deaths occur in the first six months of life, with a peak in infants aged between two to four months,” she confirmed.

SIDS deaths increase

Dr Natasha O’Connell, a paediatrician from the Western Cape’s Khayelitsha District Hospital, said the hospital recorded an increase in suspected SIDS deaths last year.

“We had seven children under one year who died from suspected SIDS in 2018. This is more than previous years. However, data on SIDS deaths for the entire Khayelitsha area and Cape Town is not currently available,” said Dr O’Connell.

Dr Rhoda said that Statistics South Africa found that 0.6 percent of infant deaths were reported as SIDS in 2015. “In low and middle income countries we do not have any reliable or accurate data for SIDS rates. Few studies exist. We don’t know the SIDS rates in South Africa because we do not have the full resources to perform autopsies and investigations in all sudden and unexpected deaths. So, we can’t accurately diagnose SIDS country-wide,” she said.

A new child death review system will investigate all unnatural deaths of children younger than 18.

Preventing cot death

There are ways to minimise the risk of SIDS.

“Do not allow infants to sleep on their tummies or on their sides because this has a 15 times increased risk of SIDS,” Dr Rhoda said.

An unsafe sleeping environment, such as overheating, soft bedding or bed sharing are also high risks said Dr O’Connell.

Parents should use firm bedding and avoid soft surfaces, like mattresses and sheepskin, because there is a risk that the surface depresses under the weight of the infant which may result in choking, overlaying or overheating. Infants should also not sleep on a couch or sofa.

The exposure of a child to cigarette smoke increases the risk of SIDS up to five times. Infants should be in a smoke-free environment and mothers should stop or reduce smoking during pregnancy and at home.

SIDS education underway

Khayelitsha District Hospital and all surrounding clinics and hospitals offer general antenatal education and support for all pregnant women, including  information about the first 1 000 days of a baby’s life and side-by-side campaigns which are run by the National Department of Health.

According to Dr O’Connell, these campaigns promote breastfeeding and community care workers focus on supporting at risk mothers, like teenagers, during the antenatal period. Community workers also visit all new mothers and babies at home, within the first two weeks after birth, to offer general education and breastfeeding support.

According to Dr Rhoda, South Africa can learn lessons from the high-income countries like America, Australia and the United Kingdom where the SIDS rate has decreased over the past two to three decades to between 0.2 and 0.5 per 1 000 live births.

“This dramatic reduction of 30 to 35 percent in the SIDS rate was largely due to the safe sleeping campaigns that these countries ran nationally,” she confirmed.   

For more information about SIDS, visit the Western Cape Department of Health’s website at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/dept/health 
Side by Side website at: https://sidebyside.co.za/.

Health

Sugarcane farmers reap sweet rewards

Sugarcane farmers reap sweet rewards Joy
Written by Hlengiwe Ngobese
Successful sugarcane farmers prove that a career in farming is filled with the promise of a better life.

Mboneni and Hlengiwe Ngqotheni own a 190-hectare farm that produces up to 10 000 tons of sugarcane and permanently employs 30 locals.Hard work, strong work ethics and an agricultural background were the only ingredients that helped an entrepreneurial couple turn their passion into a lucrative business.

Mboneni and Hlengiwe Ngqotheni are owners of a 190-hectare farm that produces 10 000 tons of sugarcane in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

The couple has also created 30 permanent jobs for the community.

The pair took a bold decision to invest all they had into buying their first sugarcane farm from Tongaat Hulett.

“We had to put down a deposit for the farm, so I resigned from my job and my wife also left her job. We applied for funding from Ithala to buy our first 137-hectare farm in 2001.

“Things went well so we applied for more funding to buy a neighbouring farm. This totalled 190 hectares, which is able to produce between 8 000 and 10 000 tons of sugarcane per year,” said Mboneni.

He confirmed that operating a farm has its challenges, especially with the recent drought which impacted their harvest.

“The drought meant that we could not reach the target we had set for ourselves. Things were difficult but fortunately Ithala extended the deadline for our loan repayments,” said Hlengiwe.

The severity of the drought made them realise that they had to diversify their crop production.

“We learnt many lessons during the drought and have started growing vegetables as well,” Mboneni said.

Backed by an agricultural qualification, Mboneni  encourages young people to study farming because there are many opportunities in the sector.

“There is a misconception that farming is only for an uneducated person, which is not true. Farming is a highly specialised field that anyone can enter," he said.    

Hlengiwe advised aspirant business people to work hard and be committed to their businesses.

“Be hands-on. Starting a business is like raising a baby. It needs all of your time. Be cautious of using funds intended for the business for your personal needs,” she said.                                                                                                                                          

The couple was a finalist in the Ithala Business Achiever Awards, which recognise the business’s achievements and excellence, its contribution to job creation and the growth of the province’s economy.

Rural development

Swartberg Pass re-opened

Swartberg Pass re-opened Londekile
Written by More Matshediso

Local Government

The opening of the Swartberg Pass will have far-reaching economic benefits for the region.

The R10 million reconstruction of the Western Cape’s Swartberg Pass following a flash flood is complete and the road has been re-opened.

Last year flash floods washed away the section of the pass between its entrance on the Prince Albert side of the Swartberg Mountain and Tweede Water.

Western Cape MEC for Transport and Public Works, Donald Grant said the re-opening of the road will have far-reaching economic benefits for the region linking the Great Karoo and the Klein Karoo by linking Prince Albert and Oudtshoorn which are major economic drivers through tourism.

“Restoring the pass to normal operations became a top priority for the Department of Transport and Public Works and the Prince Albert Municipality.

“Our greater road network remains a critical asset with a replacement cost value of over R100 billion. This asset was so important we decided to allocate R3.588 billion to the construction and maintenance of transport infrastructure, which forms a significant portion of our spend,” said MEC Grant.It was a glorious day when the new Swartberg Pass was opened linking the Great Karoo and the Klein Karoo which are major economic drivers.

 The network not only carries the bulk of the province’s traffic but it also provides key economic linkages between communities and regions.

The project saw the appointment of an additional 16 temporary local workers and one skilled worker who reconstructed the wall.

The project included the rebuilding of about 180 metres of retaining structures, road layer works and the regravelling of the flood-damaged sections.

Another four kilometres of the road were also regravelled to repair the damage from heavy rains.

The project took just under one year to complete.  
 

Rural development

Swimming programme inspires Olympic dream

Swimming programme inspires Olympic dream Ursula
Written by Vuyo Ndlovu
The old saying ‘sink or swim’ is a thing of the past for youngsters enrolled in a free swimming programme.

Snakho Nene (7) a talented swimmer from uMlazi hopes to one day represent South Africa at the Olympic Games thanks to the eThekwini Municipality’s Save-A-Life Programme which encourages swimming.

“When I grow up I want to be a professional swimmer,” she said, bursting with enthusiasm.

Nene who attends Ntwela Primary School enjoyed the programme because it taught her how to swim and what to do if there is an emergency in the water.

She has participated in the programme for the past two years and attends classes once a week in summer.

The Save-A-Life Programme promotes a healthy lifestyle through swimming whilst ensuring the maximum use of the municipality’s recreational facilities. It also encourages social cohesion and creates an opportunity for career development.Local learners showcase their synchronised swimming skills which they learnt in the Save-A-Life Programme

All members of the community are encouraged to participate in the programme which has been rolled out at the Hambanathi, Ntuzuma, uMlazi and Chesterville swimming pools.

Participants learn swimming lifesaving skills, cardio pulmonary resuscitation and expired air resuscitation techniques.

Superintendent of Aquatic Safety Valerie Shunmugan said the programme showcases developmental work at local level and equips young children with the necessary skills they need to stay safe whilst enjoying the city’s public swimming pools.

“Throughout the year we run swimming lessons for all interested parties free of charge. We also teach essential aquatic safety techniques. We want people to know that there are other types of sporting codes that they can enjoy in the swimming pool, such as aqua aerobics and synchronised swimming,” she said.

Shunmugan encourages members of the community to take part in this programme, especially since swimming is also a full-body exercise. 

For more information on how to participate in the programme please contact your nearest aquatic facility.

General

Take care of yourself

Take care of yourself Ursula
Written by Adele Schoormann
Washing your hands stops the spread of communicable disease.

The Department of Health is calling on South Africans to be mindful of personal hygiene since it can prevent a number of communicable diseases.

Personal hygiene involves those practices performed by an individual to care for one’s bodily health and well-being through cleanliness.

According to Mpumalanga Department of Health spokesperson Dumisani Malamule taking simple steps such as washing one’s hands can prevent and interrupt the transmission of diseases. Washing your hands can protect you from diseases

“Hands often act as vectors that carry disease-causing pathogens from person to person, either through direct contact or indirectly via surfaces,” said Malamule.

When hands are not washed they can transport bacteria, viruses and parasites to unsuspecting hosts.

Prevent communicable diseases from spreading.

Malamule explains that preventing the spreading of disease starts with all of us.

“We can protect ourselves, our children and families and prolong our lives. Wash your hands before, during or after preparing food, coming into contact with an ill person, using the bathroom, blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing and before feeding your baby.”

The following communicable diseases can be contracted when one neglects personal hygiene:

  • Cholera
  • Typhoid fever
  • Gastro intestinal infections such as diarrhoea
  • Listeriosis
  • Dysentery

Malamule said the Department of Health is hard at work to encouraging personal hygiene amongst South Africans.

“We do this by visiting schools and teaching learners about personal hygiene, we have ward-based outreach teams and health promoters who are actively involved in their respective communities. There are also trained community health workers who are providing health education on subjects such as personal hygiene amongst others to the communities,” said Malamule.  

Health

This month in history

This month in history vuyelwan
The first Comrades Marathon takes place

On 24 May, 1921, World War I veteran Vic Clapham and 34 others ran the first Comrades Marathon. Clapham initiated the run to remember those who had fallen in the war, by undertaking the ultimate test of body and mind and triumphing.

Sixteen runners completed the 87.9km race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. According to Sian Theron from the Comrades Marathon Association the race was won by Bill Rowan, who finished in a time of 8 hours and 59 minutes. His name was given to the sub nine-hour medal in today's race.

The first medal awarded in 1921 was a silver medal, which was given to all finishers of the event up until 1931. An exception to this rule was a special bronze medal awarded to L. E. W. Pearson, who struggled to finish the race but completed the distance in a time of 12 hours and 20 minutes in 1921.

In recent years the race was held on 16 June but after complaints received stated that the race detracted from Youth Day celebrations, the date was changed in 2006 to a Sunday in the middle of June. The Comrades Marathon is the most popular road race in South Africa.

General

Township schools get nuclear education

Township schools get nuclear education Joy
Written by More Matshediso
Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi says the launch of nuclear technology schools of specialisation will contribute to the South African economy.

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi at the launch of two Nuclear Technology Schools of Specialisation (SoS) in Atteridgeville in Tshwane.The Gauteng Department of Education has partnered with the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) to launch two Nuclear Technology Schools of Specialisation (SoS) in Atteridgeville, Tshwane.

The SoS offer a highly specialised curriculum to nurture the development of top talent in maths, science and information communication technology in South Africa so that they can focus on nuclear technology and its applications.

A child from an SoS can look forward to multiple exit opportunities including joining the labour market, opening a business or furthering their studies.

The schools cater for learners from Saulsville and the informal settlements of Jeffsville, Brazzaville, Vergenoeg and Mshongoville.

Many of the learners from these areas are from poor households. Some are from child-headed households and others are taken care of by their grandparents because their parents are deceased or work far away from home.

 “Every morning many children leave their homes in the townships to attend schools in the suburbs as far as 20 kilometres away because township schools are perceived to be of poor quality and schools in the suburbs are considered synonymous with excellence in education,” MEC Lesufi said.

To address this challenge the department has put a programme and strategy in place to reorganise schools particularly those in townships.

“We are investing millions to change the quality of education in townships and turn around historic labour reservoirs into zones of hope, development and transformation,” he said.

NECSA chief executive officer Phumzile Tshelane said he is ecstatic with the nuclear SoS project.

“The department established the concept of specialised schools by benchmarking the skills development practices in other countries. This concept aims to create and implement a curriculum that is industry specific hence the partnership with NECSA,” he said.

He explained that the launch is a pilot project which will include two community specialised schools, Phelindaba Secondary School and Edward Phathudi Secondary School.

The project twins an under-resourced school with a resourced school to create a SoS that focuses on nuclear technology and its applications.

SoS will be defined as a catalyst by many enthusiasts who want to learn more about nuclear applications in the medical, agriculture, automotive, aviation and mining sectors.  

Education