Monday, May 31, 2010

WesBank Fund empowers community members



MEDIA RELEASE:

WesBank Fund empowers community members with knowledge and skills to plant own home food gardens

On Friday 21 May, more than 300 NGO’s, members from various Hospices, church groups and the greater community of WhiteCity gathered at the African Children’s Feeding Scheme Centre in Jabavu, Soweto for the inaugural “A re Lemeng – lets get planting” workshop, a WesBank Fund initiative, supported by Tshikululu Social Investments.
The WesBank Fund operates under the umbrella of the FirstRand Foundation and supports nine community agricultural organisations across South-Africa. All the organisations have a track record of service delivery and are regarded as best practice models in the sector.
As part of ongoing learning in the sector, the “A re Lemeng” workshop was developed to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills to plant and maintain their own home or community food garden, helping to create food security and sustainable livelihoods at the micro level. The knowledge and skills delivered at the workshops are based on best practices identified from the beneficiaries of the WesBank Fund.

“Creating and ensuring sustainable food security at the micro community level is a key focus area for the WesBank Fund, “says Dr George Nyabadza, Chairman of the WesBank Fund.
The WesBank Fund believes that the need to empower communities to become self-supporting is one of the most pressing needs in South Africa. Only in breaking the cycle of poverty and dependence can people regain their dignity and catch a glimpse of a brighter future. In order to develop sustainable progress, it is critical to influence people's thinking - moving them beyond the victim mentality and empowering them to take responsibility for their own development.
The workshop began at 09:00 and concluded at 15:00. Groups of 20-25 participants were segmented to allow a rotation of the learning sessions. The learning sessions commenced with a formal “school type” lecture on crop rotation and harvesting presented by Lynette Parsons from LIMA. This was followed by hands-on teaching on creating food towers and other planting techniques, ground trenching, compost formation, pest control and growing of organic matter.

The workshop included exhibitions stands, questions and answer sessions, community engagement, actual digging and trench making and handing out of brochures and seed packs sponsored by Mayford. The exhibition stands included; The Department of Agriculture, Food Gardens Foundation, Hlumelisa, Ilima Development and Robin Good.

The African Children Feeding Scheme (ACFS), a WesBank Fund beneficiary, hosted the day at their feeding centre in Jabavu. ACFS currently feeds 21 000 children daily and 130 families are benefiting from its food gardens programme. 

The “A re Lemeng – let’s get planting” workshop will be rolled out to various communities across South Africa during the next 12 months.


WesBank is a division of FirstRand Bank Limited.Authorised Financial Services and Credit Providers (NCRCP20).

Media Enquiries:
Fleishman-Hillard                              WesBank
Genea Frade                                    Loura Brown                                      
011 548 2002                                   011 649 5298
Genea.Frade@fleishman.co.za       loura.brown@wesbank.co.za                              

 


Saturday, May 29, 2010

FNB Mtubatuba blown to bits

In the early hours of Friday Morning a series of bomb blasts shook Mtubatuba as villains attempted to withdraw cash from a secure area with out using the traditional methods. According to eye witness accounts the street in front of the bank was sown with hundred and fifty rand notes from the destroyed ATM.

Photo by Danie Scholts

Text by: Petrus Viviers

035 590 1024

Email: willorene@mweb.co.za

Co-Ordinates :  28˚ 22' 53.76¨ S

                               32˚ 24' 31.08¨ E

Danie Scholtz   


Thursday, May 27, 2010

Accident in Richards Bay

In the early hours of this morning there was an accident at the Green
Africa robot Meer en See Richards Bay. This is one of the main arteries
where the John Ross is about to become Anglers Rod. Traffic was backed
up but not delayed as Emergency staff treated the injured and cleared
the road. Richards Bay Traffic Department, Fire Brigade, Police, various
Ambulance services and Tow Inn Service was quick to respond and present
at the scene of the accident. Some passengers in the back of the pick
was injured. Both vehicles was damaged badly.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Police raids on private colleges

Media statement by Higher Education and Training Minister Dr Blade Nzimande on police raids on private colleges

25 May 2010

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande welcomes the police raids on unregistered private colleges in Pretoria and Johannesburg and the arrests of operators of these institutions.

We have been concerned by the activities of some private education institutions which constitute fraud and criminal offences. The Department of Higher Education and Training has been working with the police in their investigations into reported cases of alleged fraudulent activities by some private education institutions.

The operation of private institutions without registration was outlawed in June 2005 but many fly-by-night colleges continue to operate and attract thousands of students every year.

Since 2005, the department received a total of 935 applications for registration as further education and training (FET) colleges across provinces. Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape account for 464, 175 and 134 respectively of the total received applications, while the other six provinces constitute the remaining 163 applications.

The department's own investigations based on students' complaints have revealed that the majority of institutions not registered are located Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape.

Minister Nzimande recently met Association of Private Providers of Education, Training and Development (APPETD) to discuss the problem of illegal colleges and institutions which offer courses which are not registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training. He also expressed his concern about the quality of courses offered which are not registered.

"We cannot taint all private colleges as some are abiding by the law and offering good quality courses. However these colleges are being discredited by the fly-by-night institutions which exploit people who are desperate for education and training qualifications. For this reason, government will continue to make sure that illegal operators are flushed out," Minister Nzimande said.

The Department of Higher Education and Training established a Stakeholder Forum comprising the National Prosecuting Authority, APPETD, the Council on Higher Education, Umalusi and the South African Qualifications Authority, among others, to work together with the police to enforce the regulation of private FET colleges.

Institutions which are closed down for non-registration should remain closed until they are registered as private FET colleges. Equally important is that institutions may not operate if their applications for the registration are pending. Students who are victims of illegally operating institutions which have been closed down should act to claim legal compensation from those institutions.

The Department of Higher Education and Training will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies, including police, by providing them with information that they may require for purposes of investigation and prosecution of any private institutions throughout the country that may be contravening the laws that regulate private FET colleges.

Minister Nzimande urges students and parents to verify the registration status of institutions with the Department of Higher Education and Training before enrolling for courses.

Registration can be verified on the department's website, http://www.education.gov.za or by calling 012 312 5878. Enquiries can also be made by fax at 012 323 8817.

Contact:
Ranjeni Munusamy
Tel: 012 312 5555 or 021 465 5513
Cell: 072 571 2812
E-mail: munusamy.r@dhet.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Higher Education and Training
25 May 2010

Inspection and state of readiness

Premier Modiselle to lead Executive Council on inspection and state of readiness visits to Rustenburg and Potchefstroom

25 May 2010

North West Premier Maureen Modiselle and the entire Executive Council (EXCO) will tomorrow visit Rustenburg and Potchefstroom as part of the provincial government’s efforts to ensure that all is well and ready for the hosting of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup matches, national teams that will be based in this province as well as visitors, soccer spectators and dignitaries expected.

The visit will include visit as from 10h00 to the following areas in Rustenburg:

* The official FIFA fan fest
* All the indentified park and ride areas
* The provincial Joint Operating Centre
* The Royal Bafokeng stadium
* The Bafokeng sport campus, which will be the home base of the English national team and houses the newly completed Royal Marang Hotel.

From thereon, the delegation will depart for Potchefstroom which will be home to the Spanish national team during their stay in South Africa, and visit the new recently upgraded Potchefstroom Airport which be opened at 16h00 tomorrow.

It is envisaged that the mayors of all municipalities concerned will be accompanying premier and EXCO during the visits in the two cities mentioned.

The media is invited.

For more information, contact:
Kgotso Khumalo
Cell: 082 7288 400
Tel: 018 387 3456 or
E-mail: khumalok@nwpg.gov.za.

Issued by: North West Provincial Government
25 May 2010

Gauteng Premier to spread Africa Day message in Yeoville


25 May 2010

Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane will be in Yeoville today celebrating Africa Day and calling on all Africans to rally around the first-ever African Soccer World Cup. The Premier will be joined by artists such as Arthur Mafokate.

Details of the event are as follows:
Date: 25 May 2010
Time: 16h00
Venue: Yeoville Recreational Centre, corner Raleigh and Rocky streets

For more information contact:
Dumisani Zulu
Cell: 082 602 3532

For directions contact:
Bongani Mkhabela
Cell: 072 416 4908

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
25 May 2010

Monday, May 24, 2010

MEC Grant to announce schools holiday plan for 2010 FIFA World Cup

24 May 2010

Keeping our learners safe during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the
mid-year holidays is a major concern for this administration.

Not only do we want to make sure that they are free from harm's way, but
we also plan to make the most of the world cup, by using the energy
around the event to support teaching and learning in our schools.

Tomorrow, MEC Donald Grant will be announcing the various initiatives
that are aimed to help improve learner education outcomes during the
world cup, as well as keep learners safe and preoccupied during the
longer winter holiday break.

Venue: 23rd floor, Sanlam Building, Golden Acre, Adderley Street. (We
will ensure easy access for journalists)

Date: 25 May 2010
Time: 11h00

Media enquiries:
Bronagh Casey
Cell: 072 7241 422
Tel: 021 467 2377

Issued by: Department of Education, Western Cape Provincial Government
24 May 2010

2010 FIFA World Cup - Energy

South Africa will ensure a continues supply of electricity during the 2010 Fifa World Cup™.

  • We have guaranteed an uninterrupted supply of electricity to key 2010 Fifa World Cup™ installations.
  • The country has enough reserve margin to help see it through the duration of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
  • Southern African Power Pool (Sapp) signed a pledge for a reliable power supply during the 2010 World Cup.
  • All 2010 World Cup stadiums will be self sufficient and not place any addition stress on Eskom’s power grid.

All 2010 Fifa World Cup™ stadium will be fitted with generators as their primary power source.

  • All ten of the World Cup stadiums will be fitted with diesel-powered generators to ensure undisturbed power supplies during matches.
  • Each stadium generator will be powered up two hours before the start of each match and could provide power for up to two hours after a match. Eskom will be used to provide backup power for the stadiums in line with standard international practice.
  • Over R200-million has been allocated by the National Treasury to secure generators according to Fifa requirements.
  • All broadcast power used during the month-long event will also originate from generators – guaranteeing uninterrupted viewing worldwide.

South Africa has taken the appropriate measures to ensure the continued supply of energy for the tournament.

  • All matters of power supply have been prioritised in all strategic 2010 Fifa World Cup™ forums.
  • An Electricity Supply Steering Committee was established to identify risks and recommend appropriate strategies.
  • We continue to pursue alternative energy sources and energy saving initiatives to promote electricity savings.
  • Government is set to meet the "real target" of between 2 000 and 3 500 Megawatts of electricity being saved by the time the world cup kicks off.

2010 FIFA World Cup - Transport

Government is confident that the integrated transport infrastructure of the country will meet the needs of the FIFA World Cup™

  • Government has invested more than R19 billion on public transport infrastructure for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ to ensure that the tournament leaves a rich legacy for our country and Continent.
  • The country’s three main airports, OR Tambo International, Cape Town International and the newly built King Shaka airport in Kwazulu-Natal are ready to receive the thousands of additional travellers.
  • The smaller airports in Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, East London, Kimberly and Upington have also been upgraded and are an important link into the integrated transport approach for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
  • Transport infrastructure for the World Cup is in line with the country’s long-term developmental goals. New initiatives earmarked for use during the World Cup, such as the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and the Gautrain, form an integral part of the legacy of the tournament.

An integrated transportation system is in place for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™

  • We have an inter-provincial and regional transport system in place, which is operated by the Operating Managing Entity (OME) to ensure the efficient and safe transport of ticket holders.
  • The first class national integrated transport system utilises and integrates the services of the newly acquired AutoPax coach fleet (110 units) with that of minibus vehicles and the taxi industry.
  • The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has upgraded its rail infrastructure, increasing mobility and accessibility for commuters during the tournment.
  • Dedicated transport services include 418 trains, 420 buses allocated to MATCH, 200 buses for the FIFA family and 350 buses for general spectators.
  • This is in addition to the 1 100 buses already in operation, as well as 800 midi-buses to be managed by the OME.

All modes of transport during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will be closely monitored to ensure that they are working efficiently

  • Transport operations will be monitored by the national transport command centre, a 24-hour call centre and an interactive website: "Find Your Way 2010".
  • The transport command and call centre will coordinate and manage the implementation of our 2010 transport plans in conjunction with provinces and host cities.
  • Real time traffic and transport information will feed into the command centre to enable quick decision making and responses to incidents.
  • Our road safety plans will be coordinated and monitored by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to will ensure appropriate traffic law enforcement on identified routes with high traffic volumes.
  • Routes leading to and from host cities, airports, hotels, stadia, fan parks, public viewing areas and other places of interest will receive priority attention from our traffic law enforcement officials.

010 FIFA World Cup - Tourism and hospitality

The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ is an opportunity for the world to be exposed to South Africa as a destination of choice for both leisurely and business interests

  • The event is an unprecedented opportunity to make South Africa a more widely known and better understood destination. The 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will leave a tangible and lasting tourism legacy in South Africa.
  • South Africans are ready to welcome the international community to our country with hospitality and openness.
  • South Africa offers exceptional value for money and a quality travel experience, combined with range of activities and attractions.
  • As a developing economy, South Africa is composed of various lucrative markets and business ventures which are ready to be partnered with.

Measures are in place to assist all 2010 FIFA World Cup™ visitors during their stay in the country

  • A National Tourism Contact Centre will provide tourists with a  single point for all tourism related information. The contact centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will serve customers in seven international languages (English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Dutch and Portuguese).
  • Visitor Information Centres have been opened in the five host cities of Polokwane, Bloemfontein, Rustenburg, Nelspruit and Port Elizabeth.
  • South Africa signed an agreement with Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique to allow tourist “border-free” tourism packages. 
  • Trained volunteers, aptly named “tourist buddies”, will provide helpful tourism information and friendly service to 2010 FIFA World Cup visitors.

Ticket holders of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will receive preferential treatment at ports of entry

  • Speedy immigration processing through dedicated express lanes will be available to all 2010 FIFA World Cup ™ ticket holders at ports of entry.
  • Mobile border units will be deployed at various land ports of entry, where a high volume of visitors are expected, for expedient clearance of travellers..
  • South Africa is the first country in the history of the FIFA World Cup™ to offer an Event Visa to nationals travelling from specific non-visa exempt African countries. 
  • A new system capable of scanning 65 security features in a passport in less than 15 seconds, will facilitate quicker and safer passage of tourists.
  • The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is piloting the state-of-the-art Movement Control System at Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, and will soon roll it out at 33 priority ports of entry countrywide.

Accommodation

Government is satisfied that the majority of South Africa's accommodation establishments are acting responsibly

  • South Africa has sufficient numbers of rooms available at affordable prices around the country to cater for the accommodation needs of 2010 FIFA World Cup visitors.
  • MATCH, the company appointed by FIFA to deliver accommodation, has secured 1 725 190 room nights for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ and 43 percent of the entire inventory (741 832 room nights) in the 1 007 properties will be reserved for the general public.
  • Seventy-four percent of South African accommodation establishments are charging reasonable prices ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
  • FIFA’s accreditation extends from South Africa’s top-notch hotels to selected game lodges, guesthouses and bed and breakfast establishments.
  • Other innovative accommodation facilities include the camping village that will be set up at Sahara Stadium Kingsmead, Durban. This venue is in walking proximity to the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

010 FIFA World Cup - Stadiums

South Africa has delivered world class stadiums for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™

  • The ten stadiums to be used during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ have been completed and are ready to host the world's biggest football tournament. All the stadiums have hosted successful trial events to test their readiness for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
  • The stadiums were handed over to FIFA way ahead of schedule.
  • South Africa’s ten World Cup stadiums will be serviced by an integrated transport system incorporating rail and road transport to ensure that fans are safely transported to and from stadiums. 
  • Over 40 000 police will be on duty during the 2010 FIFA World Cup and security around stadiums and fan parks has been identified as a priority.
  • South Africa's ten World Cup-ready football stadiums give South Africa truly magnificent, capable and world-class sports venues which will be the destination for global sporting and cultural events such as the world cups of other sporting codes, the Olympic Games and music concerts.

Last modified: 24 May 2010 11:03:14.

2010 FIFA World Cup - Security measures

South African Police Service poster

South Africa is confident that the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ will be safe and secure.

  • We have dedicated more than 46 000 police officers to secure the hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The majority of the police deployed for the tournament are trained officers with experience in major events.
  • Host cities have been divided into sections, with police teams patrolling each section focusing on accommodation, stadiums, fan parks, restaurants and tourist venues.
  • Route security, specifically those leading from airports into the cities, ports of entry and team bases will be a priority.
  • We have dedicated police stations, crime-investigation teams and special courts within close proximity to each stadium operating on a 24-hour basis. Our Joint Operational Centres at both national and provincial levels will be fully operational from 24 May 2010.

South Africa’s 2010 FIFA World Cup™ security plan has been applauded by all stakeholders.

  • A comprehensive security plan, which includes South Africa’s approach to addressing terror threats, hooliganism and crime, was submitted to FIFA in June 2008.
  • This plan was well received by security experts from the 32 participating countries and by 188 Interpol member countries.
  • South Africa has successfully delivered close to 150 major sporting events, including the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2009 Indian Premier League, without incident.
  • South Africa had representatives at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, UEFA EURO 2008 and the Beijing Olympics to learn from the host countries’ experiences.

Police are working with their international counterparts to ensure a safe 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

  • Interpol has set up an office in South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ to assist authorities secure the tournament. The Dangerous and Disruptive Persons (DDP) database developed by Interpol will assist authorities in keeping such persons from entering South Africa.
  • The Regional Southern African Development Community (SADC) Security Plan has been finalised and cooperation with several countries is underway. Border securities, including sea and air security strategies, are in place.
  • Countries competing in the event will send their own specially trained police officers to assist with languages and cultural differences and to support the South African Police Service (SAPS).
  • The French military has trained SAPS in techniques used to deal with possible violent situations in order to protect spectators at the stadiums.

Every precaution has been taken against international and local terror threats for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

  • Since 2004 we have been working closely with international agencies to gather intelligence, where pro-active and re-active preparations were undertaken to overcome any potential terrorism threat.
  • Law enforcement specialists from all participating countries – including intelligence structures – will permeate South Africa by 24 May 2010. United States and the United Kingdom will be sending a larger contingent of officers to secure their teams.
  • Within hours of receiving a rumoured threat, police are geared to identify the credibility of such reports.
  • Various simulation exercises have already been conducted by the police and military with great success.

State-of-the-art information and communications military technology is being used to secure the tournament. These investments will continue to assist the police in their crime-fighting initiatives long after the World Cup is over.

  • There will be four mobile command centres that will able to receive live footage from the airplanes and other cameras.
  • Surveillance of stadiums and key areas will be monitored by over 300 mobile cameras.
  • There are 10 mobile command vehicles, a fleet of nearly 40 helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.
  • Ten water cannons, 100 high-performance vehicles for highway patrol and up-to-date body armour will be used.

2010 FIFA World Cup - Health measures

South Africa’s health facilities – both hospitals and clinics – are ready for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™

  • South Africa is ready to provide health services of an international standard to football fans who travel to the country for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
  • Our health facilities are in line with our health infrastructure guarantees that were made to FIFA on being awarded the tournament.
  • A comprehensive health and medical response service will be available on a 24-hour basis over the duration of the tournament.
  • South Africa's state of readiness for health care was tested during the 2009 FIFA  Confederations Cup with great success.

A comprehensive health and medical response system is available in different areas during the duration of the tournament

  • The National Health Operations Centre (Nathoc) will link to all provinces, ensuring real-time monitoring, collating and reporting on the roll-out of the health plan, as well as the occurrence of any incidents.
  • Medical response personnel will be deployed on the most frequently used routes during the event. The 2010 Medical Volunteer Programme was also established to recruit volunteers with specialised skills in the medical fraternity to bolster the number of World Cup deployments.Free primary healthcare will be available to all spectators at official venues, including a script or referral to a health facility if necessary.
  • Dispensing machines will be situated throughout the stadiums for basic drug purchases. Twenty-four-hour pharmacies will be in place for the duration of the event.

South Africa has the necessary plans in place to deal with any major disruptions during the tournament

  • A comprehensive disaster-management plan has been developed to deal with any major disruption during the tournament.
  • All the possible risks that could cause major disruptions have been identified and the necessary risk reduction measures have been developed, tested and implemented.
  • The emergency preparedness of stadiums, fan parks and other public viewing areas are in place.
  • Disaster Management Centres in host cities and provinces will cater for any possible disasters such as floods, fires and/or any major transport or utility services disruption.

The country will deal decisively with the outbreak of diseases in line with its comprehensive disease control plan

  • Special measures have been put in place to ensure that all international ports of entry are properly monitored in terms of health related issues.
  • Public awareness information, outbreak indicators and strengthening existing disease outbreak policies and systems have been undertaken.
  • We have detailed plans for vaccinations against possible disease outbreaks and the National Institute of Communicable Disease (NICD) issues regular updates on any outbreak.
  • There is no risk of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) to visitors as the disease typically only affects ruminants such as sheep, cattle and goats.
  • The Department of Health has developed the Notifiable Medical Conditions Early Warning Surveillance System to provide daily epidemiological reports on health events of public importance.

Michael Verster Update


Missing Children SA has handed the case of Michael Verster successfully over to the South African Police Service.  It will be treated as a very sensitive case from now on.  No further information/detail is available at this stage
 
On behalf of Missing Children SA, I would like to thank you all for your help, your prayers and emails.  It was a huge success as we got countless follow-up calls/e-mails requesting confirmation that Michael is still missing.
 
We will be sure to keep you posted.
 
If you want to be kept updated on missing children in South African (be on our mailing list), please be sure to send your detail to info@missingchildren.org.za or by sms to 072 705 2407.
 
Thank you for your support.

Warmest Regards,

Judy Botes

National Coordinator - Missing Children SA
NPO:  067-095

072 647 7464 / 072 MISSING
021 950 1800 (Office)
086 580 3310 (Fax)

judy@missingchildren.org.za (E-mail)
www.missingchildren.org.za (Website)


Members of the Board

Nico Panagio (Chairman)  *  Judy Botes  (Secretary)
Jaco Boshoff (Finances)  *  Dave Rix (Legal)  *  Kieno Kammies (Media)

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Newly surfaced Kei Mouth to Morgan's Bay Road

Newly surfaced Kei Mouth to Morgan's Bay Road creates jobs for local communities

17 May 2010

The newly surfaced Kei Mouth to Morgan's Bay road is an Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) project, which created 50 employment opportunities for the local communities in the Morgan's Bay area.

The new road, a well received injection to the area, not only appealing to new tourist attraction but save on future maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of the road, will officially be launched by Roads and Public Works MEC, Pemmy Majodina tomorrow.

Surfacing the eight kilometres gravel road started in March 2009 and was completed in November last year. A total of 30 youth and 20 women were employed throughout the project, which cost R10 million. 46 inexperienced workers were trained in several trades.

The Department of Roads and Public Works has identified a need to surface all the re-gravelled inaccessible roads to reduce the maintenance costs of these roads and the demand of natural gravel material from borrow pits.

Re-gravelling gravel roads is usually done every three to six months depending on weather conditions. The surfacing of these roads is done in the shortest possible time, cost effectively, conforms to EPWP labour intensive principals and in the process skills transfer to local communities takes place.

Date: Tuesday, 18 May 2010

Time: 11h00
Venue: Morgan's Bay hall

Contact:
Jason Lloyd
Cell: 082 728 5476

Issued by: Department of Roads and Public Works, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
17 May 2010

Transnet strike


17 May 2010

The department is concerned that efforts to reach agreement through a mediated process have failed. We are also concerned at the impact that the protracted strike action will have on the economy. Transnet has, however, assured us of its continued commitment to ensuring that agreement is reached.

We therefore remain confident that both parties will continue to explore all available options in order to reach a speedy resolution to this matter, with due regard for employees, Transnet’s viability as a company, and in the interests of the South African economy as a whole.

Issued by: Department of Public Enterprises
17 May 2010
Source: Department of Public Enterprises (http://www.dpe.gov.za)

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

CEOs breakfast at the 2010 Indaba Tourism Trade Show

Address by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, the Honourable Michael Mabuyakhulu, on the occasion of the CEOs breakfast at the 2010 Indaba Tourism Trade Show

8 May 2010

Programme director
Ministers present
Captains of the industry present
Tourism stakeholders present
Dignitaries present
Ladies and gentlemen
All protocol observed

On behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we wish to start by welcoming all the delegates, in particular all the CEOs who are with us this morning, to our province and to the indaba which over the years has become one of the world's premier tourism trade shows.

We are truly honoured as the province of KwaZulu-Natal that we have, like in previous years, been given this opportunity to host this trade spectacle which has not only grown in leaps and bounds over the past years but has become a prime event in the global tourism calendar of events.

Like we have done in previous years, we want to assure all the delegates who are with us this morning that we will, during this next four days, accord to you top of the drawer treatment that has become synonymous with this province, which is renowned for being a trail blazer in coming up with innovative tourism offerings.

But more importantly, we urge you to, during your stay in this province, not only sample the myriad of tourism products that our province has to offer but also to experience the warmth and the hospitality of our people.

Programme director, this year's indaba edition comes at an exciting time in the life of our nation. It comes at a time when the soccer fever is gripping the whole of our country, with a few days left before our country hosts the biggest sporting spectacle on earth, the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup.

As part of preparing to roll out the red carpet to all the people who will descend on this province, we have not only improved our tourist offerings, but have built state of the art facilities which will serve as a proud reminder of this moment in history even long after the soccer spectacle has ended.

One of these facilities is the imposing Moses Mabhida stadium which has become one of the most recognisable features of our city, as it towers majestically below the sky line of Durban.

Programme director, we meet today with 33 days left before South Africa hosts one of the biggest sporting spectacles on earth, the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup. As you might have noticed, excitement is already in the air and our country and our people are readying themselves to welcome the world to our country.

During this sporting extravaganza, our province will be home to five qualifying nations which have selected our province as their base camp. These are Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Paraguay, Nigeria and Greece. Since this is the African world cup, we consciously went out to invite African teams to base in our province.

We expect our sisters and brothers from African countries to descend on our shores, following in the footsteps of home grown African icons like King Shaka, Inkosi Albert Luthuli, Mkabayi kaJama, King Cetshwayo and Dr John Langalibalele Dube to name but a few. This is a truly African province with inimitable heritage.

As we gather this morning, we want to send an unequivocal message to the world that KwaZulu-Natal and indeed the whole of our country is ready to deliver to the whole global community the most spectacular edition of the FIFA Soccer World Cup in history. We hope that many of you gathered here this morning will come back and be part of history when the games start.

But more importantly, we want to say that our province is more than ready to offer top of the drawer treatment to our visitors. We are ready to give the most memorable tourism experience to all the fans who will visit our province.

The reality, programme director, is that from a tourism point of view, the success of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup will be measured by how many people who will visit the country will make repeat visits and mobilise others, by word of mouth, in their native countries to visit our province and indeed South Africa.

Our ultimate objective, programme director, is to ensure that this 2010 FIFA World Cup leaves the most indelible imprint in the annals of our province's tourism history. While service excellence has always remained the hallmark of our tourism offerings, this time we have pushed the boundary of quality service.

In this regard, we are mobilising thousands of our people who are part of workers in tourism establishments who interface with tourists to pull out all the stops in ensuring that our tourists have unforgettable experiences.

Known as The Tourist Buddies, these are cadres of men and women who are working in such tourism establishments as hotels, garages, fast food outlets, etc. who are being trained to offer the most exceptional service to our tourists visiting the province.

This programme enhances customer service of all participating institutions thereby ensuring client loyalty for participating institutions. The 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup will provide a perfect platform for the tourist buddies to show what they are made of.

Programme director, this year's indaba also coincides with the single biggest development in the history of the people of this province. We have no doubt that many of you would have landed at the spanking new King Shaka International Airport when you arrived this week.

In a matter of hours, this state of the art facility will be opened our President, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma. This facility has been operational for seven days and is one of the latest additions to our collection of landmark facilities which communicate a single message: that KwaZulu-Natal wants to claim a sizeable slice of the global tourism market.

This facility will position the province as Africa's leading tourism destination, nationally and internationally and will remove barriers that may have existed previously. We have already begun implementing an aggressive strategy to woo international airlines to fly directly from overseas destinations into King Shaka International Airport.

We must say that the appetite shown by international carriers is good and we believe that it is in the interest of all those airlines who want to grow to utilise this facility because our province is a gateway to the rest of the continent and other international destinations.

Programme director, while we believe that it is only natural for provinces to compete for their fair slice of the tourism cake, such competition must not be to the detriment of other provinces. In the fast-disappearing art of wooing a partner, it is taboo to denigrate your competitor in order to win the heart of your object of desire.

This is a principle we live by and those of our colleagues who have shared international platforms with us can attest to the fact that we sell our province, our country and our continent. As the nine provinces that make up the Republic of South Africa, we are partners first before we are competitors.

As we work to woo tourists to visit our respective provinces, we must always be mindful of the fact that ultimately it is the people of South Africa who must benefit, irrespective of where they may reside. We cannot denigrate our sister provinces in order to advance our own interests.

In this regard, collaboration among provinces is the way to go. For example, our province shares boundaries with Mpumalanga, Free State and the Eastern Cape. Therefore, it is my responsibility as the MEC in KwaZulu-Natal to inform an international tourist about the wonders of our neighbouring provinces. The same goes for neighbouring countries, initially, and the rest of the countries of our continent going forward.

It is for this reason, as the province of KwaZulu-Natal, that we will this year launch an aggressive strategy to visit other neighbouring provinces to embark on tourism road shows to promote our province as the destination of choice. We expect other provinces to do the same. Healthy competition, among provinces, as we have stated, is something we all have a duty to encourage. Tourism is one sector where all of us can use our competitive advantage and all win.

Programme director, one of the biggest competitive edges of our province is its friendly weather. Unlike other parts of our country, the province of KwaZulu-Natal boasts a warm, sub tropical maritime climate with an average summer temperature of 17 to 28 degrees Celsius and an average winter temperature of 11 to 25 degrees Celsius. The sea temperature averages 21 degrees throughout the year inviting all our visitors to step into our beautiful ocean at any moment.

Precisely, because of the financial pinch that has been felt all over the world we appreciate that, tourists want maximum returns for their investment. Beach tourism is one of the few tourism sectors that are not prohibitively expensive.

Recently, together with our entity, the Natal Sharks Board, which is responsible for beach safety, and possesses world class technology to protect bathers from shark attacks, we launched a programme where we doubled our efforts to ensure bather safety, particularly around the world cup.

Our beaches have not had a fatal shark attack for the past 50 years because of our technology. Therefore, we have tourism offerings to suit all pockets and desires.

As the 2010 FIFA World Cup looms large on the horizon, we have no qualms about the fact that the spectacle will be played in winter. Our host city, Durban is within two hours of most of the province’s tourism attractions.

As all of us know, a game takes about 90 minutes. We have no doubt that in between the games tourists will spend their time exploring and experiencing the offerings of our province. These include our pristine beaches, our majestic Drakensberg Mountain, the battlefields route, exhilarating game drive experiences, magnificent aquamarine adventures and enthralling history and culture of our province. But more importantly our province is home to the people with a big heart, the Zulu people.

As the province of KwaZulu-Natal we have doubled our efforts to ensure that this province becomes one of the tourism hot spots. Although our province remains the net attractor of domestic tourism, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels. We want to increase our domestic tourism numbers while also attracting more in bound tourists.

The new King Shaka International Airport provides a firm basis for us to achieve this goal. Not only will this airport put us on the global tourism map, but it signals our unyielding intention to ensure that our province remains a destination of choice.

Our immediate and most pressing goal is to ensure that we help our country and our province to surpass the 10 million mark of tourists who visited our country last year. We say this not only because we are driven by an insatiable ambition to success, but also because we have the facilities and the capacity to become one of the most sought after tourism draw cards in the country and indeed globally.

Programme director, it is a known fact that the world is recovering from the ravaging impact of the recession. The tourism sector, which is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, was not immune from the harsh winds of the global recession.

As the world economy begins to recover slowly, we invite you to invest in our tourism sector which, we think, its potential has still to be realised. However, as government we are committed to ensure that we create a conducive environment for investment in tourism to yield favourable returns. As with all other great investments, it is those who enter the market early who enjoy the best returns. In this regard, we can only say the early bird catches the fattest worm.

However, as government, we have a responsibility to ensure that in growing our economy, we create an economy that yields opportunities for all. In this regard, we regard our policy of Broad based black economic empowerment as a critical instrument to achieve this objective.

This policy, we believe, is not an anti-thesis for growth but, on the contrary, it is a catalyst for economic prosperity and a foundation of creating shared growth which is a prerequisite for social and political stability. We will continue to pursue this policy and all other transformative policies in order to ensure that tourism benefits all of our people.

Programme director, we have no doubt that this year’s instalment of indaba will live up to its billing and that this trade show will continue to grow and that Durban will always be part of its DNA. However, we strongly believe that it is our collective responsibility to build Indaba to become a prestigious trade show for Africa and the Diaspora.

As the province of KwaZulu-Natal, we have a vision to accomplish not only this ideal but to ensure that indaba is one of the brightest stars in the galaxy of other trade shows. In order to do this, we believe that it is critical that we should resolve the issue of the permanent status of Indaba.

As we celebrate 31 years of this trade show, which has become synonymous with Durban, we believe that it is our collective duty to ensure that just like London has its World Travel Market (WTM), and Spain has its Fitur and Germany has its ITB, Indaba should become a permanent feature of Durban.

We believe that we should, working together, position Indaba to be become the mecca of tourism trade on this continent. Our state of the art facilities, coupled with our new airport, puts us in good stead to achieve this goal. But more importantly we want to turn Indaba into a tourism trade where latest tourism products are offered.

One of the growing markets in the tourism sector is the sea cruise segment. As the province we want to grow this market and ensure better utilisation of our competitive advantage which is our coastline. But critically, as a member of the secretariat of the Indian Ocean Association, we want to use our position to mobilise sister provinces and African countries located along the Indian Ocean coast line, from Cape to Tanzania, to ensure that we leverage the advantages offered by this tourism market.

In conclusion programme director; we want to thank all the captains of the tourism sector who have converged with us this morning on this edition of indaba. We wish to invite you to visit our stand where we have lined up a number of activities during the course of this trade show. We wish all of you a pleasant stay in our city and our province. We have no doubt that many of you will find time to experience the tourism offers that our province boast and that in June you will be here to make history and also to celebrate Africa's humanity with us.

I thank you.

Issued by: Department of Economic Development and Tourism, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
8 May 2010
Source: Department of Economic Development and Tourism, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government (http://www.kznded.gov.za/)

Community Television (TV) Policy workshop

Community Television (TV) Policy workshop: A strategic vehicle to unlock the potential of the local content industry Birchwood Hotel, Boksburg, Johannesburg

13 May 2010

The Department of Communications, hereby invites members of the public, industry, labour, civil society and other interested sectors to attend the Community TV policy workshop. The purpose of the workshop is to develop a broad framework that can enable the successful launch of community television in South Africa. For that purpose, the following issues will be discussed:

* Policy/Regulatory environment (digital migration, draft Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) Bill, draft local content).
* Community television as a vehicle to unlock the potential of the local content industry, by providing a window for emerging content creators, and decentralisation of content production activities in predominantly rural provinces.
* A viable business model eligible for public funding.
* Creating synergy between community TV and other tiers of broadcasting system in the Republic.

Who should attend?

The workshop is intended for policy makers, regulators, content creators, aggregators and distributors, community broadcasters, funders, provincial industrial corporations and Economic Development and related agencies and academics.

Interested persons wishing to participate at the summit should confirm their attendance with:

Mr Robert Makatu
Tel: 012 421 7014
E-mail: robertm@doc.gov.za

Linda Mazibuko
Tel: 012 427 8558
E-mail: xolo@doc.gov.za

Closing date for confirmation of attendance is 19 May 2010.

Issued by: Department of Communications
13 May 2010
Source: Department of Communications (http://www.doc.gov.za)

Monday, May 17, 2010

MEC Grant wishes grade 12 learners the best for the June examinations


17 May 2010

"Today, most of the provinces high schools will begin their internal grade 12 June examinations. I would like to extend my best wishes to each and every grade 12 learner during this period," said Western Cape Education MEC Donald Grant on Monday.

"These examinations are very important as they provide learners with the opportunity to learn more about the standards required for their final national senior certificate examinations, as well as, determine their academic performance for the year so far."

Grant said that learners who find that they are struggling in certain areas must not be discouraged.

"They can be assured that the Western Cape Education Department is doing all it can to help them improve in all subject areas," he said.

"We encourage all learners to take part in our winter holiday programmes or after school tutorial sessions. Learners can also consult their 'Tips for Success' booklets for further studying advice and planning materials.

"We encourage all grade 12 learners to make use of every single day to work hard to ensure that they pass grade 12 at the end of year, as passing matric is a prerequisite in ensuring that grade 12 learners can be become full and productive citizens."

Grant said that the Western Cape Education Department was working closely with schools to monitor the impact of the rail strike, particularly its effect on the grade 12 examinations.

"We are working with schools on case by case basis, monitoring attendance figures and disruptions to the examinations. Contingency plans will be put in place, if necessary; to ensure that grade 12 learners are able to write their examinations."

"However, initial reports indicate that there have been no major disruptions to these examinations but we continue to urge parents to arrange alternative transport to ensure that learners are able to attend school.

"The provincial government has a plan in place to deal with the strike and is working closely with taxi operators and bus companies to provide extra transport, so hopefully the impact on learners will be minimal."

Media enquiries:
Bronagh Casey
Cell: 072 7241 422
Tel: 021 467 2377

Issued by: Department of Education, Western Cape Provincial Government
17 May 2010

Regional Monetary Policy Forums


17 May 2010

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) will be hosting the first round of regional Monetary Policy Forum (MPF) meetings in May 2010.

Monetary policy has an impact on everybody. The main objective of the MPF meetings is to enhance the transparency of the bank’s monetary policy decision-making process and accountability to the public. The meetings provide a platform for public discussions on monetary policy and general economic developments.

The bank targets civic, community organisations, academic institutions, professional fraternities, the labour movement, the business community, small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), national and provincial governments and legislatures and general members of the public who have an interest in economic developments.

For bookings please contact the following people:

Gauteng
Date: 20 May 2010
Contact person: Yolanda Padayachee
Tel: 012 313 3195
E-mail: Yolanda.padayachee@resbank.co.za

Potchefstroom
Date: 21 May 2010
Contact person: Louis Motsepe
Tel: 012 313 3275
E-mail: louis.motsepe@resbank.co.za

Durban
Date: 24 May 2010
Contact person: Carol Brooks
Tel: 031 310 9300
E-mail: carol.brooks@resbank.co.za

Upington
Date: 24 May 2010
Contact person: Louis Motsepe
Tel: 012 313 3275
E-mail: louis.motsepe@resbank.co.za

Port Elizabeth
Date: 24 May 2010
Contact person: Rene Tait
Tel: 041 501 6600
E-mail: Rene.tait@resbank.co.za

Polokwane
Date: 24 May 2010
Contact person: Robertina Mbedzi
Tel: 012 313 4586
E-mail: robertina.mbedzi@resbank.co.za

Nelspruit
Date: 24 May 2010
Contact person: Samantha Henkeman
Tel: 012 313 4669
E-mail: sam.henkeman@resbank.co.za

Bloemfontein
Date: 25 May 2010
Contact person: Tania Myburgh
Tel: 051 403 7500
E-mail: Tania.myburgh@resbank.co.za

East London
Date: 25 May 2010
Contact person: Talita Myburgh
Tel: 043 707 3400
E-mail: talita.myburgh@resbank.co.za

Rustenburg
Date: 25 May 2010
Contact person: Louis Motsepe
Tel: 012 313 3275
E-mail: louis.motsepe@resbank.co.za

Cape Town
Date: 26 May 2010
Contact person: Hester Bresler
Tel: 021 481 6700
E-mail: Hester.bresler@resbank.co.za

Issued by: South African Reserve Bank
17 May 2010
Source: South African Reserve Bank (http://www.reservebank.co.za/)

Nelson Mandela Metro gives respect to families


17 May 2010

Every year on 15 May, the world comes together to commemorate the International Day of Families. In 1993, the United Nations declared this day as the day that should be set aside in respect of families.

On 14 May, Nelson Mandela Metro took part to celebrate this day as part of district celebrations set to take place across the province. The provincial event will be held in Cofimvaba, in the Chris Hani district municipality on 27 May, late this month.

Under the theme: "The impact of migration on families around the world", this day's objective was to emphasise on family preservation as a basic unit of the community. Nelson Mandela Metro is the economic powerhouse for the Eastern Cape province, as such, people migrate from rural areas and neighbouring towns to seek employment. This has a negative impact in some of the families.

Poverty, HIV and AIDS, drug and substance abuse, women and children abuse, teenage pregnancy and human trafficking are amongst many illnesses identified that disrupt unity in many families in the metro.

Walmer High School was packed to the rafters with families who attended the event to listen to advises from the speakers of the day. Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) chairperson Mr Xundu appealed to the audience to uphold "moral values".

The day's guest speaker, social welfare and development services General Manager Mr Maxegwana urged for the strengthening of relationship between focus groups and key stakeholders.

"If we strengthen the relations between focus groups and relevant stakeholders, we are on the right track to win family preservation. These focus groups need to work together with other stakeholders to help families who are faced with family challenges," Maxegwana said.

South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), South African Police Services (SAPS), Correctional Services, Moral Regeneration Movement, Family and Marriage Society of South Africa (FAMSA) and Child Line were some of the key organisations that were present in support of this prestigious day.

Issued by: Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
17 May 2010
Source: Department of Social Development, Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.socdev.ecprov.gov.za/)

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Officials detain 48 000 suspected counterfeit jerseys

South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs officials detain 48 000 suspected counterfeit jerseys

14 May 2010

South African Revenue Services customs officials operating at Durban harbour detained a container with 48 000 counterfeit South Africa football jerseys yesterday.

The consignment of suspected counterfeit jerseys has been detained for non-declaration as they were declared as pots. Tests to confirm their status of the goods will also be carried out by the lawyers representing Adidas.

The detention of the 48 000 counterfeit jersey's adds to a successful week for SARS customs officials in Durban following the arrest of a passenger at King Shaka International Airport. The individual was arrested on Wednesday after she attempted to traffic 62 bullets of pure cocaine weighing 1,28 kilograms, with an estimated street value of R1,6 million.

On Monday, the Detector Dog unit operating at the Durban Mail Centre seized, 51 kilograms of cannabis with a street value of R102 000. The narcotics, destined for the United Kingdom were declared as documents and were packed in five boxes each containing 10 bricks of the substance. The narcotic seizures have been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for further investigation.

SARS customs would like to remind the public that any suspicious business activity can be reported to our toll free Fraud and anti corruption hotline which is 0800 00 2870.

Issued by: South African Revenue Service
14 April 2010
Source: South African Revenue Service (http://www.sars.gov.za/)

A comprehensive plan to beat substance abuse


13 May 2010

When we assumed office a year ago, Cabinet identified a critical need for a comprehensive strategy to combat substance abuse in the province. We realised that our initiatives to reduce crime, provide better schooling and healthcare, improve social cohesion and create jobs through economic growth would be severely hampered unless we were able to curb drug and alcohol abuse.

This would require a different, more focused approach. The plan we are announcing today will be driven from the Premier's Office and implemented across provincial government departments in an integrated way. It is the most comprehensive policy response of its kind in the country.

The scale of drug and alcohol abuse in the province reached crisis proportions some years ago. The statistics speak for themselves:

* According to the Medical Research Council, 98 percent of tik addicts who seek help in South Africa come from the Western Cape
* Police statistics show that almost half of all South Africa's drug related crime in 2008/09 occurred in the Western Cape (52 000 cases out of 117 000)
* According to a 2004 survey, more people from the Western Cape reported using drugs than any other province
* The Western Cape has one of the highest rates of foetal alcohol syndrome in the world, affecting 75 out of every 1 000 children
* The burden of disease associated with alcohol related road accidents, violence and other trauma and illness in the Western Cape costs government in the region of R6 billion every year.

Despite spending R100 million per annum on drug and alcohol abuse programmes, the provincial governments response in the past can generally be described as ineffectual, fragmented and out of step with international best practice. Our review of the government's policies and programmes found:

* Programmes were often devised to benefit politically connected people under the guise of tackling substance abuse.

* Poor coordination between provincial government departments resulting in duplication, repeated funding of non-performing programmes and policy gaps.

* Incomplete information and poor information management systems to track substance abuse trends.

* A lack of monitoring of government project outcomes with no baselines or agreed upon units of measurement to quantify outcomes.

* No needs analysis to determine gaps and match services according to need.

* An almost complete absence of aftercare and reintegration services for people emerging from treatment, a critical gap given the average relapse rate of 60 percent associated with substance abuse.

* An untargeted and weak approach to prevention mostly focused on flawed, once-off awareness campaigns, which have not produced any measurable results, despite millions of Rand spent.

This plan aims to change this.

1. Prevention

When it comes to substance abuse, prevention is better than cure. We are introducing a greater emphasis on prevention by targeting young people with psychosocial support, over and above awareness and education. We will do this by:

* Conducting a comprehensive survey of substance abuse in our schools to prioritise schools and school districts with the most serious drug and alcohol problems. This will include drug testing in schools under our new Provincial education legislation, in close conjunction with proper social support services for learners who test positive.

* Increasing after school programmes in partnership with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community based organisations (CBOs) to keep learners off the streets in the afternoons.

* Increasing the availability of social workers by 400 percent (from 49 to 200) to serve our schools, so that principals and teachers can access their services when learners are caught with, or suspected of, abusing alcohol or drugs.

* A new focus on drug and alcohol intervention and treatment programmes in rural areas, starting with a pilot project in the Hex River valley, focused on alternative recreation and early interventions for problem drinking.

* Proceeding with the shutting down the provinces approximately 30 000 illegal shebeens, in line with the new Western Cape Liquor Act.

* Increasing road blocks to close the net on drunk drivers and drug trafficking.

* Working with the police, the National Prosecuting Authority and the Department of Justice to expand diversion programmes for less serious offenders. We intend to triple the number of PGWC probation workers serving the Western Cape courts for this purpose. This will help free up the courts to focus on dealers.

* Coordinating services by appointing a substance abuse coordinator in the Premier's Office, and establishing a legally compliant Western Cape Substance abuse forum to coordinate programmes between provincial departments, as well as with the SAPF, the NPA and other spheres of government.

2. Treatment

As well as stepping up prevention strategies, we are introducing a range of targeted treatment and other intervention programmes, which are carefully linked and coordinated to create a continuous treatment track. We will do this by:

* Establishing more youth intervention and treatment facilities, starting with Rosendal which will be opened next month, and evidence based youth outpatient treatment programmes for secondary school learners operated from school premises after school hours. The first is due to open in the next few months in Eerste Rivier.

* Establishing new community based drop-in centres to provide information to the public, screening, assessment and referral services, as well as evidence-based out-patient and aftercare services. The first of these centres will be launched in the months ahead in Somerset West, in partnership with the City of Cape Town. Another is planned for Mitchells Plain shortly thereafter.

* Introducing basic drug and alcohol intervention services in key hospital sites, beginning with GF Jooste which serves Mitchells Plain and Athlone.

* Setting up an information technology (IT) database to track people who enter provincial treatment or intervention services so that we can record the level of treatment received and monitor progress once they have exited a formal treatment programme. In the past, only the number of individuals who entered treatment was tracked, not how many were successfully treated and reintegrated into society.

* Increasing the availability of aftercare services for people who have completed rehabilitation programmes. These kinds of services are virtually non-existent in the Western Cape at present, but are crucial to reduce relapse rates.

* Building the capacity of social developments psychosocial support services by recruiting an additional 800 qualified social workers and social auxiliary workers. We are working with Western Cape universities to develop a postgraduate diploma in substance addiction to start in 2011, with bursaries funded by the provincial government for new recruits. Modules of this diploma will also form the basis for training of our existing staff.

* Increasing funding to non-profit organisations in the sector with a proven record of providing quality services, while reducing or cutting funding to consistently non-performing programmes.

* Establishing an independent professional credentialing association, in line with international best practice, to assist the industry to improve the quality of its services and assist the provincial government in identifying and funding suitably capacitated service providers.

The plan outlined today is the most comprehensive governmental response to substance abuse in the country. But its implementation will not alleviate the drug crisis in the Western Cape overnight.

It will take at least five years of hard work and dedication from this government, other spheres of government, our social partners, communities and every individual to turn the tide. Every citizen must play their part and take personal responsibility for the lifestyle choices they make.

Media enquiries:
Trace Venter
Cell: 083 229 2539

Rob MacDonald
Cell: 084 977 9888

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Western Cape Provincial Government
13 May 2010
Source: Western Cape Provincial Government (http://www.capegateway.gov.za/)

Put fun back into mathematics


14 May 2010

In partnership with the Eastern Cape Department of Education and Grahamstown branch Association for Mathematics Education in South Africa (AMESA), the Rhodes University hosted an afternoon of mathematics activities themed around the 2010 FIFA World Cup for learners from schools around the Makana municipality recently.

Rhodes University Mathematics Education Project (RUMEP) organiser Zonia Jooste said the project was aimed at changing the learners' general perception that mathematics "is a dull and non-stimulating subject".

"This negative view of mathematics is very often taken (from primary) right up to the secondary level of schooling as many learners have fear for the subject", she said.

Themed around the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, Jooste said the project's intention was about showcasing to both learners and educators the invariable link of mathematics with all people's everyday living and activities irrespective of social differences.

Jooste said she hope that teachers would do away with the usual rigidity when teaching mathematics in the classroom by adopting practical and innovative ways of the subject.

"The purpose is to show them (learners and educators) that mathematics is a human activity practised by all cultures and that it is in everything that we do," she said.

During the afternoon, the learners became involved in activities which Jooste described as an effort to encourage them to enjoy mathematics again.

"For instance, by looking at measurements, learners will be able to work out the area and perimeter of soccer field and see the relevance of maths in our daily lives," she said.

Adding other benefits of the exercise, Jooste said by using maths in an environment familiar to the learners, which in this instance is soccer; it enables them to link the geometry side of mathematics to the major event.

As learners were invited to look at the flags of the world and to identify the symmetry of these flags and their colour combinations, RUMEP representative Fezeka Mkhwane said: "the idea was for learners to discover and realise that mathematics is everywhere around us".

Another activity that was carried out required learners to work with big numbers to calculate the construction costs and the carrying capacity of the five newly built 2010 soccer stadiums thus creating awareness over the different sizes of the soccer fields.

Tantyi Primary School Educator Xoliswa Mzizi described the afternoon as an "eye opening experience to me as a teacher".

"I think it's time we let go of being rigid when teaching mathematics by bringing more fun so that children can be free from the fear of the subject," she said.

Nompumelelo Quntu also a primary school educator deemed the afternoon as an "innovative approach" at mathematics.

"For me, it means that I can take them outside the classroom to bring more fun and practicality to the studying of mathematics," she said.

Issued by: Department of Education, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
14 May 2010
Source: Department of Education, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
(http://www.ecdoe.gov.za/)

North West Department of Health and Social Development partners


with Soul City Institute
14 May 2010

Soul City Institute, in partnership with North West Department of
Health and Social Development, will officially launch OneLove this Saturday, 15 May 2010.

This is a historic partnership focusing on HIV prevention through reduction of Multiple Concurrent Partners (MCP).

MEC Rebecca Kasienyane will deliver a key note address to launch the campaign, which will be combined with a conference to mark the International Day for Families to be held in Mmabatho.

OneLove: talk, respect, protect is a campaign aimed at reducing the practice of having concurrent sexual relationships. This follows extensive research done by Soul City Institute and it regional partners from 10 countries which found that the practice of multiple sexual partnerships is one of the key drivers of new HIV infections in several southern African countries.

The campaign aims to shift social norms and reinforces positive behaviours without blaming people who are behaving in risky ways. John Molefe, Soul City Institute's senior executive for marketing and public affairs explains, “It`s role, models safer sexual behaviour, and challenges men and women to change their behaviour to live a safer and happier life. OneLove also challenges gender stereotypes and cultural norms that reinforce having more than one partner and that fuel the AIDS epidemic.”

OneLove activities in North West will include community training on HIV and AIDS and activities aimed at youth, community leaders, couple and communities. Molefe continues, “We are thrilled to be working with the Department of Health and Social Development on this important campaign.

In line with our edutainment formula, we will be working closely with local radio stations, as well as providing training and material, fostering and hosting a number of community dialogues and four district campaigns.

The campaign is further strengthened by Soul City’s 9th television drama, a story about an ordinary family that was affected by the actions of the father who had multiple partners. The show attracted over 6 million viewers per episode on SABC 1. There is also a radio drama series on the nine SABC African language stations, community radio talk shows, radio ads and community dialogues around the country.

You are invited to attend the conference as follows:
Date: Saturday, 15 May 2010
Venue: Mmabatho Convention Centre
Time: 09h00

For further information please contact:
Despina Harito
Tel: 011 452 1840
Cell: 084 453 1755
E-mail: despina@onyxmarketing.co.za

For enquiries about the conference, please contact:
Tebogo Lekgethwane
Cell: 082 929 9958
E-mail: tlekgethwane@nwpg.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Health and Social Development, North West Provincial Government
14 May 2010

Friday, May 14, 2010

National Planning Commission on the budget vote of The Presidency

Address by Honourable Trevor A Manuel, MP, Minister in The Presidency: National Planning Commission on the budget vote of The Presidency

12 May 2010

Mr Speaker
His Excellency, President J G Zuma
Deputy President, KP Motlanthe
Honourable ministers
Honourable members
Ladies and gentlemen

The National Planning Commission held its inaugural meeting on Monday and Tuesday this week. It has taken us a long time to get to this point, a process that started with our appointment as ministers last May. In my first budget vote speech last year, I outlined the need for a planning commission, what a planning commission could do, what role it could play in the policy arena and how it could contribute towards both better planning and greater coherence in government.

In August, we brought to this house a draft Green Paper on National Strategic Planning. Following an extensive debate and public consultation process, we released a revised Green Paper in January this year.

Honourable Speaker, through this process, we have arrived at a consensus on the nature and type of planning commission we seek, on the role of the commission, on the type of commissioners and broadly on the areas that the planning commission would cover. Allow me to summarise what we have agreed to. We have established a National Planning Commission in the first instance, to attempt to produce a unifying vision and strategic plan for the country that has broad buy-in across all sectors of society and yet retains the ability to confront the critical trade-offs and challenges we face over the next twenty years. The work of the planning commission is meant to sharpen the focus of government, to use a long term lens to obtain greater policy coherence in government, to independently and critically appraise our policies and conduct in-depth research on how best we can achieve our objectives.

We have chosen a commission of external commissioners, comprising largely of experts, tasked with advising government on issues relating to the long term development trajectory of the country.

In January this year, the president invited the public to nominate people to the National Planning Commission. We received an overwhelming response with 1280 nominees. The calibre of the people nominated was exceptionally high; clearly the opportunity to participate in so great a calling saw the nomination of some of our country’s best minds.

Besides the fact that there are hundreds of very skilled and experienced South Africans, the nomination process also showed the willingness of these smart and skilled South Africans to play a role in shaping our collective future. I would like to thank every person who allowed him-or herself to be nominated. The sheer scale and quality presented the President with a daunting challenge to select a few.

After careful consideration of the list of nominees and the expertise required on the commission, the president announced the names of 25 commissioners on 30 April 2010. Amongst the 25 is Mr Cyril Ramaphosa who has been appointed as deputy chairperson and who brings knowledge and experience to the commission that has helped shape the trade union movement, our Constitution, this Parliament, the business sector and NGO’s.

The participation of commissioners and the quality of discussions at our first meeting earlier this week confirmed unequivocally that we not only have amongst the nation’s top experts in a variety of disciplines but that we also have a single team of highly motivated people of the highest integrity who want to operate together as a single commission, regardless of who nominated them. All share a common commitment to see South Africa becoming a better place in the future, a country that we will be increasingly proud of as a place where we want our children to live and thrive in.

In welcoming the commissioners yesterday, the President pledged the full support of Cabinet and the Presidency for the work of the commission. He went on to say, and I quote,

* The mandate of the commission is to take a broad, cross cutting, independent and critical view of South Africa, to help define the South Africa we seek to achieve in 20 years time and to map out a path to achieve those objectives.
* The Commission is expected to put forward solid research, sound evidence and clear recommendations for government.
* The Commission will also work with broader society to draw on the best expertise, consult the relevant stakeholders and help to shape a consensus on what to do about the key challenges facing us.
* The National Planning Commission will revitalise the work of government. By drawing on the best available expertise the Commission will be able to identify and confront challenges head-on. The Commission need not be apologetic, it must act with frankness.
* Government has often taken a sectoral and short-term view that has hampered development. Taking a long-term and independent view will add impetus, focus and coherence to our work.
* This will no doubt lead to an improved performance in government. By involving wider society in its work it will rally the nation around a common vision.
* Vision 2025 will muster the views of all South Africans so that we can all participate in the realisation of the South Africa we want to live in.
* The establishment of the National Planning Commission is our promise to the people of South Africa that we are building a state that will grow the economy, reduce poverty and improve the quality of life of our citizens. South Africa is divided into two countries, one of extreme poverty and the other of extreme riches; we need to solve this problem.”

We are immensely honoured, humbled and privileged to be given such a broad mandate and such strong encouragement at the point where we start our work. The President went on to say that the commission is not a commission of any political party. It is a commission of all of South Africa, there to represent all citizens. He appealed to the commissioners to be brave and bold in criticising government, without fear or favour, to do this is a way that helps build a better society, free of poverty and inequality.

It is a measure of brave and bold leadership to give such an enthusiastic mandate to a grouping outside of Cabinet. On behalf of all of the National Planning commission, I would like to thank you, Mr President.

Honourable members, the commissioners were at one in saying that Parliament should play a role in facilitating a dialogue both on the vision and on the national plan. Drawing on the positive role played by Parliament in getting consensus around the Green Paper, we are of the view that Parliament is suitably placed to bring together diverse views from all walks of society to enrich the work of the commission and of government in general. I will engage with the Speaker and Chairperson of the NCOP to explore ways of facilitating this process on a permanent basis.

Our intention, as the commission, is to produce a draft vision and a national plan for Cabinet within 18 months and we will, on an ongoing basis, produce reports on cross cutting issues that have an impact on our long term development. We will also respond to specific requests from Cabinet from time to time.

At an administrative level, we are in the process of developing the capacity to support the work of the commission. We are building a small, professional and capable secretariat that would add value to both the work of the commission and to the Office of the Presidency in general.
We should remind ourselves that in trying to do better, in working differently, we have two new ministers in The Presidency. A Minister in the Presidency responsible for the National Planning Commission is the one and Minister Chabane, who is tasked with Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, is the other. At both ministerial level and at the level of the secretariat, we are working closely with the Ministry and Department of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation. Our work is interconnected in several respects.

We will support their work in shaping priorities, in developing indicators and in producing evidence of what is working and what is not working and similarly, they will support our work through the role that they play in developing outcomes, performance agreements and delivery agreements.

In conclusion, Honourable Speaker, I would like to thank both the President and the Deputy President for the support that they have given us in our work over the past year. We know that once we get into the nuts and bolts of our work, we will call on their support and inspiration more frequently. I also wish to thank the staff in the ministry and in the presidency for the hard work that they do in making our country a better place.

Thank you.

Issued by: The Presidency
12 May 2010
Source: The Presidency (http://www.thepresidency.gov.za/)

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