In conversation with one of the world’s greatest writers, Wole Soyinka

29 Jul 2010

The Department of Arts and Culture, the National Library of South Africa and the Publishers' Association of South Africa invite media to attend a public conversation event with Wole Soyinka, the first Nobel Laureate in Literature in Africa. 

This great opportunity to interact with one of Africa's world acclaimed greatest writers has come about because he kindly accepted the invitation to attend the Cape Town Book Fair this year.

In 1994, he was designated United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Goodwill Ambassador for the promotion of African Culture, human rights, freedom of expression, media and communication.

Venue: CTICC - Room 2.61 - 2.63
Date: Saturday, 31 July 2010
Time:14h00 - 15h30

Seats are limited, please confirm your attendance early (by morning of 29^th July) wit:

Premi Appalraju
Cell: 082 903 6778

Issued by: Department of Arts and Culture
29 Jul 2010

Department of Transport Prague scholarship bearing fruit

29 Jul 2010

With the 2010 final Grade 12 examinations only a few months away, Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has called on learners to pursue careers in the Transport sector.

“Transport plays a facilitating role in the global economy and holds a central role in driving the social and economic development of any country. Furthermore, it facilitates economic development and growth as well as social activities through movement, bringing people and goods together. Transport creates valuable links between regions and economic activities, between people and the rest of the world.

“Transportation as a field of learning and a career has a variety of opportunities. It is an area of various choices for entrepreneurs. Whilst everyone experiences mobility in their daily life, it is even more rewarding to have an understanding of the various modes of transport as well as scope and types of professions in the transport field. With the 2010 final Grade 12 examinations only a few months away, we call upon learners to seriously consider careers in the transport sector,” said Minister Ndebele.

Seventeen students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds across South Africa, on a scholarship sponsored by the Department of Transport, were recruited and enrolled to undertake studies in Transport Infrastructure and Engineering, Informatics in Transport, Transport Logistics and Marketing and Transport Management at the University of Pardubice in Prague, Czechoslovakia.

The students, in their first year of transport related studies departed for Czechoslovakia in October and commenced with their studies in November 2008, are currently on vacation for a period of two months from July to September 2010. In 2007, the Department of Transport and the government of the Republic of Czechoslovakia established a close and strategic working academic partnership. This partnership was undertaken as part of the Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa (AsgiSA) and the Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisition (Jipsa) to address and build human capacity with the objective of improving the required skills and expertise within the South African transport sector. Transport infrastructure, engineering, technology and logistics were identified as strategic areas that would contribute towards addressing prevailing industry capacity demands.

As part of their training, a workshop has been arranged for the students to engage with senior managers in the department and government officials to welcome them back as well as afford them an opportunity to raise key issues and challenges that might require the department to pay attention to.

The department has further arranged practical work experience sessions at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) to afford the students the opportunity to link theory and practice as well as benchmark against other transportation systems.

Department of Transport Director-General Mr George Mahlalela will deliver the keynote address during this engagement with South African students undertaking various transport related studies in the Republic of Czechoslovakia. The workshop will be attended by senior officials from national, provincial and municipal government.

During his address, the Director-General will outline the department’s commitment towards educational initiatives and programmes aimed at enhancing the acquisition of skills and expertise necessary in the transport sector.

Details of the workshop are as follows:
Date: Friday, 30 July 2010
Venue: 159 Struben Street, Pretoria (Department of Transport offices, Indaba Boardroom)
Time: 08H30

Members of the media are invited to attend and there will be opportunities to engage and take photos with the students.

Attendance confirmations by 15h00 on Thursday, 29 July 2010 with Sello Tshipi on 073 4986722 or TshipiA@dot.gov.za or Mthunzikazi Mbungwana on 0726451792 or MbungwaM@dot.gov.za

Productivity and competitiveness needed to boost economic growth and job creation

New report assesses South Africa's Investment Climate: Greater emphasis on productivity and competitiveness needed to boost economic growth and job creation, Johannesburg

29 Jul 2010

South Africa’s business environment compares favourably to that of its peer group of upper- to middle-income economies globally. This is according to the findings of the report, titled ‘South Africa: Second Investment Climate Assessment – Improving the Business Environment for Job Creation and Growth’.

The findings call for greater efforts to raise the market share of efficient, high-performing enterprises, enhancing productivity, and increase export competitiveness for job-led, sustainable economic growth. The report was released by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr Rob Davies and World Bank Country Director for South Africa, Ruth Kagia, at a ‘Development Dialogue’, which took place at the Kopanong Conference Centre in Benoni, Ekurhuleni, today.

The report, which was prepared by a World Bank team, in collaboration with the South African Department of Trade and Industry (the dti), presents the results of a 2008 survey of 1 056 manufacturing industries, 68% of which are located in Johannesburg, 14% in Cape Town, 12% in Durban, and six percent in Port Elizabeth. Of these, 231 businesses were revisits from an earlier 2003 survey.

The report provides survey-based analytical advice to policy-makers, business leaders and civil society, with a view to strengthening business competitiveness in South Africa. The report’s key messages, among others, are that:

• South Africa could improve productivity and competitiveness by increasing the market share of efficient producers. Given the high concentration of South African industry, this requires further efforts to enhance competition through more activist and innovative policies.
• Investments in employee training in small, medium and micro sized enterprises (SMMEs) should be increased with better targeted government support.
• South Africa could do more to improve access to finance by SMMEs and support productive informal enterprises.

"The findings of the report are very interesting, particularly where they refer to the business environment in South Africa the ease of doing business, regulatory framework, and all the different steps that need to be gone through when one is doing business in this country which actually compare favourably to those of other peer countries. South Africa has scored particularly well in this regard. We take note, as government, that this is one of our competitive advantages as a country.

 It is something that we want to preserve and in fact improve upon because it’s clearly important. Furthermore, we acknowledge the challenges identified in the report, such as small business development and access to finance, and our department is working to address the challenges. We welcome the report as a tool of dialogue, discussion and debate,” said Minister Davies.

 “Improving the investment climate in South Africa is critical for economic growth and job creation. For Africa’s largest economy, a better business environment will generate large spillovers benefits across the African continent. The challenge is to identify bottlenecks and take concrete actions,” added Kagia.

For the purpose of the survey, the comparator group of emerging economies is Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Malaysia, and Thailand. These countries are natural peers of South Africa, as all are relatively high-performing, resource-rich middle-income countries, which have experienced significant export-driven industrialisation.

World Bank Senior Economist, Taye Mengistae, who is also the lead author of the report, said “the report’s findings provide a wealth of information to inform policy-making, for achieving shared and sustainable growth.”

Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe
Cell: 073 522 6801
E-mail. MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za

Mmenyane Seoposengwe
World Bank
Tel: 012 348 8895
E-mail:. mseoposengwe@worldbank.org

Source: Department of Trade and Industry

Issued by: Department of Trade and Industry
29 Jul 2010

President Zuma to attend the National Farm Workers' Summit

29 Jul 2010

President Jacob Zuma will tomorrow, Friday, 30 July 2010 attend the
National Farm Workers' Summit in Somerset West, Western Cape.

The summit is the culmination of similar forums which have been held in
the provinces this year to address the working and living conditions of
farm workers.

It is an opportunity for farm workers and their representatives to
present their views on the challenges they face in their working and
living environment.

The summit will consolidate these views and the information obtained in
the provincial summits into a comprehensive policy to improve the
conditions of farm workers.

Various government departments are involved in the summit, including
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; Labour; Health; Education; Housing;
and Social Development.

Details of the summit are as follows:

Date: Friday, 30 July 2010
Time: 10h00
Venue: Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, Western Cape

Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148

Issued by: The Presidency
29 Jul 2010

First phase of Customs Modernisation programme set for roll-out from October 2010

29 Jul 2010

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs will begin implementing the first phase of a multi-year modernisation programme aimed at significantly enhancing both the efficiency and security of the supply chain from October 2010.

The modernisation of customs, which was announced at the end of 2009 with the release of new draft Customs Legislation which will facilitate the improvements, comes in the wake of SARS's tax modernisation initiatives over the past three years which have changed the face of the income tax process and way in which income tax returns are submitted and processed.

As with the transformation of our pay as you earn (PAYE) and income tax systems and processes, customs will be moving from a complex, partially paper based and labour intensive environment to a simplified, automated and more cost efficient one.

Service and enforcement (in line with the compliance model) are also pivotal to the modernisation programme, as we seek to divert resources into more value adding activities i.e. service for the compliant and enforcement for the non-compliant.

SARS has spent the past year working in partnership with selected stakeholders, including major technology players in the customs arena, in developing and designing the solution.

To help Customs align its operations to international standards and benchmarks, and to provide stakeholders with improved service, SARS has selected a number of technology solutions to complement various aspects of the electronic commerce, clearance processing, inspection, revenue collection, and case resolution aspects of the customs process. The integration of all technology platforms will provide customs users with a seamless interface to information relevant to his or her transaction or case.

To this end, all customs information requirements have been aligned with version three of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) customs data model. All customs clearances will in the near future be processed via a single declaration engine.

In line with the Kyoto convention, SARS will be introducing clearance by customs procedure as well as a variety of expedited and simplified customs clearance procedures. These alone will differentiate between current and future service offerings to the trader.

The modernisation programme will also ensure efficient processes, systems and organisational structures that improve the facilitation of trade and provide an improved service offering from expert Customs officers.

Some of the key modernisation initiatives:

1. Electronic Supporting Documents: For customs stakeholders, SARS will be extending the facility for traders to electronically submit any supporting document required by customs for the finalisation of a transaction or case.
   
   Various third party software providers will be offering tailored facilities within their applications to facilitate this requirement as an integral part of their solutions. This will contribute greatly towards reducing paper overload and the burden on the trader or broker to physically deliver them to SARS.
   
   
2. Enforcing mandatory electronic communication with traders, customs brokers, carriers and release agents: Since the introduction of electronic data interchange (EDI) a few years ago, the uptake of EDI by the trade has grown remarkably.
   
   Customs now receives in excess of 90 percent of clearance declarations electronically. In October 2009 and April 2010 SARS introduced the mandatory submission of clearance transactions electronically to all traders in the republic and BLNS countries respectively.
   
   Coupled with electronic receipt of declarations, Customs has also introduced electronic release messages to obviate the need for paper-based customs release notifications.
   
   
3. Implementing risk based customs assessment: The new way of working will provide a risk based automated facility which will "push" the highest risk declaration at any given time to the assessment officer. This improves integrity of the customs process and will ensure that any opportunity for gain by either an internal user or collusion between internal and external parties is negated.
   
   
4. Single Registration: During the first quarter of 2011, SARS is introducing a single registration application process for all SARS's stakeholders. This means that taxpayers, traders and practitioners will have a single interface to SARS for all their client needs.
   
   Once introduced, clients can either register electronically or they will have the choice to go to any SARS office and physically register for any customs products, for example, customs clients can apply at taxpayer service branches for application to register or license with SARS.
   
   The application will be completed on a single integrated SARS form known as the SR-1 or single registration form. Like other tax applications, it is based on the dynamic Adobe™ form technology that allows the form to dynamically structure the information required by SARS based on the forms wizard, which the applicant will be required to complete.
   
   
5. Preferred Trader pilot programme: Part of SARS's segmentation approach involves Customs redefining its accreditation programme to provide greater benefits for those demonstrating greater compliance.
   
   SARS is currently piloting a preferred trader initiative with about 30 importers and exporters that requires the client to perform a self assessment of their business systems and compliance with customs' formalities.
   
   Upon validation of their compliance by customs audit, these traders will receive customised services and benefits respective to their standing. The intention is to roll out this initiative to all qualifying traders.
   
   
6. Enhancing customs risk engine (CRE): In addition to goods declarations, the customs risk engine now accommodates cargo declarations. Risk management lies at the heart of the customs process; the inclusion of cargo reports not only improves customs risk assessment but provides also an additional form of supply chain reconciliation between what is declared and what is physically landed.
   
   Effective risk management within Customs will not only rely on developing an enhanced customs risk engine but also the introduction of an enhanced trader management system.
   
   
7. Centralisation of capabilities: Customs has identified activities, particularly administrative, risk and audit tasks which can be conducted in a central location away from ports of entry. These offices will be called Trade Administration Centres.
   
   Customs will also be introducing "centres of excellence", comprising specialists in the areas of tariff, valuation and origin, which will also operate independently from ports of entry.
   
   
8. Integration of the SARS contact centre: The scope of the contact centres will be increased to accommodate customs queries through both the SARS trained call centre agents, as well as the IVR.
   
   A pilot was held in Pretoria during April this year, with reasonable success with clients. Following the pilot, all Customs queries to branch offices will be routed through the SARS call centre.
   
   
9. Release one of the Customs Modernisation programme: Until now, Customs has operated 37 diverse systems. A new integrated customs solution is being introduced to standardise the processing and validation of customs declarations across all modes.

The first phase will include the processing of all goods declarations based on new customs procedure codes as provided for in the draft Customs Control Bill. The customs bills are expected to be approved by Parliament towards the end of 2010.

Customs will further leverage its internal systems and user capabilities on technologies currently in use by SARS's tax division.

For more information please contact:
Adrian Lackay
Cell: 083 388 2580

Issued by: South African Revenue Service
29 Jul 2010

Equity transgressors provoke Labour Minister

29 Jul 2010

Tougher penalties and more stringent measures lie ahead for recalcitrant employment equity employers, Labour Minister, Membathisi Mdladlana told a media briefing in Pretoria today (Thur).

He was speaking at the launch of the 10^th Commission for Employment Equity (CEE) report.

Clearly impatient, the Minister said he was getting tired of “endless excuses’’ that try to justify as to why the law was not being implemented as fast as required.

“We want to shorten the process around fining those who do not comply by being able to fine them on the spot. As to the size of the fines, there is talk around looking at a percentage of turnover in order to make those large employers to feel the pain,’’ he said.

The Minister said he has tabled the amendment in Cabinet after which the Bills would be put for public comment. These will then be followed by the Nedlac process.

The report showed that very little progress had been made in terms of transforming the workplace, with white males still dominating senior and top management structures particularly in the private sector.

Mpho Nkeli, chairperson of the CEE, said apart from the general need to increase the black group, figures showed that “there is a drastic requirement to raise the representation of females, especially African and Coloured in the private sector.

She said the public sector on the other hand, was more representative in terms of race and gender than the private sector.

In her foreword to the report, Nkeli said: “The recommended changes to the Employment Equity Act will drive better compliance and introduce severe consequences for companies that flout the law.’’

The Minister also expressed his disappointment at the failure by many institutions – both private and public – to appoint people with disabilities.

Issued by:
Mzobanzi Jikazana
Cell: 083 641 2355

 

Issued by: Department of Labour
29 Jul 2010

The annual South African Revenue Service (SARS) Amakhwezi Awards

Address by the Deputy President, Kgalema Motlanthe, at the annual South African Revenue Service (SARS) Amakhwezi Awards, Council for Scientific and industrial Research (CSIR) conference centre, Pretoria

23 Jul 2010

Programme director
Finance Minister, Mr Pravin Gordhan
Deputy Finance Minister, Mr Nhlanhla Nene
SARS Commissioner, Mr Oupa Magashula
Employees of the South African Revenue Services
Ladies and gentlemen

I thank the organisers for inviting me to participate in this occasion during which your institution recognises performance excellence amongst employees of the South African Revenue Service.

All of us can agree that there is wide acknowledgment and appreciation amongst South Africans of SARS's contribution to supporting, financing and helping build our democracy.

The capacity to collect revenue from citizens, both individuals and corporates, to finance the provision of public services is one of the key defining features of a stable and capable state.

The ability of a country to borrow from the capital markets is linked to its capacity to collect taxes. As any good banker will tell you, one of the key considerations when evaluating an application for a loan is whether there is ability on the borrower to pay back.

Programme director,

Through SARS's journey over the past 13 years as an integrated revenue and customs administration, we witnessed this institution setting new benchmarks in organisational performance.

Furthermore, this organisation has contributed to a growing culture of tax compliance through persuasive tax collection from our people. We also observed that over the years you have delivered more than promised.

While doing so, you have also managed to demonstrate what a service driven public institution should, and indeed can, look like.

You have also demonstrated how a public institution can break the bureaucratic mould and transform itself into a responsive institution. Indeed you have also showed the country what is possible when ordinary citizens are treated in a professional manner.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The recent success of the 2010 FIFA World Cup has provided a similar example of how our public sector can work together across silos to deliver a world class event.

The hosting of the world cup and the efficiency demonstrated by SARS this far highlight how the public service can work better and smarter.

We should ask ourselves if public servants work beyond the call of normal duty, as they did during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, what would stop such service excellence becoming a norm in the delivery of general public services.

The results of cooperation within government departments is a watermark and a milestone of how to put in practice the kind of cooperative governance as envisaged in our Constitution.

Should this new momentum become the ethos especially with regards to service to the poor, whose circumstances leave them no option but to rely solely on the state for education, health, security, and shelter?

Programme director,

I am told that SARS introduced the Amakhwezi recognition programme in 2007 to reward individuals and teams for their exceptional performance when they respond above and beyond the call of duty.

These exceptional individuals and teams understand their mandate which is not merely about collecting tax revenues, but contributing to support the development of our country.

Under the capable leadership of Ministers Pravin Gordhan, Trevor Manuel and Nhlanhla Nene, SARS has laid a foundation for a strong and sustainable revenue system by building an institution with a reputation for integrity, fairness and effectiveness. But, as with the task of promoting tax compliance, maintaining this reputation is a continuous process.

One way in which we as government can leverage the investments made in SARS, especially in terms of technology, is by expanding the use of your systems for other parts of government where synergy exists.

This has already been demonstrated to great effect in the cooperation between SARS and the Department of Home Affairs in the development of an enhanced movement control system ahead of the world cup.

Ensuring value for money for taxpayers requires of us as government to better utilise the resources at our disposal, reducing duplication and capitalising on compatibility.

Distinguished guests,

It is this challenge that Commissioner Magashula, your executive team and the next generation of leaders will surely take further within this institution.

I trust we will continue to have a capable, credible and effective SARS to walk that journey with us and based on the quality of the people in this room tonight, I have every confidence in the future.

Congratulations to all the winners of tonight's Amakhwezi Awards.

Thanks to you and to SARS for helping to make South Africa a country alive with possibilities!

I thank you.

Source: The Presidency

Issued by: The Presidency
23 Jul 2010

Ms Hazel Jenkins, leaves for China

Premier of the Northern Cape, Ms Hazel Jenkins, leaves for China

26 Jul 2010

The Premier of the Northern Cape, Ms Hazel Jenkins, who is also a National Executive Committee (NEC) member of the ANC, will leave on a twenty-two NEC member delegation led by the National Chairperson Baleka Mbete on a Chinese educational trip.

This visit aims to educate the delegation around the Chinese planning model. The educational trip to China is scheduled to take place from 25 July to 8 August 2010.

MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, John Block has been sworn in as Acting Premier from 25 July to 7 August 2010.

Enquiries:
Mafu Davids
Cell: 082 316 6000

Source: Office of the Premier, Northern Cape Provincial Government

Issued by: Northern Cape Office of the Premier
26 Jul 2010

Correctional Services advertises 380 critical vacancies today

25 Jul 2010

The Department of Correctional Services has lifted a two year moratorium
on filling of vacancies by advertising 380 critical vacancies today, 25
July 2010.

The advertisement of the vacancies is a first and major step towards
addressing vacancies in the Department of Correctional Services
following the lifiting of the moratorium instituted about two years ago
to address rocketing personnel expenditure and to prevent unmanaged over
expenditure emanating from essentially the implementation of the
Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) for correctional officials.

Due to the OSD related budget pressures the department overspent its
budget in the 2008/09 financial year by nearly half an billion rands.
The 380 posts are advertised in three Sunday newspapers and on the
departmental website http://www.dcs.gov.za as well as on the public
Service and Administration website http://www.dpsa.gov.za.

Correctional Services National Commissioner, Mr Tom Moyane says funds
for the filling of essentially supervisory, middle management and
professional positions were sourced from the natural attrition of staff
in the department. He said annually the Department of Correctional
Services loses an average of 1 200 staff members due to terminations
that include resignations, deaths or dismissals. In total Correctional
Services' approved establishment has 41 500 posts and currently has a
staff complement of 40 676, showing a two percent vacancy rate.

Commissioner Moyane said "the post advertisements carried in this
weekend's newspapers are just a beginning of a sustained effort to
ensure that Correctional Services has appropriate human resources to
deliver on its services delivery targets."Among the key senior positions
to be filled are medical doctors, pyschologists, nurses and Heads of
Correctional Centres. About R70 million will be used to fill these
vacancies.

National Commissioner Moyane has given a directive to the management to
start and complete the recruitment process within a period of two
months, a real turn around considering the department's normal average
of three to six months of recruitment processes. To achieve the
turnaround key elements of the recruitment will be decentralised with
Regional Commissioners and Chief Deputy Commissioners being champions of
the process.

The urgency to fill these vacancies was discussed at an Executive
Management meeting held earlier during the week. The meeting was
attended by both the Minister of Correctional Services Ms Nosiviwe
Mapisa-Nqakula as well as National Commissioner Moyane.

Enquiries:
Manelisi Wolela
Cell: 0836260304

Issued by: Department of Correctional Services
25 Jul 2010

regulations to give direction on the distribution of National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund

Minister publishes regulations to give direction on the distribution of National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund

21 Jul 2010

To improve the efficiency and optimal distribution of the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund, the Minister of Trade and Industry (the dti), Dr Rob Davies has in terms of Section 60 of the Lotteries Act, 1997, (Act No. 57 of 1997), issued regulations that provide direction and procedures to the Distribution Agencies. These regulations also streamline the processing of applications by the National Lotteries Board from application point to payment in order to make it more transparent and efficient. These regulations come into effect on 30 July 2010.

In the past years a number of concerns were raised by the public and beneficiaries of the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund that the funds do not reach the beneficiaries on time and that there are no effective measures in place for expedient distribution of these funds. Over and above this, there were concerns that the funds are not being distributed to development of communities that really need them. It is important that the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund be distributed in a manner that addresses developmental needs in rural, poor and under-privileged communities

The minister has therefore directed that at least 50% of the total available for distribution must go to priorities that include expansion of home based care services, development of facilities for disabled persons and substance rehabilitation and/or treatment services, sports and recreation for talent development, education designed for early childhood, adult literacy and vocational training. These funds must benefit rural development and educational needs in a meaningful manner.

Having considered the accessibility of the fund to smaller non-governmenatal organisations (NGOs) and community based organisations (CBOs), the minister has decided to do away with the compulsory requirement for first time applicants to produce audited financial statements when applying for funds. This requirement was onerous and excluded a number of deserving beneficiaries.

Organisations that received funding before from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund will still be required to produce such audited statement as required in the Lotteries Act, “in order to minimise the risk that may exist with the removal of this requirement, thorough checks will be done on applicants, including site visits and reference checks. In this regard, specific attention will be given to organisations that have a history of failing to account for funds received from other donors and those whose members were previously involved in misusing donor funds. Any misuse of funds intended for development of communities will not be tolerated. We call upon the National Lotteries Board and the Distribution Agencies to deal severely with people found to be misusing funds, including referring them to the police for appropriate action to be taken.” said Ms Zodwa Ntuli, Deputy Director-General, Consumer and Corporate Regulation Division.

Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe
Tel: 012 394 1650
Cell: 078 5226801
E-mail: MSMedupe @thedti.gov.za

Source: Department of Trade and Industry

Issued by: Department of Trade and Industry
21 Jul 2010

Salaries in the SANDF have never been better"

26 Jul 2010

The Sunday Times yesterday, 25 July 2010 carried a story titled “Defence pay may threaten South African security”. The story creates an impression that the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Lindiwe Sisulu is in possession of a report submitted by the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission that outlines salary concerns in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and nothing is being done about it and as a result it threatens “national security”.

The truth is that salaries have never been better in the SANDF, following the 1 December 2009 adjustment announced by the Commander in Chief, President Jacob Zuma. Soldiers are paid in line with other law enforcement agencies in the country. The new salaries effected from 1 December 2009 and later back dated to 1 July 2009 saw adjustments of between two percent and 65 percent with the lowest paid receiving the highest adjustment. Trainee soldiers within the Military Skills Development Programme received close to 100 percent increase. The truth is that since her appointment in May 2009 Minister Sisulu has prioritised the introduction of a new dispensation for the SANDF which will cater specifically for all the needs of the SANDF out of the public service.

The appointment of the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission has nothing to do with the strike by few undisciplined soldiers to the union building. The minister announced the process to introduce the new dispensation before the strike, the commission was appointed with the mandate to prepare and lay the systems and the policies for the introduction of the permanent commission and the new dispensation.

The report mentioned in the article was submitted to the minister on 9 November 2009 by the commission. The report identifies salaries and the ineffectiveness of the complaints and grievances resolution mechanism as the biggest concerns in the SANDF. New adjusted salaries have been implemented since 1 July 2009. A new grievance and complain mechanism has been introduced and an ombudsman platform for the SANDF is being finalised.

Cabinet approved the appointment of the Interim National Defence Force Service Commission. The report is ongoing work, when completed it will go to Cabinet before is released to the public. The minister has explained this to the Portfolio Committee in a number of appearances before the committee and written communication.

For more information contact:
Ndivhuwo Mabaya
Cell: 083 645 7838
E-mail:defmedia@mweb.co.za

Issued by: Department of Defence
26 Jul 2010

Bakkie overturns killing two on N18 outside Stella

25 Jul 2010

Two people were killed and four other passengers were injured, one seriously  after the vehicle in which they were travelling overturned around noon on the N18 Vryburg-Taung road on Sunday.

A tyre burst is alleged to have caused the driver of the Toyota Stallion which was from Stella to Setlagole to lose control of the vehicle about  18 kilometers from Setlagole. A 75 year old man and 42 years old woman died at the scene of the accident.

The driver and the injured passengers were rushed by paramedics to Stella Provincial Hospital. North West MEC for Public Safety, Howard  Yawa wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery. MEC Yawa who is still shocked by the horrific  accident that claimed 10 lives  on the N4 in Rustenburg on Friday has conveyed his condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones in road accidents over the weekend in the province.

The MEC appeals to motorists to do pre-trip inspections  on their vehicles before taking to the roads. 

Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele 
Tel: (018) 381 9171 
Cell: 083 629 1987 
Fax: (018)381 9123
E-mail: LKgwele@nwpg.gov.za

Issued by: North West Public Safety
25 Jul 2010

Holiday Accommodation St. Lucia Estuary

We have six self-catering log cabins. Each cabin has two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen, lounge, and a carport for your vehicle next to the cabin. A braai area, swimming pool and a security gate. We also do not allow any visitors e.g. if you meet family or friends in town you are not allowed to invite them for a drink or a braai (unless arranged with management.). This is for security reasons. We also ask an R200.00 deposit (which is refundable) for the remote of the security gate.

Contact: Rita - 035 5901276

Statement on the July 2010 Cabinet Lekgotla

Statement on the July 2010 Cabinet Lekgotla presented by President Jacob Zuma, Union Buildings, Pretoria

22 Jul 2010

Ladies and gentlemen of the media good morning,
As is customary, the July Lekgotla focused on planning issues to inform the annual budgeting process which starts in earnest in August.

This is the first July Lekgotla in which such planning issues were presented within the framework of the outcomes approach, which we adopted to help us change the way government works to improve service delivery.

There are two main objectives of the outcomes approach. Firstly, we are increasing the strategic focus of government.

In the past, we tended to focus our attention on too many things, and consequently failed to make sufficient progress on some of the most important projects.
For this reason, at the January Cabinet Lekgotla a decision was taken to focus our attention on the achievement of 12 outcomes.

Secondly, we are introducing a more rigorous approach to the way in which government implements its programmes.

This involves identifying the key outputs and activities required to achieve the outcomes, and identifying appropriate indicators and targets to enable the monitoring of progress.

After the January Lekgotla, Cabinet agreed on sets of high level outputs, indicators and targets for each of the 12 outcomes, and these then became the basis for the performance agreements which the President entered into with Ministers at the end of April.

Ministers were then asked to work with key partners to negotiate a Delivery agreement which clarifies who will do what, when and using what resources to achieve the outcome.

While promoting that, departments should work together, at the same time, care is being taken that the collective agreements do not cloud the accountability of individual Ministers and Directors-General.

Once the Delivery Agreements are finalised, there will be a strong monitoring of their implementation. The contents of the Delivery Agreements will be the basis of government’s new Programme of Action.

Progress with implementation of the Delivery Agreements will be the key agenda item on an ongoing basis for engagement between Ministers and Provincial MECs, Clusters, Cabinet Committees and Cabinet.

These coordinating structures will receive regular progress reports so that blockages can be attended to timeously, as it was done during the FIFA World Cup tournament. 

Some highlights of some of the Delivery Agreements include:

Education

In order to achieve the outcome of improved quality of basic education, there will be a focus on improving the quality of teaching so that results improve, as measured by internationally benchmarked tests.

Targets have been set for the improvements in results at various grades over time. In order to achieve this, we will be providing all schools with appropriate learner and teacher support materials such as lesson plans, workbooks and textbooks, to ensure proper coverage of the curriculum.

To promote universal access, we must get 200 000 children between the ages of 7 and 15 into school, before 2014.

Some children live far away from school. Others need special education and local schools may not offer this, and many are from poor homes.

To achieve this we will continue to make the number of no-fee schools available and to increase feeding schemes to assist children from poor families.

There will also be a drive to ensure that teachers are in class, teaching, for the allocated school time. The Delivery Agreement has been negotiated with all the key stakeholders, including provincial education departments and the trade unions.

Health

The Health Delivery Agreement aims to address the burden of diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis (TB), malaria, and others and performance problems in the public health system.

Highlights include early treatment of patients who are HIV positive.

Government has recently conducted very successful campaigns against both polio and measles.

This was in response to recent outbreaks but also as part of the global elimination campaign advocated by the World Health Organisation.

We are proud to announce that we have now reached about 90% coverage for polio immunization for children under five years of age and 95% coverage for measles immunisation for children aged between 6 months and 14 years.

Fight against crime

We will be drawing on the highly successful policing and justice arrangements which were put in place for the World Cup to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of our justice and crime prevention system.

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster has been mandated to create an Anti-Corruption Task Team which will fast-track the investigation and prosecution of cases of corruption.

Human settlements

In the area of human settlements, one of the targets we have set ourselves is to positively impact on the quality of life of 400 000 households by 2014 by upgrading informal settlements.

This will provide households with security of tenure as well as access to essential services in sites which are close to economic and other social amenities. Each province has indicated what its contribution to the national target would be.

Rural development and land reform

In our discussion on strategies to improve the lives of citizens that live in the rural areas of our country, we recognise that we need a two-pronged approach.

We will focus on the expansion of commercial farming and agri-processing opportunities to stimulate local economic growth and employment, while also increasing the number of small holder farmers and their market share.

In addition, a parallel strategy of providing predictable income for the poor through work in the Community Work Programme will be intensified.

The programme pays a wage to unemployed individuals who work on activities prioritised by the community such as fencing and maintenance of schools and clinics as well as caring for the aged amongst others.

Infrastructure development

Building on the successful delivery of World Cup infrastructure, we will take forward the delivery of major projects such as:

• Medupi power station
• Re-commissioning the Komati power station
• Ingula pump storage scheme
• Sere wind power project
• Solar power plant
• Mooi-Umgeni water transfer scheme (including the Spring Grove dam)
• Mokolo-Crocodile water project
• Completion of the new petroleum pipeline
• Completion of the Gautrain in the next year
• Expansion of the bus rapid transit systems.

Youth development

There was a particular focus on the challenge of youth unemployment and skills, and a number of proposed initiatives were discussed in this regard.

For example, we will increase access to post-school education and training to give young people who have not completed their senior secondary education an opportunity to attain an equivalent qualification.

Those who have completed matric but could not access universities will be provided with access to programmes that are occupationally directed such as the artisans training.

Economic growth and development

The Lekgotla also received a presentation on the draft developmental economic growth path document that has been compiled since the January Lekgotla.

It was agreed that a special Cabinet meeting will be held shortly to focus on developing the document further. One of the central considerations is how to create employment on a large scale.

This will include working closely with the unions and business community to identify the job drivers.

Government will soon be announcing the dates of a lekgotla with the business community to discuss the legacy of the 2010 World Cup, to identify and discuss opportunities created and explore further initiatives that advance the development of our country.

We also have a pending meeting with labour to discuss working together to improve the quality of life of all.

Cabinet wishes to take this opportunity to congratulate and thank the organisers of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, our civil service, and all our people, supporters and visitors, for a historic event, successful beyond expectation.

National pride, and the inspiration to do more and achieve more, is the primary legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The Lekgotla resolved not only to continue to build on the spirit that has welded us together as a cohesive nation, but to harness this energy to solve the many problems we face as a developing country.

We have created much international goodwill towards South Africa. Many factors give us the confidence that the World Cup was indeed economically in our interest as a nation.

Amongst others, these are the thousands of tourists who spent foreign currency here, our own investments in infrastructure which remains with us, the many jobs that were created in the preparation and during the event, as well as the exposure of South Africa as a ‘well organised’ destination for business and investment from all over the world.

Over and above the positive impact on this year’s GDP, we will be working towards ensuring that the World Cup legacy also contributes to economic growth in years to come.

We want to ensure the continued sustainability of our stadiums, through attracting more African and international events to our country.

The broad participation of all our people in the planning and implementation process has made the World Cup a success and has resulted in improved social cohesion. 

We will also build on this by incorporating community participation and stakeholder engagement in the service delivery programmes of government.

A more detailed assessment of the tournament and its legacy is being carried out by the 2010 FIFA World Cup Inter-ministerial Committee which will complete a comprehensive report for Cabinet by the end of September.

In the meantime, some of the approaches which resulted in the success of the event are already being applied to government’s work.

It is clear that one of the key reasons for our success was that our approach to the planning and management of the World Cup was similar to our new outcomes approach.

As with the management of the World Cup preparations, the Delivery Agreements for each outcome provide clear and detailed plans for what needs to be achieved, and their implementation will be systematically monitored.

The outcomes will not be achieved overnight, as much as the 2010 FIFA World Cup was an intense event that took more than five years of planning and dedicated hard work to organise.

Over the next two months, GCIS will be arranging a series of media briefings with the relevant Ministers per outcome, where the details of each Delivery Agreement will be presented. Detailed questions on the individual outcomes should be asked at these briefings.

Overall, we are happy with the progress made thus far. We are on the right track, we just have to finalise the delivery agreements, and fast-track implementation.

The Deputy President and I will work closely with the Ministers and departments to ensure that these programmes are implemented to our satisfaction.

I thank you

Enquiries:
Themba Maseko
Cell: 083 645 0810

Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
22 Jul 2010

Working together to grow an economy that benefits all

21 Jul 2010

On Tuesday, 20 July 2010, government in partnership with SABC 1 brought
you another episode of the reality show called "Rize Mzansi".

The second episode of this television series featured information on how
to register a business. This episode focused on the products and
services offered by the Companies and Intellectual Properties
Registration Office also known as CIPRO.

To find out more on how to register your company visit CIPRO's website
on http://www.cipro.co.za or call the CIPRO customer contact centre at:
0861 843 384 or visit CIPRO at the Department of Trade and Industry
campus (Block F, Entfutfukweni) 77 Meintjies Street, Sunnyside Pretoria.

So, make sure to watch "Rize Mzansi" on SABC1 on Tuesday evenings
between 18h30 and 19h30 as it highlights the economic opportunities in
the inclusive economy for emerging entrepreneurs and potential
beneficiaries.

Visit http://www.gov.za every Wednesday until 6 October 2010 to findout
about economic opportunities that were aired on "Rize Mzansi".

Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
21 Jul 2010

President Jacob Zuma to brief media on the outcomes of the Cabinet Lekgotla

21 Jul 2010

President Jacob Zuma will on Thursday, 22 July brief members of the
media on the outcomes of the Cabinet Lekgotla which took place from
Tuesday, 20 July 2010 at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date: Thursday, 22 July 2010
Time: 08h30 for 09h00
Venue: Room 153, Union Buildings Pretoria

There will be a video link to Imbizo Media Centre in Parliament, Cape Town.

Please RSVP before 08h00 on Thursday, 22 July 2010:

Pheliswa Sebati
Cell: 082 413 4609

Tuso Zibula
Cell: 072 127 1565

Media enquiries:
Bongiwe Gambu
Cell: 082 714 9463

Issued by: The Presidency
21 Jul 2010

Nelson Mandela International Day celebration initiative

Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO’s) Nelson Mandela International Day celebration initiative

19 Jul 2010

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will guided by the message of “being service to others” partner with Imbumba Aganang Private Party (IAPP) (Pty) Ltd join hands in celebrating the life and times of former President Nelson Mandela’s 92nd birthday on 19 July 2010.

As every South African identifies and commits time and effort to the legacy of this great man, DIRCO staff and workers of Imbumba will equally contribute to this national effort by providing the necessary improvements at Saulridge High School situated at the Atteridgeville Township outside Pretoria. Saulridge High School, whose motto is “Scientia est Potentia” or “Knowledge is Power” had the best matric results in Atteridgeville last year in the face of adversity.

Saulridge High School, boasting 1 047 learners and 36 qualified teachers are all doing their best, albeit in an environment full of challenges. DIRCO and Imbumba wishes to commit its support to the creation of a conducive and fertile environment for proper teaching and learning. In this regard, the partnership between DIRCO and IAPP will see both sending volunteers to the school on Monday, 19 July 2010 to do some repainting, flooring, rebuilding dilapidated classrooms and decorating the school in an effort bring more hope in the lives of these deserving pupils.

In the words of DIRCO’s Director General, Dr Ntsaluba “It is an honour for DIRCO to assist Saulridge High School who have shown commitment in uplifting the lives of pupils around its vicinity by providing excellent education against all odds.”

Speaking on behalf o IAPP, Brenda Madumise said “IAPP was more than happy to stretch the 67 minutes to seven hours of service, noting that Nelson Mandela spent his entire life in the service of this country”.

Although the Nelson Mandela International Day requires 67 minutes of selfless charity to a cause from all South Africans, the DIRCO and IAPP’s programme will begin at 09h00 and end at 15h00. This partnership argues that Nelson Mandela has been more than an inspiration to our young democracy, for he is a man who used words to change minds and deeds to change hearts – Tata Madiba is a man who embraced forgiveness in order to transform the minds of the oppressor and lift the hopes of the oppressed.

We thank you Madiba for teaching us that the price we pay to life, is to be of service to all mankind!

 

Issued by: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
19 Jul 2010

The occasion of the Older Persons Summit

Address by Western Cape MEC for Social Development, Dr Ivan Meyer, on the occasion of the Older Persons Summit, George

25 Jun 2010

Programme director
The mayor and councillors of Eden district municipality
Government representatives from all spheres
Members of non-governmental organisations
Older persons of the Eden/Karoo region
Colleagues
Ladies and gentlemen

Good day to you all

Today is undoubtedly, an important day in our endeavours to build social cohesion and a caring society. I am certainly delighted to be part of this occasion, as I have a personal stake in matters of older persons.

The theme for this summit is: "Rights of Older Persons" and this is a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect and fulfill the aspirations of our senior citizens.

Our gathering here today is an affirmation of the significant role that older persons play in our society.

On this note, I would like to truly thank the organisers of this event, who worked tirelessly in making it a success. Let me also extend a special word of welcome to older persons from afar as Oudtshoorn, Ladysmith, Murraysburg and Prince Albert.

Your presence here is a positive indication that you have heeded our call for active ageing. Each one of you is an ambassador for the rights of older persons and I hope you will recruit more of your peers to join us in years to come. Your presence sends a clear message to us all to embrace ageing in a positive manner.

Older persons are central to the core mandate of the Department of Social Development. Accordingly, we use this day to kick start a number of older persons summits planned for the whole of the Western Cape.

This day gives us an opportunity as a collective to measure ourselves against the ideal of a caring society. Ladies and gentlemen, you will agree with me that a true measure of a caring society is how best it values and protects its senior citizens.

We all know too well that the older persons in this country have made and continue to make an invaluable contribution to all aspects of South African life. There is no doubt that our society benefits enormously from the presence and participation of those who have seen what life has to offer.

A prerequisite for the active involvement of older persons in building social cohesion is recognition that older persons are an integral part of society.
Statistics have already established that worldwide, the number of persons aged 60 years or older is estimated to be representing one in every ten persons.

Estimates show that by the year 2050, this figure will rise to one in every five and one in every three persons by 2150. According to the 2001 census data, older persons constitute 7.3 percent (3.2 million) of the South African population.

Some may argue that this number is statistically insignificant because it is marginally lower than the average proportion estimated at eight percent and substantially lower as compared to the developed countries where the figure is high as 19 percent.

However, this percentage is higher than the average for Africa, which is estimated at five percent. As is the case worldwide, women (with an estimated 61.6 percent) represent the largest number and proportion of older people in South Africa. Older men on the other hand constitute 2.8 percent of the population and 38 percent of the aged population.

In terms of the overall distribution of older person in South Africa, the largest concentration of older persons is in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, where the proportions are (11.9 percent) and (18.0 percent), respectively.

Coincidentally, these two provinces are predominantly rural and characterised by high levels of poverty. Here in the Western Cape, older persons constitute eight percent (approximately 450 000) of the total provincial population.

This reality calls for a concerted effort from all sectors of society to comprehensively address the needs of older persons.

At the same time, we need to build a caring society for all ages, a society that enables older persons to play a more meaningful role and enjoy active ageing.

We recall the fact that too many of our older people continue to live in poverty face negative perceptions about ageing, continue to be victimised by merciless criminal elements and worst of all, exploitation and abuse - sometimes by their very own family members.

There is no amount of government legislation that will ever begin to fix this problem. This problem is one that can only be addressed by each and every one of us as individuals and as a family.

The elderly have so much to share with each and every one of us. The advent of a modern way of life such as rapid urbanisation, coupled with the onset of chronic diseases, has significantly changed our way of life. Consequently, this has changed the roles of older people in society.

The reality in most of our communities is that older persons continue to bear the triple burden of providing care and support to an increasing number of orphans and vulnerable children, caring for their own chronically-ill children and facing the financial burden with limited resources at their disposal. We have all heard of horrifying stories of the abuse and neglect of older people within their own families.

We have heard of underhand business practices that defraud older persons of their social grants. I urge all older persons who know of similar practices in this province to report such matters to the social workers, police and relevant authorities. We cannot allow such callous actions to exist in our midst.

Accordingly, government has taken decisive actions to deal effectively with challenges facing the older people. We acknowledge today that despite its short life, democratic South Africa has achieved significant milestones towards improving the status of older persons.

This is in keeping up with the provisions of our Constitution which enshrines the rights of all people in our country to dignity, equality before the law and non-discrimination on the basis of age. Key amongst others, the government has since passed relevant legislation, namely the Older Persons Act No. 13 of 2006.

The act represents a new developmental approach to ageing which also seeks to keep older persons in their families and communities as long as possible. This approach is holistic, positive and promotes the full participate of older persons in developmental processes, as opposed to viewing them as passive recipients of development programmes.

The Act further promotes representation and active participation in decision making, recognising ageing as a normal phase of life. Thus the act seeks to maintain and increase the capacity of older persons to support them and to contribute to the well being of those around them.

Moreover, the act is aimed at protecting and promoting the well being of older persons, addresses the issues of poverty and the changing role of older persons in society. The act encompasses the main pillars of the Madrid plan of action on ageing, to which South Africa is a signatory.

The Plan is a crucial policy document which provides a framework in respect of issues relating to older persons. At the core of the plan is the promotion of the rights, independence, participation, care, self fulfillment and dignity of older persons.

As a department, we have developed the South African plan, which is consistent with the Madrid plan of action. Among other things, the South African plan aims to:

• eliminate discrimination, financial, psychological and physical abuse and other crimes against older persons, including intergenerational violence
• promote intergenerational solidarity with the goal of maintaining and improving social cohesion
• promote and implement active ageing programmes, including life-long education and training, and the full participation of older persons in community life
• recognise and support the care giving services provided by grandparents, especially women, to grandchildren, including orphans and other children made vulnerable by HIV and AIDS.

This plan is intended to be a living document with annual action plans for government and civil society, with a monitoring and evaluation system to gauge progress. One of the concerns expressed by the non-governmental organisation (NGO) sector has been the lack of service standards and proper monitoring and evaluation system regarding services for older persons.

This has resulted in the provision of inferior services and violation of the rights of older persons. Let me assure you we are taking decisive measures to address them.

Key among them is the implementation of the regulations for the Older Persons Act, which are receiving consideration as I speak.

We have also finalised the norms and standards for services to older persons. This will ensure compliance among service providers and that older persons receive quality services that affirm their dignity.

The monitoring and evaluation system will periodically provide us with information necessary to improve service delivery. Pursuant to the social development agenda, the department has embarked on a campaign to popularise the Older Persons Act.

Today is an opportune time to renew our collective commitments made to older persons through the Constitution and the Older Persons Act. Above all, let us give high priority to implementing the Older Persons Act, as we work towards implementing the social development agenda.

There is of course, only so much that government can do, we need partnerships between all sectors of society, from the national government, civil society, local government and the community as a whole, to comprehensively address the needs of our senior citizens.

The family, the community, and the public sector should play complementary roles in providing a continuum of care to older persons. Building a caring society requires that we put the very people that form the foundation of both the family and society, older persons, at the heart of our interventions. Today I urge you to take up the frontline trenches in our continued effort to build a caring society that respect its elders.

In closing, let me take this opportunity to wish you all the best of luck in today's Older Persons Summit. I trust that during the course of the day you will have open and frank discussions regarding the needs of older persons in the Eden/Karoo district.

You will also have a lively debate regarding the roles and responsibilities of all government departments. Each and every department needs to play an integral part with the implementation of the Older Persons Act.

I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those who are participating in improving the lives of older persons in our province. I would like to wish you all and many others the best on this special occasion.

I thank you. 

Issued by: Western Cape Social Development
25 Jun 2010

NYDA condemns sexual abuse against young professionals

National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) condemns sexual abuse against young professionals

19 Jul 2010

The recent tragic death of 19 year old Akhona Geveza, who was allegedly raped aboard the Safmarine Kariba cargo vessel and other reported sexual abuse allegations in the workplace have revealed just how some senior officials abuse their power and victimise young people who are only trying to pursue their careers.

Strong action should be taken to protect young people from sexual predators and those found guilty should receive harsh punishment.

“In addition to imparting skills and information, both public and private organisations must ensure that safety measures are taken to protect all employees against sexual abuse but specifically young women because they are more vulnerable,” says Andile Lungisa, the NYDA Executive Chairperson.

"We should not harbour criminals who are inhumane enough to take advantage of young people who are working hard to achieve their dreams. We encourage all young people in similar situations to speak out," concludes Lungisa.

Source: National Youth Development Agency

Issued by: National Youth Development Agency
19 Jul 2010

MEC Grant monitors latecomers from Cape Town station

20 Jul 2010

This morning, Western Cape Education Minister Donald Grant monitored latecomers arriving from Cape Town station.

Standing in the corridor in the Golden Acre shopping centre, Grant approached learners that were late for school.

"It is simply unacceptable that learners do not ensure that they are at school on time. In order to maximise the quality of education they receive, learners must adhere to the principle of 'time on task', said Grant.

"Last week I visited a number of high schools in the City Bowl to assess how schools were coping on the first day back at school. While learner attendance was high, it was apparent that some learners were failing to arrive at school on time."

At one school, Grant was shown the late attendance register, with some learners marked late 10 to 14 days of the month.

Grant said that learners from these "commuter schools" quickly blamed public transport for their tardiness.

"The reality is that there can be delays in public transport, however, delays do not occur every day. For instance, this morning, only one train arrived significantly late. Most of the trains arrived on time, and surprisingly, even the learners admitted to me that they simply woke up late," he said.

"They need to be more disciplined, get to bed on time and wake up a bit earlier".

Grant said that the purpose of today's exercise was to support schools in their efforts to curb late coming.

"The whole issue of late coming detracts from our goal to maximise teaching and learning time. School resources are used to monitor latecomers, these resources and time could be better utilised by improving learning outcomes," he said.

"Latecomers also disrupt classes, disturbing fellow learners who made an effort to be at school on time."

Grant said that if parents find that their children are consistently late for school, they should teach them to wake up on their own, prepare for unexpected delays in traffic, or ensure that they are placed on safe and reliable transport wherever possible, and finally, teach them the importance of "time on task" and "punctuality".

Community members can also play a role, by simply asking why they are late for school."

Grant added that once off the train, learners should go directly to school.

"In some cases, there is no sense of urgency," he said.

"My officials and I will continue to monitor late attendance throughout the province. Learners can also expect some more surprise visits in the future."

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

Issued by: Western Cape Education
20 Jul 2010

Southern African Customs Union

Communiqué: The Heads of State and Government meeting of the Member States of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) Pretoria, South Africa

16 Jul 2010

1. The Heads of State and Government of the Member States of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) met on 15 and 16 July 2010 in Pretoria, South Africa to reflect on the achievements and challenges, as well as to deliberate on the future strategic direction of SACU, in view of recent regional and global developments.

2. The meeting was chaired by His Excellency President Jacob Zuma of the Republic of South Africa and was attended by His Majesty, King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Swaziland, His Excellency President Hifikepunye Pohamba, President of the Republic of Namibia, His Excellency President Lieutenant General Seretse Khama Ian Khama of the Republic of Botswana and His Excellency the Right Honourable the Prime Minister Pakalitha Bethuel Mosisili of the Kingdom of Lesotho.

3. The Heads of State and Government recalled the outcome of the centenary summit and expressed satisfaction with the successful launch of the commemoration of SACU’s 100 years of existence.

4. The Heads of State and Government recalled the new Vision for SACU to be ‘an economic community with equitable and sustainable development, dedicated to the welfare of its people for a common future’, that was adopted and signed on 22 April 2010 in Windhoek, Namibia.

5. The Heads of State and Government observed that over the past 100 years SACU has been confronted with several challenges, which necessitated its continuous adaptation.

6. The Heads of State and Government considered SACU's achievements and the internal and external challenges currently facing SACU. Current challenges and strategic opportunities require that we do things in a different way to the benefit of all members of SACU.

7. Accordingly, the Heads of State and Government direct the Ministers to develop strategies to promote win-win solutions to address among others the followings challenges:

a. Strengthening the capacity in the Secretariat.
b. Developing the necessary policies and procedures to conclude the establishment of institutions.
c. Ensuring that all work on industrial policy, agricultural policy, competition policy, unfair trade practices and other priority commitments in the SACU Agreement are being implemented.
d. Developing a SACU trade and tariff policy, and trade strategy that support industrialisation in SACU.
e. Developing deliberate initiatives to promote intra-SACU trade.
f. Following the principle of unified engagement amongst SACU Member States in trade negotiations with third parties, while recognising different levels of development and capacity of Member States.
g. Investigating financing options for cross-border projects.
h. Exploring the possibility of a review of the 2002 SACU Agreement.
i. Developing SACU positions on new generation issues, taking into account ongoing negotiations.
j. Defining a roadmap for moving towards an Economic Community and Monetary Union.
k. Consideration of the sharing of SACU Revenue.
l. Positioning SACU at the centre of the regional economic integration agenda.

8. The Heads of State and Government recognised that despite the challenges, SACU has played and continues to play an important role in the economies of its Member States.

9. The Heads of State and Government agreed that SACU be transformed into a vehicle for regional economic integration capable of promoting equitable development, in order to ensure it achieves its new vision.

10. The Heads of State and Government further recognised the role that SACU can play in Southern Africa as a building block for deeper regional integration, given its level of integration.

11. The Heads of State and Government have agreed to meet again by the end of October 2010.

12. The Heads of State and Government congratulated South Africa on its successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

13. The Heads of State and Government expressed their appreciation to the Government and People of the Republic of South Africa for the warm hospitality extended by South Africa in hosting the inaugural meeting of SACU Heads of State and Government.

Source: The Presidency

Issued by: The Presidency
16 Jul 2010

Providing the correct health care within the public health service

16 Jul 2010

In order to ensure that urgent care is given to patients in need, both staff and the public should be aware of the correct procedure for referring patients to the most appropriate level of care, at the same time ensuring such referral will bring the patient closer to their place of residence within the Western Cape.

This includes:

Minor illness or injuries are treated at primary health care facilities such as a Clinic or a Community Health Centre (CHC). This should be the patient's first entry point into the public health service as many services are offered. A specially trained nurse will treat the patient and refer you to a doctor if your condition requires it.

More serious conditions are referred to the next level of care which is a district hospital. Should the patient's condition need further investigation or intervention, the nurse or doctor will make an appointment for them at the district hospital closest to their home.

Western Cape Minister of Health, Theuns Botha, said, “A large number of complaints and problems at health facilities arise as a result of the poor understanding of our referral system. Patients often spend many unnecessary travelling and waiting hours because they are unaware of our referral route. Adherence to the referral system will greatly lighten the workload at our respective facilities be it a community health centre or hospital and improve the patient experience."

If the district hospital is unable to provide the necessary treatment, the doctor will refer the patient to an appropriate hospital, which offers a higher level of care.

When a patient is referred to a different hospital or clinic, the health care will provide them with a letter of referral and an appointment date. A letter of referral tells the doctor about the care the patient has already received. It is important to keep these documents together in a safe place and patients need to take them along to their next appointment.

It is only on certain conditions that a patient can be referred i.e. complications, high risk diseases, x-rays and results, scanning, acute injuries (where a patient must see a specialist) and on situations where a general practitioner doctor or family physician is no longer able to help a patient.

The Western Cape Department of Health encourages the public to make the primary health care facilities their first port of entry into the public health system. However, there are instances where the public bypass the referral route and present themselves to hospitals directly, without the necessary referral letter. It is very costly to government to provide health care to someone at a hospital who could have received the same treatment at a primary health care facility closer to their home.

When patients present themselves at a district, regional or tertiary hospital, they are assessed, triaged and if found that they are able to receive the necessary treatment at a clinic or CHC they will be referred back to the primary health care facility closest to their home. This enables follow up on discharge, with feedback to the clinics, continuous support for primary level staff in the management of patients and a mechanism to ensure the patients do not get lost in the health care system for follow-up.

All clinics have access (by referral or by periodic clinic visits) to specialist mental health expertise (psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists) and social workers from district or regional level at least once a month.

Media enquiries:
Ethne Julius
Tel: 021 483 3563
Cell: 083 237 1303

Source: Western Cape Provincial Government

 

 

Issued by: Western Cape Health
16 Jul 2010

Mohono dedicates Mandela Day to the poor

13 Jul 2010

North West MEC for Human Settlements, Desbo Mohono, is dedicating this year’s Mandela week to address the housing needs of the poor in the rural parts of the province.

On Wednesday, 14 July 2010, Mohono will be part of a high-powered government delegation that will be in Cokonyane, Taung, to lay foundations for ten houses that will be built for the needy. Cokonyane, like many other villages of our province and country, is characterised by a high level of unemployment and poverty, and many families rely on social grants for income.

In her budget speech, MEC Mohono announced that her department will be in Cokonyane as part of celebrating Nelson Mandela’s legacy. She said then, “We will identify ten families living in mud houses and then lay foundations for proper houses to be built.” The Wednesday event, which starts at 9h00, will be a symbolic re-affirmation of government’s commitment to work in partnership with all sectors to address our development challenges.

This year’s celebrations coincide with the 20^th anniversary of the release of former President Nelson Mandela. Through Mandela week, government seeks to mobilise all sectors of our society and individual members of the community to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to help the poor and vulnerable members of society.

In 2009, the United Nations declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela Day”, in recognition of Madiba’s contribution to global peace and freedom. The resolution to commemorate Mandela’s “long-standing commitment to promoting conflict resolution, race relations, human rights, reconciliation and gender equality,” was adopted by the 192-member UN General Assembly.

Nelson Mandela Day seeks to advance the objective of making ours a caring, humane and compassionate society that responds to the plight of the poor. The department’s intervention in Cokonyane gives concrete expression to government’s commitment to change the lives of all our people for the better.

For the Department of Human Settlements and its stakeholders, the call to action on Nelson Mandela Day is for the people of our province and country to work selflessly for 67 minutes, without expecting any personal recognition or material rewards, to help ensure that all our people, especially the poorest of the poor, are enabled to taste the fruits of our freedom and democracy.

The 67 minutes symbolises 67 years of uninterrupted and selfless service to the people of South Africa and the world. The annual celebration of a Nelson Mandela Day was initiated in 2009 by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664 Campaign. The day seeks to entrench Mandela’s legacy through commemorating, remembering and living the values and principles epitomised by this international icon.

The Department of Human Settlements in the North West will be using Mandela week to work with other sectors of society in order to help increase access to housing for many of our people.

Enquiries:
Cornelius Tanana Monama
Cell: 073 975 7186 or 082 578 4063
Tel: 018-391 0420/21

Issued by: North West Human Settlements
13 Jul 2010

President to meet with Business Unity South Africa

13 Jul 2010

President Jacob Zuma will tomorrow, 13 July 2010, meet with captains of commerce and industry under the auspices of Business Unity South Africa in Pretoria.

Details are as follows:
Date: 13 July 2010
Venue: Union Buildings, West Wing
Time: 14h00: Photo Opportunity (media arrival time is 13h00)
15h00: Door stop (media arrival time is 14h30).

Media are requested to RSVP to Matshepo@po.gov.za or sms 082 679 9473

Please bring press cards.

Enquiries:
Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 330 1148

Source: The Presidency

Issued by: The Presidency
13 Jul 2010

International Youth Nuclear Congress

South African Young Nuclear Professional Society together with the Department of Energy host the International Youth Nuclear Congress at the Cape Town International Convention Centre

13 Jul 2010

South African Young Nuclear Professionals in conjunction with the Department of Energy with the Society (SAYNPS) will host the International Youth Nuclear Congress in Cape Town. It is for the first time that the congress is hosted in Africa. More than 30 countries around the world will participate and make presentations at the congress.

One of the key objectives of the congress is to develop new approaches to communicate benefits of nuclear power as part of the balanced energy mix. The congress will also highlight youth and nuclear skills development, skills transfer and knowledge sharing at the research and technical levels, resulting in positive spin-offs for the much needed social and economic development programmes.It will further promote peaceful use of nuclear science and technology for the welfare of mankind.

Members of the media are invited to attend the opening session on Tuesday, 13 July 2010 where the Minister of Energy, Ms Dipuo Peters will give a keynote address. Other speakers on the day will include the Department of Energy Director-General Ms Nelisiwe Magubane, Deputy Director-General Mr Tseliso Maqubela, National Youth Development Agency Chairperson, Mr Andile Lungisa, the International Youth Nuclear Congress President, and other national and international speakers in the nuclear sector and academic level.

NB: Registration for the conference is on Monday, 12 July from 11h00 to 17h30 at the CTICC.

All sessions are open for media.

Tuesday’s session will also include a press conference at 13h30.

The details of the Congress are as follows:  

Date: 12 to 18 July 2010
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre
Time: 08h30 to 17h00 daily

RSVP:
Lerato Ntsoko
Tel: (012) 444 4269
Cell: 082 459 2799
E-mail: Lerato.ntsoko.@energy.gov.za

Enquiries:
Ndivhuwo Khangale
Tel: 012 444 4610
Cell: 082 465 6090
E-mail: Ndivhuwo.khangale@energy.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Energy
13 Jul 2010

Taariiq Abader is a 15 year old boy

Taariiq Abader is a 15 year old boy who went missing from his home in Bosmont, Johannesburg. He was last seen on the 7th of July, wearing blue jeans, blue Adidas track suite top and white Nike Sneakers. Please distribute the flyer.