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DECEMBER•JANUARY | 2022/2023

GOODBYE 2022 - GREETINGS 2023


2022 WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP MONEY FIT
It’s a wrap! Meet 2 SAA pilots New Year, new goals
Be a part of the
transformation.
19-20 July 2023
For more information
contact our Head of brand:

Lee-Anne Bruce at lee-ann.bruce@topco.co.za


Contents
DECEMBER 2022/JANUARY 2023 | ISSUE 22

Editorial
16 | Sustainability Update 38 | International Volunteers’

24
Highlights from COP27 Day
Four organisation’s who could use
18 | The grass is greener your help this festive season
Growing the economy through the
cannabis industry 40 | Festive seasons activities
10 ways to explore South Africa with
24 | New BEE Procurement your family
Regulations
Department’s to have more 54 | Data protection
discretion in procurement How sure are you that you’re
secure?
30 | World AIDS Day
Injecting healthcare with a new dose
36
of HIV prevention

36 | Festive travel
A renewed focus on festive season
road safety

18 54

Features 42 | Money Fit


New year, new goals

48 | Regional Focus
8 | Addressing The Nation President Ramaphosa takes Parliament to the People
South Africa is a nation at war with itslef of KZN

10 | Cover Story 50 | President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State Visit to the UK


2022 - it’s a wrap UK and SA partnership - a story of trade, investment, science
and innovation
32 | Trailblazer
Free State Education MEC, Pule Makgoe 52 | Legal Matters
Overtime and bonuses: What you should expect to see on your
34 | Women in Leadership end-of-year payslip
Two SAA pilots make history
56 | Upcoming Events
December is the month of reconciliation

4 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


34 50

42 52

CREDITS
Assistant Editors Printers
Koketso Mamabolo LAWPrint
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PUBLIC SECTOR LEADERS Sinazo Mkoko Images
The Digimag For Leaders sinazo.mkoko@topco.co.za iStock / Unsplash / GCIS | Flickr
In The South African Public Sector
Fully Accredited Member of ABC Contributors Digital Publishing Platforms
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Production Director DISCLAIMER
Van Fletcher Brand Coordinators All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
van.fletcher@topco.co.za Sidney Phiri stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any
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sidney.phiri@topco.co.za
without the prior written consent of Top Media & Communications
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Fiona Wakelin mandla.mangena@topco.co.za has been taken when compiling this publication, the publishers,
fiona.wakelin@topco.co.za editor and contributors accept no responsibility for any consequences
arising from any errors or emissions.

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 5


EDITOR’S LETTER
BY FIONA WAKELIN

Letter from the

Editor
President Ramaphosa’s Letter to the Nation on 28 November focused on
the GBVF scourge that South Africans experience on a daily basis.

“W
e are in Leadership celebrates two female
the grip SAA pilots, Captain Annabel Vundla
of terrible and First Officer Refilwe Moreetsi.
crimes The Regional Focus is KwaZulu-
in which Natal and, appropriately for this
offenders are known to the time of year, in the Legal Matters
victims. Women and children regular we take a look at bonuses,
are being violated not only by leave and overtime – while in
strangers but by people who Financial Fitness we help with tips
are known to them – by their and advice for planning your
fathers, boyfriends and husbands, 2023 finances.
by colleagues, teachers
and even classmates,” – Feature articles include a 2022
President Ramaphosa. retrospective and a sustainability
update (COP27). If you are stressing
His Excellency stated that we are, about data protection and privacy
however, not powerless to stop we have some valuable insights
this scourge - citing that there into how you can ensure you
has been a growing mobilisation, are secure.
with more than 17 000 trial-
ready GBV cases having been Whether you are in the public
processed by teams of the SAPS sector, the private sector, supply
and the National Prosecuting chain or an interested individual,
Authority. However, whilst many PSL has something for you.
of the perpetrators are no longer
getting away with their crimes, Thank you for your support during
first and foremost we have to 2022. We wish you a peaceful, safe,
focus on the prevention of the healthy, happy end of year and look
abuse in the first place. forward to seeing you in 2023.

As part of his busy schedule, We hope you enjoy the read.


President Ramaphosa arrived This bumper December/January
in London for a State Visit to edition of PSL takes a look at
the United Kingdom hosted by the major events of 2022 and
His Majesty King Charles III and tips and advice for the Festive
delivered his annual address Season.
to the National Council of
Provinces (NCOP) during the Our Trailblazer this month
“Taking Parliament to the People” is Free State Education MEC
programme summit. Pule Makgoe; and Women in FIONA WAKELIN | GROUP EDITOR

6 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


IMPROVING
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ADDRESSING THE NATION
BY FIONA WAKELIN

South Africa is a
nation at war
with itself

P
resident Ramaphosa’s
letter to the nation on
28 November focuses
on his address to the
second Presidential
Summit on Gender-based Violence
and Femicide where he stated that
South Africa is at war with itself.

He refers to the tragic crime


statistics for the last quarter, which
were released just before the start
of the annual 16 Days of Activism
for No Violence against Women
and Children.

“Between July and September


this year, 989 women were
murdered, 1,277 were victims of
attempted murder and more than
13,000 were victims of serious
assault. In just these three months,
more than 10,000 rape cases were
opened with the South African
Police Service (SAPS).

8 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


“Not even children, our prevention of men and boys dialogues that we can examine
most vulnerable citizens and from becoming abusers in the our understanding of sexual
most deserving of our care and first place. consent and show how some
protection, were spared. In the six assumptions and practices
months to September 2022, over “To give meaning to 16 Days that many people consider
500 children were killed. of Activism we now need to ‘normal’ are harmful to
engage the men of South women and children.
“We are in the grip of terrible Africa in a dialogue about
crimes in which offenders are their responsibility towards The belief that men are
known to the victims. Women and women and toxic masculinity. strong and women are weak
children are being violated not All of society should be must be challenged.
only by strangers but by people mobilised to organise these
who are known to them – by their men’s dialogues. “As President, I stand ready to
fathers, boyfriends and husbands, participate in men’s dialogues.
by colleagues, teachers and even “The government, non- I call on Ministers, Premiers,
classmates,” - H.E. Ramaphosa. governmental organisations religious, political and
and the private sector should community leaders, sports
In his letter, His Excellency be encouraged to support people, artists, celebrities
states that we are, however, not such dialogues in every and business people to do
powerless to stop these crimes, workplace, place of worship, the same.
citing that there has been a school, college and university,
growing mobilisation, with more and in every community. “The men of South Africa owe it
than 17 000 trial-ready GBV cases Every day various entities to the women and children of this
having been processed by teams devote resources to public country to take up the struggle
of the SAPS and the National engagements, conferences against gender-based violence.
Prosecuting Authority with the and seminars on various
courts handing down heavier pressing social, economic “These men’s dialogues
sentences to perpetrators. and political issues of the day. can be platforms for men
These are forums where this to challenge each other to
However, whilst many of the engagement should happen,” become better men, more
perpetrators are not getting – President Ramaphosa. responsible, more understanding
away with their crimes, His Excellency emphasises and more caring,”
first and foremost is the that it is through these – President Ramaphosa.

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 9


2022 news wrap
By Jessie Taylor

It’s a wrap:
The news stories
that shaped 2022
T
he past year has seen some significant triumphs in the face of immediately to restore services to
adversity for South Africans, with the government taking decisive affected communities, with more
and bold action in response to both local and international events. than 90% of services restored in
These are some of the stories that South Africans followed this year: under three months.

In addition to the infrastructure


damages, the province suffered a
severe blow to the economy, with
the tourism and logistics sectors
severely affected.

This saw repairs prioritised at


attractions such as the Mandela
Capture Site, Howick Falls and
beachfronts as part of the recovery
and reconstruction process, as well
as work at King Shaka International
airport to support air travel into
the province

The KwaZulu-Natal Department


of Transport launched a project
to patch potholes and repair
damaged roads and bridges
through more than 700 initiatives
to be implemented through an
Rebuilding in the face of However, the provincial and emergency procurement process.
natural disaster national governments acted As part of the province’s recovery
In April, KwaZulu-Natal fell quickly to rebuild in the face of plan, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for
victim to devastating floods the disaster, with R1-billion in the Department of Economic
and landslides. The natural contingency funding has been Development, Tourism, and
disaster saw more than 400 committed by National Treasury Environmental Affairs Ravi Pillay
lives lost, another 40 000 people for flood relief efforts. With the said the focus would be placed
displaced, and billions of rands’ support of the private and on resilient sectors such as
worth of damages to public and non-profit sectors, the government agriculture, manufacturing, and
private infrastructure. departments began working the ocean economy.

10 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Tightening regulations on The government is also looking In addition, the way in which the
financial crimes to amend two other Bills in a bid government investigates and
This year saw the South African to combat financial crimes and prosecutes financial crimes has
government taking decisive action corruption: the General Laws also been bolstered.
to prevent greylisting the global (Anti-Money Laundering and
money-laundering and terrorist Combating Terrorism Financing) Justice Minister Ronald Lamola
financing watchdog, the Financial Amendment Bill and the Protection announced that a tripartite
Action Task Force (FATF). of Constitutional Democracy Against agreement was concluded
Terrorist and Related Activities among the National Prosecuting
New amendment bills were submitted Amendment Bill. Authority, Financial Intelligence
to Parliament to counter money Centre & the Directorate for
laundering and combat terrorism The new laws are critical to Priority Crime Investigative Unit
financing, focusing on amending the avoid greylisting, says Finance (Hawks) to fast-track criminal
Financial Intelligence Centre Act, Minister Enoch Godongwana. The and financial investigations in
Non-profit Organisations Act, Trust finance minister adds that he money laundering matters.
Property Control Act, Companies Act believes the country can address
and the Financial Sector Regulations the shortcomings raised by the Minister Lamola says an
Act. The amendments seek to FATP by February 2023. Anti-Money Laundering
tighten the regulations around how Desk Strategy has been
businesses keep records of ownership Minister Godongwana says formulated to cover the
and will introduce ways to trace the legislation sends a strong investigation and prosecution
the legal standing of individuals in message to the FATP that the of money laundering and
leadership positions. government is taking action. terrorist financing.

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 11


South Africa exits the The disbanding of the State of
State of Disaster Disaster heralded the end of a series
After more than two years after of lockdown levels that had been
South Africa declared a State imposed to manage the pandemic,
of Disaster in response to the which ranged from no public
Covid-19 pandemic, all restrictions movement beyond essential workers
and regulations were dropped to curfews and mask-wearing.
in April. “The end of the National State of
Disaster is an important milestone
The declaration of the National in our fight against the pandemic. It
State of Disaster on 15 March is a sign of the progress we have
2020 empowered government made together and a reminder of
to take the measures that saved what our nation has endured,” said
countless lives in the face of an President Ramaphosa.
unprecedented global threat
“The end of the National State of
“These measures were effective Disaster is a firm statement of our
in slowing down the rate of determination to live our lives and
infection, easing pressure on rebuild our country even as this virus Decisive action
our hospitals, and providing the remains in our midst.” against corruption
time we needed to develop the This year saw the conclusion of the
infrastructure, resources and Several Covid-19 regulations monumental effort to unravel the
capacity to manage a large remained in place after the end extent of state capture and the
number of people who became of the State of Disaster, but these damaging effect thereof on our
ill as a result of Covid-19,” says were repealed by Health Minister democracy through the Zondo
President Cyril Ramaphosa. Joe Phaahla in June. The repealed Commission of Inquiry in State Capture
regulations included the wearing of
It also allowed the introduction of masks, curbs on gathering sizes and Initially slated to take place over 180
the special R350 Social Relief of border checks for Covid-19. days, the hearings stretched to more
Distress Grant and other forms of The government’s response to the than 400 days, during which more
economic relief for those affected pandemic is now facilitated by the than 300 witnesses testified. The whole
by the pandemic. National Health Act. process took nearly four years to
complete. This year, the Commission
concluded its work by issuing a
5000-page report detailing how state
resources were plundered.
During the handover of the final
part of the reports, President Cyril
Ramaphosa committed to submitting
an implementation plan to Parliament,
detailing how the government
would respond to the findings and
recommendations of the Commission.

The president has also committed to


professionalising the public service
to prevent future abuse of power and
the manipulation of public service
appointment and dismissal processes.

12 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Decisive foreign policy in also by the parties that are involved
the face of criticism in the conflict.
International headlines were
dominated by the Russian invasion Despite pressure to implement
of Ukraine earlier this year. With sanctions against Russia, the
intense international pressure government said it had called on
to take a stance in support of Russia to withdraw from Ukraine but
either nation, the South African held its ground on a cautious and
government elected to strongly measured response, saying it would
enforce their foreign policy of first promote dialogue before it
mediation and negotiation in the considered sanctions.
face of international conflict.
South Africa’s approach
President Cyril Ramaphosa says to the conflict was informed by
the government opted to engage its history, said President Ramaphosa,
in dialogue and mediation to and that South Africa had
contribute to the achievement of attained democracy through a
a resolution. He said that South negotiated settlement
This will include addressing political Africa strongly urged all sides to
interference and a lack of transparency uphold international law, including “We remain steadfast in our conviction
and accountability in appointing the humanitarian law and human rights that achieving world peace through
leadership of state-owned companies. law, as well as the principles of the negotiation, and not force of arms, is
UN Charter, including sovereignty. indeed attainable. This is a principle on
The government has also invested which we have been consistent since
significantly in strengthening He added that this approach the advent of our democracy and
law enforcement agencies. The allows South Africa to make its which remains an important part of our
Investigating Directorate (ID) was voice heard, not only publicly but foreign policy orientation,” he said.
established within the National Director
of Public Prosecutions to police
corruption, and to date, more than 20
state capture-related criminal cases
have been enrolled by the National
Prosecuting Authority.

The National Assembly Rules


Committee has also adopted a
plan to deal with the Commission’s
recommendations and oversee
the president’s implementation
plan. Parliament’s plan includes the
establishment of a committee to
oversee the president and Presidency,
enhancing the capacity of members
of parliament to hold the executive
accountable, adequate resourcing for
parliamentary oversight, and a system
to track and monitor the performance
of the executive on resolutions of the Sources: Businesstech | reliefweb | bbc. | Bloomberg | cogta | dailymaverick |
Houses of Parliament. globalcompliancenews | iol | news24 | politicsweb | sabcnews | thepresidency

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 13


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COP27
BY JESSIE TAYLOR

Sustainability
Update (COP27)
Commitments to protect
vulnerable countries against the
effects of climate change

T
he United Nations levels, as well as cut greenhouse report found that implementation
Climate Change gas emissions and adapt to of current pledges by national
Conference (COP27) the impacts of climate change. governments put the world on track
closed with a The conference brought together for a 2.5°C warmer world by the end
breakthrough more than 45 000 participants to of the century. In addition, the UN’s
agreement to protect vulnerable share ideas and solutions and build Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
countries affected by climate partnerships and coalitions Change has said that greenhouse
disasters by providing “loss and to address climate change and gas emissions must decline 45%
damage” funding. its impact. by 2030 to limit global warming
to 1.5°C.
The agreement was concluded at The two-week summit began on
the end of more than two weeks of Sunday, 6 November. While COP27 President Sameh Shoukry
negotiations around climate change it was meant to finish on Friday, said: “The work that we’ve
and efforts to mitigate its impact. 18 November, the process managed to do here in the past
over-ran into the early hours of two weeks, and the results we
A REAFFIRMED COMMITMENT Sunday, 20 November, as have together achieved, are a
COP27 saw countries reaffirming nations thrashed agreements testament to our collective will,
their commitment to limit global on sticky issues. The work of the as a community of nations, to
temperature rise to 1.5 degrees conference comes at a critical voice a clear message that rings
Celsius above pre-industrial time. A recent UN Climate Change loudly today, here in this room and

16 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


the ground-breaking decision to
establish a dedicated fund to assist SOME KEY OUTCOMES
developing countries in responding OF COP27
• The conference saw the
to loss and damage caused by
launch of a new five-year
climate change. The fund will help
work program to promote
climate-vulnerable countries
climate technology solutions in
considered to be developing. It will developing countries.
not include emerging economies.
• A mitigation work programme
was launched in Sharm el-
Governments also agreed to
Sheikh, aimed at urgently
establish a transitional committee scaling up mitigation ambition
to make recommendations on and implementation. The
how to operationalise the new work programme will start
funding arrangements. Countries immediately and continue until
also agreed on the institutional 2030, with at least two global
arrangements to operationalize dialogues held each year.
the Santiago Network for Loss and • Delegates at COP27 wrapped
Damage to catalyse technical up the second technical
assistance to developing countries dialogue of the first global
that are particularly vulnerable stocktake, a mechanism to
to the adverse effects of raise ambition under the
climate change. Paris Agreement.
• UN Secretary-General António
Simon Stiell, UN Climate Change Guterres announced a $3.1
Executive Secretary, said: “This billion plan to implement early
outcome moves us forward. We warning systems within the
have determined a way forward next five years.
on a decades-long conversation • Countries devised a master
on funding for loss and damage – plan to accelerate the
around the world: that multilateral deliberating over how we address decarbonization of five
diplomacy still works…. despite the the impacts on communities whose major sectors – power, road
difficulties and challenges of our lives and livelihoods have been transport, steel, hydrogen,
and agriculture.
times, the divergence of views, ruined by the very worst impacts
level of ambition or apprehension, of climate change.” • The Forest and Climate
we remain committed to the fight Leaders’ Partnership was
launched. The partnership
against climate change…. we In addition to the loss and damages
aims to unite action by
rose to the occasion, upheld our funding, countries also made
governments, businesses
responsibilities and undertook progress on the Global Goal on
and community leaders
the important decisive political Adaptation. This aims to improve to halt forest loss and land
decisions that millions around the resilience to climate change among degradation by 2030.
world expect from us.” vulnerable countries and has seen
• Former US Vice-President
nations pledge more than and climate activist Al Gore,
BALANCING THE CLIMATE $230 million to the Adaptation with the support of the UN
CHANGE SCALES Fund at COP27. Secretary-General, presented
Much of the discussion at COP27 a new independent inventory
centred around “climate finance” The funds will help vulnerable of greenhouse gas emissions
which considers the needs and communities adapt to climate created by the Climate
priorities of developing countries, change through concrete TRACE Coalition.
and these discussions gave rise to adaptation solutions.

Sources: news.un.org | unfccc.int| edie.net| nytimes

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 17


CANNABIS FARMING
BY JESSIE TAYLOR

The grass
is greener
Growing the economy through
the cannabis industry

T
he cannabis industry Address to fast-track regulations the market, but other regions are
has been earmarked for the local cannabis industry. The also beginning to claim their share.
as a key economic industry has the potential to be a According to the African Cannabis
differentiator by significant economic driver, with Report, the continent is likely to see
the South African hemp and cannabis production the value of its legal cannabis rise
government, as it has the potential having the ability to create as many to at least $7.1-billion in the next
to increase both jobs and as 130 000 new jobs for the country. few years. One of the nations that
economic revenue. is capitalising on this rising market
The global CBD and cannabis is Lesotho, which has been one of
To enable this sector, the market has seen exponential growth the first African nations to award
government is in the process in recent years, and some estimates licenses for cannabis cultivation for
of developing essential items of say it will be valued at close to scientific and medical purposes.
legislation that will regulate the $180-billion by 2030. It now serves as a model for other
use and growth of the plant. countries looking to begin cultivating
Last year the global CBD market cannabis – such as South Africa.
was calculated to have a market President Ramaphosa has called
THE POTENTIAL OF value of $4.5-billion, by 2028 the Lesotho a shining example of a
CANNABIS PRODUCTION value of this market is expected to country already grasping the
President Cyril Ramaphosa reach $20-billion. Europe and North enormous opportunities of
committed in his State of the Nation America are the biggest players in cannabis cultivation.

18 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Government plans include the Assistance for growers is also
signing of the Cannabis for Private covered by the master plan, and the
Purposes Bill during the 2022/2023 focus rests on supporting small-
financial year. scale and traditional cannabis
farmers, as well as formalising
The Bill, which follows a 2018 ruling growers that were previously
This means investment by the Constitutional Court that operating illegally. They will be
opportunities in the use, possession, and cultivation offered both technical and
cultivation, processing, of cannabis in private homes is financial support.
laboratories and not illegal and should be allowed
in South Africa, will ensure South The Department of Small Business
manufacturing, with
African laws are in line with the Development will be tasked, under
each sector bringing the
court decision. the master plan, with developing
potential for economic and implementing special
growth and job The Bill, if passed by the National incubation programmes for new
opportunities Assembly, will make amendments to suppliers, as well as facilitating
the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act. off-take agreements between
The Bill does not make provision for cannabis growers and
the commercialisation of cannabis, manufacturers.
but the government’s Cannabis
Master Plan provides a regulatory The master plan will see the
framework to overcome other implementation of breeding
legislative hurdles. programmes for new cannabis
and hemp cultivars and will
The Cannabis Master Plan details support research and development
how cannabis can be incorporated programmes for the cannabis
into South Africa’s business industry. It will also look at ways
sector. In the master plan, the to develop both local and
Department of Agriculture, Land export markets.
Reform, and Rural Development
has proposed legislative measures But the economic effects of
to remove the restrictions on the encouraging the cannabis industry
commercialisation of cannabis go beyond just supplying cannabis
South Africa has a rich heritage and hemp. produce – as the industry grows, so
of medicinal plants and the will the demand for services such
cultivation thereof, and there are President Ramaphosa says as greenhouses, nutrients, plant
around 100 cannabis-related that cannabis products will now growers, quality control systems
companies in South Africa (many be industrialised, to allow the and software.
of them cultivation businesses) country to harness the economic
that are investment ready. An benefits they bring, and that This leaves investment opportunities
estimated R5-billion has already policy and regulations will be in cultivation, processing,
been invested in the South fast-tracked. According to the laboratories and manufacturing,
African industry. master plan, the government will with each sector bringing the
develop and support the growth potential for economic growth
FAST-TRACKING and development of the and job opportunities. The
REGULATORY CHANGE manufacturing and product Cannabis Master Plan aims to
To fully unlock the potential development capacity of the provide a broad framework for the
of this industry, the South cannabis industry. The Cannabis development and growth of the
African government has Master Plan includes legislative South African Cannabis industry
embarked on a journey to reform and the development of a in order to contribute to economic
change legislation around national seed supply system, and development, rural development
cannabis use and cultivation. education initiatives. and poverty alleviation.

Sources: BusinessTech | Solidariteit | Business Insider | Farmer Weekly | IOL |SA News

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 19


ADVERTORIAL
AFRIPLEX

Afriplex
From source to shelf

A
friplex, a member of Today, we are proud of Our laboratory capabilities include:
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20 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


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ready to be distributed by our clients includes botanical extraction, concentration facilities
once they leave our facility. separation and spray-drying • An instrument lab housing
equipment; tableting and thin-layer chromatography and
We are able to procure all encapsulation machinery as well high-performance liquid
raw materials and packaging as manual and automated liquid chromatography equipment
components required, and ensure filling lines. • Three validated Constant
appropriate quality control for each Climate Chambers for
component as well as the final Our facility gets audited on a regular long- and short term
product we deliver. basis by regulatory bodies such as stability testing
the MCC, NAFDAC, FDA and SGS.
FUNCTIONAL FOOD AND
BEVERAGE SOLUTIONS Our commitment to adhere to full
Over the years we have developed pharmaceutical CGMP standards
the expertise to conceptualise is evident throughout our quality
novel and commercially viable management system. Our quality
product concepts for our local control systems are in line with
and international food and GLP and GMP principles. To keep
beverage clients. pace with the current regulatory
requirements and to ensure CONTACT DETAILS
Today, through the utilisation of exceptional quality control, we
unique technologies, we have expanded our quality control Telephone: +27 (0)21 872 4976
a proven track record when department by investing in the
Fax: +27 (0)86 578 1305
considering the innovation and necessary equipment and
development of value-added food qualified personnel. Email: info@afriplex.co.za
and beverage solutions.
In order to maximise our Physical Address: 10 De Vreugde
Crescent, Dal Josaphat, Paarl, 7646,
The process starts in our Product capabilities as an all-inclusive
South Africa
Development Centre, where our product manufacturer,
team operates from a we’ve invested in our Postal Address: PO Box 3186, Paarl 7620,
state-of-the-art research storage, production and South Africa

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 21


INTERVIEW
IMPILOVEST

ImpiloVest - growing the health


and wellness industry in South Africa
Interview with ImpiloVest Director of Business Paul Nunes
Director of Business Development
Development, Paul Nunes

I
mpiloVest was founded to year-long study that examines the recreational cannabis usage have proved
provide a holistic approach to effectiveness of medical cannabis as to be a challenge for decision-makers.
creating value throughout the an alternative to opioids for chronic Regulation to legalise commercial activities
entire supply chain of health pain management. In addition to as regards the production, sale, marketing,
and wellness companies. The demonstrating therapeutic efficacy and distribution of recreational cannabis in
company’s business model was and pain relief, the objective is South Africa should as a collective deliver
founded on a vision to create value to provide credible, reliable, and on the needs of key stakeholders within the
from source to shelf by providing verifiable data to the relevant recreational cannabis value chain. Beyond
quality solutions in health and wellness. authorities to regulate the availability regulation, there are several other areas of
The Director of Business Development, of medicinal cannabis. strategic interventions required for
Paul Nunes, shares with Public Sector the development of the recreational
Leaders how they are making a positive Since the cannabis industry has cannabis industry.
impact on people’s lives, communities, become more customer-centric and
and the environment. customer-facing over the past few WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT
years as patients, consumers, and WHAT YOU DO?
PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE society have become more educated, The chance to really make a difference in
AND RESPONSIBILITIES. the industry has seen significant the health of people and to contribute to
I focus on business growth and growth. In collaboration with the communities by creating job opportunities.
performance by researching and Releaf Cannabis E-Clinics, a member
delivering profitable solutions which of the ImpiloVest group, participants
will drive sales in all sectors of of the latest groundbreaking study WHAT EXCITING PLANS
ImpiloVest. I build and develop a solid will have access to their medicinal DO YOU HAVE FOR 2023?
corporate brand image and focus on cannabis through the study. Patients We will look to grow the health and
customer retention and future growth who register for the study will not be wellness industry in South Africa. Health,
opportunities for the business. charged for their medication as part food and beverage will be the focus of
of the sponsorship. ImpiloVest’s newest division, Afritaste. We
IMPILOVEST IS AN INTERESTING would want to have a resolution on the
NAME – DOES IT REFER WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATE state of the Cannabis market and see how
TO HEALTH? OF THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY IN we can assist in its development as a front-
It’s a direct translation of Zulu, meaning SOUTH AFRICA? runner in this category.
health, expressing their commitment Cannabis or cannabis-derived
to revolutionising complementary and products are still very much in
alternative medicine in South Africa. their infancy and have struggled
with numerous challenges in
PLEASE UNPACK SOUTH attempts to industrialise the industry.
AFRICA’S FIRST OBSERVATIONAL CBD as a cannabinoid was the first
CLINICAL TRIAL ON MEDICAL to have a scheduled framework
CANNABIS – WHAT IT MEANS, attached to it. However, I feel the CONTACT DETAILS
ITS IMPORTANCE, TIMEFRAME dosage limits allocated to it are
Physical Address: 3 Rose Street,
AND IMPACT. extremely conservative and it has Wellington 7655
The Cannabis Research Institute of caused efficacy issues at patient level.
South Africa (CRI) has sponsored a Complexities around the regulation of Email: info@impilovest.co.za

22 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Brainfood
for business.
Take a journey away from short
termism and start looking at a better
future. Meet the interesting people
changing Africa – and the way we work,
think and live.

To listen to the
Business Unusual
podcasts,
Scan Here
BEE Procurement
By Jessie Taylor

New regulations to
give departments more
discretion in procurement

T
reasury has announced Reviewing the regulations the changes required state entities
new regulations Minister Godongwana said the to procure from local suppliers,
around procurement, new regulations allow government even in the case of imported items
which will come into departments and state-owned or items that could only be sourced
effect in January. enterprises to determine their own from a global supplier.
preferential procurement policies.
The updated regulations The change in regulations came The litigation centred around the
are still focused on Black after a Constitutional Court ruling. argument that the 2017 preferential
Economic Empowerment (BEE) procurement regulations were
criteria in public procurement, The ruling looked at changes made harmful policies resulting in the
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana in 2017 to the Act, originally passed misallocation of funds away
has stressed, but they also provide in 2000. The 2017 overhaul of the from maximum value-for-money
for more departmental discretion regulations saw two key changes. for the public. Setting aside the
in tendering. The first stipulated that companies regulations now gives organs of the
awarded tenders above R30-million state constitutional discretion in
The regulations will act as were obliged to subcontract 30% the procurement process, allowing
a placeholder until the of the contract value to benefit the them to choose value-driven and
adoption of new legislation previously disadvantaged, women, effective solutions relevant to the
around procurement. youth and the disabled. Secondly, communities they serve.

24 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


The Constitutional Court ruled The regulations, under the
in February this year that the Preferential Procurement Policy
2017 changes were to be set Framework Act (PPPFA), still
Procurement is a complex
aside, as policy changes favour companies with BEE status.
and highly contested
cannot be made in ministerial The regulations state that the
regulations. The court gave the arena in South Africa government must award extra
finance minister until February points during the scoring of tenders
2023 to make rectifications, and for black-empowered firms. For
Treasury has since reinstated contracts valued at under R50-
the 2000 regulations. “In essence, the 2022 regulations million, firms can score up to
are a placeholder while we finalise an extra 20% on the scorecard
The revision of the regulations the Bill.” if they are fully black-owned
mean that government and empowered. For contracts
departments and state-owned Focus on value for money above R50-million, they can score
companies will still be able to The latest regulations specify that an additional 10%. This rule has
operate in a middle ground an organ of state must, in the been in place since the Act was
between the two versions of tender documents, stipulate the promulgated in 2000.
the legislation. The 80:20 and applicable preference point system
90:10 BEE system remains a fixed as envisaged in the regulations; The regulations allow for
requirement, but departments and the specific goals in the departments and state-owned
will now be able to include invitation to submit the tender for companies to add preferential
preconditions as part of their which points may be awarded. criteria when awarding tenders, so
procurement policy, should long as these criteria advance the
they wish, such as the “It should be noted that these country’s developmental goals, as
pre-qualification for tenders, Regulations deal with preferential stated in the Reconstruction and
30% sub-contracting to designated procurement in terms of the PPPFA. Development Programme (RDP)
groups, and local procurement The new 2022 Regulations require of 1994. This allows departments
clauses in the 2017 regulations. organs of state in the development and state-owned companies to
of their procurement policies award points to companies that
This status quo will remain in to also consider specific the subcontract to small and medium-
place until the Public Procurement programmes [sic] stipulated in the sized enterprises, for example.
Bill is passed in Parliament next Reconstruction and Development
year. This Bill is likely to standardise Programme as published in “Procurement is a complex and
procurement policies across Government Gazette No 16085 highly contested arena in South
state entities and is expected dated 23 November 1994 and Africa. Much of it is steeped in
to be presented by March provides for points to be awarded legalese and technical language.
next year. for specific goals,” Treasury says. It is no accident that the Zondo
“In addition to maximising value- Commission published a dedicated
“While we are finalising the for-money objectives, a further report on public procurement
Public Procurement Bill, which objective is to regulate preferential and made significant findings.
will empower the Minister of procurement anew in the draft The Minister of Finance, as well
Finance to set preferential Public Procurement Bill (among as the National Treasury and
procurement, the 2022 regulations others repealing the PPPFA) and, the Government, remain wholly
repeal the 2017 regulations and as announced during the MTBPS, is committed to transformation and
take effect on 16 January 2023,” to be introduced in Parliament by empowerment as envisioned in the
says Minister Godongwana. March 2023.” Constitution,” the Treasury says.

Sources: News24 | Sakeliga | Treasury | Engineering News | BizNews

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 25


ADVERTORIAL
NJMPF

KwaZulu-Natal Joint
Municipal Pension/
Provident Funds
T
he KwaZulu-Natal Joint
Giving members a choice Municipal Pension/
Provident Funds (NJMPF)
is a leader amongst its
peers in the industry.
We are responsible for three funds,
namely; the Natal Joint Municipal
Pension Fund (Superannuation),
Natal Joint Municipal Pension Fund
(Retirement), which are both defined
benefit funds with guaranteed
predictable benefits.

The KwaZulu-Natal Joint Municipal


Provident Fund is a defined
contribution fund. In the Provident
Fund, the fund credit (retirement
savings) depends on employer and
employee contributions, interest
on investments and returns by the
fund, where the member bears the
investment risk.

The three funds provide pension


benefits for municipal employees
in the province of KwaZulu-Natal,
give members a choice of products,
rate of contributions and the facility
to transfer between the three
funds according to changing life
circumstances.

It has gained recognition


for its consistent excellence,
amongst others; in governance,
communications and education/
training practices, treating

26 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


KWAZULU-NATAL
JOINT MUNICIPAL
RETIREMENT FUND
The Retirement Fund was
established in 1967 as a defined
contribution fund and was
subsequently converted into a
defined benefit fund for the lower
income members, in 1975. At which
time the payment of lump sums
and monthly pensions commenced
upon the early retirement of
members at age 55 to normal
retirement at age 65, and to spouses
upon the death of members, subject
to the provisions of the regulations,
calculated on salary and service.

KWAZULU-NATAL
JOINT MUNICIPAL
PROVIDENT FUND
The Provident Fund was established
in 1996 as a defined contribution
fund, and provides lump sum
benefits only, upon the retirement or
death of members, based on total
accruals in respect of contributions
paid by both member and employer,
plus profit and interest earned.

customers fairly and investment well as Africa Investor (Ai), CFI, The
performance/practices. Over European, European CEO, Stevie
the years, NJMPF has notched up Awards and Innovation Awards by CONTACT DETAILS
a commendable list of awards the World Pension Summit. Address: 08610 65673
in the industry, both locally and
internationally. NATAL JOINT MUNICIPAL International: +27 31 279 5300
PENSION FUND Fax: 031 266 6715

(SUPERANNUATION) Email: info@njmpf.co.za


The NJMPF has been acknowledged The Superannuation Fund was
for excellence by the Institute of established in 1942 as a defined Physical Address:
Retirement Funds Africa (IRFA), benefit fund, and provides lump sum 5 Derby Place, Derby Downs Office Park,
University Road, Westville, KwaZulu Natal
Standard Bank – Top Business and monthly pension benefits upon
Awards, Council for Retirement the retirement or death of members, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 33
Funds in South Africa (Batseta) as calculated on salary and service. Westwood 3633

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 27


In case you missed it, our annual Standard Bank Top Women
Conference took place on the 12 -13 October 2022. Here is a look at just
some of the highlights throughout the 2-day conference:

We trended No. #1
on South Africa’s Twitter
trends throughout the
conference

Over 47 000 views on


our Instagram Filters
and Stickers

We dropped our very


first Swag Bag - and
completley sold out!
Over 15 000 photos
were taken by our
Amazing delegates at the Virtual
feedback on all Photo Booth
platforms from
our delegates

We hosted SA’s most influential


women such as Zozibini Tunzi,
Terry Pheto & Shannon Esra

Givewaways from
partners including
Uber, MSC,
Veldskoen & more

Scan the code to


watch the official
highlights video

Brought to you by topco


media In partnership with
World AIDS Day
By Jessie Taylor

Injecting healthcare with a


new dose of HIV prevention
30 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023
A
new form of HIV initially targeted sex workers and access prevention measures such
prevention is expected men having sex with men. While as PrEP, as their guardians feel they
to be piloted in this initial rollout provided essential should not be having sex and prevent
South Africa early information on how to scale the them from using the treatment.
next year, which could treatment to other groups, the focus
transform the country’s strategy on populations who were largely The injection removes this stigma.
to prevent infection among stigmatised has impacted the public Administered at a clinic, it will give
HIV-negative patients. perception of oral PrEP. Today, it is women and girls access to a treatment
still incorrectly perceived by many as which is safe and judgement-free. It
The pilot project, announced by a treatment used by those who are also mitigates fears that pills will be
international medicine financing promiscuous or unfaithful to misinterpreted for HIV treatment and
initiative Unitaid and planned to their partners. cause the patient to suffer stigma,
start early next year, will trial the discrimination, or intimate partner
antiretroviral cabotegravir injection An estimated eight million South violence as a result.
administered every second month. Africans are living with HIV. Globally,
By targeting young women, the HIV prevention efforts have stalled The injection has had the support
pilot project holds the promise of with 1.5 million new HIV infections in of the World Health Organisation,
preventing new infections as well 2021 – the same as in 2020. There which has called on countries to
as changing the stigma around are around 4000 new infections consider it as a safe and effective
pre-exposure prophylaxis every day. prevention option for people at risk
(PrEP) usage. of HIV infection

Fighting stigma Clinical trials of cabotegravir,


through science taken every second month, have
Recent modelling suggests that as The South African shown that participants were about
many as 52 000 new HIV infections programme will include a 80% less likely to contract the virus. In
could be prevented over 20 years second new long-acting addition, it was found to be much more
across the country if the injection HIV prevention product accessible than taking pills every day,
is found to be effective. In order to targeted at adolescent girls the World Health Organization found.
test its efficacy, Wits Reproductive and young women
Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI) The pilot will only commence once
and the national Health Department the injection has been approved by
are expected to begin providing the South African Health Products
injections to young women as part of In South Africa, women make up over Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), which
a Unitaid-funded project. 60% of all new HIV cases. Adolescent is expected to take place early next
girls and young women, who will year. It was approved by the United
PrEP in tablet form has been available be the target of the Unitaid-funded States Food and Drug Administration
in South Africa since 2016. It is widely efforts in South Africa, become in December last year. The Wits RHI
available and extremely effective infected at a disproportionately pilot, which will see the shot provided
when taken correctly – in fact, it can high rate. In sub-Saharan Africa, in some public health facilities and
reduce a person’s risk of contracting six in seven new HIV infections in mobile clinics, is expected to be the
HIV by 99%. adolescents occur among girls, and first of several projects to see how best
young women are twice as likely to to roll out the injection.
South Africans using oral PrEP be living with HIV as their male peers.
accounted for about one in ten The vulnerability of this group is the The South African programme will
people globally in 2020. reason why women and adolescent include a second new long-acting
girls have been chosen as the first HIV prevention product targeted at
However, healthcare professionals group to access the injectable PrEP. adolescent girls and young women:
have had to contend with the stigma The dapivirine vaginal ring, which
around the treatment. This is partly Focusing on vulnerable groups lasts for 28 days and can be inserted
due to the rollout programme, which Young girls especially struggled to at home.

Sources: Unitaid| AIDSmap| Dailymaverick| IOL|News24|WHO

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 31


TRAILBLAZER
BY SINAZO MKOKO

Free State MEC for


Education, Dr Tate Makgoe
“I want to raise the bar higher and higher.”

32 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


T
he Free State Education is a symbol of appreciation for one’s
Department sits on the capacity to guide and motivate others
shoulders of the MEC to excel, with a proven commitment
for Basic Education in to serving and contributing to the
the province, Dr Pule development of our country, our
Herbert Makgoe. Affectionately province and our communities,”
known as Tate, Dr Magkoe has taken he said.
the matric results in the province to
greater heights with 2021 marking
three consecutive years in which the Speaking at the provincial matric
province has taken the number one prayer service at Kgolathuto Senior
spot for matric results in the country. Secondary school in Phuthaditjhaba,
Maluti a Phofung Local Municipality,
Dr Makgoe was appointed in 2009 ahead of the 2022 matric final exams,
as the MEC for Education in the Free the Minister of Education, Angie
State. He’s always been passionate Dr Tate Makgoe Motshekga said the Free State makes
about education and believes that it’s an invaluable contribution to the
one of the “ingredients to take people overall quality of the matric results we
out of abject poverty.” produce as a country.
world-renowned University of South
His life is devoted to the Africa (Unisa) and later obtained an “The Free State continues to set the
disadvantaged and marginalised in Honours degree from the University of bar extremely high, and the level of
order to fully realise the objectives of the Free State, and a Master’s degree excellence propels the entire country
true political transformation and the in Business Leadership from Unisa. He upward. The consistency of the
total eradication of grinding poverty. was also awarded with an honorary Free State shows robustness and a
doctorate in Business Administration systematic approach to producing
Upon his appointment, he said: “We by the VUT Faculty of Management excellence. There’s nothing more
have to make education comparable Sciences. Dr Makgoe praised teachers important to the country than our
and comparative. The department is in the province for their contribution children and the Free State has made
going to make difficult decisions to to the province’s education system a telling investment in the education
improve the existing situation. And in stating that they were the “lifeblood of its youth,” she said.
dealing with the existing problems, of the education system in the
some of the solutions may not be in Free State.” For the 2022 matric results, the
everyone’s favour. We have to raise province aims to achieve a 90%
the morals of our officials for them In 2021, he was conferred the pass rate and remain the leading
to be able to give the teachers all Chancellor’s Excellence Award by the province country.
the support they need, to produce Central University of Technology, Free
quality education. We need to work State (CUT) for his sterling leadership “We are destined to succeed and
together as a team to overcome all excellence and immense contribution nothing will stop us, we have a
the shortcomings.” to the advancement of education, not good strategy that we have been
only in the province but nationally, as improving annually. Our strategy looks
To this day, the province continues to his work has touched communities simple at face value, but is difficult
produce excellent results for matrics and institutions alike. to implement. It needs dedicated
in the country and has taken the leadership, teachers, administrators
number one spot in the country in “Growing up in the dusty township and pupils.
various years, including; 2013, 2016, of Tumahole, Parys, I could not
2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021. have possibly imagined that one “I aim to achieve a 90% pass rate.
day I’d be standing in front of I want to raise the bar higher and
The leader holds a Bachelor of esteemed academics, receiving this higher. It is achievable. We are ready
Commerce degree from the distinguished award. This accolade to reach it.”

Sources: SA Gov | VUT | CUT | The Insider

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 33


WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
BY SINAZO MKOKO

First Officer Refilwe Moreetsi and Captain Annabel Vundla.

“The aircraft doesn’t know


your gender” Two SA pilots proved their mettle,
paving a way for many others

O
n Tuesday, the The two trailblazers who made Their stories couldn’t be more
25th of October, history are South African Airways similar as this was a childhood
history was made in (SAA) pilots, Captain Annabel dream for both of them. For Captain
South Africa. For the Vundla and First Officer Refilwe Vundla, it all started when she was
first time, in 88 years, Moreetsi. Public Sector Leaders only seven years old when she
two black women operated a flight spoke with the pair to find where it visited the airport for the first time.
from Johannesburg to Cape Town. all began. “When I first got to the airport, I saw

34 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


the cabin crew looking so smart in an office. But my father told me
and asked my mother what they did that I can do whatever I want,” she
and she explained it to me. I asked shares.
if they travel by plane to which my
mother answered ‘yes’. As I was Sharing the challenges they’ve South Africans can
talking to my mother, I noticed two encountered in the male- feel proud of a national
white males behind these cabin dominated industry, the pair say carrier that is truly
crew wearing uniforms [sic], I asked that being constantly undermined represented of
what they did and my mother said remained a challenge for women
our diversity
they flew the planes and I was in this industry. “As a woman and,
amazed. “I told my mother that I of course as a black woman, that
wanted to do that instead and get won’t be taken away anytime soon.
to travel the world,” she says. And overall, that is the biggest
challenge; constantly being overdue it was a great moment
First Officer Moreetsi recalls a undermined because I come from a for them and the positive feedback
similar memory, except that she background of the military. I’m not that they got from the public
was going on a holiday to Durban fazed by it because the training is and communities, from villages,
when she realised that this is what hard and tough. On top of that, you townships and schools, showed
she wanted to do. “My first flight are learning how to plan everything. them how big this was. “It means a
was on the South African Airways So I’m not fazed by that and I know lot for a young black girl to see and
flight to Durban. And at the end of how to address certain situations. know that this is attainable for them
the flight, I went to the flight deck. Whether you’re a captain or a first because they’ve seen somebody
And I saw that flight deck, all those officer, you are undermined,” says that looks like them doing and
buttons and for me, that day, in Captain Vundla. my race is not a barrier. We are
1994, I decided this is what I wanted happy that it’s finally out there
to do,” she says. Mooretsi added that people will tell and it will be an inspiration to
you directly or indirectly that you not only children but to society
Moreetsi says she was fortunate do not belong purely based on the as a whole.”
to have had the support of her agenda of your race. “And one thing
parents. She states: “My parents’ I always say is that the aircraft does SAA CEO and Chairperson,
support is what really pushed me not know your gender. At the end Professor John Lamola, said this
and kept me sane, because they of the day, when you’re flying that was a milestone in the
encouraged me, although other aircraft or when you’re on that flight transformation of the national
individuals or teachers weren’t so deck, the only thing that matters carrier. “The airline continues to
encouraging, my parents pushed is your knowledge, skills and your show leadership in transforming
me and as a young kid that is a experience. And so for me, this the aviation sector and overcoming
huge deal when your parents push negativity that came from these inequalities in scarce skills and
you up. That’s why I never wanted certain individuals, only fuelled the employment opportunities.”
to do anything else because I had fire in me to achieve my dreams
people who believed in me.” and in the process even aim for SAA Executive for Human
higher,” she says. Resources, Mpho Letlape,
However, in Captain Vundla’s case, added: “South Africans can
there was a little bit of fear from her Despite this, both women proved feel proud of a national carrier
mother. “My mother is a traditional their mettle and became the that is truly represented of our
woman, she told me that it was first two black women to operate diversity and we celebrate that.
too dangerous and it’s a field for a commercial flight from SAA is a non-discriminatory,
men. She asked how was I going to Johannesburg to Cape Town. non-racial, equal opportunities
settle down and said I needed to Touching on that historic moment, employer with a strategic
get married and have kids and work Mooresti said, while it was long transformational role.”

Sources: SAA

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 35


Road Safety
By Jessie Taylor

A renewed focus on
festive season road safety
Road safety tips

A
nnually, thousands Efforts centred on In an effort to reduce road deaths
die on South African reducing road deaths this year, both national and provincial
roads over the festive During the last festive season, there governments are stepping up visibility
season. To ensure were 1 685 deaths on the country’s and enforcement operations.
those travelling roads – during a period of just 42
to celebrate with their loved days. This saw the death toll rise by Police Minister Bheki Cele recently
ones arrive safe and sound, the 14% from the 2020 holiday period. launched the 2022 safer festive
government has announced a Seven provinces saw an increase season operational plan, ushering
range of safety measures to prevent in fatalities, but most of the deadly in a season of heightened visibility
road accidents this year. accidents took place in the Northern countrywide. He announced that
Cape and Western Cape. the plan would run in tandem
with intensified, integrated
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula said crime prevention and crime
most of the fatalities were caused combating operations.
by jaywalking, speeding on wet and
The City of Cape Town has
slippery roads, overtaking across The campaign, which will run until
launched an automated
barrier lines and poor visibility. Many the end of January, looks to mobilise
highway patrol unit
of the accidents were caused by a maximum resources to ensure safety
single motor vehicle overturning and and security for communities across
head-on collisions. the country.

36 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


One focus area of the plan is “The vision of government is vividly the Pongola horrific
enforcing by-laws and ensuring ensuring that the people of accident [sic]. The multiple truck
the enforcement of road safety KwaZulu-Natal live in a safe and accidents a few weeks ago claimed
together with metro and national secure environment,” she said.Premier more lives. Our roads cannot be
traffic law enforcement officers. Dube-Ncube called for stakeholders turned into mass graves and places
to play a role in reducing road of untimely deaths. The Road Traffic
A proactive approach to safety accidents. “We call on the road freight Inspectorate has a huge responsibility
Ahead of the festive season, the industry to attend to the issue of to make every road user feel that
City of Cape Town has launched errant truck drivers whose negligent when in KwaZulu-Natal you drive
an automated highway patrol driving has taken many lives in the responsibly or face the music,”
unit. The unit can automatically province recently. We remember she said.
track motorists with outstanding
warrants, as well as identify
duplicate or cloned licence plates. Road safety tips for the festive season
Many South Africans will be taking to the roads to travel to loved ones
The 32-member strong unit will over the festive season. To ensure your safety, as well as that of fellow
be used to enforce traffic laws road users, follow these safety tips.
and to assist motorists who find
• Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s license with you.
themselves in emergency situations
• Plan the route to your holiday destination well in advance, and
during the holiday season.
allow yourself enough time to reach the destination. Try to avoid
driving after dark.
In Gauteng, Premier Panyaza
Lesufi launched the province’s • Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before
festive season campaign with departure. Check that all lights and indicators, windscreens,
the aim of educating the public windscreen wipers, brakes, steering, shock absorbers, exhaust
on road safety and ensuring system and tyres are in good working condition.
fewer fatalities during this • Ensure you are well rested when you embark on your journey, and
festive season. take regular breaks while travelling. It is recommended to take a
break every two hours or 200km.
Premier Lesufi said that all • As the driver, always wear your seat belt and ensure that all
resources in the province would passengers are also wearing theirs.
be mobilised to fight crime and
• Drive defensively and try to recognise potentially dangerous
promised that CCTV cameras
drivers on the road, and keep well clear of them. Also, keep an eye
and drones would be employed
open for pedestrians alongside the road.
to ensure safety in the province.
He added that six helicopters • Maintain at least a 2-second following distance - this distance
would be made available to should be increased at night, in foggy or rainy conditions and when
fight lawlessness over the the road is wet.
festive season. • Always adhere to the speed limit, as driving too fast or too slowly
can be a potential hazard. Only overtake when it is absolutely safe
In KwaZulu-Natal, Premier to do so.
Nomusa Dube-Ncube has • Drive with your lights on. This will make you more visible to other
warned that law enforcement drivers.
agencies will be increasingly
• Always be prepared for emergencies and keep an emergency kit in
active this festive season. She
your vehicle.
said there would be heightened
law enforcement visibility across • Never drink and drive.
the province, with a focus on • Avoid distractions while driving, such as using a cellphone.
provincial and national roads.

Sources: Business Tech | The Citizen | SA Gov | Western Cape Gov | Arrive Alive | EWN

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 37


Volunteering
By Koketso Mamabolo

Four organisations
that could
use your help this
festive season

C
hristmas and the New Year HPSA By providing rural communities with
are around the corner and Formerly known as Heifer livestock, they bridge the hunger
while for many it has been South Africa, HPSA has been gap through animal products such
a year of recovery, there on a mission to end hunger as “milk, eggs, meat and honey”.
are many who will need a and poverty since it was founded They also educate communities
helping hand to recover from more in 2001. The new, simplified about managing water and assist
than just the devastating effects of name follows a review that with infrastructure including tanks
the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout was conducted recently, but and boreholes. The work goes even
the year, there are opportunities their goal remains the same. deeper, with a focus on empowering
to offer up your time to help those Over the years they’ve helped women, setting up sustainable
in need, and if you haven’t done more than 18.5 million families development programmes, as well
so already, the festive season is a overcome hunger and poverty. as education and training.
perfect time for you to start making “We believe all people deserve
a difference. Here are some places dignity, opportunity, and a For more information on how you
where you can volunteer and bring future free from hunger,” can donate or volunteer your time,
some cheer to others. says HPSA. visit hpsa.org.za

38 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


helping the people who come to
the shelter with forming a personal
The festive season is
development plan.
a perfect time for you
to start making For more information on how you
a difference can get involved, visit haven.org.za

TLC Children’s Home


holistic community development, For almost three decades, TLC
tackling a wide range of issues Children’s Home has been
countering social and economic providing “attachment-based,
inclusion”. trauma-informed” care to children
and babies. The home runs on
Khulisa Social Solutions doesn’t view a family-orientated approach,
social issues in isolation, instead, rescuing abandoned children.
they take a unique approach to “Since 1993, we have helped over
community development which 900 abandoned babies find forever
seeks to align policy, service delivery homes. Building on our legacy, we
and support systems. recently moved to a new property
that is better suited to the excellent
For more information on Khulisa services we provide our babies,”
Social Solutions, and information says TLC Children’s Home.
on how you can play your part, visit
khulisa.org.za A team of 40 cares for the children
full-time, and the annual cost of
The Haven Night Shelter running the facility is R9 million. Over
Cape Town is a popular tourist the years, almost a thousand babies
destination, not only for international have been cared for at the home.
travellers but for locals as well. If They have a close relationship with
you find yourself in Cape Town this social workers at the Department
festive season, offering your time at of Social Development, who bring
the Haven Night Shelter is a great children from different backgrounds
Khulisa Social Solutions way to give back. The shelter’s to TLC.
With a national footprint - including history goes back to the late 70s.
over 180 staff members, working in “We also help to support about
around 150 communities - Khulisa “Our method is to make temporary 30 other ‘TLC children who, over
Social Solutions is a non-profit shelter, rehabilitation opportunities, the years, have been placed into the
organisation focused on vulnerable social welfare services, family care of the TLC founding family.
young people and communities at reunification services, physical
large. In the beginning, they were care and support available to adult As they reach adulthood we work
geared towards helping young people living on the streets who are hard to support and encourage their
offenders by establishing the committed to reintegration,” says independence as they gradually
country’s first official rehabilitation the shelter. phase out of their dependency on
programme specific to the youth. the organisation,” says TLC.
With 15 shelters across the city,
They have since broadened their their reach allows them to help For more information on how you
focus incorporating “peace-making as many people as are willing to can volunteer your time or make a
and restorative approaches, to be helped. Social workers assist in donation, visit tlc.org.za

Sources: HPSA | Khulisa Social Solutions | Haven Night Shelter | TLC

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 39


Festive season activities
By Jessie Taylor

10 ways to explore
South Africa with
your family this 3
festive season Ceres Steam Train
There are less harrowing ways to
Try one, or all, of these activities to create see the South African countryside t
hat younger children will love, such
magical family memories this festive season as a ride on a steam train through
the Cape Winelands. The trip from
Cape Town to the Elgin Valley will take
you back to a bygone era, on
The Kimberley Big Hole a steam-train line that was first
If you’re taking a journey into the opened in 1862.
past, you must give the Kimberley
Big Hole a visit. The Big Hole tells the
story of South Africa’s diamond rush
and when thousands of prospectors

1
descended on the Northern Cape
town and created the largest hand-
dug excavation in the world. The
mine is 463 meters wide, with a

4
depth of 240 meters, and was active
between 1871 to 1914. It is considered
Constitution Hill one of the deepest cavities
Constitution Hill is an incredible excavated by man. Neighbouring
glimpse into the past, hidden in the the Big Hole is the Kimberley Mine
heart of Johannesburg, and provides Museum, which will teach your
the opportunity for a family outing little ones about South Africa’s rich Cradle of Humankind
steeped in history. The home of the mineral heritage. Travelling further back into our past
Constitutional Court, the precinct requires a visit to Maropeng, the
includes several prisons that held visitor centre for the famous Cradle of
numerous world-renowned men and Humankind World Heritage Site. Only
women, including Nelson Mandela, an hour outside of Johannesburg,
Mahatma Gandhi, Joe Slovo, Albertina this site is considered the birthplace
Sisulu, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela of humanity and has evidence of
and Fatima Meer. The prisons at Old life dating back more than three
Fort, Women’s Jail and Number Four billion years. This educational tour will

2
held thousands of people over a 100- allow you to explore some of the 13
year period and today are open to the excavated sites in the area, including
public in the form of a living museum the famous Sterkfontein Caves, where
that tells the story of South Africa’s the pre-human skull, known as Mrs.
journey to democracy. Ples was found.

40 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


5 7 9
Tubing on the Sabie River Ziplining Kruger National Park
A unique way to explore South If you’re not one for getting your If you’re visiting Mpumalanga, make
Africa’s natural beauty involves feet wet, you might like to have a time to visit the Kruger National Park.
immersing yourself in it – and getting go at flying through the air. You With nearly 2 million hectares of wild
a little bit wet! Take your family on can explore some of South Africa’s spaces teaming with 147 species
the adventure of a lifetime and try most beautiful mountain areas of mammals and 508 species of
your hand at tubing along the Sabie with a ziplining canopy tour. This birds, you’re guaranteed to have
River. This river is one of the most exhilarating experience is available an unparalleled wildlife experience.
biologically diverse waterways in in the Western Cape, Drakensberg Those visiting the province can easily
South Africa and offers both an and Magaliesberg and will see you visit the national park for a day trip
educational and exciting family and your family flying through the or stay over at one of the many
activity suitable for children older treetops. This adventure is suitable accommodation options within
than 12. for children older than six. the park.

6 8 10
Bridge swings Ushaka Marine World Boulders Penguin Colony
For the more adventurous families, Those with a love of the wild Boulders Beach in Cape Town is a
bring out your inner adrenaline junkie will be equally enthralled by a popular spot for tourists and will offer
with a bridge swing. Unlike bungee visit to Ushaka Marine World your family the unique experience of
jumping, bridge swings are attached in Durban. The kids will have encountering endangered African
to a fixed point and allow you to hours of fun at the theme park Penguins up close. Take a tour of the
swing out – while less daunting; it still and will also be able to enjoy beach and learn about this iconic
gets the heart pumping! There are educational activities at the marine bird, or simply spend a day
several sites that offer this activity, aquarium, where they will learn playing in the sand and surfing.
such as Oribi Gorge in KwaZulu-Natal about South Africa’s diverse
and Bloukrans in the Eastern Cape. marine life and how to protect it.

Sources: KestellAdventures|TheBigHole|UshakaMarine|CanopyTour|Ceresrail|Constitutionhill|Dirtyboots|SanParks|
SA-venues|Wild5adventures

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 41


Money Fit
By Kathryn Main

New year,
new goals
Starting 2023 with a plan

G
oal setting is one of the you need more than a decision - you 2. To help you reach
most important habits need a plan. The plan is the guide to financial freedom
you can implement in put your decisions into action so that 3. Keep you moving forward and to
your life if you want to you can reach your goals. Learning ultimately reach your goal
progress and achieve how to set goals takes practice. 4. To have something to
the things that are important to you. work towards
Setting goals marks the beginning of A financial goal might be getting out 5. To motivate you
financial planning and gives meaning of debt, saving for a specific item
and direction. Setting financial goals you can’t afford right now like a new Setting short-term, mid-term
helps you focus on your finances and caravan for family holidays, saving and long-term financial goals
gives you something to work towards. for retirement or buying an income is an important step in securing
generating asset. your financial future. If you aren’t
For many of us, resolutions are made working toward anything specific,
as easily as they are broken. Why? Why are goals important? you’re likely to spend more than
Because a resolution is just 1. Help with focus and direction on you should. You’ll then come up
a decision. To make real changes, a personal level short when you need money for

42 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Setting short-term financial Short-term goals:
goals can give you the (3 months or less)
confidence boost and Short-term goals can be easily
foundational knowledge you achieved in a short space of time
need to achieve larger goals E.G. Save R1 500 for a pair of new
that will take more time. These pair of sunglasses
first steps are relatively easy to
achieve. Achieving small victories Medium-term goals:
will drive you to achieve your (3 months to 2 years)
medium and long-term goals. Mid-term goals are priorities that
can be accomplished within 3
Step 1: Visualise months to 2 years
your goals E.G. Saving R35 000 for a family
What does your ideal life holiday or paying off debt
look like? Visualise where
you’d like your money to take Long-term goals:
you and start jotting down some (More than 2 years
ideas. Does it include being to achieve)
debt-free? Perhaps there are Long-term financial goals are
countries you’d like to visit, sports priorities that may take more
events you would like to attend. than 2 years to accomplish.
You might see yourself buying a Most long-term goals require
new boat or renovating your regular savings.
home. Your dream could be to
E.G. Saving for retirement,
send your kids to a different school.
saving for your child’s
university education
Think big and small. Your
goals do not have to be
long-term or complicated to
be worthwhile. In fact, it’s II. Avoid goals that are
important to have a mix of too general
goals. This is your life and your Goals need to be specific and
financial goals are yours. actionable. For example, if your
goal is to be debt-free, specify
unexpected expenses, or when you Step 2: Get practical exactly which debts you’re going
want to retire. You might get stuck about your goals to reduce this year and by how
in a vicious cycle of debt and feel I. Avoid goals that are much. If your goal is to have
like you never have enough money unreachable savings, specify how much
to meet expenses, leaving you As you review your list, you you’re going to save and how
more vulnerable. will notice that some goals often, where you will save the
are going to take more effort money and how long it
and time than others. Those should take.
goals that are the hardest
to achieve are called III. Avoid goals that are outside of
Goals need to be specific “stretch goals.” Stretch goals your control
and actionable can be great for changing Avoid goals that rely on factors
behaviours or breaking out of outside of your control (e.g.
negative patterns but having winning the lottery). Focus only
too many of them in your goal on outcomes you can directly
list can be demotivating. influence by your own actions.

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 43


For example, if your goal is to Examples
find a higher paying job, focus 1. Goal: To have savings in the bank.
on the behaviours required to SMART goal: I am saving R500 from each paycheck for my emergency fund. By
get the job you desire. the end of this year, I will have R6 000 in my emergency fund account.

IV. Prioritise your goals in order 2. Goal: To cut back my social spending after the New Year.
of importance SMART goal: For January and February: I am taking my own lunch to work;
Ask yourself: What goals can I budgeting R80 a week for going out which I will pay myself in cash every Friday;
start working towards taking my credit card out of my wallet.
immediately and what goals
can wait? It would be nice to 3. Goal: To save R50 000 for an overseas holiday
be able to achieve all your SMART goal: I am saving R1 000 per salary into my ‘holiday’ sub account so that
goals simultaneously, but life isn’t I have R50 000 for my Thailand trip in [month and date]: This year’s goal: R600
like that. The reality is that you by April; R1 200 by July; R1 800 by October; R2 400 by Dec 31.
must target your goals in order
of priority. It is always better and easier to plan one’s journey after choosing
the destination.
V. Break big goals into smaller,
more manageable goals
Big goals are great, but smaller Tips and Hints:
goals are easier to measure
• Be specific. When thinking about goals, be as exact as possible. People
and keep on track — and you
who set specific goals are more likely to succeed.
get to celebrate achieving
milestones more often! For • Put it in writing. Write down exactly what you want to achieve and post
example, if your goal this year is it in a place where you will see it every day. This will help remind you
to save R1 500 for a new fridge, of what you’re working toward. When you write, use positive terms. For
break it into 12 monthly saving example, instead of writing, “I can’t afford it” re-word your goal in more
goals of R125 per month. positive terms: “How can I afford it?”
• Set realistic goals. When you think about setting goals, make sure that
Step 3: Write down your they are within your reach. Be mindful of your finances, schedule, and
S.M.A.R.T. goals other personal affairs. Remembering these important factors will help
What is a SMART goal? A SMART goal you set realistic goals. It’s unreasonable to expect to make a lot of big
is one that is specific, measurable, changes at the same time.
attainable, relevant and time bound. • Develop an action plan. Create a timeline with steps toward your goal.
The idea behind a SMART goal is that Set deadlines for each step and cross them off as you go. Sometimes
it should capture the behaviours and just crossing things off and watching your list get smaller can give you
actions that will lead to the outcome a sense of accomplishment and help you stay motivated.
you desire.
• Believe in yourself. Stay positive about your progress. Share your goal
• S = Specific (What do I want to
with a friend and ask them to help hold you accountable.
accomplish? Why? When?
Who with?) • Be flexible. Keep in mind that setbacks can happen. Don’t get
• M = Measurable (What will discouraged and give up. Try again! Your hard work will pay off!
the outcome look like when • Ask for help. If you get stuck or need a little encouragement, don’t be
it’s complete? What are the afraid to talk about it.
milestones along the way?) • Reward yourself. Acknowledge your successes, even the
• A = Attainable (Is this goal small ones. Reaching a goal takes work and you should be
achievable/affordable?) proud of your efforts. Celebrating small achievements helps keep
• R = Relevant (Is this what I should us motivated.
be focusing on?)
• T = Time-bound (How long will it
take? What is the timeframe and Kathryn Main is the Founder and CEO of Money Savvy. Email her at
target date?) kathryn@moneysavvyhumans.co.za or visit www.moneysavvyhumans.co.za

44 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


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www.topco.co.za
Regional Focus
By Koketso Mamabolo

To the people
of KZN
President Ramaphosa
takes parliament to the Ugu
District Municipality

“h
onourable Chair, Taking it to the people their experiences, suggestions
I stand here, not The programme was and take leaders through the
only as a leader established by the National challenges they are facing.
of the district Council of Provinces (NCOP)
but as a product in 2002 as a way to bring Members of the Provincial
of the valleys and dusty villages of parliament closer to the people, Legislature, local government
Izingolweni, who clearly understands in order to increase and enrich officials and representatives
the plight of an African child, public participation in the from other spheres of
having risen from an impoverished legislative process. Community government engage with
background myself,” said , speaking members are afforded the the public on issues before
at the latest Taking Parliament to opportunity to see how parliament the sitting takes place, where
the People event, which was held in works, to give them a better they are addressed by either
the Ugu District Municipality in late understanding of how they can the President or Deputy
November. The event was attended contribute to the law-making President of the country. After
by officials from all three levels of pro-cess. They’re brought the event, the leaders are briefed
gov-ernment, including President face-to-face with legislators andthen follow-up through
Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed and the executive through site visits to see if the
the community as part of the Taking public hearings and site concerns of residents have
Parliament to the People Programme. visits where they can share been addressed.

48 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


informed the community that the municipal management
Ugu District provincial govern-ment is working and national government’s
Municipality in closely with the National Department developmental mandate.
Numbers of Water and Sanitation to resolve
the is-sues. A ‘war room’ has been “In many ways, the challenges
4 908 km² put together, meeting daily to speed
up the response.
facing residents in Ugu District
Municipality mirror those of many
the area covered by
of our municipalities countrywide,”
the municipality
“The war room has put a said the President.

112 km turnaround plan in place which


includes replacing old pipelines “That is why we should welcome
the length of the and equipment through Water the new Local Government
municipality’s coastline Services Infrastructure Grant and Municipal Systems Amendment
the Municipal Infrastructure Grants. Act, which is an important tool for
85 Some areas are complete and some improving the manner in which
the number of are budgeted in the 2022/2024 our municipalities function and
municipal wards financial year. There is in-sufficient for accountability.”
funding available to attend to all
40 areas simultaneously [sic],” the “Among other things, the
the number of traditional Premier said. “There are planned Act disallows municipal
council areas major bulk projects such as the officials from holding political
Vulamehlo Cross-Border Water office, defines competency
4 Supply Scheme (R1.1 billion) and
the Harding-Weza Water Supply
criteria for the appointment
of municipal managers and
the number of local
Scheme (R1.3 billion).” strengthens the framework
municipalities
for performance evaluation,”
In his address, which included continued the President.
sections in isiZulu, President
Ramaphosa spoke directly to The President went on to
Parliament comes to town the people of the Ugu District highlight how the Taking
“Your effort in ensuring parliament Municipality, placing their issues Parliament to the People
is taken to the ordinary citizens in the broader context of Programme allows state
is commendable and most officials to improve how they
welcome,” said Councillor respond to the concerns of the
Mthiyane. Along with President population by seeing what work
Ramaphosa, the Mayor was Did you know? has been done, and what still
joined by KwaZulu-Natal The Ugu District Municipality needs to be done.
Premier Nomsa Dube-Ncube, was recently recognised
who acknowledged the water for its efforts to implement The President’s closing remarks
challenges faced by the residents the Extended Public Works reflect his broader approach to the
of the Ugu District Municipality. Programme at the Kamoso relationship between the public
Awards. Out of 34 categories, and elected officials: “To the people
From “burst pipes, leaks, vandalism, the municipality won of the Ugu District Municipality I
illegal connections, low pressure, in 10, including the best say, ‘join hands with us to make
pump failures and load shedding performance category. local government stronger here
among other things,” the Premier and throughout the province.”

Sources: South Coast Herald | The Presidency | Agora | Ugu District Municipality

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 49


In Other News
By Sinazo Mkoko

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s


State Visit to the UK
UK and SA partnership - a story of trade,
investment, science and innovation.

M
emes of His Delivering his address to Houses of “We are grateful that the principles
Excellency, Parliament in the United Kingdom, that are represented and
President Cyril President Ramaphosa said the ties safeguarded within these hallowed
Ramaphosa, between the two countries are old halls – democracy, liberty, humanity
during his two-day and enduring. and equality – are now at the centre
state visit to the United Kingdom of our strong and dynamic bilateral
(UK) may have been circulating on He said over the past three decades, relationship. These principles not
various social media platforms, this story of the two countries has only guide our interaction with
but the President didn’t visit the been one of trade, investment, each other.
UK to play, he was there to tourism, sport, education, art, science
discuss business. and innovation. “These principles also inform
our shared perspectives on the
The President honoured the He said they see the visit as an difficulties confronting humanity
invitation from His Majesty King opportunity to celebrate the two and the opportunities for progress
Charles III with the visit that countries’ modern relationship, as and development.
commenced on Tuesday and equal partners, working together for
ended on Wednesday, the prosperity and security of “Our world today is beset by conflict
23 November. the people. and instability, by poverty and

50 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


inequality,” - President Ramaphosa. least responsibility for global Africa health partnership, signed
President Rampahosa added warming are most vulnerable to by the South African Health Minister
that collective action, within the its effects as they do not have and UK Health Secretary today at
appropriate global governance the resources needed to adapt to the Francis Crick Institute in London,
systems, is now “more important drought, floods and rising during the President of South Africa’s
than ever before.” sea levels. State Visit,” the statement read.

He said a strong partnership “And as they seek to grow, According to the statement, the UK
between South Africa and the United industrialise and diversify their and South Africa are also working
Kingdom could make a significant economies, their energy needs will together to protect global health
contribution to multilateralism and increase and the space they have to systems from the increasing threat
the achievement of consensus on reduce emissions will narrow. of climate change. UK Foreign
critical global issues. This places a responsibility on Secretary James Cleverly stated:
industrialised nations to contribute “The UK and South Africa have
“It is essential that we reform the substantial resources to low- and shown global leadership in joining
international institutions on which middle-income countries to fund together to protect people by
we rely in times of crisis and need. their climate actions. preventing the spread of dangerous
We look to the United Kingdom to diseases, and by working to halt
raise its voice in favour of more “This is not charity. It is climate change – including through
representative and more inclusive compensation for the harm the ground-breaking Just Energy
international bodies, including the done – and the harm yet to be Transition Partnership, to help
United Nations Security Council and done – to people in developing countries move away from using
global financial institutions. economies as a consequence fossil fuels.”
of the industrialisation of
“These bodies need to be better wealthy countries.
equipped to respond to the needs
According to The
of countries with developing “And because a global reduction
Presidency:
economies,” he said. Touching in emissions benefits all countries
Since 2015, the United Kingdom
on the effects of the COVID-19 and all people, it is also a necessary
has invested more than
pandemic, President Rampahosa investment in the future of
R350 million in Newton Fund
stated that the pandemic laid humanity. We greatly appreciate
partnerships with South Africa,
bare the huge disparities in wealth, the commitment of the United
reciprocated by a South African
power, technology and health Kingdom to the implementation
investment of R100 million. The
capacity. “It demonstrated both the of a just energy transition in South
activities of the Newton Fund
capabilities and the limitations of Africa.” - President Ramaphosa
include a programme to train
institutions of global governance, In a joint press release by the two
the next generation of radio
finance and development. Therefore, countries, it was confirmed that the
astronomers in Sub-Saharan
as we work to rebuild in the wake UK and South Africa will launch a
Africa, marine food security in
of the pandemic, it is essential that new agreement on health, building
the Indian Ocean, bio-medical
we address the inequality within on the work done to address climate
research and innovation, and
and between nations. Unless we act and other global challenges.
support for entrepreneurs in the
with urgency and purpose to close
informal economy.
the gap between the wealthy and “Institutions from across the UK
poor, hardship and suffering will and South Africa will undertake
Over 800 South Africans have
only deepen. Instability, conflict and research into vital issues from health
benefited from the Chevening
terror will increase,” he said. systems and financing to mental
Scholarship programme, and
health and surgery.
there are currently over 130
On inequality and climate
South African PhD candidates
change, President Ramaphosa “The projects formed part of a new
studying in the United Kingdom.
said the countries that carry the agreement to enhance the UK-South

Sources: SA Gov | The Presidency | UK Gov

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 51


Legal Matters
By Jessie Taylor

Overtime
and bonuses
What you should expect to see
on your end-of-year payslip

T
he end of the year is Here’s what you’re entitled to as Companies are not permitted
often a time to consider an employee: to reimburse the employee for
your employment the leave days except on the
package, especially Leave termination of employment.
if you’re planning to All employees are entitled to 21
take leave or are looking forward consecutive days of annual leave The leave cycle starts on the day
to a bonus. for every fully paid 12-month cycle. of employment and leave days are
This equates to 15 days each year accrued. This means the number
But many South African businesses if the employee works a five-day of leave days will start at zero and
have experienced tough financial week, or 18 days if they work a increase during the 12-month period.
times over the last two years due six-day week. Public holidays are Most employers, unless another
to the COVID-19 pandemic and not counted as leave. agreement is in place, will allow for
resulting economic downturn, and the accrual of leave at the rate of
this may affect how much your You will be paid in full during your 0.25 days per month in the case of a
employer can part with at the end leave and this will usually form five-day week worker, or 1.5 days per
of the year. part of your usual salary payment. month for a six-day week worker.

52 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


Only those employed for more than payment should be established time off in compensation of overtime.
24 hours a month for the same ahead of time and be laid Overtime pay is taxed and must
employer may take annual leave. out in your employment be clearly marked on the employee’s
Some companies may close over contract, but it is usually payslip. It may affect how much
the festive season and will require based on a percentage of the income tax an employee must pay.
employees to take their annual worker’s salary.
leave over this December and 3. Production bonus: This bonus is
January period. Employers are not measured against individual
entitled to stipulate this in your performance, but rather targets Negotiate beyond
contract. If you decide to take your or a rate of production. This your bonus
leave at another time of the year, bonus is often paid to a team South African companies and
you may have to take unpaid leave who contributes to the target workers have a tough economic
during this shutdown period. and is usually divided fairly as a climate this year, and many
lump sum split between workers, businesses may want to
Bonuses or with each employee receiving play it safe and hold back on
There is no labour law requirement the same percentage of substantial bonuses to keep the
for employers to pay bonuses. their salary. company stable.
However, many companies do have
bonus structures in place, especially Overtime If your company has decided
to incentivise staff performance. Overtime pay is money earned not to pay bonuses, that doesn’t
outside an employee’s regular mean you can’t negotiate extra
Because bonuses are considered as working hours or standard shift. benefits for yourself.
remuneration, your company must According to the Basic Conditions
deduct tax from the bonus payment of Employment Act, employees Consider approaching your
and pay it over to SARS. If the bonus may only work a maximum of 45 employer for alternative perks
is paid in a form other than cash, it hours weekly, or nine hours per day that will not require extensive
must still be declared to SARS and (excluding a lunch break) for five- financial outputs. The biggest
reflected on the employee’s tax day week workers. Those who work six bargaining chips you, as an
certificate. days a week should work eight hours employee, have are flexibility
per day (excluding lunch breaks). and career development,
There are primarily three types of Employees may work fewer hours and you can present these to
bonuses employers can pay workers, depending on their employment your employers as a way to
and they should be stipulated in contract. ease financial pressure and
your employment contract. ensure improved future career
Any time worked over the maximum prospects for both of you.
1. 13th cheque: A 13th cheque 45 hours a week or the employee’s
is essentially an additional contract is considered as overtime. Some alternatives you may like
monthly salary, or 8.33% of the All overtime is voluntary and may are flexible work arrangements,
employee’s yearly salary, paid only be worked by agreement mapped-out career
to the employee, most often in between employer and employee. progression, mentorship and
December. This payment should Employees may only work 10 hours coaching, additional time off
be stipulated in your contract of overtime a week, or three hours on and sabbaticals, or additional
and will appear on your payslip. any one day. mental health benefits.
This bonus is not tied to your
performance and is instead part Employees are entitled to Most companies will be invested
of your payment package. remuneration of 1.5 times the in finding ways to ensure they
2. Performance bonus: A normal wage rate for overtime continue to attract and retain
performance bonus is based work. Overtime work on a Sunday or talent and would likely welcome
on an employee’s individual public holiday must be remunerated creative ways to reward
performance. The conditions at twice the normal wage rate. The their employees.
around this performance and employer may also offer the worker

Sources: BusinessTech | My Wage | Labour Guide | Sage | MJ

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 53


Data privacy
By Jessie Taylor

Data privacy:
Five trends
around how
your data is
being protected

A
s our world becomes handled it also looks at what rights its personal information covered
increasingly more individuals have to privacy and their by privacy regulations in the next
digital, every online information protected. few years, according to a Ready
interaction leaves Assess report by Price Waterhouse
a trail of personal Here are five data privacy Cooper.The continent has also
data. Protecting this data has been mega trends to look seen a proliferation of data
the aim of scores of regulations out for: privacy regulations, with Kenya,
enacted across the world in recent 1. Increased regulation Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, South
years, and we’re likely to see an The EU has been at the forefront Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe and
increasing investment of time, of data privacy reform since others implementing new laws or
energy and resources into data the General Data Protection reforming older legal frameworks.
privacy over the next few years. Regulation (GDPR) was passed in
2018, with the aim of creating a These new regulations will equate
Data privacy is a form of data safer digital ecosystem through to new challenges for businesses,
protection that deals with the consumer protections. especially as data privacyimpacts
correct handling of personal fields such as advertising and
information. It focuses on the Since 2018, more than 60 marketing. The regulations are
rights of individuals and the way countries have enacted or likely to be increasingly difficult for
organisations collect, process, proposed privacy or data businesses trading internationally
store, manage and share personal protection laws. This is set to to navigate, with different
data. Not only does data privacy increase, with around 80% of the territories having different
deal with the way information is world’s population likely to have legislations in place.

54 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


There is already a global of automation technologies. The
cybersecurity talent, including global spending could increase
privacy professionals, and the to around $8 billion globally
increased demand for advanced as companies seek out more
skills could put further strain on innovative technology to
the industry. address challenges in the
data privacy landscape.
3. 3Digital trust first
With the increased focus on 5. Data localisation
data privacy, consumers are The move towards localising
Companies will expected to show preference data appears to be growing,
increasingly need towards companies that especially as the international
high-demand staff favour transparency in their transfer of data becomes
trained in STEM disciplines, data-sharing practices. more complicated under new
law and ethics Estimates are that around half regulations. Many countries are
of consumers are willing to suggesting localisation as a
switch companies because of way to protect data. They are
their data-sharing policies. implementing regulations that
require data to be kept within
Companies will find themselves a country’s borders and are
having to relook at their data becoming popular in
privacy policies in an effort to new legislation.
protect consumer data and retain
their customers. This is important if This could hamper companies
they hope to maintain their revenue operating on an international
– those that maintain digital scale, especially if they deal with
trust could see increased digital sensitive data such as health
2. Talent shortage commerce profits compared to information, as different regions
As data privacy demand grows, companies that don’t value have different
so will the demand for people data privacy.
who can apply complex privacy Data privacy impacts both
requirements to business For companies to keep their individuals and businesses. Privacy
problems. This is likely to see a consumers’ trust, they will need to laws seek to give people control
talent shortage as companies practice transparency by openly over their data and empower them
begin to redesign their operations communicating how they process to choose how it is being used, by
around trusted technology and and manage personal data whom and for what reasons. To
data ethics standards. meet this growing demand from
4. Increased investment in individuals, businesses need to look
Companies will increasingly need privacy technology at the way they process personal
high-demand staff trained in As companies work to meet data. Almost every company will
STEM disciplines, law and ethics. changing data privacy regulations, interact with personal data at some
As the fields of technology and and with the promise of retaining point and will have to ensure they
law inform the data privacy clients and increasing revenue, are compliant with regulations and
regulations, software and they will need to increase their have transparent processes in place.
hardware engineers will find investment in privacy technology.
they require privacy expertise, Estimates say that around 70% Failure to do so could result
while lawyers will need to of companies will need to invest not only in regulatory fines but
have a broader understanding in programmes that include also in the loss of customers
of technology. privacy-enhancing and and revenue.

Sources: Dataprivacymanager| Secuvy| Gartner| PWC| SNI| TheDrum

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 55


Upcoming Events
By Sinazo Mkoko

December is the month of

reconciliation
01 December 03 December 16 December

World AIDS Day International Day Day of Reconciliation


of Persons with December is known as the
The world commemorates
Disabilities “month of reconciliation”.
World AIDS Day on
1 December with an aim Disability inclusion is an December 16 was adopted
to not only remember essential condition for at the very beginning of
those who have died but upholding human rights, our democracy when
to also unite communities sustainable development, it was “envisioned that
across the globe in the and peace and security. reconciliation, peace and
fight against HIV and The International Day of stability would be a defining
show support for people Persons with Disabilities character of our new
living with HIV. The day is aims to ensure that this democratic dispensation.”
crucial as it reminds the is achieved globally. The day was celebrated for
public that HIV has not UNESCO states: “It is also the first time as a public
gone away and that there central to the promise holiday in 1995 and the
is the need to increase of the 2030 Agenda for country’s first non-racial and
awareness, fight prejudice Sustainable Development democratic government
and improve education to leave no one behind. The was tasked with promoting
to maintain and achieve commitment to realising national unity. One
the aims and objectives the rights of persons with way it aimed to do this was to
of the country as set out disabilities is not only a acknowledge the significance
in the National Strategic matter of justice; it is of the 16 December for all
Plan on HIV, STIs and TB an investment in a concerned and to rename it
2012-2016. common future.” the Day of Reconciliation.

56 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


24 January 24 January 25 January

International World Day for International


Day of Education African and Day of Women in
Observances Afrodescendant Multilateralism
Celebrated every year on Culture On 23 November 2021 when
January 24, the day provides This day aims to celebrate UNESCO’s General Conference
an opportunity to look at the many vibrant cultures adopted Resolution 41 C/57
education from a broader of the African continent declaring 25 January as the
perspective. According to and African Diasporas International Day of Women
UNESCO, the day is created around the world, and in Multilateralism. The
to campaign for better promotes them as purpose of this Day is to
education reforms and an effective lever for recognise the essential role
improve access to education sustainable development, played by women in the
for all. It’s a day to celebrate dialogue and peace. promotion of human rights,
and advocate for access to The African heritage peace and sustainable
education.”The day is a call for is a rich source of the development within the
action — bringing individuals, world’s shared heritagea multilateral system. UNESCO
civil society, and policymakers and “promoting African is committed to provide a
to take solid steps towards and Afrodescendant global platform to open up
ensuring that primary and culture is crucial for horizons for new generations
secondary education is the development of of women and enable them
given to children, as well as the continent, and for to co-shape multilateral
improving youth engagement humanity as a whole,” decisions that will have an
in education.” says UNESCO. impact on the future.

Sources: SA Gov |Dirco | UNESCO|National Today| SA History

December 2022/January 2023 | Public Sector Leaders | 57


EDITORIAL
BY FIONA WAKELIN

Who are the top 5


wealthiest women
in Africa?
And who has tumbled from the top?

L
ooking at the list of the richest women in Africa, what is striking is that acquiring
billionaire status does not happen overnight. Everyone featured here has spent a
lifetime investing in, and growing, their entrepreneurial empires. Silver hair and
gold in the bank!

1. FOLORUNSHO ALAKIJA - A NIGERIAN BILLIONAIRE

Fifty years ago Folorunsho started out in the fashion industry and today her
business interests include real estate, oil and gas and printing.

She is the owner of several groups of companies including Dayspring Property


Development Company Limited, a real estate company which owns properties
around the globe, as well as Rose of Sharon Prints and Promotions.

Folorunsho is also Executive Director of FAMFA Oil, her family-owned oil


production company.

2. NGINA KENYATTA - THE MOTHER OF CURRENT KENYAN


PRESIDENT, UHURU KENYATTA

Nearing her ninth decade Ngina Kenyatta is a billionaire with a portfolio


which includes investments, banking, media and the dairy industry.
“Mama Kenyatta” has a 24.91% share in the Commercial Bank of Africa
(CBA) – she also owns shares in Media Max, a media company that owns
K24 TV, Kameme Radio, and The People newspaper.

58 | Public Sector Leaders | December 2022/January 2023


3. HAJIA BOLA SHAGAYA WHO ALSO HAILS FROM NIGERIA

With a current net worth of almost a billion US, Hajia Bola started out as
an auditor for the Central Bank of Nigeria and then her entrepreneurial
verve kicked in! She started an empire by importing Konica photographic
equipment for resale. Nearly 40 years later she is CEO of Bolmus Group
International with interests in oil, real estate, banking, and photography.
Hajia founded Practoil Limited, and in 2005 became its managing director.
Today Practoil is one of the largest importer and distributors of base oil in
Nigeria today.

4. WENDY APPELBAUM IS THE RICHEST WOMAN IN SOUTH


AFRICA AND THE 4TH WEALTHIEST ON THE CONTINENT

Wendy Appelbaum is the daughter of Liberty Group founder Donald Gordon


and the owner and Chair of De Morgenzon Wine Estate. Previously, Wendy also
served as the Deputy-Chairman of the Women’s Investment Portfolio Limited
(Wiphold Limited), which is a renowned women’s investment holding company
that is listed on JSE. Overall, Wendy is also a director of Sphere Holdings
(Pty) Ltd, which is a black empowerment company addressing financial
services in mining sectors. In 2015, she was awarded both the Forbes Woman
Businesswoman of the Year, and the Forbes Africa Woman of the Year.

5. WENDY ACKERMAN – FMCG POWERHOUSE

Wendy Ackerman is one of the founders and an Executive Director


of Pick ‘n Pay Stores. Along with her husband Raymond Ackerman,
Wendy has been a tremendous force in building up one of South
Africa’s leading FMCG retailers, which, to date, consists of over 450
stores, with the inclusion of 121 supermarkets and 14 hypermarkets.
The company extends its food and retail services across South Africa,
southern Africa and even Australia, and has employed an estimated
49,000 people over the years. Wendy received an Inyathelo Award for
her family’s philanthropic efforts in 2007.

A CAUTIONARY TALE
For many years Isabel Dos Santos, daughter of Angolan President, José Eduardo dos Santos, topped the list as the
richest woman in Africa. Currently in self-imposed exile in Dubai she is embroiled in legal battles while watching her
empire implode.

Public Sector Leaders | November 2022 | 59


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