Daily Archives: August 13, 2024

Ramaphosa: “The onward march towards economic freedom for women”

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By CYRIL RAMAPHOSA  

Last week we commemorated the Women’s March to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. This historic protest by more than 20,000 South African women was a response to the cruel and dehumanising practices of the apartheid regime. 

The march was also a protest against economic injustice.

As one of the regime’s so-called ‘influx control’ measures, the pass laws restricted freedom of movement for black men, thereby curtailing their ability to work. The decision to extend the pass laws to black women would have effectively shut off all remaining opportunities for black families to earn a livelihood. 

This spurred the pioneers of 1956 to march on the seat of apartheid power. 

The significance of the 1956 Women’s March is enduring, not least of all because it underscored the centrality of women’s economic empowerment to the broader effort to achieve gender equality. 

Thirty years into democracy we have made impressive strides in advancing gender equality across society, but we still have a long way to go in broadening women’s economic participation. 

This is borne out by a recently published Gallup study titled ‘Gender Power in Africa’. The report analyses the disparities and imbalances that shape the lives of women in five African countries, including South Africa. 

South Africa ranks the highest of the countries surveyed with respect to the rate of female participation in political decision-making, low rates of child marriage, and the participation and completion rates of girls in primary and secondary education. 

However, of the countries surveyed, South Africa has the highest rate of unemployed women and women not in the workforce. The percentage of South African women considered to be self-employed or entrepreneurs is the lowest, at 5%. In this respect, we lag behind the rest of the continent. According to the World Economic Forum, women constitute 58% of self-employed people across Africa. 

In a country such as ours, with a high unemployment rate, entrepreneurship is an important tool to empower more women and broaden their participation in the economy. This includes in the informal sector, which accounts for 18% of total employment in the country. 

Through its various departments and entities, the state provides financial support to women to enable them to start their own businesses and to sustain existing businesses. Women-owned businesses are also able to access training in business and project management, IT and other skills. 

We have set a target to allocate at least 40% of public procurement spend to women-owned businesses. In 2021, we launched a Women’s Economic Assembly to enable women-owned enterprises to participate in local industry value chains. Since its inception this programme has yielded promising results in a number of key economic sectors, notably the automotive sector. 

We are also striving to expand women’s access to economic activity through land ownership, enabling female farmers to own land through the state’s land redistribution programme and supporting them with equipment and other agricultural inputs.  

From citrus farmers in North West to cooperatives making affordable school furniture in KwaZulu-Natal, to cosmetics companies and tech start-ups in the Western Cape, all across the country women-owned enterprises are benefiting from an integrated approach to supporting small businesses.

The private sector is playing an important role in guiding these entrepreneurship journeys through start-up incubators, women entrepreneurship awards and programmes such as the Youth Employment Service.

With the help of the Social Employment Fund and others, government is enabling women entrepreneurs to employ workers and provide mentorship to trainees.  

There is much more that the private sector can do. Access to financial resources, including credit lines, is vital to the viability of women-owned businesses. Another important area is access to tools of financial inclusion like bank accounts and mobile money and payment technologies. It will be critical to broaden the reach of financial services to include women in the informal sector and in rural areas. 

Empowering women contributes to thriving economies, spurs productivity and boosts economic growth. 

With greater collaboration between government and business, together with the support of labour and civil society, we can use entrepreneurship to lift more women out of poverty. We can create more jobs for women and help more women secure their financial freedom. 

The achievement of economic freedom for South Africa’s women would be the most fitting tribute to the courageous women who marched on the Union Buildings in 1956.

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Govt commits to supporting athletes for 2028 Olympics

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Picture: Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie   

With South Africa having doubled its tally of medals at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has set his sights on providing financial support to athletes who aspire to participate in the 2028 Olympics.

Addressing a media briefing welcoming the return of team South Africa at the OR Tambo International Airport, McKenzie committed to taking 300 athletes to the 2028 Olympic Games taking place in Los Angeles, United States.

“I can promise the nation that come 2028, the athletes will get financial assistance. This is a massive opportunity for our country to showcase the best of our athletes. The road to Los Angeles starts now at school sports and community sports.

“I am ecstatic about the performance of team South Africa at the Olympics. They have doubled their tally. They got three medals in Toyko, in Paris we [were] standing on six medals. They have done very well under trying circumstances,” he said.

McKenzie further said the government must invest money in the athletes. He added that they are going to make sure that money goes to the right people.

“As the Minister of Sports, I am very proud of what our athletes have achieved in Paris. Smith is the most decorated athlete that we have ever produced as a country. You have not only achieved on the field, but you have also achieved off the field,” said McKenzie.

He said the country is proud of Smith. McKenzie said she has shown that is possible.

“We are a sporting nation. You have brought this country together. You are one of the greatest heroes that this country has ever had,” said McKenzie.

Meanwhile, the swimmer Tatjana Smith, who McKenzie described as “our most decorated Olympian” and members of the athletics relay team, returned home to a hero’s welcome this morning, after winning medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

With her recent achievements, Smith has become the greatest Olympian produced by the country, with two gold medals and two silver medals in breaststroke swimming.

South Africa also secured a historic silver medal in the 4×100 metres relay, with the team comprising Bayanda Walaza, Bradley Nkoana, Shaun Maswanganyi, and Akani Simbine.

Sharing experiences

Smith announced her retirement at the Paris Olympics. However, she has offered to share her experience with other swimmers.

“I am happy to engage with athletes and give my perspective on the sport. We can learn from each other. I am happy to inspire. I am available if you want to bounce [off] some ideas. I am willing to help and be there.

“Knowing that this was the last time I get to wear the country’s colours was a bitter pill to swallow. It’s been 22 years since I have been swimming. It’s going to be a whole lifestyle change. I am also giving myself space to figure out what I can do. It was a bitter sweet moment when I made the decision to retire,” she said.

Smith said going into Paris, she was not planning on retiring. She said it happened during the competition.

“I felt a lot of peace knowing that it’s okay. Sometimes we don’t want to let go because we are unsure of what the future looks like. I just had peace that I need to trust God in this and he will provide.

“It is a bitter pill to swallow that I am finished. This is the last time I will be wearing the green and gold colours. While competing in sports comes with a lot of challenges, I managed to overcome them,” said Smith.

She said: “Sport is expensive, and the cost of living is expensive. You need financial backing to compete at international levels. Representing my country has had its challenges but we still rise above them. We need to get more people and more representation into sports. It’s important.”

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Source: SAnews.gov.za

(Edited by Obakeng Maje)

North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng to address challenges raised by SANSBOC

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Picture: The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng along with SANSBOC delegates/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, today met with the Provincial South African Small Bus Operator Council (SANSBOC) officials as part of an introductory meeting. Morweng said the aim was to get first-hand information as to what are the challenges, as well as their plans to take the department forward in line with their mandate. 

“We welcomed the engagement with the hope that it should be the start of more interaction with the organisation, so as to build a working relationship, but also to find each other on issues that are beneficial to all stakeholders.

“Furthermore, SANSBOC requested me to form a task team that will resolve some of the challenges that they have encountered and also come up with remedial actions,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of SANSBOC, Final Kgodumo raised issues that he feels Morweng needed to take note of and intervene.

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‘There is a need for digital skills in STEM’

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Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi with learners/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she was honoured to be part of the launch of the Job Shadowing Programme. Motsumi said this is a transformative initiative spearheaded by the Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in collaboration with Sibanye Stillwater, TechnoGirl Trust and Agape Youth Movement.

She further said the launch event took place on 12 August 2024, at the Sibanye Stillwater Recreation Club in Rustenburg, aligning with the celebrations of International Youth Day (IYD). Motsumi added that the DWYPD, as the national custodian for youth development, continues to champion the empowerment of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in all their diversities.

“The Job Shadowing Programme has been conceptualized as a critical step towards equipping young people with the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.

“By providing opportunities for youth to gain insights and hands-on experience in various professions, the programme is a significant stride towards fostering digital inclusion and ensuring that no young person is left behind,” she said.

Motsumi commended the DWYPD for its commitment to creating opportunities that empower the youth. She said the programs like these are not just opportunities—they are lifelines that will help them build a more just, equitable and prosperous society for all.

“Our department came along with senior managers and 24 learners from various in and around Rustenburg.  We remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that provide youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern workforce.

“Through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, the department will continue to prioritize youth development and ensure that young people across the province have access to opportunities that will shape their futures,” said Motsumi.

The Deputy Minister of DWYPD, Steve Letsike emphasised the importance of the partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

“We cannot leave the Department of Basic Education behind when we speak of youth. There’s a need for digital skills in STEM, as well as skills acquisition, for a country to truly achieve digital inclusion,” he said.

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Police: ‘Do not fall victims to contact crimes’

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The police in Northern Cape said the policing of contact crimes remains a priority. Against this backdrop, communities are urged to adhere to safety hints to prevent falling victim to contact crimes.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock encourages community members to stay alert as awareness is the best defence. Kock said taking self-defence lessons might also be a valuable option.

“Always leave venues with friends wherever possible. Never go to the bathroom alone and always use a buddy system at public venues. Never accept drinks or lifts from strangers and always stay in well-lit areas.

“Never walk alone in secluded areas and travel as if you know where you are going. Take the most direct route and try to stay within areas where other people are around. Trust your instincts – if you think something is wrong, then act on it,” he said.

Kock further said community members should avoid flashing valuable items as it attracts criminals for robbery and sexual assault. He added that they should have their keys available when they reach their homes or cars.

“Keep money for transport and plan in advance – the expense is worth it.  Carry a personal alarm and use it when necessary. If you are a victim, get help immediately and make as much noise as you can to alert people when you are in trouble.

“If you have been attacked, do not shower or change your clothes as it may destroy evidence. Always give the police all the details you have about the area and suspect, if you are a victim of contact crimes. If you have had your keys taken, robbed or lost, ensure you change the locks. Drink responsibly and refrain from excessive alcohol consumption– you need to give a clear account of what happened,” said Kock.

He said community members should never leave their drink unattended as it could be tampered with and leaving them to be victims of date rape. Kock urges them to stay alert and safe.

“Do not physically intervene in fights – you could get hurt yourself, rather call the police. If it is safe to do so, take a photograph or video on your mobile phone. However, the police are likely to need your phone as evidence.

“Record details of times, number plates, descriptions and so on. If you do not have a pen with you, leave a voicemail message on your mobile phone or write a draft text message. Get out of any abusive relationship immediately and contact family or police,” he said.

Kock said community members should always have an emergency contact on speed dial. He said they can call their nearest police station or 10111 when they find themselves in a dangerous situation.

“Call Stop Gender Violence Helpline 0800 150 150 or report GBVF crime to the MySAPS app,” said Kock.

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Portfolio Committee probe North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng to determine facts surrounding rape incident   

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Picture: The North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng  

By OBAKENG MAJE

The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, Freddy Sonakile said they have received a formal request to investigate whether the alleged rape incident that involves the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng’s cronies, took place at the room that was booked for Morweng by the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) or not.

This comes after Morweng’s cronies, Tebogo Metswamere and Puleng Mosadi, who were both ANCYL Deputy Convener and Coordinator in the Ngaka Modiri Molema Region respectively, were arrested for allegedly raping a woman (33). According to the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) provincial spokesperson, Fanon Moema, the alleged rape, took place at Protea Hotel in Mahikeng, in the same room where Morweng was booked in by the NWPL.

“Mosadi is employed by Mmabana Foundation, where Morweng was the CEO, prior to being appointed as MEC. We are grimly concerned by the rise of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and patriarchal relations that have taken a different turn, which sees women being raped by the very people who are tasked with the responsibility to lead, protect and shower them with love.

“It is also alleged that the victim was faced with hurdles when she went to open a case, wherein police officers in Mmabatho Police Station were insensitive and reluctant to open a case. It is quite evident with the high level of victims in cases of this nature that the political elites in this country enjoy impunity at the expense of the most vulnerable,” he said.

Moema further said clearly, the moral fabric that is espoused in the constitution has been trampled on by the political elites, who have turned executive offices into a predatory state and as a result, the communities are left grieving during a Women’s Month.

He added that a fish rots from the head and as such, it is unacceptable for Morweng, who is responsible for Community Safety and Transport Management portfolio, to continue to hold such a prestigious office that is at the epicentre of righteousness, protection and moral guidance.

“We call for Morweng, together with the two accused persons, to resign from public offices. We will be on the ground to monitor developments of this case closely and provide necessary support to the victims, families, friends and the grieving communities at large.

“We call upon community members to attend to the court case on 2 September 2024, and ensure that we voice out our dismay in demand of justice,” said Moema.

It is also alleged that Metswamere was earmarked to be appointed as a Support of Staff Officer in Morweng’s Office.

Sonakile said: “We have noted the allegations that are in the media space with regards to who paid for the room, where the rape is alleged to have taken place. Last week, we also received a formal request for an investigation from community activists. 

“We would not want to make any aspersions, so we have written to both the Legislature and the department to clarify the issue of the payment towards the booking. Once we receive the responses, we will table it before the committee, so that a decision on the way forward can be taken.”

Meanwhile, it is also alleged that Morweng has tried to bribe the alleged rape victim with R100 000 to drop rape charges. However, Morweng spokesperson, Charles Matlou refuted the allegations. 

“As had been indicated in a media statement we issued then, Morweng had called on all to allow the law to take its course. There is no truth at all in the insinuations that Morweng interfered in this matter.”

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The Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron welcomes the dismissal of Head of Crime Intelligence   

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron

By BAKANG MOKOTO

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has welcomed the dismissal of the Head of Crime Intelligence in the Western Cape, Mzwandile Tiyo, from the South African Police Service (SAPS). Cameron said the dismissal follows a Section 34 inquiry to establish his fitness to hold office following allegations that he lost both a laptop and a firearm and used crime intelligence resources to find the people who had stolen them and assaulted them.

“It is unacceptable that a law enforcement officer unilaterally abused state resources to hide their misdeeds. The fact that the state assets were stolen at a tavern point to sheer disregard for the office he holds.

“The dismissal of Tiyo is tangible proof that misconduct of any form will not be accepted within the service. This is the first step in regaining credibility in the eyes of the community and will assure the people that SAPS will conduct their work ethically and within the code of conduct,” he said.

Cameron further call for the completion of the criminal investigation and prosecution to ensure that justice is served and that the rule of law reigns. He added that the Portfolio Committee is steadfast in its belief that one of the first pillars in repositioning the SAPS, is the removal of rogue and unethical police officers who negatively impact on the credibility of the police.

“This is a good start, and we hope many similar actions will be taken against other officers that operate outside of the code of conduct and the law. We congratulate the Minister of Police for actual implementation of the promises he made when he delivered the 7th administration’s priorities,” said Cameron.

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North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates a house to Molifi family

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North West MEC for COGHSTA, Oageng Molapisi donates a houses to Molifi family/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

The North MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA), Oageng Molapisi handed over a house to the Molifi family in Tigane Township, near Klerksdorp.  Molapisi said this was part of celebrating Women’s Day as the affected family has been living in a two-roomed shack.

He further said the newly-built house came as relief to the two social grants recipients and their four children. Molapisi added that they were working in collaboration with the North West Department of Social Development.

“The family received a furnished house, food parcels and blankets. We urge women, especially in rural areas to stand firm and continue to advocate for the emancipation of women from all aspects of life.

“We would also like to condemn the social ills committed against women. We call on the law enforcement agencies to deal decisively with those who continue to violate the rights of women,” he said.

Molapisi also urged the ward councillor to work closely with women and vulnerable groups within the Tigane community. He reiterated that his department will continue to prioritise women in construction and allocate 40% of the budget to them.

“We commend the women of 1956 march in Pretoria. We further urge other women to carry on the baton and their legacy forward. The government has and will forever continue to prioritise women and strive for equality. We respect and honour women of our country as they are nation builders and leaders.

“We do so in ensuring that we restore their dignity, just like we are doing to the Molifi family. We have handed over the house as part of our ongoing venture to make sure that housing delivery remains key and that the partnership with other government departments and business continue unabated,” said Molapisi.  

Meanwhile, receiving the house on behalf of the family, the elated Nnase Molifi, who just celebrated her 70th birthday, could not hide her excitement. Molifi continued to thank the government and the philanthropic contractor, who built the house and donated furniture for the whole house.

“We urge the government to continue to deliver services to communities as they are relying on it to better their lives. I am grateful for this wonderful gift that will remain our treasure as the family.

“We are grateful and pleased to see that our patience and hope are answered. We now have a home and we are sure to leave a legacy for our children and grandchildren,” she said.

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‘Older persons continue to experience poor service in public institutions’

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Picture: The North West Older Persons’ Forum/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

The North West MEC for Social Development, Sussana Dantjie said her department will continue to ensure that the rights of elderly persons are not trampled upon. Dantjie said this during a meeting with the North West Older Persons’ Forum recently.

She further encouraged the senior citizens to be active champions on the interest of older persons. Dantjie further said the province has consistently provided the national forum with chairpersons, underscoring the wealth of leadership it has.

“I have no doubt that this leadership quality that the national forum has embraced can take us to new heights. I appeal to the provincial forum to go back to the drawing board and continue to create a powerful legacy that will last generations.

“Their structure must be solid from ward level because it is at the grassroots, where you will harness unity and interest for a stronger older persons’ forum. The forum must also benchmark from other provinces with a similar outlook with the province,” she said.

Dantjie added that the forum must never underestimate their influence and must fight for better services in both public and private space.

Meanwhile, the National Chairperson of Older Persons’ Forum, Kgosietsile Sehularo, who is also the Provincial Chairperson said: “We have presented a detailed plan, which Dantjie embraced and will ensure its implementation, especially where it tallies with the plans of the department.

“However, we continue to experience poor services in most public spaces, where at times, older persons have to endure long queues while on their feet.  However, we vow to deepen advocacy and awareness on the rights of older persons.  We also made a clarion call to Dantjie to ensure that actions are taken on resolutions of the Older Persons Parliament.”

Sehularo said on the other niggling issues that afflict senior citizens, Dantjie has promised to support many pensioners, whose funds lay unclaimed.  He said there are many older persons who do not enjoy the ‘fruit of their hard labour’.

“Sometimes this happens based on minor technicalities.  The forum must drive this issue, while arrangements could be made on educational roadshows to help those who are yet to claim their money.

“The meeting was to acquaint Dantjie with structures under her belt. She donated a laptop and router to the structure to ensure that their work is recorded for future reference,” said Sehularo.

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