Question NW2039 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
19 October 2021 - NW2039
Mbabama, Ms TM to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What (a) is the process that is followed for foreign postings in her department and (b) are the qualifications required for the postings; (2) whether the posts were advertised; if not, why not; if so, will she furnish Ms T M Mbabama with a copy of the advert that was posted for the postings; (3) whether there is a policy for foreign placements; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) how often is the policy supposed to be reviewed and (b) on what date was it last reviewed?
Reply:
1. The Foreign Placement policy stipulates the process as follows:
(a) The vacant foreign posts are advertised, shortlisting is undertaken and interviews are conducted for final selection of candidates.
(b) The advertisement shall outline the inherent requirements such as academic qualifications as well as specific attributes as per the specific job evaluation specifications that are required for each post, in accordance with the foreign mission.
2. The posts have not been advertised. The number foreign offices have been rationalized. This took into consideration the impact over the years in various foreign offices. The posts for all foreign offices are all vacant and are being advertised. Shortlisting will be done and interviews will be conducted. Candidates will be appointed from the recommended interviewed qualifying candidates.
3. The former Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) had a Foreign Placement Policy:
a) The Policy was periodically reviewed.
b) With the merger of the two departments, a new policy has been finalised. .