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19 March 2024 - NW273

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Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Transport

Given that the economic cost and loss of life due to accidents on poorly maintained roads continue to increase (details furnished), what are the full, relevant details of the plans that her department has in place to ensure that this is prevented in the 2023-24 financial year?

Reply:

1. Road Safety Audits

The Department is highly concerned about the continuous increase in road traffic crashes due to poor condition of roads and to this end, my department developed the Road Safety Strategy that seeks to address rod crashes and fatalities with safer roads being one of the Road safety pillars. The Department of Transport developed the Road Safety Audit Manual that provides guidance to various Roads Authorities on actions to be adopted in keeping the roads safe for all road users.

2. Routine Road Maintenance (RRM

In addition to the Road Safety Manual, the South African National Roads Agency (SOC) Limited developed the Routine Road Maintenance Program to ensure that the newly built are regularly maintained to ensure longevity.

3. Provincial Road Maintenance Transversal Indicators

In addition to the above and in making sure that Provinces are well supported, the Department of Transport has established a set of four (4) performance indicators that are consistently executed by all Provinces and monitored on quarterly basis. These Transversal Indicators are:

  • Number of kilometres of surfaced roads visually assessed as per the applicable Technical Methods for Highways (TMH) manual,
  • Number of kilometres of gravel roads visually assessed as per the applicable TMH Manual,
  • Number of road safety audits conducted,
  • Number of designs for transport infrastructure

4. Road Maintenance Grant

The Department has budgeted R42.6 billion for construction, maintenance and upgrade of the road infrastructure network, For the current reporting period the Department of Transport.

19 March 2024 - NW296

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Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development

Whether she will furnish Ms B S Masango with (a) a list every SA Post Office (SAPO) payment point for SA Social Security Agency (SASSA) grants which will be closed, (b) the date of closure for each, (c) the number of SASSA grant recipients serviced at each Post Office and (d) the (i) relevant details of the nearest alternative payment points to each of the closed SAPO branches and (ii) distance in kilometres from the Post Office?

Reply:

a) Please refer to Annexure A for a list of every South Africa Post Office (SAPO) payment point that will be closed

b) Please refer to Annexure A for a list of every South Africa Post Office (SAPO) payment point closure dates

c) Please refer to Annexure B for the number of SASSA grant recipients serviced at each SAPO/Postbank

d) (i) and (ii) Please refer to Annexure C - for alternative payment points to each of the closed or will be closed SAPO branches and related kms

 

19 March 2024 - NW185

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Khanyile, Ms AT to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

What is the current backlog of (a) asylum seekers awaiting status determination interviews, (b) asylum seekers who have appealed the status determination decision, and are awaiting a hearing with the refugee appeal authority, (c) asylum seekers who have submitted a review of their status determination decision to the standing committee of refugee affairs and are awaiting a decision, (d) refugees awaiting decisions on permanent residence applications and (e) foreign nationals awaiting permanent residence applications?

Reply:

(a) 617 active cases are still at the first instance adjudication phase as at 31 December 2023.

(b) Refugee Appeals Authority:

(i) Failed asylum seekers who lodged Notices of Appeal – 113 698

(ii) Failed asylum seekers booked for hearing – 2 710

(c) Reviews at SCRA awaiting decisions as at 19/02/2024: 6 774

(d) Refugees awaiting decisions on permanent residence applications: 2 924.

(e) Foreign nationals awaiting permanent residence applications: 44 488.

END

19 March 2024 - NW307

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Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(a) What total amount of office hours were lost due to (i) load shedding, (ii) office closures, (iii) water outages, (iv) system downtime and (v) no online verification scanners at health facilities in quarter 3 of the 2023-24 financial year and (b) what was the total percentage of uptime of his department’s civic services system hosted by State Information Technology Agency?

Reply:

(a) The total amount of office hours lost in all Provincial Offices across the country due to load shedding, office closures, water outages, system downtime and no online verification scanners at health facilities in quarter 3 of the 2023-24 financial year is as follows:

(i) 6 106 hours (load shedding);

(ii) 34 hours (office closures);

(iii) 682 hours (water outages);

(iv) 8 645 hours (system downtime);

(v) 780 hours (no online verification scanners at health facilities).

(b) The DHA/SITA SLA covering all offices reflects as follows:

Month

Reachability (Network)

Availability (power)

October 2023

92.71%

95.07%

November 2023

88.75%

90.95%

December 2023

92.34%

94.17%

END.

19 March 2024 - NW222

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Bongo, Adv BT to ask the Minister of Home Affairs:

Considering that corruption is one of the key areas the Government has prioritised to tackle, what progress has been made with the implementation of the recommendations of the (a) Lubisi Report and (b) Government Printing Works Ministerial Report?

Reply:

Honourable Member, I wish to refer you to two reports presented on 05 March 2024 to the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs.

The said reports clearly outline progress with timeframes and figures on

(a) Lubisi Report and

(b) Government Printing Works’ Ministerial Report.

They are very detailed and will provide you with all you need to know.

END

19 March 2024 - NW26

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van der Merwe, Ms LL to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1) What (a) number of deceased individuals continue to receive the monthly grants from the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA) in the (i) 2022-23 financial year and (ii) since 1 April 2023 and (b) is the breakdown of the monies that have been lost in each specified period; (2) (a) what number of government employees receive a social grant from SASSA, (b) what is the breakdown of the grants the specified employees collected since 1 January 2022 and (c) in which department is each employee who is receiving a grant employed?

Reply:

1. (a) As stated in my reply to Parliamentary Question 4207, SASSA works closely with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on data validation and conducts monthly checks to confirm the life status of clients before a payment file is generated. SASSA does not knowingly pays social grants to deceased beneficiaries.

(i)(ii)(b) Please refer to my reply to Question 4207

2. It is important for the Honourable Member to note that all social grants, with the exception of Foster Child Grant, which is court issued, are means tested for eligibility. If a government employee decides to foster a child an apply for a Foster Child Grant and the court grant foster care place, the employee will be eligible for the Foster Care Grant.

It is also important for the Honourable Member to note some categories of government employees such as those recruited through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and internship programmes, most of whom are the groups appearing on the government database. These individuals would qualify to receive social grants, should they satisfy the eligibility criteria.

(b) The breakdown of grant types is as follows:

Grant Type

Number

Care dependency grant

61

Child Support Grant

3773

Disability Grant

3579

Older Person’s Grant

52 655

Grand Total

60 068

All of the above beneficiaries were identified through the AGSA audit process and they were subjected to a review process by SASSA. It was found that some of the employees receive social grants on behalf of someone in their care.

19 March 2024 - NW63

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Masango, Ms B to ask the Minister of Social Development

(1)What number of days constitute the period between (a) the date on which the SA Social Security Agency requests life status confirmations from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and (b) the date grant payments are made to grant beneficiaries once the DHA has confirmed life status; (2) whether she intends to take steps to shorten the time frame of confirming life status; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

1. (a) As stated in my reply to Parliamentary Question 4207, SASSA works closely with the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) on data validation and conducts monthly checks to confirm the life status of clients before a payment file is generated on a monthly basis.

b) The life status (proof of life) confirmation is sourced from DHA on the day that the payment file is generated. If proof of life is confirmed, payment is included in the payment file and effected for that month. Using February 2024 payment as an illustration, the process is as follows:

Step 1: On the third weekend of the month payment file is extracted (26-28 January 2024) – It must be noted that due to the controls and volumes of the payment file, the payment file is done over the weekend when there is no production work being processed.

Step 2: The payment file is quality assured and approved on Monday (29 January 2024)

Step 3: Tuesday (30 January 2024), SASSA sends payment file to Bankserv – Bankserv requires the payment file 2 days before payment date

Step 4: Thursday (1 February 2024) – is reserved for National Treasury administrative processes

Step 5: From Friday (2-5 February 2024) – Payment starts. If the 1st day of payment falls on a Monday, payment is moved to Tuesday to enable retailers and banks to ensure sufficient cash circulation within the industry. The 5-step process is necessary to ensure the right person is paid. It must be noted that the above will still not resolve the challenge of late death notifications by families to Home Affairs, which implications for SASSA.

18 March 2024 - NW382

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Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

Whether the Public Protector made any findings and handed down remedial action against her department in Report 24 of 2017/2018 on Allegations of Maladministration in the matter between Mr J Nchupetsang and the North West Department of Rural, Environment and Agricultural Development; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what specific steps has her department taken to implement the remedial action?

Reply:

We have requested the Provincial Department of Rural, Environment and Agricultural Development in North West Province to provide us with information in this regard.

Once the information is received, we will inform the Honourable Member.

18 March 2024 - NW209

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Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

With reference to land restitution claims that were settled by the return of land to the claimants, what total number of the specified claims are governed by (a) communal property associations and (b) trusts?

Reply:

a) The Department of Agriculture Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has registered 666 Communal Property Associations for governance of the land restitution claims that were settled by the return of land to the claimants.

b) DALRRD has registered 319 Trusts for governance of the land restitution claims that were settled by the return of land to the claimants.

18 March 2024 - NW289

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Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

Whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with the detailed progress that has been made regarding the completion of the first draft of the Animal Welfare Bill that is due in March 2024; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with the (a) details of the public stakeholder consultation that took place during the drafting of the Animal Welfare Bill and (b) due date for presentation to (i) Cabinet and (ii) Parliament for the processing of the Bill; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW327E

Reply:

1. Yes. The first draft of the Animal Welfare Bill is currently being drafted and will be completed in March 2024.

2. (a) No. No public stakeholder consultation has taken place as yet.

(b)(i),(ii) It is not possible to determine the exact time frames due to the various processes that must be engaged prior to the introduction of a Bill to Parliament. As indicated in the reply to question 3435 on 22 November 2023, the first draft is expected to be completed by March 2024 and the Bill will follow the normal legislation-making process including:

- processing through the relevant Directors-General Cluster System;

- conducting a Socio-Economic Impact Assessment;

- constitutional certification by the Office of the Chief State Law Advisor; and

- obtaining Cabinet approval to gazette for public comments.

Once the comments have been considered, the Bill will be amended accordingly and will be submitted to Cabinet for approval to table in Parliament.

18 March 2024 - NW541

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Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Basic Education

Whether she intends establishing any national policy regarding almost 3 500 cases of governing bodies that are allegedly involved in theft, fraud and extortion, in cahoots with school principals; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The Department has measures in place to deal with a principal or SGB that conducts theft, fraud or extortion that are linked to a school. Should there be a school(s) that is/are alleged to have been involved in such and not dealt with, the Department requests for names of such and the related allegation(s).

18 March 2024 - NW327

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Alexander, Ms W to ask the Minister of Small Business Development

What are the full details of all (a) sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers provided for lawfare and/or any other purposes to (i) her, (ii) her department and (iii) officials of her department by any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 1 January 2021 up to the latest date in 2024 for which information is available?”

Reply:

I have been advised that:

  1. According to the records of received sponsorships, donations and gifts, the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) can confirm that no sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers for lawfare and/or any other purposes were received from any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 1 January 2021 up to 23 February 2024 by the (i) Minister of Small Business Development, (ii) her department and (iii) officials of her department.

18 March 2024 - NW57

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Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What is the (a) total cost of waste perishable fruit exports between 2019 and 2023, specifically at export destination delivery points due to port challenges and Ukraine-Russian conflict and (b) status update on the latest measures in place to expedite farmers' exports at ports and minimise losses for our farmers?

Reply:

a) The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) does not have information on the cost of waste perishable exports resulting from port challenges and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, there doesn’t appear to be any significant post export losses, judging by non-conformity reports we receive regularly from the European Union and other export destinations.

b) The role of DALRRD and its assignee, the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) is inter alia to ensure that farmers’ produce are harvested on time, appropriately packed and sent to ports for final export procedures where the PEPCB ensures that produce is correctly loaded, and vessels certified. Availability of port space and port efficiency as well as related logistics at the ports is the responsibility of the Department of Transport (Transnet).

 

18 March 2024 - NW134

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Luthuli, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Small Business Development

Given that her department has designed support measures for youth-owned businesses through the Small Business Development Agency, in a quest to cultivate an enterprising culture amongst the youth, what (a) has been the direct successes of the Entrepreneurship in Schools Programme and (b) total amount has her department spent on the running of the specified programme?”

Reply:

I have been advised that:

(a)&(b)The Entrepreneurship in Schools programme is a partnership that involves a lot of private sector stakeholders. The owner and custodian are PrimeStars, the Corporate Social Investment (CSI) arm of Prime Media. Other partners include the following: SAPPI, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda), EOH, Allan and Gill Gray Philanthropies, Omnia, 3M, AECI, Safripol, Mulilo, BTE Renewables, Richfield, University of Johannesburg, Raizcorp, Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, Zutari, Women’s Development Business, Buhle Waste, Proudly SA, Uber, Tourvest Travel Services, Protea Hotel Marriot, Sizwe IT, Versapak, Airlink, Nando’s and Lift.

IMPLEMENTATION APPROACH

Since the inception of the programme, the Seda has supported seventy-six thousand nine hundred and ninety-one (76 991) beneficiaries with a budget spent of R3 million as per table below:

NO

FINANCIAL YEAR

NO OF BENEFICIARIES

BUDGET SPENT

1.

2019-2020

12,030

500,000

2.

2021-2022

11,513

500,000

3.

2022-2023

13,218

500,000

5.

2023 -2024

13,109

500,000

 

TOTAL

76,991

3,000,000

The programme makes use of the cinema infrastructure to expose Grade 9 to 12 learners and Educators to entrepreneurship through an entrepreneurial education movie aimed at empowering and entertaining secondary school youth about entrepreneurship and starting their own businesses. The theme changes every year, but the focus is always on encouraging business ideas that will solve existing social, environmental and health problems.

The programme has two main components: creating awareness about entrepreneurship and financial literacy (hence the big number at the beginning) and the competition which culminates into a bootcamp at the end of the year.

The total number of schools that benefited from the programme over the six-year period are six hundred and twenty six (626). The role of Seda is as follows:

  • Assists with the running and judging of the final competition as “investor pitching” including master classes on “technology and innovation” and “pitch preparation”.
  • Provide top three winners with access to relevant Seda support. These potential entrepreneurs would have much more refined ideas, stronger business cases, knowledge, and experience, to work with, to be guided through the process of setting up a business, if necessary, with partners over 18 years of age, in a schedule that does not jeopardise their schooling.
  • Seda is committed to assist all the beneficiaries of the programme and they are encouraged to visit Seda branches to turn their ideas into businesses.

STATUS OF THE PROGRAMME TO DATE FOR 2023/2024 FINANCIAL YEAR

  • Thirteen thousand one hundred and nine (13 109) learners and two hundred and five (205) educators were exposed to entrepreneurial education film.
  • 98% of the beneficiaries were Africans and the gender representation was as follows: 57% of females benefited from the programme whereas males were 43%.
  • Learners were encouraged to enter the competition and adjudication of the entries took place. Ten (10) teams were selected and participated in a boot camp that took place on the 8-11 December 2023. The dragon’s den was hosted on 11 December 2023 at Protea Hotel, Wanderers in Johannesburg to choose the three viable business ideas.
  • The Step-Up 2 A Green Start-Up National Youth Entrepreneurship Awards ceremony was hosted on 12 December 2023 at Nedbank Rivonia in Sandton. The Minister of Small Business Development, Ms. Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, graced the event with her presence and delivered the keynote address.
  • The finalists comprising of twenty-eight (28) learners and nine (9) educators were awarded with over R4 million in prizes which included bursaries, incubation, entrepreneurial programmes, shopping voucher, application development, seed funding and tablets. These came from the different sponsors of the programme that are listed above. The finalists represented Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga and Northern Cape.
  • A team of three learners from Leap Science and Maths in Alexandra, Gauteng were announced as overall winners of the 2023 Step Up 2A Green Start Up National Youth Entrepreneurship Awards for their business solution of producing of eco-brick which was made from recyclable materials such as plastic, paper or glass brought together by a little cement. Those eco bricks will be used to build houses for those in need and address the challenges related to inadequate housing, pollution, unemployment and poverty within their community and the country as whole.
  • The second winner was from Mehlwana Secondary School in Ogies, Mpumalanga. They introduced a way of collecting waste through smart bins. These bins are paired with a mobile app that automatically alerts service provider when the bins reach the full capacity and ready to be collected.
  • The third winner was from Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School in Kempton Park, Gauteng, their business idea centered on sustainable construction for those in need by using repurpose recyclable materials into wall panels to build houses.

UPDATES ON 2022 WINNERS

  • The first-place winner was Sibusisiwe Comp Tech High School from Umbumbulu in KwaZulu-Natal. The idea was to create an affordable source of energy using eco-friendly coal sourced from marula nuts. The Eco Trio received R20 000 from the Youth Start Foundation to start a business. They started a business of nut processing in January 2023, this entails converting marula nut into coal.
  • The second-place winner was Leap Science and Maths High School from Alexandra in Gauteng. The idea was to make use of the recycled paper to create “eco log bricks” as an alternative to coal used for fire. The eco log brick making business was not implemented as planned due to lack of resources. As both first and second place winners are still in grade 12 this year, after writing their exams, the Seda branches (eThekwini and Johannesburg) will train them on basic business skills and assist them to turn the idea into a business.
  • The third-place winner was Buhlebezile Secondary School from Thokoza in Gauteng. The idea was to extract raw materials from electronic devices, reselling precious metals and repurposing the plastic waste into tar used for road construction. The team completed their matric in 2022 and each member received a degree bursary from Richfield Institute to the value of R112 000. Both students are studying at Richfield Institute and have applied to Johannesburg Business School of Entrepreneurship Development Programme to study further.

IMPACT OF THE PROGRAMME TO ALUMNI

  • Gontse Selaocoe is the owner of All Day Jam based in Orange Farm in Johannesburg which employ 5 people. Mr Selaocoe took part in the programme in 2017 when he was in Grade 11 and made it to Top 10. He contacted Seda for assistance, he was assisted with product testing, marketing assistance and he participated on the art of pitch for funding competition. He was one of the winners of 2022 Seda National Pitch for Funding Champion in which he received the R500 000.
  • Palesa Machaka is the owner of Coiggy (Pty) Ltd – Fintech company with 2 employees. Primestars supported her on her journey, offered resources to start her business and referred her to relevant network. Coiggy (Pty) Ltd is a fintech start-up company with the aim of fostering financial savviness amongst the youth in Southern Africa – by revolutionising the use of loyalty programmes and breaking stereotypes around saving and investing money. This company planned to redefine the financial ecosystem, making financial services more secure and inclusive for all, from a township to global scale.
  • Brian Mlambo is a CEO of Akha Ventures. Akha Ventures is at the forefront of championing digital transformation in Africa. Rooted in a profound dedication to the empowerment of small and medium-sized enterprises, the company serves as an indispensable ally to SMEs, ensuring they are equipped with the pivotal tools and insights required to flourish in today's digital era. This unwavering commitment to transformation has borne tangible results, with Akha Ventures successfully aiding over 5,000 businesses in establishing their digital presence and organizing, more than 100 business-centric events, including insightful masterclasses and fireside chats which has enabled them to build a database of over 35,000 SMEs in South Africa in 5 years.

18 March 2024 - NW269

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Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What specific steps does her department intend to take in response to the alarming number of noncompliant communal property associations (CPAs) as outlined in the recent annual report; (2) whether there is a plan to address the (a) lack of co-operation (i) among CPA members and (ii) between traditional authorities versus CPAs and (b) reported conflicts among CPA members that are identified as key factors contributing to (aa) noncompliance and (bb) project failure; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) considering that the chairperson of the Moletele Community Property Association, Mr Albert Thabane, which is one of the CPAs that are best performing, emphasised that collaborations are key to ensure that the benefits of the community are met, what measures does her department intend to put in place to encourage collaboration and partnerships among CPAs?

Reply:

1. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has embarked on a process of developing a policy guideline to address all Communal Property Associations’ (CPAs) challenges.

2. Yes.

(a)(i),(ii),(b),(aa),(bb) The policy guideline will address all CPA challenges.

3. DALRRD is currently hosting CPA investment imbizos in order to advance collaboration amongst CPAs and investment partners for the productive use of the land held by these entities.

18 March 2024 - NW450

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Graham, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition

(1)Whether the transaction by the National Gambling Board to purchase the property at 1085 Frances Baard Street, Hatfield, has been finalised; if not; what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) on what date was the transaction concluded and (b) what was the cost of the building; (2) whether all supply chain processes were followed in the procurement process; if not, why not; if so, (a) did he approve the transaction in terms of Section 54 of the Public Finance Management Act, Act 1 of 1999 and (b) on what date was the specified approval granted; (3) whether the transaction has been approved by the National Treasury according to the stipulations of the specified Act; if not, why not; if so, (a) on what date did the National Treasury approve the transaction and (b) what are the relevant details?

Reply:

Following information received from the National Gambling Board (NGB) relating to this transaction, I have requested the Director-General to further engage the NGB on information required and processes followed and provide me with a Report. A supplementary reply will be provided once the information has been received.

-END-

18 March 2024 - NW133

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Luthuli, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Small Business Development

(1)What (a) has been the total annual budget of the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) since its inception and (b) total amount of the specified budget has been allocated towards assisting youth-owned businesses; (2) what criteria were used in the process of approving and/or granting loans and other financial assistance to youth-owned businesses; (3) whether have been any youth-owned businesses that were denied any grants or financial assistance in the specified period; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what were the reasons?” NW139E

Reply:

I have been advised that:

1. Since its inception in the 2021/22 financial period, the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) was allocated a budget of:

(a) R296 459 000,

(b) As at 19 February 2024, sefa had disbursed R152 597 678 to 44 Youth-owned businesses under the Youth Challenge Fund.

2. The YCF provides support to youth start-up businesses/enterprises that meet the following criteria:

  • Are between the age of 18 to 35 years.
  • Majority youth-owned with at least 51% youth shareholder/s.
  • Registered with Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and be prepared to register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF).
  • 100% South African owned.
  • Are adequately involved in the day-to-day operation and management of the business, with at least one or more of the members being full-time employees of the business, especially the main applicant.
  • Prepared to participate in Business Development Support (BDS) and mentorship (pre and post).
  • Commercially viable, sustainable, and feasible business idea.

3. Yes, there has been applications that were declined for funding for youth-owned businesses due to a number of specific reasons listed below:

  • Incomplete applications.
  • Adverse credit record.
  • Application above the maximum funding threshold.
  • Lack of off-take agreements.
  • No identified market.
  • Lack of financial statements for existing businesses.
  • Commercial viability.
  • Youth ownership not being clear.
  • Non-compliance with industry regulatory requirements.

Letters of decline were sent to the applicants stating the reasons why their applications were declined or could not be processed further with some of the applications advised to contact the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) for business support. The applicants are advised to re-apply once all the issues listed above are sorted. Some of the applications have been reallocated to the Township Rural Economic Programme (TREP) as it was relevant to them.

18 March 2024 - NW56

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Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

(1)What is the latest update on the referral made by the Republic to the World Trade Organisation on 27 July 2022 concerning the European Union's (EU) import restrictions on South African citrus fruit due to false codling moth (FCM); (2) if no progress has been made since the referral, what actions are being taken to follow up on the matter and update farmers in this regard; (3) on what date (a) does she envisage following up on the matter and (b) will she update the farming community who export to the EU; (4) what (a) have been the cost implications for the farmers exporting to the EU since the implementation of the FCM treatment measures and (b) has the Government done to alleviate the costs implications? NW57E

Reply:

THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT:

1. South Africa (the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) continued with the consultation process at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in September 2022. This is a technical process where South Africa poses technical questions regarding the False Coding Moth (FCM) conditions to the European Union (EU). South Africa did not close dialogue with the EU and several engagements between South African and European counterparts continued throughout 2023 on technical as well as political levels up to the level of the Presidency.

2. Since no amicable resolutions were achieved, South Africa is considering to continue with the WTO dispute resolution process.

(3)(a) The government intends to lodge a dispute at the WTO. The consultation process and preparatory work has been done between government and the industry. The WTO case could not continue yet as the WTO's 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) had to first take place from 26 to 29 February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. After this meeting the relevant Departments will reflect back on the possible options to that take matter further.

(3)(b) DALRRD is in continuous discussions with the Citrus Growers Association (CGA) and the Fresh Produce Exporters' Forum (FPEF) who represent the majority of citrus export producers.

(4)(a)(b) The actual cost implications would be known by the Citrus Growers Association (CGA), as government does not have access to this information. The database that is being utilised by International Trade Promotion does not have the 2023 Trade data available.

18 March 2024 - NW538

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Arries, Ms LH to ask the Minister of Social Development

What (a) security measures have been put in place to ensure that the Social Relief of Distress grant system is safe and not compromised by fraudulent persons and (b) are the relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

(a) As the Honourable Member is aware, the Special COVID-19 SRD Grant is a wholly digital and this exposes it to cybercrimes. To address this, SASSA has developed robust ICT capabilities to detect fraud and related activities. SASSA’s cyber-crime prevention and detection capacities include interfaces with other government departments and entities, including the Department of Home Affairs (National Population Register), PERSAL and the Government Employee Pension Fund (GEPF), SARS, Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) amongst others.

(b) Additional fraud detection and prevention measures include interfaces with banks who rely on the Financial Intelligence Centre for verification purposes. SASSA also uses the data of the South African Fraud Prevention Services (SAFPS) to stay abreast of those that have been identified as perpetrators of fraud or victims of fraud. These efforts strengthen SASSA’s ability to validate grant applications.

18 March 2024 - NW499

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Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What has her department found to be the factors that contribute to land restitution breaking the cycle of poverty?

Reply:

The recipients of the Land Restitution programme received land as an assets or Financial Compensation which enables the claimants to participate in the economy of the country thus breaking the cycles of poverty. More than 998 479 individuals benefited from financial compensation and more than 1 134 039 individuals benefited from land restoration.

END

18 March 2024 - NW208

Profile picture: Matiase, Mr NS

Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What (a) is the total number of (i) commercial farmers and (ii) black commercial farmers in the Republic and (b) size of the commercial farmland is owned by the black commercial farmers?

Reply:

a) (i) Commercial Farmers: 40 122 (Source: Stats SA Commercial Census of Agriculture, 2017).

Statistics South Africa (Stats SA’s) definition of category of farmers:

  • Micro Income <R1 million;
  • Micro+ R1 million>Income<R2,25 million;
  • Small R2.25 million>Income<R13,5 million;
  • Medium R13,5 million>Income<R22,5 million; and
  • Large >R22,5 million.

Information is not categorised according to race.

(ii) There are no reliable figures on black commercial farmers yet. The Producer/Farmer Register in 2021 registered 95 501 farmers. African farmers compared to other racial groups make up 89 975 of the registered number.

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD’s) definition of category of farmers registered is as follows:

  • Smallholder R50<R1 million form 59 282;
  • Medium-scale(R1 million><R10 million) form 434;
  • Large -scale(R10 million><R50 million) form 111; and
  • Mega Farmer(>R50 million) form 67.

 

The Land Audit of 2017 reveals that out of the 181 532 individuals who own farms and agricultural holdings, 40 494 African individuals own land. Whites are the majority owners, forming 95 673 of the total. The report does not reveal the breakdown of turnover per race.

b) The Stats SA Commercial Census of Agriculture, 2017 reveals that there is 46,4 million hectares of land i.e. 36,5 million hectares of commercial grazing land and 7,7 million hectares of commercial arable land.

According to the Land Audit of 2017, Africans own 1 314 873 hectares out of the total of 37 078 289 hectares. White individuals have 26 663 144 hectares of land.

However, the information is not categorised by turnover and race on the same plane so that it can depict black commercial farmers.

18 March 2024 - NW135

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Luthuli, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Small Business Development

(1)With reference to her reply to question 4157 on 8 January 2024 regarding mechanisms in place to encourage and make provisions for youth entrepreneurship and addressing youth unemployment, wherein she mentioned that the Youth Challenge Fund had approved loans to the value of R227 798 265 to 66 youth-owned businesses and that it had disbursed a total of R150 348 036 to 42 youth-owned businesses, what (a) are the full, relevant details, including names and locations, of the (i) 66 and (ii) 42 youth-owned businesses that received loans and/or other funds and (b) total amount did each specified business receive; (2) what are the full, relevant details of how her department intends to recoup the loans?”

Reply:

I have been advised that:

1. At the time of consolidating the response to the Parliamentary question 4157, funding applications for 66 youth-owned businesses were approved and funding was disbursed to 42 youth-owned businesses. Since the data is captured on a live system, as of 19 February 2024 71 youth-owned businesses have been approved for funding to the tune of to the tune of R228 730 052,79, and 44 youth-owned businesses received funding to the tune of R152 597 677,84 as per the attached spreadsheet.

2. The fund is implemented by the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa) on behalf of the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), then sefa processes are followed to approve and disburse the funds to eligible applicants. The approval of applications takes place at the Credit Committee level, once approved, the contracting (legal process) takes place between sefa Officials and the client and then the loans are disbursed. After disbursements, the client’s file is handed over to the Post Investment Monitoring (PIM) Department. In the case of equipment or machinery purchase, when the supplier delivers, the Investment Officer (IO) or the PIM official are present at the client’s premises to verify that the goods are being delivered as per the paid invoice. Within thirty days post the disbursement, PIM conducts client visits to ensure that the business continues to function in line with what was agreed upon and approved by the Credit Committee. When the loan repayments are due, PIM raises instalments, through the Collections Department, and collects payments from clients’ accounts via the debit orders.

18 March 2024 - NW381

Profile picture: Matiase, Mr NS

Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What total number of agri-hubs have benefited successfully from the facilities that are meant to act as key enablers of the agriculture value chain across the Republic?

Reply:

5 Agri-Hubs. An Agri-Hub is a component of an Agri Park.; it is a nodal collection point of produce from farmers primarily supported at Farmer Production Support Units (FPSUs); it accommodates agro-processing, packaging, logistics, and distribution.

TABLE 1: DETAILED REPORT PER AGRI-HUB

NAME OF AGRI-HUB

INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDED

IMPACT MADE

1. Springfontein Agri-Hub

Free State

Xhariep District Municipality

Kopanong Local Municipality

Multi-Purpose warehouse, Bulk Services, Guard House, Mechanization Centre and fence

  • 21 jobs created during construction.
  • The Agri-Hub is meant to handle fresh produce from FPSU packhouses before sending them to the larger Market. That’s a value adding process to the Market.
  • Farmers and community will benefit from Market access and job creation.

2. Thaba Nchu Agri-Hub

Free State

Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality

Fully equipped abattoir, Rendering Plant, Guard house, paving. Holding Pens, Palisade Fence

  • 28 job opportunities created during construction.
  • The Abattoir is where livestock will be received directly from farmers within the Thaba-Nchu area and neighbouring towns, Slaughtering and processing of the meat will be done at this Abattoir and graded before sent to larger Market.
  • Market access will contribute to more job creation.

3. Mkhuze Agri-Hub

KwaZulu Natal

uMkhanyakude District Municipality

Mkuze Local Municipality

Mkhuze Rail Siding (includes weighbridges, Spiller platforms, purchase of the Hilo, and specialized equipment).

  • 25 jobs were created during construction.

4. Mkhuhlu Agri-Hub

Mpumalanga

Ehlanzeni District Municipality

Bushbuckridge Local Municipality

Fresh Produce Market, Packhouse, Access Road, Storage Shed, Office Block, Training Facility and Veterinary Clinic

  • 45 jobs created during construction
  • A service provider was appointed by Provincial Agriculture to operate the Hub.
  • The Agri-Hub is meant to handle pre-handled fresh produce from FPSU packhouses before sending them to the Market.
  • Farmers will benefit from Market access.

5. Springbokpan Agri-Hub

North West

Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality

Ditsobotla Local Municipality

Warehouse bulks services and paved dual access road-project, a guard house and 1,9KM fencing.

 

  • 79 jobs created during construction.
  • The project will support small- holder farmers through the provision of infrastructure, extension services, production inputs and mechanization input to improve grain production.

18 March 2024 - NW498

Profile picture: Matiase, Mr NS

Matiase, Mr NS to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

What total number of households and/or individuals received financial compensation as opposed to the total number of beneficiaries who had their land restored and/or assets transferred to them?

Reply:

 

More than 998 479 individuals benefited from financial compensation and more than 1 134 039 individuals benefited from land restoration.

END

18 March 2024 - NW268

Profile picture: Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN

Cebekhulu, Inkosi RN to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development

(a) How does her department intend to address financial irregularities and missing funds within some communal property associations (CPAs) and (b) what mechanisms will be put in place to prevent such issues in the future; (2) regarding the need for a more aggressive approach, what specific timelines and milestones will her department set to ensure a swift and effective turnaround in the current state of CPAs?

Reply:

(1)(a) Communal Properties Associations (CPAs) are supported to present annual reports and financial statements at the Annual General Meeting of its members.

In instances where allegations of financial mismanagement are reported investigations are done by the department and where necessary, the CPA can be put under administration.

(b) Proper training of all CPA members including their executive committee on governance, business development and financial accountability is necessary.

2. Firstly, engagement with CPAs across the country gave us a thorough appreciation of where challenges are in each of the CPAs (2022/23).

Following these engagements, a training program is duly developed to strengthen weaknesses.

Mediation is also central in austerity in the management of conflicts and look at possible actions in isolating disputes.

Timelines will differ based on each CPA and its challenges.

 

15 March 2024 - NW359

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Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Basic Education

Whether all leaners have been placed in schools for the 2024 academic year; if not, (a) what (i) is the status of learners who were not placed in schools at the beginning of the 2024 school year, (ii) total number of learners are still awaiting placement and (iii) are the reasons that learners have not yet been placed and (b) on what date is it envisaged that all learners will be placed in schools; if so, what are the full, relevant details in this regard?

Reply:

Learners of parents who accepted placements as allocated by PEDs are in schools. Entry grades learners have been placed.

(a)(i) A majority of learners was placed during the school closing of 2023.  PEDs continued to place learners at the beginning of 2024 school year, especially those that were not part of the admitting province.

(a)(ii)  The statistics of these learners are changing on a daily basis, as the learners get placed.  The actual data is managed by PEDs.

 (a)(iii)  Some learners followed their parents to areas that are economically viable.  Some parents refused placements, as they were not of their schools of choice, even though their schools of choice were full.

(b)(i)  Learners should be placed before the end of term. The DBE is monitoring progress closely and getting regular feedback from provinces.

15 March 2024 - NW590

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Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Basic Education

With reference to her reply to question 103 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by her department for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?

Reply:

There were no new vehicles purchased by the department for the Minister and Deputy Minister since 8 may 2019. The Deputy Minister vehicle was the last to be acquired on 13 December 2018, refer to the detail information below. 

 

What is the (a) make

        (i) Mrs AM Motshekga, MP Minister

  1. BMW                                          
  2. Mercedes Benz              

        (ii) Dr MR Mhaule MP Deputy Minister  

  1. BMW                       
  2. AUDI      

(b) Model

         (i) Mrs AM Motshekga, MP Minister

  1. 535i                                                   
  2. GLE 500                                             

(ii) Dr MR Mhaule MP Deputy Minister 

  1. 530i                          
  2. 3.0 Q7 TDI Quattro   

(c)  Year of Vehicle Manufacture                 

        (i) Mrs AM Motshekga, MP Minister

  1. 2014          : BMW Sedan
  2. 2016          : Mercedes-Benz

        (ii) Dr MR Mhaule MP Deputy Minister 

  1. 2018          : BMW Sedan  
  2. 2018          : AUDI Q7        

(d) Price              

       (i) Mrs AM Motshekga, MP Minister

  1. BMW                      : R769,022.76                                     
  2. Mercedes-Benz     : R849,900.00 

        (ii) Dr MR Mhaule MP Deputy Minister 

  1. BMW                     : R833,488.41        
  2. Audi                       : R1,015,702.05

(e) Vehicles purchase date     

       (i) Mrs AM Motshekga, MP Minister

  1. BMW                     : 25 September 2014                                                 
  2. Mercedes-Benz     : 26 October 2016                                                

        (ii) Dr MR Mhaule MP Deputy Minister 

  1. BMW                     : 28 March 2018         
  2. Audi                       :13 December 2018    

15 March 2024 - NW404

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Madlingozi, Mr BS to ask the Minister of Basic Education

(1)       In view of the high incidence of lawlessness and violence in schools, such as at J G Meiring High School and Primrose Primary School, and considering the fact that provincial education departments are in the process of appointing school governing bodies, what are her department’s plans to ensure that the school governing bodies (SGBs) that will be elected will enhance the safety and security of the learners and teachers at schools across the Republic; (2) what plans does her department have in place to ensure the newly elected SGBs will contribute to policy and decision making that will transform and/or decolonise our education landscape, since her department has over the years devalued it and made it inferior among the world’s standards?

Reply:

The DBE will work with PEDs to ensure the implementation of section 19 of SASA, which expects of the PEDs to have a programme to train SGBs.  Part of the training! will be on keeping schools safe for learners and teachers.

The DBE will ensure the implementation of section 18A of SASA, which expects of PEDs to have in place a Code of Conduct of the School Governing Body, aimed at establishing a disciplined and purposeful school environment, dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of a quality governance structure at a public school.

Furthermore, PEDs will be monitored that they have a programme to—

  1. provide introductory training for newly elected governing bodies to enable them to perform their functions.  This training will include SGB roles and responsibilities and the importance of having a mission that is in line with the PED vision; and
  2. provide continuing training to governing bodies to promote the effective performance of their functions or to enable them to assume additional functions. The training will amongst other areas cover policy development by SGBs.

The DBE will also support PEDs to take Representative Council of Learners to play a role in contributing to school safety and security.

Schools will be required to involve the parents in ensuring that schools are safe for learning and teaching.

15 March 2024 - NW100

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Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies

Whether, with reference to the SA Post Office Business Rescue Plan that was adopted in December 2023, he will furnish Mrs N W A Mazzone with (a) a list of branches that are due to close in each province and (b) the (i) total number and (ii) current positions of employees who will face retrenchment in each (aa) branch and (bb) province; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

I have been advised by the South African Post Office (SAPO) as follows:-

a) list of branches that are due to close:

Gauteng (Most of Gauteng and Vaal Triangle)

17

Northern region (North Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West)

41

Western region (Western Cape, Northern Cape)

28

Eastern region (Eastern Cape) -

24

Central (Free State, North West)

104

KwaZulu-Natal (KwaZulu-Natal)

21

TOTAL

235

The Joint Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) are not prepared to share the actual list of branches as it stands to be amended whilst the process of liaising with landlords is in progress and the possibility of branch relocations are at hand. Once the list is finalised, same will be provided.

(b) The BRPs have advised that they cannot disclose the proposed number of employees that will face retrenchment as the Section 189A facilitation process conducted by the CCMA is underway. The disclosure of a proposed number prior to the conclusion of the facilitation process jeopardizes the course of action.

Thank you

15 March 2024 - NW465

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Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism

(1) What (a) are the requirements set by her department for a person to qualify for appointment as a tour guide and (b) checks and balance mechanisms are in place to ensure that applicants processed by her department comply with the specified requirements; (2) Whether she will furnish Ms H Ismail with a copy of the application form used by her department; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) How are the tour guides monitored by her department to ensure the safety of the tourists in their excursions with the tour guides around the Republic?

Reply:

(1)(a) I have been informed that the Department of Tourism is not responsible for the appointment of tour guides. The appointment of tour guides is a provincial competency.

(1)(b) and (2) and (3) Not Applicable

15 March 2024 - NW464

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Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Tourism

(a) What criterion is used by her department to appoint tour guides and (b) at what point does her department and the Department of Transport liaise before tour guides are appointed?

Reply:

(a) I have been informed that the Department is not responsible for the appointment of tourist guides. The appointment of tour guides is a provincial competency.

(b) Not applicable

15 March 2024 - NW223

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Nkosi, Mr BS to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Considering the fact that the Republic handed over the BRICS chair to the Russian Federation on 1 January 2024, (a) what are the expectations and/or priorities that the Republic has for continued collaboration within the BRICS framework and (b) how does the Republic plan to leverage its experience gained during its chairmanship to contribute to the ongoing initiatives within BRICS under the leadership of the Russian Federation?

Reply:

a) South Africa advances its national priorities and national interests through mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation, shaping a multipolar world and driving global governance reform to be more fair, just, inclusive and representative. The Russian Federation chairs BRICS in 2024 under the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security”. The Chair's priorities for 2024 include 1) Strengthening the BRICS Strategic Partnership based on continuity and consensus, 2) Enhancing the BRICS role in addressing major issues on the global agenda, 3) Forging partnerships with emerging markets and developing countries (EMDCs), 4) Contributing to the social, economic, investment, innovative and human development of BRICS countries, and 5) Enriching people-to-people cooperation and raising mutual cultural awareness. The Chair's theme and priorities build on existing BRICS cooperation and continue the implementation of BRICS strategies, action plans and cooperation frameworks as well as BRICS Summit and Ministerial declarations. Implementation of the outcomes of the Johannesburg II Declaration continues in 2024 including the further development of a BRICS Partner Country model and the consideration of the use of local currencies, payment systems and platforms. A particular focus for 2024 is the full incorporation of new members into all BRICS cooperation tracks, including in BRICS structures such as the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Think Tanks Council, BRICS Women's Business Alliance and the newly established BRICS Youth Council.

(b) The strategic leadership of the rotational Chair of BRICS is implemented in close consultation and consensus with other BRICS members. South Africa continues to play a significant role in the advancement of mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation outside of its tenure as Chair of BRICS during 2023. South Africa will closely support the Chair in the implementation of the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit, including the further development of a Partner Country model and the consideration of the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms before the XVI BRICS Summit to be hosted by the Russian Federation in October 2024. South Africa will also work with all BRICS members to maintain the momentum on recent BRICS initiatives including meetings of BRICS Ministers responsible for Women and BRICS experts on persons with disabilities, the operationalisation of the BRICS Youth Council, BRICS Digital Economy Working Group, BRICS Working Group on Nuclear Medicine and BRICS Think Tank Network for Finance, the establishment of the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competences with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the development of a BRICS Sport Cooperation Framework and workshops on the mutual recognition of BRICS qualifications to name but a few. South Africa also looks forward to engaging with new BRICS members on opportunities for mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation as result of the historic decision on membership expansion taken during the XV BRICS Summit.

15 March 2024 - NW395

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Yabo, Mr BS to ask the Minister of Basic Education

What (a) is the total number of inappropriate and unsafe ablution facilities and (b) progress has her department made in replacing such inappropriate and unsafe facilities?

Reply:

(a) What is the total number of inappropriate and unsafe ablution facilities?

  1. In 2018, the Department of Basic Education launched the Sanitation Appropriate For Education (SAFE-2018) initiative. 
  2. This programme initially identified 3 898 schools dependent on basic pit toilets.  Additional 809 were identified during the process of monitoring.
  3. 867 schools did not proceed to implementation, after initial assessment, because they either had appropriate sanitation facilities, OR only needed maintenance; and therefore did not meet the SAFE criteria; OR were on Private land and could not be developed further; OR schools closed due to low learner enrolment.

(b) What progress has her department made in replacing such inappropriate and unsafe facilities?       

  1. 3 379 schools proceeded to implementation, and 3 003 of these schools have been provided with appropriate sanitation.
  2. DBE plans to complete the balance of the schools in the 2024/25 financial year due to National Treasury budget cuts during 2023/24 financial year. 

15 March 2024 - NW322

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Sarupen, Mr AN to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies

(1)Whether, considering the participation of the delegation of the Republic in the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 that took place in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, from 15 to 19 January 2024, her department bore the financial responsibility for the expenses of its representatives in terms of (a) accommodation, (b) air travel, (c) ground transportation and (d) any other ancillary expenses; if so, what are the relevant details in terms of the (i) total cost and (ii) breakdown thereof; if not, (2) whether the specified expenses were covered by funds received from the National Treasury; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

I have been informed by the Department as follows:

1) Yes

(1)(i) Total cost R 1 893 441

(1)(ii) Cost breakdown:

 

Minister

Ministry Support Staff

Departmental Staff

(a)Accommodation

R 75 960

R 396 920

R 473 290

(b)Air Travel

R 85 927

R 75314

R 73 045

(c)Ground Transport

R 137 315

R 274 630

R 297 740

(d)Local Shuttles

R nil

R 1600

R 1700

       

(2) Yes, the trip was covered by funds from the National Treasury, it was funded from the Voted Funds of the department.

Thank you

15 March 2024 - NW603

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Faber, Mr WF to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

With reference to his reply to question 186 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?

Reply:

(i) Vehicle purchased for Minister Mantashe since 08 May 2019

  1. Make: BMW X3 s Drive 20i
  2. Model: GO1 X 3 s Drive 20i SAV (16DP)
  3. Year of Manufacture: 2023
  4. Date of purchase: 31 March 2023
  5. Price: R768, 030.00

(ii) Vehicle purchased for the Deputy Minister Dr Nkabane since 08 May 2019

  1. No vehicle purchased for the Deputy Minister to date March 2024
  2. N/A
  3. N/A
  4. N/A
  5. N/A

15 March 2024 - NW479

Profile picture: Mhlongo, Ms N

Mhlongo, Ms N to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy

What (a) are the reasons that his department is delaying in plugging residents of Middelplaas Emoyeni section Ward 83204031, Mpumalanga 324, Nkomazi Local Municipality to the grid, (b) was the initial time frame put in place by his department to complete the project and (c) are the reasons that there has been no communication regarding new time frames put in place to complete the project and finally plug the community to the grid to collect the much needed revenue?

Reply:

The structure of the Integrated National Electrification Programme (INEP) within the department requires municipalities to apply for funding to electrify their prioritised areas through Integrated Development Plans (IDP). In the 2021/22 financial year, the department received an application from Nkomazi Local Municipality to electrify Middleplaas area, which was successfully funded and implemented by the municipality. It is worth noting that Emoyeni was not part of the submitted application.

Therefore, should the municipality prioritise Emoyeni and applies for funding in future, the area will be considered for funding and implementation in line with INEP application processes.

15 March 2024 - NW394

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Adoons, Ms NG to ask the Minister of Basic Education

What (a) is the extent of functionality of the Quality Learning and Teaching Committee structures and (b) total number of the specified structures have been established in schools?

Reply:

(a)  All provinces have established QLTC structures, with the exception of the Western Cape Province.  Functionality is informed by programmes that are implemented in each province.  The DBE has shared programmes for implementation through the Provincial QLTC structures and the District QLTC Structures.  

The challenge is that where QLTCs have not been established, they have not been incorporated as part of the SGBs.  The DBE is taking advantage of the 2024 SGB elections to re-establish and strengthen QLTCs; and ensure that they are both functional and have programmes in place.  The number of functional QLTC structures in each province is provided on teh table below.

(b)

NAME OF PROVINCE

NUMBER OF SCHOOLS WITH QLTC STRUCTURED

NUMBER OF FUNCTIONAL QLTC STRUCTURES

Eastern Cape

5 283

2 030

Free State

1 026

718

Gauteng

2 400

326

KwaZulu-Natal

5 898

1 769

Limpopo

3 038

1 880

Mpumalanga

 1607

769

North West

1 564

866

Northern Cape

289

104

Western Cape 

0

0

15 March 2024 - NW226

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Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services

(1) Whether he has established the reasons why the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) failed to prosecute the cases referred for prosecution by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (details furnished); if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what measures, checks and balances has he and/or the NPA put in place to prevent an ongoing failure by the State to prosecute the specified crimes?

Reply:

(1)

As a point of departure, we wish to draw the attention of the honourable Minister to the fact that the NPA is required to present on a continuous basis progress made in TRC matters to the Justice Portfolio Committee. The latest presentation can be made available to Mr B N Herron if he has not been privy thereto.

Specifically, regarding the “Cradock 4” matter a fully motivated request for the reopening of the inquest was submitted to the Minister which led to the Minister’s announcement on 5 January 2024. The NPA submitted in the application that new evidence consisting of primarily the amnesty applications and evidence obtained during the evidence during the TRC amnesty hearings of several SAPS Security Branch members and not placed before the two previous inquests rendered a reopening of the inquest in the interest of justice. This is especially important that finality and closure is brought to the families of the deceased who have waited decades for the truth of who murdered their loved ones.

(2)

As to measures, checks and balances TRC matters has since September 2021 been prioritised within the NPA, resulting in the creation of a separate TRC Component, within the office of the Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP) Adv RJ de Kock.

Pertaining to capacity at national level a Special Director and a National TRC co-ordinator were appointed to assess the progress on all TRC matters and account directly to the DNDPP. There is strict monitoring and accountability.

Dedicated prosecutors and investigators were appointed within the divisions to specifically deal with TRC matters to expedite investigations and decisions. Deviation was obtained from DPSA for prosecutors to be appointed on a contract basis for a period of three years.

An audit of all outstanding matters migrated to the divisions in 2019 were done. It was important to gauge as to how far the investigation had progressed, what was outstanding, and provide a time frame for investigations to be finalised. Decisions in matters are made by the Directors of Public Prosecutions and submitted to the national office where it is carefully assessed, and due consultation and further engagement takes place where required. The NDPP retains her powers of review regarding all decisions. This is important to ensure checks and balances.

Additional matters emanating from the TRC were identified, and provided they had not prescribed, were referred formally for investigations to DPCI. Thereafter they were referred to DPPs for appointment of prosecutors to guide investigations.

Certain matters were identified for fast tracking. Factors considered were age of the matter, age of witnesses/persons of interest, availability of dockets or inquest records etc.

There are regular meetings and updates to the families, as per the instructions of the NDPP. There is also ongoing involvement of relevant stakeholders and government departments.

Accountability sessions are a joint initiative between NPA/DPCI to drive progress on TRC matters. There has been a demand and increase in sessions for upskilling of both prosecutors and investigators in relation to TRC matters.

At National level, comprehensive reports are submitted monthly where progress from all divisions, are accurately gauged. Accountability is stressed. Divisions are held to account. Interventions are staged in non-performing divisions. DPCI/NPA interactions and workshops are critical in so far as training/evaluation and progress is concerned.

15 March 2024 - NW233

Profile picture: Montwedi, Mr Mk

Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Whether, following the Republic’s decision to approach the International Court of Justice to charge Israel with genocide and seek provisional measures to stop the ongoing genocide in Palestine, she had any engagements with the United States, Britain, Germany and other European countries in which the specified countries threatened to limit their trade relations with South Africa; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the engagements?

Reply:

Engagement with the US

At the request of the USA, a telecon with Minister Pandor was initiated by the United States (US) Secretary of State, Mr Antony Blinken, on 25 January 2024. The purpose of the telecon was to discuss South Africa-US bilateral relations, with a specific focus on the state of global affairs, including a reflection on the Genocide Case between South Africa and Israel that was before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at the Hague.

The discussion considered the potential outcomes of the ruling and how the two countries should work jointly to ensure the smooth continuation of relations after the ruling, which the Court had delivered on Friday, 26 January 2024.

As such, no threat was issued by Secretary Blinken regarding our future trade relations with the US and both Principals reinforced the need to refocus attention on the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in key areas of common interests, such as trade, investment, energy, climate change and the JET-P. This sentiment was also reiterated in a press statement released by the US State Department following the telcon on 25 January 2024.

Engagement with the EU

Following the request from the European Union Delegation to South Africa, Minister Pandor had a friendly and engaging meeting with EU Ambassadors on 12 February 2024. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss matters of common interest to both South Africa and her Strategic Partner, the European Union. The Minister used the opportunity to do a global scan of the current geopolitical environment and the importance of sustainable peace and prosperity across the world. It is also at this meeting that the Minister contextualised South Africa’s approach to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Minister used the recent European Parliament’s debate “on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the need to reach a ceasefire and the risks of regional escalation” as a case in point. The Minister further stated that this debate underscored the imperative of adhering to international law together with peace enforcement through established global institutions such as the United Nations Security Council. South Africa has condemned the killing and kidnapping of Israelis by Hamas, however, the disproportionate reaction by Israel cannot be justified. It is against this background that South Africa approached the ICJ. Powerful countries have a responsibility to sit down with both Palestine and Israel to define an outcome that will lead to lasting peace, security and statehood for both, the Minister further remarked.

No other Western European countries were engaged separately on the ICJ hearings on Palestine.

14 March 2024 - NW457

Profile picture: Roos, Mr AC

Roos, Mr AC to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1)What number of (a) new-comer asylum applications have been processed in each refugee reception centre from quarter 1 to quarter 3 of the 2023-24 financial year and (b) applications were (i) granted refugee status and (ii) rejected as (aa) unfounded and (bb) manifestly unfounded; (2) what number of (a) asylum files have been processed through the funded backlog project of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, (b) the processed files have been granted refugee status and (c) backlog files processed have received a final rejection; (3) whether any of the rejected applications have been appealed through a judicial appeal at the high court; if not, why not; if so, what number from each refugee reception centre has been appealed through a judicial appeal?

Reply:

(1)(a) In the period 1 April 2023 to 31 December 2023 the Department processed 15 047 newcomer applications.

(1)(b)(i) 877 cases were granted status

(1)(b)(ii) (aa) 5009 Cases were adjudicated as Unfounded.

(bb) 8415 Cases were adjudicated as one of the Manifestly Unfounded categories for SCRA review

(2)(a) The total number of processed files for the Backlog Project is 10 890.

  • Hearings conducted: 3 910
  • Notices sent for No Shows: 894
  • Paper determinations: 167
  • No Show decisions: 406
  • Family Joining decisions: 201
  • Cancellations/ Withdrawal: 5 312

(2)(b) Of these processed files, 3 872 were rejected.

(2)(c) Of these processed files, 713 were granted refugee status.

(3) Of cases processed and finally rejected, some Appellants have launched Judicial Reviews in terms of Rule 53 of the Uniform Rules of Court. The total number of appeals under review is: 78

  • Desmond Tutu Refugee Centre: 59
  • Musina Refugee Centre: 5
  • Durban Refugee Centre: 9
  • Gqheberha Refugee Centre: 3
  • Cape Town Refugee Centre: 2

END:

14 March 2024 - NW489

Profile picture: Thembekwayo, Dr S

Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health

What (a) are the reasons that the Health Professions Council of South Africa demands that practitioners who are unemployed should pay their outstanding annual fees by 31 March 2024 and (b) interventions can his department make in this regard?

Reply:

According to the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA):

(a) It is a legal requirement that all practising health professionals register with their Professional Council namely the HPCSA, South African Nursing Council, South African Pharmacy Council, Dental Technicians Council and the Allied Health Professions Council. The Health Professions Act, 1974 (Act No. 56 of 1974) requires health professionals to register with the HPCSA before practicing. As section 17 of the Health Professions Act, 1974 (Act No. 56 of 1974) states the following:

If the registrar is satisfied that the qualifications and the other documents submitted in support of the application satisfy the requirements of this Act, he or she shall, upon payment by the applicant of the prescribed registration fee, issue a registration certificate authorising the applicant, subject to the provisions of this Act or of any other law, to practise the health profession in respect whereof he or she has applied for registration, within the Republic.

The HPCSA legislation does not require that unemployed practitioners (non-practising) to pay registration fees. Infact a person not practising a health profession registrable with the HPCSA may apply for voluntary erasure from the register in writing before 31 March of the year that he/she wishes to be voluntarily erased in line with section 19 (1) (c) of the Act.

When the health professional decides to resume practice then a restoration fee is payable and the person could be restored to the register. There may be additional requirements such as continuous professional development, depending on the number of years the health professional is unregistered with the Council.

(b) There is no need for an intervention since there is no obligation on a non-practising health practitioner to registered with the HPCSA.

END.

14 March 2024 - NW493

Profile picture: Komane, Ms RN

Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Health

(1)Whether the Hospital and Emergency Centre Tracking Information System (HECTIS) that has been introduced by his department, is now available in all hospitals; if not, (2) whether HECTIS is still piloted at certain hospitals; if not, why not; if so, (a) which hospitals have used the HECTIS system and (b) what are the relevant details?

Reply:

1. No, the Hospital and Emergency Centre Tracking Information System (HECTIS) is not available in all hospitals. The system has only been implemented by the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health. It has not been implemented in any other province as it is not part of the national Emergency Medical Services Plan.

2. (a) HECTIS is not in a pilot phase. It has been successfully integrated into a total of 64 health facilities in the Western Cape in both hospitals and Primary Healthcare facilities (see annexure showing HECTIS Sites List).

(b) HECTIS is a web-based hospital and emergency centre tracking information system. The system was developed as an in-house custom-built system by an emergency physician from Mitchells Plain Hospital in the Western Cape for their internal processes. It is a Clinician driven innovative healthcare technology initiative, focused on improving the management and efficiency of Emergency Centres.

END.

14 March 2024 - NW471

Profile picture: Mkhaliphi, Ms HO

Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of Health

(1)What total number of persons have been admitted to (a) the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, (b) the King Edward VIII Hospital, (c) the Addington Hospital and (d) surrounding hospitals in eThekwini as a result of contaminated water; (2) what is the breakdown of the total number of (a) children and (b) elderly persons admitted as a result of contaminated water?

Reply:

1. According to the KZN Department of Health, the responses are as follows:

(a) There were no persons admitted at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital due to contaminated water

(b) There were no persons admitted at King Edward VIII Hospital due to contaminated water.

(c) There were no persons admitted at Addington Hospital due to contaminated water.

(d) There were no persons admitted at surrounding hospitals in eThekwini due to contaminated water.

(2) According to the KZN Department of Health, there were (a) no children and (b) no elderly persons admitted as a result of contaminated water.

END.

14 March 2024 - NW218

Profile picture: Lekota, Mr M

Lekota, Mr M to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

(1)Whether his department had solved the problem of long queues and denial of service on reaching the counter after a long time in the queue; if so, what (a) is the average waiting time for service, (b) measures are in place to check that those who are waiting in the queue will indeed be served without being asked to come back on another day, (c) was being done to ensure that the ticket allocation system is working smoothly and reliably 100% of the time, (d) control measures are in place to ensure that the system is the best it can be and (e) surveys are undertaken to ascertain any improvements should and must occur to satisfy the Batho Pele principle; if not, (i) which of the above are not being done and (ii) why; 2) what has been his findings on citizen satisfaction with the service provided by his department?

Reply:

(1)(a) The average waiting time inside an office is calculated per service as different types of services follow different process flows. Where all systems are working and the offices do not experience load shedding, which now affects network coverage in the offices, the average waiting period for pre-booked services is 7 minutes; for birth, marriage, and death services is 10 minutes and 15 minutes for walk-in services.

(1)(b) There is constant monitoring of the queues to check that those who are waiting in the queue will indeed be served without being asked to come back on another day. The queues are divided into product categories and floor/ queue walkers check the queues at regular intervals to see if clients are eligible to apply for the enabling documents and if so, have the correct supporting documents. This is to avoid clients queueing for long periods only to be turned back for not having the correct supporting documents. The total number of clients on the queue at any given time is also reported to management for resource planning purposes. Each official is allocated a specific period to process an application to keep up with the demand on the booking system and clients in the offices.

(1)(c) The ticket allocation system only operates on ID or passport numbers which are validated against the National Population Register before a ticket is issued to a client. This helps to eliminate illegal blocking and selling of slots by agents.

(1)(d) ID numbers or passport numbers are used as unique identifiers by the system. A valid cellphone number or email addresses is required from clients for verification purposes and sending the reference numbers. The system is able to detect any duplicate active booking.

(1)(e) The Department undertook the Home Affairs Customer Satisfaction Survey during the 2022/2023 financial year. The objectives of the study were to assess citizens’ perceptions and satisfaction level of services provided by the DHA, identify and document main problems in service delivery of the Department, document service areas which needs improvement and provide appropriate recommendations to the management of Home Affairs on ways in which service delivery in the selected study areas could be improved. The implementation plan for this study was developed and recommendations are currently being implemented.

(2) The findings of the 2022/2023 survey were as follows:

For Citizens’ perceptions and satisfaction level of services provided by the DHA

  • In summary, the 2022/2023 customer satisfaction research findings are a mixture of positive and negative news regarding DHA service delivery efforts across all service centers
  • 96% of the customers surveyed endorsed the DHA pricing structure as affordable.
  • When asked about the likelihood of recommending the DHA offices they visited using a scale where those who would recommend were captured as promoters, those neutral would be passives whilst those who would not recommend would be detractors. The majority of respondents (i.e. 82%) were DHA promoters whilst 6% were detractors, giving a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 76%. The higher the NPS is the healthier the brand. The main reasons mentioned by the minority that would not recommend DHA across all customer segments were poor customer service, slow customer service, and bad staff attitude.
  • Friendliness of Home Affairs officials was highlighted as the biggest challenge.
  • Most of the customers were serviced on the same day, however there were some who had to visit the Home Affairs more than once for the same service. For those who were not serviced on the same day their reasons were due to long queues, not having all the required documents and the system being offline.
  • The findings show a general improvement in queue management, with an increase of the scores across the different customer interaction points.
  • The DHA was generally praised for effectiveness – i.e. its capability to deliver expected output; and criticised for lack of efficiency.
  • The findings indicate that most DHA customers visit the DHA offices for the application of birth certificates and smart IDs.

For Customer Satisfaction Score (CSI)

  • Customer Satisfaction Score for each service channel was generally high with scores above 70%. However, harbours and airports had the highest satisfaction score of over 90% whereas refugee centers had the lowest score of 73%.
  • Inaccessibility, waiting in unmanaged queues for long hours, and unwelcoming staff attitude emerged as the most popular barriers to service excellence at Home Affairs offices. These also include the ability of staff to resolve queries, wait to get attention, and fair treatment.

Overall, DHA online processes were rated relatively high. However, lack of speed, particularly regarding receiving documents, and the payment process, emerged as the most popular barrier to online service excellence.

END

14 March 2024 - NW490

Profile picture: Siwisa, Ms AM

Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Home Affairs

What steps has his department taken to fight the increase of identity theft cases in the Republic, where innocent individuals are left in debt due to their identities being fraudulently issued by officials within his department to persons with ill intent who use it to open credit accounts?

Reply:

Innocent individuals who find themselves in debt due to identity theft are informed by the creditors of their debts and if disputed, they are advised to report the matter to the SAPS for further investigation.

The Department has online verification services whereby any member of the public when applying for identification in the Department, the document is verified online to ensure authentication of the owner of the identity to be issued.

Banks have online verification platforms whereby they can verify the legitimacy of the fingerprints of the clients as they are linked to DHA systems.

All reported cases of corruption involving officials are analysed and investigated. Cases reported with elements of fraud and corruption are referred to SAPS for further handling.

If misconduct is detected, the case is referred to Employee Engagement for disciplinary processes.

The Department has also embarked on Awareness Campaigns regarding identity on both Internal and External platforms.

END

14 March 2024 - NW594

Profile picture: Bond, Mr M

Bond, Mr M to ask the Minister of Employment and Labour

With reference to his reply to question 83 on 11 April 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?

Reply:

Office

Financial year

(a)

Make

(b) Model

(c)

Year Model

(d)

Cost

(e)

Purchase date

Minister

2019/ 2020

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2020/ 2021

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2021/ 2022

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2022/ 2023

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2023/ 2024

Audi

Q5 TDI Quattro

2023

R799,999.01

31/10/2023

Deputy Minister

2019/2020

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2020/2021

Audi

Q5 TDI Quattro S Line

2020

R 748 353.50

18 October 2021

 

2021/ 2022

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

 

2022/ 2023

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N.B

  • The Minister and Deputy Minister of the Department of Employment and Labour were appointed to their portfolios on 01 June 2019. (Refer to applicable date above: Q83 (iv)
  • Minister- did not purchase any car up until a Jeep Grand Cherokee that he was using experienced mechanical problems, and in 2023 got replaced by Audi Q5 TDI.
  • DM- used an Audi A6 2.0 TDI which ended up being uneconomical to repair, and it got replaced by Audi Q5 Quattro, in Pretoria.

14 March 2024 - NW144

Profile picture: Moore, Mr S J

Moore, Mr S J to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation

Whether he will furnish Mr S J Moore with a detailed list of ongoing (a) Regional Bulk Infrastructure and (b) Water Services Infrastructure Grants projects which have (i) exceeded original budget expectations and (ii) gone beyond the estimated construction time since 1 April 2023; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?

Reply:

The purpose of the Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), to develop new, refurbish, upgrade and replace ageing bulk water and sanitation infrastructure of regional significance that connects water resources to infrastructure serving extensive areas across municipal boundaries or large regional bulk infrastructure serving numerous communities over a large area within a municipality. The Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) facilitates the planning and implementation of various water and sanitation projects to accelerate backlog reduction and enhance the sustainability of services, especially in rural municipalities.

Although comprehensive planning is done by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) together with municipalities prior to the implementation of RBIG and WSIG funded projects, a myriad of challenges arise during implementation which result in unavoidable delays such as:

  • Inability of municipalities to contribute their share of funding for water and sanitation projects that should be co-funded by the DWS RBIG Grant and the municipalities’ own funding
  • Supply Chain Management challenges in municipalities often result in delays in procurement of required professional services and commencement of projects
  • Poor performance of contractors, couples with inadequate project management capacity in municipalities often leads to lengthy litigation processes which also bring projects to a halt
  • Projects are often brought to halt by communities with demands for employment opportunities or construction mafia with demands for 30% of contracts
  • Non-payment of contractors by the municipalities or non-payment of workers by contractors
  • Inclement weather conditions also contribute to delays in ongoing projects

Details of projects gone beyond the estimated construction time since 1 April 2023 are indicated in Annexure A.

---00O00--

ANNEXURE A

Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant

Project name

Original project cost

Revised project cost

Initial completion date

Revised completion date

Free State

Welbedacht Bulk water supply (Manguang pipeline)

R500 000 000

R583 677 787

July 2021

March 2024

Tokologo bulk water supply Phase 2 of 3

R717 535 306

R717 535 306

December 2024

March 2026

Maluti-a-Phofung BWS Scheme(Sterkfontein WTW)

R619 590 000

R619 590 000

March 2024

April 2025

Mohokare Bulk water supply (Rouxville)

R300 000 000

R320 000 000

March 2020

June 2025

Mantsopa Water and Sanitation Intervention

R17 660 652

No adjustment

June 2023

October 2024

Construction of reversal gravity pipeline in Phuthaditjhaba and Harrismith

R57 100 000

No adjustment (this should be N/A as per same categories below)

March 2023

August 2024

Metsimaholo Bulk Sewer. (Upgrading of Denneysville WWTW)

R164 499 946

R224 352 940

October 2019

March 2024

Mafube Bulk sewer phase 2 of 2 (Upgrading of Frankfort WWTW)

R141 448 501

R164 858 228

June 2023

"TBC” Contractor terminated due to poor performance

North West

Ratlou Bulk Water Supply: Phase 1a – Setlagole Water Supply

R 146 600 000

R153 000 000

April 2016

November 2024

Mahikeng Bulk Water Supply: Upgrading of the Mmabatho WTW to 30 Ml/day

R 185 500 500

(IRS - 2012)

R449 700 000

October 2018

August 2025

Upgrade and Extension of the Brits Water Treatment Plant from 60 Ml/D to 80 Ml/D: Madibeng Bulk Water Supply

R845 000 000

R800 000 000

31 Aug 2017

31 Aug 2024

Western Cape

Lamberts Bay Desalination Plant

R89 812 568

Not yet determined

Mar 2022

Not yet determined

Provision of Dry sanitation toilets

R 8 383 078

N/A

June 2021

May 2022

Northern Cape

Upgrading of Noupoort sewer netwok

R 22 398 854

N/A

October 2022

February 2023

Refurbishment of Nababep waste water treatment works (Phase1)

R 40 702 697

NA

June 2025

NA

RS028_Dawid Kruiper_Refurbishment of Kameelmond WWTW Upington

R78 225 986

R78 225 986

22 September 2022

31 May 2023

RS029_Magareng_Warrenton Water Treatment Works

R80 438 842

R122 917 873

22 April 2021

March 2025

Eastern Cape

Makana Bulk Water Supply (Phase 2)

R133 286 055

R393 090 217

March 2021 (All phases)

Phase 2, at a reduced scope - end of June 2024.

Ndlambe Bulk Water Supply

R161 000 000

R422 945 139

(Anticipated that the project cost might increase by another R50mil due to escalation.

May 2015

March 2025.

Xhora East Bulk Water Supply

R258 541 304

R 576 687 000 (including co-funding).

December 2022.

May 2024

Ngqamakhwe Regional Bulk Water Supply

R724 million

R646 000 000

September 2023

September 2025

Sundays River Valley BWS (Paterson Project)

R73 300 000

R101 792 000

March 2016

Phase 6 - 31 March 2024

Overall – 31 March 2025

Xonxa Bulk Water Supply

R 413 017 890

R 657 663 506

August 2023

February 2025

Cluster 9 BWS project at Chris Hani DM

R254 695 667

R485 700 000

November 2022

February 2024

Cluster 4 BWS

R427 099 000

R 849 474 094

May 2020

February 2024

Cluster 6 BWS

R323 952 670

R474 323 951

May 2023

January 2025

Mpumalanga

Driekoppies Phase 1a

R424 000

No adjustments

December 2023

June 2024

Sibange Phase 2

R186 600

No adjustments

September 2022

February 2024

Water Services Infrastructure Grant

Municipality

Project

Original Budget

Revised Budget

Planned Completion date

Actual completion date

Free State

Masilonyana

Theunissen WC/WDM

R18 800 000

R 20 403 462

June 2021

March 2024

Tokologo

Dealesville Emergency Water Supply: Phase 3

R15 921 972

NA

June 2020

June 2024

Tswelopele

Bultfontein: Refurbishment of sewer pump station

R11 552 960

NA

April 2023

March 2024

Dihlabeng LM

Upgrading of Clarens Water Treatment Works From 1 Ml to 4Ml/day

R49 989 987

R59 314 755

February 2024

June 2024

Mantsopa LM

Ladybrand: Construction of 6ML Reservoir & Pipeline

R16 837 385

R16 837 385

December 2023

June 2024

Mantsopa LM

Ladybrand: Construction of 3Ml Reservoir (Phase 2)

R 13 459 632

R 13 459 632

December 2023

June 2024

Mantsopa LM

Ladybrand: Re-Construction of Sewer Outfall Line

R2 500 000

R2 500 000

December 2023

June 2024

Mantsopa LM

Hobhouse: Refurbishment of a Weir

R 2 053 181

R 2 053 181

December 2023

June 2024

Setsoto LM

Upgrading of the Van Soelen Outfall Sewer in Ficksburg

R39 994 762

R39 994 762

November 2023

June 2024

Phumelela LM

upgrading of Outfall sewer line and revamping of pump station station #3 and WWTW in Warden/Ezenzeleni

R22 001 373

R22 001 373

September 2023

June 2024

Nketoana LM

20,34km Pipeline (250mm dia) from Lindley to Arlington

R75 400 794

R75 400 794

June 2024

June 2025

Kopanong LM

Bulk Water Supply in Trompsburg

R19 000 000

R 22 000 000

June 2021

TBC

Kopanong LM

Water Supply Reddersburg

R 13 534 058

No adjustment

May 2017

TBC

Kopanong LM

Water Supply Bethulie

R 6 500 000

No adjustment

June 2021

TBC

Kopanong LM

Upgrading of Philippolis WWTW

R 12 000 000

R 38 994 885

June 2021

TBC

Mohokare LM

Rouxville Abstraction Works

R39 412 741

No adjustment

July 2022

TBC

Mafube LM

Namahadi 12Ml Reservoir

R36 904 336

No adjustment

November 2022

May 2024

Majuba LM

Mafube WC/WDM (Pre-paid Water Meters

R15 000 000

No adjustment

August 2023

March 2024

Metsimaholo LM

Oranjeville WWTW Upgrade

R61 938 621

No adjustment

July 2022

TBC

Ngwathe LM

Refurbishment of pipelines from Parys WTW to Reservoirs 3 & 4

R24 691 873

No adjustment

July 2022

January 2024

Ngwathe LM

Construction of sewer line in Heilbron / Phiritona

R8 604 802

TBC

Contractor terminated due to poor performance

December 2022

TBC

Ngwathe LM must procure new contractor

Ngwathe LM

Heilbron – Elevated water tower and 3km water pipeline

R18 720 677

No adjustment

April 2023

March 2024

Moqhaka LM

Kroonstad – 11th Avenue water pipeline and Bloemhoek Dam sluice gate

R24 189 695

R25 022 859

August 2023

June 2024

Northern Cape

ZF Mgcawu

Kakamas: Water treatment works

R 11 370 115

N/A

March 2023

N/A due to fact that IA’s allocation was converted from schedule 5b to 6b

Frances Baard

Construction of Carters Ridge Pump station (Phase1)

R 32 832 662

N/A

November 2018

June 2021

Frances Baard

Construction of Carters Ridge Pump station (Phase 2)

R 25 966 926

N/A

June 2021

July 2023

Frances Baard

Provision of dry sanitation toilets

R 8 383 078

N/A

June 2021

May 2022

Eastern Cape

Blue Crane Route Local Municipality

Refurbishment of Cookhouse Water Treatment Works

R18 799 060

N/A

November 2023

September 2024

Chris Hani DM

Chris Hani DM Cluster 7 Water Supply Scheme: Ngxogi Emadizeni Mantlaneni Xuka Entabeni Emantlwaneni Cefane Emafusini Mhlontlo KwaMhlontlo and Dwaleni/Matyeni Water Backlog Project

R2 000 000

N/A

July 2023

June 2024

Mpumalanga

Thaba Chweu LM

Refurbishment of the Lydenburg Waste Water Treatment Works

R114 777 382

N/A

June 2025

NA

13 March 2024 - NW352

Profile picture: Majola, Mr TR

Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister of Transport

What are the full details of all (a) sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers provided for lawfare and/or any other purposes to (i) her, (ii) her department and (iii) officials of her department by any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 1 January 2021 up to the latest date in 2024 for which information is available?

Reply:

3.1 In respect of Qatar, Iran and Russia for the period that covers 1 January 2021 up to the latest date in 2024, the reply is as follows:

a) Sponsorships

(aa) (i) Not applicable (aa)(ii) Not applicable (aa) (iii) Not applicable

(bb) (i) Not applicable (bb) (ii) Not applicable (bb) (iii) Not applicable

(cc) (i) Not applicable (cc) (ii) Not applicable (cc) (iii) Not applicable

b) Donations

(aa) (i) Not applicable (aa) (ii) Not applicable (aa) (iii) Not applicable

(bb) (i) Not applicable (bb) (ii) Not applicable (bb) (iii) Not applicable

(cc) (i) Not applicable (cc) (ii) Not applicable (cc) (iii) Not applicable

(c) Financial Transfers

(aa) (i) Not applicable (aa) (ii) Not applicable (aa) (iii) Not applicable

(bb) (i) Not applicable (bb) (ii) Not applicable (bb) (iii) Not applicable

(cc) (i) Not applicable (cc) (ii) Not applicable (cc) (iii) Not applicable

13 March 2024 - NW274

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Sithole, Mr KP to ask the Minister of Transport

Considering that her department acknowledged in the National Land Transport Strategic Framework (2023-2028) that nearly 80% of the national road network has exceeded its 20-year service life structure design and, furthermore, based on National Treasury estimates more than R255 billion will be needed over the next three years to build, upgrade and maintain the Republic’s road transport infrastructure, what (a) plans does her department have in place to address the Republic’s ailing road infrastructure and (b) is the breakdown of the budgetary allocations for such restorations per annum?

Reply:

Following the rapid decline in the condition of Provincial and Municipal roads, the Cabinet retreat of 1 June 2022 then appointed SANRAL as the lead agent to support Roads Authorities in fixing their roads in an integrated way through Operation Vala Zonke programme. In order to effectively provide this support, the Minister of Transport launched Operation Vala Zonke as part of the build-up to Presidential Imbizo that took place on 12 August 2022.

a) As part of the National intervention, the Department did put forward a national plan for road refurbishment and rehabilitation, that is: (i) Availing of Integrated Transport Information System (ITIS) for all authorities to use; (ii) Handing over of Road Condition and Traffic Data for uploading into ITIS; (iii) support on Network Verification, Data upload and spatial map, (iv) Rollout of the National / Centralised Road Authority App for authorities and the public to report potholes; (v) Signing of MOUs between SANRAL and Provincial Road Authorities for technical support; (vi) Consideration and transfer of Strategic and Primary road network to SANRAL to enable SANRAL to reprioritise its existing non toll budget to address the immediate maintenance needs of some of the critical roads and (vii) Private Sector Involvement and Adopt a Road programme to enable various private companies to make contributions towards the maintenance and upkeep of roads through their Corporate Social Investment and claim for BEE Scorecards and obtain Tax deduction for such donation and (viii) Upgrading of low volume gravel roads using block paving bricks and Nano technologies to maximise jobs through labour intensive methods.

To date, the public has reported over 45 000 of potholes using the App for the repair of which has actively been monitored via central war room. The above process is creating much higher levels of accountability at all spheres of government regarding road network and its maintenance.

b) The breakdown of budgetary allocation provided by the Department for road restorations per annum over the MTEF is summarised in table below:

Table 1: The breakdown of 2023/24 to 2026/27 budgetary allocation

Authority

2023/24 R’000

2024/25

R’000

2025/26

R’000

2026/27

R’000

SANRAL

25 430 715

25 720 319

28 845 591

30 169 036

Provincial Road Maintenance Grant (supplementary fund to assist the 9 Provinces

15 867 086

16 672 290

17 882 779

17 278 699

Total

41 297 801

42 392 609

46 728 558

47 447 735

Though the Department does not have a mandate to address municipal roads, the Department do provide support to municipalities by inviting them to participate on the joint Vala Zonke Operations to fix potholes.

13 March 2024 - NW379

Profile picture: Nolutshungu, Ms N

Nolutshungu, Ms N to ask the Minister of Transport

With reference to her reply to question 3312 for oral reply on 9 November 2023, wherein she indicated that there are a number of different subsidy models for taxis being considered and explored, what (a) are the full, relevant details of the subsidy model that is being considered for the taxi industry, (b) are the specific time frames for its implementation and (c) progress has been made to date?

Reply:

a) The referenced reply (to question 3312) stated that the Department is developing a public transport subsidy policy that will locate the subsidisation of minibus taxi users within the wider, multi-modal subsidy framework as part of the public transport funding reforms. This implies a move away from mode specific subsidisation to a subsidised network serviced by a combination of modes to minimise the cost of transport. Therefore, subsidy would be for public transport in general and not necessarily for taxis separately. The different models being considered includes the supply side, demand side and user targeting just to mention a few. Direct public transport subsidy applies exclusively to formalised public transport services and, in many cases, take the form of different types of contracting.

(b) The draft public transport subsidy policy has been published for public comments on the 23rd of February 2024 in Government Gazette 50176. The public consultation process will close on the 31st of March 2024 where after the Department will start the process of submitting the policy for Cabinet approval. Implementation will only commence once the final subsidy policy is approved by Cabinet.

(c) Refer to (b) above.