Questions and Replies
29 July 2024 - CW12
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
1. How many of the 68 land parcels that have been processed for the past three financial years have already been used for the sole purpose of building houses to address the shortage of housing?
Reply:
Find reply here
29 July 2024 - CW01
Breedt, Ms T to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
(1) With reference to the reply to Question 142 by her predecessor on 08 May 2024, who was responsible for the original seven boreholes that were sank; (2) whether Vaal Central Water had the necessary permission if such boreholes were sunk by them; if not, what is the position regarding this matter; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether there were any transfers of boreholes from Kopanong Local Municipality and/or any previous municipalities to Vaal Central Water in the past 30 years; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether any of such boreholes are currently used to relief water shortages in the Kopanong Local Municipality; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Find reply here
26 July 2024 - CW17
Ceza, Mr K to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
When will her department provide houses to the community of Enkanini, Extension 2 in Ward 01 in the Victor Khanye Local Municipality in the Nkangala District Municipality in Mpumalanga.
Reply:
Find reply here
26 July 2024 - CW24
Kennedy, Ms M to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(a) what urgent interventions have been taken regarding the certain person (details furnished) who was illegally evicted from Ammekaar farm Dewetsdorp, Xhariep District in the free state and (b) What progress her department has made on the promise to acquire land to build a house for such a person,
Reply:
Find reply here
25 July 2024 - NW38
Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(a) What is the status of the implementation of the National Assembly resolution on the closing down of the Israeli embassy and (b) when does he envisage the finalisation of this matter?
Reply:
a) Cabinet has not yet deliberated and made a final decision on the closure of the Israeli Embassy.
b) The Department of International Relations and Cooperation will act on instruction from Cabinet once a final decision has been made.
COMPILER DETAILS
NAME AND SURNAME: Tshelani Ndawonde
CONTACT: 012 351 0250
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Minister approves and signs the Parliamentary Reply to Parliamentary Question 38.
MR Z DANGOR
DIRECTOR–GENERAL: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE:
PARLIAMENTARY REPLY 38 IS APPROVED / NOT APPROVED / AMENDED.
COMMENT/S
MR RO LAMOLA, MP
MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE:
25 July 2024 - NW86
Douglas, Mr WM to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How does he intend to (a) address the issue of political appointments for ambassadorships and (b) ensure that ambassadorship positions are not used as retirement parachutes for elderly politicians?
Reply:
The President and not the Minister has the prerogative to appoint Heads of Mission in terms of Section 84 (2) (i) of the Constitution.
COMPILER DETAILS
NAME AND SURNAME: MS Maja
CONTACT: +27 12 351 1487
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Minister approves and signs the Parliamentary Reply to Parliamentary Question 86.
MR Z DANGOR
DIRECTOR–GENERAL: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE: 23/07/2024
PARLIAMENTARY REPLY 86 IS APPROVED / NOT APPROVED / AMENDED.
COMMENT/S
MR RO LAMOLA, MP
MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE:
25 July 2024 - NW84
Douglas, Mr WM to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
(a) What are his plans to address the issue of cadre deployment within his department and (b) how will his department ensure that diplomats are selected based on merit and are fit for purpose?
Reply:
The President has the prerogative to appoint Heads of Mission in terms of Section 84 (2) (i) of the Constitution.
The Foreign Service Act specifies the requirements for the appointment of a Head of Mission, which is implemented by my Department.
COMPILER DETAILS
NAME AND SURNAME: S Maja
CONTACT: + 27 12 351 1487
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Minister approves and signs the Parliamentary Reply to Parliamentary Question 84.
MR Z DANGOR
DIRECTOR–GENERAL: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE:
PARLIAMENTARY REPLY 84 IS APPROVED / NOT APPROVED / AMENDED.
COMMENT/S
MR RO LAMOLA, MP
MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
DATE:
Additional Information
24 July 2024 - CW12
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
1. How many of the 68 land parcels that have been processed for the past three financial years have already been used for the sole purpose of building houses to address the shortage of housing?
Reply:
Find reply here
30 April 2024 - NW646
Herron, Mr BN to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
In what total number of the 137 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases under investigation has the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) component (a) identified potential suspects who are still alive and may potentially be prosecuted, (b) established definitively that there are no living suspects who may be prosecuted and (c) is yet to establish whether there are living suspects who may be prosecuted; (2) whether the Department of Justice, NPA and/or DPCI is in possession of a definitive list of cases that were transferred from the TRC; if not, what is being referenced when he refers to cases that were referred by the TRC; if so, (a)(i) who compiled the specified list and (ii) on what date was it completed, (b)(i) on what date was the list transferred to the NPA and (ii) to whom, (c) what fields are included in the list and (d) what total number of cases are included?
Reply:
1(a) Thus far, there are eight (8) cases which are on the criminal court roll where suspects are being prosecuted for multiple offences emanating from TRC matters.
(b) In addition, two (2) matters are pending, as indictments are being prepared to charge suspects who are still alive. An additional two (2) matters, post the re-opening of inquests, have been identified where the NPA is considering possible decisions to prosecute.
(b)Establishing whether a suspect is still alive or not, form part of the investigation phase. Suspects are approached during the investigation, to obtain warning statements. This is informed by the evidence collated by an investigator. As such, NPA cannot, at this stage, advise as to which living suspects may be prosecuted.
(c) The purpose of all investigations is to ascertain whether a crime, which has not yet prescribed, was committed. If it has been established that there is enough evidence to charge a suspect, that person/s will be prosecuted. This decision can only be made once investigation is finalised. Those matters that are on the criminal court roll, are cases where it has been established that there are living suspects who must be charged.
2(a) The TRC Component is not in possession of a definitive list of cases that were transferred from the TRC. Fifty-nine (59) matters were identified by the Priority Crimes Litigation Unit (PCLU) by extracting the matters from the TRC Final Report.
2(b) and (c) Identification of additional matters from recommendations made in the TRC Final Report is an ongoing process. Currently the total number of identified cases is one hundred and fifty-eight (158). Twenty-one (21) matters have been finalised. This include the overturning of four re-opened inquests into deaths of detainees and a conviction of murder where the accused was sentenced to ten years direct imprisonment. One hundred and thirty-seven (137) matters are still under investigation. This includes re-opened inquests and inquests where the appointment of a Judge is awaited to preside over the matter and eight (8) matters which are presently on the criminal court roll. As indicated above a complete list of cases was not transferred to the NPA. The NPA is therefore not in a position to answer who received a definitive list of cases.
30 April 2024 - NW671
Schreiber, Dr LA to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1)How does he reconcile the constitutional injunction for the promotion of all South African official languages with the directive issued by the Legal Practice Council on 13 December 2023 forcing candidate attorneys to only write their legal examinations in English; (2) how does he find does the abandonment of multilingualism in favour of English monolingualism in the judicial system, impact upon the right to a fair trial that a person, who is not an English first-language speaker, may rely upon as provided for in section 35(3) of the Constitution of the Republic, 1996?
Reply:
Question 1:
1. The LPC does not form part of either national or provincial government. Nor is the LPC listed as a “national public entity” under the Public Finance Management Act, 1999, as contemplated in the Use of Official Languages Act 12 of 2012. As such, the suggestion that section 6(3)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 108 of 1996 (Constitution) is applicable to the language policy of the LPC is incorrect.
2. Prior to the decision to offer the examination papers in English only, the LPC offered the examination in both English and Afrikaans. Over the period from March 2021 to August 2023 no more than 26 candidates wrote the examinations in Afrikaans at any sitting. In the six examinations over this period this made up between 0.3 and 0.5% of the candidates sitting in the examinations (with total enrolments for the examinations varying between 4 912 and 7878 candidates per sitting).
3. Consistently with this observation, we note that whilst the LPC received complaints from a few organisations pursuant to the publication of its decision not to offer the examination in Afrikaans, not a single candidate legal practitioner raised an objection.
4. The continued offer of Afrikaans examinations for the benefit of a negligible number of candidates has disproportionate cost and logistical implications for the LPC. Moreover, in the last examinations of August 2023, discrepancies between the Afrikaans and English versions of the examination papers led to concerns about the unfair advantage offered to Afrikaans-speaking candidates sitting in the examinations.
5. Many of the considerations considered by the Constitutional Court in relation to the language policy of the University of the Free State, as set out in AfriForum and Another v University of the Free State 2018 (2) SA 185 (CC) apply with equal force in the present context.
6. We further drawn your attention to the fact that the LPC accredits training providers who offer the Practical Vocational Training structured coursework programmes. These programmes are offered, by the training providers (not the LPC), in English. The material is expensive to produce and update annually and is not also produced in Afrikaans. There is also insufficient demand to justify the costs of translation.
Question 2:
1. The LPC denies that its language policy, and its decision to offer competency-based examinations in English only, stand in breach of or in conflict with its objects as set out in section 5 of the Legal Practice Act 28 of 2014 (LPA). The objects of the LPC include for it to “facilitate the realisation of the goal of a transformed and restructured legal profession that is accountable, efficient and independent” (section 5(a)), which must perforce require of the LPC to bring into account equity, practicability, and the critical need to undo the damage caused by racial discrimination in its approach to language use and examination. Simply put, any criticism of, and engagement with, the LPC’s language policy and its decision to offer examinations in English only must occur by reference to the correct legal and factual context.
2. The reality is that English is the language of record in South African Courts. Whilst legal practitioners are free to provide legal advice to their clients in the language of their choice, and whilst accommodations are made in the court processes which take account of language rights of those represented, legal practitioners participate in legal processes almost exclusively through the medium of English. The competency of legal practitioners to participate in the legal processes through the medium of English is therefore of significant importance, to protect the interests of the public who make use of legal services.
30 April 2024 - NW817
Manyi, Mr M to ask the President of the Republic
(1)On what date did he become aware of the serious corruption allegations against the former Minister of Defence and Military Veterans during her tenure in the specified portfolio; (2) whether the information was known to him at the time when he discharged her as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I became aware of the allegations against the former Minister of Defence and Military Veterans when the allegations first appeared in the media early in March 2024.
Hence, I was not aware of the allegations at the time that I made changes to the National Executive in August 2021.
30 April 2024 - NW791
Alexander, Ms W to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
Considering that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) opportunities act as a bridging measure for the unemployed and short-term income relief for the unemployed, what (a) has been the budget allocation for EPWP over the past 5 years since May 2019 and (b) total number of the EPWP opportunities have been created for each of the past 5 years since May 2019?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
Over the past 5 years since 01 April 2019 – 31 December 2023 (up to end of quarter 3), the budget allocated to the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) as per the budget captured by public bodies in the EPWP Reporting System is reflected in the table below
Table 1: Budget allocation in rands for the EPWP since 01 April 2019 – 31 December 2023
Financial Year |
Environment and Culture Sector |
Infrastructure Sector |
Non-State Sector Community Work Programme |
Non-State Sector Non Profit Organisations |
Social Sector |
Grand Total |
2019/2020 |
9 778 531 595,87 |
94 060 139 810,20 |
3 830 657 283,00 |
715 822 037,56 |
17 998 137 901,57 |
126 383 288 628,21 |
2020/2021 |
8 325 690 889,08 |
88 939 775 308,40 |
3 678 733 714,00 |
362 503 405,10 |
12 373 292 802,64 |
113 679 996 119,22 |
2021/2022 |
10 943 739 725,55 |
128 421 274 739,53 |
3 621 796 351,40 |
963 569 674,70 |
22 633 388 387,70 |
166 583 768 878,89 |
2022/2023 |
10 487 208 343,67 |
202 087 919 306,63 |
4 029 089 866,00 |
1 457 253 036,55 |
19 281 798 091,97 |
237 343 268 644,82 |
2023/2024 |
14 027 459 830,00 |
292 674 434 688,00 |
3 817 322 298,00 |
1 051 777 886,00 |
14 739 533 833,00 |
326 310 528 535,00 |
Grand Total |
53 562 630 384,17 |
806 183 543 852,77 |
18 977 599 512,40 |
4 550 926 039,91 |
87 026 151 016,88 |
970 300 850 806,13 |
a) The total number of the EPWP opportunities which have been created for each of the past 5 years since 01 April 2019 – 31 December 2023 are reflected as follows:
Table 2: Total number of EPWP opportunities created since 01 April 2019 – 31 December 2023
Financial year |
Work Opportunities |
2019/20 |
994 699 |
2020/21 |
938 688 |
2021/22 |
1 016 646 |
2022/23 |
990 686 |
2023/24 |
773 192 |
Total |
4 713 911 |
30 April 2024 - NW691
Seitlholo, Mr IS to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
What is (a) the total number of staff members working in the Information and Communication Technology Section of his department, (b) their salary level and (c) the total amount in salaries paid to the staff members per annum?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(a) The total number of staff members working in the Information Communication and Technology Section is 54
(b) Please refer to the table for the number of employees per salary level.
Salary Level |
Number of Employees |
5 |
7 |
6 |
1 |
7 |
2 |
8 |
24 |
9 |
5 |
10 |
3 |
11 |
3 |
12 |
6 |
13 |
2 |
14 |
1 |
c) The total cost amount in salaries paid to the staff members per annum is R35 244 633,48
30 April 2024 - NW518
Sharif, Ms NK to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
With reference to the worrying and unacceptable increase in the rate of femicide in the Republic, what are the details of the steps her Office has taken since 1 June 2019 in the fight against femicide, including any steps taken to protect women from being murdered by their current or former intimate partners?
Reply:
The responsibility for combating the scourge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) rests with all-of-society if we are to make any meaningful progress toward its eradication. GBVF is a complex phenomenon that happens in families, households and communities thus we need all to be invested in the fight against this pandemic. From each individual, household/family, community to all state actors, there is a need for a concerted no tolerance to GBVF in all its forms. This will ensure the implementation of both proactive and reactive measures to combat the scourge.
In March 2020, Cabinet approved the National Strategic Plan on GBVF and the establishment of both the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on GBVF and the National Council on GBVF. The implementation of the NSP on GBVF coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Since 2020, the department coordinates and monitors the implementation of the NSP on GBVF by governments and key stakeholders monthly.
With this understanding in mind, the department coordinates and monitors the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF) by government and key stakeholders monthly.
Despite the COVID-19 context, the government continued to address GBVF as a twin pandemic so as to better understand its impact on women. We set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on GBVF in June 2020 consisting of the Ministers of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities as the convener; Social Development; Police; Justice and Correctional Services; Public Service and Administration and National Treasury to guide the process of implementation.
There are pockets of positive results through various multi-sectoral collaborative platforms that implement joint interventions and funding mechanisms. We have the END GBVF Collective that has been implementing 100 days challenges; and the faith sector collaborative platform that plays a central role in prevention and rebuilding social cohesion.
In February 2021 we launched the private sector GBVF Response Fund. The fund follows the principles enshrined in the NSP on GBVF of harnessing the roles, responsibilities and resources of all stakeholders.
The relationship between civil society networks and governments have allowed for a strengthened and coordinated implementation. Various development partners and academic institutions have also contributed towards implementation.
The process of localisation is bolstered by the establishment and capacitation of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at district and local municipality levels across the country. The department does not have a provincial foot. To strengthen reach, through support from European Union Gender equality and women’s empowerment programme we have appointed GBVF technical monitors and data capturers and placed them in provinces.
The department has driven the National Council on GBVF Bill as a game-changer in the fight against GBVF. Key principles in the Bill include coordination championed by the highest political office, a multi-sectoral structure, institutional independence and autonomy, a ring-fenced budget with a dedicated GBVF fund, a bottom-up approach across all government tiers, and significant collaboration between government and civil society.
For the 2023/2024 Annual Performances Plan, the Department committed to monitor and enforce accountability to the targets of the NSP on GBVF including but not limited to reporting on implementation of the NSP on GBVF by government and key stakeholders through the following interventions:
1) Submission of monthly progress reports that are collated and analysed by the department; and quality assured by the Department of Planning, monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) and the Presidency; used to produce annual reports.
2) The Department presents these progress reports that outlines gaps, challenges and areas of improvement across the 6 NSP on GBVF Pillars to various Directors-General Clusters and the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD) as a standing item. These monthly reports are translated into a quarterly report for the attention of the President.
3) The department utilizes these reports as a tool to monitor, enforce accountability of Accounting Officers and afford them the opportunity to assess progress made by their respective departments in implementing their allocated NSP on GBVF targets and take necessary corrective measures.
4) The 2 NSP on GBVF Annual Reports produced by the department include the score cards that further reflect the level of sector department performance across the 6 Pillars of the NSP on GBVF and recommendations for implementation.
Ultimately our success is about women, children and LGBTQIA+ persons feeling safe and free in their homes, in their communities and in themselves. We have also developed a prevention strategy as prevention is key in curbing murders and all forms of gendered violence. Currently, we are in the process of driving the concept of dealing with GBVF as a pandemic. We had the inaugural workshop with government stakeholders across all tiers in March 2024. In this drive, we want to use our convening power as the department to institutionalise a coordinated national response from national, to provinces, to districts, municipalities and to ward levels.
GBVF continues to be a national crisis, and this may make it difficult to see the pockets of progress. We have been intensifying efforts to harness all to collectively respond, accelerate efforts, and develop partnerships and strategies toward a whole-of-society approach toward eradicating GBVF.
30 April 2024 - NW645
Tambo, Mr S to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
Whether, with reference to the case between Mr Nkosana Makate and Vodacom regarding the intellectual property ownership of the Please Call Me concept, which has been of public interest for many years, his department has explored the veracity of Vodacom’s claims that paying Mr Nkosana Makate what is rightfully due to him would affect the company’s contribution to public finances; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) what role has his department played in protecting creatives like Mr Makate from corporate exploitation?
Reply:
I have been informed by the Department as follows:
1. No. The Department does not involve itself in the operations of companies, in regard to intellectual property issues among a myriad of other matters, be they traded or publicly listed. The company therefore has a fiduciary duty to comply with all financial, legal and regulatory obligations in regard to its contributions to the fiscus.
2. This does not fall within the mandate of the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies but rather the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW346
Khakhau, Ms KL to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
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) him, (ii) his department and (iii) officials of his 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:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, his department and officials of his department have not received any (a) sponsorships, (b) donations and (c) financial transfers for lawfare and/or any other purposes by any (aa) Qatari, (bb) Iranian and/or (cc) Russian organ of state, organisation and/or resident since 1 January 2021 up to 29 February 2024.
30 April 2024 - NW842
Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
What (a) total number of times has the SA Bureau of Standards appointed a service provider to appoint a Chief Executive Officer and (b) has been the total cost of the consulting fees to date?
Reply:
The South African Bureau of Standards has advised as follows:
A service provider was appointed in 2020, when the SABS was led by Administrators.
They conducted the search including advertising, the development of a longlist for the SABS to consider and shortlisting. Following the appointment of a new Board, the process was re-activated in 2023, and the same service provider was asked to conclude the work. The work completed covers the following: advertising, response handling, preparing and presenting a longlist, and headhunting. The Board concluded however that no appointment could be made based on the recommendation of the service provider. The consultancy fee was R209 999.
A new service provider was appointed in 2023 to continue with the process of searching for the suitable candidate in the position of the SABS CEO. The work included advertising, processing of responses, headhunting and candidate sourcing. The cost of consultancy fees to date is R429 333.
-END-
30 April 2024 - NW612
Le Goff, Mr T to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
With reference to his reply to question 97 on 24 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price of all the official vehicles purchased for (i) him and (ii) each Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
(a), (b), (c), (d), (e)
- No vehicle has been purchased for use by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, since 8 May 2019. He uses Toyota Fortuner vehicles purchased in 2010 (14 years old) and 2016 (8 years old), as official vehicles. They are made in South Africa and have proven to be reliable and resilient.
- Details of vehicles purchased for the use of the Deputy Ministers since 8 May 2019 has not changed since the previous reply of 24 February 2023.
-END-
30 April 2024 - NW504
Sonti, Ms NP to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Considering that during the period 1 October to 31 December 2023 there were more than 15 000 reported sexual offences and 12 000 rape cases in the Republic, which is an indication that all attempts to prevent the criminal scourge are failing, what special monitoring mechanisms does her Office have in place that feed into any specific intervention she intends to make alongside the Ministers in the Security Cluster, to protect women and youth from being sexually molested and raped every day?
Reply:
The responsibility for combating the scourge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) rests with all-of-society if we are to make any meaningful progress toward its eradication. GBVF is a complex phenomenon that happens in families, households and communities thus we need all to be invested in the fight against this pandemic. From each individual, household/family, community to all state actors, there is a need for a concerted no tolerance to GBVF in all its forms. This will ensure the implementation of both proactive and reactive measures to combat the scourge.
In March 2020, Cabinet approved the National Strategic Plan on GBVF and the establishment of both the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on GBVF and the National Council on GBVF. The implementation of the NSP on GBVF coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Since 2020, the department coordinates and monitors the implementation of the NSP on GBVF by governments and key stakeholders monthly.
With this understanding in mind, the department coordinates and monitors the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF) by government and key stakeholders monthly.
Despite the COVID-19 context, the government continued to address GBVF as a twin pandemic so as to better understand its impact on women. We set up an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on GBVF in June 2020 consisting of the Ministers of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities as the convener; Social Development; Police; Justice and Correctional Services; Public Service and Administration and National Treasury to guide the process of implementation.
There are pockets of positive results through various multi-sectoral collaborative platforms that implement joint interventions and funding mechanisms. We have the END GBVF Collective that has been implementing 100 days challenges; and the faith sector collaborative platform that plays a central role in prevention and rebuilding social cohesion.
In February 2021 we launched the private sector GBVF Response Fund. The fund follows the principles enshrined in the NSP on GBVF of harnessing the roles, responsibilities and resources of all stakeholders.
The relationship between civil society networks and governments have allowed for a strengthened and coordinated implementation. Various development partners and academic institutions have also contributed towards implementation.
The process of localisation is bolstered by the establishment and capacitation of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at district and local municipality levels across the country. The department does not have a provincial foot. To strengthen reach, through support from European Union Gender equality and women’s empowerment programme we have appointed GBVF technical monitors and data capturers and placed them in provinces.
The department has driven the National Council on GBVF Bill as a game-changer in the fight against GBVF. Key principles in the Bill include coordination championed by the highest political office, a multi-sectoral structure, institutional independence and autonomy, a ring-fenced budget with a dedicated GBVF fund, a bottom-up approach across all government tiers, and significant collaboration between government and civil society.
For the 2023/2024 Annual Performances Plan, the Department committed to monitor and enforce accountability to the targets of the NSP on GBVF including but not limited to reporting on implementation of the NSP on GBVF by government and key stakeholders through the following interventions:
1) Submission of monthly progress reports that are collated and analysed by the department; and quality assured by the Department of Planning, monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) and the Presidency; used to produce annual reports.
2) The Department presents these progress reports that outlines gaps, challenges and areas of improvement across the 6 NSP on GBVF Pillars to various Directors-General Clusters and the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD) as a standing item. These monthly reports are translated into a quarterly report for the attention of the President.
3) The department utilizes these reports as a tool to monitor, enforce accountability of Accounting Officers and afford them the opportunity to assess progress made by their respective departments in implementing their allocated NSP on GBVF targets and take necessary corrective measures.
4) The 2 NSP on GBVF Annual Reports produced by the department include the score cards that further reflect the level of sector department performance across the 6 Pillars of the NSP on GBVF and recommendations for implementation.
Ultimately our success is about women, children and LGBTQIA+ persons feeling safe and free in their homes, in their communities and in themselves. We have also developed a prevention strategy as prevention is key in curbing murders and all forms of gendered violence. Currently, we are in the process of driving the concept of dealing with GBVF as a pandemic. We had the inaugural workshop with government stakeholders across all tiers in March 2024. In this drive, we want to use our convening power as the department to institutionalise a coordinated national response from national, to provinces, to districts, municipalities and to ward levels.
GBVF continues to be a national crisis, and this may make it difficult to see the pockets of progress. We have been intensifying efforts to harness all to collectively respond, accelerate efforts, and develop partnerships and strategies toward a whole-of-society approach toward eradicating GBVF.
30 April 2024 - NW360
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What is the total number of schools in each province which still have pit toilets and (b) on what date is it envisaged that the pit toilets will be completely eradicated?
Reply:
The question falls under the Executive Authorities of the Members of the Executive Council (MECs) of the 9 provinces. The Hon Member is kindly requested to refer the question to the MECs as per section 92(3)(b) of the Constitution and Rule 134(5)(b) of the NA rules.
30 April 2024 - NW614
Majola, Mr TR to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
With reference to her reply to question 100 on 24 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price of all the official vehicles purchased for (i) her and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
(i) MINISTER
Not applicable.
(ii) FORMER MINISTER
- Make – Audi
- Model – Q5
- Year of manufacture – 2020
- Date of purchase – June 2020
- Cost R800 000 inclusive of security features
(iii) DEPUTY MINISTER
Not applicable.
(iv) FORMER DEPUTY MINISTER
- Make – Audi
- Model – Q5
- Year of manufacture – 2020
- Date of purchase – January 2020
- Cost R800 000 inclusive of security features
30 April 2024 - NW574
Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
With regard to the National Gambling Board and since the appointment of the Chief Strategic Advisor (CSA) and Accounting Officer, Ms Caroline Kongwa, over a decade ago, what (a) are the reasons that (i) a new board has not been established and (ii) a new Chief Executive Officer not appointed and (b) is the total salary of the current CSA and Accounting Officer per annum?
Reply:
I am advised as follows:
The former members of the Board were suspended in August 2014 pending a forensic investigation following allegations of maladministration, wasteful expenditure and corrupt activities reported by the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) in the NGB’s 2013/14 annual report and financial performance.
The suspended Board members had reportedly contravened the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) through failing to prevent irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure and making overdrafts on the entity’s bank account without the approval of the Minister of Finance. Furthermore, the Board’s accounting authority, acting either individually or jointly, had allegedly contravened the National Gambling Act by allowing members whose term of office had expired to continue participating in the Board’s activities and representing the NGB.
Two Administrators were appointed from September 2014 to continue with the work of the NGB. The current Chief Strategic Advisor (CSA) was appointed in April 2019 following her stint as former administrator to the NGB.
The National Gambling Amendment Bill was introduced to Parliament in August 2018 and passed by the National Assembly in December 2018. The Bill sought to remove the concept of a Board comprising various external members, and replacing this concept with governance led by a Chief Executive Officer, with the assistance of a Deputy CEO. The policy position taken by the Department at the time was that the National Gambling Regulator be established in line with other entities of the dtic after considering the dtic research on Agency Rationalization which found that maintaining the board system was costly and did not contribute towards internal efficiencies of the NGB. However, the Bill was not adopted by the National Council of Provinces (Council) in 2019 and lapsed to the current Parliament. The Bill was revived and was referred to Mediation in December 2021 after it was not t supported by several provinces. The Bill has been in Parliament to date pending the Mediation process.
The delay in the finalisation of the National Gambling Amendment Bill has contributed to the delay in the appointment of the CEO as the appointment needs to be aligned with the Amendment Act.
I am advised that the current total gross salary for the NGB CSA is R2 553 905. As indicated in replies to Questions Number 450, 575 and 745, remuneration matters are now the subject of an investigation commissioned by the Department.
-END-
30 April 2024 - NW852
Essack, Mr F to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
What total amount has (a)(i) Eskom, (ii) the SA Airways and (iii) Transnet lost due to (aa) corruption, (bb) fraud and (cc) bribery in the past five years and (b) been recovered in each case?
Reply:
In addressing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission, the department formed working groups with Special Investigating Unit (“SIU”), state organs and other enforcement agencies to implement proclamations relating to maladministration concerning the affairs of SOCs. This initiative resulted in the employment of a civil litigation strategy to recover funds associated with SOC losses sustained during the state capture era and other forms of administrative corruption.
According to the information received from Eskom:
(a) Total amount Eskom lost due to:
- Corruption: R203 156237-00.
- The amount is included above,
- The amount is included above since bribery is a form of corruption.
(b) The amounts below exclude amounts related to investigations conducted by the SIU. Process to recover outstanding amounts by the Asset Forfeiture Unit or in terms of the court order is ongoing.
Project number |
Value |
Reporting Period |
2018 -12568 |
R3 330 000 |
FY 18/19 |
2018 - 12451 |
R403 994 |
FY 20/21 |
2020 - 13218 |
R1200 000 |
FY 21/22 |
Project number |
Value |
Reporting Period |
2022 - 14037 |
R130 076.24 |
FY 22/23 |
2021 - 13600 |
R51 620 |
FY 22/23 |
2023 - 14158 |
R90 000 |
FY 23/24 |
(c) Consultation with SIU has revealed the following success in progress registered in relation to recoveries (including ABB, Koeberg disputes, Kusile and daily corruption at power stations):
Parties |
Nature of Dispute |
Claim Amount |
Status |
SIU v SAP and Eskom |
On 10 November 2022, the SIU instituted action against SAP. Eskom was cited as a second defendant; however, no relief is sought against Eskom. The SIU seeks the following relief:
3. Ordering SAP to pay Eskom an amount of R1,01 billion. |
R1.1bn |
The settlement agreement R 500 million has been signed by both parties and SIU is the process of making it an order of the court. |
SIU / Eskom / ABB South Africa Pty Limited (ABB) |
On 31 March 2023 the SIU, Eskom and ABB filed an ex parte application to review and set aside set aside the contract awarded to for ABB the supply and installation of the Control and Instrumentation Systems at Kusile Power Station and for consequent just and equitable relief. |
R1.56 billion |
In December 2020, Eskom/SIU and ABB concluded a settlement agreement in terms of which ABB repaid an amount of R1.56 billion to Eskom The court order was issued on 05 April 2024 and Eskom and SIU were ordered to publish said order in both English and Afrikaans newspapers within 15 day of the order. |
Eskom vs Deloitte |
Eskom instituted action for the setting aside of the award of two contracts to Delloitte on the basis that they were improperly awarded, and the recovery of approximately R207 million. |
R207 million |
On 20 March 2020, Eskom and Delloite concluded a settlement agreement in terms of which Delloite agreed to pay an amount of R150 million to Eskom. It was further agreed that investigations had shown no evidence of state capture or corruption on the part of Delloite, there were technical irregularities in the procurement process, Eskom had benefited from the services rendered by Delloites, and that Delloites was entitled to be compensated for the services rendered to Eskom. |
Eskom vs McKinsey and Company |
Eskom instituted a claim against Mckinsey for the recovery of the fee paid in respect of consultancy services rendered which were unlawfully awarded. |
R1.7 billion |
In July 2018 Eskom and McKinsey concluded a settlement agreement of R 1 billion. |
Eskom vs Trillian |
In 2018, Eskom obtained a court order against Trillian for the payment of R595 million related to the fraudulent pretext of Trillian being a supplier development and localisation partner to McKinsey |
R595 million |
The amount has not yet been recovered due to ongoing liquidation proceedings. |
According to the information received from South African Airways:
Since 2019, South African Airways (SAA), have lost a total of R23 056 231.17 due to corruption, fraud and bribery. Of this amount a total of R17 209 114 has been recovered.
Year |
Amounts lost due to: |
Amounts recovered |
||
corruption |
fraud |
bribery |
||
2023 |
R78 205, 98 |
R0.00 |
||
2022 |
R126 000 |
R126 000 |
||
2021 |
R10 600 000 |
R14 483 114.00 Inclusive of interest |
||
2020 |
Nil |
|||
2019 |
R12 252 025,19 |
R2 600 000 Preservation order was granted |
According to the information received from Transnet:
TRANSNET CIVIL RECOVERY ASSOCIATED WITH PROCUREMENT IRREGULARITY TO DATE (APRIL 2024) |
|
MATTER |
AMOUNT RECOVERED |
McKinsey |
R870m |
Transaction Advisory Services - Regiments; Trillian and previous Transnet executives |
R1,5m |
1064 Locomotive Supply Agreements (“LSA”) with:
|
Settlements to be presented for Order of Court in Review Application |
Liebherr |
R54m Settlement to be presented for Order of Court in Review Application |
SAP |
R244m Part of omnibus settlement in collaboration with SIU and National Prosecuting Authority |
IGS and former employees |
R26m per judgement |
PPE procurement (procurement of breathalyzer straws) |
R37m |
TOTAL |
R1,678,8bn |
1. Transnet investigates all allegations received pertaining to fraud, corruption and bribery. This is encapsulated in our Whistle Blowing policy as well as the Anti-Fraud and Corruption policy. Allegations originate from issues reported via the Whistle Blower hotline, internal reports received via management as well as from completed Transnet Internal Audit and Auditor General of South Africa audits/reviews which either recommend further investigations or which identify red flags relating to possible fraud and corruption. Allegations are also received from the Department Public Enterprises (DPE) Hotline as well as from civil society and Transnet investigates all these allegations, including allegations and reports which are published in the media.
2. Transnet Internal Investigations focus attention on gathering and assessing information and evidence which is within Transnet’s domain. There are limitations for Transnet to access information pertaining to financial flows relating to external parties. Transnet therefore places significant reliance on law enforcement agencies and the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to conduct further enquiries in matters where alleged or suspected cases of fraud, corruption and bribery are referred as per the respective legislative frameworks. This includes reporting obligations stemming specifically from Section 34 of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, 2004 (PRECCA) which places a duty on defined persons in a position of authority (i.e. director, manager, Chief Executive Officer) to report offences over R100,000.
3. Transnet institutes civil recovery proceedings, generally with the SIU, in the High Court or Special Tribunal to set aside all irregular contracts associated with fraud, corruption or bribery. These contacts are taken on review with the intention to recover on a just and equitable basis.
4. Transnet also refers all allegations of fraud, corruption and bribery to law enforcement agencies to investigate for criminal prosecution.
Matters referred to Law Enforcement:
1. Transnet has referred 15 cases of alleged corruption and 11 cases of alleged fraud to law enforcement agencies for further investigation. Transnet’s actual losses can only be determined once the outcome of the criminal investigation is concluded where the extent of the losses can be quantified.
2.The total value of matters referred by Transnet to law enforcement for further investigation is R2,119,116,991.78. This represents the value of the contracts or transactions where there are allegations of wrongdoing. This can broadly be broken down as follows:
a) Corruption allegations to the value of R1,907,625,107.00
b) Fraud allegations to the value of R211,491,884.78
c) Bribery. Transnet does not capture data with respect to bribery as this would be covered under the offence of corruption.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
30 April 2024 - NW258
Hendricks, Mr MGE to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
(1) Whether the National Conventional Arms Control Committee received any names of applicants whose applications in terms of the Regulation of the Foreign Military Assistance Act, No. 15 of 1998, to render support under the flag of a foreign country in a plausible genocide that the Republic does not support or agree with, were declined by the SA National Defence Force, yet such applicants nevertheless continued to render such support in a genocide and/or the names of persons who failed to apply for permission in terms of the Regulation of the Foreign Military Assistance Act, No. 15 of 1998, but who is nevertheless providing such assistance under a foreign flag; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what is the total number of names in this regard that his department received; (2) whether the National Conventional Arms Control Committee received any additional names; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what steps has the National Conventional Arms Control Committee taken in respect of such additional names it received?
Reply:
The NCACC has not received any names of applications whose applications in terms of the Regulations of the Foreign Military Assistance Act, No 15 of 1998, were declined by the SA National Defence Force to render support under the flag of a foreign country in a plausible genocide that the Republic does not support or agree with, but who nevertheless continued to render such support in a genocide and/or the names of persons who failed to apply for permission in terms of the Regulation of the Foreign Military Assistance Act, No 15 of 1998.
The NCACC does not have any names of persons who failed to apply (applications) in terms of the Regulations of the Foreign Military Assistance Act, No. 15 of 1998, but is providing such assistance under a foreign flag in a war that the Republic does not support.
The NCACC does not and/or should not receive a name-list from a source when applying under the RFMA since each application is considered on a case by case basis and should meet certain criteria for consideration and possible approval. The South African National Defence Force is constituted in terms of s200 under the Constitution (Act 108 of 1996). This is informed by s198 which are the guiding principles of Security Services in South Africa, while s199 reflects the establishment, structuring and conduct of Security Services. This is the casting of the centrepiece of the RFMA.
The RFMA Act states that it intends: to regulate the rendering of foreign military assistance by South African juristic persons, citizens, persons permanently resident within the Republic and foreign citizens rendering such assistance from within the borders of the Republic.
It is trite that given the intention of this Legislation (supra), areas of conflict wherever they occur in the world would be out of bounds for South Africans (Natural and Juristic) and would not enjoy assent of the Republic to partake in.
Further, it is common cause that should it be a case that a South African is involved in an area of conflict. This would be done without the support of the Government of South Africa.
Furthermore, whenever should such violators of the Act be identified, and such participation can be proven the full course of the law shall be visited upon to penalise them.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW330
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
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) him, (ii) his department and (iii) officials of his 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 informed by the Department as follows:
No such sponsorships, donations and financial transfers were received by the Minister, the DCDT or departmental officials.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW764
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1)(a) What is the status of the court case at the Equality Court in Gauteng regarding the alleged racist utterances made by a certain person (name and details furnished) and (b) by what date is it envisaged that the specified court would reach an outcome; (2) what are the reasons that the specified matter has not been addressed and/or prioritised yet, while other racist utterances like that of Ms Penny Sparrow were met with a guilty verdict of hate speech within a short period of time; (3) whether he has found that the specified person is receiving special treatment; if not, what are the reasons that the specified person has not been held accountable yet; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The matter is being dealt with by the SA Human Rights Commission who have provided me inter alia with the following report:
The complaint was initiated by the Commission’s Northern Cape Provincial Office (NCPO) when they became aware of the audio recording. The NCPO made a preliminary assessment of the complaint and determined that the complaint would best be dealt with through litigation in the Equality Court.
The NCPO established that the respondent’s primary residence was in Gauteng and as per the Commissions Complaints Handling Procedure in August 2023, the complaint was transferred to the Gauteng Provincial Office (GPO).
The GPO has:
- appointed a tracing agent to confirm the respondents address;
- briefed counsel to draft an application in terms of section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act against the respondent based on the utterances made by him in the audio recordings;
- forwarded a letter to the Respondent (via his attorneys) in April 2024 to obtain his response to the complaint. The GPO awaits the Respondent’s response.
30 April 2024 - NW630
Mazzone, Ms NW to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
1.What is the status of the liquidity of the SA Post Office SOC Ltd, in view of the Post Office of Tomorrow strategy requiring a R4 billion bailout that has not been allocated to the SA Post Office in the 2024-25 budget; 2. whether the Post Office intends to collaborate with partners in the private sector to ensure that it continues to deliver services; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been informed by the SAPO as follows:
1. The R3.8 billion additional funding requirement has been integrated into the financial projections of the Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) in the endorsed business rescue plan, which received approval from the majority of SAPO creditors on December 7, 2023. The funding is essential for implementing the business rescue plan, including settling creditor dividends as outlined, investing in CAPEX to modernize mail operating facilities, branch networks, logistics fleet, and information technology infrastructure. Continuous discussions have been held with the National Treasury and the Minister of Finance to explore solutions that ensure the SA Post Office is adequately capitalized in alignment with the business rescue plan.Strategic partnerships play a crucial role in the Business Rescue Plan.
2. Numerous interested parties have put forward proposals, which will undergo a comprehensive review by an internal investment committee established by the joint BRPs at SAPO. This process will ensure a thorough evaluation of all potential partnership opportunities, to strategically select collaborations that will best support the entity's turnaround strategy.
I thank you
30 April 2024 - NW812
Hendricks, Mr MGE to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
(1)Whether she has found that her department has made any impact in the small business development sector; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (a) what tangible evidence is there that the impact managed to produce positive instead of negative outcomes and (b) will she comment on the role of her department to assist struggling communities; (2) whether she has found that the slow pace of performance by the Small Enterprise Development Agency in funding credible applicants has been a hindrance to the development of small businesses; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
I have been advised that:
1.(a&b) The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) has implemented a number of programmes to support the development of SMMES in the sixth administration.
(i) To date, a total of 68 802 Township and Rural enterprises were supported financially and non-financially since 2019. A critical intervention by the DSBD is the recently designed Township Rural and Entrepreneurship Programme which by end of December 2023 had approved R 1 054 899 738 in funding to 10 148 SMMEs, facilitating 19 692 jobs; and disbursed R 930 814 096 in funding to 9 617 SMMEs, facilitating 17 708 jobs. Furthermore, by the end of quarter 3 (2023/34), the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda) provided 3249 SMMEs with non-financial support.
(ii) The Department has made some impact in one of its programmes, namely the Shared Economic Infrastructure Facility (SEIF) through the following supported projects proving business infrastructure to communities.
- Letsatsi Pty Ltd in partnership with Mangaung Municipality and Free State Dept of Economic Development supported eighteen SMMEs with trading facilities using the container conversion model.
- Chris Hani Co-operative Development Centre in partnership with Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) and Chris Hani District Municipality supported forty to hundred emerging farmers/co-operatives that are supplying retailers like Spar through the renovation and construction of the packhouse and fertiliser blending plant, Eastern Cape.
- Wouldn’t be Cool Pty Ltd in partnership with Kgosi Maubane through the agricultural irrigation project supported sixteen beneficiaries that are small businesses based in Hammaskraal.
- Sol Plaatjie Municipality in partnership with Letselebe Pty Ltd supported thirty-three (33) informal businesses through the infrastructure using the container conversion model at Craven Street next to the taxi rank, Northern Cape.
- Seda partnership with eThekwini Municipality supported sixty informal traders with facilities at KwaMashu train station that are selling meat (intloko, mogodu and amanqina), KwaZulu-Natal.
- King Sabatha Dalindyebo Municipality supported hundred (100) informal business that are selling traditional clothes and medicine through the refurbishment of Kwa Ntozonke Market, Eastern Cape.
(iii) The Department has designated the informal business sector as a significant contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), employment creation, sustainable livelihoods and local economic development in the country. As an outcome to this, the National Informal Business Upliftment Strategy (NIBUS) was developed. The strategy is aimed at supporting informal businesses, which are mostly based in township and rural areas, to ensure that they become part of the economic mainstream of the country. This is being achieved through the implementation of various policy and programme interventions. The overall outcome of this strategy will be to gradually unleash the innovative entrepreneurial potential of informal businesses to broaden economic participation and foster inclusive growth through partnerships.
The strategy is aligned to the vision and priorities of the National Development Plan (NDP), responds to decent employment through inclusive growth, the promotion of local manufacturing and one of the key pillars of the New Growth Path (NGP), which seeks to raise employment and alleviate poverty. The strategy is also aligned to game changers (high-impact programmes/projects).
The Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP) instrument has been designed as part of the recommendations of NIBUS to pool resources to support the sector, particularly since most of the existing incentives within Government at large do not cover informal businesses. Key functions of the facility include skills development, compliance support, equipment, machinery, infrastructure and technological support for informal and micro businesses. It also supports capacity building (enhancement) to informal businesses by collaborating with business associations and municipalities as delivery partners.
During the financial year of 2023/24, over 3400 informal and micro enterprises in poor and underserved communities throughout the country have been assisted with tolls, machinery and other relevant equipment through IMEDP to grow and sustain their businesses. Extensive monitoring and evaluation are yet to be undertaken to measure the full impact of these interventions. Early indications are that the growing demand for the support is as a result of the visible effectiveness of the interventions observed in those that have received the support.
(iv) A total of 24 876 youth businesses were supported with entrepreneurship. Since the Department started implementing this target in 2021/22 financial year. DSBD is implementing the Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) a financial and non-financial support fund aimed at stimulating innovation amongst youth start-ups to enable them to acquire digital capability in order to participate fully in the digital Industrial Revolution - 4IR and beyond. Budget through the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (sefa) and the Department has disbursed R1,6 billion to enterprises owned by youth over the period.
(v) The Seda Technology Programme (STP) assists through its Technology Transfer Assistance (TTA) in funding and acquiring manufacturing and processing technology. With the manufacturing and processing equipment, many businesses are able to produce on a much larger scale and at a reduced production cost. Also, the quality of products manufactured improved tremendously. Large orders produced were sold at various retail outlets and digital platforms. The following businesses were supported by TTA programme:
Name of business (location)
-
- Sinotho Electrical (KwaZulu Natal)
- Mmutle Mining Projects (Mpumalanga)
- Guduza Engineering (Mpumalanga)
- Chads Power Engineering and Suppliers (KwaZulu Natal)
- S Mach Engineering (KwaZulu Natal)
- Ngaraga Properties (Pty) Ltd T/A Lindiwe Sanitary Pads (Johannesburg)
The TTA in partnership with the Export Credit Insurance Company (ECIC), assisted a business with acquisition of processing and packaging technology machines to a value of R1 098 000. This enabled the business to meet and exceeded the customer’s expectations for quality, on time delivery, and high demand volumes. The packaging technology, successfully acquired through the TTA/ECIC fund, included an automated industrial sealing machine and foot sealer, date coding and barcoding machines at different pack sizes, box printing, sealing connected to a conveyor belt, a pallet wrapper, a heat tunnel and a semi-automatic L-sealer (to seal packs into sizes required by the customer).
The business is now listed with Kit Kat Wholesalers and Devland Cash and Carry, amongst others, and has started deliveries to five (5) Kit Kat Wholesales and two (2) Devland Cash and Carry outlets. The business is also listed with Clicks for their private labels (house brands) and has already started deliveries. Turnover increased by 344% and the number of jobs increased from fourteen (14) part-time staff to twenty (20). Two (2) permanent jobs were retained. The systems were developed and implemented successfully. The client is certified in accordance with ISO9001:2015 and is enjoying the benefits of being one of the few black companies in their field that are fully compliant and certified.
Furthermore, Seda has supported women-owned businesses with several interventions which included incubation, business management training, productivity and quality improvement interventions. Of the 61 739 businesses supported, 35% were women owned.
(vi) Seda supports a number of incubators in different sectors of the economy. An amount of R 147.2 million was spent to support SMMEs via the various Seda supported incubators and a total number of 2 507 businesses received support through this incubation network. Furthermore, an additional eleven (11) sector focused incubators were approved for establishment during the 2022/23 financial year.
(vii) The Seda Success Stories documenting the support provided to SMMEs is attached as Annexure A.
(viii) Seda supports struggling communities primarily by promoting entrepreneurship and small business development. Here are some ways in which Seda supports these communities:
Business Development Support: Seda's business development support services are comprehensive, aiming to address the diverse needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses in struggling communities. One key service is business planning, where Seda assists entrepreneurs in developing clear and actionable business plans. These plans outline their business goals, strategies, and financial projections, providing a roadmap for success.
Financial management is another critical area of support provided by Seda. Many entrepreneurs in struggling communities face challenges in managing their finances effectively. Seda helps them develop financial literacy skills, understand financial statements, and access financing options such as loans and grants. This support is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of their businesses.
Marketing support is also a key focus for Seda. They help entrepreneurs develop marketing strategies that are tailored to their target markets and budgets. This includes guidance on branding, advertising, and digital marketing. By helping entrepreneurs effectively market their products or services, Seda increases their visibility and competitiveness in the market.
Access to markets is a major challenge for many entrepreneurs in struggling communities, and Seda addresses this by facilitating access to market channels. This includes helping entrepreneurs identify potential buyers, distributors, and partners, as well as providing information on market trends and opportunities. By helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of the market, Seda increases their chances of success and contributes to the economic development of struggling communities.
Access to Finance: Seda helps entrepreneurs in struggling communities access finance through various means, such as facilitating access to loans, grants, and venture capital. These funding instruments are blended finance from Development Financial Institutions (sefa, IDC, etc.) as well as from commercial banks and philanthropists mandated to assist SMMEs with grants.
Training and Skills Development: Seda offers training and skills development programs to help entrepreneurs and small business owners in struggling communities improve their business skills and knowledge. Some of these programmes are implemented by partnering with like-minded institutions such as the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&R Seta), the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Seta (MERSETA) as well as the National Skills Fund (NSF).
Networking and Partnerships: Seda facilitates networking and partnerships between entrepreneurs, small businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote collaboration and business growth. Women entrepreneurship is very high on its agenda and through the SheTrades Programme and the Cherie Blair Foundation, female entrepreneurs in impoverished communities are assisted.
Market Access: Seda's approach to assisting entrepreneurs in struggling communities involves a multifaceted strategy to ensure they have the best possible chance of accessing markets successfully. One key aspect of this strategy is providing entrepreneurs with up-to-date information on market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging opportunities. This information equips them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their businesses and adapt to changing market conditions.
Moreover, Seda goes beyond just providing information by actively facilitating access to market channels. This includes helping entrepreneurs establish relationships with buyers, distributors, and other key players in the market. Seda's network of contacts and partnerships allows them to open doors for entrepreneurs that may have otherwise been closed, giving them access to a wider range of potential customers and markets.
Another crucial element of Seda's approach is supporting entrepreneurs in building their brands and marketing their products effectively. This includes providing guidance on branding, packaging, and promotion, as well as helping entrepreneurs develop marketing strategies that resonate with their target audiences. By doing so, Seda helps entrepreneurs stand out in crowded markets and increase their chances of success.
Technology and Innovation Support: Seda supports entrepreneurs in struggling communities to adopt technology and innovate in their businesses through training, mentoring, and access to resources. By focusing on these key areas, Seda aims to empower entrepreneurs with the skills and tools they need to thrive in today's competitive business landscape. This support not only helps individual businesses succeed but also contributes to the overall economic growth and development of these communities.
Overall, Seda plays a crucial role in supporting struggling communities in South Africa by promoting entrepreneurship, fostering business growth, and creating economic opportunities.
2. The incorporation of sefa and the Co-operatives Bank Development Agency (CBDA) into the Seda is underway. It will result in the merged entity Small Enterprise Development and Finance agency – SEDFA which will provide both financial and non-financial support as well as initiatives to support the development of a broader SMME / Co-operative ecosystem. The main rationale for a new entity is to create a single integrated institution that can facilitate access to the full spectrum of financial and non-financial support needed by SMMEs across their lifecycles, accessible in all parts of the country. It will aim to leverage the financial and non-financial resources of all eco-system partners and also aim to develop new eco-system partner organisations and businesses. (e.g., emerging Township network organisations etc.). This will improve efficiency, develop products that are responsive and ensure a higher impact of the government programmes on the SMME ecosystem.
Furthermore, sefa has positively impacted the small business sector in the South African economy over the years. Since its inception in 2012 to 31 March 2023, sefa disbursed R14.5 billion into the South African economy enabling access to finance to over 629 000 SMMEs, who in turn facilitated over 830 000 jobs over this period.
sefa serves as the lender of last resort for SMMEs that generally cannot get funding from other financiers in the economy, and this also means the organisation most often than not spends considerable amount of time processing these applications, which at times are not complete in terms of all information required (compliance and others). Through the efforts of the organisation, sefa has enabled businesses to develop and grow. sefa continues to enable access to finance to small business and these businesses contribute both income (in the form of taxes) and jobs to the South African economy.
Through its insurance business, Khula Credit Guarantee, (KCG), sefa partners with financial and non-financial institutions that extend credit to small businesses and KCG provides credit cover in case these businesses default on their loan repayments. KCG also partners with Corporates who through their ESD programmes support small businesses and KCG provides credit cover in case these small businesses default on their agreements.
Seda supports entrepreneurs and SMMEs with non-financial assistance. Seda does not fund small businesses with capital or cash but offers grant funding through its TTA Programme as well as the Co-operative Development Support Programme. Both these Programmes have been successfully implemented and there is a need for additional funding as the demand far outweighs the supply. The backlog within the system TTA has been cleared and there are no outstanding applications from previous years.
Seda, through its Executive Committee, makes every effort to streamline processes, improve resource allocation, and enhance capacity within the Organisation so that it could help address these challenges and support the timely funding of credible applicants, thereby facilitating the development of small businesses.
30 April 2024 - NW503
Sonti, Ms NP to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Whether, considering the growing number of unemployed young graduates, including the disturbing development relating to unemployed young medical practitioners, she and/or her Office has monitoring mechanisms in place through which she engages with the Minister of Health, to resolve the problem of unemployed young medical practitioners that will alleviate unemployment among graduates; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The employment of young graduates, particularly medical practitioners is a competence of the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation and the Department of Health. A detailed reply to the question may be sourced from these departments as necessary.
30 April 2024 - NW588
Alexander, Ms W to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
With reference to her reply to question 93 on 9 March 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:
I have been advised that:
(i) The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) procured three (3) vehicles since 08 May 2019 for the Minister of Small Business Development. From the three (3) procured, one (1) was procured in 2021 and then transferred to the Department of Communication and Digital Technologies (DCDT) as per agreement between the incoming and outgoing Ministers to DCDT. Two (2) vehicles were procured in 2023 for use in Cape Town and Pretoria.
The following are the details of the three (3) vehicles:
The details of the one (1) vehicle procured in 2021 and transferred to the DCDT:
(a) Make: Audi
(b) Model: Q5 40 TDI
(c) Year of manufacture: 2021
(d) Price: R726 469.25
(e) Purchase date: December 2021
The details of the two (2) vehicles procured in 2023:
(a) Make: Audi
(b) Model: Q5 40 TDI
(c) Year of manufacture: 2023
(d) Price: R 790 000.00 x 2= (R 1 580 000.00)
(e) Purchase date: June 2023
(ii) No vehicles were purchased for the Deputy Minister of Small Business Development.
30 April 2024 - NW440
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
What monitoring steps will be taken by her Office regarding the challenges raised in the Commission for Gender Equality Report on Learner Pregnancy-Policy Interplay, which focuses on the (a) school dropout of adolescent girls during pregnancy and (b) postpartum period in selected provinces in 2023?
Reply:
The incidence of teenage pregnancy as it affects the dropout of adolescent girls from school is a competence of the Departments of Basic Education, Health, Social Development, and the South African Police Service as applicable. In its 2023 report titled “Learner pregnancy-policy interplay: School dropout of adolescent girls during pregnancy and in the postpartum period in selected South African provinces”, the The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) recommends that these departments spearhead school-based and community programmes aimed at eliminating the incidence of teenage pregnancy in schools. Consequently, a comprehensive reply may be obtained from these relevant departments.
Nevertheless, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has coordinated relevant government departments and initiated a process to develop a draft integrated program of action on the prevention and elimination of teenage pregnancy as a part of the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on Gender Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF). This process is initiated to address the fragmented nature of the current interventions toward an all-of-society preventative approach as we battle to end the scourge of teenage pregnancy.
30 April 2024 - NW779
Whitfield, Mr AG to ask the Minister of Police
(1) What total number of staff are actually employed versus the ideal number that should be employed at each 10111 call centre in each province in the period 1 March 2023 to 1 March 2024. (2) what total number of dropped calls have been recorded in respect of each call centre in each province (a) in the past five financial years and (b) from 1 March 2023 to 1 March 2024.
Reply:
Find here: Reply
30 April 2024 - NW8
Mulder, Dr CP to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1) What total legal costs were incurred for the proceedings instituted by the Government against the State of Israel on 29 December 2023 before the International Court of Justice; (2) whether any third parties sponsored South Africa’s application, be it financially and/or otherwise; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) what was the (a) size of the South African legal team, including foreign attorneys and (b) total number of (i) Members of Parliament and (ii) State officials who were invited by his department to attend the proceedings; (4) what was the total (a) travel and (b) accommodation costs incurred by his department for all (i) legal personnel, (ii) politicians and (iii) State officials; (5) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1.Three government Departments namely, the Presidency, International Relations and Cooperation and Justice and Constitutional Development had legal representation for the ICJ case argued on 11 and 12 January 2024.
I am only able to respond with regard to the Counsel and costs falling under the Department I am responsible for.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development had 1 senior and 2 junior counsel who handled the matter on a pro bono basis,
(2) I am not aware of any third parties’ sponsorship.
(3)
(a) There were three legal practitioners / counsel who were on brief by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (the Department).
(b) I attended the proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 11 and 12 January 2024 together with three officials.
(4) The information is as follows: -
(a) The costs in respect of travel for:
- Legal team is R277 083.
- Minister is R443 442.
- State Officials is R1025 359, (this includes the VIP Protector who is employed by SAPS, so considered an official)
(b) The total costs for accommodation:
- Legal team is R73 420.
- Minister is R43 999.
- State Officials is R58 115. (this includes the VIP Protector who is employed by SAPS, so considered an official)
c) Subsistence Allowance for Minister & Officials
- R34 080,42
(5) Yes. South Africa is extremely proud that we took this matter to the ICJ. As Government, South Africa could not sit idly and watch the killing of innocent people in Gaza. South Africa stepped up at the time when thousands of lives, mainly vulnerable women and children, were killed and our efforts drew the world's attention that a genocide is happening in Gaza. Several other countries joined in the condemnation of the genocide and pledged support and solidarity with South Africa for its stance against genocide. This is evidenced by the fact that the ICJ held, by fifteen votes to two, that the State of Israel must, in accordance with its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts within the scope of Article II of this Convention. Moreover on 26 January 2024, the court ruled that “the present perilous situation demands immediate and effective implementation of those measures”, in response to the Article 75 application of the ICJ, that Israel is bound by the provisional measures order.
30 April 2024 - NW717
Khakhau, Ms KL to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
Whether he will furnish Ms K L Khakhau with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by his department to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
The department do not have any events planned towards celebration of 30 years of democracy
30 April 2024 - NW736
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
Whether his department has made land available to any municipality, provincial government and/or social housing company to address housing backlogs in the past three financial years; if not, why not; if so, what are the details of the land parcels?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
The Department is supporting the housing sector; the Department of Human Settlements (DHS), Housing Development Agency (HDA) and Municipalities by releasing state-owned properties identified as suitable and available for human settlement development.
The Cabinet Memorandum No. 03 of 2019 (Cab Memo) approved the release of such properties to the HDA, to enable the Agency to work with Municipalities and relevant stakeholders to provide among others, project management and development assistance for human settlements as well as ensure that the land is utilised for purposes released for. The land parcels release in the last 3 financial years are outlined on table 1 to table 3 below:
Table 1. Land Parcels processed in 2020/2021.
Province |
Local Municipality |
No. of land parcels |
Extent (Hectares) |
Free State |
Letsemeng |
1 |
40 |
Western Cape |
Stellenbosch |
1 |
6,9 |
City of Cape Town |
2 |
29,3 |
|
Drakenstein |
2 |
3,54 |
|
KwaZulu-Natal |
eMadlangeni |
2 |
417 |
eThekwini |
1 |
2,15 |
|
Gauteng |
Tshwane |
1 |
112 |
Rand West |
1 |
453 |
|
Ekurhuleni |
1 |
21 |
|
Northern Cape |
Kgatelopele |
5 |
144 |
Ga-Segonyana |
1 |
125 |
|
Phokwane |
1 |
0,95 |
|
North West |
Mahikeng |
1 |
329 |
Madibeng |
2 |
400 |
|
Mpumalanga |
Dr JS. Moroka |
1 |
69 |
Eastern Cape |
Kou-Kamma |
3 |
20,7 |
Gariep |
1 |
1,3 |
|
TOTAL |
27 |
2 174,08 |
Table 2. Land Parcels processed in 2021/2022.
Province |
Local Municipality |
No. of land parcels |
Extent (Hectares) |
Free State |
Kopanong |
1 |
8 |
Western Cape |
Stellenbosch |
1 |
17,70 |
Theewaterskloof |
1 |
70,9020 |
|
Northern Cape |
Kgatelopele |
16 |
85,62 |
Mpumalanga |
Emalahleni |
2 |
2,11 |
Limpopo |
Polokwane |
3 |
0,48 |
Eastern Cape |
Buffalo City |
4 |
0,3 |
TOTAL |
28 |
185,1120 |
Table 3. Land Parcels processed in 2022/2023.
Province |
Municipality |
No. of Land Parcels |
Extent (Hectares) |
Western Cape |
Saldanha Bay |
1 |
39 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality |
5 |
1,56 |
Msunduzi Local Municipality |
4 |
2,8 |
|
Endumeni |
3 |
0,6 |
|
TOTAL |
13 |
43,36 |
It is also worth mentioning that Power of Attorneys (POAs) to initiate planning development planning processes have been issued to the Housing Development Agency.
30 April 2024 - NW724
Chetty, Mr M to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Whether she will furnish Mr M Chetty with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by her Office to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
None.
30 April 2024 - NW758
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
What (a) are the reasons that the Kopanong Precinct Project in Gauteng, which was launched in 2003 has still not been finalised, (b) role has he played in the implementation of the specified project and (c) steps of intervention have been put in place to ensure that the project is implemented to completion?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure was not involved in the implementation of the Kopanong Precinct Project in Gauteng. Our sister department, Department of Infrastructure Development will be best suited to respond to this question.
30 April 2024 - NW451
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)Whether new generators and/or backup power systems have been purchased and installed since 1 January 2023 at the official Ministerial homes; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the details of the (a) total number purchased, (b) purchase price of each generator and/or backup power system and (c) Minister and/or Deputy Minister who has been allocated a generator and/or backup power system for his/her benefit; (2) Whether there are plans to purchase additional generators and/or backup power system for official Ministerial homes; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) Whether the generators and/or backup power systems have been maintained during the course of the specified period; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) What is the total amount that has been spent on diesel to run the generators in the specified period to date, including a breakdown of the (a) cost per litre and (b) total cost in each month?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
(1)
(a) Three(3) generators were purchased for the replacement of existing non-functional generators.
(b) The purchase the three generators amounts to R387 751.25, R349 998.93 and R 241 674.00, respectively.
(c) One (1) Minister and two (2) Deputy Ministers were been allocated a generators.
(2) There are no plans to purchase additional generators, as all existing generators are in good working condition.
(3) The scope of works related to the maintenance of the generators, is attached as Annexure A.
(4) The detail cost with the total amount spent on diesel, is attached as Annexure B.
30 April 2024 - NW573
Bergman, Mr D to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
Whether, he has found any investigation that is currently or was previously undertaken by the Office of the Public Protector to determine the legality of the decision to appoint a staff member of his department as an accounting officer to oversee administration at the National Gambling Board; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the investigation?
Reply:
The Department informs me that a notice was received from the Office of the Public Protector (“the PP”) in December 2020 and an extensive response relating to the notice was submitted. It advises further that no further substantive communications on this issue were received from the PP. It was assumed therefore that the PP concluded that no investigation or further investigation herein was merited.
-END-
30 April 2024 - NW514
Opperman, Ms G to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
(1) Whether her Office monitors the availability and accessibility of shelters for women who are victims of gender-based violence; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (2) whether her Office intends to intervene to ensure that the Northern Cape Government establishes a shelter in Namaqualand as a matter of urgency, since survivors of gender-based violence currently must travel more than six hours to the nearest shelter; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The Department produced a monitoring and evaluation framework for the national strategic plan on gender based violence & femicide. The role of the department of Public Works & Infrastructure (DPWI) is to make available unutilised public buildings to be utilised as shelters or temporary housing arrangements for victims/survivors of GBVF.
The Department linked DPWI with the Department of Social Development (DSD) in ensuring that the identified buildings are renovated, NPOs are linked to these shelters and that they are funded.
2. The Department of Women Youth & Persons with Disabilities will pursue discussions with DSD and DPWI regarding the state of shelters in Namaqualand.
30 April 2024 - NW814
Herron, Mr BN to ask the President of the Republic
(1)Whether he has considered the applications that were formally submitted to him by a certain organisation (name furnished) under the State Land Disposal Act, Act 48 of 1961, on 23 September 2023, on behalf of (a) communities living on an unsuitable wetland in Khayelitsha and (b) a community in Gugulethu; if not, by what date does he envisage the process of considering the applications will be completed; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; 2) how (a) does the Government intend to use its proposed serviced sites programme to promote equitable land distribution in well-located areas to enhance socio-economic development for communities in need and (b) will the administration ensure the rapid release of land which is necessary for serviced sites; (3) what steps is the Government taking to ensure (a) compliance with the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, Act 19 of 2007, in the disposal of state land, (b) that land is not disposed of where it can be used for affordable housing and in particular to enable community development and empowerment and (c) that the principles of the specified Act are upheld in the disposal of state land, particularly in relation to community development and empowerment; (4) (a) what progress has been made in implementing the proposed framework law aimed at land reform, which was one of the recommendations in the report of the High Level Panel on the Assessment of Key Legislation and the Acceleration of Fundamental Change and (b) who is responsible for preparing the specified legislation?
Reply:
(1) The Presidency is not in receipt of the applications for land, referred to by the Honourable Member, that were ‘formally submitted’ to the President on 23 September 2023.
However, the Presidency did receive a memorandum in August 2023. On the basis of this memorandum, I have requested the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure and the Minister of Human Settlements to constitute a joint team to engage with the organisation in question.
(2) (a) The Department of Human Settlements’ programme of delivery of serviced sites aims to accommodate households, mainly residing in the informal settlements, whose income levels would enable them to gradually build on their own once they have access to land. The programme prioritises access to housing in well-located areas that are close to economic opportunities, social amenities and transport infrastructure.
A total of 186,750 serviced sites were delivered between 2019 and March 2024.
The serviced sites programme aims in the longer term to mitigate current challenges relating to unauthorised occupation of land, often accompanied with the mushrooming of informal settlements in the country.
(b) The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) releases state land identified as suitable for human settlement development to the Housing Development Agency (HDA). This is done through the issuing of Power of Attorney to the HDA, for commencement of township development processes and ultimate transfer to the beneficiaries.
(3) (a) In terms of the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, the DPWI consults with the affected user departments and stakeholders before any disposal is considered to confirm if they need the identified properties for their respective government functions. If the identified properties are still required for government purposes, the applicant is informed accordingly.
(b) The DPWI releases state land to support land redistribution, land restitution, human settlement development and for other socio-economic purposes. This includes availing suitable state land for the building of affordable houses for the benefit of the qualifying, historically disadvantaged and poor communities.
(b) State land disposals are subjected to due diligence, including feasibility studies, valuations, town planning, etc., to ensure that the best disposal option is undertaken to achieve socio-economic objectives.
(4) The proposal for a framework bill on land reform was aimed at operationalising equitable access to land, establishing guiding principles on redistribution, restitution and land tenure as well as land administration. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is dealing with these issues in the following manner:
- Land Redistribution: The Department has drafted the Land Acquisition and Redistribution Bill, which is currently undergoing consultations internally and with targeted stakeholders before the Bill is submitted to Cabinet to approve its publication for public comment.
- Land Restitution: There is already the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994 which was passed and is being implemented.
- Land Tenure: The DALRRD has drafted the Communal Land Bill, which specifically provides for secure land tenure as contemplated in section 25(6) of the Constitution. The draft Bill is currently undergoing consultations with targeted stakeholders before it is approved by Cabinet for publication for public comment.
- Land Administration: The Restitution of Land Rights Act and the two Bills referred to above provide for land administration in different but appropriate forms as dictated to by the context of each piece of legislation.
30 April 2024 - NW698
Alexander, Ms W to ask the Minister of Small Business Development
Whether she will furnish Mrs W R Alexander with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by her department to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?”
Reply:
I have been advised that:
a) No Departmental (across the Department of Small Business Development [DSBD], the Small Enterprise Development Agency [Seda] and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency [sefa]) events have been planned for the 30-year celebrations.
b) Not applicable.
30 April 2024 - NW635
Bodlani, Ms T to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
In light of the fact that the court overturned his decision to remove the Board of Directors of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), what steps has he taken to ensure that the poor functioning of the SITA is addressed, so that the interests of South Africans who are struggling to access government services due to the poor functioning of the SITA are prioritised?
Reply:
The Minister has lodged an appeal against the decision of the court. The Department awaits judgment on the matter.
Meanwhile, the SITA has completed its business model review with the view to aligning the business strategy and operations to client departments and ultimately the needs of the citizens. The Minister has also appointed the Ministerial Task Team (MTT) which is supporting the Agency in dealing with the procurement backlog which has hampered the ability of the client departments from delivering their services effectively. The MTT has already facilitated the capacitation of the organisation and has ensured the improvement of the procurement process efficiencies.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW701
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
Whether he will furnish Mr L J Basson with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by his department to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) An event celebrating 30 years of the ICT industry in South Africa was held on 26 April 2024 in Sandton.
- The total cost of the event was R518 458,71. Digital Council Africa sponsored R307 500.00. The total cost incurred by the DCDT was R210 958,71.
- The sponsorship covered the cost of (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire. (dd) The Department spent R5337,11 on transport costs for officials who have been part of the project team. (ee) no cost incurred on accommodation.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW761
Pambo, Mr V to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What is the latest breakdown of the number of students who (a) owe university fees and (b) cannot graduate and/or receive their certificates because they owe university fees?
Reply:
INSTITUTION |
Number of students who owe university fees |
Number of students who Cannot graduate and/or receive their certificates because they owe university fees |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Stellenbosch University (SU) |
9 615 students as at Dec 2023 |
522 students with fees owing did not receive their graduation certificates at the Dec 2023 graduation ceremony. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) |
63829 |
25534 students |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) |
35819 Registered students owe the university fees 38 809 Non-registered students owe the university fees |
We are in the process of checking the graduation lists. If we look at the outstanding balances of graduates at year end it amounts to 5728 students who owe the university and will not receive their certificates. The number of students who will not receive their certificates will decrease as we identify subsequent payments received in 2024. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Western Cape (UWC) |
At UWC, 307 students completed with 2023 debt, total debt outstanding is R 19 720 786. 976 students completed with prior years debt, total amount outstanding is R 25 535 509 |
The two data sets only refer to April 2023 and April 2024 graduation ceremonies. UWC has a symbolic graduation process whereby if students complete an acknowledgement of debt they are allowed to attend graduation. Certificates are not released if the completed student has an outstanding balance relating to the completed program, however they do receive a letter of completion. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Nelson Mandela University (NMU) |
The total number of students owing the university as at 31 March 2024 are 40839 |
Students who cannot receive their certificates are 5766 [Please note: Our students can still graduate, all students receive letters of completion whist the certificates are withheld from those students who have student debt, furthermore, results are shared with potential employers if required.] |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
North-West University (NWU) |
|
NWU TOTAL: 593. Please note that we are currently occupied with the autumn graduation ceremonies, and the number of students unable to receive their certificates due to outstanding debt to the institution is expected to increase. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Venda (UNIVEN) |
University of Venda debtors book has more than 21896 students that owe the university. Total debt owed is as at 31 December 2023 is R623 million. |
All eligible students will graduate, and the number is 2,157. Of the 2,157 graduands, 1,402 (65%) will receive their certificates as their accounts have been fully settled, or they are NSFAS beneficiaries. The 546 NSFAS beneficiaries will receive their certificates on the strength of expected payment from NSFAS. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Pretoria (UP) |
|
The UP has 1 327 degrees in safe keeping, the debt amounts to R 47 535 911.21 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Cape Town (UCT) |
|
The 332 students will not graduate or receive certificates while owing but will get a letter of completion. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Free State (UFS) |
At 4 April 2024, 39 974 students owe the University of the Free State fees amounting to R850 594 791. This include tuition and other fees payable relating to prior years, as well as 2024. |
887 students. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) |
Included in the balances above are amounts owed by NSFAS where the close out process has not been finalised. |
As at 12 April 2024 Wits has a total of 4557 students that are unable to graduate and receive a graduation certificate with a total debt value of R298 744 877.61. Included in this number are students who were funded by NSFAS at some point in their academic career, and who owe funds in their personal capacity. The number of Students in this category are 368 students with a total debt value of R29 155 637.64. This covers the academic years 2017 to 2023. In conclusion, The University has a principle and practice to allow the students who are solely NSFAS funded to graduate, which is a practice that has been done in good faith with an understanding that NSFAS will settle the debt upon the finalisation of the respective close-out reports. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Zululand (UNIZULU) |
Number of students owing fees = 22 980 |
All students at UNIZULU who are eligible to graduate are able to graduate and walk over the stage. Those that owe will receive a letter instead of their certificate. The letter confirms their graduation and invites prospective employers to confirm this directly with the University. The number of students at the end of 2023 that were in this position were 5 967 in total. Some 3 223 students will graduate in 2024 and most of them would have paid up fees as most of them would have been NSFAS funded. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) |
These figures are as at 31 Dec 2023, |
SMU is slightly lenient, it allows students to graduate even if they have outstanding balances. A total number of 3870 is still withheld. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Walter Sisulu University (WSU) |
|
Students can graduate but will not receive certificate. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Johannesburg (UJ) |
As of December 2023, the university had a total of 33 333 students with outstanding debt. The number is made up of the following group of students: Registered in 2023 – 14 537. Not registered as of 2023 – 18 796. The number of students who were registered in 2023 and owed the university, excludes the NSFAS and Bursary-funded students. |
Below is the breakdown of students who graduated but owed the university fees: 2021 Graduates – 2 688. 2022 Graduates – 2 583. 2023 Graduates – 2 602. Students are invited to the graduation ceremonies and get their transcript showing that they have completed the qualification. The certificate is retained until the outstanding fees are settled. UJ provide confirmation of completed studies to prospective employees upon request, thereby allowing students to enter employment. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Mpumalanga (UMP) |
Owe university fees=4397 (as at 17 April 2024) |
Cannot graduate and/or receive their certificates because they owe university fees= 405 Please be reminded that our students will graduate but will not receive certificates. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
University of Kwa-Zulu Natal (UKZN) |
Of the students who completed their qualification in 2023, there are ±4,760 students who currently owe the University fees for 2023 and prior. |
Every graduate is allowed to graduate and is entitled to an official academic record/transcript on application and an official letter confirming ‘Degree Complete’, again on application and payment of the a fee. On settlement of fees outstanding and the requisite ‘fee clearance’, a graduate can formally request to be issued with their withheld degree/diploma certificate(s). |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
DUT |
|
NB: All students owing fees at DUT are allowed to graduate upon receipt of completion letters which state compliance with requirements of the qualification. However, certificates are not issued to this cohort until fees have been settled. Prospective employers may contact the university to verify completion of qualifications. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) |
5213 students owe the University a total of R151 733 467.11, where the individual amounts exceed R1000.00. |
Sol Plaatje University does not withhold qualification/graduation certificates where graduates have outstanding fees. |
The following universities are yet to respond to the PQ and follow ups are being made:
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- University of South Africa (UNISA).
30 April 2024 - NW517
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
(1) What are the relevant details of the steps her Office will be taking to monitor that government departments reach the 2% target of employing persons with disabilities in the Public Service; (2) whether she has found that the 2% target is sufficient, given that over 6% of persons in the Republic are classified as having a disability; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The monitoring that the DWYPD undertakes is in line with the 5-year policy priorities as defined in the MTSF 2019/2024 which is based on the National Development Plan and the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The DWYPD recognised that the 2% minimum employment equity target was not sufficient especially as the 2% target was in place for the past 24 years and the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provides that a minimum employment equity target of 7% of persons with disabilities must be reached by 2030. It is anticipated that presenting the annual progress report on implementation on the WPRPD to Cabinet will serve as a means to persuade departments to demonstrate their progress made towards employing persons with disabilities in the public service.
The DWYPD processed a cabinet Memorandum requesting Cabinet to increase the employment equity target of persons with disabilities from a minimum employment equity target of 2% to a minimum employment equity target of 3% for the 2024-2025 financial year and to increase same by 1% each year until the minimum employment equity target of 7% is reached by 2030. Cabinet approved the request made by the DWYPD in its cabinet memorandum on 1 November 2023.
Affirming the cabinet decision, the President highlighted that all efforts must be made to ensure that persons with disabilities are given equal and equitable employment opportunities even if it requires persons with disabilities being head hunted for posts if they meet the requirements without having to advertise same. Further, persons with disabilities do not have to have experience when applying for entry level positions.
The DWYPD has communicated the cabinet decision to the Department of Public Service and Administration to develop guidelines and strategies which will be communicated with all government departments and entities to assist them to meet the 3% minimum employment equity target for persons with disabilities in the 2024-2025 financial year. The DWYPD has also written to all government departments informing them of the cabinet decision further consultative workshops were held with them to highlight interventions required and is holding one on one meetings with departments to assist them with strategies that they could undertake to assist with reaching the 3% minimum employment equity target as requested. Naturally if departments reach higher than 3% this will be most welcome and it will demonstrate that we are on our way towards achieving the 7% employment equity target for persons with disabilities by 2030.
30 April 2024 - NW118
Malatsi, Mr MS to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(a) What is the breakdown of the costs for each line item of the Republic’s litigation in the South Africa vs Israel case at the International Court of Justice and (b) from which departmental budgets were the funds sourced?
Reply:
(a) Three government Departments namely, the Presidency, International Relations and Cooperation and Justice and Constitutional Development had legal representation for the ICJ case argued on 11 and 12 January 2024.
I am only able to respond with regard to the Counsel and costs falling under the Department I am responsible for.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development briefed three legal practitioners / counsel - a senior and 2 juniors who acted on a pro bono basis for the application and hearing on 11 and 12 January 2024.
The costs in respect of travel for:
- Legal team is R277 083.
- Minister is R443 442.
- State Officials is R1025 359, (this includes the VIP Protector who is employed by SAPS, so considered an official)
The total costs for accommodation:
- Legal team is R73 420.
- Minister is R43 999.
- State Officials is R58 115. (this includes the VIP Protector who is employed by SAPS, so considered an official)
Subsistence Allowance for Minister & Officials
- R34 080,42
(b) The above funds were sourced from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
30 April 2024 - NW591
Basson, Mr LJ to ask the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies
With reference to her reply to question 80 on 21 March 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:
I was informed by the Department as follows:
(i) Minister:
(a) Make : NA
(b) Model : NA
(c) Year of manufacturer : NA
(d) Cost : NA
(e) Purchase date : NA
(ii) Former Minister:
(a) Make : NA
(b) Model : NA
(c) Year of manufacturer : NA
(d) Cost : NA
(e) Purchase date : NA
(iii) Deputy Minister:
(a) Make : NA
(b) Model : NA
(c) Year of manufacturer : NA
(d) Cost : NA
(e) Purchase date : NA
(iv) Former Deputy Minister: Ms Pinky Kekana
(a) Make : BMW
(b) Model : Sedan 12 DC, G30, 520 D
(c) Year of manufacturer : 2021
(d) Cost : R 741 044, 54
(e) Purchase date : 18/11/2021
The vehicle was procured by the department as a transfer from the Minister’s tenure as the Minister of Small Business Development. The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) did not procure a new vehicle from a new supplier when she arrived.
I thank you.
30 April 2024 - NW511
Makata, Ms T Z to ask the Minister in The Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
What initiatives has her Office launched that focus on the socialisation of men to promote gender equity and a masculinity which is not oppressive to women and the girl child in addressing gender-based violence and femicide?
Reply:
(a) The Heads of State and Government of the Member States of the African Union, convened on the 27-28 November 2023 in Pretoria, South Africa, under the leadership of His Excellency Mr Azali Assoumani, President of the Republic of the Comoros and 2023 African Union Chairperson and H.E Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa and African Union Circle of champions lead to end violence against Women and Girls, for the third meeting of the African Heads of State and Government on Positive Masculinity to end violence against Women and Girls in Africa.
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities coordinated the departments across all spheres of government, Civil Society Organisations, business sector, traditional leaders –national and provincial, male and female kings and chiefs, Faith Based Organisations, private sector and all participating African countries.
Pre-consultation sessions were held with all the sectors to influence the program, but also to mobilize and garner support in designing programmes aimed addressing the scourge, post the conference. In the end, the heads of state emerged with an outcome document, to be implemented and monitored by ALL.
(b) The Department also leads the coordination of the 16 Days of activism for no violence against women and children. It is during this period that we heighten awareness, and educate society on services available and how to access those.
(c) The Department partnered with the taxi industry and the department of Transport by training the taxi marshals, taxi drivers and taxi owners on the National Strategic Plan on GBVF and what constitutes GBVF.
30 April 2024 - NW454
Ismail, Ms H to ask the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure
(1)(a) What are the purposes for which the halls at the different parliamentary villages are hired, (b) who is allowed to hire the specified halls and (c) what is the total income generated from hiring the halls; (2) whether the halls are hired to non government and/or departmental entities; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, how are screening checks implemented to ensure the safety of residents at the different parliamentary villages?
Reply:
The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure:
1. (a) The halls in different Parliamentary villages are hired for person purpose of the hiring residence,such as birthday parties etc.
(b) the halls are strictly hired for use of residences of the different Parliamentary villages, and only under exceptional circumstances other users are permitted, and such permission is can be granted by the chairperson of the parliamentary village.
(c) the total income generated from hiring the halls in the last financial year is R1300
2. The halls are for the use of residents, only under exceptional circumstances, and through the permission of the chairperson that hiring to non-residents is considered. To ensure safety of residents, non-residents users must provide a guest list to the respective parks office prior to the date of the event, so that there is a measure of control of who is in the Parliamentary village during the vent. The attendees are checked by police against the list provided, at the front gate on the day of the event.