Questions and Replies
19 June 2023 - NW1858
Horn, Mr W to ask the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs
What are the costs to date to her department related to the national intervention into the administration of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, with reference to national government departments and the specified municipality?
Reply:
The total costs to date incurred by the Department in relation to the national intervention into the administration of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality are R 2, 006 283, 13.
End.
19 June 2023 - NW1730
Buthelezi, Ms SA to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(a)Whether, noting that the 2024 elections are looming, she intends to hand over title deeds as she did in August 2021 shortly before the Local Government Elections were held; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (b) whether any similar projects were completed between the last elections and the upcoming elections during the so-call off-elections seasons, if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) The Title Restoration Project is an ongoing project of the government that aims to restore ownership to beneficiaries of state-subsidised houses, that have since 2016 consistently been planned and budgeted for, in the annual provincial business plans.
b) It is the department’s policy to hand over title deeds to beneficiaries as soon as possible to avoid loss or damage. The issuing of title deeds by political heads depends on their priorities and availability.
The Minister of Human Settlements will thus continue to issue title deeds to beneficiaries as part of the ongoing work of government, depending on her availability and priorities.
19 June 2023 - NW1688
Bagraim, Mr M to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Whether she will furnish Mr M Bagraim with a comprehensive breakdown of the procurement allocation of (a) her department and (b) every entity reporting to her in terms of the percentages allocated to (i) small-, medium- and micro-enterprises, (ii) cooperatives, (iii) township enterprises and (iv) rural enterprises with a view to evaluating the effectiveness of the set-aside policy of the Government in fostering an inclusive and diverse economic landscape (details furnished) in the (aa) 2021-22 financial year and (bb) since 1 April 2023?
Reply:
(a),(b)(i),(ii),(iii),(iv)(aa),(bb) Please refer to the table below.
(i) SMME |
(ii) Cooperative |
(iii) Township Enterprises |
(iv) Rural Enterprises |
(a) Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 Financial Year (FY) |
|||
0% The Department did not set procurement allocations (targets). |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: The 2017 Preferential Procurement Regulations (including Regulation 4: prequalification criteria/ set-aside) were successfully challenged in court and replaced by the Preferential Procurement Regulation 2022 which is currently in force. Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable. In view of the above, since April 2023 the Department does not apply the pre-qualification criteria/set-aside in line with the 2022 Regulations issued by National Treasury. |
|||
(i) SMME |
(ii) Cooperative |
(iii) Township Enterprises |
(iv) Rural Enterprises |
(b) Deeds Registration Trading Account |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
0% The entity did not set procurement allocations (targets). |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: The 2017 Preferential Procurement Regulations (including Regulation 4: prequalification criteria/ set-aside) were successfully challenged in court and replaced by the Preferential Procurement Regulation 2022 which is currently in force. Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable. In view of the above, since April 2023 the Department does not apply the pre-qualification criteria/set-aside in line with the 2022 Regulations issued by National Treasury. |
|||
(b) Commission on Restitution of Land Rights |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
89% |
0% |
1.27% |
76% |
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
70.69% |
0% |
0% |
1.21% |
(b) Office of the Valuer General |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
84.77% |
0% |
0% |
0% |
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
16.5% |
0% |
0% |
0% |
(b) Ingonyama Trust Board (ITB) |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
0% ITB did not set procurement allocation targets. |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: The 2017 Preferential Procurement Regulations (including Regulation 4: prequalification criteria/ set-aside) were successfully challenged in court and replaced by the Preferential Procurement Regulation 2022 which is currently in force. Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable. In view of the above, since April 2023 the Department does not apply the pre-qualification criteria/set-aside in line with the 2022 Regulations issued by National Treasury. |
|||
(b) National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
0% NAMC did not set procurement allocation (targets). |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: The 2017 Preferential Procurement Regulations (including Regulation 4: prequalification criteria/ set-aside) were successfully challenged in court and replaced by the Preferential Procurement Regulation 2022 which is currently in force. Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable. In view of the above, since April 2023 the Department does not apply the pre-qualification criteria/set-aside in line with the 2022 Regulations issued by National Treasury. |
|||
(b) Agricultural Research Council (ARC) |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
0%: ARC did not set procurement allocation targets. |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: The new Preferential Procurement Regulations 2022 that came into effect from 16 January 2023 compels government institutions to evaluate bids based on specific Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP) objectives. Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable. |
|||
(b) Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) |
|||
(aa) 2021/22 FY |
|||
30% |
0% |
0% |
0% |
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
20% |
0% |
0% |
0% |
(b) Onderstepoort Biological Product (OBP) |
|||
(aa) 2022/23 FY |
|||
OBP currently only tracks 2 parameters with respect to procurement and based on the BBBEE Framework, i.e., (i) Black owned companies; and (ii) woman owned companies. OBP only approved the enterprise supplier development policy in Quarter-4 of 2022/2023. For the financial year 2022/2023, 45% Black owned businesses and 15% women owned businesses.” |
|||
(bb) Since 1 April 2023 |
|||
0%: Effective 16 January 2022 Regulation 4 (Pre-qualification criteria) of the Preferential Procurement Regulations 2017 is no longer applicable and was replaced by the Preferential Procurement Regulation 2022 which is currently in force. In view of the above, since April 2023 the OBP does not apply the pre-qualification criteria/set-aside in line with the 2022 Regulations issued by National Treasury. |
19 June 2023 - NW1736
Zondo, Mr S S to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
Since electric geysers are usually the highest electricity-consuming appliances in homes accounting to 30% to 40% of electricity used, what are the full details of the (a) roll-out of solar geysers to date, (b) feedback on their effectiveness of the specified geysers to date and (c) (i) plans and (ii) time frames of the roll-out of solar geysers going forward?NW1979
Reply:
a) The provision and roll-out of solar geysers is undertaken by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and the National Department of Human Settlements (NDHS) is collaborating with the DMRE in this regard.
To respond to the rising cost of living and energy poverty, I have announced that subsidised houses will be provided with solar panels in all new housing projects at 500W per housing unit. This is effective from the 1st of April 2023. At 500W, this home solar system is envisaged to cover lighting and provide energy to basic home appliances such as radio, television, Wi-Fi and refrigerator. Through this intervention, it is expected that the subsidised home solar system will contribute to the reduction of the total cost of electricity-consuming appliances in homes.
b) The NDHS has not rolled out any solar geysers, therefore it cannot provide feedback on the effectiveness thereof.
c) (i) The NDHS has held discussions with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) which are envisaged to culminate into a collaboration that will be expressed in a Memorandum of Agreement, for the installation of 6000 solar geysers in the Eastern Cape province.
c) (ii) The time frames for the roll-out of the solar geysers is expected to take place within the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years and will be confirmed in the Memorandum of Agreement between the two Departments.
19 June 2023 - NW1760
Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What (a) total number of transactions were approved by the Land and Agricultural Development Bank of South Africa in each (i) province and (ii) district for the blended finance programme in the past three financial years and (b) commodities are being approved and at what costs for each transaction?
Reply:
The Black Producers Commercialisation Programme (BPCP) pilot phase was launched in November 2018. The programme was suspended by April 2019 to undertake a review and assessment of the model. No approvals were recorded during the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 financial years. The Blended Finance Scheme (BFS) was re-launched in October 2022.
(a)(i),(ii),(b) 2022-2023 financial year - implementation period: November 2022 to 31 March 2023
Client Name |
Province |
Districts |
Commodities |
Number of Client Approvals |
Total Approvals (Loan and Grant) |
Sefale Letsitsa |
Free State |
Lejweleputswa |
Grains and Livestock |
1 |
R7 130 400 |
Ntethe Farming CC |
Thabo Mofutsanyana |
Grains, Beans and Livestock |
1 |
R19 998 307 |
|
Mandla Simon Mahlangu |
Gauteng |
Tshwane |
Grains and Livestock |
3 |
R1 402 300 |
Simphiwe Gift Mashiyana |
R467 408 |
||||
Sen-thaba Agriculture and Projects (Pty) Ltd |
R1 340 208 |
||||
Shakazi Farming |
KwaZulu- Natal |
uMgungundlovu |
Sugarcane |
2 |
R5 150 000 |
Kalajan Investments (Pty) Ltd |
iLembe |
R8 923 920 |
|||
Lemo David Chaba |
Limpopo |
Capricorn |
Livestock |
2 |
R784 683 |
Motitoane Mabena |
Waterberg |
R203 850 |
|||
Avoxeni Farms CC |
Mpumalanga |
Gert Sibande |
Grains and Livestock |
1 |
R5 325 420 |
Sibusisiwe Sugar Estate (Pty) Ltd |
Ehlanzeni |
Sugarcane |
1 |
R39 806 692 |
|
Baleti Estate (Pty) Ltd |
Nuts and Avocados |
1 |
R26 261 121 |
||
Andre Smith |
Northern Cape |
ZF Mgcawu |
Livestock
|
8 |
R415 571 |
Coenraad Van Wyk |
R389 391 |
||||
Danie Farmer |
R406 168 |
||||
Fritz Du Plessis |
R10 141 591 |
||||
Jakob Bok |
R1 183 578 |
||||
Jannie J Van Der Westhuizen |
R13 226 906 |
||||
Myra Jo-Ann Bezuidenhout |
R3 274 070 |
||||
Smith Boerdery Trust |
R3 563 006 |
||||
BL Smith Boerdery CC |
Livestock Raisins Pecan nuts Lucerne |
2 |
R11 895 360 |
||
Wathita Abafazi in Farming (Pty) Ltd |
R12 627 166 |
||||
Eilerd Driving and Training Academy CC |
Frances Baard |
Livestock |
1 |
R8 959 595 |
|
Kalahari Lankgewacht Investments (Pty) Ltd |
Livestock and Pecan nuts |
1 |
R6 313 073 |
||
Andries Farmer |
Namakwa |
Livestock |
2 |
R3 839 002 |
|
Elsies Vlak (Pty) Ltd |
R1 169 238 |
||||
Samuel Ivan Visser |
Pixley Ka Seme |
Livestock |
1 |
R913 508 |
|
Dithabo Projects and Other (Pty) Ltd |
North West |
Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District |
Livestock |
2 |
R3 077 304 |
Loago Boerdery (Pty) Ltd |
R1 877 029 |
||||
Eben Hazer Boerdery (Pty) Ltd |
Western Cape |
Cape Winelands |
Table Grapes |
1 |
R55 361 600 |
Total Approvals and Disbursements (Loan and Grant) |
30 |
R255 427 466 |
Reporting period: 1 April 2023 to 15 May 2023
Client Name |
Province |
Districts |
Commodities |
Number of Client Approvals |
Total Approvals (Loan and Grant) |
Bokamoso Boatlegile Farming (Pty) Ltd |
Free State |
Mangaung |
Grains and Livestock |
1 |
R15 671 865 |
Sebolelo Miriam Khoabane |
Lejweleputswa |
Grains and Livestock |
1 |
R2 809 881 |
|
Setjhoka Farming (Pty) Ltd |
Gauteng |
Tshwane |
Grains and Livestock |
2 |
R1 402 008 |
Kholekile Marinkie Ntuli |
R519 208 |
||||
Simphiwe Gift Mashiyana |
0 |
R0 |
|||
Mirror Ball Investments 128 (Pty) Ltd |
Kwazulu Natal |
uThukela |
Vegetables |
1 |
R5 913 024 |
Kalajan Investments (Pty) Ltd |
iLembe |
Sugarcane |
0 |
R0 |
|
PJ Snyders |
Northern Cape |
ZF Mgcawu |
Livestock |
1 |
R1 031 882 |
PA Dorper Boerdery (Pty) Ltd |
Livestock Raisins Pecan nuts Lucerne |
1 |
R15 064 794 |
||
Myra Jo-Ann Bezuidenhout |
Livestock |
0 |
R0 |
||
Billy Rodney Kotze |
John Taolo Gaetsewe |
Livestock |
1 |
R9 248 565 |
|
Dithabo Projects and Other (Pty) Ltd |
North West |
Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati |
Livestock |
0 |
R0 |
Crispy Crop (Pty) Ltd |
Western Cape |
West Coast |
Vegetables |
1 |
R7 856 400 |
Total Approvals and Disbursements (Loan and Grant) |
9 |
R59 517 627 |
19 June 2023 - NW1824
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
What are the relevant details of funding provided by her department to private companies that are responsible for supporting emerging farmers with technical support for each commodity and in each province throughout the Republic in the past 10 financial years; (2) whether she will furnish Mr N P Masipa with a detailed report on the progress made through such support for each (a) farm, (b) commodity and (c) specified financial year; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. None. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development did not in the last 10 years [2013-2023], provide funding to private companies that were responsible for technical support to emerging farmers either in terms of the Recapitalisation and Development Programme (RADP) or the current Land Development Support (LDS) Programme. Currently, the Department has a partnership with commodity organisations registered with the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) and collects levies in accordance with Marketing of Agricultural Products Act, No. 47 of 1996.
2. No, since no funding support was provided to private companies as indicated above.
(a),(b)(c) Falls away.
19 June 2023 - NW1444
Yako, Ms Y to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether he has been able to verify reports that Mr Thabo Bester was able to move in and out of the Mangaung Correctional Centre way before his escape from the specified facility to conduct his private businesses; if not, is he investigating the specified claims; if so, has he identified the individuals responsible for the breach of correctional services operational procedures?
Reply:
The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services learned about these allegations through media reports and immediately instituted an investigation into the above matter through the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services. The National Commissioner then appointed investigators who are currently busy with all allegations related to inmate Thabo Bester and his escape.
Arrests have been effected and certain individuals are undergoing court processes based on criminal charges in relation to inmate Bester.
END
19 June 2023 - NW1879
Buthelezi, Ms SA to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
What methods have been put in place by her department to ensure that traditional leaders have the (a)power and (b) means to contribute and work closely with municipalities towards the successful completion of houses for beneficiaries in tribal lands?
Reply:
a) The National Department of Human Settlements has subsidy-linked programmes designed to provide support and assistance in all types of settlements along the continuum where ownership or rental tenure option can be exercised. From a communal land and human settlements development perspective, the definitive role and demarcated interface between the Department and traditional leaders is expressly defined within some of our programmes and one such programme is the Rural and Communal Land Rights Subsidy Programme.
The programme was developed specifically to assist households in areas with communal tenure to access housing subsidies. The programme provides housing subsidies for housing development on communal land registered in the name of the state or which will be held by community members subject to the rules or custom of that community under their traditional authority.
Under this programme, a beneficiary community member provides proof of uncontested land tenure rights and qualifies for a new order tenure right on the portion of land allocated to him or her by a recognised Traditional Council.
The powers and duties of the land administration committee of the community is exercised and performed by the Traditional Council. The housing subsidy may be utilised for the development of internal municipal services, house building, upgrading of existing housing structures, upgrading of existing services where no alternative funding is available.
b) With respect to role players and decision-making processes, a Traditional Council must in terms of the Traditional Leaders and Governance Framework Act, 2003 (Act No 41 of 2003), co-operate with any relevant Municipal Ward Committee and must meet at least once a year with its traditional community to give account of its activities and needs. There are five role-players within the implementation of the Rural and Communal Land Rights Subsidy Programme; namely, the National Department, the Provincial Department, Municipalities, Traditional Councils; and the Land Administration Committee which came into effect after the promulgation of Communal Land Rights Act (CLaRA).
In addition, the Department has a programme called First Home Finance (FHF), previously known as the Financial-Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP). The objective of this programme is to assist households by providing a once-off down payment to qualifying households to acquire a new house or an existing house or a vacant residential serviced stand. In communal administered land or in rural settings, the FHF subsidy is provided to a qualifying beneficiary through Permission To Occupy (PTO) right that are issued by the government or an officially recognised traditional authority.
In cases where a prospective beneficiary is not in possession of such a PTO, such beneficiary may still buy a PTO-linked housing stand and build their house on it using the FHF subsidy in combination with a housing loan. No subsidy shall be provided nor may building works proceed without the written approval of the Administrator/ Chief of the land in question.
19 June 2023 - NW1609
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Health
With reference to the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital that had their cooling systems compromised in December 2022 when copper piping supplying the theatres with water was stolen, what (a) other incidences of this nature have occurred at other healthcare facilities across the Republic and (b) has he done in response to the rising security and crime threat at public facilities?
Reply:
a) The National Department of Health has been informed by the Gauteng Department of Health about the stolen copper pipes/cables at Charlotte Maxeke, Steve Biko and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospitals. There were other similar incidents that were reported by the Free State Department of Health regarding copper pipes being stolen from the following hospitals:
- Bongani hospital (Welkom)
- Boitumelo hospital (Kroonstad)
- Thebe hospital (Harrismith)
- Monapo hospital (Qwa Qwa)
- Elizabeth Ross hospital (Qwa Qwa)
- National hospital (Bloemfontein)
- Universitas hospital (Bloemfontein)
- JS Maroka hospital (Thaba Nchu)
- Mohau hospital (Hoopstad)
All these incidents were reported to the nearest police stations and case numbers were issued accordingly.
b) Minster of Health has appointed Ministerial Task Team for safety and security in all public health facilities. The purpose of the task team was to assess the effectiveness of security measures and make recommendations. The task team has conducted security assessments at all public health facilities. Subsequently reports were drafted with the following recommendations:
- Improve security infrastructure like perimeter fencing and security guard rooms.
- Installation of security technology like CCTV camera systems, access control and alarm systems.
- Development of standardised security framework.
- Effective security contract management to hold Service Providers accountable.
- Regular security patrols at public health facilities by SAPS especially in hotspot facilities.
- Deployment of police reservists at hotspot public health facilities.
- Implementation of intelligence driven security measures at hotspot facilities
- Escort of EMS by SAPS to hotspot communities.
In this regard, memorandum of understanding was entered into between SAPS and NDoH to ensure regular patrols and deployment of police reservists.
Ministerial task team meet on regular basis to monitor the implementations of the recommendations and to assist provinces with any required security intervention.
END.
19 June 2023 - NW1893
Zondo, Mr S S to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Considering that South African universities often come under criticism due to their financial mismanagement, blatant corruption, and the credibility of the qualifications obtained and/or lack thereof, what active steps does his department take to ensure that they follow up on the specified concerns and address them, since a threat to the credibility of domestic qualifications simply means that our higher education system in its entirety will eventually come under scrutiny?
Reply:
In terms of section 27 (1) the Higher Education Act, it is the Council of a public higher education institution which must govern the institution. In respect of financial mismanagement or presumed corruption, especially where an institution does not comply with conditions linked to allocations from money appropriated by Parliament, Minister may request the Council to comply. In terms of Section 42, should the Council not comply within a predetermined timeframe, Minister may withhold payments of further allocations.
The Higher Education Act further provides that the Minister may:
- issue a directive to the council of a public higher education institution if the Minister has reasonable grounds to believe that the Council or the management of that public higher education institution is involved in financial impropriety, or the public higher education institution is being otherwise mismanaged.
- appoint an independent assessor if circumstances arise at a public higher education institution that involve financial or other maladministration of a serious nature; or seriously undermine the effective functioning of the public higher education institution.
- appoint an administrator, if an audit of the financial records of a public higher education institution or the report by an independent assessor or any other report or information reveals financial or other maladministration of a serious nature or serious undermining of the effective functioning of the public higher education institution.
The Minister has intervened in several institutions by appointing independent assessors to conduct investigations into various allegations of mismanagement and other maladministration; and where reports reveal maladministration of a serious nature, administrators have been appointed to identify and initiate processes and initiatives that restore proper governance and management. In addition, directives have been issued to some institutions to direct on steps to be taken to remedy various deficiencies that would have been identified.
In the instance of compromised qualifications, the Minister may request the Council of Higher Education to provide conduct quality assurance on the relevant qualification/s and thereafter act on the recommendations provided by the CHE.
19 June 2023 - NW1654
Mphithi, Mr L to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(1) Regarding temporary accommodation for the victims of the KwaZulu Natal Floods, what total number of victims were provided accommodation at the Crystal Valley Shelter; (2) Whether her department will furnish Mr L Mphithi (a) the relevant details of the comprehensive tender process in relation to the specified shelter and (b) all details related to how the total value of the relocation amounts to R18 million; if not why not, in each case; if so what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
1. The KwaZulu Natal Province has reported that a total of 550 beds have been provided at the Crystal Valley Shelter.
2. (a) The province has also reported that there was an open tender process, and the tender was referenced as Bid No. HDA / KZN /2022/005.
(b) The province reported that the households were relocated from various Mass Care Centres and all the details are in the tender referenced as Bid No. HDA /KZN/2022/005. Attached are the “SBD 1 Part A Invitation to Bid” and “Tender Opening Form”
19 June 2023 - NW1699
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
Whether she will furnish Mr J Engelbrecht with a comprehensive breakdown of the procurement allocation of (a) her department and (b) every entity reporting to her in terms of the percentages allocated to (i) small-, medium- and micro-enterprises, (ii) cooperatives, (iii) township enterprises and (iv) rural enterprises with a view to evaluating the effectiveness of the set-aside policy of the government in fostering an inclusive and diverse economic landscape in the (aa) 2021-22 financial year and (bb) since 1 April 2023.
Reply:
a) The National Department of Human Settlement’s procurement allocations.
(aa) In respect of 2021-22 financial year, the National Department of Human
Settlements procured over fifty five percent (55%) of goods and services
from suppliers and service providers who are on B-BBEE level 1-4.
i) The procurement allocation is R 60 988 816,96
ii) Procurement from co-operatives R 0,00
iii) Township enterprises R 2 154 021,48 and
iv) Rural enterprises R 2 162 825,54.
April 2023
In respect of 2022/23 financial year, the National Department of Human Settlements procured over ninety seven percent (97%) of goods and services
from suppliers and service providers who are on B-BBEE level 1-4.
i) The procurement allocation is R 23 334 019,86
(ii) Procurement from cooperatives R 0,00
(iii) Township enterprises R 2 162 825,54 and
(iv) Rural enterprises R 327 122,75.
1. Entities Reporting to the Minister
2. Community Schemes Ombud Service: The Community Schemes Ombud Service does not have specific targeted procurement spend allocations for the procurement categories mentioned by the honourable member. However, the Community Schemes Ombud Service has since determined that it spent (i) R42 374 176 (74%) on small-, medium- and micro-enterprises during the (bb) 2021/22 financial year.
3. Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority: The Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority has advised the Department that it did not record any percentage procurement spend for (i) small-, medium- and micro-enterprises (ii) Cooperatives, (iii) Township and (iv) Rural Enterprises during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
4. Social Housing Regulatory Authority: The Social Housing Regulatory Authority spent eighty-five percent (85.61%) on (i) small-, medium- and micro-enterprises during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year. No percentage procurement spent for (ii) Cooperatives, (iii) Township and (iv) Rural Enterprises has been recorded by the Social Housing Regulatory Authority during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
5. Housing Development Agency: The Housing Development Agency does not have specific targeted procurement spend allocations for the procurement categories mentioned by the honourable member. The Housing Development Agency targets procurement spend on women, youth and persons with disabilities in line with Government’s empowerment object. The results are as follows:
-
- Procurement spent targeted at businesses owned by women amounting to R536 025 527. 97 (8.12%) during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
- Procurement spent targeted at businesses owned by youth amounting to R334 757 829. 86 (2.92%) during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
- Procurement spent on businesses owned by persons with disabilities amounting to R124 981 016. 18 (0.53%) during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
6. National Housing Finance Corporation: The National Housing Finance Corporation does not have specific targeted procurement spend allocations for the procurement categories mentioned by the honourable member. However, during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year, the National Housing Finance Corporation targeted the procurement of goods and services from Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) firms level 1 to 4. Due to the nature of competition and service required it is not always practical to purchase goods and services from the targeted B-BBEE levels. The National Housing Finance Corporation procured over seventy five percent (75%) from suppliers and service providers who are on B-BBEE level 1-4, specifically:
- Level 1: R62 195 048.84 (66%)
- Level 2: R4 168 264.19 (4%)
- Level 3: R5 407 730.74 (6%)
- Level 4: R6 880 403.03 (7%)
7. National Home Builders Registration Council: The National Home Builders Registration Council does not have specific targeted procurement spend allocations for the procurement categories mentioned by the honourable member. However, the National Home Builders Registration Council can report actual procurement expenditure as follows:
- Procurement spent on businesses owned by women amounting to R4 187 541.17 (18%) during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
- Procurement spent on businesses owned by youth amounting to R1 261 913.85 (7%) during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
- Procurement spent on businesses owned by persons with disabilities amounting to (0.3%) R12 289.37 during the (aa) 2021/22 financial year.
19 June 2023 - NW1655
Mphithi, Mr L to ask the Minister of Human Settlements
(a) What are the full, relevant details of and reasons for the delay in the Mooikloof Mega City Project?
Reply:
According to information sourced from the developer, Balwin Properties and Infrastructure South Africa, the Mooikloof Mega City Residential Development is at an advanced stage of development.
Since the gazetting of the project in 2020, Infrastructure South Africa has worked with the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality and Balwin Properties to unlock various approvals including the Service Level Agreements, regulatory approvals and key infrastructure connection challenges which caused delays in the construction of the first phase. There were further delays with regard to the environmental approvals for the Eastern Link sewer, however, authorization has been granted and Infrastructure South Africa continues to support the unblocking of such regulatory approvals.
The availability of bulk infrastructure enabling development is a challenge that is experienced across the country, including the Mooikloof Mega City Residential Development.
However, parallel to the construction of the apartments, upgrades to some bulk infrastructure are in progress. Upgrades to the Hill Waste Water Treatment Works are completed and upgrades to Garsfontein road are in progress. Furthermore, Balwin Properties is implementing bulk infrastructure upgrades to the value of R 138 million at present.
Infrastructure South Africa is still engaging City of Tshwane Metro, (who is responsible for the implementation of bulk infrastructure), to develop possible funding mechanisms towards addressing the challenge of bulk infrastructure.
In addition, Infrastructure South Africa has conducted structured engagements with the National Treasury and Development Finance Institutions to put in place mechanisms, within the current legal framework, to provide fiscal support for bulk infrastructure requirements. These processes are envisaged to continue for some time, as different options are being considered, that will unlock funding for bulk infrastructure in the medium to long-term.
The developer gave assurance that the current delays on the project are within their control.
19 June 2023 - NW1511
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
(1) With reference to her reply to question 14 on 8 March 2023, what are the relevant details of the (a) production level on the farm with regard to citrus in terms of the (i) size in hectare that was under production and (ii) tons produced and (b) revenue generated during the past 10 years before being transferred by her department to the new beneficiaries. (2) what are the details of the (a)(i) livestock that was kept on the farm and (ii) revenue generated from the livestock during the past 10 years before being transferred to the new beneficiaries and (b) number of (i) permanent and (ii) seasonal workers who lost their jobs?
Reply:
1. (a) The details of production levels on the farm with regard to citrus are as follows:
- Size in hectares under production: 309 hectares.
- An estimated total of 130 000 cartons of citrus were harvested in 2014/15 for export market.
(b) The Department does not have records relating to revenue generated during the 10 years before being transferred to the beneficiaries.
2. (a) (i) The details of livestock that was kept on the farm are limited to the following:
- 50 heifers and 2 bulls that were received from the Industrial Development Cooperation Nguni scheme. The remaining portions of the grazing land are leased out.
- (II)The Department does not have records relating to revenue generated during the 10 years before being transferred to the beneficiaries.
(b) (i) 188 permanent workers lost their jobs.
(ii) Between 400 to 600 seasonal workers lost their jobs.
19 June 2023 - NW1847
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1)Whether the construction of security walls at the (a) Goodwood Regional office, (b) Allandale Correctional Centre and (c) Pollsmoor Correctional Centre was approved as a priority on the Infrastructure Plan which was submitted to the National Treasury for the (i) 2022-23 and (ii) 2023-24 financial years; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) Whether he will furnish Mr J Engelbrecht with the total expenditure for the construction of the specified security walls; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) Whether municipal approval was obtained prior to the commencement of the construction of the security walls; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1)(a & c) No, Goodwood Regional Office and Pollsmoor Correctional Centre’s installation of vibracrete walls does not fall into the respective financial years as stipulated in the above question. It is for this reason it does not appear on the infrastructure plan.
(1)(b) Allandale Correctional Centre’s installation work is being done by Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and therefore does not appear on the infrastructure plan of the Department of Correctional Services
(2) The total expenditure incurred was for the purchase of building material as follows:
- Pollsmoor Management Area - R490 000.00;
- Allandale Management Area – R 866 844.60;
- Goodwood Management Area – R324 000.51
Own resources were utilised for construction of the walls at Goodwood and Pollsmoor Management Areas. In Allandale Management Area DPWI is assisting with the use of a service provider for the construction.
(3) According to the National Building Regulations and Building Standards, Act No.103, 1977 section 2 subsection 3 does not bind the State in submitting building plans to the Municipality.
END.
19 June 2023 - NW1804
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Considering the continued attacks and killings of staff members of the University of Fort Hare (UFH) amidst allegations of corruption in that institution, what measures has he put in place to ensure the safety of whistle-blowers and staff members at UFH?
Reply:
I am concerned about the safety of students and staff members at all the institutions of higher learning.
Following certain outbursts by senior management in the media, I have tabled the protection of whistle blowers on the agenda for discussion with the Council of the University of Fort Hare.
The University of Fort Hare has in the interim confirmed that the Council expedited the finalization and approval of the Whistleblowing Policy and Procedures, through which any information brought forth would be investigated in a fair and regulated manner. We are advised that the policy makes provision for protection of staff members and students who have alerted the university to corrupt conducts and acts.
19 June 2023 - NW1846
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
Whether, with regard to the construction of security walls at the (a) Goodwood Regional Office, (b) Allandale Correctional Centre and (c) Pollsmoor Maximum Security Prison, the designs were approved in reliance on the Project and Construction Management Professions Act, Act 48 of 2000; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the appointed (i) civil engineer and (ii) safety agent for all mentioned sites; (2) whether the specified designs were done in reliance on the National Environmental Management Act, Act 107 of 1998; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3) Whether he will furnish Mr J Engelbrecht with a copy of the approvals for all mentioned sites; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) Whether a competitive tender process was followed for the procurement of (a) a contractor and (b) material for all mentioned sites; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
(1)(a) No, the mentioned wall is a pre-cast vibracrete wall. Installation was done as per domestic pre-cast installation, therefore, no civil engineer was required. However, the manufactures’ specifications were adhered to for the installation and training was provided by the supplier on site. No safety agent was appointed. However, health & safety regulations were adhered to.
(1)(b) In the case of Allandale Correctional Centre, the Department of Public Works & Infrastructure (DPWI) appointed a service provider for the installation of the wall. A shop drawing, specification and construction method were provided. See attached as “Annexure 1”. There was no safety agent appointed. However, Health & Safety Regulations are being adhered to.
(1)(c) For Pollsmoor Maximum Correctional Centre a shop drawing was designed and signed by the Manufacturer’s Professional Engineer and specifications with construction methodology were provided. See attached as “Annexure 2”. There was no safety agent appointed however Health & Safety Regulations are being adhered to.
(2) In respect of all three sites, existing fence lines were being replaced by a new type of fence which is the pre-cast walling. Therefore, with respect to Environmental impact studies there wasn’t any registered, however, the necessary installation specifications were adhered to.
(3) There were no approvals required because the work conducted was for replacing redundant existing fence lines.
(4)(a) DPWI appointed a contractor for Allandale Management Area and for Pollsmoor & Goodwood Regional Office artisan and offender labour was utilised.
(4)(b) A competitive price quotation process was followed for purchasing of the material.
END.
19 June 2023 - NW1611
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Health
Noting how numerous facilities do not have floor plans and/or adequate fire detection systems in place, (a) what is the current status of healthcare facilities regarding this in each province, (b) what measures will he put in place to resolve the issue and (c) on what date will he ensure intervention with resolve is enacted?
Reply:
(a) (i) Floor plans are available for all our health care facilities. However, most of them are outdated due to the aging of many facilities. (ii) See below existing health facilities with adequate fire detection systems:
(b)-(c) Aging public health facilities remains a challenge and growing concern for the Department of Health. The short-, medium- and long-term focus is thus more on restoring many of these facilities to an acceptable state of operability. The National Department of Health is currently busy with the following interventions:
(i) CSIR is currently busy with an investigation into how to become more green in future and will include the OHS Compliance issues and fire detection systems for all the healthcare facilities.
(ii) Provinces have been requested to include the update of the floor plans and fire detection systems during the condition assessment audits of their facilities. This request is aligned with the requirements of the Government Immovable Asset Management Act (GIAMA).
In the same Act the User, which in this case is the Provincial Departments of Health, should annually revise its User Asset Management Plan (UAMP) in alignment with the guidelines provided by Public Works. The User Immovable Asset Management Plan (UAMP) for the Department of Health informs the budget allocation process in terms of the overall and annual strategic plans of the Department. The objectives of the UAMP are to:
- assess the utilisation of accommodation in terms of the Department of Health’s service delivery objectives.
- assess the functional performance of the accommodation.
- prioritise the need for repair, refurbishment or reconfiguration of all state-owned accommodation.
- plan for future accommodation requirements and
- secure funding for the acquisition and utilisation of assets according to the strategic objectives of the relevant department.
- All major upgrades and new installations must cover the upgrading of the fire detection systems.
END.
19 June 2023 - NW1881
Msimang, Prof CT to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
What new and actionable solutions has the Government undertaken to ensure that prisoners who bring to light abuses suffered at the hands of wardens and prison management are protected whilst still incarcerated in such prisons, especially where the transfer to another facility is not an option, as seen in the Thabo Bester case where prison whistle-blowers are now being targeted and their lives threatened?
Reply:
It should be noted that inmates who came forward with information about Thabo Bester were not whistle blowers with regard to the escape. The offenders referred to only claimed to know about the Thabo Bester escape after it was published in the media. The inmates were transferred out of Mangaung Correctional Centre (MCC) in consideration of their safety.
As a matter of course, routine complaints and requests are taken daily from offenders in Units and registered in the G365 register. For protection of other inmates against officials and management the Judicial Inspectorate of Correctional Services (JICS) is available daily in Correctional facilities to take complaints by and some requests of inmates, these inmates are attended to independently without monitoring and supervision of Correctional officials. Inmates are also assisted to open cases with the police where necessary.
The following whistle blower procedures are applied in DCS:
- Offenders who provide reliable information concerning any wrong doings by other offenders and officials are interviewed by the Unit Manager/ Head of Correctional Centre (HCC) and such inmates are given an option to be transferred out of those facilities or placed in isolation cells for own safety in terms of section 7 of Act 111 of 1998 as amended.
- Stipulations of the whistle-blowers policy of the Department implemented as the protected Disclosures Act 26 of 2000 which was effective in February 2001, state that their name/s should remain anonymous, identity should never be revealed and information should be limited to the Unit Manager/HCC and the investigators.
- Registered whistle blowers are assigned code names and an inmate registration. A whistle blower only interacts with a dedicated official in the holding correctional facility who is assigned to handle the whistle blower.
- Deployment of other experienced officials/Emergency Support Teams (ESTs) from other Centres in the Units where whistle blowers are incarcerated is also considered. Daily visits must be conducted by the Head of Correctional Centre and other Centre Managers.
- Clear and secure communication between the concerned officials and whistle blowers should be maintained at all times.
- Food for whistle blowers should be handled with care in cases where there might be information and suspicions that the offender might be in danger.
- Visits of whistle blowers should be monitored for safety reasons.
- Complaints and requests are taken daily from offenders in the Units and registered on G365 register. Offenders also have access to the Head of Centre and feedback is provided within seven days of the complaint.
- There are also Independent Correctional Centre Visitors (ICCVs) officials from the Judicial Inspectorate of Correctional Services (JICS) that are available at Correctional Centres.
- Offenders have direct access to JICS via these officials. Offenders are free to register any complaint, concern or grievance to these ICCV officials for further handling with JICS.
- Offenders have access to telephones (landlines) and they are able to report their concerns directly to Departmental Investigation Unit (DIU), SAPS, the Presidential Hotline or Public Protector.
- Any official or HCC found to be abusing or threatening offenders that provide any information regarding corruption, abuse, fraud (any complaint) may be charged departmentally and criminally (SAPS).
- Immediate and prompt intervention and consequence management is prioritised and implemented at all levels.
- The placement of a locked suggestion / grievance box in all units that can only be accessed by HCC also assists in getting confidential information to keep inmates safe when they are whistle blowers.
- The office of the Regional Commissioner and the Management team continuously sensitise officials and offenders to refrain from activities that are embarrassing to the DCS and that are illegal in nature.
END.
19 June 2023 - NW1822
Masipa, Mr NP to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Whether she will provide a standard protocol for the maintenance of agricultural colleges in the Republic; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether she has found that all colleges are adhering to the required standards and protocol; if not, what measures has she put in place to impose compliance; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether there have been colleges that were given notices for not complying with the required standards; if not, why not; if so, which colleges?
Reply:
1. No. The day-to-day management of Colleges of Agriculture is currently with the Provincial Departments of Agriculture.
2. Falls away.
3. Falls away.
19 June 2023 - NW1922
Marais, Ms P to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
Whether his department has looked into the extent of the problems brought up by students who are subjected to Southpoint due to the failure to provide student accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the reasons that his department has not (a) banned Southpoint from doing business in the Republic and (b) taken control of its properties to guarantee that students have a safe and healthy place to live?
Reply:
South Point are private providers of student accommodation and support several universities in the Western Cape and Gauteng. The Department is not aware of complaints about South Point and has not received any complaints from students on accommodation provided by South Point. Hon. Marais is requested to provide more details about the complaints so that further investigations can be conducted, and comprehensive response be provided.
15 June 2023 - NW2192
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
(2). what (a) total number of penalties were issued and (b) are the relevant details of the specified penalties, including the Rand value thereof. (3). what (a) total number of cases were referred to court for prosecution and (b) are the relevant details of the specified cases?
Reply:
(1). The total number of incidents received and processed by the South Africa Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) as part of implementing the National Heritage Resources Act, Act 25 of 1999, over the past 3 financial years (2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023) is eighty-six (86) as shown in the Table below. This includes contraventions, accidental finds, and other non-contravention complaints. Each Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (PHRA) is responsible for the management of contraventions within their respective areas of remit in implementing the National Heritage Resources Act, Act 25 of 1999. As such SAHRA does not maintain a record of contraventions where SAHRA was not the responsible authority or otherwise not involved.
2020/2021 |
2021/2022 |
2022/2023 |
Total |
|
Incidents Reported per year |
17 |
25 |
44 |
86 |
(2). In terms of Section 51 of the National Heritage Resources Act, Act 25 of 1999, SAHRA does not administer penalties as this fall within the scope of the Department of Justice.
(3). Indicated in the table below is the Five (5) cases that have been escalated for further legal action in collaboration with SAHRA.
Case |
In terms of |
Prosecution Status |
Details |
Theft from the Transnet Museum in George |
Theft Report |
Prosecuted |
The accused was found guilty and sentenced to a year in jail. |
Albion Dog Cart |
Contravention of section 32 (19) of the NHRA |
Escalated to the Director of Public Prosecution’s Office and DPCI |
A warrant of arrest (J51) will be filed for the accused which will be exercised should the accused enter into South Africa. The report will be filed after the 19 June 2023 |
Nelson Mandela Collection |
Contravention of section 32 (19) of the NHRA |
Escalated to the Director of Public Prosecution’s Office and DPCI |
Case likely to be recommended to the NPA; decision will be communicated to SAHRA in due course. |
Beauchamp – Proctor Medals |
Contravention of section 32 (19) of the NHRA |
Escalated to the Director of Public Prosecution’s Office and DPCI |
Decision to prosecute will be communicated by 19 June 2023 |
Alexis Preller Artwork |
Theft Report |
Escalated to the Director of Public Prosecution’s Office and DPCI |
DPCI recovered the painting from an auction house. The owner of the painting requested for transferral to a suitable location; artwork was handed over to Pretoria Art Gallery for Protection and Conservation |
15 June 2023 - NW2131
Maotwe, Ms OMC to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
With reference to the Mining Indaba that was held in Cape Town earlier this year, wherein mining experts indicated that the mining industry had lost about R51 billion in 12 months because of Transnet’s inability to have functional railway lines and a sufficient number of working locomotives, and in view of the recent announcement by Transnet that they have suspended loading in Durban and the Reef because of network unavailability, which may cause further problems, what (a) is the full nature of the problems at Transnet that prevent them from functioning at optimal capacity and (b) steps has he taken to resolve the specified problems?
Reply:
According to the information received from Transnet
a) Transnet Freight Rail faces three major challenges that impact its ability to deliver reliable rail services to all its customers on virtually all the corridors, with some more impacted than others.
1.1 Locomotive availability and reliability have decreased significantly on all the key corridors but especially on the North and North-East corridors that primarily rails coal, chrome and magnetite. In 2017/18 when TFR railed 226 million tonnes (mt), TFR had a total of 2215 locomotives available whereas in 2022/23 it has 1533 locomotives available and 364 so called long-standing locomotives at the end of May 2023.
The tender to return to service the long-standing locomotives has closed with Alstom and Wabtec proposing a return to operations schedule for the speedy return to service of their locomotives. Negotiations with CRRC loco are ongoing. The impact of reduced locomotive availability is estimated to cost TFR approximately R16 million per day in lost revenue.
1.2 Infrastructure: Systemic underinvestment over the years has resulted in decreased reliability of infrastructure leading to increased derailments and speed restrictions that reduce available capacity on rail. To ensure the availability of cash to fund the maintenance of infrastructure, TFR is working on submitting an application to the interim rail regulator for full cost recovery tariffs. Furthermore, Transnet has taken the decision for TFR to exit all loss-making flows to ensure the profitability of all corridors. Lastly the operating lease on the container corridor is intended to curtail the losses on this corridor.
1.3 Security: Crippling theft & vandalism of key infrastructure and locomotives resulting in significant operational disruptions and additional unbudgeted costs associated with these repairs further reducing the funds available for scheduled maintenance. During the Covid shutdown period theft of copper cable escalated significantly. During the period 2016/17 to 2021/22, security related incidents increased by 179%.
TFR implemented various security initiatives ranging from the introduction of drones to support surveillance, customer partnerships to increase the deployment of security resources, specialised task teams in identified hotspot areas and various other initiatives that resulted in a 30% reduction in cable theft incidents during the 2022/23 financial year. Notwithstanding the improvement over the past year, the incidents remain high. Over 1000 km of copper cable was stolen during the 2022/23 financial year, costing TFR R310m to replace which is a reduction from the loss of nearly 1500km the previous year at a replacement cost of R462 million.
In 2021/22 and 2022/23, the majority (44% and 39%) of the cable theft incidents occurred on the Container Corridor. The scale of the theft of Overhead Track and Equipment (OHTE) is also the highest on the Container Corridor – 522km for the past year compared to an average of 130km per corridor for the rest of the system. During May 2023, the Container Corridor was severely impacted by unprecedented levels of theft and vandalism, resulting in a significant loss in available capacity. The situation was further exacerbated by the heavy rains during the same period that made repairing the network difficult. Operations have since resumed and improved following the implementation of additional security measures. TFR security has deployed ground forces in the targeted hotspot areas. This is an interim measure as engagements continue with law enforcement agencies to assist in the policing of the rail infrastructure.
TFR in isolation is not able to deal with the theft and vandalism of the rail infrastructure and made recommendations via the Industry Crime Forum (ICF) to the Non-Ferrous Metal Crime Combating Committee (NFMCCC) to support the following recommendations to the Natjoint:
1.4 The establishment of a dedicated crime court for criminal matters involving essential infrastructure,
1.5 The establishment of dedicated specialised essential infrastructure task team (EEIT) units in each of the provinces, which includes members from visible policing, crime intelligence, and crime detection, dedicated to the protection of essential infrastructure and;
1.6 For every SAPS station nationally to make available a dedicated small unit from visible policing, crime intelligence, and crime detection to focus on essential infrastructure related crime.
b) Security: the tender of Outcomes based Security closed with the roll out beginning shortly. In the case of the container corridor, given the potential operating lease, TFR has commenced the process to identify an Outcome Based Security service provider for 1 year on the Container Corridor.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane P J Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
15 June 2023 - NW2165
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether, noting that in the Budget Vote 6 documentation, mention is made of plans by her department to repurpose underused state‐owned properties in its global portfolio and refurbish, renovate and maintain 24 existing properties across the world, she will furnish Mr M Hlengwa with the relevant details of the (a) specified 24 properties, (b) nature of the renovations required, (c) projected cost of each renovation, (d) process followed when appointing service providers to complete such work and (e) mechanisms that are in place to protect her department if work is not completed on time, within budget, and/or faulty and/or poor workmanship is uncovered; if not, why not, in each case; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?
Reply:
No |
a) Specified Mission Properties |
b) Nature of renovations works |
(c) Projected cost of each renovation |
1 |
Windhoek: Official Residence and staff houses |
Renovations of the exterior at the Official Residence and 3 staff houses - |
R3 688 300 |
2 |
Kinshasa: Chancery and compound |
Repair of lift and repainting of the exterior Chancery and staff compound |
R5 300 000 |
3 |
Mbabane: Official residence |
Refurbishment of the of the official residence. |
R6 600 000 |
4 |
Addis Ababa: Chancery |
Repairs to the Chancery |
R3 081 000 |
5 |
Maseru: Official residence |
Repair and maintenance of the official residence |
R5 600 000 |
6 |
Abuja: Chancery |
Replacement of air conditioners |
R895 000 |
7 |
Tokyo: Official Residence |
Painting of exterior wall |
R1 100 000 |
8 |
Ottawa: Chancery & Official Residence |
Repair and maintenance at the OR and Chancery |
R2 500 000 |
9 |
Brazil: Chancery |
Repairs to generator room and upgrading of electrical system |
R4000 000 |
10 |
Canberra: Official residence |
Repair to the roof and replacement of kitchen and wooden windows |
R2 300 000 |
11 |
Copenhagen: Chancery and Official Residence |
Repairs and maintenance of the Chancery and OR |
R14 800 000 |
12 |
Vienna: Official residence |
Renovations at the Official residence |
R 4000 000 |
13 |
Rome; Official residence |
Repair of the Official Residence Basement |
R 5000 000 |
14 |
Brussels: Official Residence |
Upgrading of electrical and plumbing system and repair to the roof |
R4 200 000 |
15 |
London: Chancery |
Condition assessment and Repair and maintenance of staff houses |
R7 2000 000 |
16 |
New York: Official residence |
Condition assessment and maintenance of exterior and interior |
R 6 200 000 |
17 |
Lisbon Chancery and OR |
Repairs of plumbing and electrical works |
R3 600 000 |
18 |
Lilongwe: Staff houses |
Repair and maintenance of plumbing and electrical works |
R1 400 000 |
19 |
Washington: Repair |
Repair of damaged MEP system and staff house |
R3 200 000 |
20 |
Madrid: Chancery and OR |
Upgrading of electrical and plumbing system |
R1 549 000 |
21 |
Dar Es Salaam: Chancery |
Repair and maintenance to the roof and electrical system |
R3 200 000 |
22 |
Berlin: Chancery |
Repair to the roof, electrical and plumbing works |
R2 700 000 |
23 |
Geneva; Official residence |
Repair to the official residence |
R 2000 000 |
24 |
Berne: Official residence |
Upgrading of the electrical and plumbing works |
R1 520 000 |
d) Service Providers are appointed through open bids (request quotations and open tender) depending on the value of the project.
e) The project risk assessment is undertaken for tender projects, Legal Service make inputs on the service level agreements and contract for all projects to ensure the Department is protected. Each project is allocated a Project Manager to ensure quality work is executed within cost and in time.
15 June 2023 - NW2304
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
What progress has been made by the Republic to reform the United Nations Security Council?
Reply:
South Africa continues to participate in the United Nations General Assembly’s Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) on the Security Council, both in its capacity, as a sovereign member state, and as a member of the African Group. South Africa believes that there must be a common acknowledgment, particularly by those member states maintaining the status quo in the Security Council that the international political and economic system remains unequal, unfair and unjust.
South Africa continues to advocate for the urgent reform of the Council, based on the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which calls for two permanent seats, and five non-permanent seats and the abolishment of the veto. However, for as long as it exists, it is a privilege, which should be extended to all new permanent members.
South Africa has consistently called for text-based negotiations to register progress, especially since there are no negotiations in the IGN. Rather, the IGN has been characterised by the delivery of Group statements and statements made by member states in their national capacities. The Co-Chairs of the IGN developed a Revised Elements Paper on Convergences and Divergences on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and related matters” which has been updated in May 2023 following several rounds of consultation. This document provides a preliminary basis for text-based negotiations. In addition, the IGN has now also established a specific website to act as a repository of the recordings of the webcasts as well as of the letters, decisions, statements of Member States, and other documents related to the IGN process.
In support of the realisation of the aspirations of Agenda 2063, the Africa We Want, and the continent’s ambition to Silence the Guns, South Africa continues to call for the Council’s urgent reform, and the need to correct the historical injustices committed against the African continent. Our engagement will remain focused on highlighting that, through broad and extensive engagement, underpinned by the spirit of multilateralism, dialogue and negotiation, member states can find pathways to convergence. South Africa will emphasise that political divergences should not be the reason for holding back progress.
15 June 2023 - NW2052
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether, given the alleged large-scale and persistent abuse of human rights, including the denial of free and fair democratic elections, in the Republic of Cuba, the Republic will consider downgrading the status of the SA Embassy in Havana to that of Liaison Office in order to demonstrate our commitment to democratic values and human rights; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The South African Government is not considering the downgrading of its diplomatic representation in Cuba as the Government believes that institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Attorney General have demonstrated their ability to deal with alleged human rights violations. Downgrading diplomatic relations is a drastic act that can only be considered when states continuously disregard international law in circumstances where states are illegally occupying the territories of other countries, deny people a legitimate right to self-determination and practice systemic forms of oppression, including breaching important international conventions, including for example, the Convention Against Apartheid.
15 June 2023 - NW2215
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
What (a) amount from the Legacy Trust Fund of the SA Football Association (SAFA) has been spent to date, (b) is the breakdown of what the amount was spent on and (c) amount is left in the Legacy Trust Fund?
Reply:
In responding to these questions, SAFA have submitted a closeout report of the Legacy Trust which responds to the amounts spent and documents that detail the work done by the Legacy Trust, see the Financial Overview as at 28 February 2022
(a). TOTAL EXPENDITURE: R 610,754,230
(b). ORIGINAL INVESTMENT: R 450,762,916
Income:
• Interest received: R 160,060,913
• Other income: R 56,112
TOTAL INCOME (SUB Total): R 160,117,025
TOTAL INCOME (+ Original) R 610,879,941
Expenditure
• Admin & Related: R 69,478,409
• Grants paid: R 541,275,821
(c). AVAILABLE BALANCE: R 125,711
See attached document below :
15 June 2023 - NW2338
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) In view of numerous studies that have shown that more than 50% of teachers in the Republic lack basic levels of mathematics content knowledge, how does she justify the fact that more than 99% of educators are rated as acceptable which is defined in terms of the collective Agreement No. 2 of 2020 as a level of performance that is acceptable and satisfies the minimum expectations; (2) whether she has found that a teacher satisfies minimum expectations and can teach acceptably if s(he) lacks basic content knowledge; if not, how is it that 99% of all teachers are rated as acceptable and/or higher despite widespread evidence and government acknowledgement that teachers lack basic content knowledge; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. It is acknowledged that there is a need for ongoing capacity building of educators that teach Mathematics in content knowledge and pedagogy.
Currently, the appraisal of educators is undertaken according to the Quality Management System (QMS) as informed by Collective Agreement No. 02 of 2020. Since 2022 was the first full year of the implementation of QMS, an analysis of the educator scores for the 2022 appraisal cycle is in progress, and will be finalised once the data is available from National Treasury. Given the latter, the proportion of educators rated as acceptable in terms of Collective Agreement No, 02 of 2022 cannot be verified.
2. The Minister does not believe that teachers can teach acceptably well without a basic minimum of subject knowledge.
Teachers who lack basic content knowledge in a subject, are identified and subjected to training and support, to improve their knowledge and skills in the identified subjects.
The QMS as an appraisal process is driven by all members of the School Management Team (SMT).
The appraisal of teachers is undertaken by the SMT, and is based on five (5) performance standards as follows:
- Creation of a positive learning and teaching environment;
- Curriculum knowledge, lesson planning and presentation;
- Learner assessment and achievement;
- Professional development; and
- Extra-mural and co-curricular participation.
The appraisal of a Post Level 1 Educator is undertaken across a range of 12 criteria and 38 descriptors within the above five (5) performance standards. Contextual factors of the school are also considered where these have been identified. In this regard consideration is given to the following:
- The nature of the contextual factor;
- The level of its impact on the educator’s performance; and
- The extent to which the educator was able to mitigate such impact.
The QMS also provides a basis to recognise good performance and address underperformance through targeted interventions that could be school-based or provided through external support.
15 June 2023 - NW2213
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE:
1) WHAT ARE THE DETAILS OF THE SUPPORT THAT THE SA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (SAFA) PROVIDED TO SA FOOTBALL TEAM COACH, MR DAVID NOTOANE, CONSIDERING THAT HE RESIGNED ON THE ROBERT MARAWA SHOW COMPLAINING THAT HE GOT NO SUPPORT FROM THE SA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (SAFA) TO HELP THE TEAM TO SUCCEED, AND IN VIEW OF THE TEAM HAVING FAILED TO QUALIFY FOR NEXT YEAR’S OLYMPIC GAMES; 2) WHAT HAS HE FOUND TO BE THE REASONS AND/OR THE PROBLEM THAT ALL THE SAFA VICE PRESIDENTS END UP VACATING THEIR POSITIONS ALLEGEDLY DUE TO A BAD RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SAFA PRESIDENT, MR DANNY JORDAAN, WHO HAS SERVED WITH 10 VICE PRESIDENTS IN 10 YEARS WITH ONLY MR IRVIN KHOZA HAVING SURVIVED BECAUSE HE IS EX OFFICIO
Reply:
1. SAFA indicates that Mr. David Notoane was given all the necessary and possible support during the qualifying matches. It is paramount that we highlight that most of the Under 23 players come from the PSL teams. Therefore, the availability of players was dependant on the PSL clubs releasing them. SAFA submitted several requests to the PSL on behalf of Coach Notoane. Unfortunately, the PSL clubs could only release their players during the FIFA Window periods. This automatically restricted the number of camps that the team could have. So, we gave the coach the maximum possible training days. For the matches against Togo, home and away, the team camped for the full periods which were requested by Coach Notoane. It was the same situation with the matches (home and away) against Congo. The coach was also given all the technical support that he requested which included a Physical Trainer, Video Analyst, Goalkeeper Coach, Team Doctor, Physiotherapist and Masseur.
2. SAFA has indicated that they cannot speak on behalf of the Mr. Notoane. The Ministry also does not get involved with administrative matters of National Federations.
15 June 2023 - NW2167
Hlengwa, Mr M to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
With reference to a media statement issued by her department on 16 May 2023, according to which the African Heads of State are to be received in Moscow and Kyiv, while on a peace mission to find a peaceful resolution to the devastating conflict in the Ukraine with its cost to human lives and impact on the African continent, what (a) are the further, relevant details of the specified engagement and (b) does the Government envisage a peaceful resolution would entail?
Reply:
(a) Six African Heads of State, the President of South Africa, HE Mr CM Ramaphosa, HE Mr Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of the Republic of Congo, H.E. Mr Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, H.E. Mr Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal, H.E. Mr Yoweri Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of Zambia, are scheduled to travel to Ukraine and Russia on a peace mission to meet with President Volodimyr Zelensky and President Vladimir Putin respectively. The initial high-level engagements will primarily be aimed at understanding the Ukrainian twelve-point plan and the Russian proposals. The African peace mission’s objective is not aimed at competing or disregarding any previous or current peace efforts such as the Chinese ten-point plan and the Turkish Istanbul talks, rather it hopes to complement these.
(b) President Zelensky met with the African Union through a video link on 20 June 2022 and that engagement laid the basis for the upcoming in-person meeting. Through this peace mission, Africa’s vision for peace will be presented to the two Presidents. President Zelensky and President Putin’s willingness to meet with the peace mission for the peace mission to listen to both sides, is a first inspirational step towards the envisaged negotiations.
15 June 2023 - NW2313
Msane, Ms TP to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
How were the African Heads of States nominated that will lead the peace initiative to Russia and Ukraine, considering that some of the countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo have been unstable for many years?
Reply:
Following extensive discussion of the Ukraine-Russia crisis and its impact on Africa and other developing countries, a group of seven African Presidents agreed to undertake a peace mission to Ukraine and Russia. The objective of the Mission is to promote the importance of peace and to encourage the parties to agree to a diplomacy-led process of negotiations. This initiative includes diverse voices from the Continent on the conflict, consisting of Comoros (current Chair of the African Union), the Republic of Congo, Egypt, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda and Zambia.
It is the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) and not the Democratic Republic of Congo that is part of the peace initiative
15 June 2023 - NW2240
Madlingozi, Mr BS to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
What are the (a) current developments pertaining to the allegation of mismanagement of the Presidential Employment Stimulus programme, by the National Arts Council (NAC) and (b) reasons that the same board of directors and councillors still preside over the work of the NAC, while the scandal of the R56,4 million given to the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra still, hangs over their heads?
Reply:
(a). The National Arts Council (NAC) has successfully implemented its third Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PES++++++----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------P4). There has been no mismanagement of the PESP4. We opened our call on the 20 February 2023, and closed on the 31 March 2023, and recently announced on the 31st May 2023. This was a record implementation in terms of time (considering the number of applications received). The NAC team worked very hard in ensuring that they do not miss the deadline to announce the dates.
This hard work paid off, as it resulted in the entity announcing the list of 637 successful beneficiaries. Below is an important summary of PESP 4.
Applications Received |
Applications Approved |
Shortfall |
% Funded |
4752 |
637 |
4115 |
|
R5 087 253 146,79 |
R182 400 000,01 |
R4 904 853 146,79 |
4% |
At the recent industry announcement held on 31 May 2023, the industry gave positive feedback to the NAC on the turnaround of the entity in implementing its programmes as well as communicating with the industry. There was not even a single complaint from any stakeholder.
As per the above table, The NAC continues to appeal to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee of Sport, Arts and Culture to attend to the issue of budget limitations related to the sector. The NAC funds seven (7) arts disciplines in the country, and as long as the entity can only fund 4% of the value of applications received, the extreme frustration of our sector will continue. The NAC worked with the Department to further ensure there were no beneficiary duplications between the two entities.
(b). The NAC continues to clarify to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee that there is no scandal related to the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra. All funds have been accounted for and the good work of the MNPO continues. Which is to benefit artists across the provinces of South Africa. There has been continued engagement between the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) and the leadership of the NAC to assist them in concluding their audit.
We are proud of the transformative nature of our strategic programmes, in particular the meaningful contribution of the Mzansi Philharmonic Orchestra to the smaller and Marginalized provinces.
15 June 2023 - NW2096
Chirwa-Mpungose, Ms NN to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) Notwithstanding her reply to question 544 on 8 March 2023 and the recent debacle on the tenders for the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) being problematised and disturbed in KwaZulu-Natal, accompanied by reports of substandard food being given to learners, how does her department ensure that the learners receive nutritious food via the NSNP; (2) whether her department has been informed of any other concerning reports in the schools concerning fights between learners and the personnel who assist with distributing food to learners; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) how (a) does her department ensure that the food is inspected and (b) frequent are the inspections carried out by her department in each (i) school and (ii) province?
Reply:
(i) The DBE reviews and approves the Provincial menus annually in line with a cost effective food basket aligned with the Conditional Grant Framework. Food specifications from the Department of Health are used to guide quality and quantities. NSNP performance on menu compliance at schools is measured using monitoring tools, based on a key performance indicator (KPI) scores, that include time for feeding, balanced meal, quantities in starch, protein, fruit and/or vegetables.
(ii) Fighting between learners and the personnel who distribute food to learners is condemned and unacceptable. However, the School Management Teams and School Governing Bodies are responsible for discipline in schools. The school code of conduct is adhered to to deal with disciplinary matters.
(iii) (a) Warehouses are monitored and inspected by the local authority through Environment Health Inspectors, to ensure compliance to food safety standards. The NSNP has employed monitors in each district to assess compliance on quality, quantity and food safety, when monitoring in schools. (b) District-based Food Safety Teams do spot checks periodically, and educators responsible for NSNP, are trained on food labelling etc., for daily inspections.
15 June 2023 - NW2014
Makesini, Ms M to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
WHETHER HIS DEPARTMENT IS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE MANGAUNG METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY TO HOST THE COUNCIL OF SOUTHERN AFRICA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP IN MAY TO JULY 2023; IF NOT, WHAT IS THE POSITION IN THIS REGARD; IF SO, (A) WHAT ARE THE DETAILS OF THE SPECIFIED PARTNERSHIP, (B) WHO IS FUNDING THE INTERNATIONAL EVENT AND (C) WHAT TOTAL AMOUNT OF THE BUDGET WILL BE SPENT FOR THE EVENT?
Reply:
The Department is not in partnership with the Mangaung Municipality in hosting the Southern Africa Football Associations Championship. A). There is no partnership. B) The Department is not aware of who is funding the event. C) The Department is not aware of the financial implications associated with the hosting of the event as it is not involved nor officially informed about it.
15 June 2023 - NW2182
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What (a) plans and (b) programmes has her department put in place to ensure that indigent children who are not in school are (i) tracked and (ii) placed in school?
Reply:
(a)(b)
(i) The Department of Basic Education has signed an Intergovernmental Protocol Agreement with the Department of Social Development and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to compare and triangulate data between the Department of Basic Education’s Learner Unit Record Information and Tracking System (LURITS) and SASSA’s Social Pension System (SOCPEN) to identify if children who are at school-going age and receiving social grants, are enrolled and attending school. This initiative continues to assist the department in tracking out of school children, who are receiving social grants. Data is provided to Department of Social Development to assist them to intervene in a household social perspective.
(ii) Another initiative is the development of the National Integrated Protection Information System (NISPIS) across the social sector, which will also assist in monitoring out-of-school and vulnerable children receiving other social protection services.
15 June 2023 - NW2106
Mbuyane, Mr S H to ask the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition
Noting that the Competition Commission released their report on measuring the levels of concentration in the South African economy in November 2021, wherein it was recommended that considering the financial constraints of the Government in funding small-, medium- and micro- enterprises, the Government should ensure that the private sector financial institutions close that gap and fund small businesses owned by previously disadvantaged individuals, particularly those in the agro-processing and manufacturing sectors, what measures has his department adopted to date to ensure the implementation of the specified recommendation?
Reply:
The findings of the Competition Commission report are taken up in a number of ways. They include the following:
1. Market Inquiries/investigations in terms of the Competition Act.
2. Considerations applied during the assessment of merger applications.
3. Support for SMMEs through financing packages.
4. Measures to strengthen the competitiveness of smaller firms.
5. Promotion of supplier development funds and partnerships.
6. Measures in masterplans.
the dtic and its entities, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and National Empowerment Fund (NEF) offer a range of funding instruments for the support of SMMES as grants and loans.
the dtic provides support to emerging exporters, to show-case their products at international exhibitions, funding to develop emerging black film makers through the Film and TV incentive as well as emerging black aquaculture farmers.
Other cost-sharing grant funding is available to SMMEs operating in the research and development field . The funding for these incentives is structured to encourage collaboration between industry and academia that will result in the development of pioneering prototypes ready for commercialisation.
A recent report to the Portfolio Committee highlighted the work of the dtic-group on township economies.
Additional resources are mobilised through supplier funds, such as:
- Shoprite establishing a R350 million development fund to develop independent retails, spaza shops, micro caterers and micro farmers.
- Heineken to establish a R400 million Supplier Development Fund, and procure R4.7 billion from Historically Disadvantaged Persons.
- Pepsico has made R300 million available as a development fund to develop the capacity of emerging farmers, R100 million contribution for enterprise development and R200 million for educational programmes in partnership with universities.
- Coca-Cola has contributed R240 million to a localization fund and will increase volumes of sugar procured from black sugarcane farmers.
- Implats will contribute R50 million for regional enterprise development that will benefit women and youth owned businesses.
- Mediclinic will for a period of five years will ensure procurement of R2.5 billion from small and black owned enterprises.
-END-
15 June 2023 - NW2059
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Whether the SA Football Association SAFA received a loan from the International Federation of Football Associations, if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) amount, (b) is the breakdown of what the loan was to spent on and (c) is the repayment plan?
Reply:
(a). SAFA indicates that they received a loan from FIFA and the amount is USD 1’500’000.00. During the peak of Covid-19, most of FIFA’s Member Associations were experiencing a decline in income because of the global lockdown which put a halt on football activities. In order to mitigate the adverse impact of Covid-19 on its Member Associations, FIFA introduced an array of relief measures which included interest free loans.
b). The interest free loans were to be used for the following:
- Implementation of return-to-play protocols, including testing
- Participation of national teams in restarted competitions
- Payment of staff costs and hiring of essential staff, where necessary
SAFA used the loan proceeds to restart its competitions and for the national teams to participate in international competitions. Some of the funds were used to pay the Men Senior National team technical staff.
(c). The repayment period of this loan is 3 years starting in 2023 until 2025 at a rate of USD500’000.00 per annum. FIFA will deduct a portion of our annual grant and allocate it towards this loan.
15 June 2023 - NW2028
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
(1). Whether the staff component of the (a) Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and (b) KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra have been affected by funding-related issues since the establishment of the orchestras; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, in what way. (2). whether the number of staff has been reduced since the establishment of each of the orchestras; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, (3). whether the Government is still providing the orchestras with full funding; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details. (4). whether artists are regarded as secondary to administration; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1). Regarding 1 & 2 above, it should be noted that the national Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture (DSAC) does not administer provincial and city orchestras; these orchestras do not report to DSAC and do not fall within the ambit of DSAC. Therefore, DSAC is not able to answer questions regarding operational matters of provincial and city orchestras.
(3). The government has never provided full funding for provincial and city orchestras.
(4). As explained in Mrs V van Dyk’s questions before, the policy of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and the National Arts Council is that 75% of the budget must be spent on artists-related matters and only up to 25% on operations including administration. So clearly, the government, by policy and law, does not regard artists as secondary to administration
15 June 2023 - NW2337
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
What is the estimate of the total annual additional costs that will be incurred by her department for moving from the 1% notch increase to the 1,5% notch increase in educator salaries?
Reply:
During negotiations following PSCBC Resolution No. 01 of 2018, extensive costing of various modes of implementation was undertaken. The final cost estimate of the mode finally implemented, was that the compensation of employees (CoE) baseline for provincial education departments was set to increase by R347 million, after the first leg of a 0.3% increment in 2018/19 with the increase in 2019/20 being R1094 million following the second leg increment completing the 0.5%.
15 June 2023 - NW2183
Nodada, Mr BB to ask the Minister of Basic Education to ask the Minister of Basic Education
(1) What total number of schools currently (a) have and (b) do not have access to (i) internet, (ii) WiFi connectivity and (iii) computer laboratories; (2) what (a) plans, (b) programmes are implemented to ensure that all schools have access to the (i) internet and (ii) computer laboratories and (c) are the targets for the completion of the specified plans; (3) what professional development programmes that aim to improve computer literacy for teachers are currently in operation?
Reply:
1. (a) Have access to
(i) connectivity and (ii) WiFi
A total of 80% of the public schools have access to Internet connectivity. The majority of these schools are connected using 3G/LTE that is not ideal for teaching and learning. As part of the Phase 1 of the SA Connect, a total of 594 have access to broadband connectivity.
(iii) computer laboratories
Each province has its own ICT strategy on how the schools are provided with ICT resources for teaching and learning. It should be noted that provinces such as Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, North West and Northern Cape have provided learners with ICT devices. It is based on this notion that provinces are gradually moving away from the fixed computer laboratories to mobile ICT solutions. Furthermore, provinces such as Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu Natal and Mpumalanga are providing schools with classroom technologies such as Smartboards and projectors.
(b) Do not have access
(i) Internet and (ii) WiFi
The remaining 20% of schools have no access to Internet connectivity.
(iii) computer laboratories
Provinces have developed their implementation plans, however, their allocated budget is not sufficient to make sure that all the public schools are provided with ICT resources
2. Plans to ensure that all schools have access to:
(i) internet and (ii) WiFi
The SA Connect Phase 2 was approved by Cabinet on 28 January 2022 for implementation. As part of this phase the government will provide 18036 public schools with Internet connectivity. It should be noted that these schools will be provided with limited data bundles. The Basic Education Sector has already submitted the names of the schools to Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
(iii) computer laboratories
Each province has its own ICT strategy on how the schools are provided with ICT resources for teaching and learning. The provincial implementation plans are linked to their voted budget that is allocated to provide schools with ICT resources as part of teaching and learning.
3. Professional Development Programmes that aim to improve computer literacy for teachers are currently in operation
The Basic Education Sector is training teachers on how to create and publish courses online using Moodle Learning Management System (LMS). The training is aimed at providing educators with instructional design skills, pedagogical and technological skills that are the building block in order to infuse ICT in the classroom. It should be noted that the computer literacy skills are embedded in the Moodle LMS training.
Furthermore, the Basic Education Sector is also training teachers with a just-in time professional development interventions on how to use the Open Educational resources that are loaded on their ICT devices and various online platforms.
15 June 2023 - NW2214
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the MINISTER OF SPORT, ARTS AND CULTURE:
(1) WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE PREMIER SOCCER LEAGUE AND THE SA FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION; (2) WHETHER ANY MEETINGS OF THE JOINT LIAISON COMMITTEE WERE HELD IN THE (A) 2021-22 AND (B) 2022-23 FINANCIAL YEARS; IF NOT, WHY NOT; IF SO, WHAT (I) NUMBER OF MEETINGS AND (II) WERE THE POINTS OF DISCUSSION IN VIEW OF THE PERIOD WHEN THREE OR FOUR YEARS WENT BY WITH ONLY A FEW MEETINGS BEING HELD ON THE INSISTENCE OF THE FORMER MINISTER DURING COVID-19 TO DISCUSS RESTARTING FOOTBALL AS COVID-19 INFECTION RATE DETERIORATED?
Reply:
- The PSL is an associate member of SAFA.
- The JLC meets on an ad-hoc basis to discuss matters of common interest between SAFA and the PSL. During the periods mentioned there were no matters of common interest that required the whole committee to meet, however during the same period there were a number of bilateral meetings between the two CEO’s and there were also a number of bilateral meetings between the president of SAFA and the Chairman of the PSL.
15 June 2023 - NW2123
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Notwithstanding the Republic’s high electricity connection rate compared to many other countries on the continent, what steps has the Government and/or Eskom taken to improve further access to electricity for our citizens, besides the free basic services allocation for indigent households?
Reply:
According to Information Received from Eskom:
Eskom and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) are continuing to provide electricity to communities that do not have electricity. The Eskom and DMRE Electrification Programme has progressed well in the last financial year and has exceeded its annual target achieving 102 590 connections. In addition, alternative electrification technology called microgrids is being used to electricity areas that are not easily accessible through the conventional grid such as Zwartkopdam in the Northern Cape to speed up access to electricity.
Furthermore, Eskom is undertaking the refurbishment of old infrastructure, substations, lines, and transformers including introduction of smart meters to improve and increase access to electricity for citizens.
Remarks: Approved / Not Approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
15 June 2023 - NW2114
Essack, Mr F to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
Whether, with reference to the announcement by the President of the Republic, Mr M C Ramaphosa, in the State of the Nation Address on 9 February 2023, that the National Treasury estimates that the Republic could achieve a potential saving of R27 billion in the medium term if overlapping mandates are dealt with, ineffective programmes are closed and entities consolidated where appropriate, his department has identified any non-viable state-owned enterprises that will be scrapped; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Presidential State-Owned Enterprises Council (PSEC) was appointed by the President to advise on the reforms of SOEs. PSEC is in the process of identifying SOEs that are to be consolidated, restructured and/or repurposed.
Any further announcements on the PSEC’s final recommendations will be made by the Presidency.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
15 June 2023 - NW2051
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Given the fact that the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) last held presidential elections in 2005, Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) elections in 2006, and local government elections in 2012, what steps are her department and/or the Government taking to encourage the PNA to embrace democracy and human rights in a region where only the state of Israel is known to hold regular, free, and fair elections?
Reply:
1) While the South African Government works closely with the Palestinian National Authority to address the challenges it faces with regard to the building and strengthening of Palestine’s democratic institutions, renewal of the Palestinian Authority’s mandate, holding of the pending elections, and the issue of human rights, the South African Government cannot ignore the reality that Palestine’s ability to hold a credible free and fair election in all its territories, including East Jerusalem, is negatively impacted by Israel’s inflexible positions on, inter alia, (i) refusal of Israel to allow Palestine to hold elections in East Jerusalem; (ii) the freezing of Jewish settlement construction on Palestinian land in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, which is designated as the future capital of an independent Palestinian state; (iii) the right of return of Palestinian refugees expelled when the State of Israel was established in 1948; (iv) refusal to agree to the 1967 borders as a territorial starting point for genuine peace negotiations; and, (v) reneging on commitments agreed when the Oslo Accords were signed in 1993, including the release of all pre-Oslo Palestinian prisoners.
2) South Africa consistently calls on UN Member States, the international community, as well as all political formations and parties in South Africa to support the efforts aimed at resolving the Israel-Palestine issue and to continue putting pressure on Israel as the occupying power to realise that relentless acts of repression, oppression and brutality serve only to undermine efforts directed at achieving a viable and sustainable Peace Plan that delivers Palestinian sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic viability, with sovereign equality between Palestine and Israel.
15 June 2023 - NW2228
Tambo, Mr S to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether there has been any diplomatic engagement with Uganda regarding the anti-homosexuality bill signed by President Yoweri Museveni and the implications and precedence the legislation has on the LGBTQI+ community in the continent; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
There has so far been no diplomatic engagement with Uganda regarding the Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023. South Africa is guided by its Constitutional principles that seeks to promote and respect the human rights of all people. This includes members of the LGBTQIA community. We are concerned about the developments in Uganda, which would impose severe criminal sanction on people because of their sexual orientation and gendered identities. We are equally concerned by the erosion of women’s human rights in large parts of the globe, including in the United States, where women’s reproductive rights are being curbed. Here again, we will use the appropriate diplomatic channels and fora to raise our concerns on these matters.
15 June 2023 - NW2029
Van Dyk, Ms V to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Whether he will furnish Mrs V van Dyk with fully audited financial statements of the (a)(i) Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra and (ii) KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra for the past five financial years and (b) Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra that was recently established; if not; why not; if so, on what date
Reply:
(a). The National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) does not administer provincial and city orchestras; these orchestras do not report to DSAC and do not fall within the ambit of DSAC. Therefore, DSAC is not able to answer questions regarding operational matters of provincial and city orchestras, including submitting any financial statements of these provincial and city orchestras.
(b). DSAC will provide the MNPO’s audited Annual Financial Statements (AFS) on or before 30 June 2023.
15 June 2023 - NW2312
Msane, Ms TP to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Whether she and/or the Government intends to declare the Ambassador of the United States of America a persona non grata based on two occasions that he communicated incorrect information to the South African public without following proper procedure, causing fear and doubt in the capabilities of the State; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, by what date?
Reply:
On 12 May 2023, the Department dèmarched US Ambassador Reuben E. Brigety for a meeting with Minister Naledi Pandor, where the Minister expressed South Africa’s deep disappointment and outrage about the manner in which Ambassador Brigety had convened a press conference on 11 May 2023, and levelled allegations regarding the sale of ammunition by South Africa to Russia, via the US sanctioned Russian naval vessel, Lady R. The Minister strongly condemned the actions of the Ambassador, which were particularly distasteful, especially so soon after the visit to Washington by the Special Envoys appointed by President Ramaphosa. The envoys were well received by all US interlocutors and discussions were productive.
In this context, the press conference held by the US Ambassador was counter to the spirit of the engagement with senior officials and politicians in Washington DC. The Minister informed the US Ambassador that South Africa respects all conventions on arms sales through the provisions outlined in the National Conventional Arms Control Act (NCACA), and if there was any violation of our laws, criminal charges would be laid if evidence is provided. Following the Minister’s address to Ambassador Brigety, he informed the senior officials that he would issue an unreserved public apology.
The President’s office reiterated that no concrete evidence has been provided to support the claims made by Ambassador Brigety, and that the investigation had been initiated before the Ambassador publicly announced his accusation. It was further indicated that the retired judge appointed to head the investigation, would use any evidence US intelligence officials could provide over the alleged sale of ammunition.
Following the meeting between Minister Pandor and US Ambassador Brigety and the telecon with Secretary of State Blinken, as well as the subsequent meeting between the ANC and Ambassador Brigety, wherein the latter reiterated his apology, it is not contemplated that any further steps will be taken with regard to his removal.
Regarding the terror alert from the US Embassy, the latter is of the view that their actions were in accordance with their duty/constitutional obligation to warn American citizens of credible threats to safeguard US Government employees and citizens. We had at the time voiced our strong objection to the way the alert had been issued.
15 June 2023 - NW2113
Essack, Mr F to ask the Minister of Public Enterprises
With reference to perceived policy inconsistencies and the overlapping of responsibilities between his department, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and now the Office of the Minister in The Presidency for Electricity, what are the details of the (a) major sticking points he identified in the allocation of responsibilities across the specified portfolios, which impact on the ability of Eskom to address the energy crisis of the Republic and (b) solutions will he put in place to resolve the specified sticking points?
Reply:
The President of the Republic of South Africa is empowered to appoint Ministers and also in terms of the powers vested in him in terms of section 97 of the Constitution may transfer to a member of the Cabinet any power or function to any member of Cabinet. The President exercised his powers to appoint the Minister of Electricity to carry out all powers and functions in section 34(1) of the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006 as a broader strategy to deal with load shedding.
In recent weeks, the President has gazetted the specific role of the Minister of Electricity (Annexure A)
The President is on record having stated that the delineation of powers and functions is directed at ensuring effective coordination and dedicated focus to deal more effectively and urgently with the electricity crisis.
In addition, the structure and operations of the National Electricity Crisis Committee ensure optimal coordination among all government entities.
Remarks: Reply: Approved / Not approved
Jacky Molisane PJ Gordhan, MP
Acting Director-General Minister
Date: Date:
15 June 2023 - NW2037
Abrahams, Ms ALA to ask the Minister of Social Development
What number of (a) permanent and (b) temporary work opportunities have been created by civil society organisations’ intervention development programmes supported by the National Development Agency (i) in each province and (ii) in each year in the period 1 January 2019 up to the latest specified date for which information is available?
Reply:
a) (a) & (b) The nature of the work opportunities created by civil society organisations supported by the NDA are project based for the duration of the project which is between 6 and 24 months. As a result, there are no permanent jobs created but work opportunities based on programme implementation.
Below is a report on the work opportunities created (i) by Province (ii) during the Financial Years 2019/20 – 2022/23:
15 June 2023 - NW2060
Mhlongo, Mr TW to ask the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
What amount are the (a) officials and (b) players of the national women’s teams in each sporting code paid monthly?
Reply:
The officials and players of the women national teams are not paid monthly, but are paid on an assignment basis, in other words, only when they come to camp.
The following rates apply:
- Team Doctor R3’500.00 per day
- Physiotherapist R2’500.00 per day
- Psychologist R1’500.00 per day
- Masseur R1’200.00 per day
- Physical trainer R2’000.00 per day
- Kit Assistant R950.00 per day
- Security R950.00 per day
- Assistant Coach R20’000.00 per camp (7 days)
- Goalkeeper Coach R15’000.00 per camp (7 days)
- Players daily allowances:
- R500.00 per day at home
- USD100.00 per day away
- Players bonuses
- R40’000.00 official match win
- R20’000.00 official match draw
- R20’000.00 friendly match win
- R10’000.00 friendly match draw