Questions and Replies

Reply:

1. South Africa continues to support MONUSCO (United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) through a deployment of uniformed and other personnel in a multi-dimensional peacekeeping which involves the military, police and the civilian components. MONUSCO’s strategic priorities are to protect civilians, stemming out of violence against women and children perpetuated by armed groups. The current mandate of MONUSCO will expire on 31 March 2017. The UN will provide guidance in terms of the extension of the mandate based on a situational analysis on the ground, particularly in the Eastern DRC and the political developments as the country prepares for the elections by end of 2017.

 

UNQUOTE

Reply:

Quote

(a) No, I have learned that SCOPA has referred the said case to the Hawks. The matter is still investigated by my Department and will release a report upon its conclusion.

(b) See (a) above.

Unquote

Reply:

(a) Name	(b) Offence
M Mjikeliso	Forbidden Person in terms of Aliens Act as well as Culpable Homicide
P Mukeni	Reckless or Negligent Driving
PS Sizani	Public Violence as well as Failure to comply with provisions of the Value Added Tax Act
MMN Ngoma	Prohibition of certain forms of Intimidation
N Mkoroana-Cita	All Motor Vehicles shall be registered and licenced unless contrary prescribed
BP Motloung	Reckless or Negligent Driving
S Ngombane	Riotous Assemblies Act – Person attends gathering after it was prohibited
SM Radebe	Occupy the driver’s seat of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor

(c) When an official has committed a crime a full vetting investigation is conducted in order to

determine if his/her security clearance must be withdrawn and if it is withdrawn the official will not be able to be posted again as a security clearance is a requirement for a posting.

(d) See (c) above.

 

Reply:

Quote

There has been no follow up resolution to that of the Human Rights Council on the said issue. South Africa has never voted against any resolution at the Human Rights Council or United Nations General Assembly on the thematic issue of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI). 

 

Unquote

Reply:

1. South Africa voted in favour of the resolution of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation on Occupied Palestine on 13 October 2016, in view of South Africa’s support for the longstanding right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and the achievement of their legitimate national aspirations that include freedom, independence, justice, peace and dignity in an independent Palestinian State. South Africa is also committed to the two State solution that is an essential part of achieving peace in the entire Middle East through the establishment of a free and sovereign Palestinian State co-existing side-by-side in peace and security with the State of Israel, based on the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

2. This resolution has no implications regarding other religious connections to Jerusalem as a holy site in that it affirms the importance of the old city of Jerusalem and its Walls for the three monotheistic religions. It seeks to safeguard the cultural heritage of Palestine and the distinctive character of East Jerusalem, in view of the persistent, systematic destruction of this heritage through numerous activities. It calls for an immediate end to these activities and for Israel to honour its obligations under UNESCO conventions, resolutions and decisions.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. No. Neither (a) an internal nor (b) an external forensic investigation pertaining to either (i) the department and/or (ii) entity were conducted during the said period. As a result, there is no report to that effect.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. Yes all signed their performance agreements

    (a) Nil

    (b) Not Applicable

    (c) Not Applicable

   (d) Not Applicable

       (i) April 2016

       (ii) Satisfactory Performance

2. NONE

   (a) And (b) Not Applicable

3. NONE

    (a) And (b) Not Applicable

UNQUOTE

Reply:

(a) At the time when the matter was reported to the Department, the official was placed on precautionary suspension pending outcome of the investigation. The investigation report recommended that one LRP be charged with misconduct for issuing fraudulent travelling documents to another person. Following the representations that the official made, the official’s precautionary suspension was withdrawn.

(a) Steps have been taken in that on 10 and 11 February 2015, a disciplinary hearing was conducted against the LRP and the chairperson found him guilty of the charges. The chairperson pronounced a sanction of dismissal against the LRP. The latter appealed against the dismissal sanction but the Appeal Authority confirmed the dismissal.

Unquote.

Reply:

(a) The Department International Relations and Cooperation has not spent any money on advertising for both the department and its entity, the African Renaissance Fund, on the following:

 (ii) Africa News Network 7 channel

 (iii) SA Broadcasting Corporation

(aa) Television channels

(bb) Radio stations

 (iii) National commercial radio stations

 (iv) Community stations

(aa) Television

(bb) Radio stations

Unquote.

Reply:

Mr KE Mahoai (Act DG):

1. Matric
2. Management Development Programme (certificate) – UNISA Graduate School of Business
3. MA – California State University Sacramento
4. BED – University of Limpopo
5. BA Paed – University of Limpopo

Mr CT Ramashau (CFO):

1. Matric
2. Bachelor of Commerce – University of Venda
3. University Education Diploma – University of Venda

Reply:

Quote:

(a) The department does not run development programme as its constitutional mandate is outward focused in implementing foreign policy.

(b) African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund, does not run development programme, suffice to say that, in the disbursement of funds for approved projects with regard to Humanitarian Assistance, emphasise is made to procure goods locally, in supporting SMME and small scale farmers.

Unquote.

Reply:

Quote:

(a)(i) The department has spent R 4,094,600.01 on advertising in 2015-16 financial year.

• Advertising: Promotional Items & Marketing R 3,343,401.15
• Advertising: Recruitment R 528,711.08
• Advertising: Tenders R 222,487.78

It should be noted that the expenditure on advertising include procurement of promotional items that are mainly used by missions which is classified as advertising according to Standard Chart of Accounts(SCOA) as well as advertising cost for recruitment and tenders.

(a)(ii) The entity (African Renaissance International Cooperation Fund) does not have and operational budget, all operational costs are covered by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

(b)(i) The department budgeted R6,417,475.00 for advertising in 2016-17 financial year for procurement of missions’ promotional items, adverts for recruitment as well as adverts for tenders and

(b)(ii) The entity (African Renaissance International Cooperation Fund) does not have an operational budget, all operational costs are covered by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Unquote.

Reply:

1. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has taken note of the arrest of the two individuals for their alleged religious believes. We further noted that one of them has since been released. Considering that, this is an internal matter in a sovereign state; our government therefore is constrained by international conventions on the conduct of diplomatic practice.

2. South Africa like all sovereign states will be cautious not to be seen interfering in internal matters.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

 

1. Yes, the Department received the request on 4 January 2016.

2) a) A decision was made on 12 January 2016.

b) The decision was to recall the employee concerned and not to waive his Diplomatic Immunity.

c) The decision was based on the provisions of Articles 29 and 31 the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961 quoted as follows:

Article 29 of the Convention provides:

“The person of a diplomatic agent shall be inviolable. He shall not be liable to any form of arrest or detention. The receiving State shall treat him with due respect and shall take all appropriate steps to prevent any attack on his person, freedom or dignity.”

4.1.2 Article 31 states:

“1. A diplomatic agent shall enjoy immunity from the criminal jurisdiction of the receiving State. He shall also enjoy immunity from its civil and administrative jurisdiction, except in the case of:

(a) a real action relating to private immovable property situated in the territory of the receiving State, unless he holds it on behalf of the sending State for the purposes of the mission;

(b) an action relating to succession in which the diplomatic agent is involved as executor, administrator, heir or legatee as a private person and not on behalf of the sending State;

(c) an action relating to any professional or commercial activity exercised by the diplomatic agent in the receiving State outside his official functions.

3) a) Yes the Department has already conducted an investigation, and the Report of the investigation has recommended that formal disciplinary proceedings be instituted against the employee concerned;

b) The employee concerned has been officially notified that disciplinary proceedings are going to be instituted against him. Disciplinary proceedings against the employee concerned have not yet taken place because the Department is still in the process of drafting and formulating charges and compliance with all other relevant labour law requirements.

Reply:

(a) 5

(b)

DESIGNATION	SALARY GRADE	NAME
Ambassador	13	Ambassador QA Zondo
1st Secretary: Political	10	Ms BSM Mepha
2nd Secretary: Political	8	Mr ZHM Zondi
1st Secretary: CS	10	Ms MC Mashishi
3rd Secretary: CS	7	Ms EM Nkwane

Reply:

1) (a)(i) No, there was no funding request received in 2013-14 from any political party

(ii) No, there was no funding request received in 2014-15 from any political party

(iii) No, there was no funding request received in 2015-16 from any political party

(b) Not applicable

2) (a)(i) No, there was no funding provided to any political part in 2013-14

(ii) No, there was no funding provided to any political part in 2014-15

(iii) No, there was no funding provided to any political part in 2015-16

(b) Not applicable

UNQUOTE.

Reply:

1. (aa)Yes, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation has taken steps in an effort to stop the execution of the South African citizen in Malaysia. The Minister wrote a personal letter to her Malaysian counterpart in which she requested the Malaysian Government to reconsider the death penalty handed down and to commute the sentence to an appropriate prison sentence.

(bb) No, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation have not taken steps to secure a transfer or exchange agreement with the government of Malaysia. The mandate to consider entering into such agreements falls within the ambit of the Department of Justice and Correctional Services.

(2) The position of Government is that South Africa has abolished the death penalty and that the South African Constitution does not mete out capital punishment and that the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation should therefore, in instances of South African citizens who receive death sentences in foreign states, approach her counterpart in that state and request the foreign state to reconsider the death penalty handed down and to commute the sentence to an appropriate prison sentence. The outcome of the subsequent decision by the other sovereign state needs to be respected irrespective of South Africa’s position.

 

Reply:

1. South Africa and Rwanda enjoy good political, economic and social co-operation, as evidenced by the existence of over 20 bilateral Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding.

2. It will be recalled that, following the third assassination attempt on a Rwandan refugee in March 2014, the Department of International Relations and Co-operation declared four diplomats serving at the Rwandan High Commission to be persona non grata. The South African government through its security agencies is still following up on the matter as we view of this in a serious light.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. South Africa has placed no restrictions on the places where observers are sent and the number of observers. It has to be noted that as a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), South Africa deploys observers to SADC Member States as part of SADC Election Observation Missions (SEOMs) in line with the Revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections adopted in July 2015. The revised Principles and Guidelines make provision for the SADC Secretariat to determine the number of observers to be deployed to each Member State holding elections. The number of observers required is determined by the political context, geographical size and financial considerations.

As Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and during 2014-2015, South Africa led SEOMs to Botswana (October 2014), Mozambique (October 2014), Namibia (November 2014), Mauritius (December 2014), Zambia (January 2015), and Lesotho (February 2015).

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. I will not agree with the assertion that South Africa has ignored the preservation of the manuscripts in Timbuktu, Mali. Following the January 2012 political and security instability in northern Mali which resulted in the Ahmed Baba Institute Library being occupied by islamists/terrorist, causing huge damage to the building, most of the manuscripts were rescued and relocated to a safe place in Bamako, Mali. South Africa under the leadership of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the Department of Arts and Culture continues to support the Preservation of the Timbuktu Manuscript in Mali. For example, in 2015, the African Rennaisance and International Cooperation Fund granted an amount of R10 million towards this project.

Further, South Africa has seconded an expert from the Department of Arts and Culture to Bamako, Mali, to assist with the preservation of the manuscripts and assess the conditions underwhich they are stored. Currently, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the Department of Arts and Culture are working on renewing the Memorandum of Understanding that regulates this matter following the lapse of the initial one. As soon as this process is completed, the project to refurbish the damaged building will continue, subject to security situation.

2. There is absolutely no truth that the fourth Administration has no resolve to pursue the African Renaissance. For the past seven years, this Administration has played a leading role in pursuance of African renewal through several continental programmes such as the Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative (PICI), African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crises (ACIRC), ongoing implementation of NEPAD, contribution to peacemaking and peacekeeping on the Continent, etc.

The adoption of the vision of the AU Agenda 2063 and its first 10 Year Implimentation Plan, is now the cornerstone of the African Renaissance.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

Government is not only working with international partners and stakeholders regarding the “siege of Gaza and push for a rapprochement between Gaza and Israel”, but to address the full spectrum of challenges between Palestine and Israel, including those in the occupied territories and Jerusalem.The South African Government interacts on this issue with the international community in many structures, including the United Nations, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the European Union (EU), the Commonwealth, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and BRICS.

In addition this issue also forms part of discussions in our bilateral relations.This process of engaging international partners and stakeholders is further facilitated through the appointment in 2014, of the Special Envoys for the Middle East Peace Process, former Minister Skweyiya and Former Deputy Minister Pahad. Since their appointment, the Special Envoys have visited Palestine, Israel and neighbouring countries to convey President Zuma’s grave concern over the then escalating violence, the civilian displacement and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

More recently visits included high-level discussions to understand the impact of conflict in the broader Middle East region on the Middle East Peace Process and to assess a possible South African contribution. The Envoys intend briefing all structures of Parliament as soon as the necessary arrangements can be made.Similarly, DIRCO will also brief Parliamentary structures.

 

UNQUOTE

Reply:

(a) The Department (DIRCO) does not charge other Government Departments for the usage of the State Protocol Lounges by Ministers.

The Department (DIRCO) does not pay for any chauffeur services at the Airport for Ministers.

Reply:

	Minister
(1)	No
(a)	Not applicable
(b)	Not applicable
(c)	Not applicable
(d)	Not applicable

	(a)spouse	(b)children	(c)close family
(2)	No	No	No
(i)	Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable
(ii)	Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable
(iii)	Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable
(iv)	Not applicable	Not applicable	Not applicable

Reply:

1. No.

South Africa enjoys a strong cordial relationship with the US. Various channels of communication are open for both sides should they see the need to discuss any issue. The two Ministers normally do so under the auspices of Strategic Dialogue which they co-chair.

2. No.

 

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. South Africa is concerned about the security situation in Burundi and that the Government has called for an inclusive dialogue that would include all the relevant stakeholders. As a former mediator in Burundi, South Africa supports the EAC-led mediation and remains ready and will continue to support the people of Burundi to achieve stability and development.
2. There is no African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) decision not to intervene in Burundi.
3. South Africa is a member of the AUPSC and therefore South Africa was part of the AU Council that took a decision not to deploy the African Prevention and Protection Mission in Burundi (MAPROBU) because it was felt it would be premature to send such a force to Burundi. Instead, the AU Council decided to lend its support to the political dialogue process led by the President of Uganda, hence the decision to dispatch an AU High Level delegation led by South Africa to engage the Government of Burundi and all relevant stakeholders on the need to start the inclusive political dialogue, end violence and facilitate the return of refugees.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

No. The Department is in the process of implementing the new organisational structure approved during the 2015/16 financial year. Therefore posts to be frozen as a result of the cost containment measures announced by Cabinet are still to be determined.

Reply:

(i) The number of times her Department awarded the contracts to the companies indirectly or directly owed by certain persons: No awards were made to certain persons.

(aaa) 2012/2013: None

(bbb) 2013/2014: None

(ccc) 2014/2015: None

(ii) The amount that her Department spent on contracts awarded to the companies indirectly or directly owed by certain persons: No money spent as there were no awards made to certain persons.

(aaa) 2012/2013: None

(bbb) 2013/2014: None

(ccc) 2014/2015: None

Reply:

(i) The number of times her Department used advertising space in The New Age were as follows:

(aaa) 2012/2013: None

(bbb) 2013/2014: None

(ccc) 2014/2015: None

Thus no advertising space was used on The New Age.

(ii) The amount that her Department spent advertising space in The New Age were as follows:

(aaa) 2012/2013: None

(bbb) 2013/2014: None

(ccc) 2014/2015: None

No money spent as there was no advertising space used in The New Age

Reply:

a) Yes, Government through various Departments has continued to engage the Government of Mali to seek its assistance in securing the release of Mr Stephen McGowan.

(b) (i) Government will continue its Diplomatic efforts through its Bilateral Operations and in Multilateral Fora to drum up support for and seek assistance in securing the release of Mr Stephen McGowan.

(ii) It is not possible to set timeframes regarding the outcome of efforts being employed to seek the release of Mr Stephen McGowan.

Reply:

(i) The percentage of the total procurement that her Department spent on SMME and Co-operatives from April 2015 up to latest date is as follows:

a) DIRCO

(i) SMME : 22.90%

(ii) Co-operatives : 6.65%

b) None

 

Reply:

1. No contact has been made with my Department by an organ of state in the United States of America in respect of the on-going investigation and indictment into allegations of corruption in respect of the 2010 Fifa World Cup Soccer tournament. However, my Department contacted the US Embassy on 2 June 2015 to request (a) a copy of the indictment issued by the US Attorney General regarding bribery allegations against the South African Government and/or its officials in the awarding of the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa and (2) for the US Attorney General to share with the South African Government any information, evidence and related aspects of its investigation of the allegations.
2. Furthermore, at the request of my Department, the South African Ambassador to Washington, Ambassador Mninwa Mahlangu requested a meeting with the US Department of Justice. On 26 October 2015, the Mission informed the Department that the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv Shaun Abrahams and the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv Nomgcobo Jiba were scheduled to arrive in Washington DC on 26 October 2015 at the invitation of the FBI to discuss the bribery allegations against the South African Government and/or its officials in the awarding of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
3. The National Prosecuting Authority is the South African authority that is handling this issue.

UNQUOTE

 

Reply:

Quote:

1. Yes, funding is provided to a foreign Embassies
2. & (ii) The Funding is provided to the Embassy of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic as well as the Palestine Embassy
3. The amount paid by the country to the Embassy of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic is as follows:
4. 2012-13: R 1 464 000
5. 2013-14: R 1 610 000
6. 2014-15: R 1 610 000
7. The amount paid by the country to the Palestine Embassy is as follows:
8. 2012-13: R 1 393 000
9. 2013-14: R 1 393 000
10. 2014-15: R 1 393 000

UNQUOTE

Reply:

In response to (1), yes South Africa did vote on the 30th of October 2015 during the United Nations General Assembly 4th Committee’s meeting on the draft decision A/C.4/70/L.7 entitled “Increase in the membership of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space”.

In response to (2), the specific decision as well as background information on the United Nations General Assembly 4th Committee issues, is available to the public and can be found on the United Nations website at: http://www.un.org/en/ga/fourth/70/documentation.shtml

In response to (3), a recorded vote was requested during which South Africa voted in the affirmative. The voting process called specifically for the inclusion of all applicants namely: Qatar, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Kuwait, and Israel. Furthermore, South Africa was a part of the general consensus which reflected 117 Member States voting “yes” with, 21 “abstentions” and 1 voting “no”.

Reply:

1. Since 2000, the South African government has been in discussion with the government of Zimbabwe with regard to the issue of land reform and how it affected South African farmers in Zimbabwe. However the discussions were constrained by the absence of an investment protection mechanism between the two countries. The Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement (BIPPA) was signed in 2009 in Harare and came into force in 2010, but Article 11 thereof, does not provide for retrospective application. The South African government, none the less continues to engage the government of Zimbabwe to intercede on behalf of South African farmers within the provisions of the International conventions and applicable South African Legal Instruments.
2. The available steps for compensation include provision for the matter to be negotiated between the affected farmer and the relevant Zimbabwean Authorities. The applicable Zimbabwean law in this regard will be the Acquisition of Farm Equipment and Material Act of 2004, which stipulates that compensation is only paid for improvements on the land and equipment.
3. The steps that the Department takes upon receipt of information that South Africans’ rights have been infringed, is to engage diplomatically with the relevant Zimbabwean authorities, in accordance with the provisions of international conventions and applicable South African legal instruments

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1(a) Indeed, the South African government subscribes fully to the undertaking that was made in March 2002 to ensure the safety and security of all its citizens, their property as well as South African-owned companies operating in foreign countries.

(b) It is our responsibility as Government, to protect South African citizens and their properties in foreign countries. And, we shall continue to carry out this responsibility.

2 We would not agree with the assertion that there was lack of assistance from Government on the matter of the South African farmers in Zimbabwe. Since 2000, the South African government has engaged the government of Zimbabwe regarding the issue of land reform as it affected South African farmers. Our engagements were constrained though by the absence of a legal instrument such as the investment protection agreement between the two countries. The South African government nevertheless continued to engage the government of Zimbabwe to intercede on behalf of South African farmers within the provisions of the International diplomatic conventions and applicable South African Legal Instruments.

3. The South African Government will continue to engage diplomatically with relevant Zimbabwean authorities, in accordance with the provisions of international conventions and applicable South African Legal instruments. Further, recourse for compensation is available under the applicable Zimbabwean law, the Acquisition of Farm Equipment and Material Act of 2004, which stipulates that compensation is only paid for improvements on the land and equipment. The matter of compensation remains open for discussion and negotiation between the affected farmer and relevant Zimbabwean authorities. As Government, we have highlighted this recourse to the South African farmers. Instrument between DTI and counterpart.

4. No, the South African Government is currently not considering drafting any additional legislation on this matter. We believe that the affected South African farmers can pursue the existing recourse.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

(a) Red tape in the department of international relations and cooperation is seen as an obstructive bureaucratic routine or procedure that unduly hinders an official action.

(b) Specific interventions to reduce red tape in the department are to emphasise the application of SMART principles (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) in the execution of its duties, roles and responsibilities.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. (a) Please find enclosed (Annexure A) the list of South African Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who participated at the founding meeting that was held from 15-16 July 2005.

(b) Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives

1. Membership is open to former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who are retired from public

1. (a) No

(b) (i) No; (ii) No; (iii) No. However, it should be noted that on some occasions when specialist knowledge or institutional memory is required, the Department has, and will continue to, call upon former Ambassadors to assist on a particular issue, whether they are members of the Association or not. On such occasions, the normal consultancy rates are used for remuneration and the necessary assistance is provided to have these specialists participate in the requested role at DIRCO.

1. (a) The main objective is to create a platform for former Heads of Missions to network and serve as a resource to the Department of International Relations and Co-Operation, and other government departments that have international relations responsibilities; to work with the provinces, especially the offices of the Premiers through their provincial officials, as well as local governments regarding relationships with their counterparts in foreign countries.

It will further offer its members’ diverse, extensive experience and institutional memory to key and relevant stakeholders and partners to promote awareness of, stimulate discussion and deepen the understanding of international relations and diplomacy, and support the institutions responsible for implementing South Africa’s foreign policy.

It will also create opportunities to exchange views with experts, academics, scholars of international relations sand other with an interest in diplomacy and foreign policy.

It is hope that is will also mentor young diplomats to achieve best practice in the execution of their roles and responsibilities.

1. (b) The association is an independent non-profit organisation.

UNQUOTE

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

FOUNDING DOCUMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION OF FORMER SOUTH AFRICAN AMBASSADORS, HIGH COMMISSIONERS AND CHIEF REPRESENTATIVES

1. BACKGROUND

Many countries have established entities to tap into the institutional knowledge of their previous high-ranking diplomats and envoys after they have left specific posts and government service. The establishment of such a body in South Africa is a ground-breaking development that will enhance and uplift the country’s status internationally. It will put South Africa on a par with others and help towards raising awareness and understanding of the complex issues confronting the practice of international relations and diplomacy. In doing so it will draw on members’ diverse expertise, experience and institutional memory to enrich the formulation of foreign policy and underscore the country’s efforts to be a respectable member in the family of nations.

2. VISION

To contribute to the pursuit of South Africa’s national interest to achieve a prosperous, united, non-racist, non-sexist, democratic and peaceful South Africa and Africa, and for a just and better world.

3. MISSION

The Association seeks to maximize usage of its resources regarding the conduct of its foreign relations and the broad attainment of South Africa’s interests and foreign policy objectives.

4. OBJECTIVES:

The main objective is to create a platform for former Heads of Missions to network and serve as a resource to:

• Have a constructive relationship with the Department of International Relations and Co-Operation, and other government departments that have international relations responsibilities; to work with the provinces, especially the offices of the Premiers through their provincial officials, as well as local governments regarding relationships with their counterparts in foreign countries.

• Offer its members’ diverse, extensive experience and institutional memory to key and relevant stakeholders and partners to promote awareness of, stimulate discussion and deepen the understanding of international relations and diplomacy, and support the institutions responsible for implementing South Africa’s foreign policy.

• Provide assistance to the Presidency, for example, by serving as Special Envoys.

• Create opportunities to exchange views with experts, academics, scholars of international relations sand other with an interest in diplomacy and foreign policy.

• Analyse global, regional and bilateral political, economic, peace and security, social and cultural trends in foreign relations and diplomacy.

• Mentor young diplomats to achieve best practice in the execution of their roles and responsibilities.

• Foster relations with relevant South African, regional and international organizations.

5. VALUES

Patriotism

Loyalty

Integrity

Professionalism

6. PROGRAMMES

The Association will fulfil its mission through programmes designed to educate, inform and interact with the public about key foreign policy issues affecting the national interest. Such programmes will include but not be limited to:

• Conferences, ambassadors’ fora and other means of public interaction around the country to enhance the public understanding of international issues affecting the national interest;

• Mentorships that foster and develop young students, particularly in international relations;

• An orientation programme for Heads of Mission;

• Availing its members to support the Presidency including, for example to serve as Special Envoys or support staff;

• Providing its membership and associates with information so they can fulfil the Association’s mandate.

7. FUNDING

The Association is a non-profit organization funded by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and other sources.

8. STRUCTURE

The Association is led by an Executive Committee to be elected by its members on a simple majority and by a show of hands for periods of two years.

The Executive Committee consists of a Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, plus three additional committee members elected for periods of two years.

The Executive Committee is further mandated to bring about appropriate administrative and support structures within the necessary and appropriate legal framework.

The association elected the following as an Executive:

• Chairperson - Amb G Nene

• Deputy Chairperson -Amb. J Bardil

• Secretary - Amb F Land

• Treasurer -Amb M Moopeloa

• Additional Members

Amb W Nhalpo

Amb. M Rakwena

Amb. T Skweyiya

9. MEMBERSHIP AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Membership is open to former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives who are retired from public service and who meet its criteria and annual fee requirements, which will also be applied to any associate membership that may be established.

10. SYMBOLS.

The Association will make use of a symbol and logo for identification.

Annexure A

List of Ambassadors
	Initials & Surname	Designation
1	Abba Omar Y	Ambassador
2	Chikane M	Ambassador
3	Chiliza TH	Ambassador
4	Coovadia I	Ambassador
5	Crewe-Brown L	High Commissioner
6	De Swart I	Ambassador
7	Dietrichsen PR	Ambassador
8	Dr Kekana I	Ambassador
9	Funde E	Ambassador
10	Gantso	Ambassador
11	Jacobs D	Ambassador
12	Janse van Rensburg JG	Ambassador
13	January-Bardill N	Ambassador
14	January-McLean T	Ambassador
15	Khasu MJ	Ambassador
16	Kilian J	Ambassador
17	Kotane J	Ambassador
18	Kotane SS	Ambassador
19	Kubheka TMN	Ambassador
20	Land F	Ambassador
21	Lujabe-Rankoe T	Ambassador
22	Mabude NI	High Commissioner
23	Mabuza L	Ambassador
24	Magugu Z	Ambassador
25	Manley AL	Ambassador
26	Maqetuka M	Ambassador
27	Matabane	Ambassador
28	Mathoma TP	Ambassador
29	Mavimbela DJ	Ambassador
30	Mazibuko-skweyiya	Ambassador
31	Mbatha KZ	Ambassador
32	Mdlalose F	Ambassador
33	Meyer DN	Ambassador
34	Mfenyana S	Ambassador
35	Mngqikana LMS	Ambassador
36	Modise BIL	Ambassador
37	Moloi S	Ambassador
38	Mongalo ALCK	Ambassador
39	Moolla M	Ambassador
40	Moopela	Ambassador
41	Msimang	Ambassador
42	Nene SG	Ambassador
43	Ngakane LD	Ambassador
44	Ngubane BS	Ambassador
45	Nhlapo WAW	Ambassador
46	Olivier GC	Ambassador
47	Pekane LST	Ambassador
48	Phologane	Ambassador
49	Pitso J	Ambassador
50	Rakwena M	Ambassador
51	Roux JP	Ambassador
52	Saloojee YM	Ambassador
53	Schoombie N	Ambassador
54	Shaik M	Ambassador
55	Sigwela EM	Ambassador
56	Sisulu BR	Ambassador
57	Sisulu SM	Ambassador
58	Skweyiya ZST	Ambassador
59	Tsheole N	Ambassador
60	Visser TG	Ambassador
61	Wheeler TF	Ambassador
62	Zazeraj VJ	Ambassador
63	Zulu VT	Ambassador

Reply:

No;

The Department does not meet the 2% Employment Equity target at present.

The Department acknowledges that achieving disability equity is imperative to the transformational agenda set by the Constitution (1996), the White Paper on Affirmative Action (1998) and other subsequent legislations.

Employees with Disabilities make up to 1.4 % (percent) of employees in the Department. The low representation of person with disabilities in the Department emanate from the rule that disability disclosure is done on a voluntary basis.

Concreted efforts are been made to allow persons with disabilities to apply for position in the Department and to apply for positions in the Department and encourage those that are within to disclose their disabilities status in order to meet or exceed the required 2% targets.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

(1). Yes. South Africa and Iran are in the process of concluding a Modality Framework Agreement for the establishment of a Structured Dialogue Forum specifically focused on Human Rights. Once concluded, the Dialogue Forum will convene regularly and constitute a platform for both countries to hold frank discussions on issues and concerns regarding domestic human rights.

(2) The Dialogue Forum will allow the two countries to engage on all issues of human rights as contained in the United Nations Charter on Human Rights. South Africa and Iran already discuss human rights issues within the Joint Commission and the Dialogue Forum will provide a further platform for deeper engagement and cooperation.

(3) (a) During the 12th Joint Commission between South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran held in Tehran on 10 to 11 May 2015 the two sides agreed to strengthen their bilateral cooperation in the field of human rights in international fora among others. My Department, together with our Iranian counterparts are in the process of finalising a Modality Framework Agreement to establish a Structured Dialogue Forum.

(b). Not applicable.

UNQUOTE

Reply:

1. None

UNQUOTE

Reply:

a) Hotels in and around Sandton area were used

b) The following conference venues were utilised:

1. The O R Tambo Conference Centre
2. The Sandton International Convention Centre

 

UNQUOTE

Reply:

REPLY:

1(a) The total amount her department spend on air travel between Gauteng and Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the 2014-15 financial year were as follows:

• 2014/2015: R 439 893.90

1(b) the total number of trips that were undertaken was as follows;

• 2014/2015: 75 Trips

 

2(a) the total amount that her department spent on accommodation was as follows:

• 2014/2015: R 210 542.21

2(b) the total amount that her department spent car rental in Cape Town for employees attending Parliament business in the specified financial year were as follows

• 2014/2015: R 115 795.21

END

Reply:

The Department of International Relations and Co-operation does not extend invitations to Presidents.

 

 

END

Reply:

Reply:

(1) (a)NAMES	(1) (b)DESIGNATIONS	ORGANISATIONS
AMB M Nkosi	Ambassador	Belgium and Luxembourg; and Mission to the European Union
Amb AK Bramdeo	Ambassador	Seconded by African Union to the European Union, Brusells
Mr E Beck	Minister Plenipotentiary	Belgium and Luxembourg; and Mission to the European Union
Amb JNK Mamabolo	Ambassador	SA Permanent Mission in United Nations
Mr EL Mminele	Minister Plenipotentiary	SA Permanent Mission in United Nations
Amb TJ Seokolo	Ambassador	Vienna, Austria and Permanent Mission to the UN & International Organisations
Ms L Greyling	Minister Plenipotentiary	Vienna, Austria and Permanent Mission to the UN & International Organisations
Amb AS Minty	Ambassador	Geneva, Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the UN and other International Organisations
Ms NP Notutela	Minister Plenipotentiary	Geneva, Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the UN and other International Organisations
Amb X Carim	Ambassador	World Trade Organisation
Amb X Mqulwana,	High Commissioner	Nairobi, High Commissioner to Kenya and SA Representative to the UN Habitat
Amb NN Ntshinga	Ambassador	Addis Ababa, Ambassador to Ethiopia and SA Representative to the African Union( AU)

(2) Yes. These Ambassadors and Senior Diplomats serve on concurrent representation at no extra remuneration.

 

Ambassador Bramdeo is seconded to the African Union as the AU Representative to the EU in Brussels as per request of the former Chairperson of the AU, Mr Jean Ping.

 

(3) The appointment process undergone by all representatives abroad is done in terms of Section 84 (2) (i) of the Constitution, 1996, which provides: “that the President has the powers entrusted by the Constitution and legislation, appointing ambassadors, plenipotentiaries, and diplomatic and consular representatives”.

 

(4) No. The appointment process is effected through the Constitution and does not prescribe academic qualifications and experience.

Reply:

1(a) The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation tabled Cabinet Memorandum No 14 of 2012 to Cabinet to submit proposals for the Implementation Plan to prepare for the Fifth BRICS Summit, which South Africa would host on 27 March 2014. Cabinet approved this Implementation Plan that included the establishment of i) a BRICS Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to provide strategic direction to the preparations for the hosting of the Fifth BRICS Summit ii) an Inter-departmental Technical Senior Officials’ Team (IDTSOT) to spearhead preparations for hosting the Fifth BRICS Summit and iii) an Inter-Departmental Logistics Committee (IDLC) to facilitate preparations for hosting the Fifth BRICS Summit. President JG Zuma decided to appoint 15 members of Cabinet as well as the Premier of Kwazulu-Natal as members of the BRICS Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC). The members of the IMC that were appointed included: Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation (Chairperson), Transport, Energy, Police, Communications, Finance, Mineral Resources, Trade and Industry, Public Enterprises, Economic Development, Science and Technology, Home Affairs, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, State Security, Defence and Military Veterans, Minister in the Presidency: Performance Monitoring, Evaluation and Administration and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal. The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation was appointed as Chairperson of the IMC. The IMC also considered and adopted Terms of Reference for its functioning.

 

A recommendation to review its mandate was considered at the 9th BRICS IMC on 4 July 2014. The IMC concluded that the BRICS Forum had become a strategic global engagement, which is central to initiatives to spearhead global governance reforms as well as the transition to a new global order, and it would therefore require continued strategic guidance from the side of the Executive. The Chairperson of the IMC obtained approval from the President for the IMC to continue to convene at a reduced scale, at least bi-annually, of which one meeting will precede the annual Summit to provide strategic guidance to preparations. The members of the reconstituted IMC that were appointed included: Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation (Chairperson), Energy, Finance, Trade and Industry, Economic Development, Science and Technology, State Security, and Higher Education and Training.

1(b) The mandate of the IMC initially was i) to provide strategic direction to South Africa’s tenure as BRICS Chairship for 2013 ii) to host all BRICS agreed sectoral mechanisms and to provide leadership during its Chairship iii) to ensure the implementation of the EThekwini Declaration and Action Plan and iv) to effectively communicate to the South African public, SADC and the African Continent the value of BRICS in advancing the African Agenda.

The mandate of the reconstituted IMC was aligned to the BRICS endorsed Terms of Reference of the BRICS Chairship, which BRICS adopted in 2013.

The additional mandate of the IMC during Chairship and as incoming Chair was highlighted, notably ensuring strategic leadership during SA’s tenure as BRICS Chair in close consultation with other members and to ensure implementation of Summit Declarations and Action Plan. The mandate of the incoming Chairship entails coordination in respect of the next annual Summit in consultation with all South African stakeholders, e.g. to select the Summit theme, propose the Summit programme/agenda and prepare draft Summit Declaration and Action Plan.

2(a) The BRICS IMC has convened on 12 occasions since its establishment in September 2012.

2(b) The most salient issues discussed during these meetings, include, inter alia, a briefing by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation on the most recent substance related developments in BRICS and South Africa’s position on these issues and briefings by partner Departments on the various tracks in which they participate, including amongst others, National Treasury, Trade and Industry, Higher Education and Training, Science and Technology and State Security. Depending on the issues that require attention and guidance, the agenda may vary. It focuses on the implementation of annual Summit Declarations and Action Plans notably input for high level meetings. The minutes of the meetings are classified.

 

Additional items discussed during meetings of the reconstituted IMC, included a concept document of the African Regional Centre (ARC), the draft Terms of Reference of the New Development Bank African Regional Centre (NDB ARC) Local Steering Committee and the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership (which was adopted by the Leaders of the Seventh BRICS Summit).

UNQUOTE

Reply:

Reply:

(1) (a)NAMES	(1) (b)DESIGNATIONS	ORGANISATIONS
AMB M Nkosi	Ambassador	Belgium and Luxembourg; and Mission to the European Union
Amb AK Bramdeo	Ambassador	Seconded by African Union to the European Union
Mr E Beck	Minister Plenipotentiary	Belgium and Luxembourg; and Mission to the European Union
Amb JNK Mamabolo	Ambassador	SA Permanent Mission in United Nations
Mr EL Mminele	Minister Plenipotentiary	SA Permanent Mission in United Nations
Amb TJ Seokolo	Ambassador	Vienna, Austria and Permanent Mission to the UN & International Organisations
Ms L Greyling	Minister Plenipotentiary	Vienna, Austria and Permanent Mission to the UN & International Organisations
Amb AS Minty	Ambassador	Geneva, Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the UN and other International Organisations
Ms NP Notutela	Minister Plenipotentiary	Geneva, Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the UN and other International Organisations
Amb X Carim	Ambassador	World Trade Organisation

(2) Yes.

NAMES	DESIGNATIONS	MISSION LEVEL
AMB M Nkosi	Ambassador	14
Mr E Beck	Minister Plenipotentiary	13
Amb JNK Mamabolo	Ambassador	14
Mr EL Mminele	Minister Plenipotentiary	13
Amb TJ Seokolo	Ambassador	14
Ms L Greyling	Minister Plenipotentiary	13
Amb AS Minty	Ambassador	14
Ms NP Notutela	Minister Plenipotentiary	13
Amb X Carim	Ambassador	14
*Amb AK Bramdeo	Ambassador	13

*Ambassador Bramdeo is remunerated partly by the AU and partly by the Department.

(3) The appointment process undergone by all reprsentatives abroad is done in terms of Section 84 (2) (i) of the Constitution, 1996, which provides: “that the President has the powers entrusted by the Constitution and legislation, appointing ambassadors, plenipotentiaries, and diplomatic and consular representatives”.

Ambassador Bramdeo, an official of the Department, is seconded by the AU to the EU.

(4) No. The appointment process is effected through the Constitution and does not prescribe academic qualifications and experience.

Reply:

(a) The amount that the Department spent on newspaper subscription in each month was as follows:

(aaa) 2011/2012: R 164 092 per month

(bbb) 2012/2013: R 186 486 per month

(CCC) 2013/2014: R 155 975 per month

(bb) 2014/2015: R 112 122 per month

(b) The number of newspapers ordered on each day of the week was as follows:

(i) 201112012: 792

2012/2013: 808

2013/2014: 762

(ii) 2014/2015: 485

Attached please find here: Table of financial years

Reply:

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation did not spend any funds on advertising in the Sowetan and the Daily Sun newspapers during the 2012/2013, 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 financial years.

Reply:

Between, 1 January 2013 and 31 July 2014, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation has spent funds on advertising as appended hereunder:

• Departmental Campaign promotion/advertising : R 980 179.16

ADVERTISING: 1 JANUARY 2013 TO 31 JULY 2014
Placement Date:	Media:	Medium	Amount:
14 February 2013	SA PRESS ASSOCIATION	Print	60 000.00
19 February 2013	THOBELA FM	Radio	114 000.00
22 April 2013	HIGHBURY SAFIKA MEDIA	Print	16 092.00
11 June 2013	SABC	Radio	142 614.00
26 June 2013	HIGHBURY SAFIKA MEDIA	Print	54 628.80
27 June 2013	PICASSO HEADLINE	Print	23 940.00
28 June 2013	ALL MEDIA AFRICA INTERNATIONAL	Print	47 000.00
28 June 2013	HIGHBURY SAFIKA MEDIA	Print	54 628.80
10 October 2013	KAYA FM D8301	Radio	200 000.00
10 October 2013	ALIVE ADVERTSING D7360	Outdoor	143 838.36
23 October 2013	BENHLE MEDIA BN033/ BETHEL HOUSE MEDIA	Print	15 100.00
04 February 2014	HIGHBURY SAFIKA L9478	Print	27 314.40
11 March 2014	KASHAN ADVERTISING R0154	Print	81 022.80
Total			R 980 179.16

• Departmental Recruitment Advertising : R11 330 928.45

RECRUITMENT ADVERTISING: 1 JANUARY 2013 TO 31 JULY 2014
Placement Date:	Media:	Medium	Amount
January 2013	Sunday Times, City Press & New Age	Print	477 351.87
January 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	296 082.95
January 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	433 341.05
February 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	472 912.40
March 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	305 499.98
June 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	477 351.87
June 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	359 965.23
June 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	486 045.71
July 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	436 345.71
August 2013	Legal Brief	Print	73 341.05
September 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	394 299.02
September 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	472 912.40
October 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	405 454.98
October 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	436 345.71
October 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	396 082.95
November 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	394 199.36
November 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	477 351.87
November 2013	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	396 082.95
February 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	473 351.87
February 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	396 082.95
February 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	433 341.05
March 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	472 912.40
March 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	305 499.98
March 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	473 352.89
May 2014	Legal Brief	Print	75 155.90
June 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	352 005.07
June 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	396 470.75
June 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	296 370.30
July 2014	Sunday Times & City Press	Print	465 418.23
TOTAL			R11 330 928.45

Reply:

1. Yes.

The Government continues to pursue diplomatic channels to secure the release of the South African hostage, Steven McGowan.

(a)  A Task Team chaired by DIRCO was established comprising security departments to oversee this case. The Task Team meets regularly and informs the McGowan’s family of developments. In Mali, the South African Embassy is part of the Troika comprising the Netherlands and Sweden. The Troika holds meetings and engages with the Malian government to get updates on developments regarding this matter. This Troika has since been reduced to two members following the release of the Dutch hostage by the French security forces. Furthermore, a Special Envoy was sent to Mauritania in February 2015 specifically to establish more information on the kidnaping and raise South Africa’s concerns on the continued kidnapping.

(b)  The political and security situation in North Mali makes it difficult for the Malian government to engage with the kidnappers but efforts continues from both the South African and Malian governments to secure Mr McGowan’s release.

UNQUOTE