ATC130531: Report of the Portfolio Committee on Communications on the oversight visit to Mpumalanga Province on 18 – 23 March 2012, dated 28 May 2013

Communications and Digital Technologies

Report of the Portfolio Committee on Communications on the oversight visit to Mpumalanga Province on 18 – 23 March 2012, dated 28 May 2013

Report of the Portfolio Committee on Communications on the oversight visit to Mpumalanga Province on 18 – 23 March 2012, dated 28 May 2013

The Portfolio Committee on Communications (the Committee), having undertaken the oversight visit to Mpumalanga Province on 18 – 23 March 2012, reports as follows:

1. Introduction

This is a continuation of the oversight visits by the Committee in line with its role and the mandate as per: (i) the Constitution; (ii) and the National Assembly Rules.

The objective of the oversight visit served as the measurement indicator against the service delivery commitment by the executives. The theme of the oversight continued to be " Touch, Feel and See" how technology contributes to better the lives for all and amongst others the areas of focus were as follows:

(a) The strides made in the progressive realization of rights as contained in section 16(1) (a) and (b) of the Bill of Rights: (i) Freedom of the media; and (ii) Freedom to receive or impart information or ideas. To this end the Committee visited Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) community media projects, including those community broadcasters supported by Department of Communications (the Department);

(b) Efficiency of the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) in licensing community broadcasting, and monitoring compliance of licensees with license conditions, and other challenges in this sphere of broadcasting;

(c) The role played by Sentech in signal distribution for broadcasting and challenges they are facing in providing services to this Province;

(d) To measure progress made by the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) in rolling out the low-powered transmitters in collaboration with Sentech and ICASA; and

(e) Successes and challenges: (i) experience by Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA) in deploying TeleCentres for ICT services; and (ii) experience by South African Post Office (SAPO) in rolling out postal outlets, addresses and functionality of Public Internet Terminals (PITs); and (iii) rollout of telecommunications and broadcasting infrastructure.

The Committee visited community media projects (MDDA and the Department), Thusong Service Centres (Government Communications and Information System - GCIS), TeleCentres projects (USAASA), SAPO postal outlets, Sentech and SABC Regional Offices. On 21 March 2012, during the Human Rights Day, the Regulator and the Committee embarked on National Consumer Awareness Campaign in Bushbuckridge.

Furthermore, the oversight also assisted the Committee to measure progress on the issues already raised during the previous oversight visits.

DAY 1: Sunday, 18 March 2012

1. Delegation

During this oversight the delegation of the Committee was separated into two groups (Group A and Group B).

GROUP A

GROUP B

Mr SE Kholwane (ANC) (Chairperson & Leader of delegation)

Mr G Schneemann (ANC) (Committee Whip and Leader of Group B delegation)

Ms Tsebe (ANC) joined the oversight on Monday, 20 March 2012and left on Thursday, 22 March 2012)

Ms F Muthambi (ANC) left the oversight on Monday, 20 March 2012 and rejoined on Wednesday, 21 March 2012

Ms Ndlazi (ANC)

Mr D Kekana (ANC) left the oversight on Thursday, 22 March 2012)

Ms M Shinn (DA)

Mr A Steyn (DA)

Support Staff:

Mr T Ngoma (Committee Secretary)

Mr L Namzi (Parliament Communications))

Support Staff:

Ms S Peer (Committee Secretary)

Mr S Nene (Committee Researcher)

Mr L Mankay (Committee Assistant)

The following stakeholders accompanied the Committee: the Department, SABC, USAASA, SAPO, Sentech, GCIS, and MDDA. A briefing session was held at Southern Sun, Pretoria .

DAY 2: Monday, 19 March 2012

The Committee (both Groups) visited Marapyane Thusong Centre and TeleCentre. Thereafter Group A, proceeded to Siyabuswa Post Office, Coal City News and Emalahleni FM, whilst Group B to Mazekhaya Community Development Centre and Greater Middleburg Community Radio in Middelburg.

2 . Marapyane Thusong Centre

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Tisetso Ramotse, Provincial Director.

2.1 Overview of Marapyane Thusong Service Centre

Marapyane Thusong Service Centre is situated in a deep rural area of Mpumalanga Province in Nkangala District, within the Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality. The Centre was established in order to provide requisite services to the surrounding communities, especially the historically disadvantaged communities. The Centre has the following institutions: (i) Department of Home Affairs; (ii) South African Social Security Agency (SAASA); (iii) Library; (iv) Traditional Institutional Management; (v) Department of Social Development; (vi) Department of Co-operative Government and Traditional Affairs; (vi) TeleCentre; (vii) Department of Labour; and (viii) Small Enterprises Development Agency.

The Thusong Service Centre provides services to just over 50 people per day. Amongst services provided should be that of GCIS and its vacant position for a communication officer at the Centre was viewed as a major concern as communities were being deprived of government information, placing them in a disadvantaged position. Toilets at the Centre were locked and inaccessible to the public and appeared to be for the use of staff only, and the Centre manager undertook to address this issue as soon as possible. Although the municipality constructed toilets outside the Thusong Service Centre, they are situated far from the Centre and do not afford people dignity.

The legal identity and ownership of the Thusong Service Centre and TeleCentre were unclear. The Manager reported that the Centre was owned by North West Development Corporation (NWDC), which appears to be non-existent and is under the auspices of Dr JS Maroka Municipality. There is no tangible evidence with regard to ownership of the Centre as the Deeds Office printout allegedly presents discrepancies. Furthermore, GCIS lease agreement expired in 2005/6 financial year and it reported that they owe rental in access of R500 000.

It was reported that all Thusong Service Centres in the Province resides under COGTA, which also appoints Centre Managers until its hand-over to the relevant local municipality, in this case Dr JS Moroka.

2.2 Marapyane TeleCentre

The TeleCentre is meant to be repositioned as a knowledge information Centre, providing internet services to the community as well as the University of South Africa (UNISA) students. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been entered into between the Centre and UNISA in order that students are able to access the Internet. The services are provided to over fifty (50) people per day. The Centre has four computers with only two (2) that are fully operational, the rest were awaiting repairs for over four weeks and the printer at the Centre is also out of order.

The critical issue found at the TeleCentre, was that on Friday, 16 March 2012, USAASA approved ten (10) computers to be allocated to the TeleCentre. This was put into effect without prior communication with the Centre, given that the request was made in 2008 and followed up in 2009. The Centre was satisfied that it had sufficient space to lodge the additional ten (10) computers.

2.3 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that: (i) USAASA should restore the operations of the TeleCentre (must ensure that all required equipment is available) before 29 March 2012; (ii) GCIS should fill the vacancy of a Communication Officer on or before the end May 2012; (iii) the Centre Manager should ensure that the public has unlimited access to public toilets and the toilettes should be located inside the Centre; and (iv) the process of establishing a legitimate owner of the building should be prioritised.

3. Muzekhaya Community Development Centre

The Committee was welcomed by the Centre Manager, Mr AS Maredi and the Administrator, Mr MA Mahlangu, and they gave a brief outline of the Centre together with services offered and challenges encountered.

3.1 Overview of Muzekhaya TeleCentre

The Muzekhaya Community Development Centre was established in April 2003 and operates in the Dr JS Moroka Municipality with its headquarters situated in Makola village, Siyabuswa. It was established with an intent that it would be assisted by government departments, entities and other funding agencies (for fundraising purposes). Its main objective is to: (i) promote and encourage education to local communities; (ii) provide management skills; (iii) promote upcoming entrepreneurs in the SMME’s sector; and (iv) uplift adult literacy in the community.

The Centre also endeavours to alleviate poverty, create jobs and encourage the creation of food gardens as a means of income.

In 2007, the Muzekhaya Computer Community Development Centre which is a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) was established as a service provider in computer literacy. In 2009 an agreement was entered to with the South African Graduate Association (SAGDA) which is under National Youth Service (NYS) to offer computer literacy and life skills for a period of eleven months to the local community. Admission was granted to Grade 8-12 learners and certificates were accredited by the Department of Labour.

The Centre also obtained accreditation with Media and Information Communication Technology Sector Education and Training Authority (MICTSETA) for modules in: Introduction to Information Computer Technology (ICT); Typing Tutor; Internet; Ms Word; Ms Excel; Ms PowerPoint; and Ms Access (Database). This accreditation was extended to the Services Seta and SETA for Finance, Accounting, Management Consulting and other Financial Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) which enabled the Centre to offer Financial Management and Capacity Building in Project Management (Generic Management Skills). Employees of provincial departments and municipalities are targeted to be empowered and capacitated with relevant skills.

The Centre has five employees of which two (2) are managers, two (2) are facilitators and a cleaner.

3.2 Services provided at the TeleCentre

Muzekhaya Computer Community Development Centre successfully trained 290 learners in modules such as MS Office-Ms Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as modules on Life skills, Project Management skills, Entrepreneurial skills and Marketing Management skills.

Operational activities of the Centre include computer and management skills facilitation, printing, photocopying, faxing, Internet services, laminating, registration, compilation of organisation constitutions, business plan, profile, tax return forms, quality evaluation and assessment of services rendered, and marketing. Operational fixed costs include electricity, municipal services, 24 hour security alarm system, cleaning materials and gardening. The total running costs of the Centre amounts to R66 600.00 per annum.

3.3 Challenges

The Centre has the following challenges: (i) theft of equipment; (ii) non-functional equipment; and (iii) insufficient Internet bundles for the Centre.

3.4 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) the TeleCentre was non-operational; (ii) the only services provided by USAASA were the 500MB Internet bundles and ten (10) computers with seven not functional, the printer, fax and photocopy machine were also not functional; (iii) USAASA has recently approved another ten (10) computers to be allocated to the Centre; (iv) USAASA through its rapid development programme had approved another ten (10) computers for the TeleCentre; (v) USAASA seemed to focus on the provision of the equipment rather than ensuring universal access and services is realised.

3.5 Recommendations

The Committee therefore recommends that: (i) USAASA should ensure restoration of ICT services in line with its mandate; and (ii) a detailed report on business plans relating to the ten (10) computers recently approved by USAASA should be submitted to the Committee by 29 March, 2012.

4 Greater Middleburg Community Radio (GMCR)

4.1 Overview of GMCR

GMCR is a 24 hour community radio station with studios at (Mhluzi) in Middelburg. It was established in 1999 and was granted a four year broadcasting licence by ICASA in August 2000; and subsequently renewed in 2004 for another four years.

In 2004, it was registered as a section 21 company in terms of section 21 of the Companies Act, after operating as a voluntary organisation for the first four years of its existence. Its broadcasting footprint coverage (frequency 89.7 MHZ) includes areas like Steve Tshwete local municipality, KwaMakalane, Laanglaagte, Dooornkop, Wonderhoek, Hendrina, Uitkyk, Van Dyks Drift, as well as Emalahleni.

Greater Middelburg FM has been providing local news and information for the past seven years using local languages which include, SePedi, Nguni languages, English and Afrikaans. Furthermore it has been prioritising local content as opposed to non-local programmes and the listenership of around 15 000.

4.2 Site Visit

The Committee undertook a site visit to the on-air studio during a live current affairs program. The studio equipment was donated by the Department of Communications (Department). However, an application for funding for an additional digital production studio has been submitted to the Department.

4.3 Challenges

The station raised the following challenges: (i) use of media brokers who are taking large proportion of the advertising revenue; (ii) there is no content and production studio; (iii) there are no scheduled workshops for staff on issues of governance and management training; (iv) the station owes R58 000.00 to South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) for royalties; (v) prevalence of poaching of trained staff, and (vi) the geographical positioning of the antenna limits the broadcasting radius of the station as per its licence condition.

4.4 Observations and recommendations

The Committee noted that the community radio station survives on MDDA funding and recommends that the community radio station: (i) should look at a long-term sustainability model; (ii) submit a comprehensive report on challenges they are facing in relation to the occupation of the municipal building and compliance with their licence conditions; (iii) the Department, ICASA, GCIS and MDDA should work together to develop a comprehensive report in response to the station’s challenges.

GROUP A

5. Siyabuswa Post Office

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Richard Bruins, Area Manager.

5.1 Overview of Siyabuswa Post Office

Siyabuswa Post Office is situated at the Siyabuswa shopping complex (owned by Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency) and serves as a catchment area of approximately 250km square metre has a residential population of 85 236. In addition to the conventional Post Office, postal services are rendered by means of three Retail Postal Agencies: Buthu; Strymag and Madlayedwa. The branch services the community through SAPO’s online point of sale system. It is a B classified branch and operates with 10 staff members and seven workers contracted by labour brokers who are responsible for mail delivery. It offers all products and services and is earmarked for the Motor Vehicle License service granted an agreement with the Department of Roads and Transport is finalised. It has one Public Internet Terminal (PIT), which is out of order.

5.2 Siyabuswa Infrastructure Development Plans

A new Post Office will be opened at the Siyabuswa Mall and it will be called Mdutjana. The business case for the Post Office has already been submitted for approval and an agreement has been reached with the landlord. Madlayedwa Retail Postal Agency will be upgraded to an online Postal Agency and the Siyabuswa Post Office will be upgraded.

5.3 Challenges

The Post Office highlighted the following challenges: (i) lack of maintenance of the building by the landlord; (ii) security challenges during pension payouts as the building is situated in a high risk area – in March 2012 counter screen was smashed by armed robbers; and (iii) no air-conditioning for customers.

5.4 Observations

The Committee noted with concern that: (i) the last time ICASA did an inspection at the Post Office was in March 2011; and (ii) the PIT was out of order.

6. Coal City News

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Mduduzi Mbizane: Sales, Advertising and Administration Manager.

6.1 Overview of Coal City News

Ms Lola Michelle Mashiane formed the publication in 2004 to provide the local people with relevant news and offer advertising space at an affordable rate to companies and local businesses. Coal City News is a 100% black owned newspaper that services the Kwa-Guqa township in eMalahleni. In November 2008, it was voted the best company run by young people at the eMalahleni Mayor’s Awards and Ms Mashiane received the award for the “Best Young Entrepreneur.”

The newspaper prints approximately 20 000 copies (8-16 pages) every second week of the month, with a targeted print order of 50 000. It is mostly distributed door to door throughout Witbank, Kriel, Ogies, Xstrata Mines and Anglo Coal. It is published in 80% English and 20% Zulu. Rates for the 20 000 copies printed in respect of adverts are R10 307.20 (full page); R5 114.20 (half page); R2 597.40 (quarter page); and R360.00 per 1 000 loose inserts.

In 2011, Ms Mashiane introduced the Community Newspaper Initiative (CNI), which is a media entity of community newspapers. The group comprises Coal City News (eMalahleni), Mhluzi Reflection (Middleburg), Victor Khanye News (Delmas) and The Voice (Kriel). CNI reaches over a half a million readers per month and collectively covers the Nkangala District and the entire coal-belt. A total of 65 000 copies are delivered door to door free of charge to homes and business every fortnight. Additional bulk deliveries to libraries, community Centres and shopping Centres ensure that these community newspapers are Nkangala’s most accessible information news medium. The information delivered by these newspapers provides readers with a sense of pride, sense of identity and a sense of belonging.

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6.2 Challenges

The newspaper highlighted the following challenges: (i) Department of Health and Education are not advertising in the newspaper; (ii) the online edition was suspended; (iii) no support from the municipality (in terms of only advertising on national newspapers); and (iv) cannot use vernacular languages due to financial limitations.

6.3 Observations

The Committee noted with appreciation the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the young people who run the community newspaper.

7. Emalahleni FM

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Ms Sabina Motsweni, Board Chairperson

7.1 Overview of Emalahleni FM

The station received a licence in 2009 and started broadcasting in 2010. It is located in an area that offers easy access and visibility to clients and stakeholders. It has seventeen (17) full-time staff members, five (5) part-time and one (1) intern. The station has a listenership of 64 000 and a projected growth of 100 000 listeners in 2012. It has a Community Advisory Board and Council as per Broadcasting Charter of 2008. The majority of its income is derived from advertising by local businesses.

7.2 Challenges

The station highlighted the following challenges: (i) no outside broadcast to increase revenue and marketing; (ii) shortage of funds for training and branding; (iii) electricity outages damaging equipment; (iv) interference by the Board in operational issues; (v) no funding from the Department; and (vi) use of middle-men by advertisers.

7.3 Observations

The Committee noted the stations concern regarding power outages and recommends that MDDA to assist the station with an alternative source of power.

The Committee informed the station that: (i) Sentech is in the process of reviewing the signal distribution tariffs; (ii) MDDA is in a process of establishing an online central booking system for advertising and; (iii) it is engaging with MDDA and the advertising industry in terms of transforming the sector.

DAY 3: Tuesday, 20 March 2012

Group B visited Mashishing FM, Sabie Post Office, Ziwaphi Newspaper and M-Power FM whilst Group A visited Sentech (Emerlo), Elukwatini Post Office, Barberton Community Radio and Umjindi Newspaper.

Group B

8. Mash FM (Lydenburg, Mashishing)

8.1 Overview

The community radio station was initially registered as an association incorporated under section 21 and approved as a public benefit organisation by the South African Revenue Services (SARS) in 2007. In 2008, it was granted a special event licence by ICASA whilst SAMBRO granted it a permanent music license and in 2010 was granted a Class Broadcasting Service License by ICASA. The advertisements are recorded in four broadcasting languages: English, Afrikaans, SiSwati and SePedi.

It is located in Lydenburg (Mashishing) under the Thaba Chweu Municipality in Mpumalanga Province . The surrounding platinum, gold and chrome mines are big tourist destinations and there is a fast growth in the population and economy; this will assist the station to sustain itself. The challenge of the community radio station will be to attract local businesses and the municipality to utilise the station for announcements, adverts and programmes.

The Boards of Directors are passionate about community development and their term of office is five years. It is headed by a Station Manager assisted by the Financial Officer, Programmes Officer, Marketing Officer and an Administrator to manage the day to day running of the station. In addition, six (6) full time radio presenters run the day-to-day broadcasting services and also host road shows every weekend. The management and the staff are attending internal and external workshops to improve their skills and knowledge to sustain the station’s human resources needs.

8.2 Site visit (current premises)

The Committee undertook a brief site visit at the current premises. The broadcasting studio was extremely old, under equipped, no proper sound proofing, and has outdated equipment. It (the broadcasting studio) has been operating under these conditions for over a year.

8.3 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) lack of space on current premises and old equipment; (ii) use of media brokers (Mr Seka Seka, media broker for Mpumalanga Community Radio) in the sector; (iii) high level of power cuts; (iv) lack of content relating to national events, for example, the State of the Nation Address; (v) lack of clarity on whom to approach regarding application for funding; (vi) the resources required including equipment for two (2) on air studios, office furniture, six (6) computers, one (1) main printer, and a backup generator for the on air studios; and (vii) high cost for signal distribution by Sentech at R15000.00 per month.

8.4 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) the premises occupied by the radio station do not appear to be suitable in respect of production and sound-proofing; (ii) the radio station is in the process of moving to new premises depending on MDDA funding; (iii) rentals for both premises are R2500.00, but the new premises would be more suitable in respect of location and transport; and (iv) the community radio station has applied for operational funding from MDDA, and for equipment from the Department.

9. Sabie Post Office

9.1 Overview of Sabie

The Lowveld Area Manager, Mr Sydney Sithole, presented a brief overview of the post office.

Sabie is 100 km north-west of Nelspruit. The Post Office comprises 3 counters, equipments, sorting/box section, and back office. The branch forms part of the Lowveld Area office in Nelspruit under the north-east region.

The population of Sabie is 40 000 with 13 403 households. Registered businesses are 97 including shops, schools and other public Centres. The average number of clients or citizens served per month by the branch is 8 605. The total number of transactions performed on average is 1671.

The main products transacted per month are post bank deposits which is 571, post bank withdrawals is 420, pension volumes is 845, parcels handled is 168 and letters (standard/non standard) is 111 694. It has a private bag service, 1500 boxes installed and 1320 are fully rented by the customers. In addition, 1 lobby is erected within the town, and street delivery services and mail is delivered five (5) times a week.

The branch is operated by five (5) staff members of which three (3) positions are vacant (one (1) advertised and two (2) contracted to start in April, 2013). An overall improvement of services and facelift at the post office is anticipated.

9.2 Services

Basic postal and financial services are offered by this branch, which includes all post bank facilities, social grant cards, savings bank accounts, Mzansi services and post book banking services still available particularly for children. Other services include fax, printing and photocopying. With regard to maintenance of equipment a month-to-month agreement has been entered into with Nashua .

9.3 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) dilapidated counters need renovation and will be replaced with the new anticipated design; (ii) it does not have an Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) certificate; (iii) no disabled counters and accessibility is thus a challenge; (iv) its engaging with SAPS on security matters as there are no bullet proof counters; and (v) signage replacement and installation remains a common challenge which will be addressed in future budget allocations.

9.4 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) security is a concern given the fact that syndicates are able to bypass the alarm systems; (ii) the PIT is fully operational and is one of the new models; (iii) there are three (3) vacancies in terms of staff but are currently being filled and in the absence of staff, contracted workers are being used to provide requisite services; and (iv) ICASA visited the branch in February 2012.

10 Ziwaphi Newspaper

10.1 Overview of Ziwaphi Newspaper

Ziwaphi News is solely run by Mr Tom Nkosi and was started in 2007 through the assistance of MDDA. It is a NPO and an investigative newspaper focusing on making the voices of the people heard and it has a strong connection to the community.

It plays a vital role in the community where it facilitates access to government information and open dialogue. Ziwaphi is a colloquial Nguni expression which means ‘ what’s happening and where?’ These are two most important journalistic questions when gathering news. Ziwaphi is a general interest top quality bi-weekly tabloid size newspaper with an estimated 40 000 readers per month. It specialises in local regional news coverage, but also offers a comprehensive package of provincial and national news. Along with news, lifestyle, sports and commentary, the newspapers also features a full complement of display and classified advertisement.

It is sold for R1,00.00 A total of 7 000 copies are printed (has previously been reduced to 5 000), and contains pages ranging from 12-16 and up to 20 pages. Initially staff complement amounted to six (6) but had to be reduced to three (3) due to lack of funding. However, the staff has again increased to five (5).

10.2 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) late payment from government advertisers; (ii) due to the investigative nature of the newspaper many dangers are encountered such as patronage, bribery and death threats, frequent attacks on journalists and lawsuits; and (iii) discrimination by advertising agencies.

10.3 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) the main problem experienced by the newspaper is that it lacks government advertising; (ii) pending legal matters and the need for newspaper to strengthen legal support; (iii) MDDA is funding the newspaper and that has assisted it to pay rent; and (iv) there is a need for hubs in the Province in order to get widespread news to communities.

10.4 Recommendations

The Committee therefore recommends that the newspaper should keep the Committee abreast of its work, challenges and successes in the spirit of successful print media going forward.

11. M Power FM

11.1 Overview

It was established in 2006 when AME and Direng shareholders approached the Lowveld Chamber of Business and Commerce to enter into a bid for the tender of the only commercial radio licence to be issued by ICASA in Mpumalanga . It is the first and only commercial radio station in Mpumalanga . Board members include: Ms Ethel Shongwe; Mr Sinke Ngobe Nkosi; Mr Gay Makwena (Acting Chairman); Mr Raymond Kevan; Mr Mark Schormann and the shareholders are: AME LTD; Direng (PTY) Ltd and Mbombela Media Consortium.

It is an entertaining and informative commercial radio station and broadcasting from studios in Nelspruit and Emalahleni. It went on air in 2007 and features an exciting mix of South African radio talent and promising newcomers, provincially and nationally.

Over the past four years some changes have occurred. There was an opening of the Witbank (Emalahleni) studio at the ridge and relocation of its main studio to the Grove Shopping Centre in the Riverside Precinct in Nelspruit. M-Power FM is fast becoming the heart of the Province, with great emphasis being placed on supporting charities and communities with specific needs. It continues to strive and meet the expectations of the community at large.

It endeavours to keep its content as local as possible and remain the heart of communities. Content comprises of soft and urban music, daily talk-shows, and large focus on Corporate Social Investments (CSI). It also runs charity programmes every Wednesdays.

Its breakfast show has been running for over four years and it also hosts a local comedian show. Staff and interns are selected from the Province and focus is placed on the development of local talent, whereby creating a bridge for youth to be introduced into the industry. The radio station has no interaction with the MDDA and is keen to assist other community radio stations through mentorship programmes and a viable revenue model.

The Mpumalanga Super Station concept offers both commercial and community radio stations an opportunity to advertise within Mpumalanga . The following radio stations (M-Power FM, Barberton Community Radio FM, Emalahleni FM, Radio Bushbuckridge FM, Radio Laeveld FM, kaNyamazane Radio FM, Radio Secunda FM and Kriel Info FM) have agreed to co-operate and be regarded as a single station for the purposes of their selling efforts and has been listed on Telmar. The listenership for this super station has been combined by South African Advertising Research Foundation (SAARF). The African Media Sales (AMS) is administering the national sales for the super station; and distribute the proceeds equitable to the participating radio stations.

11.2 Site Visit

It has state-of-the-art studios, and broadcasts on the seven frequencies.

11.3 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) financial constraints which are experienced due to high tariffs for signal distribution to Sentech (currently paying approximately R200 000.00 per month); (ii) regular power cuts mainly during storms; (iii) difficulty to retain staff due to poaching by the industry; and (iv) high salary bill of R300 000.00 per month.

11.4 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that: (i) the radio station should continue to engage MDDA on how it can collaborate to provide mentorship to community radio stations.

Group B

12. Sentech (Ermelo)

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Gideon Madikizela, Provincial General Manager

12.1 Overview of Sentech

The regional structure is divided into four regions, namely: Eastern, Northern, Western and Central. These structures are based on effectively optimising business operations and thus ensuring excellence in customer service. Ermelo operations fall within the Northern Region which is also comprised of the Johannesburg and Polokwane Operations Centres. Ermelo operations services clients within the Mpumalanga Province .

Through Sentech , Mpumalanga residents are able to listen to 12 of the 18 SABC radio stations such as: Ligwalagwala FM; Lesedi FM; Umhlobo Wenene FM and Metro FM amongst others. The communities can further listen to a number of community radio stations which include: Moutse Community Radio; Mashishing Community Radio and Barberton Community Radio.

The three commercial radio stations are: Capricorn FM; M-Power and Jacaranda FM.

In addition, Sentech enables the transmission of Mnet, e-TV and all three SABC TV services thereby providing analogue TV services to 73% of the population in the Province.

12.2 Low Power Transmission

To date (as of 2012), Sentech and SABC have rolled-out approximately 70 low-power transmitters across the country with seven of these sites serviced by Ermelo operations. Sentech is cognisant of the copper theft and site acquisition challenges encountered in some municipalities across the country which pose a serious challenge for project completion.

In Mpumalanga specifically, there are still a number of communities that do not have access to radio and television services. Sentech is currently working with the SABC, the Department, and ICASA to address site acquisition challenges, more specifically, in Thembisile and Vriscvhgewaagd communities.

Before the FIFA 2010 World Cup, Sentech successfully managed to bring SABC 1, 2 and 3 and Ligwalagwala FM to the following areas: Ekulindeni; Nhlaba; Steynsdorp and Josephsdal – thus enabling approximately 7000 more residents to enjoy the major event in the history of South Africa . In December 2011, Tjakastad, Chrissiesmeer, Wakkerstroom and Boekenhouthoek were further switched on bringing the same services to approximately 9000 community members. Another 2000 residents will be added to the figure upon the completion of Vrischgewaadg that is still underway.

12.3 Provincial DTT Rollout

Three sites are ready for the Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) rollout, with ten (10) sites remaining and total population coverage is standing at 66.6%.

12.4 Corporate Social Investment (CSI)

Sentech’s CSI strategy is guided by the principle of promoting people-centred, needs-driven and sustainable development of communities through ICT interventions. Through these interventions, Sentech endeavours to: (i) increase access to education and empower learners in underserviced areas by specifically focusing on providing institutions of learning with access to the Internet; (ii) innovatively develop and participate in initiatives that seek to advance ICT in underserviced areas; (iii) collaborate with entities on initiatives that seek to bridge the digital divide thereby improving beneficiaries’ quality of life; (iv) participate in the national calendar social events and campaigns; and (v) develop and foster a corporate culture of community development by involving employees in Company Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives.

During 2011/12 financial year, Masitakhe Senior Secondary School in Matsulu village was identified as a beneficiary for Sentech’s CSI programme. The investment included building an i-Lab which is equipped with 20 computers and a five-year VSAT Internet connectivity. The investment further extended to classroom refurbishment and security reinforcements. The connectivity will ensure that educators and learners not only have Internet connection, but access to information and worthwhile subject matter that enriches their teaching and learning experience across the high school syllabus.

12.5 Challenges

The following challenges were highlighted: (i) lack of co-operation by local municipalities in terms of site acquisition for low power transmitters; (ii) ICASA takes long to process license applications; and (iii) high theft of copper on sites.

12.6 Observations

The Committee noted with great concern that: (i) 27% of the Mpumalanga population does not have coverage; and (ii) municipalities were not co-operating with Sentech in terms of low-power transmitter sites allocation.

12.7 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that Sentech must: (i) within a month provide a list of all municipalities not cooperating in terms of site acquisition for low-powered transmitters; (ii) provide a report in terms of state of DTT readiness geographically; (iii) detailed report on how many low-powered transmitters will be needed for total coverage of the Province geographically (this must include other Provinces); and (iv) challenges experienced by working with both ICASA and SABC.

13. Elukwatini Post Office

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Fats Gumede, Area Manager for Gert Sibande District Municipality .

13.1 Overview of Elukwatini Post Office

Its situated in premises rented from MEGA and serves a catchment area of approximately 200km square metre, with a population of 65 000 residents. In addition to the Post Office there are two Retail Postal Agencies, i.e. Ekulindeni and Lamagadlela.

The branch services the community through SAPO’s online point of sale system. It is classified as a C-classification branch and has a staff compliment of five. The Post Office is earmarked for the Motor Vehicle License once agreement with the Department of Roads and Transport has been reached. The PIT was stolen during a break-in 1997.

13.2 Elukwatini Infrastructure Development Plans

The relocation of the existing Post Office will be in mid-August 2012. A business case has been submitted for approval and awaiting landlord confirmation. Ekulindeni Retail Postal Agency will be upgraded to a conventional type Post Office within the premises of Elukwatini Post Office.

13.3 Challenges

The following challenges were highlighted: (i) only one toilet for staff and no toilet for customers; (ii) a water tank was requested in 2009 as an alternative water supply source but no response was ever received from senior management; and (iii) there are technical interruptions with Postbank during pension payouts.

13.4 Observations

The Committee noted (i) with concern the deployment of unarmed security services during pension payment days, and the problems of the post bank system; (ii) the undertaking made to provide the water tank before end of second week of April 2012 and to deal with the toilet facilities problem; and (iii) undertaking made that the two contract workers will be employed fulltime by the end of April 2012.

14. Barberton Community Radio (BCR)

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Thulani Gwebu, Board Chairperson.

14.1 Overview of BCR

The station was established in 1997 and a 150km footprint radius was approved in 2003. It broadcasts for Barberton , Nelspruit and other surrounding areas. It has twenty-one (21) fulltime staff members and twelve (12) volunteers. The station is 60% talk and 40% music and broadcasts mostly in SiSwati with 20% of English. The station has a listenership of 190 000 and predominantly black.

MDDA approved a funding of R450 000.00 for the station and the first tranche of R250000.00 was paid in 2005/6, but due to unaccountability the remaining funds were withheld. The operation cost is around R100 000.00 a month and currently generates revenue through advertising. It does not receive support from the municipality.

14.2 Achievements

The station has achieved the following: (i) produced sixty-four (64) professionals working for the SABC and other commercial radios; (ii) produced six (6) professionals currently working for government; (iii) reduced its challenges; and (iv) has a good succession plan.

14.3 Challenges

The following challenges were highlighted: (i) lack of funding for skills development; (ii) upgrading or buying new studio equipment; (iii) purchasing a new mobile studio; (iv) payment of signal distribution costs; and (v) improving its sound quality.

14.4 Observations

The Committee noted the challenges raised by the station and the unaccountability for tax payer’s money and recommends that the Department and MDDA must come up with a corporate plan to assist community media.

15. Umjindi Guardian

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Thabo Mashile, Director.

15.1 Overview of Umjindi Guardian

The Guardian was established in 2005 as a successor to the Mpumalanga Times. It serves Baadplaas and Umjindi communities. It is a watchdog newspaper as its priorities are about investigative journalism (mismanagement, corruption etc). It prints 5000 copies fortnightly with a readership of 10 000. It sells very well in Barberton with 300 copies distributed at Pick ‘n Pay and free copies are distributed in public places.

Due to the nature of the Guardian news stories, advertising of local retail has steadily increased. Pick ‘n Pay and Spar are the papers’ loyal advertisers. The paper is printed in Durban and Johannesburg .

It became part of the MDDA portfolio in 2009. The grant received from MDDA assisted in strengthening its capacity but due to unforeseen challenges, the grant was suspended. Currently, the newspaper has one (1) staff member.

15.2 Challenges

The Guardian had a challenge with the lack of suitable trained reporters and receives no support from government.

15.3 Observations

The Committee noted that the Guardian had deviated from MDDA funding requirements which led to the suspension of the grant and recommends that the Department must provide report on the status of the country with regards to community broadcasting challenges, achievements and approaches to resolve and improve the community media’s sustainability by 30 April 2012.

DAY 3: Wednesday, 21 March 2012 (Public Holiday – Human Rights Day)

16. ICASA Consumer Awareness Campaign

The Committee attended the above-mentioned campaign hosted by ICASA, and its theme was “ Advance the Building of A Digital Society , Reach-out and Bridge Digital Divide”. It was also attended by state own companies, operators, local traditional authority and the community at large .

After the Awareness Campaign, Group B visited Radio Bushbuckridge and Group A visited Bushbuckridge News.

Group B

17. Radio Bushbuckridge (88.4 FM)

17.1 Overview of Radio Bushbusckridge

Management of Radio Bushbuckridge comprises of the Station Manager (Ms CM Kintu), Programmes Manager (Mr G Weapond), Financial Manager (Ms J Khosa) and Executive Officer (Mr R Kgoedi). It was established in 1994 and went on air in December 1996. In 1999, ICASA granted it a four year licence with coverage of 70km radius. It broadcasts in the following languages: Sepulana (local language), XiTsonga, SiSwati and English, with programmes that are 80% developmentally orientated.

The station largely focuses on training and development, and the SABC Regional Manager, Station Manager and six (6) radio announcers are former Radio Bushbuckridge employees. Amongst the achievements, it won the 2004 Provincial Soccer Tournament in Middleburg, in 2004/5 awarded for producing the Best Radio Drama in South Africa (the Department), 2004/5 awarded for Best Provincial Community Radio Performer in Mpumalanga (the Department), in 2007 received an award from ABC Ulwazi for overall performer and in 2008 awarded for best Producer (SABC Community Radio Award).

It aspires to learn from other corporate institutions with consistent focus on challenges. It constantly engages the community on programme production, establishment of listenership forums and programming committee, and engagement of advertisers, funders and sponsors. Furthermore, it’s currently focused on a site that has been secured to build its own infrastructure, given the challenges related to the current premises; it conducted a survey to strengthen coverage, restoration of the Live School Debate programme, contingency plan for technical back-up system, as well as digital migration.

Its operational cost per month is approximately R100 000.00 that includes R20 000.00-R30 000.00 for staff remuneration. Operational expenses mainly include transport, hiring of cars, telephone bills, electricity (R7000-R9000), rent R2500.00, stationery, equipment and security. Staff at the station is predominantly employed on a voluntary basis with a stipend of R500.00.

17.2 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) the repeated instruction by the Department of Education to vacate the current premises bearing in mind that no lease agreement was signed by the parties; (ii) regular power failures; (iii) requisite mobile and digital studios and upgrade of the antennae (might approach Sentech to provide signal distribution); and (iv) lack of funding for new premises.

17.3 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) only the provincial Department of Health, GCIS and the municipality support the station through its programmes; and (ii) the bulk of its revenue is attained from advertisers and other donations.

17.4 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that the engagement with Sentech should be sped-up and that MDDA must provide a progress report about the requested funding.

Group A

18. Bushbuckridge News (Bush News)

The Committee was welcomed by Mr Thulani Castro, Publisher of Langa Media and Ms Nelisiwe Ndlovu, Publisher.

18.1 Overview of (Bush News)

The newspaper was established in 2009 and is a weekly publication sold at R1.00. Bush News was the first community newspaper in the area; however, there are many Caxton published small newspapers in the region. It is printed in English, SePulana (local language) and XiTsonga. The paper prints 4000 copies with 12 or 16 pages per copy.

18.2 Achievements

The newspaper has the following achievements: (i) secured annual advertising contract with Spar Lowveld; Auto Zone national; Bed City and several contracts with local advertisers, specifically the motor industry; and (ii) has improved the lay-out of the publication.

18.3 Challenges

Bush News highlighted the following challenges: (i) unfair price wars; (ii) advertising industry’s disregard of community newspapers; (iii) anti-competitive behaviour from Caxton (such as continued poaching of staff); (iv) a lack of financial resources to effect real and lasting growth; (v) government communicator’s unwillingness to utilise community media in a manner that is mutually beneficial to both parties; and (vi) interference of politics.

18.4 Observations

The Committee noted all the challenges raised and reported the Committee will continue to engage all parties in order to deal with the challenges raised above in 18.3.

DAY 4: Thursday, 22 March, 2012

Group B visited Mbangwane Thusong Centre, Kanyamazane Post Office and Kanyamazane Community Radio whilst Group A visited Casteel Thusong Centre, Thulamahashe Post Office and Bushbuckridge Post Office. The visits were followed by a stakeholders meeting.

Group B

19. Mbangwane Thusong Centre

19.1 Overview

COGTA facilitated the establishment of Mbangwane Thusong Service Centres in order to improve provision of services in line with a 1999 Cabinet Resolution. It was officially opened on 21 August 2007, but started operating in November 2009. It has the support of the municipality and the Tribal Authority in the area.

The management structures of the Centre are (i) Local Inter-Sectoral Steering Committee (LISSC) which comprises of the ward councillors, Community Development Workers (CDW’s) and members from community structures. This structure assists with needs analysis and further links the community with the Centre; (ii) Management Committee which meets on monthly basis to discuss service providers and managerial issues.

Services which are provided include those from Department of Home Affairs, SASSA, Social Development and Welfare, Department of Finance (which donated an Internet cafe), Department of Labour, Rural Development and Land Reform, Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Administration, Department of Justice (Legal Aid South Africa), Department of Public Service and Administration, GCIS, COGTA, Unisa, Maphosa Photo Centre and TeleCentre (computer school).

Service providers providing services but not occupying space at the Centre include: Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), Department of Education, Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, South African Police Services, and the Department of Water Affairs (which donated 30 water tankers).

19.2 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) in relation to health services – there’s shortage of nurses, cleaners and pharmacists. However this challenge has been communicated to the Department of Health and Social Development; (ii) no certifying services provided and the community travel 3.4 km for this service (Commissioner of Oaths); (iii) role of USAASA not clear as it only provided six computers and the 500MB internet bundle; (iv) no GCIS office but publications are delivered and has branded the Centre; (v) the retail postal agency (RPA) is non-operational; and (vi) no ICASA office.

19.3 Observations

The Committee noted that the Centre has the requisite infrastructure and services appear to be provided from various departments, yet remains highly under-utilised in respect of service delivery. This presents a matter of great concern given that a large sum of money is invested to provide infrastructure but people are not receiving services as mandated.

19.4 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that: (i) USAASA should clarify its role and review the Internet bundle provision; (ii) SAPO to intervene and restore postal services provisions; and (iii) ICASA should perform its duty to inspect post offices.

20. KaNyamazane Post Office

20.1 Overview

The Post Office is located in the KaNyamazane township, 27km East of Nelspruit and its part of the Lowveld Area Office in Nelspruit under the north-east region. It has four counters, with four (4) points of sales equipment, a sorting and box section, as well as a back office. It will be relocating to KaNyamazane Shopping Centre.

The existing premises are being rented from the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency and the lease expires in the next financial year. Lack of maintenance by the landlord is a major concern; and recently the roof had to be repaired.

It is operated by six (6) staff members which consists of the Branch Manager, Tellers and Postal Assistant, only one (1) male and the rest including the Branch Manager are females.

The total population is 110 000 with 7 100 households, 42 registered businesses which include shops, schools and other public Centres. Basic postal and financial services are offered by this branch. The average amount of clients served per month is 11 901 and the total number of transactions performed is 2 294. The main products transacted per month are post bank deposits (539), withdrawals (920), pension volumes amount to 840, parcels handled is 227 and letters (standard/non-standard) is 110 147.

Private bag services are provided with 2 500 boxes of which 1 850 are rented by customers. Six lobbies have been erected in and around the KaNyamazane Township and street delivery services are also provided with mail delivered five (5) times a week.

20.2 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) the dilapidated condition of the building, water leakage and requires renovation which the landlord is not attending to; (ii) it does not have the requisite Occupational Health and Safety Act certificates which remain an ongoing challenge in attaining; (iii) disabled counters and accessibility in this regard is non-existent, however the branch manager’s office is being utilised in the meantime; (iv) armed robberies are rife, presenting major constraints but SAPS has been engaged for assistance and is in a process to install security alarms and counter screens; (v) old temporary signage will be replaced upon corporate approval; (vi) there is a need for an additional outlet or RPAs which is included in the new financial year budget.

20.3 Observations

The Committee noted that: (i) there are two (2) vacancies of which one (1) arose as a result of a staff member transferring to another branch to assist at a supervisory position, and another vacancy is for a general assistant (cleaner) which has been vacant for three (3) years; (ii) there is no PIT and the branch is offline; and (iii) equipments are operational including photocopier and fax machine, however the concern is the turnaround time for repairs.

20.4 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that: (i) vacant posts should be filled urgently; (ii) speed-up the process of establishing additional outlet and the relocation to new premises; and (iii) the current post office should be connected online.

21. KaNyamazane Community Radio Station

21.1 Overview

The KaNyamazane Community Radio Station broadcasts around Mbombela municipality area. It broadcast 80% SiSwati and the remaining 20% is shared amongst English, isiZulu and “Tsotsi Taal” which is the township lingo. It applied for an on-air broadcasting studio and equipment grant from MDDA and DoC respectively in January 2009. No response from DoC received till to date. It’s operating with one and is insufficient. The second MDDA grant has been approved.

The Committee met with former members of the station who are also part of KaNyamazane Community Forum (KCF) currently in dispute with the station leadership. The following issues were raised: (i) names of Board members, election date and the process followed; (ii) credentials of the current management; (iii) process followed to dismiss employees; (iv) employment contracts of the current employees and volunteers; (v) financial management and accountability as required by PFMA; and (vi) community participation and compliance with licence conditions issued by ICASA.

The Station Manager responded to the issues raised as follows: (i) the Board was elected in June 2011 at the campus boardroom where it’s housed, approximately fifty (50) community members and churches participated; and (ii) the dismissals of former employees was conducted in line with the station constitution and policies, e.g. one (1) employee was dismissed on the ground of being intoxicated on duty whilst the other due to harassment of other employees, however he also acknowledged that there is a pending court order against these former employees.

The station utilises its own antenna through Sound Fusion as Sentech tariffs were too expensive. It is composed of sixteen (16) full time employees and eleven (11) volunteers, who are paid a stipend of R1200.00 per month. Its expenditure amount to R30 000.00 – R40 000.00 per month and the station manager confirmed that the first grant received had been audited.

21.2 Challenges

The following challenges were raised: (i) late payment by government sometimes up to 60 days; (ii) usage of media brokers called “African Media Sales;” and (iii) lack of support by local business in relation to advertising.

21.3 Recommendations

The Committee recommends that: (i) ICASA should investigate the compliance or non-compliance thereof with license conditions and report to the Committee; (ii) the radio station should create a platform to engage with the community as they are holding a community license.

Group A

22. Casteel Thusong Centre

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Tisetso Ramotse, Provincial Director: GCIS.

22.1 Overview of Casteel Thusong Centre

The Centre was established by the Office of the Premier in Limpopo in 2000 and started to operate in 2001 but officially launched by Premier Ngoako Ramathlodi on 18 March, 2004. Most of the services started to be provided including the municipality and GCIS in 2006 .

22.2 Service Providers in the Thusong Centre

The following institutions provide services in the Centre: (i) Department of Education; (ii) Department of Home Affairs; (iii) Department of Agriculture; (iv) Department of Labour; (v) Department of Rural Development; (vi) COGTA, (vii) Department of Social Development; (viii) South African Police Services; (ix) GCIS; (x) South African Social Security Agency; (xi) South African Post Office; (xii) Bushbuckridge Local Municipality; (xiii) Standard Bank; (xiv) University of South Africa; (xv) Legal Aid Board; (xvi) Bushbuckridge Youth Development Organisation; (xvii) Small Enterprise Development Agency; and (xviii) Old Mutual.

22.3 Challenges of the Centre

The Centre has the following challenges: (i) there is not enough office and parking space; (ii) lift facility for people with disabilities is not maintained; (iii) there is no community hall for meetings and other functions; (iv) there is no armed security personnel and as a result the ATM was bombed twice and the Post Office was robbed of almost R300 000; and (v) there is maintenance problems as the Centre is not properly maintained.

23. Casteel TeleCentre

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by the manager of the TeleCentre, Ms Florence Masinga.

23.1 Overview of Casteel TeleCentre

The TeleCentre forms part of the Thusong Centre and is run by three (3) staff members who receive a stipend from UNISA determined by the number of UNISA students making use of the Centre. It is funded by the Mpumalanga Department of Finance and also generates income through the selling of airtime, electricity and public phones. USAASA provided funding for personal computers, photocopy machines and public phones; and COGTA sponsored five (5) personal computers. The Centre provides the following services: (i) free Internet, (ii) accredited computer training; (iii) photocopying; (iv) typing; and (v) faxing.

23.2 Tour of the Centre

The Committee was taken for a tour and noted the following: (i) the Post Office outlet was in good order and complied with the seven minutes waiting time, and (ii) the lift for people with disabilities was out of order.

23.3 Observations

The Committee noted that the Centre is still run by COGTA and not the municipality and recommends that: (i) the role of the municipality in the Centre must be clarified; and (ii) the issue of Service Level Agreements (SLA) must be finalised immediately.

The Committee commended the work done by GCIS and COGTA at the Centre.

24. Tulamahashe Post Office

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr David Mathumbu, Branch Manager.

24.1 Overview Tulamahashe Post Office

The Post Office was inherited from the previous homelands and is still rented from the local municipality. The client population is 41 889 and it services about 4976 clients per month with 7442 transactions. The main products are mainly Postbank with 3000 deposits and 4000 withdrawals with a pension volume of 497 per month. It receives about 300 handheld parcels, and circulates around 46 000 standard items per month and 13 000 non-standard items.

There are four (4) staff members with one (1) vacant post for a postal assistant that has already been advertised. Street mail delivery is done by one (1) labour broker and five (5) contractor employees.

The Post Office reported that a study on the eradication of labour brokers is currently underway and once completed the contract positions will be advertised. This process should be complete by the end of March 2013.

24.2 Challenges

The Post Office has a challenge with the increase of criminal activities although it has not been affected during the past year. It also does not have a certificate of compliance and there is no counter to assist people with disabilities. A request for funds to install an alarm system has been submitted to Head Office.

24.3 Observations

The Committee noted with concern the use of staff through labour brokers and recommends that a report on the study being conducted to eradicate the use of temporary staff and contracted staff by labour brokers must be provided by 15 April 2012.

25. Bushbuckridge Post Office

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr TL Makhubele, Branch Manager.

25.1 Overview of Bushbuckridge Post Office

It is located in the local shopping Centre, 100km North of Nelspruit CBD. The population of Bushbuckridge is 509 970 with 112 210 households. Post office has 2 308 registered businesses which amongst others include shops, schools and other public Centres. The building comprised of five (5) counters, sorting and box section and back office. The branch falls under the north-east region of Nelspruit. It is operated by eight (8) staff members, which consist of a branch manager, tellers and postal assistants.

The average number of clients or citizens served per month is 13 887. The Post Office offers basic postal and financial services. The total number of transactions performed is 5939 on average. The main products transacted per month are: (i) Postbank deposits (1804); (ii) Postbank withdrawals (2449); (iii) pension payouts (2054); (iv) parcels handled (204); and (v) letters (100264).

The Post Office has a private bag service with 2350 boxes installed and is fully rented. In addition, three (3) lobbies have been erected around different points of the town. The town is also serviced with street delivery services and mail is delivered five (5) times a week. In terms of security, it has an alarm system and bullet-resistance glass infrastructure.

25.2 Observation

The Committee expressed its satisfaction with the operations and management of the Post Office.

DAY 5: Friday, 23 March 2012

The Committee (both groups) visited the SABC Regional Office.

26. SABC Mpumalanga

The Committee and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by Mr Quinton Lenyai, Provincial General Manager.

26.1 Meeting with SABC Management and Staff

26.1.1 Meeting with Management

The provincial management raised the challenges (i) shortage of office space and studios, and the latter limits the expansion of operations; (ii) the building is not National Key Point compliant; (iii) unable to achieve its mandate and generate its own revenue as there is no provincial autonomy; and (iv) government owes the station R9 million in advertising and TV licences revenue.

26.1.2 Staff Compliment

The regional office has a staff compliment of 83 permanent staff members and 82 independent contractors and is structured as follows: 81% African, 12% White, 5% Coloured and 2% Indian with 6% of people with disabilities.

26.1.3 Digital Migration Plans

In response to the SABC mandate, socio-economic issues, transformation and cultural diversity of the country, the Province believes that the latter will best be served through the establishment of dedicated regional TV channel ( Mpumalanga and Limpopo ). The channel will provide a full picture and local perspectives of the regions’ outlook on culture, tradition, language and its peculiarities.

26.1.4 Stakeholder Management

The Province will develop a strategy that is informed by: (i) its legal obligations in the Province; (ii) identification and analysis of its stakeholders; (iii) analysis of current practice; (iv) analysis of the key drivers for change and (v) variety of engagement exercises.

26.1.5 SABC Infrastructure

A total amount of R77 million as approved for the new building of which R4,6 million was used to purchase a site in 2006, a total of R4,5 million was paid to consultants for the detailed building plans and an amount of R5,5 million was used for the purchase of a chiller plant. Permission is awaited to start with the actual building of new offices before end of 2012.

The current building is too old and the owner intends demolishing it and put up two towers but the SABC lease will be renewed for another year or two.

26.1.6 Concerns raised by staff

The staff raised the following concerns: (i) not sure of the s tate of readiness in terms of digital migration; (ii) the field staff is experiencing problems with equipment and this requires immediate intervention especially in those assigned to Swaziland and Mozambique; (iii) staff concerned about their safety when reporting in certain areas; (iv) Ligwalagwala needs to extend its footprint to other areas such as Nkomazi, Piet Retief and other areas as this will contribute to an increased listenership; (v) salary disparities those in Auckland Park earning more than those in Provinces; and (vi) stations from the neighbouring countries have better coverage in the Province than Ligwalagwala FM.

The Committee informed the employees that the above-cited matters are being addressed by the SABC, including the extension of the foot-print coverage of Ligwalagwala FM. However a detailed report of building of the new offices should be submitted to the Committee.

27. Overall Recommendations

The Committee noted with concern that issues rose from other oversight visits in other Provinces still prevalent in this Province, and therefore recommends that: (i) the duplication of roles by the Department and MDDA in provision of equipment for community broadcasters needs to be resolved at a policy level; (ii) Sentech should develop a national plan for total coverage; (iii) a task team comprising of Sentech, SABC and ICASA should be established in all Provinces; (iv) the Department should have capacity to monitor the projects implemented by the state-owned companies; (v) MDDA to speed-up the process to improve accountability of community media; and (vi) MDDA to investigate alternative power for community broadcasters.

Report to be considered.

Documents

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