Public finances Social Covid-19 3 are dangerously development 16 Budget cuts overstretched 8 department A Blow To will focus on Agricultural those who Sector are most vulnerable

Vol. 02 Official newspaper of the Parliament of the Republic of Issue 05 2020

2019/2020 crime stats show decrease in violent crimes, says Minister

All crimes in this category decreased, including burglary at residential premises, which declined by 6.7%. Robbery at residential properties also recorded a decrease.

The Minster of Police, Mr are not where we want to Another important category deployed to address the together with government , briefed the be. However, we are pleased recording a significant growing increase, Minister to defeat the scourge and Portfolio Committee on Police with the improvements in decrease, is property- Cele said. expose perpetrators. on the 2019/20 national the most subborn crime related crimes. All crimes On sexual offences, Mr Cele crime statistics, saying that categories,” he added. The in this category decreased, pointed out that this sort of “It is of concern the statistics provide a clear number of contact crimes, including burglary at crime often happens behind indication of how well the particularly murder, have residential premises, which closed doors and are only that educational South African Police Service halved over the past three declined by 6.7%. Robbery publicised after the offence institutions are (SAPS) is delivering on its years. In 2017/18, the case at residential properties has been committed and mandate to ensure that difference was 1 320, in also recorded a decrease. the victims have passed on. becoming hotbeds South Africans feel safe. 2018/19 the cases difference However, carjacking and Campaigns against gender- for sexual violence. was 686 and in 2019/20 truck hijacking recorded an based violence and femicide The statistics reveal a the SAPS recorded a case increase of 13.3% and 1.7% must be intensified. Private 380 cases of rape were slowing of the increase in difference of 303. respectively. Operational sector and gender activists’ reported at schools, violent crimes. “Indeed, we interventions have been organisations must work

PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA www.parliament.gov.za parliamentofrsa 2 INSESSION NEWS universities, colleges and an arrest or a deployment officers, whilst 12 138 have 2019 firearms amnesty, number of illegal firearms in day-care facilities,” he to a Community Service contracted the virus, with which began on 1 December circulation. In the previous reiterated. Centre suddenly demands a 254 hospitalised and 4 904 2019 and was meant to run amnesty period, 44 033 different standard operating recoveries,” he said. until the end of May 2020, firearms and 246 060 As for the Covid-19, the procedure. was severely affected by rounds of ammunition pandemic has drastically On the proliferation of illegal the outbreak of Covid-19. were surrendered and over redefined traditional policing. “In the call of duty during firearms, this remains a This contributed to the 19 000 applications to renew is the this pandemic, the SAPS major contributor to crime SAPS’s inability to fully licenses were received. new normal and making has lost a 113 police levels in the country. The and effectively reduce the

Police have become the first and last line of defence in the fight against the coronavirus

“The rate of GBV in South Africa is five times higher than the global average. There’s one death too many that is related to GBV in our country.”

odds. He added: “When the world closes, policing to address the safety of “women, children and continues. When businesses close, policing members of the LGBT community”. continues. When there is lockdown, policing She decried the economic conditions of women continues.” in the country. “The introduction of a sustainable social security system would assist our country to Even when more than 95 police lost their lives, eradicate all forms of GBV. The question to ask is: policing continues. He said despite all these do people have confidence in our police service, if challenges, police management worked hard to yes, to what extent?” she asked. ensure that the well-being and morale of the police remain at an all-time high. “In this regard, we need a strong Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) to investigate Minister Bheki Cele Well over R3.7 billion has any kind of criminality. And it should have full jurisdiction in all sectors of policing, including The police have become the first and last line been prioritised to respond to metro and traffic officers.” of defence in the fight against the spread of Covid-19. the coronavirus, hence the National Treasury Rev said that since October last has adjusted the police budget upward by R3.7 Some of the adjusted budget will cater for a year, 103 000 cases have been withdrawn because billion to enable them to enforce the lockdown Covid-19 public education and awareness campaign of poor police investigative capabilities, nine time regulations. That was what the Minister of Police, to facilitate the involvement of community safety more than last year. Of the sexual violence-related Mr Bheki Cele, told Members of the National forums. cases, Rev Meshoe stated that over 65% of them Assembly (NA) in a virtual mini-plenary sitting Regarding GBV, he pointed out that “we should all were withdrawn before they were heard in court. when he presented the Budget Vote for the concur that those who abuse women and children, “It is hardly surprising that according to Afro- Department of Police, writes Abel Mputing. abuse our nation”. Barometer, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is the least trusted institution in South Africa.” Presenting the adjusted budget of the department, The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Mr Cele urged South Africans to hold hands in Police, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson, said the largest He further proclaimed that according to Corruption the fight against the pandemic and not betray threat to future economic growth is crime. She Watch, the SAPS is the most corrupt institution this cause. He dedicated the adjusted budget commended the Minister for ensuring that during in SA. He said: “It is alleged that the police erect to gender-based violence (GBV) and to the Covid-19, the police are in a position to support random stops for extortion than upholding the police’s selfless commitment in the fight against the state “in enforcing the national disaster law.” the spread of the virus. “We find ourselves in regulations with the necessary care and empathy a quagmire of an invisible enemy that attacks that South Africans deserve”. Ms Zukisa Faku decried the increase in the number everyone, including police officers,” declared the of GBV cases. “The rate of GBV in South Africa is Minister. She admitted though that Covid-19 has put an five times higher than the global average. There’s extra burden on the limited resources of the one death too many that is related to GBV in our “Covid-19 has redefined conventional policing,” he Department of Police. As such, she welcomed the country.” claimed, “the current regulations demand different suspension of the sale of alcohol. In her view, operating procedures. The police had to adjust this “will go a long way in reducing violent crime She called upon Minister Cele to see to it that GBV to the 360% turn while not losing their focus on against women and children and lessen the burden cases are prioritised and given the resources they serving and protecting the nation.” of care in the country’s hospitals”. demand so that the state can treat victims with respect and the police be in a better position to He commended the relentless efforts of the She said the committee welcomed the additional arrest the perpetrators of this crime. police who died from contacting the virus and R3.7 billion to the police budget. In her view, this the sacrifices they continue to make against all will place the police to be in a better position PUBLIC FINANCES 3

Public finances are dangerously overstretched

There is an agreement that economic growth is urgent. One of the key projects that the National Treasury will be driving is to work closely with the rest of government to drive a package of Editor reforms to improve productivity, lower costs and reduce demands of state-owned companies on Brent Simons the public purse. Production editor Mava Lukani

regional and international “More significantly, the Design and layout Mind Trix Media cooperation, and continue shortfall reflects the the roll-out of our expectation that the tax base Copy editors improvements to the system will temporarily shrink as Jane Henshall, Vusumzi Nobadula of financial regulation.” businesses close and people Writers lose their jobs.” Abel Mputing, Sakhile Mokoena, Rajaa Azzakani, Brent Simons, There is an agreement that As set out in the Mava Lukani economic growth is urgent. supplementary budget, the Photography One of the key projects that gross borrowing requirement Mlandeli Puzi, the National Treasury will has increased to R776.9 Zwelethemba Kostile be driving is to work closely billion. Gross national Distribution & subscriptions Minister a strong National Treasury, with the rest of government government debt is projected Jacqueline Zils staffed with the best the to drive a package of reforms to increase to R3.97 trillion Publisher country and the world to improve productivity, (or 81.8% of GDP) in in the In presenting the National Parliament of the Republic of have to offer. The National lower costs and reduce current year. “This increase South Africa Treasury Budget Vote during Treasury has set itself a demands of state-owned in debt means that we now a virtual National Assembly Printer three-pronged strategy, and companies on the public budget for a direct charge of mini-plenary sitting, the Vision Enterprises one of those strategies is to purse. These measures, R236 billion for debt service Minister of Finance, Mr Tito achieve sustainable public he said, include finalising costs, which is R7 billion Section Manager: Mboweni said section 216 Publishing and Production finances. “The National electricity determinations, more than we budgeted in of the Constitution of the Shirley Montsho Treasury is on a mission to unbundling Eskom and taking February. Debt is expensive.” Republic and the Public Copyright restore fiscal strength. This other steps to open up Finance Management Act INSESSION is is published by is a minimum condition energy markets, modernising Furthermore, “We have the Information and Content clearly spell out the role Development Unit of the required to South ports and rail infrastructure, continued with our efforts of the National Treasury, Parliamentary Communication Africa for the next pandemic and licensing spectrum. to mobilise funding from reports Mava Lukani. Services of the Parliament or economic shock,” he said. multilateral institutions, to of the Republic of South Africa. All material published is On fiscal outlook, he said date the New Development Accordingly, the National copyrighted and cannot be The second prong is to there is a team in the Bank has approved US$1 reproduced without the written Treasury prepares an strengthen the sound National Treasury which is billion (R16.6 billion) from permission of the publisher. Annual Budget, delivered in financial controls and working tirelessly to deal its Emergency Assistance February, and a Medium Term EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES management of public with the ballooning public Program and the African Telephone 021 403 8738 Budget Policy Statement, Fax 021 403 8096 finances across the public debt. “The public finances are Development Bank has traditionally delivered in E-mail sector. “Our historic response dangerously overstretched. also approved a loan of [email protected] October. This year, he said, to this pandemic would not Without urgent action in approximately US$288 Subscriptions the circumstances have [email protected] have been possible had it the 2021 budget process, million (R4.8 billion).” also required the National Post not been for the cooperation a debt crisis will follow. PO Box 15, Cape Town, 8000 Treasury to prepare a across all arms of the state, Failure to contain debt, the The government has also Supplementary Budget OUR IDEALS facilitated by financial budget deficit and debt applied for US$4.2 billion which he delivered during a Vision control, including the service costs will damage the (R69.7 billion) from the An activist and responsive hybrid sitting of the National people’s Parliament that provincial MECs for Finance, country’s long-term economic International Monetary Fund Assembly in June. improves the quality of life of whose support I highly value. prospects.” under the Rapid Financing South Africans and ensures enduring equality in In this regard, effective Instrument that will be used Mr Mboweni said the our society. intergovernmental relations He reminded Members to provide for direct budget Supplementary Budget Strategic Objectives are critical in ensuring that of Parliament that the financing and, he said, Strengthening oversight and Vote was in support of the accountability; all arms of government work supplementary budget negotiations with the World constitutional and legal enhancing public involvement; closely together to deliver on projected that tax revenue Bank are still underway deepening engagement in responsibilities, underpinned improved living standards for would be R304.1 billion less and more details will be international fora; by the strategic objective to strengthening cooperative all.” in the current year, compared provided once transactions “improve living standards”. government; with the 2020 budget are concluded. “We expect to strengthening legislative capacity. He said: “I cannot overstate The final prong is to estimate. He said revenue raise a total of approximately the urgency of this task in BOOK A TOUR advocate for sound economic shortfalls include tax relief US$7 billion (R116.2 To tour Parliament the context of the current policy in line with the measures amounting to R26 billion) as indicated in the Telephone 021 403 2266 global pandemic, and the E-mail [email protected] President’s direction. “We billion in foregone revenue supplementary budget.” economic devastation it has intend to strengthen our implemented as part of the brought with it.” macroeconomic policy Covid-19 relief package. framework, facilitate He said the country needs 4 INSESSION NEWS

NCOP passes Division of Revenue Amendment Bill

There is also an urgent need to ensure that allocated resources are spent appropriately to avert fruitless and wasteful expenditures. She urged Parliament to utilise its oversight mechanisms to monitor these interventions.

When the National Council Financial Fiscal Commission, accordingly, and in accordance this often affects the poor compromised”. In supporting of Provinces (NCOP) debated as well as the Parliamentary with principles and priorities communities who are entitled the Bill, some provincial the Division of Revenue Budget Office, among others, espoused in the adjusted to these services”. representatives called upon Amendment Bill recently in a to weigh the efficacy of the budget. the National Treasury to virtual sitting, its Chairperson, Treasury’s adjustments in Their capacitation will review the formula it uses Mr , conveyed relation to government’s The provinces should ensure that they dispense in determining provinces’ heartfelt condolences to the response to the pandemic. determine how to appropriate their service delivery equitable share, particularly family, comrades, friends and and prioritise their share obligations. As such, “the the so-called category three family of the late Mr Andrew In addition, the committee of the R20 billion budget National Treasury and other provinces. This matter has Mlangeni, who before his published advertisements allocated to municipalities. financially related state been brought to the attention death was the last surviving in all the major newspapers “That should be done without entities have an obligation of the National Treasury. In member of the Rivonia soliciting comments and disadvantaging the poor areas to assist or intervene in the Free State, for example, trialists, writes Abel Mputing. views, as part of its public of their jurisdictions,” Ms those municipalities that the province won’t be able to participation process that Mahlangu declared. are struggling with financial provide water and sanitation “Andrew Mlangeni was an forms part of the committee’s management capacity, to to some of its rural areas due unwavering democrat, a deliberations before such a Bill She maintained the need to enable them to spend their to budget constraints. revolutionary par excellence, is presented before the NCOP. strengthen the political will funds accordingly”. an architect of the South and administrative capacity of The 2020 Division of Revenue African democratic transition, She said while the committee local government to improved Ms Mahlangu recognised the Amendment Bill addresses a cadre committed to fight was processing the Bill, their “accountability to ensure fact that the National Treasury changes in the equitable against racial injustices to the it observed through the there’s good governance and has to balance the various division of nationally raised very end for a humane and Auditor-General’s report the citizens of South Africa get economic consequences revenue among the three just world,” the Chairperson the deteriorating state value for money”. of Covid-19, to ensure that spheres of government; said. of governance in various In relation to capacity in local “the social transformation changes to provincial municipalities. “The government,” she claimed goals and development conditional grant allocations; Presenting the report of government must improve that “causes of underspending directives aimed at bringing and changes to the local the Select Committee on the financial management should be assessed before about fiscal adjustments and government equitable Appropriations on the Bill, systems at local government. resources are taken away new economic structural share and conditional grant the committee’s Chairperson, There is a need for a resilient from municipalities, because adjustments are not allocations. Ms Dikeledi Mahlangu, audit committee, the commended the National monitoring and the evaluation Treasury’s intervention to of these systems.” repurpose the national budget towards addressing challenges There is also an urgent need posed by the Covid-19 to ensure that allocated THE HOUSE PASSED THE BILL, pandemic. resources are spent WHICH WAS TABLED ON 24 JUNE appropriately to avert fruitless She explained how the and wasteful expenditures. IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY committee had consulted She urged Parliament to utilise widely on the Bill, having its oversight mechanisms to - BY THE MINISTER OF FINANCE, MR TITO MBOWENI spoken to the Congress of the monitor these interventions. South African Trade Unions, She also appealed that the the South African Association funds meant for health of Local Government and the interventions should be spent CURB THE SPREAD OF COVID - 19 5

Mkhize - Communities must play their part in the fight to curb the spread of COVID-19 Giving a report-back on the current model of projection of peaks and possible flattening of the curve, he said to date fewer people have been infected than previously predicted. “We are going ahead with our integrated strategies in anticipation of the peak around August.”

Minister Dr

The Minister of Health, Dr strengthening mechanisms for to mitigate the spread of the exposure of their members to pandemic will cause many Zweli Mkhize, presented detection.” virus. This will happen through infection. problems. It will create untold to a National Assembly coordinated research and job losses, and impact on plenary his department’s This classification measure is ongoing emulation of best Giving a report-back on the businesses and every part of response to Covid-19 since the one strategy embraced by the practices from other countries. current model of projection of our lives. He told the Members announcement of the national department and there is now peaks and possible flattening of the National Assembly that lockdown and various other a big emphasis on community Meanwhile, his department of the curve, he said to date the wave of infections that interventions to fight the engagement as one of the has assisted the provincial fewer people have been South Africans were warned Covid-19 pandemic, writes most effective interventions healthcare system most infected than previously about is now upon us and Abel Mputing. in arresting the spread of affected to get access to predicted. “We are going it knows no race, gender or the virus. “There is a need critical resources. Dr Mkhize ahead with our integrated class. “Government can’t fight From the onset, he warned for community cooperation commended the bravery of strategies in anticipation of the pandemic alone; we need of the worrying spike in and vigilance regarding the the medical frontline staff the peak around August.” our social partners to curb its infections in Gauteng. “We wearing of masks and the who risk their lives to save the spread.” expect Gauteng will soon be change of behaviour.” He lives of others. “These are our He lamented the fact that the the epicentre of this pandemic argued that there is now heroes. We appreciate their in the country. a realisation that that is dedication and commitment where the battle against the to caring,” he said. To avert This has been detected due to pandemic will be won or lost. any political interference that the department’s classification may hamper his department’s of districts as a measure to In the long term, beating the efforts, it now works hand prevent, mitigate infections disease will rely on devising in hand with trade unions to and promote recovery while a vaccine or some other drug address concerns about the

“GOVERNMENT CAN’T FIGHT THE PANDEMIC ALONE; WE NEED OUR SOCIAL PARTNERS TO CURB ITS SPREAD.”

- THE MINISTER OF HEALTH, DR ZWELI MKHIZE 6 INSESSION NEWS NA MPS critically respond to Dr Mkhize’s Covid-19 plan

People make a mistake focussing on the government, rather than their community. “Our health system reflects the severe limitations of the state. Now we pay the price of the deficiency of competency and trust,”

system reflects the severe Also speaking during the limitations of the state. National Assembly plenary, Now we pay the price of the the Chairperson of the deficiency of competency Portfolio Committee on and trust,” she proclaimed. Health, Mr Sibongiseni Mr Nqabayonzi Nkwankwa Dlomo, noted that the of the United Democratic committee is unhappy about Movement said: conditions in the Eastern “Our concern is Cape, after the committee visited the province to that we missed a conduct oversight. Progress golden opportunity in readying health centres to deal with the pandemic to implement is slow and shortages proper testing, in personal protective screening and equipment and personnel is an ongoing problem, he said. contact tracing strategies during However, he commended the health department’s The Minister of Health, Dr the provinces to use their Van Staden said. If we dare level 4 and 5 of Zweli Mkhize, was in the conditional grants, which to return to lockdown level response to the pandemic, National Assembly to present in turn affects their service five, “there would be public lockdown.” which has also been his department’s plan to delivery and their potential demonstration and people praised by the World Health fight the Covid-19 pandemic. to respond to the pandemic. won’t approve of that. He also lamented the Organisation. As a result, MPs then responded to his And we will reach a stage provision of statistics without “South Africa has been statement. Abel Mputing Mr of where people will not die of any critical reflection of invited to present how it reports. the Covid-19, but of poverty.” their correlation to the managed the virus during its said upon the announcement department’s strategic outbreak. That is a sterling Ms Siviwe Gwarube of of lockdown, opposition Ms Elizabeth Sukers of the interventions. achievement; it cannot be the Democratic Alliance political parties supported it, African Christian Democratic The Congress of the People’s simply overlooked.” said coronavirus is the but the surge of infections, Party said those who Mr William Madisha said most destructive and fatal now in Gauteng, is a concern. succumbed to the virus are it’s unfortunate that the In his concluding remarks, pandemic in history. The “In the wake of this surge, mostly those that attend to government is using the Dr Mkhize made an appeal deaths cannot be regarded we called for a return to the sick and dying, who have pandemic as a political tool. that the fight against the merely as fatalities, as in level five in Gauteng,” paid the highest price while “As political parties, we virus should not “divide each case it is someone’s he said. He criticised the in the line of duty. “We owe agree that stern measures us, but unite us”. “No one friend, brother, sister or opening of schools amid the all healthcare workers our had to be taken to curb the possesses a monopoly on colleague. She thanked rise in infections. greatest gratitude.” spread of this pandemic, wisdom of how to curb the frontline workers who are but it has since been used spread of the virus. We are working under impossible “We demand alternative People make a mistake to achieve political ends. In open-minded about any conditions to save lives. Ms measures for the wellbeing focussing on the addition, the Covid-19 fund suggestions that could show Gwarube also emphasised of pupils and teachers.” government, rather than is now at risk from fraud and us our blind spot and we will that the government’s Mr Philippus van Staden their community. “Our health corruption,” he said. work on them.” response should include said the concrete plans and resources believes government has need to be distributed to failed to use the opportunity provinces so that they can granted by lockdown to cope with the number of prepare for rising infections. infections. “Now we see health workers on strike, we see shortages She criticised the R20 billion of beds, oxygen, and a pledged by the government shortage of doctors and towards fighting the effects nurses.” of the pandemic. She said this amount is not a stimulus The pandemic has laid bare package, but rather a pre-existing weaknesses reprioritisation of existing in the health system and budget. In her view, it forces brought it to its knees, Mr COVID-19 PLAN 7

Committees On Health not happy with the Eastern Cape’s covid-19 interventions

“We are not happy with certain things that are happening, but we commend the work that is being done by the PMU,” he said.

The portfolio and the select Health will apply section 100 communities to hospitals. In committees on health received of the Constitution, as the response Ms Gomba said the a briefing on the state of Eastern Cape Department of procurement of scooters had provincial health services from Health is unable to deal with already been explained by the Eastern Cape’s project the pandemic. Dr Mkhize Premier Oscar Mabuyane. management unit (PMU) in a responded by saying that virtual joint meeting. Opening there is no need for that On the problem of the lack the joint meeting, the Minister intervention at the moment of oxygen at hospitals, Dr of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize said referring to the Constitution Mkhize told the committees that although the Eastern Cape to outline when such an that the Department of has many challenges, they intervention is mandated. Health is negotiating with are not beyond the capacity manufacturers to ensure that of the provincial Department Members of the committees provincial hospitals have of Health or the PMU, writes told Ms Gomba and Dr Zungu sufficient supply. The issues Mava Lukani. that the time for planning raised by the committees is over. It is now time for on staffing, ambulances, The committees were also implementation and saving corruption, shortages in briefed by the MEC for Health, people’s lives. They also oxygen supply, and other Ms Sindiswa Gomba, and demanded timeframes from infrastructure challenges are members of the PMU, under MEC Gomba and Dr Zungu. matters that the Department THE TIME FOR PLANNING IS the leadership of Dr Sibongile of Health is well versed in and Zungu. PMU is a support One committee member, are being attended to by the OVER. IT IS NOW TIME FOR team of experts appointed Ms Sive Gwarube, said the province. IMPLEMENTATION AND SAVING by Dr Mkhize to assist the province has no clear response PEOPLE’S LIVES. province with its Covid-19 to Covid-19 and that the PMU’s The Chairperson for the interventions. Dr Zungu presentation lacks timelines. Portfolio Committee on - THE SELECT COMMITEES ON HEALTH briefed the committees on In addition, referring rural Health, Dr Sibongiseni epidemiological projections, patients to metros made Dhlomo, said even though the surgical capacity, human no sense, as metro facilities PMU’s report lacked detail, resource management, supply are already overwhelmed. it is reassuring to receive of oxygen, data collection Members also wanted more reports on the work being tools and ambulances. She explanation about Nelson done in the province. After the painted a picture of lack of Mandela Metro’s Dora Nginza committee’s oversight in the capacity in the provincial and Livingston hospitals, Eastern Cape in June this year, public healthcare in each and which have been in the news the Chairperson has noted every area of the provincial for all the wrong reasons. significant progress. “We are healthcare system. not happy with certain things Ms Gomba was asked to that are happening, but we During the discussions, explain the problem of commend the work that is members of the committees scooters bought by the Eastern being done by the PMU,” he asked Dr Mkhize when the Cape Department of Health to said. national Department of transport patients from rural 8 INSESSION NEWS

Social development department will focus on those who are most vulnerable

The department’s budget was reduced from R197.7 billion to R182.24 billion. However, when the National Treasury presented the supplementary budget, that is government’s funding response to Covid-19, the department received an additional R25.5 billion.

Minister our society, and bettering the to R182.24 billion. However, as no additional funding was quality of life of every South when the National Treasury received for this function in When Minister Lindiwe Zulu African. Our focus is on those presented the supplementary the current financial year. presented the Budget Vote who are most vulnerable,” she budget, that is government’s As such, Ms Zulu said, these of the Department of Social added. funding response to Covid-19, costs will be funded from re- Development to the National the department received an prioritised budget. Council of Provinces (NCOP), This budget vote calls upon additional R25.5 billion. This she said she presented it in all South Africans to muster amount, according to Ms Ms Delmaine Christians who the eye of a turbulent storm the requisite courage to Zulu, was supplemented by a represents the unlike any faced before, innovate extraordinary policy, R15.48 billion reduction from Province in the NCOP for the writes Mava Lukani. programmatic and service the baseline, and thereby Democratic Alliance (DA), delivery initiatives, and bringing the total budget said the people are in despair The Department of Social society-wide partnerships allocation for the Covid-19 because of the ruling party’s Development is counted that are intentionally targeted response to R40 955 billion. broken promises. The DA among those in the frontlines, at flattening the curves of salutes the healthcare workers she said. “It is in this regard,” inequalities, poverty, hunger, The department’s annual who are at the forefront in the she continued, “that we gender-based violence and budget was readjusted struggle against Covid-19, she who participated in the urgently assumed a stance by femicide, youth economic upwards to R223.2 billion said. budget debate supported which we are strengthening exclusion and substance for the current financial year the department’s budget. the capabilities of our abuse. (2020/21). This is a significant The government’s increase The MECs also highlighted programmes relative to the budget increase of 8.13% in social grants and the the achievements of their challenges that accompany Ms Zulu told the NCOP that when the inflation rate is at R350 offered to the needy departments in their the Covid-19 pandemic.” the measures outlined in her 4.6%. The increase was caused as strategies to mitigate the provinces. department’s adjusted budget by budget reallocations to effects of Covid-19 have failed According to her, the are directed at responding three budget items, namely: because of poor and corrupt Mr Andrew Arnolds of the challenges demand the not only to the pandemic, but social assistance grants – R15. administration in the Social Economic Freedom Fighters department formulates and also to enable “our people to 4 million; early childhood Development department. Too who represents the Western implements responsive, rebound to productive lives development (ECD) conditional many people became victims Cape Province in the NCOP impactful and qualitatively faster, thereby ensuring that grants – R64.5 million, of poverty, notwithstanding said the EFF objects to the life-improving solutions. they actively define and build and operational funding – those plans of mitigation. She department’s budget. The “Within the context of the our collective future: the South R56 million. called on the minister to cut EFF lost all hope in the Covid-19 pandemic our Africa we want and the citizen all the red tape. department when it politicised programmatic responses are that we want to inhabit it”. South African Social the distribution of food guided by the mandate to Security Agency (Sassa’s) The MECs for the Eastern Cape, parcels. work hard and smart towards The department’s budget was administrative costs remain Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, improving what is good for reduced from R197.7 billion unchanged at R7.7 million, North West and Mpumalanga

“THE MANDATE IS BETTERING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF EVERY SOUTH AFRICAN.”

- THE MINISTER OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT, LINDIWE ZULU BUDGETS AND PLANS DUE TO COVID - 19 9

Basic Education department reprioritises budget and plans due to Covid-19 - NCOP

“The longer our children are deprived of education, the poorer our nation will become,” Ms Christians said.

Minister

Delegates to the National by President . concerns about the budget poor communities without start, warned against the Council of Provinces (NCOP) Minister Motshekga informed cuts. “The reduction of the resources such as the internet. opening of the schools as expressed concerns during the NCOP that the raging infrastructure budget across all “The longer our children schools, particularly in rural a virtual budget debate on debate on whether schools provinces is cause for concern. are deprived of education, areas, are not prepared Basic Education regarding should be closed because Furthermore, the reduction of the poorer our nation will for Covid-19. The IFP also a decrease in provincial of Covid-19 involve all the conditional grant is also become,” Ms Christians said. had questions about the conditional grants due to the stakeholders, including concerning as this grant is also Although this view was shared reprioritisation of the redirection of funds to Covid- parents. The department used to support programmes by some political parties, conditional grants supporting 19-related expenditure, writes presented all these views like maths and science.” others felt it is not to the mathematics, science and Rajaa Azzakani. to the Covid-19 National benefit of learners to continue technology programmes. “We Command Team for the Mr Lesufi said the advice on with schooling during what need to ensure that no child Delivering her Budget Cabinet to take a decision on the schooling sector relating they described as the “peak” is left behind as we deal with Vote speech in the NCOP the matter. to Covid-19 has always been of the pandemic in August and the pandemic,” he added. recently, the Minister of expert driven and expert September. the Department of Basic The Chairperson of Select guided. “Our advice has Education, Ms Angie Committee on Education always been expert driven. We Ms Seneanye Lehihi of the Motshekga, told NCOP and Technology, Sports, Arts depend on expert advice. Our Economic Freedom Fighters delegates that her department and Culture, Mr Mamagase advice should remain expert said: “We demand that all had to reprioritise its plans Elleck Nchabaleng, said the driven and not economic schools remain closed. When due to budget cuts. The infrastructure backlog would driven.” we had 100 confirmed cases department’s baseline budget be further affected, as funds of Covid-19 infections, we was reduced by R2.1 billion, now have to be diverted to Ms Delmaine Christians of closed schools. Now we while those of the provincial Covid-19-related expenses. the Democratic Alliance (DA) have more than 10 000 departments combined were “This may result in the said it is for the benefit of daily infection cases and we reduced by R1.5 billion. This suspension or termination of the country’s children that want to open schools. This is is an overall decrease in some planned infrastructure schools remain open and are murderous.” The EFF rejected the baseline for the basic projects.” adequately provided for. The the adjusted budget. education sector of R3.6 DA believes the benefits of billion. These cuts contributed Participating in the debate, the opening the schools exceed Mr Simo Mfayela of the towards the R500 billion Gauteng MEC for Education, Mr the negatives, and that closing Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) stimulus package announced Panyaza Lesufi, also expressed schools will be disastrous for said his party has, from the 10 INSESSION NEWS

Basic Education must blacklist unscrupulous PPE suppliers - Committee on Appropriations

“hijacking of contracts” and called on the department to involve the police. This practice, which is common in rural areas, is when contractors who had lost the bid or at times didn’t even apply, disrupt the project and demand a 30% stake from the winning bidder.

Unscrupulous suppliers who the health standards for the was importing stationery from wanted to know why the activities that had closed deliver substandard personal prevention of coronavirus. China and why items as small department was leasing the down or were going to close. protective equipment (PPE) as pencils and rubbers can’t equipment instead of buying We are now buying our masks and sanitisers to schools must Some of the sanitisers be procured in South Africa, the equipment. locally,” said Mr Mweli. be exposed and blacklisted, supplied are just water, Basic Education Minister Ms He also told the committee members of the Standing far below the 70% alcohol Angie Motshekga said there Minister Motshekga said the that the cuts resulting from Committee on Appropriations requirement. It was alleged were only three stationery national department could the budget adjustment were told the Department of Basic that the fake sanitisers are companies supplying South not take responsibility for going to impact negatively on Education (DBE) recently common in the Eastern Cape’s Africa and they do not have that decision by the province. infrastructure, and a number during a virtual meeting Alfred Nzo District. adequate capacity to serve the “We are not able to take of projects that were supposed where the impact of the needs of the whole country. responsibility. I am equally to be rolled out this year will recent budget adjustment The committee also shocked and disgusted be put on hold. on the department’s ability condemned the “hijacking of “The department must about the tablets reports. to carry out its mandate was contracts” and called on the also help in the process of The Premier and MEC have discussed, writes Sakhile department to involve the igniting local manufacturing. instituted an investigation Mokoena. police. This practice, which Every time we import, that into the procurement of ICT is common in rural areas, is contributes negatively to equipment in the Eastern Cape Members of the committee when contractors who had lost the economy, let’s buy RSA Province,” the Minister told said the government cannot the bid or at times didn’t even products,” said committee the committee. work with people who want apply, disrupt the project and Chairperson Mr Sfiso Buthelezi. to maximise profit at the demand a 30% stake from The department’s Director- expense of the lives of the the winning bidder. Members General, Mr Mathanzima learners and teachers. Such of Parliament called this a The department was also Mweli, told members of suppliers should be blacklisted sabotage of service delivery questioned about recent the committee that the and even charged with and proposed that the police reports that the Eastern Cape department was buying murder. Their concern follows should be involved to deal Provincial Department of masks locally and no longer in reports that some companies with such incidents. Education was planning to China, as was the case at the contracted by the department spend R400 million to lease beginning of the coronavirus were providing PPE and Responding to a question tablets for learners. MPs outbreak. “We have now sanitisers that didn’t meet about why the department (Members of Parliament) stimulated manufacturing BASIC EDUCATION 11

The 2020 academic programme will be completed, Minister Nzimande assures NCOP

The net suspension amounts to R1.734 billion for normal voted funds. The adjustments budget also provides for the reduced collection of skills levies of R8.122 billion.

In his policy debate speech of which R4.999 billion is into account the additional on the Department of Higher reallocated for reprioritising costs due to Covid-19. Education and Training to expenditure towards Covid-19 Funds were reprioritised the National Council of activities. by institutions from their Provinces (NCOP), Minister block grants and earmarked Dr , took The net suspension amounts grants to develop teaching the opportunity to share his to R1.734 billion for normal and learning platforms to

department’s achievements voted funds. The adjustments accommodate remote teaching Minister Blade Nzimande and challenges as they battle budget also provides for the and learning. Universities with the Covid-19 pandemic reduced collection of skills will suspend some current and its effect on the poor, levies of R8.122 billion. approved projects due to the reports Mava Lukani. “The department’s original reprioritisation and cuts to the allocation for 2020/21 was value of about R3.851 billion. “We now know that Covid-19 reduced from R116.857 billion has turned the global to R107.000 billion. That As for the National Student economy upside down and represents a reduction of 8%.” Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), brought about the broadest adjustments outlined by collapse in per capita incomes The biggest single reduction is Dr Nzimande, include the since 1870,” Dr Nzimande on the declined estimates for suspension and reallocation began. “Throughout the world, the skills levy collections, from of R2.5 billion earmarked for tens of millions of workers R19.413 billion to R11.291 student devices. However, the have lost their jobs and in billion, a reduction of R8.122 department has objected to South Africa unemployment billion (42%). Dr Nzimande this and the matter is currently increased by one percentage noted that the purpose of with the National Treasury. point, reaching 30.1% in the the re-allocation of funds first three months of this is to cater for reprioritised Dr Nzimande said NSFAS year.” expenditure towards expects a decrease in the addressing Covid-19-related collection of recoveries, due to The South African economy activities, including student the impact of Covid-19 on the is now expected to contract support. economy. All key performance by 7.2% in 2020, and this indicators are currently being is the largest contraction in The budget provides for the reviewed for Covid-19 impact WE STAND UNITED IN THE FIGHT nearly 90 years. Inflation shifting of R1.510 million and details will be provided AGAINST CORONAVIRUS AND ITS will likely register 3% in within the department’s when available. 2020. “In response to these operational expenditure for IMPACT ON THE SECTOR.” challenges in our sector,” he Covid-19 expenditure. The Although permanent delegates MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND continued, “we have sought cuts are mainly on items such to the NCOP supported the to work together with other as travel, accommodation, department’s budget, Ms TECHNOLOGY - BLADE NZIMANDE government departments, our venues and related services. S’lindile Luthuli, representing entities, our universities and The department is in the KwaZulu-Natal in the NCOP colleges, student leadership, process of amending the for the Economic Freedom with close collaboration with 2020/21 annual performance Fighters (EFF), rejected the the private sector and labour plan, as well as the strategic budget. The EFF believes the to ensure that we stand united plan for 2020-2025 to budget perpetuates historical in the fight against coronavirus accommodate the impact of inequalities and deepens the and its impact on the sector.” the adjustments. suffering of black people. The grant that was meant The final special adjustments All universities have submitted for meals is now used to buy budget cut for the Department multi-modal teaching, learning laptops, in the EFF’s view. for 2020/21 is R9.857 billion. and assessment plans to The total suspension of funds enable them to complete the amounts to R6.734 billion, 2020 academic year, taking 12 INSESSION NEWS

Cooperative Governance Budget Vote – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Ms

“Yes, while we were dealing with the good and the bad of local government, the ugly of the Covid-19 pandemic emerged.

Participating in the emerged. However, unlike Covid-19 pandemic by the Covid-19-related expenditure to appropriate authorities for Department of Cooperative the guns and dynamite of the World Health Organisation. to ensure that there is no investigation. It also provides Governance and Traditional once popular movie The Good, spending on salaries or other the office with remedial Affairs’ (Cogta) Budget Vote the Bad and the Ugly, we The committee is determined non-Covid-related expenditure. powers, including the recovery debate, the Chairperson of need to apply resolve, hard to ensure accountability of money lost because of the the Portfolio Committee on work, innovation, common in municipal spending of The committee has agreed irregularities.” Cooperative Governance and sense and team work to Covid-19 funds, particularly on an oversight plan and Although the majority of Traditional Affairs, Ms Faith overcome the dismal realities as some municipalities have a programme to address members supported the Muthambi, mentioned that we are confronted with.” been in the spotlight for challenges, including adjustment budget, the when conducting oversight abusing these funds. “We ensuring that the entities Economic Freedom Fighters over municipalities the The committee welcomed have already called some of responsible for supporting and the African Christian committee sees “first-hand the department’s special these municipalities to come local government are fulfilling Democratic Party rejected the conquered frontiers and adjustment budget, in to Parliament to account. We their commitments. For the adjusted budget. They progress, on the one hand, as particular the proposed also came out and demanded example, the South African highlighted corruption in well as the unmet challenges upward adjustment, from accountability when we heard Local Government Association municipalities and the recent and utter stagnation, on the R96.2 billion to R107.1 the heart-breaking stories must intensify the demand for negative audit outcomes other hand”, writes Mava billion in the Department of of councillors who looted accountability from member report for the 2018/19 Lukani. Cooperative Governance’s food parcels meant for poor municipalities. financial year, released by the budget. households,” she said. Auditor-General, as grounds The committee sees excellence “The Office of the Auditor- for the rejection. Worst of all, in those municipalities that This department is at the Ms Muthambi urged the General is also starting to they argued, there are no have achieved clean audits for heart of the national Covid-19 National Treasury and the implement the provisions of consequences for corruption. several years, but mediocrity response in two ways. First, Department of Cooperative the amended Public Audit somewhere else, where a Ms Muthambi explained, Governance to intensify the Act, which empowers it to state entity has failed to it is responsible for the monitoring municipalities’ refer material irregularities address the water problems in implementation of disaster a ward for more than a year. It management regulations, is in this context of the good, which are guiding the country the bad and the ugly that through the various stages “I URGE THE NATIONAL TREASURY AND THE the committee approaches of the national lockdown. DEPARTMENT OF COOPERATIVE GOVERNANCE this budget vote debate, Ms The regulations give effect to TO INTENSIFY THE MONITORING Muthambi explained. President Cyril Ramaphosa’s MUNICIPALITIES” “Yes, while we were dealing declaration of a national state - THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC SERVICE AND ADMINISTRATION, MS with the good and the bad of of disaster in South Africa MUTHAMBI local government, the ugly on 15 March 2020, following of the Covid-19 pandemic the declaration of the global COOPERATIVE GOVERNANCE BUDGET VOTE 13

We will resist the unlawful occupation of land in the same way that we have resisted the eviction of people – Minister Sisulu

1 500 approved beneficiaries from Khuthong informal settlements are being relocated into their homes

community of Wilgeheuwel us with what the Marshall added. in Roodepoort. She said in Plan provided Western Europe On title deeds, Ms. Sisulu less than three weeks the [after the Second World War],” said: “We maintain our focus department was able to she said. to eradicate backlogs in provide 70 families with registering title deeds. As we decent shelter, water and As part of the response to stated before, a title deed sanitation. Covid-19, the department empowers a household to fast-tracked the launch of be certain of the ownership In the Eastern Cape, the Elijah Barayi Mega Project of the house they live in and department is building 1 in Gauteng, where 1 500 frees them to participate in 000 temporary housing units approved beneficiaries the property market.” (TRUs) in Buffalo City at from Khuthong informal Duncan Village. These will settlements are being In that regard, she said the fast-track the implementation relocated into their homes. priority is to complete all of the Duncan Village housing the outstanding township project, which has been Hostels have also been proclamations required to delayed for a while through identified as overcrowded register title deeds. The court processes. spaces that endanger people’s funding for title deeds will lives. Mamelodi Hostel, for henceforth form part of Minister In Gauteng, TRUs are being example, is one of the most the Human Settlements rolled out to provide space overcrowded hostels in the Development Grant, and so The advent of Covid-19 more, deliver differently, for social distancing. Among country. As part of a de- forms part of the mainstream changed everything, including deliver faster. “Driven by the others, Zandspruit will yield densification programme programmes. plans of the Department of pandemic, what we have 1 402 units, Tanganani Ext 7 there, the department is Human Settlements that were been able to achieve in the will yield 1 108, and Rabbie constructing more than 1 000 On land grabs and evictions: presented previously to a mini- past five months has been Ridge will yield 1 200 units. In temporary residential units for “We will resist the unlawful plenary budget debate vote of nothing but outstanding. It the immediate term, she said, the hostel’s residents. occupation of land in the same the National Assembly (NA) – may not have been part of our the Housing Development way that we have resisted the and the pandemic has changed original plans, but it showed Agency (HDA) will assist the Ms. Sisulu said, together with eviction of people,” Ms. Sisulu even the way people live. our ability to respond to any government to build 6 371 the provinces, her department stated. “The Constitution is That was what the Minister of situation as it unfolded,” she TRUs across the country – is working with communities very clear on these and the Human Settlements, Water and added. with other provinces such as and municipalities to processes to be followed. Sanitation, Ms. Lindiwe Sisulu, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and incrementally upgrade more Lawlessness does not reflect told Members of the NA, She said at the back of this Eastern Cape building more than 300 informal settlements progressive ideals.” writes Mava Lukani. pandemic they have gained greater impetus, provided with the private sector. to improve living conditions in households. R2.4 billion Presenting her budget debate society with greater insight She told members of the and R2.2 billion have been speech for the Department of into the urgency and need National Assembly that allocated to provinces and Human Settlements, Ms. Sisulu for shelter and showed the Human Settlements is well- metros respectively in the said Covid-19 has agitated for department for what it is – “a placed to provide economic current budget, towards solutions here and now. “It caring department, ready to stimulus after the pandemic. the upgrading of informal incidentally thrust innovation reach out and find solutions “We have shown the private settlements. in our face. It created a certain to most of the problems sector, we have shown the urgency around making sure we encountered, including, donor community and we “The need to improve that people are protected from unfortunately evictions and have shown our people that living conditions in informal the elements and consequently invasions”. we are a dependable team. settlements became even most of the plans we laid out We would like them to invest more pressing. The upgrading had to be delayed,” she said. Ms. Sisulu highlighted her department’s successes in in us, support us and join us plans that were already in our work to achieve a more agreed with communities and Ms. Sisulu said the plans her speech, including the equitable social order. Mass municipalities needed to be have been replaced by an innovative ways they have housing delivery will provide implemented instantly,” she even greater drive to deliver housed people, notably the 14 INSESSION NEWS There are no easy answers as we face a ‘perfect storm’ – Minister Patel

“The committee also told the Mayors to present detailed plans from both cities on the enforcement of the regulations and social distancing recommendations.”

“To improve the capacity of the state, the department will review the performance of the 17 public entities falling under his department...,” Mr said

Minister Abraham Patel

The Minister of Trade and series of sectoral masterplans Mandela Bay, eThekwini, procurement and advance Industry, Mr Ebrahim Patel, designed to build resilience in Buffalo City and Pretoria.” regional integration. Another acknowledged the tough times the domestic economy,” he Mr Patel told the NA MPs that is looking at enhancing worker we are living in and extended said. the department’s budget has empowerment at company his sincere condolences to been cut quite substantially level.” the thousands of families He told Members of the NA by R1.8 billion to reprioritise who have lost loved ones that together with the leaders state resources. “There are no To improve the capacity of to Covid-19. Mr Patel was of business and labour, they easy answers and we are faced the state, the department will introducing the Department on have forged consensus on the by what some call a ‘perfect review the performance of Trade and Industry’s budget masterplans to grow jobs and storm’. Yet it is precisely in this the 17 public entities falling vote in a hybrid plenary of the production in four sectors: most difficult moment that we under his department, identify National Assembly, reports Auto production, clothing and as South Africans will need to opportunities to consolidate Mava Lukani. textiles, poultry, and sugar. find our resilient core,” he said. and merge some entities and His department committed address underperformance and The budget vote focused last year to expand markets To repair the damage of in the case of the NLC promote on three areas: the for South African products Covid-19 and reconstruct the greater transparency and accomplishments and and facilitate entry to those economy to create more jobs, improved governance. challenges of the past year, the markets through trade bring more young people department’s response to the measures that will build “our into entrepreneurship and “History suggests that from impact of Covid-19; and finally, resilience in relation to global increase economic inclusion, the greatest human crises, the the department’s action plan economic shocks”. the government needs to think greatest human advances can for the future. “We are guided boldly and implement smartly. be made. So, in the darkest by the principle of building To illustrate progress, the hour, we must prepare for a resilience in everything we department concluded an The situation requires better brighter future – at the heart of do,” he said. agreement with the United coordination, fresh thinking which must lie a new economy Kingdom to maintain access for and a different way of working, – fit for future purpose, fair and Before the pandemic, his South African-made goods in which is why “I have engaged just, sustainable and resilient department made solid their market following Brexit. talented persons inside and so that future shocks can be progress in each of these areas, In addition, a new record of outside the public sector to absorbed,” concluded despite significant economic almost 390 000 locally-made enrich our thinking. Mr Patel. headwinds. “First, we cars were exported to the undertook to support improved rest of the world. “Thousands One team is looking at industrial performance, of jobs were sustained in ideas on the just-transition dynamism and competitiveness the making of those cars in to a greener economy and of local companies, through a factories in Uitenhage, Nelson proposals to leverage local INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 15

A more radical strategy is needed to free Palestine

You must use your own experience of reconciliation to give substance to Mandela’s saying that South Africa cannot be free as long as Palestinians are being oppressed.”

Parliament needs to adopt a from the University of the he said, “must consider a “It is critical that parliament the solution. more radical strategy to secure Witwatersrand’s Department ban of all products coming sign the UN Convention peace and an independent of Sociology, and Mr Na’eem from settlements in occupied on ” and drive a Participants agreed that state for the people of Jeenah, the Executive Director Palestine” while working with campaign to put the apartheid South Africa had to do a Palestine. This position was of the Afro-Middle East Centre. the United Nations and all practices of Israel back on the thorough assessment of all supported by both the Deputy other structures to end “all UN agenda, he said. Israeli products being sold Secretary to Parliament, Mr Prof Greenstein likened the security cooperation, training in South Africa. They called , and the current situation in Palestine and arms purchases” as these Prof Greenstein further called on the Department of Trade deputy chairperson of the to that of ethnic cleansing. only benefitted the “oppressive on government and Parliament and Industry to properly scan National Council of Provinces, He said the rise of apartheid Israeli regime”. “to act positively to enhance products coming from Israel Ms , writes Brent in Israel and South Africa had its capacity to work with all and to ban those produced Simons its roots in 1948 when Israel Mr Jeenah added that it was groups to resolve the current and packaged by Israelis on was forcefully created and important that South Africa crisis in the Middle East. You occupied territory. Addressing the virtual Nelson apartheid formalised in South spearheaded an international must use your own experience Mandela Lecture themed Africa. campaign to isolate Israel and of reconciliation to give Participants also agreed that “Each one, Teach One - the free Palestine. substance to Mandela’s saying the current international Power to Transform the World: He called for the adoption of a that South Africa cannot be silence on plans by Israel Mandela in Conversation with strategy of solidarity to unite Prof Greenstein, Mr Jeenah free as long as Palestinians are to annex more Palestinian Palestine”, Mr Tsenoli and Ms all those opposed to Israel. This and other participants called being oppressed.” territory had to be broken and Lucas agreed that South African strategy must focus on people on South Africa to formally cut called on South Africa to take needs a more aggressive within Israel sympathetic diplomatic ties with Israel. Mr Member of Parliament and the lead in this campaign. The agenda to deal with and to the cause of establishing Jeenah added that South Africa former ambassador Mr starting point must be robust hopefully resolve the issue of a an independent Palestinian should use its membership Mohammed Dangor cautioned interaction with both the free Palestine. state. This could be achieved, of the United Nations (UN) that any strategy would first Israelis and Palestinians. Prof Greenstein believes, by Security Council and its position have to “bring about maximum The Nelson Mandela lecture transforming existing South as chairperson of the African unity amongst Palestinians” was addressed by Associate African policy and attitudes Union “to give concreteness to themselves. He agreed that the Professor Ran Greenstein towards Israel. “Parliament” the struggle to free Palestine”. two-state option was no longer

SOUTH AFRICA SHOULD USE ITS MEMBERSHIP OF THE UNITED NATIONS (UN) SECURITY COUNCIL AND ITS POSITION AS CHAIRPERSON OF THE AFRICAN UNION “TO GIVE CONCRETENESS TO THE STRUGGLE TO FREE PALESTINE” - THE DIRECTOR OF THE AFRO-MIDDLE EAST CENTRE, MR NAEEM JEENAH 16 INSESSION NEWS

Covid-19 Budget cuts A Blow To Agricultural Sector Still Reeling From Drought, Says Minister Didiza

“We reiterate our call to farmers, farmworkers and traditional leaders to work together to expand food production and ensure food security.”

Minister

In presenting the Department remedies through the voucher million and the Ingonyama agricultural sector to transform urban-rural market linkages, of Agriculture, Land Reform system. Trust received an amount of the ownership patterns of our and thus yield positive and Rural Development’s R22 million. economy.” economic spin-offs for our rural budget vote in a virtual Government has had to agricultural communities.” mini plenary of the National adjust budget allocations for The impact of cuts in the He said the support and Assembly recently, Ms Thoko competing needs. The initial budget has meant that the the inclusion of small and Budget cuts have impacted Dididza said no one could allocation for the department department has had to make emerging black farmers into on one of the most important have predicted the blow in the February budget vote difficult trade-offs in an effort the mainstream agricultural departmental programmes of Covid-19 would inflict when was R16.8 billion. This was re- to impact a little as possible economy is an essential the department, namely food the President tabled the State adjusted to R14.4 billion during on the delivery of services ingredient towards radical security. “We reiterate our of the Nation Address and the supplementary budget vote within the sector. The greatest economic transformation of call to farmers, farmworkers presented the government’s on 24 June 2020, a reduction of portion of the cuts of R1.89 the sector. It is important to and traditional leaders to plans for the year in February, just under R2.4 billion. “We are billion within the department ensure increased investment work together to expand food reports Mava Lukani. appreciative that these cuts did are in the programmes that into rural infrastructure production and ensure food not affect critical Medium-Term deliver on food security, land support programmes that will security.” The closure of some sectors of allocations for biosecurity and redistribution and restitution. support farmer production the economy has meant the supporting exports amounting units located in the 44 districts loss of agricultural markets and to R495.1 million and R500 These programmes are central of South Africa. “Equally we has threatened the job security million to finalise land claims.” to achieving food security need investment in social of farm workers. “Covid-19 and economic transformation infrastructure such as rural became an added blow given The cuts were not extended through redress and equitable roads and this will contribute the challenges that we were to the Agricultural Research access to producer support. to the effective realisation of already facing in respect of Council, which was already Food security had cuts of R939 drought, animal and plant experiencing cash flow million, land redistribution and disease outbreaks,” said Ms challenges. The department’s tenure reform R544 million and Didiza. R14.4 billion allocation for land restitution R403 million. the 2020/2021 budget also In the previous months “we includes transfers to provincial Ms Didiza told Members of the have seen the impact of departments of agriculture, as NA that the rural development Covid-19 to food security part of the division of revenue. budget had a cut of R199.7 in our own country, in the These allocations relate to: million, which will negatively continent and globally. In our Ilima/Letsema Conditional affect rural social infrastructure own country it has shown the Grants – R428 million; CASP and schemes to improve fault lines that still exist in our Infrastructure Grant – R965 irrigation. The department’s agriculture and food system.” million; CASP Upgrade of budget allocation has been cut Colleges – R25 million; and from R 16.8 billion to R14.4 The government has CASP Extension Services – R214 billion. intervened to cushion million. smallholder and commercial Participating in the budget farmers from the disruptions Other transfers are to debate, the Chairperson of caused by the pandemic. agricultural entities, such the Portfolio Committee on Small holding and subsistence as the Agricultural Research Agriculture, Land Reform and farmers have been assisted Council, which received a grant Rural Development, Inkosi through production inputs, of R1.271 billion. The National Mandla Mandela said: “We are animal feed, agricultural Agriculture Marketing Council encouraged by the confidence Inkosi Zwelivelile Mandela remedies and livestock stock received an amount R47.4 that the government has in the REST IN PEACE DR ANDREW MLANGENI 17

Deputy Minister says job creation remains her department’s chief mandate

The department aims to support 6 000 small and medium-sized enterprises.

The Deputy Minister of the well over R343 million from Department of Labour and the UIF to create jobs and Employment, Ms Boitumelo training opportunities for the Moloi, told National Council of youth and women. And R5.9 Provinces (NCOP) permanent million has been set aside for delegates how the Department the Centre for Conciliation, of Labour and Employment will Mediation and Arbitration utilise its adjusted budget to (CCMA) to preserve jobs. respond to challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, In addition, the department reports Abel Mputing. aims to support 6 000 small and medium-sized enterprises. Appearing before a recent Given the impact of the End of a special virtual plenary of the NCOP Covid-19 lockdown regulations, for the department’s Budget the department requires generation as the last Vote debate, Ms Moloi said a “consummate response job creation still remains the in line with government’s department’s chief mandate. social solidarity. To date, R34 Rivonia trialist passes on The R3.6 billion in the adjusted billion has been distributed to budget will be prioritised to employers and employees to secure employment and to provide income support”. Ms and National Council of Provinces Chairperson initiate programmes to give Mr Amos Masondo, sent condolences on behalf of Parliament to the employees easy access to the In addition, the Compensation Mlangeni family, the African National Congress and friends of Dr department’s Covid-19 relief Fund has ensured that services. workers “get compensated for Mlangeni. contracting the virus while at “Currently, we have 24 mobile work, including the temporary units in all the provinces, disbursement of medicine, Dr Andrew Mlangeni, who as an unassuming and humble fighters who were driven aimed at taking our services covering of their medical passed away in July, was leader, “a remarkable patriot by a commitment to the to the people. This is done to expenses, and of survivors’ a founding Member of and the moral conscience freedom of all South Africans. reduce the cost of services, of benefits and funerals in cases South Africa’s democratic of our nation until the end. Former president reaching our labour centres and of death”. Parliament. He served in many South Africa has lost a father, described Dr Mlangeni, as as a means of maintaining the parliamentary committees a warrior, a long-standing an outstanding leader and a principles of social distancing Ms Moloi also commended as a paragon of selflessness, servant and the glue that revolutionary. Theirs’ was a through our online registration the National Economic integrity and dedication. bound our nation”. generation prepared to pay facilities,” Ms Moloi said. Development and Labour the heavy price of laying Council for providing leadership After hearing about Dr Dr Mlangeni was the sole down their lives to attain that One example of this is the and directives in various Mlangeni’s passing, the surviving Rivonia trialist. freedom. revamp of Unemployment sectors of the economy. Presiding Officers of He was released after 27 Insurance Fund (UIF) centres Parliament, led by National long years in prison in 1989 Dr Mlangeni was born on 6 to improve their efficiency. As the pandemic moves from a Assembly Speaker Ms Thandi together with Walter Sisulu, June 1925 in Matoding (later Currently, its services have health crisis into an economic Modise and National Council of Ahmed Kathrda, Raymond renamed Maynhartfontein improved from a 48% to a crisis, the department’s Provinces Chairperson Mr Amos Mhlaba, Elias Motsoaledi and farm) outside Bethlehem in the 97% efficiency rate. priority is job creation and job Masondo, sent condolences Oscar Mpetha. Free State. He was the ninth of protection. “Hence we have on behalf of Parliament to the 12 children of Ntate Matia and Well over 10% of the adjusted asked for more funds for the Mlangeni family, the African At his funeral, speakers one Mama Aletta Mlangeni, and budget will be used to activate CCMA to avert large-scale National Congress and friends after another said he was was one of the couple’s three and retain job opportunities. retrenchments.” of Dr Mlangeni. The Presiding the last freedom fighter of sets of twins. His parents were “The department has set aside Officers describes Dr Mlangeni a generation of freedom farm labour tenants.