Gwakwani – SA’s 1st Smart Rural Village
This is a story of innovative thinking, strategic resourcing, partnerships, achieving development goals, technological innovations and a rural village that was put on the map for the first time. Gwakwani, a village in Limpopo, has become South Africa’s 1st smart and sustainable rural settlement.
Public Protector Advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka
Our Trailblazer for this edition is Advocate Nompilo Kholeka Gcaleka, who has been appointed as Public Protector of the Republic of South Africa (PPSA) for a non-renewable term of seven years with effect from 1 November 2023.
SIU: Striking Against Corruption
Established in 1996, the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been a beacon in anti-corruption efforts, forensic investigations, and litigation, with a primary mandate to scrutinise allegations of corruption across the state institutions of South Africa. The SIU was at the forefront of significant legal matters. In a groundbreaking ruling, the Constitutional Court found that, while not a court, the Special Tribunal still holds the jurisdiction and powers to adjudicate reviews brought by the SIU and to grant orders setting aside unlawful procurement contracts awarded by State institutions.
ICJ Elects SA Judge to United Nations’ Top Court
Professor Dire Tladi was recently announced as one of five new judges by the UN General Assembly and the Security Council. This historic appointment makes him the first South African to serve as a permanent judge in the 78-year history of the court – an unprecedented achievement for a South African citizen. The International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, requires the expertise of highly skilled international lawyers.
Digital Banking – Data Protection
47.8 million South Africans78.7% of the population – used mobile devices to access the internet In 2022. This upward trend is expected to continue and by 2027 the anticipated trajectory of internet utilisation in South Africa and the ascendancy of mobile devices is expected to grow by 90%. However, alongside this remarkable industry growth comes a concerning increase in cyber fraud. Identity theft, credit card fraud, online privacy, and scams like phishing are highlighted as major consumer concerns.
Tshepo Kgobe: New CEO at The Gautrain Management Agency (GMA)
Effective from January 3, Tshepo Kgobe is set to assume the role of CEO at the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA), replacing William Dachs. His forward-looking vision for Gautrain aligns with a commitment to transformation.
CIGFARO: Professionalising the Public Sector
Gathered at CIGFARO’s conference were hundreds of finance professionals from municipalities across the country who were treated to engaging sessions covering the nuts and bolts of public finance management, including addresses from outgoing CIGFARO president, Cheryl Reddy, the Auditor-General’s office, Honourable Thembi Nkadimeng and representatives from SARS. This year’s theme was “Iron Sharpens Iron: Learning From Best Practices”, pointing to the knowledge sharing which took place over the three days.
Financial Fitness: Planning For 2024
Much like adopting a fitness regimen brings benefits and confidence, being financially fit means skillfully managing money for present and future needs. Having, and sticking, to a financial plan helps save for emergencies, avoid debt, and build good credit, all crucial for financial security. To kickstart your journey to managing your money, here’s a monthly breakdown of practical tips to help you achieve financial fitness.
VEA MD Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu: Leading By Example
Thoko Tshabalala-Shandu’s association with VEA Road Maintenance and Civils began in 2017, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. Armed with over a decade of experience in the mining industry, particularly in roles encompassing business development, sales, and customer service, her proficiency and confidence in engaging with individuals across all organisational levels did not go unnoticed by the Board of Directors.
Festive Season – Volunteering
Christmas and the New Year are around the corner and while for many it has been a year of recovery, there are many who will need a helping hand. Throughout the year, there are opportunities to offer up your time to help those in need, and if you have not done so already, the festive season is a perfect time for you to start making a difference.