CLARITY ON THE BELA ACT PROCESS @KASIBCNEWS 

THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS  WELCOMES CLARITY ON THE BELA ACT PROCESS 

African National Congress (ANC) welcomes clarification of the processes surrounding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act. It is important that all parties within the Government of National Unity (GNU) uphold the integrity of the agreed Clearing House Mechanism to ensure transparency and collective decision-making. 

The ANC strongly condemns attempts by the Democratic Alliance (DA) to bypass established processes in a desperate effort to perpetuate apartheid-era standards in our education system. Such actions are a direct affront to the principles of transformation and equity that underpin our democracy. 

The ANC remains committed to ensuring that legislative processes, including the BELA Act, reflect the shared vision of a united and transformed South Africa. 

We call on all GNU parties to respect the spirit of collaboration and work towards resolutions that benefit all South Africans. 

BELA BELA BILL CHAOS @KASIBCNEWS 

MEC CHILOANE REJECTS BILATERAL AGREEMENT ON BELA BY MINISTER AND PARTNERS

The Gauteng Education MEC, Mr Matome Chiloane, wishes to express his disappointment and firm rejection of the so-called bilateral agreement between the Minister of Basic Education and her partners regarding the BELA Act.

The so-called agreement among others proposes that:

“Sections 4(d), 4(f), and 5(c) of the BELA Act should not be implemented until national policies, regulations, and norms and standards are developed. Furthermore, Sections 4 and 5 are to be introduced on a phased basis, subject to these developments”.

This bilateral agreement, entered into by the Minister, National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) and Solidarity, represents the minority and as such undermines what was intended by the President.

MEC Chiloane is deeply concerned that this agreement effectively “ring-fences” certain public schools for the exclusive use of specific societal groups. The agreement also suggests that Heads of Departments (HODs) must seek permission from, or consult, School Governing Bodies (SGBs) to change a school’s language policy or to administer learner admissions. 

This approach, the MEC asserts, will enable SGBs to block transformation efforts. It might also allow some single-medium schools to resist introducing additional languages, even when local demographics dictates inclusivity to accommodate learners residing in the same area.

MEC Chiloane criticised the agreement for representing the interests of only one sector of society, describing it as a thinly veiled attempt to preserve culture at the expense of transformation.

He questioned why the Minister of Basic Education consulted only one segment of society and intends to present to the President such recommendations based on this one-sided engagement as a solution for the broader education sector.

It is paramount to note that National and Provincial spheres of government have concurrent legislative competence in accordance with Schedule 4 of the RSA Constitution (Act 108 of 1996) in terms of Sections 43 and 44 of the constitution. 

It is common cause that the President signed BELA Act into law in September 2024, and the implementation was subsequently, suspended for three months for consultations of two clauses. The Minister is expected to work with the provincial departments in the implementation of BELA Act, it is our view that the approach adopted by the Minister is against the constitutional principles, that of engaging the provinces for matters of concurrent powers.  In our opinion, the clauses that have been put on hold allow for sufficient consultation and adequately follows due processes with regards to admissions and language.

Therefore, MEC raised concerns about the Minister making public statements and agreements that implicate provincial HODs and MECs without prior consultation. He described this approach as foreign to a sector that thrives on collaboration and consensus for effective governance.

MEC Chiloane called for a more inclusive and consultative approach to addressing the transformation challenges in education, ensuring that the interests of all South Africans are considered in shaping the future of the sector.

Honouring the Living Legends in the Creative Sector @KASIBCNEWS

Honouring the living legends in the creative sector - “giving the living legends their flowers, while they can still smell them” 

Yesterday, 28 November, Minister Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister Peace Mabe honoured some of South Africa’s greatest living legends in the creative sector. Hosted at Radisson hotel in Ekurhuleni, the session launched a newly envisioned approach to supporting and honouring senior creative giants for their immense contribution to the creative industry.

In his address, the Minister emphasised that the department was working on a new funding model so that legends can have sustainable livelihoods. An honorarium payment of R100,000 is also being made to selected legends ahead of the Christmas break.

Living legends such as Lillian Dube, Dr John Kani, ⁠⁠Sue Williamson, ⁠⁠Noria Mabasa, ⁠⁠Helen Sebidi, ⁠⁠David Mothibi, Andrew Chabeli, ⁠⁠Omar Badsha, Thembi Mtshali-Jones, Marah Louw, Ouma Katrina Esau, ⁠⁠Hilda Tloubatla, Abigail Kubheka, Esther Mahlangu, Nombi Flatela and Babsy Mlangeni and many others from all corners of South Africa attended the event.

#DSACLivingLegends #LivingLegends2024 #CelebratingOurOwn

REA VAYA BUS SERVICES VERSUS TAXI ASSOCIATION @KASIBCNEWS 

JOHANNESBURG POLICE METROPOLITAN DEPARTMENT AND SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE GETS INVOLED WITH THE REA VAYA BUS SERVICES BEING HALTED BY TAXI ASSOCIATION 

On Friday, November 29, 2024, the Rea Vaya 45 feeder buses began operations, as confirmed in a media statement from the Executive Director (ED) for Transport on Thursday, November 28, 2024. 

However, the Taxi Association (TA) defied a court order and disrupted the bus services by blocking roads with their patrol cars.

In response, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) acknowledged a shortage of personnel to handle the situation but has pledged to bolster their presence going forward. 

 A meeting will be held this weekend between the JMPD and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to discuss the ongoing situation. 

The 45 feeder buses are scheduled to resume operations on Monday, December 2, 2024. 

SOUTH AFRICA’S HISTORIC G20 PRESIDENCY @KASIBCNEWS

SOUTH AFRICA’S HISTORIC G20 PRESIDENCY @KASIBCNEWS

The African National Congress (ANC) proudly welcomes the announcement that South Africa, under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa, will assume the Presidency of the G20 for the year 2025 from the 1st of December 2024. 

This historic milestone marks the first time an African nation will lead this important global forum, providing a platform to champion the development priorities of South Africa, the African continent, and the Global South. The ANC commends President Ramaphosa for his bold and inclusive vision, encapsulated in the theme “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.” This aligns seamlessly with the ANC’s 2024 Manifesto commitments to create jobs, reduce inequality, and drive inclusive economic growth. Under this Presidency, South Africa will focus on three critical areas: inclusive economic growth and industrialisation, food security, and innovation through artificial intelligence and sustainable development. 

The focus on inclusive economic growth and industrialisation will bring much-needed investment into key sectors such as manufacturing and infrastructure, creating sustainable jobs and driving transformation in communities. The emphasis on food security will strengthen agriculture, particularly in rural areas, boosting food production and providing opportunities for employment. Additionally, the prioritisation of artificial intelligence and innovation will prepare South Africans, especially the youth, for future jobs, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed in a rapidly changing global economy. 

Hosting 130 G20 meetings across South Africa will also stimulate local economies, generate tourism opportunities, and showcase South Africa as a global hub for investment and innovation. These engagements will open doors for increased international partnerships and access to funding for critical national projects, ultimately contributing to the upliftment of communities and economic growth. 

The G20 Presidency will also focus on advocating for fair financing mechanisms to address the debt burdens faced by many developing countries. This is critical to freeing resources for developmental programmes, which will help reduce poverty and drive job creation across the Global South. As the gateway to this beloved continent, South Africa will ensure that its G20 Presidency maintains a strong symbiotic relationship with the African Union (AU). This unprecedented opportunity will allow South Africa to champion the development of the African agenda, ensuring that the aspirations of the continent are central to the global discourse. The Presidency provides a platform to advance priorities such as regional integration, infrastructure development, and sustainable industrialisation, in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063. The ANC is confident that President Ramaphosa’s leadership will advance South Africa’s commitment to sustainable development, social justice, and building a better future for all. We call on all South Africans to rally behind this once-in-a-generation opportunity to position our country and continent at the centre of global decision-making and to ensure that the benefits of this Presidency reach every corner of our society. 

Covid-19 SRD Grant Fraud and Identity Theft @KASIBCNEWS

 

Covid-19 SRD Grant Fraud and Identity Theft @KASIBCNEWS

Mpumalanga -South African Social Security Agency [SASSA] is on the heels of fraudsters to empower social grants beneficiaries and the public at large through a special Integrated Registration Outreach Programme [ICROP]. This programme will assist in educating and curb fraudulent activities engulfed by the Covid-19 SRD grant [R370].

To also motivate those outside the grant system to check if their Identity numbers have not been fraudulently misused. The Agency is targeting Shopping complexes, police stations, clinics, taxi ranks and other areas of community convergence. SASSA is aiming to instill a sense of vigilance and to disturb the fraudsters on their tracks, who are out there targeting vulnerable social grants potential recipients and beneficiaries.

During this outreach people will be assisted with status checks, change of mobile numbers and Identity biometric verification.

To witness this service delivery model, the media is invited as follows:

Venue: Emalahleni [Kwaguqa Shopping Complex] and Nkomazi(Mzinti Community hall).
Time: 08:00
Date: 23 November 2024

For more information contact toll free during working days/hours [0800 60 10 11], Whatsapp [082 046 8553].

 

How to Register Your Spaza Shop @KASIBCNEWS 

How to Start and Sustain a Successful Spaza Shop Business

To start and register your spaza shop is a smart way to enter the world of entrepreneurship while contributing to your community. These township businesses play a crucial role in local economies, offering convenience and essential goods. However, launching and running a spaza shop requires thoughtful planning, compliance with regulations, and sound business strategies. This guide will take you through the process of setting up your spaza shop and navigating the associated legalities.

What are Spaza Shops?

Spaza shops are small, informal retail stores primarily located in residential areas of South African townships. They typically sell food essentials, snacks, beverages, and household necessities. According to the Business Act (1991), spaza shops must not exceed 30㎡ in size and are not permitted to sell restricted items such as alcohol without the appropriate licenses.

Spaza shops contribute significantly to the informal economy, which accounts for 5.2% of South Africa’s GDP. Despite growing competition from large retailers, these businesses thrive in busy locations with high-demand items, forming an integral part of township communities.

Key Considerations for Launching a Spaza Shop

Planning Your Business

• Location: Choose a highly visible and accessible area with considerable foot traffic.
• Stock: Focus on high-demand products such as food essentials, data vouchers, and household goods.
• Setup Costs: Budget for shelving, refrigeration, stock, and possibly a vehicle. Tech tools like a Point-of-Sale (POS) system and a card payment device are essential for modern spaza shops.

Licenses and Permits

1. Business License: Required for selling food or perishable goods.
2. Trading Permit: Ensures your business complies with municipal regulations.
3. Certificate of Acceptability: Mandatory under the Health Act (1977) for food safety compliance.
4. Zoning Permits: Verify that your chosen location permits retail activity.

To apply for these, contact your local municipality.

Navigating Challenges

Running a spaza shop has its hurdles, such as:

• Limited access to bulk purchasing, resulting in reduced profit margins.
• Competition from larger retailers offering lower prices.
• Difficulty securing startup funding or collateral.

Programs like the Township and Rural Entrepreneurship Programme (TREP) or the Spaza Shop Support Scheme, which offers up to R7,000 in assistance, can provide much-needed financial relief.

Operating a Successful Spaza Shop

Health and Safety Compliance

Adhering to hygiene standards ensures public safety and protects your business from legal troubles. Obtain a Certificate of Acceptability to legally handle food.

Customer Experience

Providing excellent service and high-quality products can help retain customers. Modern tech tools such as inventory management software can streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

Music Licensing

If you play music in your shop, secure licenses from SAMRO and SAMPRA to avoid copyright infringements.

Building Your Business

A well-managed spaza shop can grow beyond its humble beginnings. Explore partnerships, bulk-buying opportunities, or even franchising to expand your reach. By maintaining compliance, understanding your market, and leveraging support schemes, your shop can thrive as a cornerstone of the community.

Final Thoughts

Opening a spaza shop is more than just a business venture; it’s a way to uplift township economies and foster community development. By following the right steps and obtaining the necessary permits, you can build a sustainable and profitable spaza shop. For more guidance, consult your local municipality and take advantage of the available support schemes.