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Fences dropped for animals why not human’s in SADC

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

Off my chest

9 June 2008

My focus is that fences has been dropped between three SADC countries which are Botswana, Zimbabwe, South Africa. The land mass where they transverse is big why are we humans that feeds and look after the animals intolerant to each other when I am because you are.

There is game census that counts the movement of the many animals that shuttles through this country. They are fed! Game rangers are employed to look after the well being of this species. But when we as human beings start looking after our own a finger is pointed and you are slashed left right and centre.

Can someone please enlight me! I affirm this question to myself and awed by this senseless and ruthlessness that we have become.

For more information on the Transfontier Park take a moment and read. The saying is this it begins with me. And this is what I am trying to speak out in my own way.

I am saying no to chauvinistic, intolerant behaviour that will take all of us down stream not up where we belong.

Limpopo’s land the past, current and future: an impact on the skills shortage facing South Africa and Africa

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

6 June 2008

According to a 2007/8 Limpopo’s Provincial Report on whether government is meeting its challenges and how the different sectors impact on the socio-economic stability of our province: skills shortage is one of the thorny issues that if not dealt with the repercussions are too high a price to pay.

Facts

Limpopo’s provincial land mass is 123 910 km, population 5.27 million the gross geographic product is R79 billion. The province is a major producer of oranges, tomatoes, mangoes. According to the department of agriculture statistics, 90 % of tomatoes consumed worldwide are from Limpopo, 65 % of mangoes from Limpopo 60 % of global consumption of avocados from Limpopo. Macadamia nuts from Limpopo. Green tea is from Limpopo.

Limpopo’s transformation, from a struggling province with a modest economy into a vibrant region of opportunity, is one of the nation’s great success stories. And this is the motivating factor behind this article.

Local and foreign interest groups with available finance for growth projects will always invest in success, and events in Limpopo have proved this theory to be true.

Limpopo’s startling turn-around was achieved against seemingly impossible odds, by a leadership team who set attainable targets, and then inspired others to reach for the sky. The province has progressed from an economy worth R14 billion in 1994, to one exceeding R73 billion.

Limpopo ’s growth might seem like a piece of a cake but hard work from those who tilt the land is what makes this province a success.

Leadership impacts

Under the current leadership I would say that the importance of partnership, while always looking beyond short-term problems to distant possibilities has been the driving force that has led to this success. According to research “ The importance of creating jobs and wealth is derived from the fact that it impacts directly on the quality of life, self-reliance & the distribution of resources and empowerment”.

Limpopo is one province that is spatially vast according to statistics as provided by the provincial government.

Agricultural sector

I don’t think that it was by a mistake that a dream was unveiled in the Sapekoe Tea Estate, ZZ2 in the Mondjadjiskloof, Tshivase Tea Estate in Thohoyandou to allow the economic emancipation of Africa to be on top gear.

Unfortunately the fruit and to many Africa’s that tilt the land are not the final benefactors in this products. They only consume the final process produced somewhere miles and kilometers away from the soil of Limpopo is a shame to humanity. A rational is that I don’t blame the powers and the people that works and helps to produce this product because of the history of our economy and social imperatives as the African land.

The juice we drink, the tea we sip, the mangoes we enjoy are plucked and should be enjoyed by those who tilt the land.

Its unfortunate that our economic sectors is not developed to cater for this massive industry that has been the main stream of our daily lives. What is being produced by the industry from ZZ2 farm in the Modjadjiskloof is consumed worldwide.

The Venda economy is based on agriculture. The women from the area are the rock that this industry thrives and grows from. The passion and dedication in how they support this industry makes me think hard and long when complaining because this is a hands on the deck and hard work at its best.

Development imperatives

I think it would make sense that development should be planned in a manner that products produced from the toil and sweat of Limpopo’s soil is produced and its citizens are privy and part of the final product. After all it’s our land and our toil.

The avocado oil in the camphor cream. Macadamia nuts from Modjadjiskloof it all comes from the belly of Limpopo.

A history and memory of Limpopo

Once known as the nation’s poorest province, Limpopo has blossomed into a powerhouse of development, with a dynamic annual economic growth rate, which has at times exceeded the national average.

The mining, agriculture, tourism and manufacturing sectors have emerged as the largest job creators. New foreign investments are being attracted each year, with the province’s favourable geographical situation in relation to Southern African Development Community nations a positive trading factor. The provincial capital, Polokwane, which has an international airport, is one of the nation’s fastest growing young cities, having become a major administrative, educational and service industry centre during the past ten years.

Sunshine, a rainbow, a dance, the language, my culture that’s what makes South Africa tick!

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

13 May 2008

A cry is a cry. A smile is a smile. A grin is not acceptable in my world. What I perceive as imperative might not be what you stand for. As in language practice creates perfection at its best. I speak of language because I just made a solemn declaration to a friend that I will teach him Sepedi while I learn with the greatest pleasure Tshivenda.

I laughed when he started speaking my language but I could clearly see that he was not chaffed by my laughter. In South Africa, 11 official languages are the order of the day. What was I thinking and expecting?

But how many times does Mzansi’s people practice and speak another language. Because if we do we would understand one another's belief or lack thereof. While at it I am getting back to class to learn sign language. My former boss was too intrigued with his Braille that one day I asked myself why? The answer: purely and surely simple that there are amongst us who use Braille as their eyes and ears.

You see with language your body expression speaks volume as well. I for one cannot say get off my case with a smile on my face. It’s like jerking water out of a stone.

Spoken word is body language at its best. Every time I laugh my muscles gets so relaxed that I am at my peace but when electrified with anger I ventilate. And this is where our senses of reasoning and relaxation are embedded.

Its pure logic.

Doing more, better, faster

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

7 May 2008

Writing is a passion! An art, a craft I have gotten to unwrap like my son unwrapping a chocolate. The sheer excitement that rushes to his mind that ooh I am about to have something pleasurable, is the IT factor. That’s how I express this space which dates 10 years ago. To a point I fell into writing, research, by chance but it’s a craft that I know I belong to. It keeps me sane because everytime I write the content is embedded deep in my soul. It’s not a racy compulsive urge that pleases me but being at peace with myself when I write what I like. My writing is a plan simply plotted 10 years ago when I started writing on the politics of the mother continent, Africa. Since then it has been take off. I have never looked back or regretted the moment. Reading and putting my pen down is something I cannot fathom. I like this writing because it’s my space and no one else. In my case I know I have knowledge and have gained and still am leaning every day and every second.

“Computer peoples should run computer companies, beverage people should run beverage companies, airline people should run airline companies, writers should write, politicians should run the dealings of politics. Any analyst or capitalist will tell you that the background and character of the people is the most important factor in the success of an existing or new venture. “My writing is my plan on paper” finish and klaar! Most of my friends & hero’s are journalists of note because I love the passion, compassion, selflessness, heroism that comes with their craft. They write because they feel, touch, see, smell it all. A friend once said Eva stop worrying too much and carrying people burdens on your shoulders.

I think he said this because he knows and understands how deep I feel, see, touch, hear and smell. And I know it’s a weakness to carry everyone’s load on one’s heart. Each and every one of us are made with a skill, wisdom, knowledge and passion for things different but as he always says to me the point is not carrying life’s journey’s, challenges, experiences on one’s shoulder.

It’s about soldiering forward. It’s about walking forward with your eyes and ears open. There is so much happening around us. Death everyday, poverty, unemployment and other socials ills facing our country and continent at large. But hope is what should drive us all to seek a better future which when it approaches we should all be ready to grab the bait and run as fast as we can. At this point I want to quote a remarkable author Gerald A_ Michaelson who writes in his book, The Art of War for Managers, that an individual must strategically, occupy a secure position, he/she must own this space. I know for sure that I “own” this writing space because of years learning the art and craft of writing it all.

Limpopo, A province of immense opportunities

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

30 April 2008

Once known as the nation’s poorest province, Limpopo has blossomed into a powerhouse of development, home to the big seven. Most of us have had a close encounter with the big five: the elephant, lion, rhino, leopard. But these days most private conservancies boast the big seven because the wild dog and cheetah are part of the current wildlife mix.

An interesting development in recent years has been the reintroduction of the Big Five into the Waterberg region.

My fascination with the province fathoms me. I have traveled the continent and other provinces and my destiny is Limpopo. There are many reasons why I celebrate my province. In my articles for the next few months I will share with you my experiences as a traveler, a writer and an adventurer and hopefully give you plenty reasons to start exploring our beautiful province.

Cultural Diversity

With six of South Africa’s official languages widely spoken in Limpopo, and several other cultures well represented, I believe that Limpopo has become a true microcosm of the country’s rainbow nation. Several cultural villages, situated in the Sekhukhune, Waterberg, Mopani districts are open to tourists, and function as living museums, to depict important cultural trends dating back to the past centuries.

Cultural History

According to history and research the Venda people have been firmly entrenched in the Soutpansberg area since their arrival from the north during the seventeenth century are , while the Shangaan nation’s culture was brought to the Eastern Lowveld from Mozambique. Northern Sotho communities, originally concentrated in the Sekhukhuneland area, now live in large parts of Limpopo’s central region, while many southern districts of the province have become home to the Ndebele, who have cultural links with Zimbabwe.

The cultures of the Afrikaner and English people have progressively started to merge in recent years, but they have respectively managed to retain distinctive values from their Voortrekker and colonial roots. Meanwhile Indian settlers have made meaningful contributions to the province’s economic development, and German, Portugese and Greek communities have become an integral part of the local scene in most major centres.

Limpopo’s marvelous leaders

Limpopo’s leaders make no secret of the fact that they believe the province’s greatest asset is its people, because they are resourceful, friendly, peace-loving and hardworking. Anyone who has tackled the province’s renowned Ivory Route will testify to the wonderful hospitality of the rural communities. Others will speak of the friendly assistance they received, during a mechanical breakdown in an isolated area. Humour, as well as a cooperative spirit, also characterise the people of the north. Limpopo is undoubtedly a province of achievers.

Tito Mboweni, Cyril Ramaphosa, Mathole Motshekga, Judge Ngoepe, Frederick van Zyl Slabbert, Mamphele Ramphele and Mbulueni Mulaudzi are just some of the region’s protégés who have made their marks at the highest level.

The Legacy of Sekhukhune

It is a fact that the Pedi people first occupied an area larger than the present Limpopo Province from about 400 A.D. and they lived in the Sekhukhuneland region, south east of Polokwane, sine the end of the seventeenth century. This region takes its name from the warrior king, Sekhukhune 1, who was the original Lion of the North, the undisputed ruler of a vast kingdom, only rivaled by the Shaka king.

Once all the wars and conquests had subsided, the Pedi people started to turn their attention to farming and became very knowledgeable and successful agriculturists. Presently the mining industry is booming in the region with investments worth billions invested in the region. The sad point is that the tourism industry is still left in the drenches. Hopefully with time we will see developments that will seek to p reserve the Ba-Pedi culture and heritage.

This article is dedicated to a great tourism and conservation writer the late Dirk Nel, his spirit still lives on.

Lekgaalameetse nature reserve peace and tranquility at its best

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

14 April 2008

God must have been standing here when he created the world. These are words an acquaintance used to explain Lekgaalameetse. A nature reserve managed by Limpopo Tourism and Parks Board nestled in the majestic Wolkberg Mountains in Tzaneen.

This is my story of one venue and comfort in traveling began in earnest with a trip to Lekgaalameetse 10 years ago. I was awed with the beauty and the tranquility of the “place of much waters” as its known.

This is where I learned the art of relaxation and my search for relaxation began in earnest. I want to use the word relaxation as a real treasure hunt with which there is no end, for I seek relaxation ceaselessly, hungrily, in this age of a frantic, a disturbed society who have forgotten how to relax.

Many people, me included feel relaxation is such a goal unattainable in these hustle-bustle times, traffic jams, load shedding and not forgetting the uncertainty of the world around us.

Yet my search is such an important one, It’s a golden goal that I seek, an inner quest, an untroubled sea that flows within me, a music of sweet violins and gently ticking bells, that is relaxation and that is what Lekgaalameetse nature reserve is.

It is extreme fun because you travel from the bottom of the reserve to the top of the Wolkberg Mountain. This is a place where one friend once said “God was standing here when he created the world”.

The freedom of driving in the rugged steep rock mountain to the top of the mountain is awesome. It’s adrenaline at its best! For a first time 4 x 4 trial I must say I remember the experience like yesterday.

It’s a memorable feat of what Limpopo is home to. Lekgaalameetse is nestled in the beauty of the mountains where water is a plenty as you can feel, see, touch.

The wooden chalets and the guest house is located at the river bank.

Talking about Lekgaaalameetse now affirms to me that leisure is an active and what we all should seek. We owe relaxation and leisure to ourselves because memories of places been and things done is what makes life worth living. A trip to Lekgaalaameetse is a must for anyone looking for a adventure and adrenaline.

Belief and patience can make one susceptible to criticism and intolerance from impatient characters

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

18 March 2008

What makes one person think they are more majestic and powerful than the other? I think selfishness & arrogance are the main culprits. I believe in respect for oneself and automatically and arguably this spreads to the world and people around us.

My mantra is that everyone deserves respect, honor and recognition no matter how rich or poor, small or big they are. We are in this together! I am because you are!

I am alive to fulfill a mission so is my son, brother, mother, friend, colleague, aunt etc and no one has the right to tell me I am not worth anything mostly the so called family.

Waking up day and night to the same noise that you are not worth anything by the people you live with cuts through one like a sharp knife. I am not perfect but yet I am not saying I am holier than though. Each and everyone of us deserve a platform to live and be alive. If and when I wrong another fellow soul it’s not because I plot and plan to do that. It might be because of circumstances beyond or above my control.

The honorable laurette winner Madiba Rolihlala Mandela was prisoned for his belief for 27 years and he came out without bitterness and vengeance to anyone. This is truly the most remarkable destination that a human soul can reach. Imagining how each second, minute and day passed by for 27 years and yet being loving to those that made those same moments miserable is what I call remarkably remarkable.

Over the weekend I was leafing through this Madiba's autobiography as I always do when in moments of need and I was reminded how life is worth living. How precious is every moment. How each and everyone of us play a critical role in the journey that is life.

Its this freedom that I celebrate and treasure today, and as long as I live.

Mountain splendor with a twist of world class golf estate at Entabeni Safari Conservancy

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

14 March 2008

Entabeni Lodge is a five star graded tourism establishment nestled comfortably and majestically in the Waterberg mountains. I rate it among the top ten lodges in the province and below are among some of the wonderful things to do in the 22 000 hectare malaria free- Entabeni Safari Conservancy.

When you are in Entabeni Safari Conservancy you are in the jet arena. It’s the jetz that whizzes through Limpopo skies to bring revelers alike a memory to remember. According to my guide this week the Chief Executive Officer of Legend Lodge, Peet Cilliers the fact that we have signed a R3 billion investment to bring the world of golf and peace to Waterberg is a dream come true for me and the hard working team at Legend Lodges.

According to Cilliers much more is to come. Last year in conjunction with local and international partners a R3 biliion Legend Golf & Safari Resort is currently being build and is due for completion late this year”. The project was launched with much pomp and glamour last year to investors at Entabeni.

As part of a joint venture between Legend Lodges, Hotels & Resorts and IFA Hotels & Resorts Ltd (IFA SA) and IFA Hotels & Resorts Kuwait (IFA Kuwait) the resort, a world, first development featuring a true African golf course designed according to world-class standards, is expected to attract large numbers of local and international corporate, leisure and incentive visitors to the province and will considerably boost the province’s GDP.

Says CEO of Legend Lodges Hotels & Resorts and shareholder in the development company,: “ The Resort will form part of our flagship 22 000 hectare malaria-free Entabeni Safari Conservancy, located within the greater UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere of the Limpopo Province.

Cilliers is excited to see his long-term vision become reality through the joint venture they entered into with International hotel group, IFA Hotels & Resorts.

South Africa is renowned for, amongst other things, its beautiful golf resorts and golfers come from around the globe to compete against each other on some of the most picturesque golf courses in the world. The Legend Golf & Safari Resort, set to complete its 18-hole professional golf course by of the first quarter of 2008, brings a unique spin on the “professionally designed golf course in a beautiful setting” concept by bringing together the talents of not one, but 18, of the top international golfers to each design a signature hole.

According to Cilliers the 18 golfers literally represent the four corners of the globe and tie in with the unique inspiration of Africa’s ancient link to the world through the old trade sea routes around Africa creating The World- in One golf course.”As part of a wilderness conservancy, Africa’s wildlife the design and layout of the resort has been undertaken in such a manner as to minimize the impact on the natural resources and surroundings, preserving the pristine bushveld environment and ensuring that the resort remains one of the most eco-friendly in Africa.”

According to David Riddle, the golf director, the course is the longest in Africa (8km) and designed as an-18 hole “true African championship golf course” of world-class standard, consisting of two loops of nine holes with large putting greens. The course provides for golfers at all levels of the game. “The opening holes play from the clubhouse, which is centrally situated, run through the site, convening mid-way up the slope and returning down the hill in a southerly direction. The sheer scale of the golf course, with large sinuous greens and bunkers and the majestic mountainous backdrop, make for a unique golfing experience. On any given hole, a range of five tees, allows the golf course to be set up for any form of the game, and creates the flexibility required for a successful golf club.” Greens are constructed to California specification and to comply with US PGA recommended specification. The large greens are planted with bent grass, fairways with kikuyu, first cut with cynodon then flowing into the natural veldt grasses of the surrounds.

Apparently when the facilities is complete it will host a Welcome and Recreational Centre, offering guests a variety of restaurants and dining options, boutique shops, a theatre and various leisure activities including safari game drives to entertain the whole family. While the Club House will afford golfers access to private dressing rooms offering all amenities and an exclusive members lounge. All spaces naturally and logically emanate from the central courtyard overlooking the 9th and 18th holes and the majestic Waterberg Mountain Range. A state-of-the-art Golf Academy with a driving range will offer the avid golfer a range of products and professional training programs with virtual training facilities.

One of the most talked about features of the golf course is its extreme 19th hole, which is the longest Par 3 in the world. Set high up on the impressive Hanglip Mountain , accessible only by helicopter, golfers are invited to tee-off from the edge of the mountain to hit a hole-in-one on the additional 19th hole located at the bottom of the cliff. A hole-in-one earns the lucky golfer US$1m. “We will offer this year-round when the course opens for play and golfers need only play this one hole for a chance to win the prize,” says Cilliers.

Entabeni is located in a malaria free zone. By invitation only, select investors have already bought stands within the resort's residential estate. Cilliers adds that the local community also stands to benefit by the creation of jobs and opportunities. The establishment of the Legend Foundation assists in the social upliftment of communities through sport and other disciplines will also assist in skills development and create various sustainable community projects like a vegetable farm, nursery and clinic.

At the Fields of Legends complex, a variety of sport facilities such as soccer, rugby, netball, hockey, tennis and cricket etc will be offered with associated academies. Educational programs offered at the golf and sport academies, will assist in the sport training of talented youngsters of the Limpopo Province. Furthermore, international teams participating in the 2010 Soccer World Cup will have the opportunity to practice on the on-site, world-class soccer pitch.

Ga-Sekhukhune, Moroke 8th January Analysis

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

14 January 2008

The ANC NEC statement, is it a beacon of despair or hope! I choose the latter because I was part of a revolutionary gathering at Moroke on 09 January 2008. I realized like many that attended the event that the soul of the ANC is not about personal agenda or gains it’s a real call for all South Africans to unite. But there is always a thorn in my eye every time I travel to Sekhukhune.

Firstly, this is an area with rich resources, untapped tourism sector, the best brains and fighters in the global arena are from the area. And evertytime I go there I make a solemn declaration with myself that the culture of the Ba-Pedi must and be preserved, marketed and brought out and given its due credit. Like other regions were developed in Limpopo there is no excuse why this should not happen for the heart and soul of Sekhukhune.

13 years into democracy this is not done! 13 years into the new dispensation there are constant reasons why the area is not developed and quite frankly I am getting tired of this! I strongly think that the land issue and kingship of the region must be finalized because this is affecting the developmental state that the President of the movement is talking about. Hence I think the powers that be in the area finds it easy to justify non-development and lack thereof in Sekhukhune area. I know from and other alike minds now that this impacts negatively on the potential beacon of hope for Africa.

I hope as the new change of guard has proclaimed in their statement that we should all go back and work, we all take this into consideration and abide.

Message of condolences from Dr Tshenuwani Farisani on the death of Cde Florence Masakona

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

13 December 2007

It is with sadness that we received the tragic news of the passing on of yet another member of the legislature early this week, the chairperson of the Standing committee on the Status of women, youth and People with Disabilities, Comrade Florence Masakona, who died on Wednesday.

Comrade Florence Masakona, who passed on after many months of ill health, has been a member of the Limpopo Legislature since the late 90s, replacing yet another member, Ms Bulala who had also passed on. Her valuable contributions to the democratic state are well documented and known. She has been a champion for women, youth and people with disabilities. She was well-known for her non-nonsense stand when coming to issues close to her heart.

On behalf of my family, the legislature, and people of Limpopo, I must confess this has been a tough year for us in the Legislature. This is the second member of the Legislature, and a third person we have lost within a year.

Cde Masakona died at a crucial time, when the movement she is passionate about is to be host to one of its largest meetings, the 52nd Conference in the Province. Her absence and contributions will be missed.

We ask the nation to pray with the Masakona family, her children and the Limpopo legislature, during these trying times.

Vha edele nga Mulalo Mukololo
May her soul rest in Peace

Dr Tshenuwani Farisani
Speaker: Limpopo Legislature

Issued by: Kenny Mathivha ( PRO)
Limpopo Legislature
082 450 1331

16 December a day of reconciliation & a momentous journey to Limpopo 52nd ANC conference

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

13 December 2007

“There are few countries which dedicate a national public holiday to reconciliation. But then there are few nations with our history of enforced division, oppression and sustained conflict. And fewer still, which have undergone such a remarkable transition to reclaim their humanity. We, the people of South Africa, have made a decisive and irreversible break with the past. We have, in real life, declared our shared allegiance to justice, non-racialism and democracy; our yearning for a peaceful and harmonious nation of equals.” These are the words articulated by South Africa’s former President Dr Nelson Mandela 13 years ago in a statement to celebrate reconciliation day.

Fast forward to 2007 ANC conference and reconciliation day and my opinion

This words are still as relevant as the air we breathe at this juncture than ever before. Unity, reconciliation, ubuntu is what this young democracy needs to move like a well oiled engine. As knives are apparently out, camps are apparently emerging, all I can say is it’s never too late for the people of Mzansi to unify. Its not too late for us to start again with a spirit of optimism and hope for the future. I have made mistakes, I have wronged others, I have been wronged in the process but I live with the hope, happiness and joy that we can all start again instead of pointing fingers at each other.

The Holy Grace Bishop Barnabas in his last September address re-emphasised the need for unity, tolerance & knowledge. A statement that cuts through my soul like a sharp knife; until dignity is restored where its been lost, wounds are healed all is in vain.

Social grants or no grants. BEE or no BEE Africa has always been a kingdom rich with resources and talent and it still is. Before the passing on of King Thulare Ryan Sekhukhune 111, I had an opportunity to meet this lion of the north. I got this opportunity to meet him because he went to the same school as my father Mr Ratau. My dad’s father was a king in a small village called Ntoane in Glen Cowie in Ga-Sekhukhune.

Because of his dedication to the people a school called Sekwena Primary School named after him was build and officially opened by President Thabo Mbeki. I can proudly say today the school offers education to six villages around the area. You see my late grandfather King Sekwena Ratau believed in his people. He respected the counsel and advise from the communities hence the respect he enjoyed while he was alive. Still on the issue of the late King Thulare Ryan Sekhukhune 111, I will in my own ways each and every day work towards restoring dignity to the people of Sekhukhune wherever humanly possible.

Land must be given back to its rightful heirs and the battle going in the Ga-Ratau royal kraal will continue because it should. The riches of the soils in Ga-Sekhukhune must be enjoyed by all, the cultural imperative of the area must be preserved, and the agricultural sector must be kept alive for the coming generation.

I believe that just as the pride of the people of Mapungubwe has been restored the dignity of the Ba-Pedi must be restored by us all.

Continued and edited speech by the former President Nelson Mandela on national reconciliation day, 16 December 1995

“The rainbow has come to be the symbol of our nation. We are turning the variety of our languages and cultures, once used to divide us, into a source of strength and richness.

But we do know that healing the wounds of the past and freeing ourselves of its burden will be a long and demanding task. This Day of Reconciliation celebrates the progress we have made; it reaffirms our commitment; and it measures the challenges.

The Government of National Unity chose this day precisely because the past had made December 16 a living symbol of bitter division. Valour was measured by the number of enemies killed and the quantity of blood that swelled the rivers and flowed in the streets.

Today we no longer vow our mutual destruction but solemnly acknowledge our inter-dependence as free and equal citizens of our common Motherland. Today we re-affirm our solemn constitutional compact to live together on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

Reconciliation however, does not mean forgetting or trying to bury the pain of conflict.

Two terrible defects weakened the foundations of the modern South African state that were laid in the great upheaval at the beginning of the Century. Firstly, it rested on the treacherous swamps of racism and inequality. The second defect was the suppression of truth.

Now, at the end of the Century, South Africans have the real chance to strike out along a glorious path. The democratic foundations of our society have been laid. We must use our collective strengths to carry on building the nation and improving its quality of life.

Reconciliation means working together to correct the legacy of past injustice. It means making a success of our plans for reconstruction and development.

Therefore, on 2007 December 16, National Day of Reconciliation, my appeal to my commanders, comrades, cadres who will be going to the historical ANC event to remember us.

1st economy + Grant/Aid + 2nd economy = South Africa’s potential social and economic prosperity

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

08 December 2007

One of the issues I am keen to keep tabs on when the dust settles after the 52nd ANC National Conference to be held in Limpopo in a weeks time, is how government will use its resources to lift the destitute millions of South Africans who are going hungry each and every day.I am eager to hear the plans by the leadership elected on how they will seek better ways and means to contribute towards their emancipation.

I am happy that this issues is being put high on the list of the delegates going to the conference. This is a breath of fresh air that politicians voted by the people will discuss and decide on what needs to be done in creating a platform for them to move from the so-called second economy to the first.

I believe that the current policies as adopted by government to introduce grants and aid to the people is a remarkable move. Purely because to many its not about incompetency but given a level platform to prove and showcase themselves. You see to many of my elders, brothers and sisters scattered around the Sekhukhune area is not whether they can do it but a platform they need and the means to get there to prove that they can.

Of course I believe that the Social Grant System should not be viewed as a spoonfeeding mechanism but an opportunitity to get there and when you are there proof yourself, work hard and let other generations access the same platform.

You see for many of us living in the suburbs the apartheid system made it easy to get around. Roads are tarred. Buildings are constructed. Access to everything is on your finger tips but to many this is a luxury. For most people its about putting bread on the table for the families, educating their offsprings and so forth, anything else is lavishness. And of course its not their doing. It’s a system that was created of many years. Now is the time that the government ploughs back unreservedly o the main contributors of our democracy, the ordinary South African, my late grandfathers wishes and even the current generations dreams and hopes.

I look forward to the outcome of the conference.

In memory of France Mofapa Mohlala

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

07 December 2007

As the ANC conference draws close I cant help but to remember what IF Cde France Mohlala was still alive. What would I do differently in my contributions to the success of this conference? What counsel & advise would he offer to the Youth League, the Provincial, Branches structures in preparation of Limpopo welcoming all the many delegates coming to our soil. And what comes to my mind is a lot of things. You see Mr Mohlala was a unifier, a man of laughter, great depth, knowledge and many more attributes that most comrades got to know him. Of course right now I can only speak of my memories and the great motivator he came to be in my life and the team that established the website.

He would always say comrades its not about you, its about the people we are here to represent. Its about what the people would want to know about the movement they voted. Its about opportunities abound for all of us alike. He was said personalities, egos and everything else aside. It’s this trait I got to respect and drew strength. He was a real humble servant of the people and his memory shall live on forever.

And in memory of him, I hope all the delegates that comes to the province will take a moment to remember the contribution he and other comrades like Peter Mokaba, Ms Martha Motswenyane contributed to the struggle. Obviously not forgetting the guidance and contribution of the current leadership.

Love, Life and everything is adventure made possible at the Outpost Lodge

By Eva Pebetse Ratau a member of the France Mohlala House

29 November 2007

When my thrilling journey was over, when the last rays of the sun faded in the west, and darkness descended, memories of my day was shared around a blazing fire, in the company of good friends and the love of my life. My memoirs of my trip to The Outpost Lodge situated in the Kruger National Park was filled with amazing events of places I visited, the morning bush walk, the night drive, the chat with Elephants and nature made a day at the lodge a memorable occasion. As night befall my tour was sealed off by a superb meal with a great class of Amarula, a proudly brewed product from Limpopo now consumed by millions around the globe.

This are my memories of my travel to the Outpost Lodge. My experience from the moment I set foot at the reception entrance to my last day at the lodge, was a highlight of my times as a traveller and I shall cherish this forever.

The Outpost Lodge is a 4 star bush safari lodge which seeks to offer its tourists a real treat and experience of one being immersed with nature. During my tour, my guide taught me the essence of preserving nature for the future generation. Lesson number one is this as human beings we cannot survive without our environment.

Amarula a True World Treasure

As the night befall it brought with it a slower pace, of Amarula, the relaxed mode, the gentle beat of drums, the distant roar of the Elephants, soft music, appetising wafts - and I thought this are really the amazing thoughts of rest and comfort.

The Outpost Lodge is one of the many luxurious accommodation facilities that Limpopo offer. My trip to the lodge was vested in my interest to complete a research to unsterstand how public private partnerships between local land owners and investors can enter into to a win-win viable business solution.

Remarkable Private Partnerships in Tourism

And my findings were amazing. In simple words this model is the right one to be used by communities who have claimed the land that belongs to them but what was taken snatched from them through the apartheid system.

The story of The Outpost which belongs to the Makuleke community dates years ago. To be more specific 5 years ago, rightly so the Makuleke community claimed what belonged to them, their land. They won the case one of its kind in our country.

A Story by the Makuleke

The Makuleke Region was occupied by the Makuleke Community for some 140 years prior to their forced removal in 1969 under the apartheid policies of the previos government. After South Africa returned to democracy in the 1990’s, the Makuleke’s lodged a successful land claim resulting in the return of their land. This return was conditional on the land being used only for ecotourism and subject to the environmental management of Kruger National Park.

The Makuleke Community then awarded a 30 year concession to The Outpost. A true community lodge, the Outpost was built with a labour foce provided by the Community. The Outpost now operates with staff drawn almost entirely from the community. The Outpost pays 8 & of its turnover to the Community as a concession rental and a further 2 & of its turnover is paid to a Trust formed for the benefit and welfare of the Community. At the end of the 30 year period, the entire lodge will be returned to the Community, with the objective being for community members to have obtained the necessary skills to operate The Outpost for their own benefit.

This arrangement representwsw one of the most advanced integrated conservation and sustainable develop ment models in the world and provide real ownership and control to the Makuleke community.

A Remarkable Success

As I write this article the Makuleke area is a hub of its own. This has for the last years worked successfully not only for the community but it has been a good investment move for the investors. The lodge now employs more than 10 local community members over and above other tourism services they offer like guided tours. Through this initiative the community has benefited greatly from the investment. Because tourism is a multi faced industry more than 10 officials are recruited to run the lodge, 15 community members make and sell beads that are sold at the lodge, catering is being sourced from the local communities which benefits close to 30 people. The more the visitors to the Outpost the great the economic impact for the province.

This I believe is a remarkable model that could be used for public private partnerships in the future for those with land and those with capital to invest. Many communities in our country are now getting what rightfully belongs to them and I think that tourism should be one of the sectors they should venture into.

At the end of this trip I sealed my memory with a kiss goodbye for my long haul back to the hustle & bustle of Pololokwane.

The missing link, the human element to our core

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

What prompts me to write this email at this moment is my sadness at the passing on of one man I got to admire. He is Mr Mokwena. I met him a couple of times and every time I had an encountered with him it has been a moment I treasure.

He couldn’t hear properly but the enthusiasm espoused by him in the midst of his illness and troubles blew me away. In the last 3 years to be specific I lost many people I look up to be more specific my heroes.

Commander France Mohlala, a dear friend Dirk Nel, Mr Mokwena, thank you. To many others that have supported me in against all odds, KE A LEBOGA.

To Mr Mokwena may you rest in peace!

Memorial Tombstone unveiling of Sipho Albert Mahlangu

Click here to download the invitation in PDF format, please note that contrary to the time on the invitation the ceremony will start at 7h00.

What about ubuntu?

An article by Eva Pebetse Ratau

25 October 2007

For God’s sake why the me myself and I battle ahead of the ANC 52nd conference to be held in Limpopo in December. This remember is a historic event that will decide the economic landscape and political stability of our country and our continent. I ask this question is the debate around who is better than the other deserving of much space in the midst of the high levels of unemployment and poverty in our country. I think not.

What I think is this space to talk, debate, issue statements and so forth should be given to a united approach by those that wants to lead our country. They need to table and find answers to this questions : how do we create employment, create political stability, half unemployment and many more questions.

Some analysts & statistics argue that our country is reaching crisis mode. This debate is not a laughable cycle but a reality of the facts around the globe. The gap between the rich and the poor has widened and unsurprisingly this is no different to the world around us. According to statistics by United Nations an organization with more resources to study such trends confirms this worrying factor. That even in Europe this is the case. The rich are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer. For a continent that has to claim its rightful place in the global markets we have more to prove. I believe united we should stand as we have proved beyond reasonable doubt that we are more mature than others.

Our heroes are free from the drenches of Robben Island and other underground places. We have a constitution to be proud of. The last thirteen years South Africa has taken its rightful place in domestic and international affairs. We are seeing our economy grow from strength to strength. Our foreign debt and inflation is under control. Our people are getting jobs and basic services. They can choose where they live, what they say, where they walk without fear. Why do we then want to mess this up through point scoring exercises at the expense of million South Africans.

I believe that this country has plenty and untapped opportunities & resources that can benefit the millions left outside our economy, only if we could let politicians do politics, businesses do businesses, journalists proudly write, lawyers practice law, doctors heal the lame and blind. I believe that if we let such a system take root without interruption jobs will be created for millions because everyone will do what their trained and passionately can do.

Commanders, Cadres, Comrades and Combatants as we go to the conference lets not think only about ourselves but the million destitute South Africans who rely on you to help speed the process to bridge the gap between the first and second economy.

Mapungubwe, Africa’s First Economic Hub

By Eva Pebetse Ratau

24 October 2007

During my journey to Mapungubwe I found myself sitting at the hill of the jackal as part of my adventure, holding conversation with nature. I lay on the ground on top of the hill and meditated upon this question: is this where Africa’s wealth began? And if so how and where did all begin?

While in that moment of trance I found myself carried far from mankind and my imagination. Suddenly like a thief in the night my soul expanded and drifted and I felt a breeze passing through the branches of the trees in the valley and the air was talking to me. Yes this is where it all begun, the air whispered. My eyes and ears opened to the language of nature’s wonder and her secrets. I was ripe with curiosity to hear and learn more. What is to follow is my story of Africa’s first trade empire.

Long ago, before the days of the ivory hunters and the slave traders, when the Kingdom of the Rain Queen was not even thought of, and the war between Sekhukhune and the British was not plotted, the gold of Mapungubwe was buying wealth and prosperity from the East.

A community of skilled industrialists in their own right, the people of Mapungubwe created a civilisation of wealth on both sides of the Limpopo River, which pre-dated the likes of Great Zimbabwe and Thulamela. And today, we can share in the historical richness of this colourful culture, which is preserved in the Mapungubwe National Park, with its striking World Heritage Site.

It is said a nation without a history and its roots, does not have a future. Here, in Mapungubwe, visitors will discover for themselves why the relics from a distant lifestyle 2000 years ago carry a message of hope for today. Mapungubwe is situated 200 km from Polokwane and is surrounded by three SADC countries namely Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. There is a summit in the park called the confluence of Shashe.

This is where the Limpopo river meets. This point is the most interesting spot as you can see through the naked eye the three countries.

The history of Mapungubwe goes like this. A golden rhino, along with artefacts, glass beads and pottery, were unearthed during recent excavations inside the park by experts and academics from the University of Pretoria. According to this finding this information has provided ample evidence of the capabilities of the people of Mapungubwe many years ago to successfully trade in art and mining. There is also evidence that the Mapungubwe community had contacts with Islamic traders on the east coast, who were part of a larger Indian Ocean network. This relationship led to African gold and ivory being exchanged for beads and ceramics from as far afield as India, Indonesia and China.

This I am talking of loads of years ago before colonisation, BEE and globalisation were even thought of. Business was booming in the Mapungubwe kingdom and successfully so. The findings of the golden artefacts is still a mystery to most on how this could have been given the fact that there was no high tech machinery to melt material to a final product. But these findings and other artefacts preserved at the site makes a trip to Mapungubwe a fascination on how we Africans successfully conducted business that has build our continent’s economy. The intention with this article is not to spoil your fun but to get you to move from your coach and start seeing the picture in clear color that Africa was once a haven of economic success.

Did you know?

There is clear archaeological evidence that rhino once roamed this area, before being hunted to extinction. Hence South African National Parks reintroduced the rhino into the reserve. Other species that a traveller is sure to see are the rare and endangered species such as wild dog and roan antelope.

Background information on the site

This world heritage site and national park covers more than 28 000 hectares of land. A visit into the park takes one through the sophistication of how Africans used to trade with different parts of the world decades ago. The findings of the golden rhino and other artefacts confirms the fact that Africa has been the hub of economic development way before we were colonised.

For accommodation and tour packages into the park contact South African National Parks or our offices for a trip to remember.

University of Limpopo a True World Class African University

Written by Eva Pebetse Ratau a member of the France Mofapa Mohlala branch

9 October 2007

A province of immense opportunities, Limpopo is able to offer top training in the legal, medical, engineering, educational, tourism, mining, forestry, agricultural, conservation and public administration fields.

The University of the North, now merged with the Medical University of South Africa (MEDUNSA), the Tshwane (Pretoria) University and Technikon campuses in Polokwane while other trade and professional career training institutions have established excellent academic standards in the province.

It is befitting that the ANC will be hosting the upcoming 52nd National Conference at the University ground. This world class institution has trained leaders such as National Chairperson Mr Mosiua Lekota, Judge President Bernard Ngoepe, Ms Sanki Mahanyele, Ms Bridgitte Mabandla, Professor Sam Mokgokgong the leading neurosurgeon, Mr Noel Chabani Manganye the former vice Chancellor of the University of the North, Mr Rudolph Phala and many more.

Moria a Voyage of Redemption

Written by Eva Pebetse Ratau

9 September 2007

Awesome, blissful, mighty, mystical are just some of the words, I will use to explain my journey to Moria's September Conference held on the 02nd. Having been part of this year's Zion Christian Church convention I proudly speak of the African people's power and His Grace Bishop Barbabas Lekganyane who delivered a message of hope to the 2,5 million Zionists that attended the event.

This expedition to Moria every year offers hope to millions Africans alike. Just a few kilometers away from the entrance to the main gate I stood with awe and fullfiment to see all the people that traveled to Limpopo to listen to a message delivered by His Grace Lekganyane.

The message from the Bishop was clear: the power of knowledge, morality, respect is the essence of our humanity. Needless to say that just among the delegates was our President Thabo Mbeki, our Premier Sello Moloto, Dr Ngoako Ramathlodi, the President of China this holy place is a true destination for many believers & travelers.

As a writer I applaud the message that the Bishop delivered that without knowledge we are doomed as a nation. In this spirit I encourage that those that have not been to Moria to travel and experience the power of the land. I think its also befitting that our provincial and national tourism bodies have accorded Moria a destination status. Obviously most of the sacred rituals will still remain sanctified.

The Peaceful Pilgrims

The headquarters of Africa's largest indigenous church at Moria, some 40 km east of Polokwane, is the venue for a major annual Easter convention, attended by an estimated 2 million followers.

The Zion Christian Church, is understood to have a total membership of about 4 million, has large local congregations throughout Southern Africa, from Johannesburg and Durban to Mbabane and Lusaka.

The large annual influx of buses, taxis and pickups into Limpopo causes heavy traffic congestion at times, but the pressure on other road users has been relieved in recent years by careful staggering of arrival and departure times at Moria.

Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane has played an influential role in South Africa's relatively peaceful transition from the apartheid era to true democracy in the early 1990's hence the yearly attendance of many of our leaders.

Significantly, Bishop Lekganyane invited political leaders Dr Nelson Mandela, Mangusuthu Buthelezi and FW de Klerk to attend the main prayer service at the church's mountain retreat in 1994, prior to our nation's first fully democratic election. Since then, political leaders have visited Moria at regular intervals.

Bishop Barnabas has been part of an interesting family hierarchy of church leaders; succeeding his late father Edward as bishop in the early 1980's. His grandfather, Engenas Lekganyane, originally a Church of Scotland mission convert, founded the ZCC in 1925.

Most ZCC churchgoers wield considerable moral, social and economic influence by their weight of numbers. ZCC leaders in their respective churches always taken a firm stand against violence, while also consistently encouraging their followers to be law-abiding citizens.

An analysis of the past week's media report from a youth this century

08 - 18 August 2007

How good it will be if all of us South African's to work towards the same goals, of bettering the lives of many of our people that are desperately crying and calling out for help.

The past weeks reports has been a revelation to me a youth with hope and ambition for Africa. I think only if we could you use the energy and platform we have as the people to speak positively about our beautiful continent we would not have much to loose.

There seems to be a panic from certain quarters regarding the upcoming National Conference to be held in Limpopo. So much has been done by the current leadership in par with our Constitution. We are free. Why are we still fighting amongst ourselves? Why are we not building on the foundation we have designed? And this a question I ask myself, our leaders and even the branches. I think as we go to the National Conference we need to ask ourselves this question, WHAT WE ARE GOING TO SAY AND DO AT THE CONFERENCE THAT WILL MAKE OUR COUNTRY A PROSPEROUS AND BETTER PLACE TO LIVE IN.

First Lady of Limpopo to lauch South African Women in Dialogue

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Spokesperson for SAWID Limpopo

10 March 2005

The first lady of Limpopo, Me Ramokone Moloto will on the 2nd April 2005 launch the South African Women in Dialogue Limpopo. More than 600 delegates from six District Municipalities across the province and 400 dignitaries will converge at Cosmo Leisure for the two-day workshop. This platform will seek to discuss, share and commit the women of Limpopo to a programme of action to be implemented by the provincial SAWID committee.

Among some of the key speakers that will address the delegates are Me Manching Monama the Director General of Limpopo who will unpack opportunities for women as enshrined in the newly adopted Provincial Growth & Development Strategy. Other speakers will emanate from women who are experts in the field of Media & Communication, Government Procurement Processes, Leadership and Business Management.

The first annual SAWID dialogue took place in July 2003 and provided an opportunity for the women of South Africa to share their experiences towards peace and reconciliation. This was inspired by a successful dialogue between South African women with the women of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Following from this, the SAWID forum has been requested to facilitate other peace dialogue for women of Burundi, Ivory Coast.

"It is with this at heart that we deem it fit to launch this project in the province, says Me Moloto." The launch will take form of a two day Empowerment Lekgotla on the 02/03 April 2005 at Cosmo Lesiure and a Gala Dinner will be held on 2nd April. There are many challenges that face women today on the continent and in our province and through this initiative we will seek to find solutions to this challenges. Among some of the programmes and projects that the Limpopo SAWID branch will seek to tackle head on are poverty, HIV & AIDS, assisting and facilitating in the implementation of NEPAD's projects, create a platform for women in business across the Districts and Municipalities" says Me Moloto.

Background information on SAWID

South African Women in Dialogue is a non-profit organization initiated by the first lady of the country Me Zanele Mbeki. The project's main objectives is to provide a platform for ongoing dialogue among South African women to establish a common agenda for the development of women and seek to strengthen PAN African women partnerships in conflict resolution and management of peace and stability.

Contact at 015 297 6996 or 297 4054

And

Lucky Mogale Nchabeleng
Spokeperson: Ms Moloto
015 287 600
072 632 8984

Premier Moloto State of the Province address

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

22 February 2005

The way forward

Integration of all government programmes and close cooperation with the private sector and communities for maximum growth and the eradication of poverty through job creation. That is what Premier Sello Moloto sees as a winning formula for the development of the province in the year ahead. In his State of the Province address at the opening of the Limpopo legislature on Thursday, Moloto very thoroughly and honestly spelled out his vision for the future, but also admitted wrongdoings in government and proposed methods to curb that.

He emphasised the following important points to implement the provincial growth and development strategy in the province:

• working groups comprising business, labour and government at all levels, including municipalities should be formed;
• one major threat to the implementation is the availability of appropriate and competent skills and capacity;
• local people should benefit from development programmes such as mining;
• there is a need for a balanced approach in order to retain and even improve productivity in agriculture whilst the land claims are settled;
• security of both farmers and farm workers is receiving priority attention;
• in tourism there should be a stronger domestic content and regional focus to reaffirm Limpopo's status of being the haertland of SADC and a gateway to Africa;
• plans to build an international convention centre in Polokwane are at an advanced stage;
• bidding for the seat of the Pan African Parliament is receiving overwhelming support;
• the expanded public works programme is taking shape and is extended to municipalities;
• all developmental programmes of government at all levels should employ labour intensive methods;
• the payment cycle for work done for the provincial government remains 30 days but will be adhered to;
• the issue of capacity within the public service to implement government policies and programmes require constant monitoring and evaluation;
• the outcry about allegations of graft and corruption within the public service is a major concern;
• Government procures goods and services at prices far above the market value, sometimes inflated more than five times the actual value;
• in some instances government pays for the same service more than once;
• departments have been directed to develop guidelines to curb this tendency of inflated tender prices;
• government is concerned about the level of theft, pilferage and wastage that is taking place in many government institutions;
• a call is made to all organs of civil society, be it labour, business, churches and community-based organisations to assist in bringing this wastage to an end;
• social security grants are being abused and access to them are in some cases obtained illegally;
• planning endeavours are beginning to show signs of integration at all levels;
• monitoring and evaluation is unsuffiecient, hence the inability to determine the impact of policies and programmes;
• 1 646 headmen have now been appointed and the remaining 96 will be finalised before the end of March;
• issues commonly raised by the people include lack of roads, water, electricity and shabby treatment by public servants in various service delivery institutions;
• these challenges are acknowledged and government are doing everything in it's power to improve the situation;
• due to the unfavourable climatic conditions in Limpopo, a dire need exists for all to use water sparingly;
• the long term and lasting solution for the water shortage is the building more dams in the province;
• ward committees have been estalished throughout the province in order to bridge the gap between government planning and programmes implementation and community involvement;
• in the last festive season there has been a decline of about 20 percent n fatalities on the roads of the province;
• an international transport convention will be held in Limpopo during May;
• ritual killings, racial and witchcraft related crimes have occured during the past months and is a source of grat concerne to government;
• increasing levels of domestic violence and suicides is a worrying phenomenon and stems from expensive lifestyles which are unaffordable;
• there is a need to foster social cohesion and restoration of family values in an endeavour to build a caring society;
• the HIV and Aids epidemic continues to be a source of great concern and therefore the prevention and treatment campaign are implemented at the eight accredited sites - the aim is to expand this to as many health institutions as possible;
• immense resources have been invested in youth development programmes and interventions and it is for the youth to now seize these opportunities to secure a better future for themselves;
• there is an inability to overcome the backlog in classroom provisioning in education and the President's policy directive would not be realised of wiping out the shortage of classrooms by March this year;
• government must find a permanent solution to the recurring and persistent issue of temporary educators.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Premier at Water Summit...

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

22 February 2005

More dams needed

The building of more dams and better water harvesting and conservation methods are the only imaginable solutions for the water shortage in Limpopo.

This was the view of premier Sello Moloto when he opened the provincial water summit at Meropa yesterday. (Monday)''Government seeks permanent and lasting solutions to the problem of water shortages in communities in Limpopo. Water is a rare and basic commodity of life and should therefore be used sparingly and conserved. This summit is one means of resolving this problem given our otherwise dry and rain starved geograpic location,'' Moloto said. He stressed that government continious to implement its commitment of free basic clean water up to 6 kilolitres per month to all household.

''However, we know that there are communities in our province that still do not benefit from this provision, as we would like them to. The building of more dams and the employment of better and appropriate water harvesting and conservation methods would be the only imaginable solutions to this challenge,'' Moloto said.

He said that apart from water being essential in sustaining quality livelihoods in families, it also plays a catalyst role in facilitating local economic development, fighting poverty and averting the outbreaks of controllable diseases such as bilharcia and cholera.

The premier urged the department of Local Government and Housing to accelerate the process of devolving the water function to municipalities ''as a matter of urgency and need''.

''In municipalities where this function already exists the department of Water Affais and Forestry should provide the necessary support in ensuring that the development planning and the ability to spend such allocated funds and the operation of water services happens,'' Moloto stressed.

He indicated that his office continues to be ''inundated with grievances from communities'' who complain about water delivery whilst funds allocated to the municipalities ''remain unspent''.

''Similarly municipalities should also focus on efficient revenue collection for water services in order to ensure that there is sustainability in water service provision,'' Moloto said.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Premier's State of Province Address...

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

Communities of Thulamela praised

The communities of Thulamela municipality were praised for shouldering the responsibility for their own development in partnership with organs of the state.

And this praise came fron non other than Premier Sello Moloto in his State of the Province address when he opened the Limpopo legislature on Thursday.

The people of Thulamela came together as a collective in the true spirit of Letsema and Vukuzenzele to aid their municipality in the speedy delivery of electricity. Ten villages contributed about R4.2 million, and the municipality contributed the remaining amount. The electrification programme in these villages has been completed. The other group of eight villages has already contributed about R660 000 and the electrification process is due to be completed before the end of this financial year.

''Shouldering the responsibility for their own development, in partnership with organs of the state, and defying the helplessness characteristic of those who wait for delivery of services only from the state, they did this.

These communities understood that they cannot only be passive recipients of government services without active involvement. They clearly understand that the reconstruction and development of this country require theiractive participation,'' Moloto said.

Just two months ago, the community of Thulamela Municipality was recognised by the Minister of Provincial and Local Government for being exemplary in complementing government in its delivery of social services. Through partnership with the municipality the community has ''made us proud'' by scooping the Vuna Special Performance Excellence Award.

''They proved that communities in dire straits can be able to access basic services such as electricity without having to be constrained by projected timelines. We therefore would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the communities in Thulamela Municipality. We hope and trust that this sense of community spirit and voluntarism which is prevailing in these communities would spread throughout the Province. We call upon all municipalities in the province and councillors in particular, to emulate this example of community participation and involvement in the delivery of services. Clearly this kind of initiative resonates with the letter and spirit of the Freedom Charter when it says, 'the people shall govern','' Moloto said.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Premier says...

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

People have clarified goals

The people of Limpopo have over the past nine months redefined and clarified their development goals and objectives in their strive for excellence.This was stressed by the Premier of Limpopo, Mr Sello Moloto when he delivered his State of the Province address at the opening of the Limpopo Legislature on Thursday.

''True to the nature and character of the people of Limpopo, they have dedicated time in refocusing and redefining the development path through drawing on the important lessons from the past decade of freedom and democracy,'' Moloto said.

What emerged out of these elaborate and deeply intense consultative process was that the people of the province have identified priorities as follows:

• reaffirmed that development is about people and therefore comfortable with a people-driven and people-centred development process in order to improve the quality of their lives;
• there is a need to grow the economy in order to enhance the fight against poverty and create work;
• there is a need for the building of institutional capacity and efficiency in order to enhance innovation and competitiveness in service delivery;
• there is a need for both social and economic regional integration in order to give effect to Limpopo's strategic location as the heartland of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and gateway to the rest of Africa; and
• attention should be given to priority programmes like HIV and AIDS, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, Small Medium and Micro Enterprise development including a better and improved implementation of Local Economic Development programmes.

Implementation of Growth Strategy...

Working groups between business, labour and government needed Working groups comprising business, labour and government at all levels, including municipalities should be established in Limpopo.

This is, according to Premier Sello Moloto, necessary to implement the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy of Limpopo adopted in October last year.

Opening the Limpopo legislature on Thursday, Moloto said in his State of the Province address one major threat that has the potensial to ''undermine and derail'' the implementation of the Strategy is the availability of appropriate and competent skills with the relevant capacity to implement it.

''The Province has subsequently developed a human resource development strategy, which is an elaborate plan on how we are to tackle this potential obstacle. We envisage a more coherent and inclusive programme as we build adequate human resources for the future,'' said Moloto.

According to him the new Provincial Growth and Development Strategy's distinguise feature is anchored around the need for integration and clustering of projects or programmes. This approach is informed by the fact that development is multifaceted and recognises the urgency for convergence of all developmental plans by all spheres of government.

''Our strategy correctly identifies that working groups comprising business, labour and government at all levels, including municipalities should be established in each of the cluster value chains to achieve this.

''There is obviously a need to build a requisite infrastructure including provision of water, transport, electricity and appropriate information technology in order to improve integration, productivity and competitiveness within and across all the clusters. Our strategy also places a big premium on the need for proper research and development capacity within each cluster in order to maximise and promote new product opportunity development aimed at enhancing competitiveness and innovation within each cluster,'' said Moloto.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Mining needs to involve locals

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

The mining industry in Limpopo need to take certain steps to involve communities in the local benefication in the spirit of good neigbourship.

This was one the requests put to the business sector by Mr Sello Moloto, Premier of Limpopo when he delivered his State of the Province address at the opening of the legislature on Thursday.

He emphasised that the Provincial Growth and Development Strategy endorsed the seven major elements of the national mining charter. According to the premier these included the following that need to be implemented in Limpopo:

• the need for local procurement, particularly the non-core mining operations. These will include services such as security provision, gardening or landscaping, transportation, catering, cleaning and vending.

''These are the minimum services that should be provided by local people.

It has to be emphasised that local people should not only be engaged as workers in the provision of these services, but also as owners and directors of the companies responsible,'' Moloto said;

• the mining houses should develop human resource capacity for both their employees, unemployed youth and learners through provision of training opportunities in programmes like learnerships and internships. As part of their social upliftment programmes, students should also be assisted with bursaries;
• the common concerns of many communities around many mines have always been the increasing number of informal settlements, increasing levels of crime, health hazards like cracking houses, air and water pollution and increasing incidences of HIV and AIDS. The mining houses should obviously take keen interest in these matters in the spirit of good neighbourliness through their community development programmes;
• beneficiation
• it has been established that the labour absorption capacity of mining is very limited.

''There is a growing sense of a need to improve the value chain of our mining investments downstream in order to increase the capacity of this industry to create jobs. This can only be achieved if the mining companies are encouraged to be involved in the local beneficiation of their primary commodities,'' said Moloto.

• research and exploration the province has a great potential in mining.
  ''We are envisaging an increase in further investment in this sector due to the fact that the charter provides for incentives in research and exploration. We hope that continued research will provide solutions to even the challenges of beneficiation that we are facing'';
• ownership equity targets it is equally envisaging a through-going transformation of the sector and entrance of the new players through the implementation of ownership equity targets. ''This will obviously happen within the context of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment framework'';and
• employment equity targets the mining sector is also required to comply with labour relations regime of the country, particularly in terms of employment equity, safety and environment. ''As a province, given our experience with the problem of Asbestosis in Penge and Mafefe, we take a particular interest in issues of mining safety and management of the environment. Similarly, we are particularly worried about the possibility of a threat of water pollution and earth cracks in Phalaborwa. The necessary interventions will be made to avoid such a disaster,'' Moloto concluded.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Bid for PAP supported

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

Limpopo's bid for the seat of the Pan African Parliament is receiving overwhelming support, the Premier announced on Thursday.

Opening the Limpopo legislature with his State of the Province address, Mr Sello Moloto said all political parties, business and various organs of civil society in the province have come out in support of this initiative.

''The provincial government will continue to engage the relevant stakeholders and other provinces for the relisation of this initiative,'' Moloto said.

He also announced that plans to build an international convention centre in Polokwane ''are at an advanced stage''.

''In collaboration with Polokwane municipality we concluded a feasibility study. This confirmed that a middle size, high tech centre with a post-modernist African look and feel is needed,'' said Moloto.

He also said that the province is partnering with the Durban international convention centre who are providing support in drawing the architectural design, marketing and operational plans.

Contact

ANC Provincial Secretary
Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson
Joe Maswanganyi

Labour intensive programmes for jobs

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau, Schalk van Schalk Wyk

All development programmes of government at all levels should employ labour intensive methods, Premier Sello Moloto instructed on Thursday. In his State of the Province address at the opening of the Limpopo legislature he said the expanded public works programme is begnning to take shape.

''We are now at the stage where the programme is extended to municipalities. As a measure to responed adequately to the issue of poverty and unemployment all developmental programmes of government should employ labour intensive methods,'' the Premier said.

According to him a drawback which has been observed with this programme has been the fact that contractors and suppliers which are engaged are not adequately adhering to the principles of this programme.

The programme is also undermined by the fact that there are delays in the payment of workers and in certain instances there is underpayment or non-payment of workers at all. Government is equally not exonerated in this tendency because of the delays in the payment of contractors.

''We therefore recommit ourselves to ensuring that the payment cycle in government remains within thirty days. As we correct weaknesses on the government side, we will not tolerate any contractor or supplier who does business with government and continue to exploit workers,'' Moloto stressed.

Contact ANC Provincial Secretary - Cassel Mathale
ANC Spokesperson - Joe Maswanganyi

Boshielo gets town to the business of Tourism

Written by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

16 February 2005

The Chief Executive of Limpopo Tourism and Parks Board Mr Bennny Boshielo announced today in Limpopo that the Board is on schedule with regards to the commercialisation of nature reserves in the province. In the last months we've had consultation with our key stakeholders in the industry. We have met with land owners, Communities, product owners, SMME's and we've all reached a consensus that we need to speed up the process to transform the tourism industry to allow more black players into the fold.

Speaking from LTP headquarters in Polokwane Mr Boshielo committed and promised his undivided support to transforming the industry. And the commercialisation process is the first major step that government has committed itself to the implementation and monitoring of this process. This process is enshrined within Limpopo Growth Development Strategy which was recently adopted.

"The LGDS clearly sets out goals for us as a parastatal that by 2007 the province should have achieved a growth of 7% and double its contribution to R4 billion which will in turn create sustainable jobs within the industry, training SMME's, and ideally creating the brand called Destination Limpopo. This growth can only happen if we begin to unlock and unleash the immense opportunities abounded in the provincial tourism industry".

The tourism industry in Limpopo currently has two faces. One that is very competitive and the other side which include a few SMME's operators. For the economy of the province to grow we need to speed the process of introducing and supporting new role players. Its sad that as we are celebrating 10 years of democracy we still have a situation where the industry is still very exclusive, it is our prerogative as the board to change this. Tourism is a people centred and people driven industry it is one industry that merges culture and history together. This positive linkage should bring with it a strategy, that the board is finalising, to make sure that it works for its people who knows and can tell the story to tourists alike.

Many schools of thoughts and academics explain tourism differently. We as government explain tourism as a tool that we need to use to address development and the economic imbalances and bring the majority of the local communities into the mainstream of tourism.

Mr Bosheilo stressed that "My approach will be different as the man at the helm of this parastatal. We need to demystify the notion that tourism is a difficult industry to venture into. The Board has different resources available to assist those that want to get into the industy. The project at hand to help this process is the commercialisation of 15 nature reserves this year Our aim in doing this is to afford Previously Disadvantages People and entrepreneurs to get into the industry. We will make it our responsibility to remove any entry barriers for those taking part in this commercialisation program. Our approach will be a bottom/top approach where we will offer training, marketing services and facilitate finalisation assistance. This is in line with the provincial strategy of making sure that the economic growth is enjoyed by millions of Limpopo's citizens. It is our mandate as government to move our people from abject poverty to self empowerment. How do we do this? By channelling the concentration of capital and wealth redistribution from the vertical to the horizontal, thereby achieving our Broad Based Black Economic Imperative. It is undebatable that over the past decade of democracy the tourism industry in the province has seen one of the slowest transformation processes. Its our job to change this industry for our people and the future generations."

Contact Details : 082 218 5236

Hightlights of past nine months

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

10 February 2005

LIMPOPO’S provincial and local spheres of government recently evaluated the performance of the provincial government over the past nine months at an exco lekgotla.

The highlights of the year, as identified at the lekgotla include:

• The continuing growth of the economy - surpassing the national average and resulting in the unemployment rate dropping by 2 percent.
• An increased number of learners who passed the matric exams and Limpopo achieving the highest number passes in mathematics and natural science at higher grade.
• A year-to-date reduction in crime statistics compared to the corresponding period last year.
• Successful outreach programmes such as ''exco meet the people'' and the Batho-Pele roadshows, which made government more accessible to the people and served their needs and aspirations.
• Loans and guarantees provided to small, micro and medium enterprises (SMEEs) through the Limpopo De-velopment Corporation (LimDev) - thereby helping to create employment and reduce the number of jobless people.
• Development of a plan intended to cement Limpopo as the centre of the Southern African Development Com-munity economic gateway into Africa.
• Reducing the malaria mortality rate to less than 1 percent and tabling detailed plans to completely flush out this scourge.
• Continuing the roll-out of a com-prehensive HIV/Aids treatment cam-paign, including anti-retrovirals to all accredited hospitals.
• Successfully launching the expanded public works programme that provided much-needed jobs; and
• Aligning municipal integrated de-velopment plans and local economic development plans with the provincial growth and development strategy in order to consolidate, enhance and synergise government developmental plans.

Contact Details 082 218 5236
Schalk vanSchalkwyk
or
Cassel Mathale
Provincial Secretary at 082 379 1312
or
Joe Maswanganyi
Spokesperson at 083 645 5630

Grow economy and create jobs

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

10 February 2005

ECONOMIC growth, poverty reduction, job creation, building institutional efficiency and fighting HIV/Aids are what the people of Limpopo demand from the provincial government.

This is the conclusion the premier, his executive council and other important roleplayers came to after an executive lekgotla that was held in Bela Bela recently.

At a media briefing after the lekgotla, the director general of the province, Ms Manching Monama said the lekgotla was held to ''evaluate the performance of the provincial government over the past nine months and to plan for the next financial year and beyond''.

''All in all, the executive council lekgotla directed the provincial government to commit more resources to the development of infrastructure, develop small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) and related broad based black economic empowerment initiatives. This will enable our people to play a meaningful role in mainstream economic activity,'' Monama said. Together with the office of the provincial speaker, executive mayors and municipal managers of the six districts - as well as Polokwane - they unveiled programmes for 2005/06 to develop mechanisms to ''expedite the pace of service delivery by these spheres of government in line with the national agenda''.

In line with this, the lekgotla committed those present to ''priorities intended to reverse the frontiers of poverty to meet their obligations as enshrined in the people's contract to create work and fight poverty''.

These include:

• Expanding the capacity of the public service while introducing institutional efficiencies and efficacies to meet the priorities identified.
• Expediting the process of realigning and adapting the Further Education and Training (FET) curriculum, within the national parameters, to respond to the needs and priorities of the province as identified in our Human Resource Development Strategy.
• Establishing the Limpopo Airport Holdings as an autonomous corporate entity with its own Board of Directors and yet accountable to the Department of Roads and Transport, whose mandate will be the development of airport infrastructure in the province.
• Train and deploy more personnel for taking care of people living with HIV/Aids in hospitals that have been accredited to provide antiretrovirals, and those who provide home-based care to those infected.
• Finalising the provincial Nepad implementation plan in line with the provincil growth and development strategy (PGDS).
• Acceleration of expanded public works programme (EPWP)- with 40 learners graduated last year, and 80 more ready for intake this year.
• Engaging the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in providing the EPWP with technical support; and
• Align the municipal integrated development plans (IDP) and local economic development (LED) plans with the PGDS in order to consoli-date, enhance and synergise government developmental plans.

''These resolutions will be explored further and translated into imple-mentable plans when various MECs will be presenting their detailed budget vote speeches in the legislature during the course of next month,'' Monama said.

Contact Details 082 218 5236
Schalk vanSchalkwyk
or
Cassel Mathale
Provincial Secretary at 082 379 1312
or
Joe Maswanganyi
Spokesperson at 083 645 5630

Deliver services to everybody all over the province

Issued by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

10 February 2005

THE PEOPLE of Limpopo are all entitled to quality services and there should be no excuse for non-delivery - even in remote corners of the province.

That is the approach of Ms Maite Nkoana Mashabane, the new MEC for Local Government and Housing, expressed in her maiden speech at a welcoming function in Polokwane recently.

"In our democracy we need to implement the people's contract and policies of the governing ANC. To be able to do this properly, we all need to work together with dedication.

"We should not allow badly built houses or poor services. We have councillors all over the province, we have municipalities throughout and dedicated provincial and local officials that should prevent this [non-delivery of services]."

To achieve this there needs to be correct planning, cooperation and team spirit, Mashabane stressed.

"If we don't start leading from the front we will not be able to deliver properly and on time. We should also consult with the communities and traditional leaders in regard to proper planning in their areas.

"We should not hide problems. We need to know about problems and together we will be able to solve the problems as challenges," Mashabane said. She promised to visit all the districts as soon as possible to familiarise herself with the conditions and situation at grassroots level.

* In her farewell speech, out-going MEC Machwene Semenya said Mashabane takes over the department at a difficult time.

President Thabo Mbeki has tasked municipalities to speed up and perform better with service delivery.

"Political leaders take decisions on policy matters, but the implementation of this should be enhanced by dedicated officials in cooperation with the communities they serve. You don't need bureaucrats to implement, but you need loyal people, not people giving excuses for non-deliverance," Semenya said.

She requested close cooperation between the Department of Local Government and Housing and her new department, Safety, Security and Liaison, as "crime often occurs in informal settlements.

Contact Details 082 218 5236
Schalk vanSchalkwyk
or
Cassel Mathale
Provincial Secretary at 082 379 1312
or
Joe Maswanganyi
Spokesperson at 083 645 5630

Finance Minister makes funds available to Limpopo

THE MINISTER of Finance, Mr Trevor Manuel, has made an additional allocation of R565 082 000 to the Limpopo provincial government for the 2004/05 financial year.

Published in the Government Gazette of 8 December 2004, this additional money is provided to fund "unforeseeable and un-avoidable spending pressures, including social security grants and increased salary benefits" in accordance to the division of Revenue Act.

Under specific purpose alloca-tions to provinces, Limpopo received an additional R2-million for drought relief to farmers in identified areas.

Another R2 044 000 has been allocated to address the degra-dation of natural and agricultural resources and to improve the socio-economic status and food security of rural communities.

Limpopo Matric results are tops

Issued by the ANC in Limpopo

LAST YEAR’S matric results have proved that the quality of education has improved significantly since the dawn of democracy in the country.

That is the view expressed by the Limpopo Youth Commission in it’s response to the results.

"We welcome the 2004 Senior Certificate Results, which shows an improvement of 0.6% from the previous year’s results. We are encouraged by the increased pass rate of learners who were pursuing commercial, maths and science subjects. We are further pleased with the progress made in reducing a number of dysfunctional schools from 29 in 2001 to six this year," Ms Joyce Tsipa, deputy chairperson of the commission said.

She said they are looking forward to the day when there are no more dysfunctional schools in Limpopo.

"Meanwhile, we acknowledge the 70.6% pass rate and congratulate those who have passed, we are also conscious of the 29.4% of our learners who did not make it this year. Our message to them is that they should not lose hope but rather rise again with courage and vigour to confront the new academic year.

"We welcome the commitment by the two provincial universities (University of Limpopo and University of Venda for Science and Technology) to enrol the new entrants and provide financial support to deserving students. We advise students to visit various government departments as soon as possible to request financial support to pursue their studies. "We applaud the good work done by Department of Education and all stakeholders within the education fraternity in Limpopo," Tsipa concluded.

* The Youth League of the African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo said the results confirm "that our education system in Limpopo is in a state of near perfection as envisaged by the Freedom Charter".

"Since the collapse of the apartheid Bantu education a decade ago, wherein the pass rate in Limpopo was at around 30 percent, we are now witnessing a consistent spiral improvement that has now reached 70,6 percent.

"We are however concerned about the harsh reality that not all of those who have passed matric will have access to higher education nor access to employment opportunities in 2005," Mr Julius Malema, provincial secretary of the Youth League said.

Contact details
Eva Pebetsi Ratau
082 218 5236
Schalk van Schalkwyk
082 802 4719
Julius Malema
ANC Youth League Provincial Secretary
082 977 7040

Polokwane International Airport on the Highway to success

Issued: On behalf of Polokwane International Airport by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

30 November 2004

Polokwane International Airport Limited has embarked on a development strategy which will enable it to take its rightful place among the country's top aviation centres.

"Ownership of the airport, which was originally part of an air force base, was transferred to the Limpopo provincial government in 1995 and commercialised services started operating in February, 1996", explained Mr Shadrack Ramusa the Chief Executive Officer of Polokwane International Airport.

He continued to say, "Polokwane International Airport is one of ten airports in South Africa which currently hold international licences and the only one in Limpopo Province. It has fully operational customs and immigration facilities."

With customs and immigration operating on a permanent basis, the airport is able to facilitate any international air traffic. The airport operates from 06h00 to 20h00 from Monday to Friday, from 07h00 to 15h00 on Saturday and 12h00 to 20h00 on Sunday with the possibility of an extended period upon request.

The airport operates a category seven rescue and fire fighting service, with plans already in place to achieve a category 9 by the year 2005.

Ms Patricia Tharage, General Manager of Marketing and Planning explained that, "As part of the infrastructure upgrade to create world class aviation facilities, the airport has set aside R30 million for the extension of the runway to accommodate Boeing 747, for the upgrading of its navigation aids with the installation of new ILS and CVOR and DME and erection of a new air traffic tower, construction of a cargo warehose and cold storage during the current financial year".

Tenders are already out for the appointment of consulting engineers for the design and drawing of terms of reference for the construction of the infrastructure.

"The airport pride itself with the aviation security services in place and intends to build on the synergy with the South African security agencies to ensure a safe and secure environment for aviation growth. The airport acknowledges all stakeholders and in particular all our tenants operating from the airport for cooperating to ensure zero tolerance to aviation security breaches", concluded Mr Ramosa.

Tel: 015 297 3354 or 082 218 5236
Fax: 015 297 2807
Email: evaratau@yahoo.com

OR

Contact: Achatakali Patracia Tharage
General Manager: Marketing and Planning
Polokwane International Airport
Tel: 015 288 0122
Fax: 015 288 0346
Mobile: 083 400 7843
Email: patriciat@pi-airport.co.za

Discover Limpopo this festive season

Issued by: On behalf of the African Ivory Route, Eva Pebetsi Ratau

27 November 2004

This festive season the African Ivory Route is offering adventurous visitors and travellers alike a once in a lifetime unique outdoor experience they will never forget,' announced Mr Charles Maluleke Senior General Manager: Tourism and Environment at the Department of Finance and Economic Development.

Mr Maluleke said; 'As part of our marketing drive we will be encouraging travellers and visitors to take advantage of our special rates to explore the cultural history of Limpopo and to also experience the wildlife and scenic beauty of our province'.

On Tuesday, 30 November 2004 the management and team members of the African Ivory Route will embark on an aggressive campaign to encourage local travellers to visit the Ivory Route camps. We will also launch our festive campaign that will run on print and electronic media. This campaign will seek to encourage local tourists to take advantage of the affordable packages that will be on offer from December to February 2005. This campaign will kick off with a bush breakfast at Pietersburg Game Reserve and will lead to the streets of Polokwane  where brochures and goodies will be given away.

Mr Maluleke further said that, 'As part of the packages that will be on offer will be accommodation from as little as R150 at camps like Manyeleti, the "place of the stars. This camp offer the visitor a superior game viewing including the big five, while the Modjadji camp holds the legends and secrets of age-old cultures and rituals".

Based on legendary tales from the smuggling era of the previous century the African Ivory Route was launched 4 years ago with the purpose of introducing local rural communities to the eco-tourism industry. This project seeks to promote the culture of travelling ones Province.

Mr Maluleke explained that by welcoming locals and foreigners into their villages, to most local communities this has been a new and fulfilling experience. The communities are now starting to reap the benefits of this innovative project.

He concluded by saying that plans are afoot to expand the scope of the African Ivory Route and its attractive product.

As part of this plan, this festive season we are calling upon all visitors to explore the preferred eco-tourism destination in Southern Africa. We know that the more visitors come and join us in the province the more jobs we will be able to create and more communities will reap the rewards.

Tel: 015 297 5534
Mobile: 082 218 5236
OR
Contact: Moses Ngobeni
Tel: 015 298 7000
Mobile: 082 903 2273
OR
Contact: Klaas Bonzai
African Ivory Route
Project Manager

Tel: 015 295 3025 or 291 3717
Mobile: 082 904 5877 or 083 249 3093
Fax: 015 291 2656
E-mail: info@africanivoryroute.co.za
Website: www.africanivoryroute.co.za

Bigger, Better and Faster Travel Services

24 November, 2004

In line with its vision of being recognised as a transformed and successful world class international airport, that positively touches the lives of all people, Polokwane International Airport is ready to set new standards of excellence in 2005.

However, the services to be offered will be affordable, convenient and accessible, designed to meet the needs of all clients, from articulate tourists to demanding importers and exporters.

“Starting with the introduction of larger aircraft and more frequent scheduled flights on the Polokwane-Johannesburg route in 2005, the airport will be called upon to handle larger numbers of people daily,” explained Ms Patricia Achatakali Tharage the General Manager of Marketing and Planning at Polokwane International Airport.

Ms Tharage further said that, “As an introductory offer, return flights to and from the Johannesburg International Airport. Obviously the carrying capacity of the daily flights will increase dramatically, and the in-flight service will be the very best”.

To meet the needs of business executives wishing to spend a day in Gauteng, discussions and negotiations are at a final stage to finalise the early flight take off time, while return flights might also be available late each afternoon.

Apart from improved comfort on the new, large capacity flights, travel time from Polokwane to Johannesburg will be reduced to a mere 40 minutes!

“With its new, highly motivated management team, Polokwane International Airport Limited (PIAL) stands by its undertaking to be a commercially-driven organisation, committed to delivering excellent economic and social benefits for all its stakeholders. In addition, the company will ensure the maintenance of high standards of safety, security and orderliness”, said Mr Shadrack Ramusa the Chief Executive Officer of Polokwane International Airport.

“The final objectives must always be satisfied customers, full utilisation of state-of-the-art technology, the promotion of innovative ideas, diversity among employees, respect for the environment, and good returns for shareholder investments,” concluded Ms Tharage.

Annual Premier's Awards Ceremony.

Issued by the ANC in Limpopo

14 November 2004

Public Works does it again, Mnandi top individual

The department of Public Works has for the second time in three years been adjudged the best government deparment in Limpopo for which it received the Platinum Award at the annual Premier's Awards Ceremony in BaPhalaborwa recently during a glittering event.

Mr Philip Mnandi, a disabled person, was awarded the Platinum Award for an individual as the Best Public Servant in Limpopo.

The Platinum Award for a team or section of a department was awarded to the Mopani South East team.

In a short message at the event Premier Sello Moloto said that all public servants in Limpopo should be acknowledged, ''but in a race there will always be a winner, but those who don't cross first have also run the marathon''.

''Likewise many public servants have done their bit in rendering good services to the people of Limpopo, but tonight we award those who have won.

For those who have not won, run even better next year than you might be the winner and being awarded,'' Moloto said.

He emphasised that the Limpopo government have gone ''out of our way'' to get independent assessors to adjudge the winners and make it as transparent as possible.

''We are proud to award to those who have been found extra ordinary and have performed better than the rest and have served the people of our province acceptionally well,'' Moloto said.

Awards were awarded in three categories namely for individuals, groups or teams and the best department as a whole.

In each of the categories either a silver, gold or platinum award was awarded with the platinum award to the best performer in the category. In the individual category five silver awards, as well as R10 000 were awarded, three golden awards and R20 000 each and one platinum and R30 000.

The winners were:

Silver: Mr G Horn, Mr M P Nong, Mr D Apather, Ms Gladys Nthalungu and Mr M J Ramabingo;
Gold: Mr J Chimanzi, Ms F S Maguga and Ms B M Masete;
Platinum: Mr P Mnandi.

In the group or team awards went to:

Silver and R30 000 each: Piet N Aphane School; Agriculture Finance Team and Local Government and Housing's Information Unit;
Gold and R40 000: Thengwe High School and Health and Welfare's Waste Management Team.
Platinum and R50 000: Mopani South East.

In the competition for departments the department of Agriculture (last years winner) won silver and R10 000; gold and R20 000 was won by the department of Health and Welfare and the overall winner and winner of the Platinum Award and R30 000 was the department of Public Works.

For more information please contact Eva Ratau at 015 297 5534 / 082 218 5236 OR Provincial Secretary : Mr Cassel Mathale at 082 379 1312 OR Spokesperson : MR Joe Maswanganyi at 083 642 5630

Limpopo a preffered destination for donor funding

Despite weaknesses the Limpopo province continues to be a preferred destination for the donor community and this bestows an immense responsibility on the province to make sure that donor funding and overall management is streamlined and corrected.

This was said by Mr Sello Moloto, Premier of Limpopo when he addressed delegates to a Donor Conference at Vanetia Mine near Musina.

''We are the first to acknowledge that despite the impressive achievements we made as a province in relation to donor funding, there are some weaknesses which we have observed in the past ten years. Our overall management of donor funding has been reactive and uncoordinated. There seems to be some lack of understanding between us and the donor community around priorities in the province.

Nevertheless, the reviewed Provincial Growth and Development Strategy (PGDS) begins to clearly set out priorities which we think we should be focusing on as the province, these would include poverty,unemployment, infrastructural development and skills shortage. We would want to underscore the fact that despite weaknesses mentioned earlier, our province continues to be a preferred destination for the donor community. This bestows an immense responsibility on us to make sure that our donor funding and overall management is streamlined and corrected,'' Moloto said.

According to him the province is currently working on a donor-funding framework which is aimed at streamlining and correcting the identified weaknesses. ''We view this conference as a platform which presents a possibility and unique opportunity for all stakeholders to engage and deliberate on the framework in order to ensure that all parties’ wishes and interests are well catered for and respected''.

''We would like, in advance, to thank all the donor agencies, embassies and corporate business for the support which we have received in the past ten years and continue to enjoy. Many of you, because of your support and contribution, are tending to become valuable citizens of this province and we welcome this development. It is our considered view that many within the donor community have always wanted to join this winning nation of South Africa and Limpopo in particular. Our PGDS provides an ample opportunity for you to lend your helping hand. For it is within reach, possible and can be done,'' Moloto said.

He referred to the fact that the second PGDS has just been adopted and this strategy will serve as a development framework for the province over the next five to ten years and beyond. It is a culmination of a two to three year review process that was meant to ensure that the strategy is adjusted to new conditions. The review process has been characterized by rigorous consultations with almost all stakeholders, within both the public and private sectors.

According to him the distinguishing feature of this new approach is anchored around the need for integration and clustering of projects or programmes. This approach is informed by the fact that development is multifaceted and recognizes the urgency for convergence of all developmental plans by all spheres of government.

''We would once again stress emphatically that we are not contemplating any change or shift of the existent policies. Our focus will be on policy implementation, one area which the ten-year review identifies as our major weakness. The strategy envisages a greater focus on the implementation of these policies in order to intensify the fight against poverty and unemployment,'' Moloto stressed.

He said the period preceding the Provincial Growth and Development summit saw sectoral summits for two purposes, namely:

• to consult and engage the private sector for a collective review on how the economy has been performing in the past ten years; and
• to solicit a buy-in from the private sector in order to foster a common understanding amongst all stakeholders on the new direction taken with development, particularly around fighting of poverty and creating work.

The summits have, according to the premier further assisted to identify the areas which government and public sector in general should be focusing on in order to create a conducive environment for investment and sustainable economic development.

''We have also learnt from these summits that development can never be sustainable without broad based community involvement and empowerment.

We are indeed pleased that we are now able to understand and appreciate the potential and critical areas for private sector investment in general and donor funding in particular. The issue of developing the secondary industry around our competitive edges, i.e. mining, tourism and agriculture, both up-stream and down-stream, has never been as clearly defined and illustrated as it is now.

''Everybody is agreeing that we can only be able to expand the labour absorption capacity of these competitive edges if we concentrate our efforts on building secondary industry along the value chain. It has become clear to us that a prerequisite for the realization of these objectives is a need for adequate provision of requisite human capital and infrastructure for water, road network, energy, telecommunications and other services.

''It is, however, necessary to indicate that Limpopo provincial government would obviously not have all resources to provide for the infrastructure and related services at once. There would still be a need for partnership with donor agencies, corporate business and private sector in general.

Our strategy recognizes the importance of linking up with the Southern Africa Developent Community (SADC) and African Union (AU) as a whole as we are the heartland of SADC and gateway to Africa. Our strategic location demands of us to take earnest interest in the unfolding developments within the AU and NEPAD,'' Moloto said.

For more information please contact Eva Ratau at 015 297 5534 / 082 218 5236 OR Provincial Secretary : Mr Cassel Mathale at 082 379 1312 OR Spokesperson : MR Joe Maswanganyi at 083 642 5630

Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims appointed by President Mbeki

14 November 2004

The President Mr Thabo Mbeki has appointed a Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims in terms of section 23 of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act No. 41 of 2003.

Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo chairs the Commission The Ralushai Commission's Report on Traditional Leadership in Limpopo is being referred to this commission. In a press statement ''on the Ralushai commission's report'' the Minister of Provincial and Local Government, Mr Sydney Mufamadi announced that the Ralushai Commission's report, that was handed to the former Premier Ngoako Ramatlodi in October 1998 and neither ''accepted or rejected'' would be handad to a new commission appointed by President Thabo Mbeki.

Mufamadi announced that Mbeki has appointed a Commission on Traditional Leadership Disputes and Claims in terms of section 23 of the Traditional Leadership and Governance Framework Act No. 41 of 2003.

Professor Thandabantu Nhlapo chairs the Commission and it is in the process of preparing for public hearings to be held at such places as it determines. At the same time, the Commission is collating all information and documentation that may be useful in the execution of its task. In an effort to assist the Commission, the Ministry for Provincial and Local Government has handed all relevant research materials, including reports of various commissions of inquiry appointed in provinces such as the Eastern Cape, Free State, North West and Limpopo.

''During 1996, the former Premier of Limpopo, Advocate Ngoako Ramathlodi, appointed the Ralushai Commission of Inquiry to investigate, among others, claims by certain traditional leaders that they were irregularly deposed or not duly recognized by the previous government.

During October 1998, a report was submitted to the former Premier. The Limpopo Provincial Government did not accept nor reject the recommendations of the Ralushai Commission. Instead, the former Premier handed over the report to the Ministry for Provincial and Local Government as a contribution to the process of developing a national policy on the matter of traditional leadership disputes and claims. The policy formulation process has now been completed and has given birth to the Commission appointed by President Mbeki recently,'' Mufamadi said.

The Ministry for Provincial and Local Government has handed over the Ralushai Commission's report to the Commission chaired by Nhlapo.

''The Department of Provincial and Local Government will take the necessary steps to ensure that the relevant information contained in the Ralushai Commission report is made available to all affected parties (to the extant that it refers to them), who submitted their claims and disputes. This information will assist them to prepare for submissions to the national commission and assert their rights,'' Mufamadi concluded the statement.

For more information please contact Eva Ratau at 015 297 5534 082 218 5236 OR Provincial Secretary : Mr Cassel Mathale at 082 379 1312 OR Spokesperson : MR Joe Maswanganyi at 083 642 5630

Limpopo Tourism embarks on Commercialisation Roadshow

Issued : On behalf of Limpopo Tourism and Parks by Eva Pebetsi Ratau

7 November 2004

As part of efforts to unlock the economic opportunities within the eco-tourism industry in the province, Limpopo Tourism and Parks has embarked on a programme to commercialise 15 of its 53 nature reserves to enhance its capabilities to attract local and international tourists, to create job and business opportunities especially through Black Economic Empowerment, empower communities, generate income and protect the resource base through appropriate and sustainable land usage.

“Limpopo Tourism and Parks is not resting on its laurels to implement government’s programme as outlined by the newly revised Limpopo Growth Development Strategy which was adopted in October 2004. As part of the first phase the Board conducted a site due diligence for each of the 15 reserves to determine the status quo.” explains Mr Fixon Hlungwani, General Manager of Parks.

Key among issues that the strategy seeks to address is job creation and doubling tourism’s contribution to the provincial economic wealth within the next five years.

At present tourism contributes around 3.5 % of the provincial Gross Domestic Product and its envisaged that this percentage will be doubled by 2007 which will lead to job creation within the eco-tourism industry.

“The mandate we got from the Premier, Mr Sello Moloto and the majority of the people in the province is that they need jobs and opportunities within all sectors of government. Tourism being one of the major contributors to the success of the province we saw it fit to roll out the commercialisation programme to put tourism into a new trajectory of growth. Among key of the campaign is to solicit input from all our stakeholders to feed into the feasibility study that will lead to the commercialisation programme” says Mr Hlungwani.

Much work has already been done. Through a tender process the Board has appointed a transaction advisor who is tasked with assisting and bringing in the technical expertise in rolling out the commercialisation programme.

He continued to say,” This is the second phase where we will be interacting with key stakeholders, local communities, chiefs, land claimants, prospective investors, our plan and receiving input and feedback in order to finalise the feasibility study. At the end of the day we want this process to be representative of the expectations of our people and to meet the market demands”.

A task team that comprises staff from the Board and other stakeholders has been put in place to workshop the proposed commercialisation programme. Meetings with the public sector agencies, staff, local communities will be held during November 2004. These roadshow will unfold at the scenic and beautiful Nwanedi Reserve on 09th November 2004. On Wednesday 10th November we will be at Magoebaskloof Hotel where we will outline the commercialisation plan for the Tzaneen Dam, Lekgalameetse & Hans Merensky Reserve. Our next stop will be at Sanbonani Hotel in Hazy View where we will discuss potential investment opportunities of Mangwazi Nature Reserve.

We will then be at Klein Kariba in the Bela Bela region where we will orkshop and request feedback on the proposed developments of the Rust de Winter & Doorndraai Dam. D’Nyala Nature Reserve will be our next stop where Masebe, Mokolo, Wonderkop and Blouberg Reserves will be discussed. Our last stop will be at Atherstone Nature Reserve on 18 November.

It’s our vision as the Board to consult extensively with all our stakeholders and consider their recommendations because the success of these projects should benefit all the people of Limpopo and South Africa as a whole.

I’d like to invite all the interested parties to please come on board. As the Board we envisage that by 2007 Limpopo would have doubled its income and create jobs. Our goal is also to make sure that the eco-tourism industry is truly representative and addresses the legacy of the past.’ concluded Mr Hlungwani.

To take part in the roadshows please contact Eva Pebetsi Ratau or Joey Rasebotsa at 082 218 5236 or 015 297 5534 or fax 015 297 2807 or email mmc@mmcon.co.za or evaratau@yahoo.com.

Tel: 082 218 5236 or 015 297 3354

OR

Contact: Mr Fixon Hlungwani
General Manager Parks
082 775 3176

OR
Khorombi Matibe
Senior Manager Marketing
082 5664257

Note to the Editor

Tourism Growth Plan as adopted in the 2004 October Limpopo Growth and Development Strategy

Tourism activities contribute approximately 4% to the provincial economy, which has not change significantly during the past five years. This is disconcerting, because tourism is considered to be a competitive advantage to the Province, together with agriculture and mining. The Tourism Growth Plan (which is obtainable from the Tourism and Parks offices)is a deliberate intervention strategy to double the contribution from tourism to provincial economic wealth creation within the next five years. This development strategy is founded upon the commercialisation of government nature reserves, the promotion of tourism clusters or destinations with routes between them, and targeted marketing on behalf of tourism operator’s within those destinations.

The Tourism Strategy identified 22 new projects within the nine nodes or destinations in the province, to promote tourism cluster or value-chain development within Limpopo. The intention is to draw more visitors to the Province, keep them longer in order that the tourism spend may increase and employ and empower more people within the industry, by way of increased and expanded facilities. In this manner, Limpopo could double the contribution from tourism to the provincial economy.

To obtain a copy of the revised and adopted Limpopo Growth and Development Strategy visit www.limpopo.gov.za or www.golimpopo.com.

Limpopo's Municipalities get boost

Issued by ANC in Limpopo

3 November 2004

FOURTEEN municipalities in Limpopo have been included in Government’s Project Consolidate - a hands-on engagement and support programme to address local government’s main challenges by focusing on capacity building and support.

"The principal purpose of this initiative is to deepen the thrust and impact of existing policies and programmes directed at local government. This two-year engagement programme is going to allow national and provincial government, together with key partners in the private sector, to find new, creative, practical and impact orientated modes of engaging, supporting and working with local government," Mr Sydney Mufamadi, Minister of Provincial and Local Government said on Friday at the project’s launch.

According to Mufamadi, the primary focus of the targeted, hands-on engagement programme will be on areas requiring immediate and direct action.

Teams will be deployed to work at municipal level, assisting in addressing practical issues of service delivery and local governance.

Specific areas will include:

• Public participation, ward committees and community development workers