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Forward from the MEC
ON THE MOVE
EDITORIAL
Editor
Octavia Mamabolo
Sub Editor
Melitah Madiba
Editor’s Note
Photography
Godfrey Phalatsi, Sipho Tshabalala,
Koena Moabelo, Gautrain
Budget Speech
Youth Day celebration
Contributors
Godfrey Phalatsi, Sipho Tshabalala,
Melitah Madiba and Noxolo Ntlokwana,
Koena Moabelo
Chinese delegation visit
Sudanese delegation visit
Design and layout
Blu Print Media
UITP award
On the Move is a quarterly published
publication aimed at highlighting the
Gauteng Department of Roads and
Transport service delivery milestones,
programmes, projects and events.
Improving CIDB grading
of contractors
Intermodal facilities to
improve accessibility, safety
Address contributions to:
The Editor: Octavia Mamabolo
Tel: 011 355 7379
Email: CommunicationsGPDRT@
gauteng.gov.za or GPRoads.Transport@
gauteng.gov.za
Kliptown
R24 unveiling
Sekweri road project
N14 Benschoeman
Manage your finance
12
Social scenes
Crossword puzzle
04
Vision
World-class roads and transport infrastructure networks and systems that facilitate seamless
mobility of goods and people within Gauteng.
Mission
To provide an environmentally sustainable road infrastructure and integrated transport systems
and services that are reliable, accessible, safe and affordable which promotes socio-economic
development in Gauteng.
On The Move | 1
Foreword by MEC Ismail Vadi
Let’s do it.
Be On
the Move!
I am delighted with the launch of On the Move. One of the
hallmarks of a successful and high performing organisation is
the dissemination of accurate, crisp and timely information to
all within its ranks. On the Move will aim to foster effective
employee communications. It will provide a platform to staff
members to offer their knowledge, insight and advice to
everyone else in the organisation.
It also will enhance the reputation of the department and
provide information to external audiences. It is our way of
ensuring that we keep the connection between those that
are the lifeblood of the Department.
Our Communication Team could not have come up with a
more apt and downright cool name for our newsletter - On
the Move. In this year’s Transport Budget Speech, I adapted
and quoted the lyrics of the idol star, Khaya Mthethwa, which
goes as follows:
I want Gauteng to move, move;
let me see you move, move, move.
Gauteng baby, I want you to move, move, move;
Let me see move, move, move, without crashing into me!
Our motto and branding, Gauteng on the Move, captures the
spirit of who we are - zestful, youthful, futuristic, optimistic
and fired up. Like the youth of June 16th, we will be on the
move, always. As public servants we must balance our rights
as employees with our concomitant responsibilities to our
citizenry.
We must zealously carry out our tasks to ensure that we meet
the rightful expectations of our people. In the 20th year of
our democracy we can look back with pride at what we have
accomplished. Yet, it is not enough. The future beckons us to
do more with deeper commitment and greater dedication.
I know that we can rise to this challenge. Ours is an
indomitable spirit of endurance and good governance. Ours
is a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous future.
Only because, we are on the move!
2 | On The Move
Editor’s Note
The launch is in
response to our
readers who have
been asking us to
re-introduce the
newsletter as it
was a vehicle in
which they could
be updated on
the department’s
activities and
projects
Welcome to the launch issue of our
quarterly publication "On the Move".
The launch is in response to our
readers’ needs to re-introduce a
departmental newsletter, which
will serve as a vehicle through
which they could be updated on
the department’s projects and
programmes.
This publication promises to provide
a young, fresh look and feel whilst
addressing key delivery issues in the
department.
With over one thousand five hundred
youth in our employ, this indeed
confirms the 2011 census report that
revealed that our country is young.
Continuing on the youth theme, this
month we celebrated youth day by
"honoring the 1976 youth"
The department hosted a very
successful internal youth day event
with prominent motivational speaker
and author Timothy Morris , and the
"one day leader " winner, Ndumiso
Hadebe.
We kick off our first edition with
a special focus which outlines the
2013/2014 budget allocations.
This year R4.7 million has been
allocated to the department to
undertake various roads, transport
infrastructure development projects.
The department hosted the Sudanese
and Chinese delegations respectively,
both country representatives praised
our transport system as amongst the
best.
The delegations were given a tour
around the Sanral nerve centre
and took train and bus rides with
Gautrain and Rea Vaya.
We also cover the Gautrain success
which is now fully operational with
over 11 million passengers using the
train.
With more than 3.5 million
passengers using the Gautrain buses
also proves that the province has
made major inroads in terms of
transforming the transport system in
the province
I want to extend my gratitude to all
who contributed to this first edition.
Happy reading!!!
Octavia Mamabolo
Editor
On The Move | 3
MEC Vadi tables department's
budget
2013/14
MEC Ismail Vadi presenting the departmental budget
at the Provincial Legislature. MEC Vadi said R4,7 billion
has been allocated to the department to undertake
various roads, transport infrastructure developments
and related projects during this financial year.
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has
made significant strides in the last few years to improve
the department’s service delivery record.
Godfrey Phalatsi
4 | On The Move
It is expected that rehabilitation of the network will
be maintained to satisfactory standards that contribute
to economic growth and job creation
Delivering the department's 2013/14
budget, MEC Ismail Vadi said R4,7
billion has been allocated to the
department to undertake various
roads, transport infrastructure
developments and related projects
during this financial year. The
department has set aside R667
million to continue with routine
and preventative maintenance of
the provincial roads network. It
is expected that rehabilitation of
the network will be maintained to
satisfactory standards that contribute
to economic growth and job creation.
MEC Vadi added that the maintenance
and construction of 5000km of the
paved and 1500km of the gravel road
network provincially, particularly key
arterial routes such as Beyers Naude
Drive, Malibongwe Drive, the R55 and
portions of the R82 (Old Vereeniging
Road), including the rehabilitation
of the N1 and M1 freeways between
Johannesburg and Pretoria will also
be undertaken.
The MEC also announced that the
Gautrain Management Agency has
been allocated R801 million while
the Provincial Treasury will provide
an additional R623 million for
ridership guarantee. He indicated
that the department will continue
with planned projects in its Design,
Construction and Maintenance SubProgrammes over the next two years
with the objective of contributing to
provincial economic growth and job
creation.
On road designs, MEC Vadi indicated
that designs for the major routes that
include K15 between Dobsonville
and Leratong (Phase 3); R82 (Phase
2) between Walkerville and De Deur;
K164 linking Evaton and Meyerton;
K60 between Kyalami Road and
Rivonia Road; as well as K109 near
Tembisa will be undertaken during
this financial year.
With an allocation of R531 million,
the construction sub-programme will
focus on completing the following
projects:
∙ R82 (Old Vereeniging Road, phase
1);
∙ K154 (which provides access to the
Gauteng Highlands Developments);
∙ R103 (Nederveen Road from
Forsdick Road to Barry Marias Road);
∙ K60 between Megawatt Park to
Corporate Park;
∙ K14 between the Chris Hani Flats
and Cullinan; and
∙ William Nicol Drive.
The department has also been
entrusted with coordinating the
development of provincial freight
and logistics hubs.
During the current financial year,
attention will be paid to the
development of the City Deep Freight
Terminal and to continue with plans
for the Tambo-Springs Inland Port.
The City Deep Project is a unique
‘public-public partnership’ that
includes Transnet, SANRAL, City of
Johannesburg and the Department.
Reporting on the progress made, the
MEC noted that Phase 1 of the City
Deep/Kazerne Terminal expansion
and roads upgrade is currently
underway.
Work on the widening of
Rosherville Road and more detailed
planning for the expansion of the
road network surrounding the
Terminal is progressing. In total,
the Department will be spending
R122 million for road works whilst
Transnet will invest a further R900
million in upgrading the terminal
and railway sidings.
MEC Vadi also announced that the
department has developed strategic
partnerships with Transnet, ACSA,
PRASA, the Gauteng Management
Agency, the South African Post
Office and SANRAL. He said that as a
collective, these organizations “have
made the construction of roads; the
development of key freight corridors;
the revitalization of our passenger
rail system; the construction of a bus
rapid network; and the development
of an aerotropolis, the strategic, focal
points of our work”.
To further improve the provision
of integrated modal facilities,
the MEC announced that the
Department has partnered with
PRASA and various municipalities
to develop five such facilities at the
Germiston, Roodepoort, Vereeniging,
Leratong and Pienarspoort stations.
The facilities are to be linked to
PRASA’s rail corridor modernization
programme. The Roodepoort,
Vereeniging and Germiston station
precincts have been identified as core
stations to be upgraded. An amount
of R 813 million has been allocated
for the G-Fleet Management to
continue its impressive work of
turning around the entity. The TurnAround Strategy has stabilized the
organization’s operations whilst
putting it on its way to recovery to
attain its mandate of being a premier
fleet management organization, Vadi
said.
On The Move | 5
19youth
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Melitah Madiba
Department’s employees were encouraged to honour
the 1976 youth by serving with pride during the
department’s internal Youth Month celebrations.
6 | On The Move
The 1976 youth changed the course of history and as
young people living in a free and democratic South
Africa, you are the promise of what this nation will
become.
You need to think of what would
move or inspire you so that you
will be proud to say I am a proud
South African citizen. This was MEC
Ismail Vadi’s message to scores of
young people who converged at
the Diamond Building in Diagonal
Street to celebrate the department’s
internal Youth Month celebrations on
18 June.
The event was graced by amongst
others, Head of Department Ronald
Swartz, former student leader Mr.
Oupa Moloto, author Timothy
Maurice Webster, One Day Leader
winner Ndumiso Hadebe as well as
senior managers in the department.
Delivering the keynote address at
the event, MEC Vadi encouraged the
staff members to always serve with
pride. “Be a public servant that inspires
confidence, serve with pride. Change
the things that you have power to
change. The little changes count and
can accumulate impact that can be felt
by all and motivate the department to
move forward,” MEC said.
Moloto took the employees down
memory lane with his recount of
how they mobilized during the 1976
uprisings. “It was not easy; the struggle
came with a price and people paid with
their lives. Whatever you do, always
remember the heavy price that the
1976 youth paid for the liberation of
our country. Be responsible and always
strive to become a better person,”
Moloto appealed.
The youth not only received history
lessons, but were also motivated by
Khayalethu Dweba who encouraged
them to realise their dreams. He
advised that they need to avoid
working in silos and instead synergise
and combine their skills, power and
abilities. The staff also received
financial advice from FNB’s Consumer
Education as well as well as tax
compliance from South African
Revenue Services.
The wellness services were also at
the event and offered staff services
such as Body Mass Index (BMI)
calculations, Waist measurement,
Blood pressure, Cholesterol and
Blood sugar level tests and HIV
testing.
On The Move | 7
e
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o
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Gauteng ing transport
Chongq ion delegation
commiss
With the province's population growing rapidly, drastic
measures are needed to improve road infrastructure to
cope with the heavy burden expected in the future.
Melitah Madiba
The Gauteng Department of Roads
and Transport is currently working on
a transport plan that would ensure
that an integrated and intelligent
transport system is implemented.This
is according to Head of Department
Ronald Swartz, who addressed the
Chongqing Transport delegation in
Midrand in June.
Swartz said that the envisioned
transport strategy would also
give priority to job creation, skills
development as well as contractor
development. "Currently more than
33 percent of our road network
is heavily congested. Through the
Gauteng Integrated Transport Master
Plan (GTIMP 5), we aim to enhance
our international competitiveness,
optimise infrastructure, create
environmental awareness and
provide integrated operations."
"Our objective is to increase the
use of public transport. The key
challenge is to integrate various
transport solutions through a central,
coordinating and governance
structure. We have proposed for
the establishment of a Transport
Commission that will guide and
assist in dealing with this challenge,"
Swartz said. The Chinese delegation
was on a three-day visit in the
country and was officially welcomed
by MEC Ismail Vadi.
During their visit, they engaged
with some of the department’s
key stakeholders, Gauteng
Planning Commission and Metros
representatives from all the three
Metro Councils (Tshwane, Joburg
and Ekurhuleni), the South African
National Road Agency Limited's
(SANRAL), Gautrain Management
Agency, Passenger Rail Agency of
South Africa (PRASA) and Transnet.
Last year, Gauteng Premier Nomvula
Mokonyane led a high-powered
8 | On The Move
MEC Ismail Vadi and DDG Chen Xiaolai (seated) with roads
and transport departmental managers and the Chongqing
delegation during their visit to the province.
delegation comprising the MECs
of Economic Development, Qedani
Mahlangu and Transport MEC
Ismail Vadi of Transport, heads
of both departments as well as
Mayors of Gauteng’s three Metros
to the Chongqing Province in
the People’s Republic of China.
Premier Mokonyane’s visit was
part of efforts by the Gauteng
Provincial Government (GPG) to
establish strategic economic and
political partnerships with various
governments across the world with
a view of luring direct foreign
investment into the province.
The meetings culminated into the
signing of the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) that commits
the two provincial Governments to
forge bilateral economic relations.
This week’s visit by the Chinese is
a reciprocal visit emanating from
Premier Mokonyane’s visit where
a cooperative agreement between
the two provinces was signed with a
narrow focus on roads and transport
integration.
Chongqing Transport Commission
Deputy Director-General Chen Xiaolai
said that transport was a major and
crucial path for any country to grow
its economy. "There is an adage in
Chinese that says if you want to
develop the economy, you should
start with the transport system. In the
past, roads construction was a major
thing but now transport management
is also of crucial importance," Xiaolai
said. He also added that a transport
system which is affordable, safe and
convenient would also provide long
term benefits for the economy. "We
would like to engage South Africa on
the country's transport plans and look
forward to exchanging ideas on how
to best improve the transport system,"
he added.
Sudanese delegation
tours Gauteng’s transport
development projects
MEC for Roads and Transport Ismail Vadi successfully
hosted official delegates from the Embassy of the
Republic of Sudan and Governor of the Khartoum State
who visited the province in April.
Godfrey Phalatsi
MEC Ismail Vadi and Sudanese delegation hosted by
SANRAL’s CEO Nazir Alli at the Command Centre in
Midrand, Johannesburg.
The delegates were on a three-day
study tour of the inner-city and
transport development projects
in the province. During the visit,
various provincial departments
and agencies presented and shared
information on provincial urban
and spatial development plans.
They also presented the province’s
efforts aimed at fostering economic
participation and growth as well
as providing the necessary public
infrastructure to encourage
investments. Information shared
dealt with the plans and expertise
in maintaining the road network,
providing public infrastructure
such as schools and housing as well
as ways to formulate affordable,
efficient and safe integrated
transport systems. A tour to
experience the improved public
transport infrastructure was also
undertaken. This included a trip
on the Gautrain Rapid Rail System
from Sandton to Park Station where
Gautrain Management Agency
CEO Jack van der Merwe shared
information and his experiences in
planning, managing and operating
Africa’s only rapid rail system. He
also indicated how the train system
has been able to reduce travel time
between Tshwane and Johannesburg
as well as to the airport.
“Gautrain’s average week-day
passenger trips have increased from
twenty six (26) thousand in 2012 to
an impressive forty two (42) thousand
in March 2013,” van der Merwe said.
The delegation was also taken on the
Johannesburg’s renowned Rea Vaya
Bus Rapid Transit around the city for
them to see how the bus system is
being run and managed.
Furthermore, the delegation visited
the SANRAL Command Centre, in
Midrand to see how the agency,
using state-of-the-art monitoring
system, conduct surveillance of
major freeways, maintain the
world-class road network and the
efficient tolling system that is being
employed. Governor Dr Al-Khidir
expressed gratitude to the provincial
government for sharing invaluable
planning information with the team
from the Sudan. He also assured
the hosts that they have learnt and
acquired important information
into improving inner-city transport,
providing public infrastructure and
their hope of implementing these in
their own country.
On The Move | 9
Department receives
an award at
UITP World Congress
Godfrey Phalatsi
The Department of Roads and Transport received an award
at the 60th UITP World Congress and Mobility & City
Transport Exhibition held in Geneva,Switzerland
f Roads and
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The Gauteng ievements continues to
Transport’s ach partment adding another
soar with the deg an award at the 60th
cap by receivin ongress and Mobility &
UITP World C Exhibition held last month
City Transport zerland last month.
in Geneva, Swit
The presentation titled, 25-Year
Integrated Transport Master Plan: A
Smart Project for a Smart Province
was delivered at the Congress. MEC
Ismail Vadi said that the Department
was acknowledged for successfully
hosting the UATP Bus Rapid Transit
– Africa Conference last year and for
its work in developing the 25-Year
Integrated Transport Master Plan.
“It was an absolute honour for me
to receive an award on behalf of
our Department at the congress,”
he said. More than 2000 participants
representing transport policy
makers, city officials, experts in
public transport and private sector
representatives participated in the
Congress. MEC Vadi added that
10 | On The Move
long term transport planning was a
particular focus of the Congress.
He added that Canada has developed
a “Transit Vision 2040 Plan”; Malaysia
has a “Greater Kuala Lumpur Land
Public Transport Master Plan”; and
California has a “2025 Transportation
Plan. He further elaborated that
the overall emphasis is on transport
integration and many more
cities, both in the developed and
developing world, are opting for bus
rapid transit systems.
A particular highlight of the Congress
was the keynote address by the
UN-Habitat Executive Director, Dr.
Joan Clos. His speech followed
the opening address from Mrs
Doris Leuthard, Swiss Minister for
Environment, Transport, Energy and
Communications and the welcome
speech by Mr Alain Flausch, Secretary
General of International Association
of Public Transport (UITP). Speaking
of urbanisation as the "source" or
"engine" of social and economic
development and the need for a new
urban paradigm, Dr. Clos emphasised
the importance for planning in
advance of migration and growth.
He argued that increasingly, the
world’s population is settling in urban
areas. He stressed that this required
spatial planning and densification
along key transport routes; adequate
provision of public spaces, streets and
roads; new funding sources for public
transport and timely planning. Dr.
Clos also pointed at the opportunities
that cities can explore for innovative
financing for public transport
investments such as land-value
sharing.
Cities will serve as the powerhouses
of the economy as they produce 80
percent of the world economic output.
This calls for better co-ordination of
land-use and transport, adequate
investments in transport infrastructure
and services and greater creativity and
innovation in finding solutions.
Continuous effort to
Improve CIDB Grading
of contractors
In keeping with the objectives of maintaining a
world-class, efficient, safe and accessible provincial
road network, the Department of Roads and Transport
continues to assist and develop small and emerging
contractors to gain the requisite skills.
Koena Moabelo
The department does this through
training and continuous upgrading
of the Construction Industry
Development Board (CIDB) levels
in order to develop and sustain the
construction industry in the province.
This will be carried out through
internal road construction and
maintenance programmes.
The Department has assisted a number of small contractors
improve their skills and grading. During the 2010/ 11 financial
year, 69 small, medium and micro-sized contractors were given
road maintenance work for the period of 24 months.
The assistance will also ensure that
job creation efforts are sustainable.
In the financial year 2010/11, 69
small, medium and micro-sized
contractors were given road
maintenance work for the period
of 24 months. These were spread
throughout the five regions of the
Department, namely Krugersdorp,
Benoni, Bronkhorstspruit, Tshwane
and Vereeniging. Of the 69
contractors, 43 were women-owned.
This assisted with the acceleration
of sustainable transformation
through access to opportunities,
finance and training. Close to 70%
of the 69 contractors had their levels
upgraded, meaning they could be
entrusted with bigger projects in
the future based on the experience
acquired over the period.
for money is achieved. Skills such as
right site management, adequate
information and competitive
tendering systems are continually
shared. This process has also enabled
contractors to improve their CIDB
grades. The success achieved thus
far has encouraged the department
to continue spending on providing
basic public physical infrastructure,
its maintenance, ensure absorption
of labour thus providing job
opportunities.
The training, as an important
intervention, will also guarantee
that contractors deliver good quality
work. The successful completion
of projects necessitated that the
department continues to facilitate
progress meetings to ensure value
With the provision of Non-Motorised
Transport (NMT) infrastructure
remaining a priority for the
department in the current financial
year, the development of this
infrastructure will present small
and emerging contractors with
opportunities to grow even further.
This entails erecting walkways and
cycle lanes in communities to improve
the use of non-motorized modes of
transport.
The infrastructure was developed
in parts of the province including
Mamelodi- 7 kilometres (City
of Tshwane), 8km in Sebokeng
(Sedibeng District Municipality)
and 5km in Katlehong (City of
Ekurhuleni) where walkways were
completed. These projects saw seven
small companies’ main contractors
sub-contracting to six local businesses
leading to creation of approximately
200 job opportunities in the various
municipalities. Youth, women and
people with disabilities benefited
from these job opportunities.
On The Move | 11
Intermodal
facilities to
improve
accessibility,
safety
Sipho Tshabalala
The Gauteng Department
of Roads and Transport
has partnered with various
municipalities and Metrorail,
through the Passenger Rail
Agency of South Africa
(PRASA), to develop public
transport intermodal facilities
in the province.
Ribbon cutting…. MEC Vadi, Councilor Maureen
Schneeman and leaders of taxi associations at
the opening of Zandspruit Intermodal Facility, in
Johannesburg.
An intermodal public transport
facility is an all-weather facility that
is accessible, accommodative, safe
and promotes the integration of
public transport, both motorized
and non-motorized. The facilities
also contribute to economic activity
through generating entrepreneurial
and employment opportunities.
The co-operation of the various
public institutions in undertaking
such projects form part of
government’s priority of elevating
and ensuring that rail services
become the backbone of public
transportation in the country. The
provincial department of transport
recently developed and opened two
intermodal facilities in Bophelong in
Sedibeng District Municipality and
12 | On The Move
Zandspruit, Johannesburg that caters
for buses and taxis.
The rail agency has committed a total
investment of R13 billion as part of
capital programme for the province
of Gauteng in the next three years.
This includes the redevelopment
of Mabopane in Tshwane and
Johannesburg’s Park Station, as well
as the modernization of close to fifty
stations on core corridors.
Development of five integrated
modal facilities at the Germiston,
Roodepoort, Vereeniging, Leratong
and Pienarspoort stations have been
planned with engineering studies
and concept designs having been
completed. These infrastructural
developments will have facilities
such as park and rides, kiss and
ride, waiting areas as well as nonmotorized transport walk-ways and
cycle lanes.
The Roodepoort, Vereeniging and
Germiston station precincts have
also been identified as core stations
needing an upgrade. The facilities
are to be linked to PRASA’s rail
corridor modernization programme.
Over and above that, PRASA has
also undertaken an expansion
project valued at over R400 million
in Mamelodi, Tshwane entailing
the doubling of tracks from EersteFabrieke Station, rebuilding two
stations at Pienaarspoort and
Mamelodi as well as building
a new station at Greenview, in
order to improve rail capacity and
accessibility.
Turn-around plan
set to root out fraud and corruption at testing centres
Sipho Tshabalala
Communities are set to benefit from the Drivers Licenses and
Testing Centres (DLTCs) and Vehicle Testing Centre (VTSs) that the
department is currently rolling out in the province
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Licenses ands) in the province, the Gess of implementing the
Centre (VTSransport's (DRT) proc an advanced stage.
Roads and TTurn-Around Plan is at
DLTC
The Turn-Around Plan has also
necessitated the drawing up of a
Provincial Service Charter that will
guide, streamline and standardise
service provision in all these centres.
A Working Group, consisting of
officials from national and provincial
governments, has been established
with the aim of reducing fraud and
corruption at vehicle testing stations
and strengthening the regulatory
framework over private VTSs.
The plan which is aimed at restoring
integrity of services rendered,
includes vetting present and
potential employees as a prerequisite
for working at the centres. The
vetting process will ensure that all
officials, examiners included, are
subjected to investigations prior to
being employed to ensure that they
can be trusted and are suitable for
the job.
MEC Ismail Vadi said that with access
to the centers identified as one of
the contributing factors to fraud and
corruption, the department plans
to open more centres in an effort to
bring services closer to the people.
“The opening of the Kliptown
Registering Authority in Soweto
is one such example and plans are
afoot for the establishment of new
centres in Tsakane in Ekurhuleni,
Kagiso in Mogale City as well as in
Mamelodi, Pretoria.”
“Furthermore, to discourage
inappropriate and corrupt practices
at the centres, the plan introduces
the uniform policy for officials to be
easily identifiable. This will ensure
that all employees are wearing
identical clothing bearing their
names for identification,” Vadi said.
The introduction of the electronic
testing systems for learner’s testing
is also set to play a major role in
ensuring that corruption is prevented
at an early stage.
This system, MEC Vadi added, will
reduce human interference in the
process of testing applicants and
ensure that the correct individual
has sat for examination. Service
level agreements with various
municipalities will also be rigorously
enforced to ensure that the provision
of the charter is adhered to and
efforts are made with a view of
improving services.
communication between the
department and law enforcement
agencies to play a role in intelligence
gathering. With intelligence
gathering process , the department
believes it will assist in dealing with
those responsible for illegal issuing
of licenses and certificates as well as
preventing other unlawful practices.
“In implementing the strategy
to transform the way services
are provided, the department
has identified that the increased
demand for services cannot only be
mitigated by the increase in human
resources. But upgrading systems
infrastructure, processes (size of test
yards, layouts) as well as the ability
to accommodate examinations and
tests would assist,” said Vadi. MEC
Vadi added that together with the
provincial Department of Community
Safety, they have intensified efforts
to combat the issuing of fraudulent
roadworthy certificates, particularly
to minibus taxis, by selected,
privately-run Vehicle Testing Stations
in the province. A sting undertaken
resulted in the arrest and prosecution
of twenty five examiners employed at
these stations since November 2012.
The plan also calls for improved
On The Move | 13
M
EC
Vadi
Unveils the Restored SA Flag
on Albertina Sisulu Freeway
Melitah Madiba
The refurbished SA flag which was
initially created as a showpiece for
the 2010 FIFA World Cup, was done in
partnership with Citizens in Partnership
with Government (CPG) and SANRAL.
The CPG aims to provide a platform for
government to interface with citizens
around common projects, activities and
programmes for the greater good of the
country.
The painted flag now lies as a national
landmark and is distinctively visible
as flights take-off and land at the OR
Tambo International Airport. Speaking
at the unveiling of the flag, Gauteng
MEC for Roads and Transport Ismail Vadi
said that the Albertina Sisulu freeway
was more than a strategic part of the
province’s road network that links the
airport with the metropolitan cities of
Ekurhuleni, Tshwane and Johannesburg.
Vadi said that the freeway also provided
visitors to the country with their first
impressions. The flag restoration project
formed part of Gauteng government’s
programme to distribute the national
flag and national orders to all schools,
libraries and other public buildings.
“Our flag represents the pride, hope
and aspirations of all the people of our
country. It is a symbol of the sacrifices
made by so many men and women to
make our non-racial and non-sexist
democracy possible,” added Vadi. CPG’s
Bheki Shongwe said that there was a
need for citizens and the private sector
to form partnerships with government
and to find common synergies.
“There is no point in citizens
complaining about what government
is not doing but a more active citizenry
would complement the efforts of
government. CPG was established to
provide a platform for government and
the private sector and citizens at large
to interact and find common areas of
cooperation,” said Shongwe. Vadi said
that the Albertina Sisulu freeway must
serve as a reminder to the youth that the
struggle for freedom was led by people
with real depth of character, personality
and great sense of humanity.
14 | On The Move
MEC Vadi together with members of
Citizens in Partnership with Government at
the opening of the revamped SA flag at the
R24 Albertina Sisulu Highway
The recent unveiling of the refurbished
South African flag on the Albertina Sisulu
freeway, formerly known as the R24, was a
good illustration of what can be achieved
when government and citizens work together.
Spruced up- the revamped SA flag
along the Albertina Sisulu Highway
e
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Sipho
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Tshab
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MEC Ismail Vadi accompanied by MMC Matjila
and councillors in the Tshwane City, takes a walk
at the recently improved Sekweri Road
As part of Gauteng Provincial Government’s 20
Prioritised Township Programme (20PTP), the provincial
Department of Roads and Transport spent R8,5 million
upgrading the streets in Refilwe, Cullinan in Tshwane.
The Sekweri Street Road
improvement project entailed the
surfacing of 2.1 kilometers of gravel
road; construction of storm water
infrastructure and the installation
of road signs and road markings.
Refilwe Township, near the old
mining town of Cullinan, is one of
the least developed 20 townships
earmarked by the provincial
government for development and
improvement.
The road upgrade has provided an
important link for Refilwe residents
to the town of Cullinan. Speaking
at the handing-over event, MEC
Ismail Vadi said that the upgrading
of a little stretch of road known as
Sekweri Street has done much to
change the lives of the residents of
Refilwe. The multimillion labourintensive project formed part of the
Extended Public Works Programme
(EPWP) of the Department of
Roads and Transport with over 60
beneficiaries.
This included those who were trained
in basic road construction techniques
and later employed whilst two (2)
local sub-contractors were roped
in to participate in the completion
of the project. The EPWP seeks to
deliver public infrastructure using
labour intensive methods while
providing the unemployed; people
with disabilities; and women and
youth with training and work
opportunities.
It also promotes skills development
and empowers local BEE contractors
through creating work opportunities
for them on local projects. With the
recent upgrade, Refilwe motorists
and residents no longer have to make
use of unsafe, dusty and gravel roads
to get out of the township for their
everyday business. They can now use
good quality tarred roads.
On The Move | 15
N14
Ben Schoeman
Highway sinkhole
rehabilitated
Godfrey Phalatsi
The Gauteng Department
of Roads and Transport in
collaboration with the South
African National Roads Agency
(SANRAL) undertook R115m
repair works and rehabilitation
on the sinkhole that developed
along the median of N14 Ben
Schoeman Highway.
Department undertook extensive work on the sinkhole on
the N14 Ben Schoeman Highway.
The sinkhole developed as a result
of a leak in a water pipe crossing the
N14 Ben Schoeman freeway south
of Jean Avenue, Centurion, in the
median between the northbound
and southbound carriageways.
After preliminary geological tests
were conducted on the site, a
decision was made to close off two
of the southbound lanes and one
northbound lane as a precautionary
measure, as the sinkhole was located
closer to the inner edges of the road.
MEC Ishmail Vadi accompanied by
the Chairperson of the Portfolio
Committee and Roads and Transport
Ms Thuliswa Nkabinde
MEC Ismail Vadi inspecting the Ben
Schoeman Highway sinkhole where
extensive repair work was done to
rehabilitate the sinkhole area.
16 | On The Move
The results also indicated that
extensive repair work was required
to rehabilitate the sinkhole area, fill
the underground cavities under the
road (the lanes that have been closed
off) and reconstruct the section of
the freeway affected by the sinkhole.
Explaining the problem, Deputy
Director for Roads Maintenance
Victor Phala said the formation of
sinkholes may involve the natural
process of erosion of soluble bedrock
(such as limestone) by percolating
water, the collapse of a cave roof, or
a lowering of the water table.
Addressing the media after
inspection and opening of the road,
MEC Ismail Vadi said that the surface
of the sinkhole was about six metres,
but underneath was almost up to 90
metres. “If that entire area had sunk
in, we would have had a disaster on
our major highway, so we are very
pleased that the project to fix the
sinkhole has been fully [completed]
and we are once again pleased that
the traffic is now moving smoothly
since we’ve also improved and
widened the road,” Vadi said.
Gautrain continues to
provide excellent
service to commuters
Hailed as one of the best
public transport system by
the Chinese delegation that
visited the province recently,
Gautrain continues to
provide world-class service
to Gauteng residents.
Staff Reporter
Gautrain passenger numbers have
doubled since the system was
introduced in 2010
Gautrain is considered as one of
government's most strategic projects
that assist in accelerating economic
growth with an emphasis on service
delivery, job creation and
promoting tourism in the province.
Boasting over 11million passengers
using the train and 3.5 million
passengers using the Gautrain buses
since March 2012, more than 35 900
local direct jobs and total of 125 700
indirect have been created up the
end of January 2013.
Of these, 4 020 jobs were created
for women and 240 jobs were for
people with Disabilities with more
than 50 percent of jobs created going
to youth. Presenting his Budget Vote
speech, MEC Ismail Vadi said that the
Gautrain has become a yardstick of
public transport in the province.
“The success we are seeing today
started as an idea in 1997. The main
objective of the project was to
alleviate the traffic congestion on
existing roads between Johannesburg
and Tshwane.” “Over and above the
successful construction, operation
and maintenance of the Gautrain
Project, its other achievements
include the R5.6 billion spent
on procurement from, and subcontracting to black entities, with
more than 400 entities having
benefited from the project to date,”
Vadi said.
The interventions include the
optimisation of existing parking
payouts and the provision of
dedicated parking bays for motor
cycles. “As part of improving service
delivery, an additional 103 parking
bays were added to Rhodesfield
station and plans for construction
of another 156 parking bays at
Rhodesfield have been developed in
maintaining a quality experience for
commuters,” MEC said.
On average daily bus trips have
doubled from 9 000 per day in April
2012 to 18 000 a day in March of
2013, with a total annual passenger
trips of 3.5 million. This increase in
ridership on the train and bus services
has led to Gautrain Management
Agency (GMA) having to undertake
short-term interventions in increasing
parking availability and to improve
traffic flow and access to and
from stations such as Pretoria and
Centurion.
MEC Vadi also added that the
integration of the Gautrain system
with other public transport services
remains one of the primary objectives
of the GMA. “Currently, the GMA
is involved in the planning of the
Bus Rapid Transport system being
constructed by the City of Tshwane.
A BRT station has already been
completed opposite the Hatfield
Station and will form part of the
proposed route to the Pretoria CBD,”
he added.
On The Move | 17
Department discusses
sustainability of
mini-bus taxi sector
Sipho Tshabalala
The latest research by the Gauteng
City-Region Observatory indicated
that close to 42% of commuters rely
on mini-bus taxis for travelling either
to work, to school and to other social,
sporting or recreational activities.
18 | On The Move
The taxi industry is central to an
integrated public transport system in
our province and we have a collective
responsibility to ensure that it is better
managed, properly regulated and
economically viable
It is against this background
that the Gauteng Department of
Roads and Transport convened a
Taxi Summit aimed at improving
relations and engaging the provincial
taxi leadership, at Muldersdrift,
Krugersdorp in May. The summit was
attended by leadership from both
the Gauteng Taxi Council (GATACO)
and Gauteng National Taxi Alliance
(GNTA).
The meeting also afforded the
department and taxi leadership a
platform to discuss a partnership that
would provide sustainable business
model for the long-term growth
and success of the industry. Other
matters discussed included limitations
imposed by the current structure;
unity and commercialization as well
as ways to best explore and take
advantage of available opportunities.
Addressing the summit, MEC Ismail
Vadi called for unity in the industry
saying that an “organizationally
divided, conflict-ridden and fractured
taxi sector” is not sustainable over
time. He noted that there were
185 registered taxi associations in
Gauteng, making it difficult to get
coherence and a common voice.
MEC Vadi added that mini-bus
taxis were an essential component
of the public transport system in
the Gauteng city-region. “The taxi
industry is central to an integrated
public transport system in our
province and we have a collective
responsibility to ensure that it is
better managed, properly regulated
and economically viable,” he said.
The summit afforded the taxi
provincial leadership to take stock of
the current state of the industry and
identify the limitations holding back
the industry with the assistance of
the provincial authority.
On The Move | 19
Tips on how to manage
your finances
Personal financial management is a
subject that is not taught in many
schools, but is something that nearly
everyone has to deal with in their
lives later on. For one month, keep
track of all your expenses. You don't
have to limit yourself; just get an
idea of what you spend money on
during any given month.
Save all your receipts, make note of
how much cash you need versus how
much you expense to credit cards,
and figure out how much money you
have left over when the calendar
turns. After the first month, take
stock of what you spent. Don't write
down what you wished you had
spent; write down what you actually
spent. Categorize your purchases in a
way that makes sense to you.
Based on the month of actual
expenses — and your own knowledge
of your spending history — budget
out how much of your income you
want to allocate to each category
20 | On The Move
every month. In your budget, make
separate columns for projected
budget and actual budget. Your
projected budget is how much you
intend to spend on a category; this
should stay the same from month
to month and be calculated at the
beginning of the month. Your actual
budget is how much you end up
spending; it fluctuates from month to
month and is calculated at the end of
the month.
Many people leave significant room
in their budget for savings. You
don't have to structure your budget
to include savings, but it's generally
thought of as a smart idea.
Professional financial planners advise
their clients to set aside at least 10%
to 15% of their total earnings for
savings. Keep track of your budget
over time. The hard part of a budget
is that your expenses may change
from month to month. The great part
of a budget is that you'll have kept
track of those changes, giving you an
accurate idea of where your money
went during the year.
Setting a budget will open your eyes
to how much money you spend, if
they haven't been opened already.
Many people, after setting a budget,
realize that they spend money on
pretty petty things. This knowledge
allows them to adjust their spending
habits and put the money towards
more meaningful areas. Plan for
the unexpected. Setting a budget
will also teach you that you never
know when you'll have to pay for
something unexpected — but that
the unexpected will come to be
expected. You obviously don't plan
on your car breaking down, or your
child needing medical attention, but
it pays to expect these contingencies
to happen, and to be prepared for
them financially when they come.
Source: http://www.wikihow.com/
Manage-Your-Finances
Social Scene
MEC Vadi shaking hands with Mr Barend la Grange during the
unveiling of the revamped SA flag at Albertina Sizulu (R24 highway)
Chief Executive Officer for Gautrain, Mr Jack Van Der Merve
taking a ride with Chongqing delegates from Sandton Station
to Park Station in Johannesburg
Deputy Minister of Justice and constitutional
development, Mr Andries Nel with head of
communication Mrs. Octavia Mamabolo during
Cayman Road Opening
MEC Ismail Vadi exchanging gifts with Chongqing
delegates during their visit to the province.
MEC Ismail Vadi interacting with community members during the opening of Kliptown DLTC in Soweto.
On The Move | 21
Social Scene
Khartoum State Governor Dr.Abdul Rahman Al-Khidir hands
over a gift to MEC Vadi at Emoyeni Conference Centre
MEC Vadi and the Sudanese delegation
Mr Chikane Chikane, the CEO of gFleet accompanied by DRT
officials
Lokologang Mbanga on 16 June celebration celebration as a host
One day leader winner Ndumiso Hadebe motivating the
youth during celebration
MEC Vadi receiving a gift from the Chinese delegation
22 | On The Move
Departmental sports
teams ready for
the prestigious 2013
National Tournament
The Chairperson of the Departmental Sports
Committee Samuel Komane is a man of many talents.
Godfrey Phalatsi
The Internal Departmental football and netball league fixture are as follows:
05/07/2013
Benoni
Krugersdorp
Vereeniging
Bronkhorstspruit
Head Office/G-Fleet
Zwartkop/Derdepoort
Koedoespoort
Heidelberg
19/07/2013
Head Office/G-Fleet
Bronkhorstspruit
Heidelberg
Koedoespoort
Vereeniging
Krugersdorp
Zwartkop/Derdepoort
Benoni
02/08/2013
Head Office/G-Fleet
Vereeniging
Zwartkop/Derdepoort
Heidelberg
Koedoespoort
Benoni
Bronkhorstspruit
Krugersdorp
Departmental sports committee chairman Samuel
Komane (navy jersey) and committee members displaying
trophies won at the 2012 National Tournament.
If not keeping a close eye on
departmental security matters,
he is making sure that the
department’s employees keep fit
and perform at their optimum
levels through the department’s
sport teams. The well-trimmed
Komane told On the Move that
his role in the committee was to
provide an interface between the
clubs and sports administrators,
coordinate all activities and most
importantly provide leadership to
the committee and the clubs.
Komane indicated that the
Gauteng Provincial Leagues were
in full swing and that they will be
using these games to gauge their
fitness levels and readiness for the
2013 National Tournament later in
the year. “The departmental sports
teams are doing very well and
players are committed and have
set their sights on the coveted
2013 National Tournament to be
held in Mmabatho, North West in
September.
“Last year the football team
claimed the second spot out of
twenty one teams from nine
provinces. The focus for this year
is on our ladies netball team to
ensure that they start winning
trophies,” Komane said. Komane
who was voted the Best Player
of the Tournament during the
national tournament in 2008,
added that the matches are played
on Fridays and assist with their
preparations for the national
tournament.
On The Move | 23
Cross Word Puzzle
NB: Two numbers in one box mean:
• The top number means down; and
• Bottom number means across
Across
1. Abbreviation for Member of
Executive Council (3)
2. Opposite of fake (4)
3. Abbreviation of October Transport
Month (3)
4. 27 minus 19 is equals to…..: in words
(5)
5. Phonetic spelling of lul (3)
6. Synonym of attempt (3)
7. Unit of pressure of one million dynes
per square centimeter (3)
8. Abbreviation of Gauteng Provincial
Government (3)
9. Antonym of small (4)
10. Abbreviation of South Africa (2)
Down
1. Abbreviation of 5-Year Gauteng
Transport Implementation Plan (5)
2. MEC for Gauteng Roads and
Transport, Dr Ismail …….(4)
3. The name of Tshwane Bus Rapid
Transport (7)
4. Shova ……(6)
5. Head of Gauteng Department of
Roads and Transport, ……. Swartz.
(6)
6. The name of Deputy Minister of
National Transport Department,
……….. Chikunga (8)
7. The upgraded Mdlalose Road
Soweto is based in which township?
(6)
8. Abbreviation for Drivers Learners
and Testing Center (4)
9. Position of Nomvula Mokonyane
in Gauteng Provincial Government
(7)
10. Abbreviation of Deputy Director
General (3)
11. Synonym of brunette (3)
12. A classy train that carries 11
million passengers in Gauteng (8)
13. Abbreviation for a document
that testifies agreement between
institutions (3)
14. ……. Basic Education and
Training (5)
15. A Machine used for the
withdrawal of money:Abbreviation
(3)
16. Not on (3)
17. Abbreviation of Kilometer (2)
18. Opposite of from (2)
Developed by Koena Moabelo
24 | On The Move
1.
8.
10.
21.
9.
14.
2.
6.
18.
3.
4.
12.
5.
11.
17.
16.
2.
16.
7.
14.
10.
15.
12. A person regarded as obnoxious
(4)
13. A purpose (3)
14. A person or thing regarded as a
representative symbol of something
(4)
15. Scot word for devil (4)
16. The …… and arrow is a projectile
weapon system used for hunting in
olden days (3)
17. A long piece of cloth worn around
the neck (3)
18. To get into one's possession by
force (4)
19. To request (3)
20. Everything (3)
21. A brief sudden emission of air (4)
13.
12.
19.
7.
6.
15.
17.
3.
1.
9.
13.
8.
5.
4.
20.