digital transformation public services

South Africa’s Vision for Digital Transformation: Home Affairs @ Home

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South Africa’s Home Affairs @ Home initiative is a bold plan to make public services easier by going digital. Led by Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber, this fiveyear project will let people apply for important documents like IDs and passports from their homes, without needing to visit offices. This change aims to save time, reduce crowds, and improve security using advanced technology like biometrics. By partnering with local banks and retailers, the government hopes to ensure that everyone with internet access can enjoy these modern services, making life simpler for all South Africans and visitors.

customer service public services

An Initiative to Enhance Public Services: ‘Have Your Say’

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The ‘Have Your Say’ initiative in Cape Town is a physical survey method implemented in 35 city facilities to capture residents’ firsthand experiences regarding the city’s service delivery. This traditional approach ensures inclusivity for residents who have restricted access to digital devices, and suggestions are methodically recorded and addressed for continuous enhancement of services and facilities. The initiative exemplifies the city’s commitment to ameliorating public services in tune with the needs and aspirations of its citizens. The ‘Have Your Say’ feedback boxes are conveniently located in a variety of venues to ensure accessibility for all residents.

crime public services

The Silent Crisis Unfolding in Cape Town’s Essential Services

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In Cape Town, the Water and Sanitation Directorate is facing a crisis as workers responsible for providing clean water and sanitation solutions are being threatened by criminal activity. In the preceding fiscal year, there were 22 hijackings and 52 robberies reported, causing a financial burden of R8.5 million in private security escorts to ensure personnel safety and continuity of services. The Mayor has launched an AntiExtortion Campaign, and Councilor Zahid Badroodien is calling for community cooperation to guarantee safer working conditions for essential workers, emphasizing the need for collective action to protect public service providers.

corruption south africa

Corruption in South Africa: The Gauteng MEC’s Fight Against Corruption

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South Africa ranks 69th out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s 2021 Corruption Perceptions Index. Corruption in government institutions is a pervasive problem that undermines public trust and diverts resources from important public services. The Gauteng MEC’s celebration of the arrest of a corrupt official is a small but significant step towards combating corruption in the country.