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More often than not when organisations enter into a relationship with an Enterprise Development or Supplier Development Beneficiary, it wants a guarantee that their investment will be successful. Hence, many choose to incorporate accountability clauses to secure their investment. However, Clause 4.12 in Statement 400  of the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice states:   "4.12 Measured Entities are encouraged to develop and implement an Enterprise Development plan and Supplier Development plan for Qualifying Beneficiaries. The plan should include:   4.12.1 Clear Objectives; 4.12.2 Priority Interventions; 4.12.3 Key Performance indicators; and 4.12.4 A concise implementation plan with clearly articulated milestones".   Placing accountability conditions on Beneficiaries may be punitive without taking into account all factors in clause 4.12.   Enterprise & Supplier Development Services   are on hand to guide organisations before entering into a contractual agreement with a Beneficiary, as Sector Codes may have differing requirements.

Q | Can a B-BBEE Sworn Affidavit be commissioned by a Commissioner of Oaths connected to the deponent that is an EME or QSE with more than 51% ‘Black’ Ownership? For example, ABC Traders’ Financial Director is a Commissioner of Oaths; can that person commission its affidavit? A | Commissioner of Oaths must be independent as per the Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oath Act. Therefore, ABC Traders may not have its Financial Director commission their Sworn Affidavit. B-BBEE Verification Services are available to assist members to ensure that they understand the requirements for Valid Sworn Affidavits.

Staff Writer | 5 February 2023 While South African banks continue to source individuals with financial expertise, skills in information technology (IT), digital technology, and emerging risk advisory, among others, are in high demand in 2023 due to strong digital uptake. According to Nedbank CEO Mike Brown, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the adoption of the digital economy accelerated rapidly. In 2022, Nedbank saw a 50% increase in new digital sales, while app transaction volumes increased 239% from pre-Covid 2019. Additionally, Brown noted that Money app active users increased by 157%, and app transaction values increased by 273%. FNB added that, as of January 2023, contactless payments for credit and fusion account for more than 60% of all transactions, while physical card swipes account for less than 1%. Head of Spend and Customer Value Management at FNB Card, Ashley Saffy, said that consumer preference towards digital banking and smart devices is due to convenience and a higher level of security. “Contactless is a faster payment method, and it uses near-field communication (NFC) technology, which is less vulnerable to fraud than traditional’ contact’ driven payment methods,” said Saffy. As a result of the growing digital economy, Nedbank group executive of human resources, Deborah Fuller, told BusinessTech that ongoing regulatory change and changing customer needs increasingly drives the demand for critical new capabilities and skills. In 2023, FNB, Nedbank, Capitec, and Absa said they are actively looking for the following: Multi-Stack engineers; System developers and analysts; Data Scientists; UI and UX Designers; Software Test Analysts; Quantitative Analysts; Actuaries; and Cyber Risk Specialists Fuller added that it would be advantageous to job seekers to have experience in critical skills regarding the abovementioned positions, which include: Digital and emerging technology; Data and analytics; Multi–stack development skills – such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), cloud, Machine Learning (ML), and blockchain; User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) skills; Actuarial and predictive analytics skills; and Emerging risk advisory skills – such as cyber risk, climate risk and open banking risk, amongst others. However, despite digital innovations, banks are still financial service providers requiring finance expertise and skills relevant to their branch and corporate real estate operations. “We are continuously looking for energetic client-driven individuals to support our branch and service support centres,” said Capitec. Therefore, banks are also actively looking for the following: Chartered Accounts (CA) Bankers Credit Managers Customer Service Consultants Investment bankers Branch and relationship managers With these skills and qualifications in demand, FNB human capital executive, Donald Khumalo, noted that, although newly hired personnel varies year-on-year, FNB had hired 2,000 new permanent employees in 2022. Fuller added that Nedbank had hired 1,000 new employees, and an Absa spokesperson revealed the group hired an estimated 8,000 new personnel in 2022 – including contract and contingent employees. Capitec also noted a recruitment average of around 1,629 new personnel per annum. Adding to the growing recruitment numbers, All three banks added that they are talent retentive and focus on growing the job opportunities of existing employees. “There is a significant investment in reskilling and upskilling the existing workforce with critical skills needed to provide career growth opportunities, Minimize job losses and build a flowing pipeline of talent in the long term,” said Fuller. In 2023, she added that Nedbank is also focused on the Youth Employment Service (YES) to contribute to curbing the high youth unemployment rate by mentoring and nurturing young talent and allowing them to obtain valuable work experience. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://businesstech.co.za/news/banking/659861/fnb-nedbank-capitec-and-absa-are-looking-for-these-skills-in-2023/

Sabrina Jardim | 16 October 2024 The African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Guarantee Fund (AGF) and the Banking Association South Africa launched the Affirmative Action for Women in Africa (Afawa) Finance Series during a conference, in Johannesburg, on October 15.  The three-day Afawa Finance Series aims to promote an inclusive financial ecosystem and presents financial mechanisms to unlock substantial financing for women-owned and women-led businesses, thus creating a pathway towards sustainable and long-term growth of women-led and women-owned small, medium-sized and microenterprises (SMME) in South Africa . The Afawa Finance Series supports Afawa’s goal to unlock $5-billion by 2026 to support 30 000 women-led and women-owned SMMEs, which are critical drivers of economic growth, job creation and social development across Africa . Through Afawa, the AfDB has so far approved $1.8-billion and disbursed $1-billion to the benefit of more than 18 000 women entrepreneurs, channelled through 172 financial institutions in 43 African countries. Through the Afawa Guarantee for Growth (G4G) programme, implemented by AGF, the Afawa initiative aims to offer guarantees and technical assistance to financial institutions, helping them adopt gender-sensitive practices and enhancing their capacity to meet the unique needs of women entrepreneurs. Speaking at the launch, AfDB director-general for Southern Africa Leila Mokaddem noted that, in South Africa , female-owned SMMEs represented 50% of all businesses employing over 55% of the workforce and contributed significantly to the country’s GDP. She pointed out, however, that nearly half of these businesses remained financially excluded, with a financing gap of about R100-billion. She added that challenges, such as insufficient collateral, limited credit information and cultural factors, hindered the potential of women entrepreneurs, positing that financial institutions often struggled to meet the unique needs of this segment, resulting in inadequate solutions . “These challenges are not just statistics, they are dreams deferred.” To help bridge the gender financing gap, Mokaddem noted that the AfDB had partnered with financial services provider Absa Group in South Africa to implement gender-focused financial solutions . The collaboration includes a financial package totalling R2.71-billion. This includes a social bond listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange that aims to provide affordable home loans for 3 600 female-led households. The financial package also includes a sustainability-linked loan designed for SMMEs, women- and youth-owned enterprises, targeting 6 000 entrepreneurs in the next four years. Mokaddem explained that this was further supported by technical assistance aimed at delivering advisory services and business development support, strengthening access capacity to provide tailored financial solutions for underserved youth- and women-owned SMMEs. CONFERENCE FOCUSThe initiative will involve a series of conferences, training programmes and engagement activities to equip financial institutions with the knowledge and tools to better serve women entrepreneurs. The conference will focus on three critical outcomes to accelerate financial inclusion for women in Africa . This includes introducing the Afawa G4G programme to South Africa as a global initiative that encourages the private sector to invest in women’s empowerment. By derisking lenders’ portfolios through guarantees, the programme showcases how financial institutions can increase their capacity to meet the financial and non- financial needs of women-led SMMEs. The conference also focusses on equipping financial institutions with gender-smart practices, providing participants with a deeper understanding of what it means to be a gender-sensitive financial institution. Through specialised training sessions, the conference will provide actionable steps on how banks and financial institutions can create inclusive business models that address the needs of women entrepreneurs in a profitable and sustainable way. The conference also focusses on offering an in-depth exploration of the opportunities available to women SMMEs in accessing finance. Participants will discuss best practices and case studies to enhance the bankability of women-led businesses, empowering them to expand and grow in a competitive global market. The Afawa Finance Series will engage both the financial industry and the public sector to increase capital access for women entrepreneurs, allowing them to contribute fully to Africa ’s economic growth and prosperity. “If we ensure that women have equal access to finance, we are unlocking potential for millions of jobs, fostering more inclusive, resilient economies . . . the banking sector has a vital role to play in creating a more inclusive financial system . “We have the capacities, the resources and the obligation to ensure that women entrepreneurs are not left behind,” said Basa chairperson and FirstRand Bank CEO Mary Vilakazi. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/new-finance-series-launched-to-assist-female-led-smmes-2024-10-16

Total Measured Procurement Spend (TMPS) forms the basis of the calculation measuring an organisation's Preferential Procurement spend. The formula is (A – B = TMPS) broken down as (Not Limited to): A ) Cost of sales- adjusted for opening and closing stock; Operating expenses; Other expenses; and Capital Expenditure B ) Salaries, wages, remunerations and emoluments; Empowerment-related procurement; Supplier-specific exclusions: Taxes and levies; Imports, providing they meet the criteria; Organ of state / public entity that enjoys a statutory/regulated monopoly in the supply of such goods or services; Pass through third-party procurement; Accounting-related exclusions: Depreciation and amortisation; Fair value adjustments; and Forex transactions. Enterprise & Supplier Development Services are available to assist members with understanding the TMPS calculation.

Brandstories | 24 October 2023 As the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the state-owned entity reflects on the significant socio-economic impact it has made since its inception. As a key enabler of economic growth, transformation and socio-economic development, the company’s contributions can be seen in the previous financial year’s injection of a staggering R8.4 billion into South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) – positioning it as a vital role player in economic stimulation. At the same time, ACSA has also established itself as a vital part of South Africa’s tourism value chain by developing world-class airport infrastructure - designed to meet the needs of its customers and aligned with industry requirements to support its vision of being a world-leading airport management business. In South Africa, ACSA's current footprint includes airports in nine key business and tourism hubs, which service routes throughout the country. “While we are celebrating ACSA’s 30th anniversary, we are also marking Transport Month in October - so it is only fitting that we take this opportunity to reflect on ACSA’s major contributions to the economy of South Africa and the vital role it plays in the tourism value chain,” says Laurene Less, ACSA Group Executive Corporate Services. At a national level, ACSA’s network is a modal integrator that facilitates trade, tourism and investment. The organisation generates revenue through various sources, including aeronautical, non-aeronautical and commercial activities. At a macro level, ACSA has developed a new global strategy to further South Africa’s foreign and bilateral relations in trade, tourism and air transportation; contribute to the broader continental focus on airport development and management; endorse regional economic integration; and maximise the potential benefit to the Group of the African Open Skies initiative. Less states that ACSA is currently also exploring the diversification of revenue generation, with cargo being an area where ACSA could expand its role to other parts of the airports business, beyond just the facilitation of passengers and aircraft. In addition to contributing R8.4bn to the country’s GDP in the past financial year, the organisation also contributed to employment with 16 225 jobs and an income contribution of R2.8bn. Less notes that improved connectivity is integral to ensuring that South Africa remains a competitive investment destination for trade and tourism, with route and traffic development a key part of ACSA’s work to ensure it grows its footprint and enhances its connectivity as an airport network; boosting South Africa’s connectivity to global markets. “ACSA has a centralised team that is tasked with looking after traffic development at all nine airports in its network. Our approach to route development is to look at partnerships with key entities and agencies that are within the aviation and tourism value chain,” she says. “Since the formation of our business development team, we have participated in route development committees in each locality where we have an airport. These committees bring together critical stakeholders within the aviation and tourism value chain, allowing us to pool our resources to enhance our ability to develop traffic in all those regions.” As such, ACSA not only provides airlines with world-class and secure infrastructure, it also promotes tourism, economic growth and job creation, to be a world-leading airport business. ACSA strives for excellence in all its business undertakings and continues to grow and diversify in an environment of rapidly changing markets, macroeconomic challenges and a volatile aviation industry. “While the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the global aviation industry has been devastating, we are confident that with the foundation of a solid balance sheet, a strong reputation and an established competitive advantage, we are well placed to achieve full recovery and long-term growth,” says Less. She adds that passenger traffic trends analysis shows the international tourism segment continues to be dominated by the European market, which accounted for 39% of international tourist arrivals pre-Covid. ACSA has thus identified the African market as a focus for development and ultimately aims to connect South Africa with every major city in Africa. This will significantly diversify the international source portfolio and support Africa’s integration agenda. “ACSA remains committed to improving and expanding the infrastructure in our network to unlock both the commercial and development potential inherent in our airports and to grow our footprint, especially in Africa,” Less concludes. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/business-report/partnered/acsa-plays-vital-role-in-sas-tourism-value-chain-and-as-major-economic-contributor-cc2c5796-a240-4289-954f-31154aa3ed5f

Rebecca Davis | 18 September 2024 Taking questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said that employment equity policies need to be expedited — and another 20,000 labour inspectors would soon be hired to ensure compliance. Twenty-thousand interns will shortly be appointed as labour inspectors to ensure that businesses are complying with employment equity legislation, Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth told the National Assembly on Wednesday. She was responding to a question about the number of companies which are currently non-compliant with the laws, and acknowledged: “The private sector is found wanting”. Meth had been asked by ANC MP Sello Maeco whether her department had collected data on the state of transformation in the financial sector. The minister said white people still dominated the sector, with representation of 58.8% as compared with black representation at 18%. This showed, she said, the need to “expedite employment equity policies”. Later in the sitting, the minister was asked by Freedom Front Plus MP Heloïse Denner whether her department would “do away with race-based legislation”. Meth responded: “It will be difficult to redress the imbalances of the past merely by ignoring race… Unfortunately, my department is not intending to do away with those laws.” Julius Malema’s children take centre stage The labour minister was appearing before the National Assembly as one of the ministers from the economic cluster tasked with answering MPs’ questions. With Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana out of action, apparently due to ill health, his department was represented by his deputies, David Masondo (ANC) and Ashor Sarupen (DA). Sarupen became embroiled in a verbal bunfight with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) after failing to answer a question about scholar transport and nutrition to the Fighters’ satisfaction. Questioned by EFF MP Veronica Mente about whether the National Treasury set standard rates for transporting and feeding schoolchildren, Sarupen responded that this did not fall within the responsibilities of the department — and was then accused by Mente of being out of touch with the realities of feeding schemes and scholar transport issues due to having his children in a private school. Sarupen clarified that he did not have children — but added: “I am aware that [EFF leader] Honourable [Julius] Malema has his kids in a private school and I’m sure they’re privately transported as well.” This prompted a furious outburst from Malema on the virtual platform, who accused Sarupen of “being a coward and fighting children”. Said Malema: “I went to a public school; I come from a family which has got nothing. I’m not like him from a privileged family.” Taking questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth said that employment equity policies need to be expedited — and another 20,000 labour inspectors would soon be hired to ensure compliance. Twenty-thousand interns will shortly be appointed as labour inspectors to ensure that businesses are complying with employment equity legislation, Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth told the National Assembly on Wednesday. She was responding to a question about the number of companies which are currently non-compliant with the laws, and acknowledged: “The private sector is found wanting”. Meth had been asked by ANC MP Sello Maeco whether her department had collected data on the state of transformation in the financial sector. The minister said white people still dominated the sector, with representation of 58.8% as compared with black representation at 18%. This showed, she said, the need to “expedite employment equity policies”. Later in the sitting, the minister was asked by Freedom Front Plus MP Heloïse Denner whether her department would “do away with race-based legislation”. Meth responded: “It will be difficult to redress the imbalances of the past merely by ignoring race… Unfortunately, my department is not intending to do away with those laws.” Julius Malema’s children take centre stage The labour minister was appearing before the National Assembly as one of the ministers from the economic cluster tasked with answering MPs’ questions. With Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana out of action, apparently due to ill health, his department was represented by his deputies, David Masondo (ANC) and Ashor Sarupen (DA). Sarupen became embroiled in a verbal bunfight with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) after failing to answer a question about scholar transport and nutrition to the Fighters’ satisfaction. Questioned by EFF MP Veronica Mente about whether the National Treasury set standard rates for transporting and feeding schoolchildren, Sarupen responded that this did not fall within the responsibilities of the department — and was then accused by Mente of being out of touch with the realities of feeding schemes and scholar transport issues due to having his children in a private school. Sarupen clarified that he did not have children — but added: “I am aware that [EFF leader] Honourable [Julius] Malema has his kids in a private school and I’m sure they’re privately transported as well.” This prompted a furious outburst from Malema on the virtual platform, who accused Sarupen of “being a coward and fighting children”. Said Malema: “I went to a public school; I come from a family which has got nothing. I’m not like him from a privileged family.” The EFF leader also delivered a thinly veiled threat of violence, saying: “I can attend to you ideologically, theoretically, physically and otherwise, including outside… I am not responsible for your father giving birth to a brainless stupid minister.” Sarupen backed down, saying: “If I have in any way offended any member of the EFF, I withdraw.” State Capture-accused MK MP Lucky Montana subsequently offered to give Sarupen a lecture on the joys of fatherhood — a gesture rejected by the House chair, Werner Horn. Concerns raised about Ithala Bank Among the topics in focus on Wednesday afternoon was Ithala Bank: the KwaZulu-Natal financial institution founded by Mangosuthu Buthelezi which recently had its licence suspended for failing to meet the Financial Sector Conduct Authority’s financial soundness regulations. Masondo told MPs that while Ithala had no banking licence, another bank would stand in for it, with three banks in negotiations over this. “We are dealing with the problem together with Treasury officials,” said Masondo. When asked by ActionSA whether either the Treasury or the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government planned to inject capital into Ithala to prevent a repeat of the VBS Mutual Bank collapse, Masondo replied: “At this stage, there is no plan to recapitalise.” ActionSA released a statement after the National Assembly sitting expressing concern that the “worrying confirmation that [recapitalisation] is not going to happen now places the bank’s continued operation at serious risk”. Should whites be penalised for not opening their doors to census counters? One of the more unusual contributions to Wednesday’s Q&A came from State Capture-accused MK MP Siyabonga Gama, in reference to the ongoing controversy over the utility of the latest census results. Gama, addressing Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenneth Morolong, pointed out that the highest undercount in the country was in Cape Town — which he claimed was because white Capetonians were not willing to open their doors to black and coloured census enumerators. Gama asked whether Morolong would consider, in such cases, invoking a clause of the Statistics Act making it an offence to obstruct the work of the census. Morolong responded that it was hoped that current amendments to the Act under consideration would “give it more teeth”. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2024-09-18-bee-laws-are-here-to-stay-to-redress-the-imbalances-of-the-past-says-labour-minister/?refresh=cache

Michael Andisile Mayalo | 15 October 2024 In the ongoing discourse surrounding the socio-economic challenges facing South Africa, two dominant narratives often emerge: the historical injustices of monopoly capital and apartheid and the accountability of contemporary leaders. While the legacy of apartheid undoubtedly left deep scars and systemic imbalances, we must also examine the actions and decisions of our current leaders. As we reflect on the past, it becomes increasingly clear that the true measure of responsibility extends beyond external factors to encompass the choices made by those in power today. Historically, apartheid created a rigid social structure that privileged a minority while marginalising the majority. Monopoly capital flourished during this time, with wealth and resources concentrated in the hands of a few. However, the transition to democracy in 1994 opened the door for transformative change. Billions of rands have been allocated towards redress, empowerment, and transformation initiatives aimed at uplifting previously disadvantaged communities. Yet, many South Africans remain in poverty, and inequality persists. The question that looms large is: Where has this money gone? A significant portion of the blame for the slow pace of transformation must be directed at our leaders. Many within the African National Congress (ANC) and other governing bodies have misappropriated funds meant for upliftment. Reports of corruption, mismanagement, and internal power struggles have marred the integrity of those entrusted with advancing the nation. It is shocking to realise that while millions of ordinary South Africans struggle to make ends meet, leaders indulge in lavish lifestyles, often funded by the very resources intended for the nation’s progress. Moreover, it is essential to recognise that many ANC leaders benefitted from the very systems they now criticise. The educational opportunities afforded to them by white institutions and benefactors speak to a complicated legacy. These leaders’ children have had access to quality education, scholarships, and international opportunities that remain out of reach for many South Africans. The irony is not lost on those who fought for freedom only to see their offspring enjoy privileges that are inaccessible to the majority. This paradox raises fundamental questions about commitment to equality and transformation. As we analyse the motivations behind these dynamics, it becomes evident that our struggle has often shifted from collective liberation to individualistic gain. The fervor for tenders and government contracts has replaced the once-shared vision of an equitable society. What should have been a focus on building a unified nation grounded in justice and equality has, in many cases, devolved into fierce competition for positions of power and access to resources. It is crucial to acknowledge that capitalism, despite its flaws, has provided opportunities for many. The argument that "capitalism empowered their people" holds merit; it allowed for the establishment of businesses, job creation, and economic growth in many communities. In contrast, the post-apartheid narrative often feels like a scramble for survival, where securing a tender or government position is perceived as the only pathway to economic stability. This focus has limited our potential for genuine economic empowerment. In assessing the current state of our society, we must ask ourselves: What does true transformation look like? Is it merely the redistribution of resources, or does it require a fundamental shift in mindset? The answer lies in redefining our priorities as a nation. Leadership should be measured not just by financial gain but by the ability to uplift communities, foster inclusivity, and instill a sense of collective responsibility. South Africa stands at a crossroads, where the potential for greatness exists alongside the very real dangers of corruption and disunity. As citizens, we must demand accountability from our leaders and challenge the systems that perpetuate inequality. This means advocating for transparency, supporting ethical leadership, and fostering a culture of service over self-interest. We must emphasise education and empowerment for all. Our focus should shift from mere access to positions of power to building a knowledgeable, skilled populace that can innovate and drive change. By investing in education and skill development, we can cultivate a generation that is not only aware of its history but also equipped to create a more equitable future. Furthermore, while the remnants of monopoly capital and apartheid undeniably shape our current realities, it is essential to hold our leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. The transformation of our society requires a commitment to collective upliftment and ethical governance. As we look towards the future, let us remember that true freedom lies not only in the absence of oppression but in the presence of opportunity for all. The responsibility rests with us-to demand better, to engage in dialogue, and to work towards a society where every individual can thrive, irrespective of their background. The time for change is now, and it starts with us. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.iol.co.za/the-star/opinion/whos-in-control-the-realities-of-economic-power-2d835a32-223a-4ae9-ab21-ac82a5e1ef66

Statistics South Africa is the source used to determine the Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) for calculating the targets for Enterprise Development, Supplier Development and Socio-Economic Development. The latest statistics  were published during September 2024. The statistics in this version will be for the 2nd quarter of 2024.   Any B-BBEE Verification from hereon would most commonly apply the latest Industry Norm published by Statistics South Africa. For example, if a B-BBEE Verification takes place in October 2024, the latest published stats to be used would be those posted during September 2024.    Technical Compliance Services  are available to guide members in calculating their Targets.

Under Statement 400 of the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice , clause 3.9 indicates how to recognise the spend of at least 51% Black Owned or at least 51% Black Women Owned Suppliers. Clause 3.9 states the following: 3.9 B-BBEE Procurement Spend from Generic Entity Suppliers which are at least 51% Black Owned or at least 51% Black Women Owned utilizing the flow through principle can be recognized under Point Indicator 2.1.2 and 2.1.3 of the Enterprise and Supplier Development Scorecard. However, this is based on the provision that at the first instance of procuring goods and services, it was identified that such suppliers were EMEs or QSEs. This recognition for Generic Entities under Point Indicator 2.1.2 and 2.1.3 will only be allowed for 5 years from the first time of procuring goods and services from such suppliers. Enterprise & Supplier Development Services are available to assist Members with understanding these requirements.

Dianne Kohler Barnard | 21 April 2023 DA MP says company would have to hand over 30% equity ownership if it wants license to operate. “in order for Starlink to operate in South Africa, they require… Individual IECS/IECNS applicants or licensees to have a minimum 30% equity ownership held by persons from historically disadvantaged groups”... In a written response received from the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, the ANC, in no uncertain terms, declared that South Africans will never receive free internet or data and that millions will continue to live with no access to technology, unless it is provided by an ANC cadre or tenderpreneur. It is simply laughable that an international multibillion dollar company must hand over at least 30% of its equity to the ANC government to operate within South Africa. Elon Musk’s Starlink is the world's first and largest satellite constellation to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more. Examples of countries benefitting from its use include Ukraine during the Russian invasion where Musk ensured that any attempt to black out communications by the Russians would fail. South Africa looks set to become one of the only African countries to not roll out Starlink. Currently, at least 20 African countries have either rolled out or are set to get Starlink in the near future. Even our neighbours, Mozambique and Botswana are ahead of us in the rollout. If Starlink were available in South Africa, children in even the most rural of areas would have access to information and learning materials, and others would be able to educate themselves beyond the constraints of formal universities or schools which millions simply cannot afford. Everyone would have access to streaming services where different trades and skills can be learnt or even where the government would now have the opportunity to set up free online educational portals to give everyone a fighting chance of escaping the high levels of unemployment. Instead, the ANC would prefer to keep the people of South Africa in the digital dark, uneducated and unable to create prosperous opportunities for themselves or lift themselves out of extreme poverty. It is nonsensical that where such an opportunity could present itself, the ANC would rather stick to its archaic cadre deployment style policies and rather ensure that its politically connected friends are awarded exorbitant tenders rather than actually make a difference in the lives of South Africans. I will immediately be writing to the Minister to amend these regulations to remove the archaic, irrational and ridiculous hurdles to progress. Additionally, the DA will ask both Elon Musk’s office and Space X to make an application to the ANC government to provide these services within South Africa and pressure the ANC into allowing our people to join the rest of the world online and not become the digital pariah of not only our own continent but the rest of the world. Issued by Dianne Kohler Barnard, DA Shadow Minister of Communications ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.politicsweb.co.za/documents/anc-blocks-elon-musks-starlink-in-south-africa--dk

Cape Business News | 1 March 2023 Pic source: https://neasa.co.za/2023-skills-development-submission IT is time to submit your annual Workplace Skills Plan/Annual Training Report again. Do not delay and start early with your preparations to ensure a successful submission for your company. Companies can qualify for skills development incentives by submitting an Annual Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR). By submitting this report, businesses will benefit in the following ways: qualify to claim back a ‘mandatory grant’ of 20% of your Skills Development Levy (SDL); maximising points earned under the Skills Development priority element for BEE; highlighting skills gaps in your organisation – the difference between the skills required for a job and the skills employees actually possess; implementing training to minimise these skills gaps; and applying for ‘discretionary grant’ funding to address ‘critical and scarce skill shortages’ identified in your industry. The deadline for the submissions is 30 April 2023. ‘Disclaimer - The views expressed here are not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.cbn.co.za/industry-news/skills-training-development/2023-skills-development-submission/