Municipalities Are Taking More Water From Dams Than Permitted
One municipality regularly exceeds its water allocation limit yet it received top marks for water management from the water department
One municipality regularly exceeds its water allocation limit yet it received top marks for water management from the water department
If you’re one of South Africa’s 1.9 million car owners who’ve financed their cars, here’s a sound piece of advice: Add shortfall cover to your car insurance. Why, you might ask? Well, between July and September 2024, 8,597 cars were stolen and a further 5,477 were hi-jacked across the country. In addition, South Africa’s roads …
The future of theatre and digital storytelling is here. The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT), in collaboration with Soda World and the Dumisani Masilela Theatre (DMT), proudly announces the launch of South Africa’s first-ever Smart Theatre. Supported by the City of Ekurhuleni and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, this groundbreaking initiative will be […]
African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies, the premier platform for Africa's energy sector, marks its fifth anniversary in 2025, celebrating a legacy of driving investment, fostering partnerships and advancing the continent's energy future. Since its inception, AEW has established itself as the continent's leading energy event, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, investors and global stakeholders to catalyze development across Africa's oil, gas and renewable sectors.
Over the past five years, AEW has facilitated multi-billion-dollar deals, shaped policy discussions and strengthened regional cooperation. Its inaugural edition in 2021 set a strong foundation, attracting 1,700 delegates, including ministers, global energy executives and financial institutions. The event reinforced Africa's appeal to investors while establishing AEW's strategic goal of eradicating energy poverty by 2030. The event introduced key features such as the African Energy Awards, panel discussions and forums covering the entire energy sector across four venues. Country spotlight sessions provided market insights, while the African Energy Chamber, alongside African energy ministers and a representative from the German government, launched the African Green Energy Dialogue Initiative to accelerate investment in Africa's green energy space.
The 2022 edition of AEW kicked off with opening remarks from esteemed African leaders including the presidents of Uganda and Mozambique, Minister of Hydrocarbons from the Republic of Congo, as well as prominent industry figures from APPO, the European Commission, the International Energy Forum and the private sector. AEW 2022 provided a platform for high-level discussions on investment opportunities, energy policy and strategies for driving Africa's energy transition. In addition to insightful discussions and networking opportunities, AEW 2022 introduced the Just Energy Transition Concert, blending music and culture with energy dialogue to promote investment, development and wider participation across the energy industry.
AEW 2023 saw an unprecedented level of participation, with opening remarks from the presidents of Namibia, Senegal and Uganda, alongside energy ministers from South Africa, South Sudan, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, the Republic of Congo, Ghana and Mozambique. Representatives from OPEC, APPO, GECF, and key global partners from Russia, the U.S., Europe, and Saudi Arabia further reinforced the event's strategic importance. Afreximbank played a central role, hosting a dedicated deal room and supporting Africa's growing M&A activity. Key agreements signed included Afreximbank's $75 million financing deal with Torxen Energy Resources for Nigeria's PPL 241, a hydrogen exploration agreement between The Gambia and H2 Gambia Limited, and a $60 million term loan for Alphaden Energy & Oilfield Limited to develop a gas facility in Nigeria. Additionally, the African Energy Chamber partnered with the Black Impact Foundation to promote global opportunities for the Black community. The African Farmout Forum connected investors with available blocks, accelerating exploration and partnerships across Africa's oil and gas sector.
In 2024, AEW underscored its role as a catalyst for deal-making and sectoral development. Afreximbank committed over $120 million in financial facilities to support Africa's oil and gas sector, while the Republic of Congo's Société nationale des pétroles du Congo partnered with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan to modernize the CORAF refinery and the African Farmout Forum returned to highlight available block opportunities for partnership and investment. The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and delegations, including energy ministers from South Africa, Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Gabon, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and Angola; OPEC and APPO secretary generals; and top executives from Eni, bp, Chevron, TotalEnergies and other leading energy companies.
The fifth edition of AEW promises an even greater focus on investment opportunities and project developments, including 2025/2026 licensing rounds, multi-phase LNG facilities, new refining capacity, drilling and appraisal programs and cross-border pipeline infrastructure. All flagship features will return, including the Big Five Stages of Premium Industry Content, the African Farmout Forum, the Deal Room, the OPEC-Africa Roundtable and more. With capital-intensive projects requiring global financing, AEW 2025 will serve as the premier platform to connect investors with Africa's most promising energy opportunities.
By bringing together key stakeholders, AEW has enhanced Africa's global competitiveness, enabled cross-border partnerships and fostered policy dialogue that advances sustainable energy development. As the conference celebrates five years of impact, its role in shaping the future of Africa's energy sector remains stronger than ever, ensuring that the continent's vast energy resources continue to drive sustainable development and economic transformation.
“The five-year milestone is a testament to AEW's commitment to shaping the future of Africa's energy sector. As the continent continues to navigate the complexities of energy development, AEW remains a vital platform for stakeholders to engage and drive progress across the continent,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, adding “As AEW celebrates five years of impact, its influence on the continent's energy landscape remains unparalleled. The conference has consistently demonstrated its ability to drive sustainable energy development, ensuring that Africa's vast energy resources are harnessed to drive economic transformation and sustainable development.”
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECweek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
17.4-million people have applied for the Social Relief of Distress grant since it was introduced in May 2020
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the reported deaths of 16 persons in a bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport earlier today, Tuesday 11 March 2025.
The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery.
President Ramaphosa's thoughts are also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.
The President said: “While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors.
Incidents such as these impact on people's ability to earn a living; they impact in our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.
As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country.
When we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.
Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe.
Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
A well-planned trade show booth can help businesses attract attention, generate leads, and make valuable connections. With so many exhibitors competing for visitors, standing out requires a combination of smart booth design, clear messaging, and active engagement. A strong trade show display can make all the difference in capturing interest and making a lasting impression. …
Breaking barriers: Mbali's journey into the building industry
Zandile Mbali had always dreamed of becoming a social worker, but due to financial difficulties, she was forced to put her education on hold, and struggled with uncertainty, unsure of how to move forward.
However, after years of being at home with no prospects, Mbali found a new path, one she never imagined for herself. This after a friend introduced her to the diverse training programmes offered at Xilembeni Project Centre of Excellence, a non-profit organisation (NPO) funded by the Gauteng Department of Social Development.
Today, the 32-year-old from Tsakane, Ekurhuleni, in the eastern part of Gauteng, is proudly studying Building Engineering at Xilembeni.
Mbali had initially hesitated at the thought of joining a male-dominated industry and the idea of lifting bricks, mixing concrete and working on construction sites seemed intimidating.
However, the encouragement of her classmates, mostly men, gave her the confidence to take a leap of faith.
“Women are underrepresented in the construction industry, but my dream is to start my own construction company. Turning back is not in my vocabulary. The men in my class are incredibly supportive, and that has made all the difference,” Mbali said.
Determined to succeed, she started researching the experiences women in construction go through, and she discovered some of the challenges they face, including discrimination, harassment, gender bias, and the struggle to balance work and family life.
However, Mbali also realised that the right work environment and support system could make all the difference.
On her first day at Xilembeni, Mbali was introduced to the basics of digging and setting a foundation, both literally and figuratively. With each passing day, her confidence grows, and she now looks forward to furthering her education and expanding her skills.
She hopes to inspire other young people, especially women, to explore opportunities beyond traditional careers.
“Many learners give up on life when they cannot afford university, not knowing that government offers opportunities like Xilembeni. I want to share this information because too many young people in my community are falling into dangerous lifestyles, such as substance abuse.”
Mbali was also pleasantly surprised by the support she received at Xilembeni, which not only provides training, but also offers transportation and daily meals, alleviating some of the burdens on the students.
With graduation now on the horizon, Mbali stands proudly as a future builder. Her next goal is to establish her own construction company, proving that no dream is too big — even in an industry historically dominated by men.
Her story is one of resilience, courage, and the power of second chances. Through hard work and determination, Mbali is not just learning to build structures; she is laying the foundation for a bright future. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 15:13
190 views
Businesses rely on effective marketing tools to attract attention and communicate their message. A well-placed retractable banner can make a strong impact at trade shows, corporate events, retail locations, and promotional campaigns. These banners are designed to be easy to use, cost-effective, and visually appealing, making them a popular choice for brands looking to enhance …
Call for collaboration to boost infrastructure investment
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the need for strong collaboration between government and business to scale up infrastructure investment and drive South Africa’s economic growth.
Speaking during a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly on Tuesday, the President highlighted the importance of structural reforms to address key constraints, such as energy supply and inefficiencies in freight and logistics.
“For South Africa to achieve the levels of economic growth it needs, it is essential that government and business work together to scale up investment in infrastructure.
“Government has committed to an ambitious infrastructure build programme. Infrastructure spend by government will encourage and enable greater private sector investment in sectors such as electricity generation, electricity distribution, rail rolling-stock, and water distribution,” the President said.
However, he stressed the distinction between public and private financial resources, particularly pension funds held by financial institutions. These funds, he noted, belong to workers and are intended for their retirement, making them private assets rather than State resources.
To facilitate infrastructure investment, the President said that government needs to provide these savers with a reasonable return and ensure that these funds are safeguarded.
In 2022, National Treasury amended Regulation 28 of the Pension Funds Act to allow for longer-term infrastructure investments by retirement funds. The changes introduced a definition of infrastructure and set a 45% upper limit for pension fund investments in infrastructure projects.
Further regulatory adjustments have been made to facilitate economic development, including separating the investment limits for hedge funds and private equity. The allocation for private equity assets has been increased from 10% to 15%, allowing for greater infrastructure investments.
In the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement of October 2024, the Minister of Finance announced work underway on mechanisms to complement the changes to Regulation 28 through the development of specific investment vehicles to simplify and incentivise institutional investors.
The President said details on these mechanisms will be published in the upcoming Budget, which is expected to be delivered on Wednesday, 12 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 15:53
271 views
Ekurhuleni bus accident claims 16 lives
Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport Planning, Andile Mngwevu, has extended condolences to the loved one of the victims of the road crash that claimed 16 lives this morning.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a passenger bus owned by the City of Ekurhuleni and a light motor vehicle (LMV). The bus was carrying passengers from Katlehong to Pomona.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.
"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane.
"In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.
The injured were transported to OR Tambo, Tembisa and Edenvale hospitals.
Official investigations are ongoing.
“We are at a loss for words. This is a devastating tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the deceased, and our prayers are with those who are recovering in various hospitals around the area.
“The city’s thoughts are with the families, who expected their loved ones to return home later today. Our hearts are heavy,” Mngwevu said.
Mngwevu has, however, rejected claims that the bus was overloaded. He vowed that the city will leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of the cause of the accident. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 15:54
135 views
US remains a strategic and historic partner for SA
Government will continue engaging with the United States of America administration and other stakeholders to address the mischaracterisation of South Africa, while also strengthening diplomatic ties between the two countries, President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
The President was speaking during a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
“South Africa maintains its active engagement with the United States through political, diplomatic and economic channels.
“We have taken note of an Executive Order and recent statements by the current US administration about South Africa and aspects of our domestic and foreign policy. We have expressed concern about the mischaracterisation of the situation in South Africa, and certain [parts] of our laws and our foreign policy positions,” he said.
Last month, US President Donald Trump issued an Executive Order – titled Addressing Egregious Actions of the Republic of South Africa – ordering, in the main, that as a result of the Expropriation Act, that the US shall not provide aid or assistance to South Africa, and that the "United States shall promote the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees escaping government-sponsored race-based discrimination, including racially discriminatory property confiscation", among others.
At the time, the South African government said it remains committed to finding diplomatic solutions to any misunderstandings or disputes arising from the recently promulgated Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 and other policies.
Signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in January 2025, the Expropriation Act, states that property may not be expropriated arbitrarily or for a purpose other than a public purpose or in the public interest.
The Expropriation Act, which underwent a five-year public consultation process, was deliberated in Parliament, and is in line with the South African Constitution.
The Act repeals the Expropriation Act of 1975 and allows for the State to expropriate land in the public interest – subject to just and equitable compensation.
At Tuesday’s session, the President highlighted that soon after the establishment of the Government of National Unity last year, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and the Minister and Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition undertook official visits to Washington, D.C. for engagements with the administration, members of Congress, business and academia.
“Following the election of President Trump in November last year, I had a telephone call with the President-Elect to congratulate him on his election and to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening relations between our two countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
He also highlighted that Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool has recently been posted to Washington for his second stint as South Africa’s envoy to the United States.
Rasool is on the ground with his team, engaging with various stakeholders to underscore the importance of deepening economic, political, and cultural relations between these two historic partners. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 16:08
44 views
Johannesburg, South Africa – B&W Productions, a renowned event management company, has once again demonstrated its expertise in crafting unforgettable experiences with its recent event at Sun City. This successful collaboration with Good Works Media underscores B&W Productions’ commitment to delivering high-quality events that exceed expectations. B&W Productions, with nearly three decades of experience in …
World Rugby and SA Rugby have launched a new Brain Health Service to support former elite South African players in keeping their brain as healthy as their body once they have retired from the game. The free of charge service, includes an awareness and education component, an online questionnaire and tele-health delivered cognitive assessment with …
Summit to boost small enterprise development in KZN
Business leaders, entrepreneurs and government officials in KwaZulu-Natal are currently engaging on critical issues impacting small enterprises across the province.
These role players are gathered at the 2025 Umyezane Summit, Conference and Awards, which is taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and hosted by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).
Addressing the opening of the summit on Monday, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli emphasised the pivotal role played by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in driving economic transformation and creating jobs within the province.
“The growth of SMMEs is central to building a resilient and inclusive economy. Through initiatives like the Umyezane Summit, we aim to empower small businesses, strengthen township and rural economies, and ensure that historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs are given meaningful opportunities to thrive,” Ntuli said.
He highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurs by addressing barriers including crime, access to funding, and market opportunities.
The summit and accompanying awards reflect the provincial government’s vision of fostering a thriving, inclusive economy driven by small enterprises.
Ntuli assured entrepreneurs that KwaZulu-Natal remains committed to policy reforms, financial support, and capacity-building programmes that will position SMMEs as key drivers of economic growth.
EDTEA MEC Musa Zondi noted the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking economic opportunities for SMMEs.
“We must remove red tape, foster innovation and create sustainable pathways for small businesses to succeed in both local and global markets,” Zondi said.
The summit features panel discussions, policy dialogues, and networking sessions, where stakeholders engaged on topics including:
• Crime and business security – Addressing the impact of crime on small businesses and strategies to enhance security.
• Regulatory and policy compliance – Simplifying business registration and licensing processes.
• Revitalising township and rural economies – Exploring innovative approaches to support businesses in historically underserved areas.
• Access to funding and market opportunities – Strengthening financial support mechanisms for SMMEs.
• The Black Industrialists Programme – Accelerating transformation by expanding support for Black-owned enterprises in key sectors.
Recognising excellence in entrepreneurship
During the award ceremony on Monday, Ntuli commended the recipients for their dedication and contribution to economic development, reaffirming government’s ongoing support for the province’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The awards celebrated outstanding entrepreneurs, who have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and business excellence in KwaZulu-Natal, including youth and women-owned businesses, rural enterprises, and emerging industrialists.
The summit ends today. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 12:30
178 views
Protesters want a new bridge and better roads
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa – Events Guys, a leading event management and infrastructure company, continues to set the standard for delivering exceptional event experiences across South Africa. Specializing in corporate events, conferences, product launches, trade shows, and exhibitions, the company offers a wide range of services designed to transform any venue into a memorable celebration …
On Monday, 10 March 2025, Premier Alan Winde signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Western Cape Government and the Regional Council of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, further extending the two region’s long-standing partnership. “In times of geopolitical uncertainty, further solidifying international partnerships such as the one we concluded with the Regional Council of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, provides …
Operation Shanela nets more than 14 000 suspects
Through its high-density operation, commonly known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 14 165 suspects between Monday, 03 March 2025, and Sunday, 09 March 2025.
“Through Operation Shanela, the SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country. These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches as well as tracing of wanted suspects,” the SAPS said in a statement.
All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.
During the period, the following arrests were made:
Under recoveries and confiscations, police registered the following successes:
On Friday, 07 March 2025, the National Commissioner for SAPS, General Fannie Masemola presided over a drug destruction process in which R340 million worth of drugs were destroyed, this included cocaine worth R220 million seized during police operations.
General Masemola commended the vigilance and commitment of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) and Crime Intelligence officers in the Western Cape following the arrest of two suspects at a storage facility in Bellville, Cape Town.
The arrest of the duo, a man and a woman, followed the discovery of 50 000 mandrax tablets and an arms cache including three AK47 rifles and twelve 9mm pistols amongst other firearms
Also, a shipment of cocaine worth R6 million was detected and seized at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday, 04 March 2025. The drugs were concealed in boxes disguised as hair products.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the shipment was en route to France from Brazil via South Africa.
Police arrested a 37-year-old suspect for theft and tampering with essential infrastructure; the suspect illegally connected electricity. The team also seized 41 Eskom transformers worth millions in lost revenue during multiple operations carried out in Winterveldt, Erasmia and Diepsloot, last week.
“The police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 14:37
49 views
Thirty South African Olympians will be recognised at the inaugural Post-Nominal “OLY” Awards Ceremony, hosted by the South African Olympians Association (SAOA), at Olympic House, the head office of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC), in Johannesburg this Friday, 14 March 2025. This event marks a significant step towards creating a lasting …
Basic Education surpasses 93% milestone in eradicating pit toilets
The Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative has successfully eradicated over 93% of identified pit toilets in public schools across the country.
This was revealed by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube in Parliament today, where senior officials from the department presented to the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education the analysis, implications and effects of the President’s 2025 State of the Nation Address.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) said this significant milestone marks a critical step toward ensuring that all learners have access to safe and dignified sanitation facilities.
“Despite the severe fiscal constraints facing the basic education sector, the department has remained resolute in its commitment to meeting the deadline set by President Cyril Ramaphosa to eradicate unsafe sanitation in schools by 31 March 2025.
“The progress made thus far reflects the collaborative efforts of national and provincial education departments, the private sector, and development partners who have played a crucial role in fast-tracking the delivery of safer toilets,” the department said.
While substantial strides have been made, the Minister announced that DBE will intensify efforts to ensure full compliance. She will conduct site visits in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo, the two provinces most affected by the legacy of unsafe sanitation infrastructure.
The Minister’s visits will allow for first-hand monitoring of the final phase of implementation and direct engagement with communities, school leadership, and implementing agents to ensure that all remaining projects are completed as scheduled.
“The department acknowledges the ongoing challenges posed by budget constraints, infrastructure backlogs, and rising construction costs.
“However, the eradication of pit toilet infrastructure backlog remains a non-negotiable priority, and all efforts are being made to ensure that every learner in South Africa has access to safe and hygienic school sanitation,” the department said.
The department will continue to provide regular updates on progress, as the 31 March 2025 deadline approaches. It said it remains committed to transparency and accountability in delivering on this critical mandate. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 13:08
17 views
Dear Editor The DA celebrates news announced today in Parliament’s National Council of Provinces by Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, that over 93% of the targeted eradication of schools’ pit latrines has been achieved so far across our country. There remains more to do be done, but we look forward to the Minister’s update …
The Oceans 8 Charity Swim makes its highly anticipated return to Vetch’s Beach, Durban Undersea Club, on June 14th & 15th (16th) 2025 – bringing together passionate swimmers, ocean lovers, and change-makers for a challenge that goes beyond the waves. Founded by charities for charities, this feel-good, warm-water swim is more than just a race …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane has submitted a set of formal investigatory criteria to Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya which are critical areas to be probed to get to the truth about the allegations of corruption swarming around Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise. Because Mayor Moya has said that the investigation into Modise will …
