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21 February 2025 – Banyana Banyana coach Dr Desiree Ellis flashed a fleeting smile as she made her way off a surprisingly sun-bathed University of Johannesburg Auckland Park Campus stadium on Friday afternoon. She had just concluded her final training session ahead of Saturday’s international friendly match against neighbours Lesotho, just a few kilometers away […]
The post Banyana prepare for Lesotho test first appeared on SAFA.net.
Cabinet calls for national unity against misinformation and external pressure
Cabinet has urged all South Africans to stand united in defending the country against a growing wave of misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda aimed at distorting government efforts and sow division among citizens.
Cabinet said this in a statement on Friday, following a Cabinet meeting held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting held on 29 January 2025.
“We must not allow false narratives to divide us. We are a resilient nation that has more in common, and our history has demonstrated that there is no challenge we cannot overcome when we pull together.
“We are called on to stand for the love for our country, which is rooted in our democratic values of non-racialism, tolerance, compassion, peace, justice, equality, freedom and human dignity,” Cabinet said.
Reflecting on South Africa’s historical struggle for justice, Cabinet reaffirmed that the nation cannot turn a blind eye to human rights violations perpetuated around the world, nor can it ignore the less fortunate people who require its voice to ease their suffering.
Cabinet further reiterated President Ramaphosa’s strong stance in his recent State of the Nation Address, where he emphasised that South Africa would not be bullied or coerced by external pressures.
“South Africa belongs to all who live in it, and we are united in our diversity. Let us speak with one voice in defence of our national interests, sovereignty and constitutional democracy.
“Together, we are building a nation that encourages dialogue, fosters social cohesion and embraces all people, regardless of race,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:01
223 views
Cabinet briefed on implications of aid funding withdrawal
Cabinet says it has been briefed about the withdrawal of aid funding by the United States (US) government and its implications for South Africa, particularly on the HIV/AIDS and TB programmes.
In a statement issued on Friday, Cabinet said government was aware of the suspension of this withdrawal for a period of 90 days while the US Government reviews its position.
“Cabinet wishes to assure all South Africans that government will not allow a situation that leads to defaulting by any South African participating in the HIV/AIDS prevention and management programme,” the statement said.
South Africa runs the largest HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, treatment and management programme across 52 districts at the total cost of R46.8 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.
The US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), supported by the US Agency for International Development, is responsible for only 17% of this budget across 27 districts in eight provinces.
“The government of South Africa funds 90% of the antiretroviral procurement and Global Fund is responsible for funding 10% of this cost. In this regard, PEPFAR funds are only used for the salaries and operational costs of the people they appointed directly in the 27 districts,” Cabinet said.
The statement was issued following a Cabinet Meeting on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 29 January 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:07
282 views
If you’re looking to sell your jewellery for cash, there are a few important things you should know before going ahead with the process. Whether you’re clearing out your jewellery box, need cash urgently, or want to liquidate some of your gold jewellery, understanding the jewellery selling process is crucial. In this article, we’ll discuss …
21 February 2025 – Coach Helman Mkhalele has announced the South Africa squad that will face Egypt over two legs in a first round African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier in the coming days. Mkhalele, who is assistant to South African men’s senior national team mentor Hugo Broos, will coach the side that will represent South […]
The post Mkhalele announces Bafana CHAN squad first appeared on SAFA.net.
More protests are planned in Durban and Pretoria
Cabinet reiterates SA’s commitment to ensuring stability in the DRC
Cabinet has reiterated South Africa’s commitment to a diplomatic solution that ensures stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while also protecting the well-being of the Congolese people.
In a statement on Friday, Cabinet paid tribute to the 14 gallant South African soldiers who were killed recently in the DRC while undertaking a United Nations (UN)-backed peacekeeping mission.
“These brave soldiers had been deployed in the country as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) and the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO),” Cabinet said following its meeting on 12 February and a Special Cabinet meeting on 29 January.
Cabinet affirmed that South Africa would continue to play its peacekeeping mission role and support other African countries whose solidarity, and material support helped secure the country’s liberation.
Cabinet was updated on the recent developments in the eastern DRC and called on all parties to embrace current diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a peaceful resolution.
The parties were also called to adhere to calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and restoration of essential utilities.
Cabinet further welcomed efforts by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders, aimed at finding a resolution to the conflict and facilitating the repatriation of the deceased and injured soldiers of South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania.
The remains of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who died in the eastern DRC were returned home last week and handed over to their families during a memorial service, held at Swartkop Air Force Base in Centurion.
READ | Fallen soldiers paid the ultimate price
“The outcome of the Heads of State Summit held in Tanzania on 8 February 2025 on the conflict also provides a beacon of hope for the troubled eastern DRC,” Cabinet said.
READ | SADC-EAC leaders call for dialogue in DRC conflict
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:13
315 views
Roodepoort, February, 21, 2025: South Africans intending to permanently relocate or undertake extended employment abroad may consider ceasing their tax residency. This enables them to avoid taxation on their world-wide or global earnings. To accomplish this correctly, it is essential to comply with the specific criteria established by the South African Revenue Services (SARS). Understanding the …
Grant beneficiaries urged to replace expiring SASSA Gold Cards
Cabinet has called on all social grant beneficiaries to replace their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards by the 20 March 2025 deadline.
In a statement on Friday, Cabinet said this is to ensure that beneficiaries continue to access their SASSA grant payments without disruption.
“Social grant beneficiaries can go to their nearest Postbank site located at retailers such as Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer to get their Postbank Black Card," Cabinet said.
After the 20 March 2025 deadline - which was extended from the initial 28 February deadline - SASSA Gold Cards will no longer function at ATMs and retailers.
The call follows concerns among grant recipients about the looming expiry of the SASSA Gold Cards and potential payment delays.
Postbank, which administers the social grant payment system, has however assured beneficiaries that the transition to the new Postbank Black Card is simple and free of charge.
The move is part of Postbank’s broader efforts to modernise and secure the grant payment system, following past disruptions caused by fraud, card cloning, and system failures.
By migrating to the new cards, beneficiaries can expect improved security and reliability when accessing their grants.
Postbank has deployed additional support at designated retailers and SASSA offices to assist with the replacement process, urging beneficiaries to make the switch before the deadline to avoid any inconvenience.
The agency has previously said that Postbank has also made it easy for beneficiaries to locate the nearest place in every province where they can collect their Postbank Black Cards.
All they need to do from the comfort of their homes is to use their cellphone and:
To get the new Postbank Black Cards, beneficiaries are required to have a valid South African ID, or a temporary ID. Beneficiaries are urged to be aware that no card will be issued without these documents.
Ensuring that minimum documentation is required to get the new Postbank Black Cards is in line with SASSA and Postbank's ongoing commitment to continuously improve the customer experience of all social grant beneficiaries.
The Postbank Black Cards will be issued free of charge. For further enquiries, beneficiaries can contact Postbank on 0800 53 54 55 or SASSA on 0800 60 10 11. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:21
324 views
Crime Stats reveal reduction in some categories of crime
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says although there has been some reduction in several categories, more still needs to be done to reduce the country’s crime levels.
“We are positioning ourselves accordingly in terms of policing whilst we continue our work throughout the whole country,” Mchunu said.
The Minister was presenting the Quarterly Crime Statistics, reflecting on crimes that occurred during the third quarter of the current financial year (1 October 2024 – 31 December 2024).
At Friday’s briefing in Pretoria, the Minister said the police had observed an overall decrease in several categories of crime when compared to the same period in the previous year.
“We have also registered a 4.5% reduction in stock theft, which is a welcome relief for farmers, communities and the agricultural sector as a whole,” Mchunu said, adding that the positive shift highlights the importance of continued collaboration between law enforcement, local leaders and communities to safeguard this vital industry.
“Although the percentage appears to be relatively small, we note the outcry of communities that farm livestock, particularly in the eastern Free State, north western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and in the northern Eastern Cape, hence our plan to combine these three provinces in a meeting to discuss this challenge.
“We must, however, also acknowledge the areas that require urgent attention. We have seen an increase in cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property. These crimes continue to disrupt communities and demand a reinforced response from law enforcement.
“For the third quarter, all provinces recorded a decrease in murder cases, marking a significant milestone in our national crime reduction efforts,” the Minister explained.
Murder
However, he expressed concern over the provinces of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.
This as Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal remain the highest contributors to overall national murder figures, accounting for 25.0% and 21.4% respectively, while the Eastern and Western Cape account for 18.9% and 17.4%.
“The Western Cape continues to record the highest number of gang-related murders, with 263 counts reported in this quarter alone.
“This is completely unacceptable, and it must change. A large number of these murders (collectively amounting to a figure of 135) occurred in Bishop Lavis, Mitchells Plain, Kleinvlei, Delft and Elsies River.
A 9.8% decrease in murder cases was recorded in the quarter.
“The issue of gang violence requires a rethink in approach, because this is not only a historic matter but is also repetitive in nature, there is no point in us discussing one and the same thing with no change.”
He further announced that the police are dedicating 27 February to amongst other things, to review policing in high murder zones. The focus, said the Minister, will be on murders and firearms, after which they will decide on the concrete steps to be taken.
“Partnerships with communities and other partners will be a critical element in the rethinking approach. A combination of interventions indicates that there are much more effective methods of fighting crime and criminals.
“Several individuals have been dealt with in a number of areas in the Eastern Cape recently and KwaZulu- Natal, following a series of taxi violence and extortion related murders. I do want to state that no one is classified as “untouchable” – you do wrong, we arrest you,” Mchunu said.
Crimes against women and children
Mchunu said while police have registered an overall reduction in contact crimes against women, the men and women in blue are deeply concerned by the increase in attempted murder cases against children aged 0 to 17 years.
“This is an alarming development that calls for a concerted effort to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” he said.
Another bugbear was that of extortions, kidnappings and drugs with these matters being added to the meeting on 27 February.
Police have noted that some of the kidnappings are orchestrated from the St Albans prison in the Eastern Cape and that the mastermind of these kidnappings still has access to a number of cellphones.
Meanwhile, the statistics showed a 3.3% reduction in rape cases; a 3.2% drop in attempted sexual offences and a decline in carjackings and robberies at both residential and non-residential premises.
Police also registered a 4.5% reduction in stock theft, which is a welcome relief for farmers, communities and the agricultural sector as a whole.
Safer Festive Season, new recruits
Mchunu said the Safer Festive Season initiative, launched in October 2024, has played a significant role in the recorded crime reductions.
“Through heightened police visibility and strategic operations, fewer crimes were reported and recorded during this period.
“A key element in our crime-fighting strategy has been Project 10 000, aimed at bolstering police personnel,” he said.
In addition, to bolster the fight against crime, police welcomed 5500 new recruits at various South African Police Service (SAPS) academies.
“These individuals will undergo rigorous training and, upon completion, will reinforce our crime-fighting efforts as constables. This initiative not only enhances policing capacity but also contributes to job creation, a crucial aspect in addressing social determinants of crime,” the minister said.
Destroying illegal weapons
Mchunu said that just yesterday, 16 049 firearms were destroyed in accordance with Section 149 of the Firearms Control Act.
“We will continue to carry out measures aimed at ensuring that illegal weapons are seized and destroyed so as to ensure the safety of our communities,” he said.
Mchunu appealed to communities to work hand in hand with law enforcement.
“Crime thrives in silence, and we urge all South Africans to report criminal activities, cooperate with the police, and participate in community policing forums,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 13:52
208 views
Foreign Ministers’ Meeting backs SA’s G20 Presidency priorities
The Group of 20 (G20) Foreign Ministers have thrown their weight behind South Africa’s Presidency priorities, which focus on sustainable development and debt sustainability for low-income countries among others.
Other priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency are strengthening disaster resilience; mobilising finance for a Just Energy Transition; and harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and development.
This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, who addressed the media at the conclusion of the first Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Friday.
The Minister said the two-day meeting which began on Thursday at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, was productive.
“Let me first express South Africa’s deep appreciation to you all for what has been a very productive First Foreign Ministers’ Meeting under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. I further thank the members of the G20 Troika, Brazil and the United States of America for their support and cooperation during our G20 Presidency,” said the Minister.
The meeting also outlined Task Force One’s focus on inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, employment, and reducing inequality.
Task Force Two focuses on food security, while Task Force Three addresses artificial intelligence, data, governance, and sustainable development innovation.
“Furthermore, we have proposed the additional initiatives – the review of the work of the G20, a cost of capital review, a broadened compact with Africa 2.0, and an initiative on critical minerals,” said the Minister.
South Africa also took note of the fruitful discussions and inputs on the various priorities and high-level deliverables which will enrich various streams of work during 2025.
“We can assure you that all the views expressed will be considered as we progress with our work during this year. We look forward to the active participation and contributions of all your delegations,” the Minister added.
He said the Ministers reaffirmed G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation.
The gathering also stressed the G20’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the need for urgent action to accelerate efforts to reaffirm the group’s strong commitment to the SDGs in line with South Africa's theme of “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”.
The leaders also noted the impact of ongoing conflicts on economic development and the attainment of SDGs, with a focus on sustainable investments in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
“Concerning the ongoing conflicts and wars in Africa, the Middle East and Europe, the meeting reiterated that all states must act in a manner consistent with the Purposes and Principles of the UN [United Nations] Charter.”
Guided by international law, Lamola announced that there was an agreement to support all efforts towards a just peace in Ukraine, Palestine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other major conflicts around the globe.
The leaders also touched on the importance of elevating African voices in the G20 and addressing pressing global challenges.
READ | SA expresses concern over conflict situations
The Minister also underscored the need to reform the international system of global governance, inclusive of the international financial architecture, the multilateral trading system, and the multilateral development banks.
The meeting “further stressed the need to reform the United Nations to make it fit for purpose and relevant to the current international reality. This includes the Security Council.”
Also under discussion was the importance of multilateralism, the need for the reform of the UN and the upcoming Financing for Development Conference in Seville, Spain and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP) in Belém, Brazil.
“South Africa undertook to present a four-stage roadmap of this proposed G20 review, including a briefing on the proposed approach and survey methodology which will involve the participation of G20 members, guest countries and invited stakeholders.”
According to the Minister, the final report will be presented for adoption at the final G20 Sherpa meeting taking place from 16 to 19 November 2025.
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the opening of the meeting on Thursday where he urged global leaders to embrace inclusivity, cooperation and reform as South Africa steers the Presidency of the G20 for the first time.
READ | Call for global solidarity at G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
– SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 18:22
45 views
ConCourt blocks Mphaphuli Consulting’s application in R76 million case
The Constitutional Court has dismissed an application for direct access brought by Mphaphuli Consulting in a matter relating to the review of an investigation report in the electrification of Limpopo villages in the Greater Tubatse Municipality.
The electrification project, dubbed Operation Mabone, was investigated by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
The investigation probed allegations that the company – owned by Lufuno Mphaphuli – overcharged the Greater Tubatse Local Municipality (now known as Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality) by approximately R76 million during an electrification project in 2013.
“In refusing the application, the Constitutional Court…concluded that the matter had already been decided to the extent that the relief sought was substantially the same relief sought in the previous applications to the same Court.
“Furthermore, the Constitutional Court concluded that no case has been made for direct access on the remaining issues. This judgement permanently blocks Mphaphuli Consulting from litigating the same issues with the same parties at any South African court,” the SIU said in a statement.
In litigation
In June last year, the Constitutional Court dismissed Mphaphuli’s application to appeal a High Court order to have the unit’s report on Operation Mabone reviewed and set aside.
The SIU, based on the investigation, had approached the filed a civil claim in the Limpopo High Court in 2017 to recover the financial losses incurred by the municipality following the investigation's findings.
“In response, Mphaphuli Consulting brought an application to review and set aside the SIU report and to seek an order compelling the SIU to stop all steps taken against the engineering company, which emanated from the SIU’s investigation.
“In March 2022, the Limpopo High Court dismissed the application with costs. In August 2023, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the application with costs. The SIU will pursue the legal fees Mphaphuli Consulting owes for these court proceedings and other related legal processes,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 14:33
60 views
The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) takes the Identification of Engineering Work (IDoEW) Roadshow to Limpopo on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. The consultative engagements seek to ensure that any persons conducting engineering work as well members of the public who use the services of engineering practitioners are informed and consulted on the on the …
Friday, 21 February 2025: Eskom confirms that loadshedding remains suspended, supported by a stable power system and adequate emergency reserves. This progress underscores the success of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan in improving generation capacity and maintaining a reliable electricity supply. From 1 April 2024 to 20 February 2025, loadshedding was suspended for 323 days...
When it comes to selling jewellery, many people turn to cash as a quick and easy solution. Whether you’re looking to clear out your jewellery box, upgrade your collection, or need some extra money, selling jewellery for cash is a practical option. However, to ensure you get a fair price for your items, it’s important …
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) launched the ‘Excellence in Performance Caps’ as part of the domestic T20 Challenge this season, and...
Discussion papers on review of Criminal Procedure Act open
Deputy Ministers in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster have welcomed the publication of the discussion papers on the review of the Criminal Procedure Act, released by the South African Law Reform Commission.
The review seeks to address systemic challenges in the Act, particularly in relation to provisions that deal with arrest, bail, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and victim participation in the criminal justice process.
On Thursday, the South African Law Reform Commission, released at least four discussion papers covering the pre-trial stage on:
At the release of the discussion papers, Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel spoke on the need to transform the justice system.
“We must transform our criminal justice system, including the Criminal Procedure Act, to be more effective, efficient, integrated, victim-cantered and in keeping with the Constitution.
“We must ensure that we generate well-informed, evidence-based dialogue and discussion through national dialogue with the widest participation by practitioners, experts, academics - and most importantly, the people of South Africa cries and concerns raised on their right to be safe and feel safe.
“[The released documents] are only discussion papers produced by the Advisory Committee and released by the Law Reform Commission to engender public debate and discussion and to solicit views and inputs,” Nel said.
The review of the Criminal Procedure Act was initiated in November 2023 by former Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola and seeks to identify and resolve systemic challenges in the Act.
An advisory committee of experts led by former Judge President of Mpumalanga Justice Francis Legodi was then formulated to advise the Law Reform Commission on the review.
The Justice department said members of the public are encouraged to comment on the discussion documents which are available at https://www.justice.gov.za/salrc/dpapers.htm
“Workshops in the provinces will focus on engaging grassroots communities to get their views on the proposed recommendations.
“Submissions will be studied and considered to refine the final recommendations informed by the experiences of citizens, legal practitioners, academia,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:33
235 views
Cabinet commends police efforts to combat illegal mining
Cabinet has commended the South African Police Service efforts to combat illegal mining through Operation Vala Umgodi, which has resulted in over 18 000 arrests since December 2023.
Cabinet highlighted that about 1 700 illegal miners were arrested from August 2024 in Stilfontein.
“The [arrests] include the seizure of 458 firearms, 12 000 rounds of ammunition, 283 trucks, 303 vehicles and 84 big machineries from illegal mining. R5 million in cash and uncut diamonds worth R32 million were also seized,” Cabinet said in a statement on Friday, following a Cabinet meeting, held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on 29 January 2025.
Cabinet also welcomed ongoing efforts by law-enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal mining, as Operation Vala Umgodi is rolled out to various parts of the country.
Cabinet further commended the arrest of four police officers suspected of aiding the escape of illegal mining kingpin, Neo James Tsoaeli, also known as ‘Tiger’.
It emphasised that police officers must always maintain the highest standards of professional ethics and remain beyond reproach.
“Cabinet calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure that those involved in such corrupt activities are held accountable and get the harshest possible sentence,” Cabinet said.
Operation Vala Umgodi is a multidisciplinary initiative focused on combating illicit mining activities that threaten South Africa's vital mineral resources. The operation also plays a key role in addressing various other criminal activities, providing crucial support to operational members at both district and provincial levels. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:38
166 views
The transportation sector is one of the fastest-growing contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for 30% of global energy demand and 23% of direct CO2 emissions in 2019. Road transport, particularly freight, is a major source of these emissions, with the global vehicle fleet expected to more than double by 2050, including a large …
Cabinet commends Class of 2024 for impressive results
Cabinet has commended the Class of 2024 for achieving the highest matric pass rate since the advent of democracy in 1994.
The National Senior Certificate (NSC) results saw an impressive 87.3% pass rate, marking a significant 4.4% increase from the previous year.
A total of 615 429 learners successfully passed the NSC examinations, with nearly half of those who sat for the exams obtaining a Bachelor pass, granting them access to higher education institutions. Additionally, close to 320 000 distinctions were achieved, highlighting the academic excellence of the matriculants.
Government lauded the results as a significant milestone in the country’s education sector, emphasising that the achievements of the Class of 2024 reflect the strides made in improving the quality of education in South Africa.
These results coincide with the country’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, symbolising the ongoing efforts to dismantle the remnants of apartheid-era educational disparities.
“The achievements of the Class of 2024 are a clear demonstration of the progress we have made as we commemorate 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy. They also provide proof that we are reversing apartheid’s planned legacy of intergenerational indignity, disadvantage and poverty for the majority of South Africans," Cabinet said in a statement on Friday.
South Africa's education system has undergone significant reforms since 1994, with the government implementing policies aimed at improving access to quality education for all learners.
Under the National Development Plan (NDP), education remains a key pillar in addressing inequality and fostering economic growth.
Over the years, interventions such as the provision of no-fee schools, the school nutrition program, improved infrastructure, and curriculum enhancements have contributed to the steady improvement in matric results.
The increased focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, teacher training programs, and digital learning initiatives has also played a crucial role in raising learner performance.
Despite these successes, challenges remain, including resource disparities between urban and rural schools, socio-economic factors affecting learner performance, and the need to further enhance post-matric opportunities.
However, the Class of 2024’s results demonstrate resilience and a positive trajectory for the country’s education system.
Government has previously urged learners who did not pass to explore alternative pathways such as the Second Chance Matric Programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to ensure they remain within the education and skills development pipeline. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 12:00
30 views
SA expresses concern over conflict situations
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has emphasised that military solutions are ineffective in resolving conflicts.
He called on the Group of 20 (G20) nations to persist in advocating for peaceful resolutions through negotiation and dialogue.
In addition, Lamola has expressed South Africa’s growing concern over the deteriorating conflict situations in various regions of Africa, particularly highlighting the challenges in Sudan and the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
South Africa recently lost 14 brave soldiers at the hands of the M23 as fighting in the Goma region escalated.
The rebel group fought intensely against the Congolese armed forces, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from 23 to 27 January during M23’s advance on Sake and Goma.
The soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.
“We call on the support of the G20 in our quest to silence the guns in Africa for the attainment of inclusive development and prosperity.”
Lamola addressed the attendees at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Nasrec, Johannesburg, while President Cyril Ramaphosa officially opened the gathering.
He also took the time to note “satisfaction” with the current efforts being made on various fronts to end the devastating conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine.
“We should all play our part in ensuring the success of these ongoing initiatives. We should also recommit to advancing the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons.”
He urged the group to focus on addressing critical debt sustainability weaknesses in the international debt system, including high financing costs and prioritising debt service payments over essential development needs, to mitigate the negative impacts of debt distress.
“Building on G20 initiatives undertaken in recent years, we should advance sustainable solutions to tackle high structural deficits and liquidity challenges and extend debt relief to developing economies.”
He encouraged other Ministers to back South Africa’s approach to geo-political issues, recommending discussions only among Sherpas, Foreign Ministers, and leaders to develop consensus-based strategies for peace and human development.
“We also like to caution against focusing exclusively on one conflict situation, to the exclusion of others, especially on the African continent, as has been the practice in the recent past.”
He reminded leaders that the United Nations (UN) remains the appropriate forum for maintaining peace and security, supported by other institutions of global governance.
“We hope that this group continues to play a constructive role in supporting relevant regional and international bodies, such as the AU [African Union], which are central to achieving sustainable development and that the core mandate of the G20 should remain that of promoting economic growth and development.”
Lamola believes that widening geopolitical divisions are at the centre of the crisis.
These divisions, he stressed, have contributed to fostering a climate of distrust, which threatens to unravel the progress made in addressing pressing global challenges such as deepening poverty, resolving armed conflict, climate change, pandemics, and nuclear proliferation.
He said South Africa is committed to collaborating with all G20 members to advance the forum’s work and to play a bridge-building role while preserving the group’s unity during its Presidency.
“It is our firm view that the unity of the group will be key to reaching consensus on this Presidency’s priorities and deliverables,” Lamola added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:35
42 views
The SunBet Arena in Pretoria is a hive of activity as Mahindra South Africa finalises preparations for its historic Fusion Fest this Saturday. The Mahindra Fusion Fest is a truly unique event that celebrates the youthful energy of the ‘Vibrant Rainbow Nation’ through music, fashion, and art by fusing music, fashion, and art into a …
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility!
Cabinet has urged all road users to drive responsibly and for traffic officials to hold transgressors of the rules of the road to account.
This comes after the preliminary statistics for the 2024/25 Festive Season Road Safety campaign showed that road fatalities, which are often a result of human behaviour, continue to plague the country.
“A total of 87% of crashes over the festive period were a result of human behaviour, which included hit-and-runs, jay-walking, fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speeding, drunken driving and reckless overtaking.
“These tragic road accidents ruin innocent lives, shatter families and cost our economy billions of rands a year,” Cabinet said in a statement released on Friday.
The statement was released after the Cabinet meeting of Wednesday, 12 February 2025 and the Special Cabinet meeting of Wednesday, 29 January 2025. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:57
72 views
Cabinet supports bold vision outlined by President's SONA
Cabinet has called on all sectors of society to support the initiatives announced by the President Cyril Ramaphosa during his State of the Nation address earlier this month.
Cabinet said this in a statement on Friday following a Cabinet meeting held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on 29 January 2025.
“Cabinet calls on all sectors of society to support the initiatives announced by the President in his 2025 SONA and partner with government as we set our nation on a trajectory for the year ahead,” Cabinet said in a statement.
Cabinet also expressed its support for the bold vision of creating a nation where all South Africans share in its prosperity and opportunities, as outlined by President Ramaphosa.
“The President called on all South Africans to unite in action to reignite our collective vision and shared passion to build a South Africa that works for everyone. Through the planned National Dialogue, we will chart our nation’s course and forge a common vision for our country’s future,” Cabinet said.
The statement highlighted that the new Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) guides government’s initiatives to create a more inclusive country that lives up to the commitments of the Government of National Unity.
The MDTP aims, among others, to reduce unemployment, poverty and the rising cost of living as well as combat crime and corruption.
“The massive R940 billion investment drive announced by President Ramaphosa in new infrastructure and the upgrading of existing infrastructure over the next three years, puts infrastructure development at the heart of our country’s economic growth and job creation,” Cabinet said.
The address outlined a clear path to tackle the challenges experienced at local municipalities, particularly in the maintenance of essential infrastructure. It also detailed intensive interventions to deal with the country’s water challenges, including the expansion of water infrastructure by investing R23 billion into seven large water infrastructure projects.
President Ramaphosa outlined government’s commitment to support the well-being of South Africans through various social support initiatives in health, education, social protection, community development and public employment programmes, with around 60 percent of our national budget spent on the social wage.
“The President affirmed our nation’s sovereignty and constitutional democracy, and South Africa’s position to advance the well-being of humanity, and those around the world who continue to experience colonialism and oppression,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za
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Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:34
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