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The South African Government strongly condemns the attacks perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces on 9 October 2025 in El Fasher, North Darfur on a hospital and displacement centre killing at least 20 people. These assaults on civilian infrastructure have resulted in a tragic loss of innocent lives, severe injuries, displacement, and immense human suffering.

These actions have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis. We are deeply alarmed that thousands of civilians, including women and children, remain trapped by the fighting. The sustained attacks since September on places of worship and the central market represent a grave violation of international law.

South Africa stands in solidarity with the people of Sudan, who continue to bear the brunt of this conflict.

We remind all parties of their non-negotiable obligations under international law including international humanitarian law. There must be no impunity for serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. The protection of civilians and the safeguarding of essential infrastructure are paramount.

We therefore call for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access, and the safe evacuation of civilians from active conflict zones.

Minister Ronald Lamola reiterates that the only sustainable solution is a negotiated, inclusive, and Sudanese-owned political dialogue. We urge regional and international actors, including the African Union, the United Nations, and IGAD, to intensify efforts to broker a ceasefire and galvanise support for a just political settlement.

South Africa remains ready to support all efforts aimed at ending the suffering of the Sudanese people.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

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The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with deep concern the recent political developments in the Republic of Madagascar. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life and the destruction of property that has occurred.

South Africa calls for calm and restraint from all actors and urges them to do everything necessary to avoid any further action that may escalate tensions or worsen the humanitarian situation.

We strongly call upon all parties to respect the democratic process and constitutional order. It is imperative that any disputes be resolved peacefully through inclusive dialogue, cooperation, and established legal mechanisms.

In accordance with the Lomé declaration, South Africa does not support unconstitutional changes of government.

We wish to recall that regional conflict resolution mechanisms remain at the disposal of the people of Madagascar to facilitate dialogue and a peaceful way forward.

Minister Lamola reaffirms South Africa's commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution that upholds the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and sustainable development for the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

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The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has concluded a highly successful week-long oversight visit to the Northern Cape Province.

The oversight visit focused on several key issues, including compliance with Social and Labour Plans (SLPs) by Asman Manganese (Black Rock Operation), South32, and Ekapa Mining; illegal mining of green fluorite and rose quartz gemstones in Vredesvallei and Riemvasmaak; as well as a dispute over sugilite mining between Assmang and PP Gemstone Mining and Exporting (Pty) Ltd.

The committee also engaged with stakeholders such as the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO), traditional leaders, and community mining forums in the John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) District, as well as artisanal and small-scale miners in the Frances Baard District. These engagements enabled the committee to provide high-level interventions in response to challenges raised by stakeholders.

Among the committee's interventions was a call for an immediate workshop on mining permit applications for the communities of Vredesvallei and Riemvasmaak, along with traditional leaders in the JTG District. Assmang and South32 also committed to working towards an amicable resolution with PP Gemstone Mining and SANCO respectively.

As the committee awaits the tabling of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Bill, it welcomed the opportunity to hear first-hand how certain provisions in the current Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act No. 28 of 2002) serve as barriers for aspiring artisanal and small-scale miners.

It became clear during engagements that specific sections of the Act — particularly Sections 41, 54, and 102 — require urgent review to create a more enabling environment for artisanal and small-scale mining.

The committee highlighted the success of artisanal mining initiatives in the Frances Baard District as a positive case study. It therefore advocated for the review of all fees associated with artisanal and small-scale mining permit applications. Furthermore, the committee proposed the establishment of an independent body to monitor SLP compliance.

The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Mikateko Mahlaule, commended all stakeholders for their constructive engagement and assured them that their inputs would be considered in the committee's oversight report and recommendations. Once adopted by the National Assembly, he said these recommendations will become binding on the relevant department.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

 APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications and news distribution consultancy, has been selected by Emirates, one of the world's largest international airlines, as its public relations partner of record for Africa with immediate effect.

Under the partnership, APO Group will support Emirates by providing strategic counsel, integrated public relations, and stakeholder engagement in South Africa, Kenya, Tunisia, Uganda, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Congo, Guinea, Tanzania and Egypt. The collaboration is designed to reinforce Emirates' visibility in the region and ensure consistent, insight-led communications that support brand and commercial objectives.  

By leveraging APO Group's continent-wide network and expertise, Emirates will deepen its connection with pan-African audiences, local media, and industry partners. The appointment reflects Emirates' continued investment in the continent and its commitment to maintaining a strong and responsive communications presence. It also aligns closely with APO Group's mission of pioneering the future of communication and being the channel for Africa's voices. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.