Play Commemorates 10th Anniversary of Rhodes Must Fall Movement
A reimagined version of the popular 2016 “The Fall” play is being staged at Joburg’s The Market Theatre until 4 May
A reimagined version of the popular 2016 “The Fall” play is being staged at Joburg’s The Market Theatre until 4 May
Located within the vast 1,300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct on the KZN South Coast, the mature lifestyle estate of Renishaw Hills has been developed with a strong focus on conservation. This sustainable approach has drastically enhanced the region’s biodiversity, with resident ‘citizen scientists’ identifying the rare Sable Cruiser dragonfly – among many other unique species. “Renishaw …
Monday, 14 April 2025: Exxaro Resources and Eskom today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that focuses on collaboration on strategic initiatives, research, and projects in the areas of Carbon Emissions Reduction, Air Quality and Just Transition. This is consistent with South Africa’s commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, international environmental standards,...
The Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association (SAPPMA) has issued an urgent warning to the plastic pipe industry, cautioning against the growing and dangerous trend of manufacturing HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) pressure pipes using recycled materials from external sources. Jan Venter, CEO of SAPPMA, cautions that this practice, which violates both international and national standards (ISO/SANS …
Six to appear in court for various crimes
Six suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges of the possession of unlicensed firearms, ammunition and drugs, say Gauteng police.
This comes after members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) executed a series of successful operations on Friday night leading to multiple arrests and significant seizures of illegal firearms, ammunition and drugs in Westbury and Eldorado Park.
“During routine foot patrols in Westbury, AGU members arrested a 31-year-old male for possession of an unlicensed firearm and 15 live rounds of ammunition. In a separate incident on the same patrol, a 26-year-old male was also arrested for possessing an unlicensed firearm and two live rounds of ammunition. Both arrests underscore the AGU's relentless commitment to maintaining safety in our communities,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The AGU also received a tip-off regarding drug activities at a residence along Steytler Street in Westbury. Upon arrival, the AGU team found a 52-year-old female in possession of 14 tablets and four halves of suspected mandrax drugs, leading to her arrest for possession of drugs.
In the early hours on Saturday, AGU members acted on information regarding a male with an unlicensed firearm along Sneeuberg Street, Extension 2, in Eldorado Park. They gained entry to a B-section flat and arrested a man found with an unlicensed firearm and eight live rounds of ammunition.
Additionally, another suspect at the same location in a different flat, was apprehended for possessing 20 bags containing substances suspected to be khat.
At approximately 02:45, the AGU team conducted another operation at the B-section flats, arresting a male suspect for possession of an unlicensed firearm and 16 live rounds of ammunition, following a tip-off.
The team was praised for their hard work which resulted in the confiscation of four unlicensed firearms, 41 live rounds of ammunition and two drug arrests with significant quantities of suspected drugs.
“The AGU remains steadfast in its mission to combat crime and protect our communities, urging residents to continue providing valuable information to support these efforts,” said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 09:49
497 views
GOOD Statement by Brett Herron ,GOOD Secretary-General 14 April 2025 The GOOD Party welcomes today’s long-awaited momentum in the quest to hold apartheid-era criminals accountable. The reopening of two high profile inquests, and the decision by the High Court that former policemen must be prosecuted for crimes against humanity, are critical steps to address criminal […]
The post ACCOUNTABILITY FOR APARTHEID CRIMES: SMALL BUT IMPORTANT STEPS AGAINST CRIMINAL IMPUNITY appeared first on For Good.
Dear Editor There are 10 000 vacancies in the public healthcare system, with only 1 500 of these posts being advertised. Access to public healthcare remains severely compromised by 10 000 vacancies across the public healthcare system. Without enough doctors, nurses, and technicians it is every South African who needs critical medical care in public …
Call to monitor rented spaces
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu says municipalities must rise to the occasion and be aware of the activities taking place in the spaces they rent out.
The Minister’s comments come as he visited various drug laboratories and a warehouse which were discovered and shut down by the Hawks in Mpumalanga.
“The spaces where this operation was carried out (industrial and residential areas) are indicative that municipalities have to rise to the occasion and be aware of the activities which take place in relation to the spaces they rent out,” the Minister said following his visit to the sites on Sunday.
READ | Police Minister to visit Mpumalanga drug labs following arrests
The visit follows an operation carried out by a team comprising of among others, the Hawks in Secunda, Standerton K9, and the Standerton Crime Intelligence on 4 April.
“A search warrant was obtained and large quantities of liquid chemicals in drums, powder chemicals in sacks, machinery and equipment were found. It was confirmed that the building was used as a storage facility for illicit drug producing material,” the Minister said.
Three Mozambican nationals found at the scene were arrested; a fourth suspect who is also a Mozambican national was also arrested.
“All these individuals are illegal immigrants. Three vehicles were seized. Further investigation led us to a farm, where a clandestine drug lab was discovered, and a Mozambican couple was arrested - parents to one of the suspects arrested prior. Again, these individuals do not have the requisite papers to be in South Africa,” he said.
The combined value of items found was around R20 million.
All six suspects appearance in the Standerton Magistrate court on Monday, 07 April 2025.
Additionally, intelligence about two additional laboratories in the area were received. Search warrants were applied for and executed on 8 April 2025.
“The Investigation team comprising of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/Hawks) Secunda, SANEB [South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau] head office, Standerton K9, Standerton Crime Intelligence, and private security visited a farm and discovered it was empty and then proceeded to a residential address.
"A tablet pressing machine, a disassembled machine worth over R2 million, petrol generator and 20 litre buckets full of finished powder products valued at over R28 million were found,” said the Minister.
Two South African males were arrested while a third suspect, handed himself in. They appeared in the Standerton Magistrates Court on 10 April 2025.
Several luxury vehicles were seized, including a Mercedes Benz and an amount of R3 689 200 was found in the boot of the Mercedes Benz. A white Isuzu van was found at another address and is in police custody.
“All suspects have since appeared in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court; one suspect (South African) has been released but investigations are still underway. The eight suspects who are in custody will appear again for a formal bail hearing on the 25th of April 2025.
This whole operation is an indication that we need to increase our law enforcement capacity in order to achieve such results and more. This is one aspect which we as the SAPS [South African Police Service] are focused on,” the Minister explained.
He added that the police have prioritised tackling the drug trade and is looking at dismantling the entire value chain.
“Since August 2024, the SAPS have uncovered several clandestine drug laboratories, leading to significant seizures of illicit substances and manufacturing equipment.”
Among some of the drug busts made by police previously include the dismantling of a laboratory valued at R100 million was dismantled in Rietfontein, Tshwane, resulting in the arrest of a 39-year-old Mexican national in November last year.
In December 2024, a drug bust valued at R4.5 million was executed, uncovering machines used for drug production, though no suspects were found at the scene in Kibler Park, Johannesburg.
“The total estimated street value of the 800 kilograms of drugs that were destroyed on 7 March 2025 is in excess of R340 million. About a year ago, drugs worth R550 million were destroyed. In three years, various types of drugs worth R5.2 billion have been destroyed.
“As the SAPS, we have a constitutional duty to ensure that all South Africans are and feel safe. Drugs have a negative impact on our communities. They have an impact on the crime levels, they destroy young lives and the health of those who consume them,” he said.-SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 11:48
315 views
Having safely arrived in Alicante, Spain from France on Sunday, the Springbok Women had a very productive first training session on Monday and according to Performance Coach, Swys de Bruin, “Operation Spain” is now officially underway. De Bruyn was happy with the energy and clarity at the team’s first hit-out for the weekend’s Test, to …

Volkswagen Motorsport’s Jonathan Mogotsi delivered a dominant performance to win the SATC SupaCup day at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit’s Blockbuster Extreme Festival by Coca-Cola on Saturday. Rookie Cup champion and Volkswagen Motorsport driver Judd Bertholdt meantime scored his maiden Astron Energy Polo Cup pole position in a sparkling effort on the day. “Jonathan Mogotsi …
The iconic Mustang Midlands Tour is set to rev its engines across the picturesque landscapes of South Africa from 30th April to 4th May 2025. Powered by MotorSport Promoters in partnership with Ford Lazarus, Motul, Maizey, Avery Dennison, and Nyala Paraiso, this extraordinary event invites Mustang owners and enthusiasts to undertake a thrilling journey uniting …
Vuyani Jarana appointed as G20 start-up engagement group
The Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, has announced the appointment of Vuyani Jarana as Chairperson for the Startup20 Engagement Group for South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency.
In a statement on Monday, the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) said it has been entrusted with leading South Africa’s Startup20 Engagement Group, one of the officially recognised G20 Engagement Groups.
As Chairperson, Jarana will lead Startup20’s strategic direction, appoint task force chairs, coordinate high-level meetings and events, and guide the development of the Startup20 Policy Communiqué, which will contribute to the official G20 Leaders’ Declaration.
The Minister also appointed 22 On Sloane as the Secretariat of the Startup20 Engagement Group for South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
Startup20 advocates for startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the G20 level, developing policy recommendations to advance the global startup ecosystem and foster inclusive innovation.
“To support this effort, 22 On Sloane has been appointed as the Country Secretariat for Startup20 during South Africa’s G20 Presidency. Twenty-two (22) On Sloane is Africa’s largest startup campus, playing a pivotal role in advancing the startup and MSME ecosystem across the continent.
“Twenty-two (22) On Sloane serves as headquarters for the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Africa, which is represented in 43 African countries, and as the country headquarters of GEN Global which has a presence in 180 countries globally aimed at supporting entrepreneurs to start and scale,” the department said.
As Secretariat, 22 On Sloane will support Jarana to coordinate and manage all Startup20 activities in South Africa, including stakeholder engagements, task force operations, international collaboration efforts, policy drafting, and logistical delivery of the Startup20 agenda.
The organisation will also facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues and policy consultations to ensure that Africa’s entrepreneurial voice is firmly embedded in the ensuing global conversations.
According to the department, Jarana brings a wealth of experience to this crucial role, with more than 25 years of leadership in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.
A seasoned business transformation leader, Jarana previously served as Group Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer of Vodacom Business within the Vodacom Group.
He also held the role of Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, where he spearheaded critical restructuring efforts.
Currently he is the Founder and CEO of Ilitha Telecommunications, a company dedicated to delivering superfast, affordable broadband to underserved peri-urban and rural communities.
He also serves as Chairperson of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), a key institution driving South Africa’s scientific, industrial, and technological innovation agenda.
“His extensive experience and expertise will be invaluable in driving our efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in Africa. He is a respected and seasoned business leader whom I am confident will lead the Startup20 Engagement Group with dedication and focus, ensuring that this serves as a legacy for our country and the ecosystem,” the Minister said.
The G20 is an international forum of both developing and developed countries, which seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced on 1 December 2024 and will run until 30 November 2025. It is taking place under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.” - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 15:03
57 views
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) shares the frustration of Centurion residents who have been without power since 4 April after a fire at the Brakfontein substation in Rooihuiskraal. Violence, however, will not solve the problem. On the contrary, it will only delay repairs to the substation. Power has been restored so some parts, Mall@Reds, […]
The post Residents in parts of Centurion still without power appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Over 1000 teachers appointed to strengthen teaching capacity
The KwaZulu-Natal Education Department has successfully appointed over 1000 teachers to ensure that no classroom is without a qualified teacher.
Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka said the department had appointed 1 530 Post Level 1 teachers between January and April 2025.
Also, of the 737 Post Level 1 positions advertised in September 2024, the majority were filled by the end of March 2025.
The posts became vacant due to attrition, including retirements, deaths, promotions and resignations.
The MEC highlighted that most of the vacancies were in critical subject areas, including Mathematics, Mathematics Literacy, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, technical subjects and other newly-introduced subjects.
“This achievement underscores our commitment to providing quality education to learners across the province of KwaZulu-Natal. The filling of these critical posts is a significant milestone for the department, as it will enable us to improve the teacher-to-learner ratio, enhance teaching and learning, and ultimately improve learner outcomes,” Hlomuka said.
He added that the achievement was a testament to the department’s dedication to ensuring that learners receive consistent and quality education.
The MEC expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the process, including teachers’ unions, and the broader education community.
“Their tireless efforts and commitment to the education sector have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education is committed to continuing its efforts to improve the quality of education in the province," Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 12:01
168 views
Jonas pledges to do his best to strengthen US-SA ties as Special Envoy
Former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas has pledged to do his utmost as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy to the United States (US) to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the US.
This follows the President’s announcement on Monday of Jonas’s appointment as his Special Envoy to the United States, where he will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of South Africa.
“I would like to thank President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting me with this important but challenging role. I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the United States.
“I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the United States,” he said in a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
The former Deputy Minister acknowledged the challenges ahead due to recent global developments.
“I am fully cognisant of the difficulties that lie ahead, considering recent global developments. However, I believe that areas of commonality and mutual interest could be embraced to reaffirm the long-standing ties between our two countries.
“There are no quick fixes in such a complex situation. I appeal that, in the national interest, South Africans exercise patience and allow us time and space to engage fully with different stakeholders in the United States and South Africa.”
Jonas indicated that any updates regarding his work would be communicated through the Presidency and DIRCO.
The President has described Jonas as an eminent South African leader who served as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys that he appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa.
As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, the President said Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role.
Jonas currently holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as Special Envoy. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 13:42
76 views
Years later the pool remains incomplete and a symbol of municipal failure
GOOD Statement by Brett Herron ,GOOD Secretary-General 14 April 2025 The appointment of a new Special Envoy to the United States, following the expulsion of former Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, was always going to be a significant decision. As GOOD, we welcome President Ramaphosa’s appointment of former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas, a choice that reflects […]
The post GOOD WELCOMES JONAS APPOINTMENT, INTEGRITY MEETS DIPLOMACY appeared first on For Good.
Bloemhof Dam water outflows reduced
Water outflows at Bloemhof Dam have been reduced, says the Department of Water and Sanitation, while the five sluice gates at the Vaal Dam remain open to manage the inflows of water into the dam.
The dapertment said the outflows at Bloemhof Dam were decreased as the dam’s water levels subsided to 104.96%.
The water releases at the Bloemhof dam were reduced from 2 100 to 1900 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) at 12pm on Sunday.
The water outflows decrease follows Saturday’s reduction from 2500 mᵌ/s.
“These adjustments are necessary to manage the sustained high inflows and ensure safe operation of the dam.”
Meanwhile, at the Vaal Dam, the water levels have slightly dropped from Saturday’s 115.43% to 114.38% on Sunday, and the inflows from the upper catchment are at 877.38 mᵌ/s.
“The five sluice gates remain open, with a discharge of 813.380 mᵌ/s to manage the water levels at the dam. The controlled water releases at both the dams have led to overtopping of riverbanks downstream, resulting in flooding that has affected settlements that are in the lower-lying areas within the 1 in 100-year floodline,” the department said in a statement on Sunday.
The department urged people living within the floodline of the Vaal River downstream of the Vaal and Bloemhof Dams, who have been evacuated, to continue to avoid the flooded areas.
The department said it continues to monitor inflow water levels in the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), to ensure that necessary precautions are in place, in line with dam safety standards and hydrological monitoring systems to safeguard infrastructure and attenuate flood conditions.
“As part of the dam safety protocols, sluice gates are opened when dams breach the full capacity mark, to prevent the water resource infrastructure from failing as it may lead to a dam bursting and causing a disaster of unimaginable magnitude.
“The department is therefore implementing these necessary controlled water releases at the dams as part of dam safety precautions to safeguard the infrastructure and protect human life,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 12:54
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By Tom Fels, Animarem We live in a time of stark contrasts, with great economic uncertainty, unprecedented wealth accumulation and radical technological advances, whilst at the same moment inequality is deepening, the climate crisis is worsening, and environmental degradation is pushing ecosystems to the brink. For Africa, the stakes are particularly high. As the continent …
President Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas, as his Special Envoy to the United States.
In his new role, Jonas will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of South Africa.
“In this capacity, Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with US government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Monday.
The Head of State described Jonas as an eminent South African leader, who served as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys that he appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa.
“As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. Concurrently, he holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as my Special Envoy,” the President said.
In addition, the President believes that this appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests.
“For decades, South Africa and the United States of America have maintained a historical and strategic relationship. In the interest of our country, our region and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades based on mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty and benefit for our respective peoples,” he added.
Meanwhile, a delegation of senior officials, led by South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Sherpa and the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Zane Dangor, recently met with United States officials to clarify the country’s expropriation and equity laws.
During the visit, the delegation engaged with their counterparts in Washington, including senior officials at the White House and the State Department, to address key bilateral priorities. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 12:06
21 views

Johannesburg, 14 April 2025 – The Astron Energy Polo Cup delivered another day of multiple winners, thrills and drama at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit’s Blockbuster Extreme Festival presented by Coca-Cola on Saturday. Young lady racer Tyler Robinson stood up to deliver a spectacular performance with pole position and the opening race win. Title rivals, …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) is fighting for answers as R1 billion plowed into 1 Military Hospital has vanished, and there is corruption going unchecked. In the DA’s fight for answers we welcome the decision by Parliament’s Joint Standing Committee on Defence to bring forward the crucial briefing by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) …
Establishment of Eskom’s renewable energy business unit welcomed
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed Eskom’s recent issuance of a tender to establish a separate renewable energy business unit.
“This significant step reflects Eskom’s dedication to accelerating renewable energy deployment and supporting South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, consistent with the nation’s Just Energy Transition (JET) objectives and commitments under the Paris Agreement,” the Minister said on Monday.
On 31 March 2025, the Minister granted conditional emissions exemptions to Eskom’s coal-fired power stations, underscoring the urgent need for prioritisation of renewable energy integration.
“The establishment of this independent subsidiary, structured to operate with agility and encourage public-private partnerships, directly addresses those conditions.
“It positions Eskom to capitalise on South Africa’s abundant solar and wind resources, enhance competitiveness, and secure green financing, while contributing to improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions,” George said.
He acknowledged Eskom’s proactive approach and called for a transparent, competitive, and inclusive tender process that fosters opportunities for local and international expertise.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment will closely monitor the initiative’s progress to ensure alignment with South Africa’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the 2050 net-zero emissions target, as well as the stringent conditions imposed on Eskom on 31 March 2025 that support compliance with the Minimum Emissions Standards (MES).
The Minister further encouraged Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and the private sector to actively participate, driving innovation and investment to bolster renewable energy capacity.
“Through collective effort, South Africa can build a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable energy sector that upholds the constitutional mandate to protect the health and well-being of all its citizens,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 11:28
63 views
President Ramaphosa to undertake an oversight visit to the Eastern Cape
President Cyril Ramaphosa will this week undertake an oversight visit to the Eastern Cape province where he will engage with the Provincial Executive Committee and receive a briefing on the Port of Ngqura.
The President’s programme will commence on Tuesday with a briefing by the Transnet leadership on the port which is one of South Africa’s newest deep-water ports, designed for high-efficiency container handling and large vessels.
It is also strategically aligned with the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and positioned as a key transshipment hub for Southern Africa.
“During the visit, the President will receive an update on plans to improve operational efficiencies at the port and projects currently underway,” the Presidency said in a statement.
On Wednesday, the President and Cabinet will meet with Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane and his executive council to discuss conditions and opportunities in the province as part of strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation.
“The national and provincial executives will discuss various approaches to improving service delivery at local government level,” the Presidency said.
The President’s visit will seek to tighten alignment between provincial priorities and those of the 7th Administration, in line with the joined-up development approach adopted by government in the District Development Model.
This visit will be the fifth engagement between the national executive and provincial governments following recent interactions between the President and the provincial governments of Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Gauteng.
President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Ministers and Deputy Ministers. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 10:01
234 views
