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Red Ribbon Communications, a leading tech PR firm in South Africa, is proud to announce that Ida-Marié van der Merwe has been appointed to the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) Africa NextGen committee. The PRCA Africa NextGen group, since its launch in 2022, has been helping to empower emerging public relations talent across the …
Cost containment should not undermine service delivery - PSC
The Public Service Commission (PSC) says that while cost containment measures demonstrate fiscal discipline and prudent financial management, their implementation must be closely monitored to avoid inadvertently undermining service delivery.
“This is particularly crucial in essential sectors such as healthcare and education, where cuts to resources or funding could have far-reaching consequences for public well-being and long-term development,” said PSC Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya.
Addressing the media during the release of the commission’s Quarterly Bulletin titled: The Pulse of the Public Service for the period: 01 January to 31 March 2025, Gxoyiya said effective cost containment requires a balanced approach. This approach prioritises efficiency and savings without compromising the quality or accessibility of essential services.
“The PSC recognises the advantages of fiscal consolidation and cost containment, which include reduced waste in public finances and enhanced accountability,” the Commissioner said at Thursday’s briefing in Pretoria.
In addition, he said that excessive budget cuts could undermine the government's ability to fulfil its constitutional obligations.
“The PSC advocates for a balanced approach that combines financial prudence with investments in key areas essential for long-term growth and effective service delivery.
“The PSC remains committed to promoting constitutional values, advocating for equity and accountability, and ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and effectively for the benefit of all South Africans.”
Whistleblowers
Regarding strengthening whistleblower protection, Gxoyiya said a resolution was made for the establishment of the Whistleblower Protection House.
This hosting of the Whistleblowers’ Symposium emanated from the 2022 International Anti-Corruption Day celebrations which highlighted the challenges regarding the protection of whistleblowers and their families.
During the symposium, a resolution was made for the establishment of the protection house to support whistleblowers and to facilitate access to support, creation of awareness of whistleblowers’ plight, provide financial assistance, legal counsel and psychological support.
The protection of whistleblowers was identified as one of the high priority areas in the national anti-corruption agenda.
Gxoyiya said this initiative will require the amendment of the current legislation, adding that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is at an advanced stage in reviewing the Protected Disclosure Act. The Act provides procedures in terms of which any employee may disclose information relating to an offence or a malpractice in the workplace by his or her employer or fellow employees. The Act also provides for the protection of an employee, who made a disclosure in accordance with the procedures provided for by the Act, against any reprisals as a result of such a disclosure.
“The advent of democracy in South Africa promised a society that will be built on a human rights-based culture to ensure that the lives of ordinary South Africans are improved and protected.
“Section 195 of the Constitution outlines the basic Values and Principles governing public administration. These values should be the cornerstone upon which to build a public service that is ethical, responsible, responsive and accountable.
“Government and other role players agreed that corruption in South Africa and the killing of whistleblowers needs to be addressed collaboratively by all sectors of society as the efforts of whistleblowers contribute to building a capable, ethical and developmental Public Service that is responsive to the needs of the people,” Gxoyiya explained.
He added that the commission supports the initiatives of establishing the whistleblowers protection regime as it will enable the citizenry to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal.
“Fighting corruption is every one’s responsibility in the country. Active citizenship must take its rightful place in fighting against corruption and expose theft, fraud and maladministration through whistleblowing,” he said.
The commission has encouraged South Africans to report acts of corruption and maladministration anonymously through the National Anti-Corruption hotline on 0800 701 701 and by email at (complaints@opsc.gov.za).
Citizens can also do walk-ins at PSC offices nationwide where complainants can interact with professionals equipped to safeguard anonymous reporting. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 13:41
145 views
Full-back Wes Goosen will earn his 50th cap for Edinburgh Rugby tomorrow night when his side play host to the Emirates Lions in the EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16 at Hive Stadium (Friday 4 March, kick-off 8pm) – live on Premier Sports. The ever-present flyer reaches his half-century in the week he signed a …
Dear Editor Today, I filed papers in the Western Cape High Court to challenge the legality of the 2025/26 National Budget process. A VAT increase is set to come into effect on 1 May unless it is interdicted, and that is what the Democratic Alliance (DA) is doing. We are taking this fight to court …
In a bid to make our roads safer, the Western Cape Government will be offering free 10-point vehicle safety checks for all motorists ahead of the upcoming Easter holiday period. Motorists are encouraged to take advantage of this service, especially those planning long trips. This initiative forms part of the Western Cape Government’s ongoing commitment …
Dear Editor On the same day that ActionSA in Parliament voted to impose a VAT increase on already overburdened South Africans, their Tshwane mayor Nasiphi Moya held a press conference on the budget she is proposing for the city. Moya and ActionSA’s army of social media bots and influencers, which seem to outnumber their voters, …
A big Free State derby between the Toyota Cheetahs and NovaVit Griffons is one of the big games in the fifth round of the SA Cup, with a number of other intriguing matches lined up as the race for the top four qualification positions for the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division heats up. Defending champions …
What happened in Hong Kong stayed in Hong Kong and the Springbok Sevens squad arrived in Singapore this week with a fresh mind and effort, but also with a clear mission – to finish the regular HSBC SVNS season with an performance that will do justice to the team, country and the badge on their …
SA sends condolences to Thailand and Myanmar following earthquake
The South African Government has extended its heartfelt condolences to the people of Thailand and Myanmar following the devastating earthquake that has caused significant loss of life and extensive property damage.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), said the South African Embassy in Bangkok, is aware of 11 South African citizens affected by the earthquake and is rendering consular assistance to them.
Reports indicate that the death toll in Myanmar is expected to exceed 3 000, with 4 521 people injured and 441 missing.
In neighboring Thailand, the death toll from the earthquake rose to 21 on Tuesday, with hundreds of buildings affected.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, said South Africa stands in solidarity with the affected communities during this tragic time.
“The thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the families who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured. We commend the efforts of the emergency response teams and volunteers who are working tirelessly to provide relief and support to those in need,” Lamola said in a statement.
Lamola added that: “In this time of sorrow, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and support to the people of Thailand and Myanmar.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 09:47
368 views
It will be a case of do or die for the three South African teams featuring in the EPCR Challenge Cup playoffs this weekend, as defending champions, the Hollywoodbets Sharks, the Vodacom Bulls, and Emirates Lions spring back into action in Europe in the Round of 16, where quarter-final spots will be up for grabs. …
The mismanagement of several incomplete mega-housing projects in the Ekurhuleni Metro has to stop. The projects that were initiated with the promise of providing thousands of housing units to alleviate the severe housing need have failed miserably so far. One example is the Tembisa Extension 25 project where R371 million has already been spent, but […]
The post VF Plus demands accountability and transparency with mega-housing projects in Ekurhuleni appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Justice Minister requests comprehensive report on Omotoso acquittal
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, has invoked Section 33(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Act in relation to the acquittal of former rape and sexual assault accused Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho.
The three were acquitted by the Gqeberha High Court of 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, racketeering and human trafficking, on Wednesday.
“The Minister acknowledges the statement made by the NPA indicating that they will study the judgment. However, she has also, in accordance with section 33 (a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act, formally requested a comprehensive report from the National Director of Public Prosecutions to understand the factors that contributed to this outcome.
“Minister Kubayi remains resolute in her commitment to the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and reaffirms the government’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that perpetrators of GBVFs are held accountable,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.
In a stinging judgement, Judge Irma Schoeman noted that the prosecution’s cross-examination of the accused was “shallow and lacking the intention to uncover the truth” – leading to the acquittal as the prosecution did not prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.
“Minister Kubayi’s concern stems from apparent shortcomings in the prosecution’s handling of the case, resulting in a significant setback in the pursuit of justice for victims of gender-based violence and related crimes. The judge was scathing in her judgment, criticising the poor quality of the state's cross-examination.
“The Minister has emphasised the need for a strengthened and meticulous approach in prosecuting cases to prevent injustices,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 12:01
16 views
Ezra Mendel, on the behalf of the FW de Klerk Foundation’s Constitutional Advancement Programme, recently facilitated an impactful session with students of Rand Girls' High in Johannesburg.
The post FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION HOSTS CONSTITUTIONAL EDUCATION SESSION AT RAND GIRLS’ HIGH appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
GOOD Statement by Lawrence Troon ,GOOD Nelson Mandela Bay Councillor 03 April 2025 GOOD condemns the recent Nelson Mandela Bay council decision to write off 50% of Premium Precision’s debt, amounting to over R32.5 million. The decision raises serious concerns about fairness and transparency. It is GOOD’s belief that Premium Precision has the ability to […]
The post NELSON MANDELA BAY MUNICIPALITY: CONTROVERSIAL R32.5 MILLION WRITE-OFF NEEDS FULL INVESTIGATION appeared first on For Good.
Macpherson welcomes IDT board appointments
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson has welcomed the appointment of five new trustees to the Independent Development Trust (IDT).
“The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, welcomes the Master of the High Court’s appointment of five new trustees to the Independent Development Trust. The Minister has consequently written to the IDT board, now fully quorate for the first time in a year and a half, urging members to convene urgently to elect a chairperson among themselves to ensure optimal functioning of the agency,” said the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) in a statement on Wednesday.
The five newly appointed members to the board are Zimbini Hill, Jeffrey Mahachi, Raymond Nnaemeka Nkado, Nangamso Msuthukazi Matebese, and Bella Zoleka Mnanzana.
They join Matodzi Ratshimbilani and Derek Naidoo, whom the Minister previously appointed as his representatives to the board, as well as Mpilo Mbambisa, Lufuno Nevondwe, Karabo Siyila, and Prudence Mkhwanazi, who previously served on the board.
Macpherson said there has been allegations of corruption and governance issues at the IDT. The IDT is a Schedule 2 state-owned entity which manages the implementation and delivery of critically needed social infrastructure programmes on behalf of the government.
“Officials and I have worked tirelessly since then to uncover the truth and restore governance stability after months of the board operating without a quorum,” Macpherson said.
He also expressed his good wishes to the board “as they embark on the critical task of cleaning up the agency and restoring the IDT to its rightful position in delivering social infrastructure.”
He is also looking forward to the swift conclusion of the PwC independent investigation to ensure accountability, including potential criminal prosecution, where necessary. The investigation is around the circumstances of the awarding of a controversial R800 million Oxygen Plant tender awarded by the IDT.
READ | Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender
“The IDT has a crucial role in transforming South Africa into a construction site, thereby driving economic growth and, importantly, creating jobs. It is through the transparency and accountability that we have introduced at the department that we will be able to enhance service delivery and build a better South Africa,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:09
185 views
The stringent draft regulations for possessing and using firearms in South Africa’s private security industry will leave South Africans even more vulnerable to crime. South Africa’s private security industry is one of the largest in the world and the sole reason for this is the South African Police Service’s utter failure to protect the people […]
The post Draft regulations for firearm use by private security companies will leave South Africans even more vulnerable appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Government to launch R500m spaza shop support fund
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, will next Tuesday officially launch the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund, an initiative which was first announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in November 2024.
The fund, which will be jointly administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA), provides critical financial and non-financial support to township businesses, including community convenience stores and spaza shops.
The aim of the fund is to support South African owned township community convenience shops, including spaza shops, in order to increase their participation in the townships and rural areas’ retail trade sector.
“The opening of the applications for the fund marks another milestones in government’s efforts to stimulate the growth of the rural and township economy in the country, particularly by providing the necessary support to the convenience stores and spaza shops that are based in the townships and rural areas.
“Government recognises the important role that small businesses, including those operating in the rural areas and townships, can play in creating jobs, growing our economy and alleviating poverty,” Ndabeni said.
The fund provides various types of support including the initial purchase of stock via delivery channel partners, upgrading of building infrastructure, systems, refrigeration, shelving and security, as well as training programmes which includes Point of Sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety and business compliance.
Tau pointed out that the fund does not only support economic inclusion but also aligns with national priorities to formalise informal sectors, safeguard consumers and promote local production and said it is a holistic approach to revitalising township economies.
“Beyond individual support, the fund seeks to bolster the broader supply chain by fostering partnerships with local manufacturers, black industrialists and wholesalers.
“Through bulk purchasing arrangements and the promotion of locally produced goods, spaza shops will benefit from reduced costs and increased access to quality products,” Tau said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:31
31 views
Mineral-rich African countries are strengthening cooperation with global partners to optimize the mining value chain, leveraging investments to accelerate GDP growth and sustainable development. In recent years, the contribution of mining to the national fiscus has grown significantly across many nations, and looking ahead, this growth momentum is on track to continue as nations promote greater investment in mineral development.
Mali
The Malian government expects to collect $1.2 billion (apo-opa.co/41Uk6C6) in tax revenue from the mineral sector in Q1, 2025 alone. New developments such as Hummingbird Resources' Yanfolia project and Ganfeng Lithium's Goulamina mine coming online, the country's mining industry is set to expand even further. In 2023, the sector contributed approximately $1 billion to the economy, accounting for 21.5% of the national budget.
Malawi
Malawi is accelerating the rollout and monetization of mining projects under its Agriculture, Mining and Tourism strategy. The strategy focuses on boosting activities across these sectors, with goals including increase exports, job creation and greater investment. The World Bank (apo-opa.co/3E0bWyX) projects that the mining sector will contribute 12% to Malawi's GDP by 2027, generating $300 billion in export revenue between 2026 and 2040.
South Africa
South Africa's mining sector remains a major economic pillar, contributing 6% to the country's GDP in 2024 and generating R100 billion in national revenue. The industry provided 474,876 formal jobs, accounting for 4.5% of total employment, while exports reached R800 billion - representing 45% of total merchandise exports. With efforts to revitalize the gold industry and accelerate growth in critical minerals underway, the industry's contribution to economic stability continues.
Zambia
In Zambia, mining continues to play a critical role, contributing 20% of total revenue, 15% of formal employment and 70% of export earnings (apo-opa.co/447UXVS). A plan to increase annual copper production to 3.1 million tons by 2031, reallocate 1,000 repossessed mining licenses (apo-opa.co/3R1l2hS) and attract new investments by firms such as Barrick, Jubilee Metals and Tertiary Minerals, will further expand the sector's contribution to GDP.
Botswana
With a wealth of untapped mineral opportunities, Botswana seeks to leverage international partnerships to unlock additional value across its diamond sector. Diamond mining currently accounts for 4% of employment, 30% of GDP and 85% of total exports in the country. Going forward, greater investment across the industry will not only spur job creation but generate increased revenue from the industry.
Ghana
Ghana's mining industry is a significant contributor to the country's economy, with minerals such as gold, manganese, bauxite and diamonds generating substantial revenue for the economy. Gold accounted for 48.4% of GDP in 2024 while small-scale gold miners alone generated $5 billion in foreign earnings from gold exports in the same year. However, with a focus on improving industry regulation, formalizing small-scale mining operations and increasing investments, Ghana is on track to generate greater value from its mining sector.
As global demand for minerals rises - driven by the energy transition and the Fourth Industrial Revolution - the prospects for Africa's mining sector remain strong. The upcoming African Mining Week - taking place on October 1-3 in Cape Town - will highlight the sector's expanding role in economic growth, job creation and revenue generation. African Mining Week will explore how countries are leveraging mining revenues to drive economic growth and infrastructure development, ensuring the industry remains a cornerstone of Africa's economic future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
State Attorney to take steps to evict them
Trio appear in court for Fort Hare fraud case
Three suspects linked to a a multi-million-rand fraud and money laundering scheme at the University of Fort Hare have been granted bail, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) said.
The three were arrested in a breakthrough against corruption in the education sector by the East London based Serious Corruption Investigation team.
Former Acting Chief Financial Officer Simbongile Geqeza (41), former Head of Investigation and Vetting Isaac Plaartjies (57) and family friend Claudine Davids (44) appeared before the Alice Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday where they faced charges of fraud, money laundering and corruption.
“The arrests follow a detailed investigation by the Serious Corruption Investigation of the Hawks, which uncovered two fraudulent schemes that drained university funds amounting to more than R2 million,” the Hawks said in a statement on Wednesday.
The first case dates back to 2 September 2021, when Geqeza allegedly issued a fraudulent instruction to a bank, authorising an illegal payment of R1.4 million to a company with no legitimate ties to the university.
The scheme was exposed when university management noticed financial discrepancies and reported the matter to the Hawks.
“During the meticulous investigation conducted by the Hawks, a second fraudulent transaction was uncovered, involving a payment of R985,000 to a service provider for investigative services that were never rendered.
Furthermore, the service provider allegedly claimed to have assisted the Hawks during the university investigation, even though no services [were] being provided. This payment was allegedly facilitated by Plaartjies in collaboration with the claimant and the funds were allegedly funnelled to Davids.”
The suspects were arrested in different parts of the country during a coordinated Hawks operation on 1 April 2025.
The court granted each accused bail of R10,000.
“The case has been postponed to 4 April 2025 for further investigation.” – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:21
56 views
GOOD Speech by Brett Herron,GOOD Secretary-General & Member of the Western Cape Parliament 03 April 2025 *Note to editor: This speech was delivered by GOOD Secretary-General & Member of the Western Cape Parliament Brett Herron during today’s debate on the Western Cape Budget Today, we stand at a critical juncture. The 2025 Western Cape Budget […]
The post WESTERN CAPE BUDGET: MISGUIDED PRIORITIES NEGLECTING EDUCATION AND HEALTH FOR POLICING appeared first on For Good.
Legal, tax and business advisory conglomerate CLG (www.CLGGlobal.com) - formerly Centurion Law Group – has officially been approved as a Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) tax advisor by the CEMAC Standing Committee on Fiscal and Accounting Harmonization. CLG Tax and Legal will provide its full suite of tax services across all CEMAC member countries, supporting business and transactions across various strategic fields, including oil, gas and mining.
The tax certification not only comes as part of a broader restructuring of CLG's tax and legal services offerings, aimed at positioning the firm to better serve clients throughout the region with integrated solutions, but as the CEMAC region pursues accelerated growth across its strategic economic sectors. Specifically, the region's oil and gas sector is on track for rapid growth, as nations implement ambitious production targets. The Republic of Congo aims to produce 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2027; Gabon targets 220,000 bpd in the short-term; while Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon are scaling-up gas monetization. These targets require significant levels of investment and CLG stands ready to support transactions and broader economic growth.
Given the potential of the CEMAC region's natural and mineral resources, project developers and investors have already begun to expand their presence across the region. In the Republic of Congo, TotalEnergies is investing $600 million in the Moho Nord project; Trident Energy recently acquired stakes in the Nkossa, Nsoko II, Lianzi and Moho-Bilondo fields; while Perenco increased production at the Tchibouela II and Tchendo II fields following a $30 million investment. In Gabon, wildcat drilling is underway on Blocks BC-9 and BCD-10 while Perenco advances the $1 billion Cap Lopez LNG terminal toward a 2026 start. In Equatorial Guinea, the country is preparing to launch an oil and gas licensing round while Cameroon drives a gas-to-industry agenda. Further developments in Chad are underway, highlighting the region's potential as a major producing hub.
Stepping into this picture, CLG's accreditation will serve to further support current and future transactions. Over the past decade, CLG has significantly grown its tax practice, providing comprehensive tax advisory and compliance services to numerous multinational companies operating across Africa. This sustained growth reflects CLG's commitment to meeting the complex tax needs of investors and businesses on the continent, from corporate tax planning and regulatory compliance to cross-border taxation strategies.
“By bolstering our tax practice in the CEMAC region, CLG continues to establish itself as a one-stop-shop for investors in the region and across the continent. The CEMAC accreditation aligns with our strategy to support impactful transactions in Africa and we look forward to strengthening our presence across the continent,” stated Zion Adeoye, CEO and Managing Partner of CLG.
CLG already has a strong presence in Africa, with offices in South Africa, Nigeria, Mauritius, Ghana, the Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Namibia and South Sudan. The company caters to a diverse portfolio of multinational companies operating globally, delivering bespoke solutions tailored to address the unique challenges and complexities faced by clients in different industries. CLG's expertise covers energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture and ESG, to name a few. For the CEMAC region, CLG's extensive network and growing expertise positions the firm as strategic partner for regional and global firms. As companies expand their presence across the region, CLG's agile, integrated approach - underpinned by its local roots and depth of experience - demonstrates the rising prominence of African advisory firms on the global stage. The CEMAC tax certification not only expands CLG's regional service coverage but also solidifies its reputation as a trusted partner for businesses navigating Central Africa's evolving tax landscape.
“CLG's deep understanding of its clients' businesses, collaborative approach with local authorities, multinational orientation and highly experienced local teams are some of the factors that set our tax practice apart in the region,” stated Daoudou Mohammed, CLG Tax and Legal Director.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.
Omotoso acquittal an "assault" on fight against GBV - Justice Committee
Parliament’s Justice Committee has expressed concern over the acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso on 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, racketeering, human trafficking, and other crimes.
On Wednesday, Gqeberha High Court Judge Irma Schoeman acquitted the pastor and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho – stating that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) had failed to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Responding to the ruling, Justice Committee Chairperson, Xola Nqola, described the outcome of the case as an “assault on the fight against gender-based violence (GBV)”.
“This is totally unacceptable. We need the National Prosecuting Authority to explain the weaknesses in the team, and the case they presented.
“Furthermore, the acquittal comes days after community activist and whistle-blower, Pamela Mabini, who was shot dead in her car in the driveway of her home in KwaZakhele, Gqeberha. Mabini was committed to supporting witnesses in this matter.
“With her gone, it seems we have failed our women, especially since the court referred to the poor quality of cross-examination as a contributing factor to the acquittal,” Nqola said.
Assessing options
In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority said it is studying the judgement and will consider legal options.
“Delivering the judgment, Judge Irma Schoeman found that the trio was not guilty due to the technicality, mainly that the former prosecutors in the case acted improperly, and the accused were not sufficiently cross-examined by the state.
“It is for that reason that the prosecuting team will study the judgement and decide which legal avenues to explore.
“In as much as the NPA does not seek to secure conviction at all costs, it remains committed to ensuring justice is served for the victims of crime and will go at all lengths to give a voice to the victims by exploring all the possible avenues,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 09:11
76 views
Creating a good movie experience at home starts with where you sit. Watching a movie on a couch that doesn’t support your back or let you relax can ruin the whole mood. That’s why more people are turning to proper cinema chairs for their entertainment rooms. These chairs are made for comfort, support, and long …