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Committee Receives Briefings on Interventions to Address the Escalating Municipal Electricity Debt

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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As part of its week-long oversight to Gauteng, the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy held a meeting that brought together key stakeholders which included Eskom, National Treasury, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), on the growing municipal electricity debt crisis, which has escalated to nearly R100 billion.

The aim of the meeting was to find solutions on the pressing challenges affecting municipalities' ability to meet their financial obligations and sustain electricity. The committee emphasised the seriousness of the situation, noting that the escalating municipal debt affects not only Eskom's financial stability but also the delivery of essential services to millions of South Africans.

During the discussions over 160 municipalities were classified as financially distressed, with 98 of them operating on unfunded budgets in the 2024/2025 financial year, 7 of them participating in the Municipal Debt Relief Program, and 14 of them have successfully met the conditions required for debt relief and write-offs.

The committee stressed that the municipal electricity debt crisis requires collaboration and decisive action from all levels of government and stakeholders. The committee said the crisis poses a significant risk to service delivery and the livelihoods of millions of South Africans. Members of the committee said the time of pointing fingers is over, the time calls for collaborative solutions and long-term reforms.

Eskom highlighted that the municipal arrears increased from R74 billion in March 2024 to R98.5 billion by February 2025, with significant growth in debt attributable to provinces like Free State and Mpumalanga. Eskom expressed grave concerns about the implications of this trend on its financial sustainability, noting that the gains from the debt relief program aimed at reducing its overall debt from R400 billion to R250 billion could be neutralised within three years if the rising municipal debt trajectory is not curtailed.

Eskom emphasised that as part of solutions to address the electricity debt crisis, funds collected from customers by the municipalities are prioritised to settle bulk electricity accounts before being used for other municipal expenses.

National Treasury underscored its efforts to enforce fiscal discipline through several interventions, including withholding equitable share allocations to defaulting municipalities under Section 216(2) of the Constitution. Treasury reported that equitable share allocations for several municipalities were withheld to compel them to address their financial management failures.

Despite these measures, Treasury acknowledged that entrenched dysfunctionality in many municipalities continues to undermine progress. Treasury also highlighted that only a fraction of the 10 million indigent households identified in the census are benefitting from the Free Basic Electricity grant due to inefficiencies in municipal administration, leaving millions of impoverished South Africans without critical energy support.

COGTA and SALGA shared insights into the structural and operational inefficiencies that have crippled municipalities. These include weak governance, lack of capacity, inadequate enforcement of revenue collection measures, and outdated infrastructure. COGTA noted that the absence of energy master plans and failure to maintain accurate indigent registers have compounded the crisis.

SALGA highlighted that the overly fragmented approach to addressing municipal debt must be replaced with integrated capacity-building programs, including technical assistance for cost-reflective tariffs and improved revenue collection systems.

The committee also heard that smart metring solutions have shown promising results in improving revenue collection, with pilot projects recovering millions of rands in previously uncollected funds. National Treasury announced that an additional R650 million would be allocated in the next financial year to expand smart metering programs to targeted municipalities. These interventions aim to enhance overall efficiency and ensure timely payment of bulk electricity accounts.

The meeting further explored the critical role of legislative reform in tackling these issues. Eskom and other stakeholders called for adjustments to the Electricity Regulation Act to enable more proactive credit control measures. The committee also noted concerns about the affordability of electricity tariffs and the long-standing need to increase the FBE grant threshold to meet the growing needs of indigent households.

Members of the committee pointed out that sustainability solutions must balance immediate interventions with long-term reforms. Furthermore, the committee stressed the need for an all-of-government approach to address the systemic nature of the challenges faced. The committee recommended the establishment of a dedicated Municipal Recovery Task Team comprising Eskom, National Treasury, COGTA, SALGA, and other relevant stakeholders. This task team will focus on implementing and monitoring solutions, including measures to improve governance, enhance collections, introduce prepaid systems for bulk electricity, and address legislative barriers.

The committee commended Eskom, National Treasury, COGTA, and SALGA for their continued commitment to resolving this crisis. However, the committee emphasised that municipalities must take greater responsibility for reversing the current trajectory.

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

Read moreCommittee Receives Briefings on Interventions to Address the Escalating Municipal Electricity Debt

Call to fight GBVF

Location: News

Call to fight GBVF

Urgent action is required to turn the tide against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said.

“We cannot allow our communities to live in fear. Ending GBVF requires all of us—leaders, police, traditional authorities, and citizens, to act together with urgency, conviction, and compassion,” Ntuli said.

This as he led a Crime Prevention Imbizo at Inkosi Mzondeni Civic Centre, in Mtubatuba on Thursday.

He called on the community of KwaMsane and the broader uMkhanyakude District to take a united stand against crime, particularly the devastating scourge of GBVF.

The Imbizo served as a platform for the Premier to engage directly with mayors, including law enforcement agencies, traditional leaders (Amakhosi), and community members on government-led strategies to address crime.

These include increased policing visibility, community-based safety initiatives, support services for survivors, and stronger partnerships between government and civil society.

The engagement aligns with the 7th Administration’s broader commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and dignified communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal. 

It also reinforces a provincial call to action: “no more silence, no more tolerance, and no more inaction in the face of violence and crime.”

The event started with a symbolic Peace Walk against GBVF at the Inkosi Mtubatuba Local Municipality and ended at Mtuba Police Station.

Among the participants at the walk included local leaders, civil society organisations, youth, and ordinary community members, wo also sent a strong message that GBVF has no place in KwaZulu-Natal. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Fri, 03/28/2025 - 10:13
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Cabinet welcomes hemp and cannabis food product regulations withdrawal

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes hemp and cannabis food product regulations withdrawal

Cabinet has welcomed the withdrawal of the Department of Health's regulations that banned the sale of hemp and cannabis food products, according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

This week the Presidency announced that Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi will retract these regulations following a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

”Whilst acknowledging the negative impact of the unregulated sale of hemp and cannabis food products on possible consumption by children, such regulations must be fully consulted, must not be in contempt of the Constitutional Court Judge, and must not contravene the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act,” the Minister told journalists in Pretoria on Thursday during a post-Cabinet media briefing. 

President Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to increasing stakeholder consultation and public participation in developing new regulations that will reduce health risks and the negative impact of food products containing cannabis and hemp, especially concerning minors. 

“In light of further stakeholder consultations, the Minister of Health will withdraw the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) to prohibit the sale, importation, and manufacture of foodstuffs containing hemp and cannabis. 

“The Department of Health will continue to consult broadly before publishing the revised regulations,” the Presidency added.

In addition, Ntshavheni said on Thursday that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is coordinating an interdepartmental draft regulation for the implementation of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 03/27/2025 - 11:46
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President commends progress made in provision of water and sanitation

Location: News

President commends progress made in provision of water and sanitation

President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the Department of Water and Sanitation for its ongoing efforts to improve water and sanitation access in the country.

Delivering the keynote address at the Water and Sanitation Indaba currently underway at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng, the President highlighted that through the department’s efforts, progress has been made towards meeting the minimum standards for the provision of water and sanitation services, and in addressing connection backlogs.

“As a country we can be proud of the progress we have made in fulfilling this basic right of our people since the advent of democracy. The National Water Act of 1998 was the key legislative enabler to facilitate access to adequate water and sanitation for our people.

“The results of Census 2022 point to our ongoing progress since the National Water Act was signed into law. In 2022 access to clean water stood at 88.5 %, and access to improved sanitation stood at 80.7 %,” the President said on Thursday. 

The President highlighted an increase in water infrastructure build, and this includes the National Infrastructure Fund which has to date, secured R23 billion for seven large water infrastructure projects, Phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) which is currently underway, as well as work on the uMkhomazi Dam.

Preparations are also underway for the construction of the Ntabelanga Dam on the uMzimvubu River.

The President noted a number of other water infrastructure projects earmarked for blended financing through the Infrastructure Fund, including the Polihali Dam that will feed 490 million cubic meters of water a year from the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River System.

Held under the theme: “Water Security and Provision”, the Indaba set for Thursday and Friday, underscores government’s ongoing commitment to tackling South Africa’s water security challenges and ensuring reliable and sustainable water and sanitation services for all citizens.

With its focus on water security and provision, the two-day gathering takes place during National Water Month and Human Rights Month, a significant period that underpins the importance of water as a fundamental human right and a critical resource for socio-economic development.

The timing of the gathering also underscores the urgency of addressing water and sanitation challenges to uphold the dignity and well-being of all South Africans.

Clean water and sanitation for all

While progress has been made, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that the country still has a long way to go towards achieving clean water and sanitation for all, as encapsulated in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6.

“Last year’s Water Summit identified ageing and poorly maintained infrastructure, vandalism of water infrastructure, illegal connections, and organised crime in the water sector as some of the challenges facing service delivery in this sector.

“At a local government level, financial mismanagement, insufficient revenue collection systems and high levels of physical water losses are compounding existing service delivery problems. These challenges have been consistently reflected in reports of the Municipal Strategic Self-Assessment, Stats SA, the Auditor-General and others,” the President explained.

With this dire state of affairs, he added that the country has seen declining private sector investment in water infrastructure, “a situation that is only now improving”.

By equal measure, he said the municipalities have not reinvested the revenue they earn from the provision of services to the upkeep of key water infrastructure.

“A number of water boards have been or are the subject of probes by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) for corruption and fraud. These are problems impacting a country with a growing population, which is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 03/27/2025 - 13:21
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George rallies world leaders to accelerate efforts to achieve SDGs

Location: News

George rallies world leaders to accelerate efforts to achieve SDGs

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on the international community to urgently accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“We are less than five years away from our deadline to achieving the SDGs and the end of this critical decade for climate action. Yet, we are still far from our goals and action targets,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The United Nations describes the SDGs as the “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all” by addressing global challenges related to poverty, inequality and climate change, among others, with the year 2030 set as the target to meet the goals.

Addressing the Group of Twenty (G20) Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) virtually, the Minister said poverty levels are worsening, and that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reached record highs last year. 

“This calls for an urgent acceleration of our efforts. Our commitment to achieve these goals must not waver. That is why South Africa has placed solidarity, equality and sustainability at the centre of our G20 Presidency.

“As the international community, together, we committed ourselves to the ambitious agenda to end poverty and hunger, to protect our planet, to achieve universal education and health coverage, and to promote decent work and sustainable economic growth by adopting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals,” George said.

The Minister said South Africa is striving to champion and fast-track action in the pursuit of a just transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient and inclusive society, and lead by example. 

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa proclaimed the Climate Change Act, laying the ground for ambitious climate action domestically. 

Earlier this month, the Minister informed the public that the President proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024, with the proclamation notice published in the Government Gazette on 17 March 2025, which was the commencement date of the Act.

“The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development; and to provide for matters connected therewith,” the Minister said at the time.

The Act lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive and future-focused. It creates a clear framework for climate action.

In his address on Tuesday, the Minister said South Africa’s rollout of renewable energy has materially accelerated over the past few years, driving the decarbonisation of South Africa’s energy system, while the implementation of Expanded Producer Responsibility schemes and circular economy initiatives is improving waste management.

“The task remains immense. Poverty, unemployment, hunger, inequality, environmental degradation and climate change are but a few of the complex and interconnected issues facing the world today. 

“...We thus reiterate the critical role of multilateralism in addressing these complexities, and South Africa’s very strong support for multilateralism,” the Minister explained.

Priorities 

George said the five interrelated priorities of the Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group provide an opportunity to address multiple complexities within this context, while advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The priorities include Biodiversity and Conservation, Land Degradation, Desertification and Drought, Chemicals and Waste Management, Climate Change and Air Quality, as well as Oceans and Coasts.

“These priorities of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group for this year are viewed as critical enablers to address poverty, create employment and meet other sustainable development goals, thereby contributing towards the global effort to respond to the triple complexities of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss, in line with the overall theme of South Africa’s G20 Presidency of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” the Minister said.

As a primary outcome of the G20 Presidency this year, South Africa will explore ways that the G20 can leverage opportunities to increase the scale and flows of climate finance, critical to enabling the Just Transition, mitigation and adaptation efforts, while ensuring that the required investments reach the most vulnerable of society. 

“It is paramount for developing economy countries to be actively supported in their efforts to achieve ‘whole of society and whole of economy’ just transitions to sustainable development on the ground, through scaled access to low-cost finance, technology and skills.

“It is also increasingly recognised that many people across the globe are exposed to unhealthy and often deadly levels of air pollution, and that the impacts of air pollution extend beyond health - affecting climate, biodiversity, ecosystems and economic development. 

“This is also a key issue that needs to be addressed, and to which this Working Group can contribute. There are very extensive synergies between decarbonisation and the improvement of air quality,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 03/26/2025 - 07:56
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CoGTA convenes landmark Eastern Seaboard Development Traditional Leaders’ Summit

Location: News

CoGTA convenes landmark Eastern Seaboard Development Traditional Leaders’ Summit

The Deputy Ministers of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe and Dr Namane Dickson Masemola have successfully convened the inaugural Eastern Seaboard Development (ESD) Traditional Leaders’ Summit in the Eastern Seaboard region.

The ESD includes the coastal regions of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

The Deputy Ministers were joined by the House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders (NHTKL), Chairperson Kgosi Thabo Seatlholo, as well as the Eastern Cape CoGTA MEC Zolile Williams.

The summit, which took place from 23 to 24 March 2025, also brought together traditional leaders, municipal representatives, and key stakeholders from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

The aim of the summit was to strengthen the participation of traditional leadership in the planning and implementation of the ESD programme.

The gathering forms part of ongoing engagements under the ESD initiative, which seeks to harness the region’s economic potential through strategic infrastructure development, enhanced governance, and the active participation of all stakeholders, including traditional leadership, in local economic growth.

Over two days, the summit provided a robust platform to:

•    Review the participation of traditional leaders in the ESD planning phase and respond to key concerns raised during prior consultations.

•    Define the role of traditional leadership in the implementation of ESD projects, including participation in planning and governance structures.

•    Discuss land acquisition, land use rights, and partnerships with investors to ensure secure tenure and meaningful engagement.

•    Align the ESD with the broader Invest Rural Masterplan and rural development initiatives.

•    Address traditional leadership concerns related to Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act (SPLUMA).

•    Identify empowerment initiatives to capacitate traditional leaders in economic development matters.
Since its inception, the ESD initiative has made significant strides in its planning phase.

The Eastern Seaboard was officially declared a region under the SPLUMA in June 2022, paving the way for the development of a Regional Spatial Development Framework (RSDF).

This framework, which has undergone extensive public consultation, is set to provide a clear roadmap for government and private sector investment in the region.

As the ESD initiative moves into its implementation phase, the focus will be on further consultations, consolidating projects, mobilising resources, and building the necessary capacity to ensure successful execution. – SAnews.gov.za 

Gabisile
Tue, 03/25/2025 - 10:58
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Deputy President calls for action to tackle unemployment, inequality

Location: News

Deputy President calls for action to tackle unemployment, inequality

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for urgent and sustained efforts to address unemployment and inequality, describing them as fundamental human rights issues.

Speaking at the national Human Rights Day commemoration in Kariega, the Deputy President acknowledged South Africa’s economic progress but said the country’s 31.9% unemployment rate remained an indicator of persistent socio-economic challenges.

“The pursuit of a just and equitable society is a complex endeavour. While South Africa has experienced notable economic growth through expanding economic participation, the harsh reality of a 31.9% unemployment rate starkly reveals our ongoing struggle against poverty and inequality,” he said. 

The Deputy President stressed this was not just an economic issue but a matter of fairness and human rights, requiring collective action from all sectors of society. 

“This is not merely an economic issue, it represents a fundamental matter of human rights and fairness, demanding concerted and sustained effort from all of us. The lack of economic and employment opportunities has a direct correlation to poverty, and it exacerbates inequality,” the Deputy President said.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to create economic opportunities through policy and legislative measures, citing key employment programmes that have benefitted millions of young people.

“Government is working to create more opportunities for all citizens through various policy and legislative frameworks. Programmes such as the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) are providing work experience to over 1.5 million young people, 70% of whom are women,” he said. 

Other initiatives like the National Skills Fund Disabilities Programme and the Social Employment Fund also address youth unemployment. 

The Deputy President emphasised that government remains committed to strengthening the safety net for the most vulnerable in society and will leave no one behind. 

Against the backdrop of Human Rights Day, he underscored the significance of youth engagement in shaping South Africa’s democracy. 

Across the country, he said, young people continue to step forward to shape the future of the nation’s democracy, ensuring that the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not just theoretical but truly lived.

He lauded young leaders participating in the Mandela-Sobukwe Leadership Camp at Nelson Mandela University, an initiative supported by the Departments of Higher Education and Training and Health.

“This leadership programme is about more than just discussions it is about preparing young leaders to champion civic engagement, ethical leadership, and economic justice in their institutions and communities,” he said.

Reflecting on the theme “Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights,” the Deputy President emphasised the need to equip young people with the necessary tools and platforms to effect meaningful change. 

“We must ensure that we continue to empower young people with the correct tools, platforms, and opportunities to become the leaders of tomorrow – leaders who, like Nelson Mandela and Robert Sobukwe, do not just accept the status quo but actively work to transform it for the better,” he said. 

Deputy President Mashatile commended young people nationwide for their efforts in advocating for justice and progress. 

“I commend the young people in this programme, whom I am told are here in the stadium and all those across the country who continue to fight for dignity, justice, and progress. South Africa’s future is in your hands, and today, we celebrate your voices, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to human rights,” he said. 

Building a just society

The Deputy President said building a just society involves ensuring continued access to critical services such as electricity, water, housing and sanitation to improve the quality of life for citizens.

He noted that government has made substantial progress towards achieving these rights. Between 2011 and 2022, access to water rose to 88.5%, while access to improved sanitation reached 80.7%.

“We are also working to increase access to affordable housing through initiatives such as First Home Finance, which is about the provision of serviced sites for qualifying beneficiaries, small-scale affordable rentals, and other strategic interventions that go beyond legislative measures to address the 2.4 million housing backlog,” he said. 

Land expropriation

The Deputy President underscored the nation’s land reform agenda as a crucial step in addressing historical injustices, as it acknowledged that land dispossession remains one of the most lasting and difficult legacy of the apartheid era.

He said the Expropriation Act, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa in January this year, signifies a shift towards a more inclusive approach to land ownership, incorporating the principle of 'public interest' in land acquisition, and demonstrating a commitment to social justice and redress.

“We would like to reiterate that South Africa, as a sovereign state, would not disregard its policies and activities aimed at rectifying historical injustices due to external pressure. We are confident that we have chosen the correct path to establishing an equitable society, and we will not deviate from it,” the Deputy President said. 

This year’s Human Rights Day commemorative events were held at the Derrick Ferreira Stadium, in Kariega under the theme “Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights”.

The theme calls for renewed commitment from all levels of society to accelerate practical solutions for inclusive growth, job creation, poverty reduction, and addressing the high cost of living while building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day annually on 21 March in remembrance of the Sharpeville Massacre of 1960, where 69 anti-apartheid protesters were killed by apartheid police. The day also honours the 35 people killed on 21 March 1985 in Uitenhage and KwaLanga when apartheid police targeted community members after a funeral. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Fri, 03/21/2025 - 15:34
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Human Rights Day should be a time for reflection

Location: News

Human Rights Day should be a time for reflection

While many have been looking forward to the long weekend provided by Human Rights Day, its commemoration should not only provide an opportunity to connect with loved ones but should also inspire the nation to reflect on the gains the country has made.

“What is important as we’re about to celebrate Human Rights Day is that we should be a proud nation and country given where we come from,” Deputy Director-General for Court Administration at the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD), Lucky Mohalaba told SAnews, in a recent interview with the South African Government news agency. 

March 2025 marks over six decades since the painful events of 21 March 1960 where 69 lives were lost in the Sharpeville Massacre. The massacre came to be as a result of citizens choosing to protest against the then pass laws of the apartheid government.

Lives were lost and many were injured not only in that massacre in Gauteng, but across the country as a whole.

When the country attained democracy in 1994, government declared 21 March as a national day to commemorate Human Rights Day. The month of March was also declared as Human Rights Month.

“[We ought to remember] the atrocities that were committed against the people of this country who were fighting for their rights. Given the forcefulness of the then regime to deny the people of this country their rights, whether it be in [the] health sector, education and so on, we should be very proud about where we come from, and the victories that we scored in 1994.

“At the present moment we should take leave in terms of our constitutional dispensation as South Africans and be proud of the Constitution which offers every one of us our rights as enshrined in the Bill of Rights. I think that should be celebrated given the dark history of this country,” Mohalaba told SAnews.

Contained in South Africa’s Constitution, the Bill of Rights is a cornerstone of democracy and “enshrines the rights of all people in our country and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.”

Among its tenets is that everyone is equal before the law and that the state may not unfairly discriminate directly or indirectly against anyone on one or more grounds, including race, gender, sex, ethnic or social origin, amongst others.

The Bill of Rights also states that everyone has inherent dignity and the right to have their dignity respected and protected.
The DDG’s comments come as Deputy President Paul Mashatile is set to deliver the Human Rights Day keynote address in the Eastern Cape today.

The Deputy President will deliver the address on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Derrick Ferreira Stadium in Kariega which is located within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality.

Human Rights commemorative events this year are being held under the theme, “Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights”.

“This is a call for a renewed and strengthened commitment from all levels of society, to accelerate practical solutions in driving inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical and developmental State,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.

In its statement, it stated that this is an important day, which also honours 35 people who were killed on 21 March 1985, when apartheid police targeted community members after a funeral in Uitenhage and KwaLanga.

This year, government chose Kariega to host the national commemoration as the State’s initiative to rotate national days, allowing communities across all provinces to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the liberation struggle.

According to the Presidency, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on and evaluate the progress made towards building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and united nation.

Constitutionalism 

Mohalaba added that government is committed to promoting constitutionalism.

“What we can say to South Africans as the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is that the department is still committed, led by the Minister [Mamoloko Kubayi], to ensure that we promote constitutionalism across the country.

“We are still committed to ensuring that people have access to justice using the facilities we have such as the courts and also reviewing apartheid legislation,” he said. 

Mohalaba’s comments come as discussion documents into the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 that were released for comment in February with the closing date for public input set for 31 March 2025.

The act makes provision for procedures and related matters in criminal proceedings.

The documents were released by the South African Law Reform Commission (SALRC). The review seeks to address systemic challenges in the Act, particularly in relation to provisions that deal with arrest, bail, alternative dispute resolution, and victim participation in the criminal justice process.

READ | Deadline for comments into CPA discussion papers looms 

The review seeks to address systemic challenges in the Act, particularly in relation to provisions that deal with arrest, bail, alternative dispute resolution, and victim participation in the criminal justice process.

“Those are matters that the department is really looking into, and I think [that for us] is to celebrate but at the same time, the laws that we have as a nation, we urge the nation to ensure that we protect these victories. [What we are saying] to the citizens of this country is that this department being at the centre of constitutionalism, is still committed to ensuring that the laws that have been passed by Parliament and signed off by the State President are applied to the fullest,” he explained.

The DDG said that government is committed to building a better South Africa.

“We are committed to work with the public at large to say that as we celebrate Human Rights Day. This department and government in particular, is committed to building a strong, united nation going forward for generations to come,” he said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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Thu, 03/20/2025 - 13:47
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President takes ‘dim view’ on US visit seeking Cape secession

Location: News

President takes 'dim view' on US visit seeking Cape secession

President Cyril Ramaphosa takes a “very strong dim view” of a proposed visit to the United States of America by the Cape Independence Advocacy Group to seek the Western Cape’s secession from South Africa.

This according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who addressed the media on Thursday morning.

“Our constitutional democracy that we forged in 1994, created a singular, non-racial state that recognises and protects our unity in diversity. From Musina to Cape Town, we are one democratic society that should never be allowed to fall under the chasm of race divide.

“There is no part of our beautiful land that can be allowed to secede. The President cautions everyone to exercise his or her Constitutionally given right, but to do so in the manner that does not undermine and subvert Constitutional democracy in South Africa.

“We should all be actively engaged in building a better South Africa in the face of unpredictable geo-political dynamics,” Magwenya said.

Turbulent times

Of late, South Africa has grappled with tensions with the United States of America, following the promulgation of the Expropriation Act of 2025 and, more recently, the expulsion of South African Ambassador to the USA, Ebrahim Rasool.

Magwenya explained that the Expropriation Act of 2025 replaces the Apartheid government’s 1975 Expropriation Act to align it to the country’s “land reform policies in line with our democratic Constitutional order”. 

“The new Act introduces a transparent expropriation basis that strikes a healthy balance on land reform with legal protections. The Expropriation Act followed all legal prescribed channels to be enacted into law.

“Therefore, it leaves one to wonder what wrong have we done as a country with respect to this particular Act. We remain a rule of law society, and we adhere unwaveringly to the principles of our Constitutional democracy.

“We strongly reject any insinuation or assertion that through the Expropriation Act, we are committing acts of human rights violations, we are arbitrarily expropriating land,” Magwenya said.

On the return of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, Magwenya said government urges all political formations planning homecoming rallies for the ambassador to “refrain from partaking or engaging in actions that may seem inflammatory” and that may “worsen the already volatile diplomatic relationship with the United States”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:54
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Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB

Location: News

Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB

Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, says Tuberculosis (TB) has resulted in more deaths than all other infectious diseases combined but receives less attention. 

In 2023 alone, TB claimed over 56 000 deaths in South Africa, despite being a preventable and treatable disease. 

The Minister emphasised the urgent need to tackle this public health crisis and announced that the soon-to-be-launched End TB campaign aims to reduce TB-related deaths by 41% by 2035.

“TB is one of the oldest and deadliest diseases, yet it continues to be a silent killer,” said Motsoaledi on Wednesday. 

“TB doesn’t make noise. And that’s the problem that we’re faced with. That’s why I’m saying we are faced with a very difficult job.” 

The Minister called on everyone to act now to end this epidemic and save lives.

The Minister’s remarks come as Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event on Monday, 24 March 2025.

World TB Day is commemorated annually on the 24th of March to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of TB and highlight efforts to eliminate the disease.

During the event on Monday, the Deputy President will also launch the national End TB campaign in Gamalakhe Township, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal. 

According to the Minister, the End TB initiative aims to test five million people for the disease, leveraging the success of HIV treatment strategies to control disease and prevent drug resistance.

“When we say you want to test five million people, if one family member tested positive, we want to test the whole family. That’s what we are going to do.”

He noted that this infectious disease has killed more people than all other infectious including Ebola, malaria, yellow fever, smallpox, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, influenza, and mpox. 

In addition, Motsoaledi emphasised several key elements of the campaign, including the need for those who test positive to receive immediate treatment to prevent further transmission.

The Minister acknowledged the strong link between TB and HIV/AIDS and announced that the campaign will integrate the management of these two diseases, noting that TB kills 80% of people with HIV. 

He highlighted the success of SANAC in bringing HIV/AIDS under control, observing the reduction in funerals over the past 15 years.

He suggested changing the name of SANAC to the South African National AIDS and TB Council to reflect the co-infection.

Meanwhile, he said the End TB campaign was a critical step in South Africa’s efforts to address the longstanding TB epidemic and improve the health and well-being of its citizens. 

He also touched on the promising new M72/AS01E TB vaccine, funded by the Gates Foundation and Wellcome, with the trial being conducted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI), with preliminary results expected in 2027. 

The Minister called on the media to be an ally in shaping public perceptions, creating awareness, and influencing action around the TB campaign. 

He was of the view that by amplifying the message, the media can play a crucial role in mobilising communities to participate in the fight against TB.

“We cannot succeed in this battle without the support and engagement of the media. 

“Together, we can raise awareness, dispel misconceptions, and empower people to take action against this preventable disease,” he stressed. – SAnews.go.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 15:02
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Action taken against Harties Dam invasive alien plant

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Action taken against Harties Dam invasive alien plant

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, and the Rhodes University Centre for Biological Control (CBC) have released weevil species to tackle the invasive alien aquatic plant at Hartbeespoort Dam in the North West.

The salvinia weevil insect is a biological control agent known as Cyrtobagous salviniae, used to manage the Salvinia minima, an invasive floating alien aquatic weed (known as the common salvinia).

The weevil species is a subaquatic herbivorous insect that feeds on the common salvinia. The species were imported from Florida State in the United Sates of America (USA), and it has proven to be effective and successful to control the aquatic plant in the USA.

Joined by Professor Julie Coetzee, the Deputy Director of the Centre for Biological Control and Principal Scientist at the National Research Foundation’s South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, Seitlholo officially released the salvinia weevil insect on Monday at Mogi Adventures, located next to the Crocodile River.

The invasive alien plant was initially recorded at Hartbeespoort Dam in 2011, and has since spread through areas of the North West and Gauteng Provinces, and has reached the Limpopo River, which marks the border with the neighbouring country of Botswana, threatening South Africa’s water bodies.

According to Coetzee, the weevils multiply quickly and their impact of controlling the aquatic plant can be observed in a year.

She said the CBC, in collaboration with community partners, will rear the weevil and facilitate releases at various sites across the country where water is invaded by the common salvinia.

“This biological control programme will be monitored and the progress of the weevil and its impact on common salvinia will be noted. The weevils only feed on the salvinia minima plant and their entire life cycle depends on the plant, thus they do not have a threat of infesting other ornamental plants, crops or even the water hyacinth plants,” Coetzee said.

Seitlholo emphasised the importance of securing the country’s water resources by partnering with scientific institutes like the CBC.

“What is also important is for us to get into serious conversations with municipalities in the upper catchment that are largely responsible for causing the high nutrient load in the water due to their substandard effluent discharged from their wastewater treatment works, which is being released into the river, eventually landing in the dam.

“This results in high nutrient levels in the water, which gives rise to the spread of these alien invasive aquatic plants, compromising the ecosystem, recreation and the general local economy,” Seitlholo said.

He said the use of the weevils will run concurrently with the other remediation programme currently underway at the dam, which is being implemented by Magalies Water to eradicate alien invasion species that have negatively impacted the ecosystem in the water.

The remedial programme includes the physical removal of the water hyacinth at the dam. This also includes the pilot project of nanobubbles technology, which increases dissolved oxygen in the water, activates the decomposition of microorganisms in water and river sediment.

Given that the quality of water is affected by the discharge of effluent and raw sewage from the municipalities of Tshwane, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni, Seitlholo said municipalities ought to play a role in the remediation programmes undertaken by the department to rehabilitate the water resource.

Despite the department’s Compliance, Enforcement and Monitoring Directorate engaging the municipalities, Seitlholo said the department has also proposed amendments to Section 19 of the National Water Act (NWA), which focuses on preventing and remedying the effects of pollution, ensuring the protection of water resources and addressing pollution.

Seitlholo said the proposed amendments to the NWA, which are currently with the State Law Advisor, enable the department to directly hold the executive mayor and the municipal manager liable for the transgressions of the municipality in terms of the pollution of the country’s water courses.

“These legislation measures are taken by the department to fundamentally deal with issues of water pollution in the country,” Seitlholo said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 03/19/2025 - 10:12
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Simelane commits to implement recommendations into George building collapse

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Simelane commits to implement recommendations into George building collapse

Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, has undertaken to implement all recommendations contained in the final report of the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) into a building that collapsed in George, in the Western Cape in 2024.

The current preliminary report suggests that several procedures were not followed, a breach of the Housing Consumers Protection Act Measures Act, 1998 (Act No. 95 of 1998) and the recently signed Consumer Protection Act 25 of 2004.

NHBRC is a regulatory body established to protect the interests of housing consumers and to regulate the home-building industry in South Africa.

Its primary functions include ensuring that home builders are registered and adhere to prescribed building standards and ethical practices and conducting inspections during various stages of construction to ensure compliance with national building regulations and technical standards.

“Upon its finalisation, should it happen that there are procedural flaws and compromise of NHBRC building standards, we will not hesitate to refer its recommendations to the law enforcement authorities for investigation and possible criminal charges,” Simelane said.

The Minister underscored that if any crime was committed, including by her officials at NHBRC, she would not hesitate to act.

She acknowledged that the George building collapse was of public interest, and committed to taking the nation into her confidence once the final report has been concluded.

The Minister urged the nation to be patience as the process is at an advanced stage.

“The Ministry of Human Settlements will not conduct further media engagements on the matter while a final report is being prepared.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Tue, 03/18/2025 - 10:14
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KZN Foot and Mouth Disease boundaries extended

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KZN Foot and Mouth Disease boundaries extended

In response to the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in KwaZulu-Natal, Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, has announced the extension of the province's Disease Management Area boundaries to curb further outbreaks.

According to a departmental report on Monday, the outbreaks of FMD in KwaZulu-Natal have not been successfully contained, with new cases recently detected in the Newcastle area.

“The disease has now spread beyond the initial Disease Management Area (DMA) declared in 2021, when outbreaks of the SAT2 FMD strain first emerged in the province,” the department said.

READ | Ministry provides update on Foot and Mouth Disease 

The department said the latest measure aims to control the movement of cloven-hoofed animals (cattle, sheep, and goats) and their derived products in affected areas.

“No cloven-hoofed animals, their products, or genetic material may be moved from, to, or within the DMA unless authorised by a state veterinary permit and in full compliance with the stipulated conditions of such [a] permit. The updated DMA boundaries will be officially declared in the Government Gazette in the coming days,” the department said.

The DMA has now been extended to local municipalities including Big Five Hlabisa; Mtubatuba; Nongoma; Ulundi; Umhlabuyalingana; Jozini; Pongola; Abaqulusi; Mfolozi; uMhlathuze; Mthonjaneni; Nqutu; Nkandla; uMlalazi; and Mandeni Local Municipality.

Partial municipalities (specific portions covered by the DMA) include:
•    Emadlangeni: South of R34 from R33
•    Newcastle: South of R34 up to and east of N11
•    Dannhauser: East of N11 and north of R68
•    Endumeni: North of R68 and east of R33
•    Msinga: East of R33
•    UMvoti: East of R33 up to R74 and north of R74
•     Maphumulo: Northeast of R74
•    Ndwedwe: East of R74
•    KwaDukuza: Northeast of R74 up to the N2 and west to the N2 up to Mandeni.

Movement control measures and responsibility

The department has reiterated that movement control measures, originally declared in October 2022, remain in place nationwide, and “these control measures have been included again in the new Government Gazette notice".

“These measures require that: any movement of cattle, sheep, or goats must be accompanied by an owner declaration confirming the animals’ origin and health status; and that the recipient of the animals at the destination must provide a signed undertaking ensuring the animals will be isolated for at least 28 days before integration with the main herd,” the department explained.

The department emphasised that Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984), places a legal obligation on all animal owners and farm managers to take all reasonable steps to prevent their animals from becoming infected and to prevent the spread of diseases.

Essential biosecurity measures include:
•    Limiting or postponing the introduction of new animals onto farms.
•    Only introducing animals from known, disease-free sources with a valid health declaration.
•     Preventing direct contact between farm animals and those outside the farm.
•    Maintaining secure farm boundaries and restricting access to livestock areas.
•    Minimising human and vehicle access to farms, with proper disinfection protocols in place.

Reporting 

FMD is classified as a controlled animal disease under the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984), which mandates specific control measures, such as isolation and movement restrictions, enforced by Veterinary Services.

“Any suspicious clinical symptoms, such as salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping, or hoof lesions, should be reported immediately to the local State Veterinarian, and such animals must not be moved under any circumstances,” the department emphasised. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 03/18/2025 - 08:45
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Minister Dion George Announces Proclamation and Implementation of Climate Change Act

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Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment
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The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, is pleased to inform the members of the public that the President, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, has proclaimed the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) (the Act). The proclamation notice was published in the Government Gazette on 17 March 2025, which is therefore the commencement date of the Act.

The Act is intended to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term, just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Furthermore, the Act lays the foundation for a green economy that is resilient, inclusive, and future-focused. By creating a clear framework for climate action, the Act will drive innovation, foster sustainable industries, and support job creation in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism, among other sectors.

Dr George said, “The Act represents a critical milestone not just for environmental sustainability, but for economic development and job creation. We are committed to ensuring that climate action becomes a catalyst for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and building a sustainable future for South Africa.”

The Act reflects the government's commitment to achieving a just transition to a low-carbon economy, ensuring that climate action goes hand-in-hand with economic empowerment and job creation. As the country, much like the rest of the world, faces growing environmental and economic complexities, the Act provides a vital framework for securing a prosperous and sustainable future for all South Africans.

It must be noted that although the Act has come into operation, the commencement of certain provisions of the Act, namely, sections 12(6), 13(1), 13(2), 13(3)(b), 14(3)(a), 15(5), 15(6), 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25(4)(c), 26(2) to (6), 27, 28 and 30(2)(a) and (b), has been deferred to a later date. The reason for deferring these specific provisions is that the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is developing a set of regulations that will enable implementation of these provisions. Some of the draft regulations are at an advanced stage of development and will be gazetted for public input and comment soon.

The DFFE will continue to keep members of the public informed of the finalisation of the regulations and the full implementation of the Climate Change Act.

“The recent severe weather conditions that have caused havoc in different parts of the country are a stark reminder of the urgent need for decisive climate action and my Department will continue to work hard towards achieving our mandate,” said Dr George.

A copy of the Act, Gazetted Proclamation Notice, and the Deferred provisions of the Act can be accessed on the following links:

Climate Change Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_assented_g50966vol709n5050.pdf

Climate Change Act proclamation: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_commencement_g52319pn251.pdf

Deferred provisions of the Act: https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/cca_deferredprovisions_g52319pn251.pdf

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.

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