Minister Issues Tender for 12-Month Temporary Lottery Licence
Critics say this favours Ithuba, the current operator
ACT
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US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA
US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA
South Africa says it notes the United States’ decision to revoke the US International Climate Finance Plan, which had led to the withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition (JET) partnership with South Africa.
Last month, US President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14162 to revoke and rescind this plan.
According to reports, this also means the immediate withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement designed to combat climate change by curbing global greenhouse gas emissions.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said President Trump’s recent actions have affected the policies aimed at advancing South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JETP).
“As a result, effective immediately, the US has announced the termination of its membership of the International Partners Group (IPG) for JETPs South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam,” the department explained.
With the United States withdrawal, the department said associated financial pledges are also withdrawn.
“Grant projects that were previously funded and in planning or implementation phases have been cancelled.”
However, DIRCO said the country remains committed to implementing international agreements, including the decisions taken at the historic Paris Agreement.
“South Africa and other international partners will evaluate the implications of the US withdrawal from the JETP,” the department said,
During a parliamentary discussion regarding the United States’ decision to reduce funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa should not lament this change. Instead, the country should view this situation as an opportunity for transformation.
“We must act in unison to mitigate the negative impact of the USAID cuts. We must seize this moment to reconceptualise our global system and ensure that our domestic imperatives serve our nation efficiently and sustainably,” Lamola told Members of Parliament (MP).
He highlighted that the United States is South Africa’s biggest trading partner in the world after China.
South Africa is home to 601 American companies, accounting for 143 000 jobs.
The Minister told MPs that in 2023, bilateral trade between the US and South Africa equalled US$ 22 billion, with the United States being a significant agricultural export destination for South Africa.
South Africa exports platinum, motor vehicles, reaction initiators, ferroalloys, citrus, jewellery, nuts, chemicals, wines, engines, turbines, and ships and boats to the United States.
According to Lamola, about 22 South African companies are currently invested in the United States, providing about 6 900 jobs. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:46
336 views
KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder
KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for the swift arrest of the perpetrators involved in the rape and murder of Sphindiwe Hlongwa, whose body was found dumped near her home in Mkhazini, south of Durban.
According to reports, Hlongwa, 31, was found strangled to death, with visible signs of assault and a swollen face after being dropped off by a Renault Kwid near her home on Monday evening.
Ntuli has condemned Hlongwa’s killing, describing the act as “barbaric, inhumane, and an attack on the dignity and safety of women” in the province.
“We are deeply horrified by yet another grotesque act of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is one of many murders linked to the scourge of GBVF in our province.
“However, working with the SAPS [South African Police Service] under our Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, we will make sure to treat every case as an emergency, one case at a time. We will never give up and we will do everything to defeat GBVF,” the Premier said.
Ntuli urged anyone with information related to the crime to come forward and assist the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.
International Women's Month commemoration
Meanwhile, Ntuli will on Saturday lead a delegation of the Members of the Executive Council (MEC) to commemorate International Women's Day at the KwaMashu Civic Centre.
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. Observed annually on 8 March, the day is a reminder of the contributions women make to society and the challenges they continue to face. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:54
50 views
Emergency housing unit deployed to assist KZN flood victims
Emergency housing unit deployed to assist KZN flood victims
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has deployed a team from the Emergency Housing Unit -- in collaboration with the department's roving team -- to support families impacted by the ongoing floods in KwaZulu-Natal.
During her two-day visit to the province on Tuesday and Wednesday, the Minister held discussions with provincial and local authorities to explore urgent human settlements interventions.
As part of these efforts, she announced several initiatives aimed at alleviating the immediate housing crisis for flood victims.
The interventions announced include the temporary accommodation of 225 residents from Ward 74 in Lamontville, who have been relocated to the Impala Hotel.
Simelane also announced plans to provide permanent housing for 229 families from Lamontville, who will be resettled on land owned by the eThekwini Municipality in Georgedale, near Hammarsdale.
“We will build Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) for these families, while permanent homes are being constructed. Additionally, 93 households will be supplied with building materials to help them begin rebuilding,” Simelane announced on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, Simelane, accompanied by KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma, visited the flood-affected Ncube and Nkwanyana families in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban.
The Ncube family, with six members, was forced to flee their home as three of their houses were completely submerged. The family is currently living together in a two-bedroom house.
Duma confirmed that an excavator has been deployed to clear rubble and waste from the area so as to unblock the drainage system. He said after discussions with Inkosi Makhanya, a suitable piece of land has been identified to relocate the Ncube family.
Simelane also visited the Ugu District Municipality to assess the extent of the flood damage in the region, with plans for further intervention in the coming days.
Unlocking emergency housing fund
The Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements has called on the national Department of Human Settlements, KwaZulu-Natal’s Human Settlements Department, and the eThekwini Municipality to work together to address the devastation caused by the ongoing floods in KwaZulu-Natal.
Committee chairperson Nocks Seabi emphasised the immediate need to unlock the Emergency Housing Response Fund to provide critical support to the affected communities.
Seabi said during its oversight visit in October last year, the committee highlighted various concerns with delays to ensuring access to the fund for victims of floods.
He said it is in this context that impediments must be removed, so the fund can serves its purpose by being timeous and agile in assisting victims.
“In an environment of devastation and distress, government programmes must not be tied up in bureaucracy and territorial disputes that delay interventions. We are hopeful that the concessions made by the national department on the implementation of the fund will come in handy in the response to the current disaster.
“The delays witnessed previously, such as the verification of beneficiaries and assessment of damaged houses, which had taken 10 to 12 months or longer, should be a thing of the past going forward,” Seabi said in a statement this week.
Seabi called for enhanced monitoring of building standards, as regulated by many laws, including the Housing Consumer Protection Act, and the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act to ensure that houses are able to withstand the elements.
“In an environment of increasing environmental disasters, building standards and building materials should be such that they can withstand such disasters. Stronger monitoring and inspections should be the order of the day,” the chairperson said.
Seabi extended his heartfelt condolences to the people that have passed on during the floods, which continue to wreak havoc in the province. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 11:16
12 views
Dept seeks declaratory order for irregular tender for Driving Licence Card Machine
Dept seeks declaratory order for irregular tender for Driving Licence Card Machine
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has instructed her department to lodge a high court application for a declaratory order regarding the Driving Licence Card Machine (DLCM) tender found to have been irregular by the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA).
The department on Wednesday said the declaratory order is being sought to get guidance on how to proceed, given the findings of the AGSA audit report.
In September last year, the Minister requested the AGSA, who at the time was undertaking an audit of the procurement process for the new DLCM, to widen the scope of the audit process to include whether Supply Chain Management (SCM) prescripts were followed to the letter, and if the specs of the project included adequate measure to protect the safety of personal data, given the sensitivity of information and security features involved in this project.
The AGSA identified instances of non-compliance with the required procurement processes.
“The non-compliances emanated from transgressions of SCM prescripts (Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Treasury Regulations and Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) SCM policies, rendering the procurement process irregular,” the Department of Transport said on Wednesday.
The AGSA audit of the DLCA SCM processes revealed irregularities in the tender evaluation.
IDEMIA, the winning bidder, failed to meet key bid technical requirements. Additionally, the AGSA review confirmed that the other bidders were not unfairly disqualified, as they also did not meet the bid technical specifications.
All bids submitted exceeded the R486 385 million budget set by the DLCA, indicating inadequate market analysis and budgeting.
The AGSA found that the DLCA used outdated pre-COVID-19 prices, and the budget they submitted to Cabinet for approval did not include all the costs for the contract, leading to Cabinet approving a memo that was not a true reflection of the cost of the contract.
"This poses the risk of the project being delayed or cancelled due to insufficient funds," the AGSA said in its report.
The AGSA also noted that the bid specifications included an adequate assessment of the ability of the system to protect personal data. All bidders were evaluated on this criterion, and some were responsive.
According to the AGSA, the Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) deviated from assessing the bids using the exact criteria set out in the bid specifications when evaluating documents provided by bidders.
“The BEC members had to use their judgement and make executive decisions on how to assess the bids due to ambiguous bid specifications, which did not clearly address the DLCA requirements. This ambiguity led to discrepancies identified by the AGSA, resulting in an unfair and non-transparent procurement process.
“The inconsistencies extended beyond technical evaluation to site visits conducted by the DLCA. During these visits, the DLCA was supposed to confirm that the MX8100 machine proposed by the bidder, IDEMIA, had the required capacity and capability to deliver on the requirements. The DLCA chose to inspect an unrelated machine”.
The AGSA said the deviation from the bid specifications and the use of ambiguous criteria undermined the fairness and transparency of the procurement process.
“It is on the basis of the above that the department is in no position to turn a blind eye on the findings of the AGSA that points to irregularities in the tender process and the transgressions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).
“In terms of section 81 (1) of the PFMA, an accounting officer for a department or a constitutional institution commits an act of financial misconduct if that accounting officer wilfully or negligently... makes or permits an unauthorised expenditure, an irregular expenditure, or a fruitless and wasteful expenditure.
“Consequently, Minister Creecy has instructed the department to lodge a high court application for a declaratory order for guidance on how to proceed, given the AGSA audit report,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 09:21
9 views
Govt workshops evolving needs of children in conflict with the law
Govt workshops evolving needs of children in conflict with the law
The Department of Social Development is reinforcing its commitment to protecting children in conflict with the law.
This as it holds a two-day workshop on the regulations of norms and standards for secure care centres. Secure care centres are facilities where children in conflict with the law are placed for holistic intervention and as required by legislation.
The workshop, currently taking place in Pretoria, brings together a diverse panel of experts and practitioners dedicated to enhancing policies and ensuring these facilities evolve to meet the changing needs of children.
This workshop builds on the initial consultations held in August 2024, where provincial and national role players gathered, particularly social workers, secure care centre managers, and coordinators who provided vital insights based on their on-the-ground experiences.
The objective was to assess the Department of Social Development’s blueprint, norms, and standards for secure care centres to improve service delivery and ensure facilities operate at optimal levels.
The recommendations from those engagements are now being carefully examined by experts, including legal specialists, child protection officers, and policymakers. This process ensures that the revised norms and standards are comprehensive, evidence-based, and responsive to the real challenges faced in secure care centres nationwide.
Identifying gaps and strengthening policy
The current norms, formulated in 2010, were designed to address challenges identified at the time, alongside amendments to the Children’s Act (2007). However, as social dynamics change, so do the needs of children in secure care.
Linda Makhathini from the Department of Social Development emphasised the urgent need to update these policies.
“The landscape has changed, and we need to identify gaps in the current norms and craft solutions that address today’s children’s needs.
“The policies of 2010 have served their purpose, and we must now develop new plans that reflect current realities,” Makhathini said.
The workshop is focused on finalising the recommendations and addressing critical gaps in secure care centres, with key areas including:
- Children with disabilities: ensuring facilities and services are adequately equipped.
- Expanding multidisciplinary teams: some facilities are run primarily by social workers, child and youth care workers, and social auxiliary workers. However, additional professionals such as nurses, psychologists, and occupational therapists, among others, are needed.
- Legislative review: considering amendments to the Child Justice Act and the Children’s Act based on identified gaps. The Children’s Act, the Child Justice Act and international instruments are important pieces of legislation that complement and protect children in conflict with the law. International Instruments include the United Convention on the Rights of the Child and the optional protocol to the Convention against Torture, Cruel, Inhuman, Degrading Treatment, or Punishment.
- Infrastructure and operational improvements: addressing the tools of the trade, facility infrastructure, and service delivery enhancements.
- Provision for children with special needs: ensuring inclusivity and adequate resources for all children.
- Infrastructure compliance: ensuring facilities meet legal and operational standards.
- Safety protocols and crisis preparedness: ensuring facilities are ready to handle pandemics and other emergencies.
At the heart of the discussions is the principle that children’s rights include the right to basic care and safety.
The consultations have produced insights from experts across various fields, shaping recommendations for policy revisions.
One such policy revision focuses on managing challenging behaviour. The current norms allow for a child to be placed in isolation for up to two hours. However, in secure care settings, a child may only be separated from others if they pose a danger to themselves or others and for no longer than 24 hours.
During this time, the child must be under the direct supervision of a child and youth care worker, consulted by a social worker to provide support and help them regain control and dignity and lastly be provided with their basic needs, as overseen by the centre manager.
To ensure compliance with human rights standards, a new policy will replace the term “isolation”, which is often associated with solitary confinement, with a different term such as “separation”.
Makhathini also highlighted a benchmarking exercise, led by the Organisational Development Directorate, that will assess best and worst-performing centres to gather insights for future improvements.
A collaborative approach for effective change
Recognising the need for a holistic, multi-sectoral approach, the Social Crime Prevention Directorate has brought together 11 directorates to contribute to these discussions.
Participants include representatives from service standards, child protection, legal services, anti-substance abuse, security, organisational development, and persons with disabilities.
“We cannot take a unilateral approach or work in silos. It is crucial that all these directorates collaborate to ensure every aspect of secure care is addressed,” Makhathini said.
She emphasised the role social workers play in shaping policies, citing that their first experiences within these facilities are informing legislative drafting and shaping the next phase of reforms.
Towards a stronger, more inclusive secure care system
By updating the norms and standards, the Department of Social Development is reaffirming its commitment to protecting and rehabilitating children in conflict with the law.
This process ensures that secure care centres evolve to meet modern challenges, provide essential services, and uphold the rights of every child in need.
With meaningful engagement and collaboration, these reforms will strengthen South Africa’s child protection framework and create a more effective, compassionate system for children in secure care.
The workshop continues today, with recommendations set to be finalised and gazetted for public consultation. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 03/05/2025 - 11:52
249 views
Stakeholders emphasise importance of regulations to combat financial crimes
Stakeholders emphasise importance of regulations to combat financial crimes
The importance of financial accountability and regulatory compliance in protecting non-profit organisations (NPOs) from being exploited for money laundering and terrorist financing came to the fore at the Department of Social Development’s (DSD) stakeholder engagement session.
One of the stakeholders at the session on the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) Recommendation 8, was the Chartered Institute for Business Accountants, who underscored this point.
The institute’s Technical Manager, Eszter Rapanos, outlined key interventions and innovations aimed at aligning regulatory frameworks with the FATF’s latest measures.
The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
Recommendation 8 of the Financial Action Task Force aims to protect NPOs from potential terrorist financing and money laundering abuse through effective implementation of risk-based measures.
She highlighted the institute’s role as a professional body in advancing these measures to protect NPOs from financial crime, emphasising its commitment to upholding financial integrity.
Rapanos addressed the unique challenges faced by South African NPOs, including limited access to technology, insufficient funding, and a lack of financial management skills, which make them particularly vulnerable to financial crimes.
“The risk-based approach must be applied throughout the process, ensuring that high-risk areas are targeted while avoiding unnecessary burdens on compliant NPOs,” she stated.
Among the significant regulatory changes, Rapanos pointed to the new requirement for compulsory registration of NPOs that operate across borders.
READ | Social Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs
In addition, organisations must now maintain detailed records of their beneficial ownership and enhance governance structures to prevent individuals with a history of financial crimes from assuming leadership roles.
“The increased governance and transparency requirements will ensure that NPOs maintain credibility, but it also places additional administrative responsibilities on them,” she noted.
Rapanos stressed that the new framework presents opportunities for collaboration.
“By working closely with regulatory bodies such as the Department of Social Development, the Financial Intelligence Centre, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, and the South African Revenue Service, we can align compliance processes and reduce duplications,” she explained.
The Chartered Institute for Business Accountants’ recommendations include implementing a tiered risk-based approach to compliance, where low-risk NPOs face fewer administrative burdens, while higher-risk organisations undergo more stringent oversight.
Rapanos also called for increased training and capacity-building efforts to help NPOs navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
“The goal is to strike a balance between preventing illicit financial activities and allowing NPOs to continue their essential work without being overburdened by red tape,” Rapanos concluded.
On Monday, the Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks, called on NPOs and the civil society sector to work with government in seeing South Africa exit the FATF’s grey list by year-end.
In his address, Hendricks cautioned government against using legislation to stifle the operations of legitimate NPOs that play a vital role in communities across South Africa.
“Our National Development Plan calls for active citizenry especially from the grassroots level. We must therefore guard overburdening and frustrating grassroots initiatives through the use of legislation.
“The objective of the NPO Act is to create an enabling legislative environment for the NPO sector to thrive and contribute to our national development agenda”, the Deputy Minister said at the time.
READ | Call for NPOs to work with government to address FATF challenges
At Monday’s session in Kempton Park, National Treasury said the FATF was not satisfied with the mere existence of national legislation, but also enforcement of administrative penalties for high-risk NPOs that fail to comply with the provisions of the law.
One of the FATF’s requirements is that Social Development, as the regulator of the NPO sector in terms of the NPO Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022), has to conduct more outreach and educational programmes with NPOs to promote better understanding of the global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.
The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris. It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime. -SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 03/05/2025 - 12:42
343 views
SA condemns Israel’s refusal to allow aid into Gaza
SA condemns Israel’s refusal to allow aid into Gaza
South Africa says it strongly condemns the refusal of Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and its closure of border crossings at a time when the people of Gaza are experiencing immeasurable suffering and urgently need food, shelter, and medical supplies.
This is according to a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) on Wednesday.
According to reports, Israel blocked the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza on Sunday as it demands Hamas agree to a United States plan for a ceasefire extension.
The department said preventing food from entering Gaza is a continuation of Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon of war as part of the ongoing campaign of what the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled to be plausible genocide against the Palestinian people.
“South Africa concurs with Qatar, one of the guarantors of the ceasefire agreement, that halting the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip is a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement, international humanitarian law, and the Fourth Geneva Convention.”
South Africa has since called on the international community to hold Israel accountable and ensure the safe, continuous, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Gaza Strip.
The United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has implored Israel to end its suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza “immediately” and to allow aid to flow without impediment in an environment ensuring the safety and security of civilians, including humanitarian workers.
Guterres has also “urged all parties to make every effort to prevent a return to hostilities in Gaza”, and to find a way forward on the next phase of the ceasefire agreement.
“South Africa also condemns Israel’s ongoing military operations in the West Bank that represent a dangerous escalation, and which further threatens the Palestinian quest for self-determination and statehood.”
According to the department, the forced displacement of 40 000 Palestinians from Jenin, Tulkarem, Nour Shams, and elsewhere threatens to erase Palestinian refugee camps, and the right of return.
“The concurrent ban on the UN Relief and Works Agency’s (UNRWA) activities in these areas constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and strips displaced Palestinians of essential support and international oversight,” the department added.
The department stated that the expanded Israeli military presence, now at its highest levels in the West Bank since 2002, signals an intent to re-establish full-scale military occupation, and undermines the Palestinian Authority and its governance.
“South Africa supports the guarantors’ continued efforts to address the reported violations of the ceasefire agreement.”
The department said the delay in releasing the 620 Palestinian prisoners constitutes a fundamental breach of negotiated terms.
“South Africa once again calls on the international community to act with urgency and decisive action to address the continued systematic violation of international law and international humanitarian and human rights law.”
The department said South Africa welcomes the outcomes of the Arab League Emergency Summit held on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, that supports a settlement in Gaza that is led by, and inclusive of, Palestinians, and that expressly rejects the ethnic cleansing and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza.
The country has also thrown its weight behind the Arab League’s call for a UN international peacekeeping force in the West Bank and Gaza to ensure security and stability.
“South Africa also expresses its grave concern over Israel’s continuing violation of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity by towns South of Damascus and the southern province of Daraa.
“Israel’s depiction of Southern Syria as a ‘security zone’, and statements that any attempt by Syrian government forces to establish themselves in the zone violate Syria’s sovereignty.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/05/2025 - 15:10
46 views
Minister welcomes engagement with His Majesty King Misuzulu
Minister welcomes engagement with His Majesty King Misuzulu
Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Mzwanele Nyhontso, has expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the engagements with His Majesty King Misuzulu KaZwelithini.
The Minister led a delegation which included Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Deputy Minister, Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, CoGTA Portfolio Committee Chairperson, Dr Zweli Mkhize, and senior officials from the department, as part of efforts to resolve the challenges within the Ngonyama Trust Board, which have negatively impacted the Board’s operations.
The Trust was founded to ensure control and ownership of the approximately 2.8 million hectares of communal land in KwaZulu-Natal.
The meeting was held at the KwaKhangelamankengane Royal Palace in KwaNongoma, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday.
The meeting came amid challenges that faced the board, including a recent announcement by King Misuzulu regarding the suspension of the board. These challenges have affected the Trust’s ability to conduct its mandate effectively.
Briefing the media after meeting with King Misuzulu, Nyhontso spoke of his commitment to implement the instructions from His Majesty, which include the establishment of a 12-member committee within seven days.
The committee will be tasked with investigating the Ingonyama Trust's operations and addressing the concerns raised.
“The committee must comprise of persons with legal qualifications and knowledge of Zulu culture, among others,” Nyhontso said.
He said he will report back to His Majesty within a month with the committee’s findings and recommendations.
The Minister re-affirmed his commitment to ensure that the Ngonyama Trust becomes fully functional and continues to provide quality services to the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
The Ingonyama Trust (the Trust) The Ingonyama Trust was established by the KwaZulu-Natal Ingonyama Trust Act No. 3KZ of 1994, with the Ingonyama (King) serving as the sole Trustee.
In 1997, an amendment to the Act created the Trust’s Board, which is responsible for managing Trust land and overseeing its affairs. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:44
103 views
eThekwini Municipality tackles water challenges
eThekwini Municipality tackles water challenges
The eThekwini Municipality will continue to work on various interventions to manage and reduce the increase in water demand that has resulted in the recurring disruption of water supply.
To manage the demand and to build storage, the municipality has implemented rationing in many areas, especially in the Northern and Southern areas.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the municipality noted that demand currently exceeds supply by approximately 100 megalitres a day, resulting in further strain on the system.
This is due to the current curtailment measures that were implemented by uMngeni-uThukela Water in October last year.
“To augment the water supply, comprehensive plans have been set in motion in collaboration with the national Department of Water and Sanitation and uMngeni-uThukela Water to construct and commission the uMkhomazi Dam, a pivotal project to augment water supply to the city,” the municipality said.
The municipality is also actively implementing various medium-term interventions, including infrastructure upgrades, pipeline replacements, and a comprehensive leak detection and repair programme.
The installation of pressure management valves, dysfunctional meter replacements, the incorporation of technology to enhance meter accuracy, and improvements in billing and debtor management, are also being implemented.
“Currently, areas in the West of the city are experiencing intermittent supply due to the shutdown of the 53 Pipeline by uMngeni-uThukela Water. This was done to allow the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to relocate approximately 200m of the 53 Pipeline, as part of its N3 upgrade project,” the municipality said.
Durban’s beachfront set for major overhaul
Meanwhile, Durban’s iconic beachfront is set to undergo a major transformation, with a complete facelift and redevelopment of the buildings along the promenade.
Over the past few years, changes have been made to improve the offering to visitors on the beachfront, ensuring that it remains a world-class facility.
Head of the Real Estate Unit, Thapelo Mmusinyane noted that as tenant leases expire, the municipality follows proper process to invite bids for the development of innovative new spaces and eateries that will elevate the beachfront experience.
This forms an integral part of the City’s Proactive Land Release Strategy, which was adopted in September 2021.
The strategy enables the city to proactively manage surplus land, assisting the city to achieve its developmental objectives, stimulate economic activity and Black economic empowerment, and promoting economic transformation in the property sector.
Mmusinyane explained that between May 2021 and November 2022, 25 properties were put up for bid, with 10 new leases being awarded to companies 100% owned by historically disadvantaged individuals.
“All 10 awards were made to companies that are 100% owned by historically disadvantaged individuals. On the beachfront in particular, properties that have been affected are Circus, Bike and Bean, and Minitown.”
Mmusinyane added that the historic building in which Joe Cools and other eateries are housed, will be upgraded soon by a developer, who will then sublet the space to suitable tenants.
He assured the public that a fair, equitable, and transparent process was followed as stipulated in Section 14(5) of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA).
“This section mandates that the disposal, including leasing of municipal properties must adhere to principles of fairness, equity, transparency, and competitiveness in line with the City’s Supply Chain Management Policy (Section 111 of the MFMA).
“Renewing the leases without an open, competitive process would have violated these principles, as well as Section 217(1) of the Constitution, which upholds the same standards for public procurement. Therefore, lease renewals could not be granted without contravening the law,” he explained. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 14:47
3 views
Call for NPOs to work with government to address FATF challenges
Call for NPOs to work with government to address FATF challenges
As South Africa intensifies efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list by year-end, Deputy Minister of Social Development, Ganief Hendricks, has called on non-profit organisations (NPOs) and the civil society sector to work with government in achieving this goal.
The Deputy Minister made this remark at the start of the three-day multi-stakeholder engagement convened by the Department of Social Development at Premier Hotel OR Tambo, in Kempton Park on Monday.
The engagement is focusing on Recommendation 8 of the Financial Action Task Force, which aims to protect NPOs from potential terrorist financing and money laundering abuse through effective implementation of risk-based measures.
READ | Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8
The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
In his address, Hendricks cautioned government against using legislation to stifle the operations of legitimate NPOs that play a vital role in communities across South Africa.
“Our National Development Plan (NDP, Vision 2030) calls for active citizenry especially from the grassroots level. We must therefore guard overburdening and frustrating grassroots initiatives through the use of legislation.
“The objective of the NPO Act is to create an enabling legislative environment for the NPO sector to thrive and contribute to our national development agenda”, the Deputy Minister said.
The Deputy Minister’s sentiments were echoed by representatives from Kagiso Trust, Afrika Tikkun, Thuthuka Foundation, The Grail Centre Trust and Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA), all of which expressed concerns about “over-regulating the NPO sector”.
Speaking on behalf of the National Treasury, which is the lead government department in addressing all of the FATF’s recommendations, Ismail Momoniat mentioned that while South Africa has made great progress towards exiting the grey list, much more still need to be done with regard to full satisfying FATF’s global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.
“[The] FATF is not satisfied with the mere existence of national legislation, but also enforcement of administrative penalties for high-risk NPOs that fail to comply with the provisions of the law. We need to look beyond FATF’s standards and collectively work towards ensuring a national blueprint on transparency and accountability”, Momoniat said.
The latest report from FATF shows that South Africa has partly met the criteria for Recommendation 8.
One of the FATF’s requirements is that Social Development, as the regulator of the NPO sector in terms of the NPO Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022), has to conduct more outreach and educational programmes with NPOs to promote better understanding of the global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing standards.
Survey
To assess the risks of terror financing in the sector, South Africa conducted a national survey with a sample of 301 registered associations, non-profit companies and public benefit organisations from databases of the Department of Social Development, Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and South African Revenue Service (SARS).
The survey found that NPOs in South Africa were exposed to medium risks from the operations of known terror organisations such as the Islamic State and its affiliates in Africa, al-Shabab and its affiliates in East Africa Boko Haram, amongst others.
Of the 301 NPOs surveyed, 120 were identified as high-risk. The survey found that the nature of risks associated with NPOs in South Africa include but not limited to, NPOs facilitating foreign travel for terrorist causes, using multiple bank accounts, being used as conduit to channel foreign funds to terrorist groups in Africa, supporting terrorist causes through cash and using the internet and online media for fundraising recruitment and propaganda.
The Acting Director of the Financial Intelligence Centre, Advocate Peter Smit emphasised that since FATF Recommendation 8 does not apply to all NPOs, it is important for South Africa to show that the majority of NPOs are not high-risk and therefore should not be subjected to restrictive legislative and administrative requirements.
FATF is scheduled to conduct an onsite visit on Recommendation 8 in South Africa in September this year as part of the periodic reporting requirement to exit the grey list.
The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris. It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.
The second day of the multi-stakeholder engagement will focus on national and international perspectives and the impact of Recommendation 8 on NPOs, as well as sharing of best practice from Uganda, which has successfully been removed from FATF grey list. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 13:56
76 views
Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts
Social Development and BMA to strengthen social services at border posts
The Department of Social Development and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have committed to working together to address gaps in social service delivery at border crossings.
The two bodies held a high-level strategic meeting focusing on implementing the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals.
The meeting examined strengthening the partnerships between the two entities to address essential gaps in social service delivery, particularly in cross-border contexts.
The session, chaired by Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services Lumka Oliphant, explored avenues for collaboration. This included building synergies between social service professionals and border management officials, recognising the vital role social workers play in protecting vulnerable groups including undocumented migrants, victims of human trafficking, and children in need of care and protection.
Amanda Vokwana, the department’s Director of Organisational Development and HR Planning, outlined the strategy for the employment of social workers and other social service professionals.
The strategy was developed as part of a broader government effort to employ 55 000 social service professionals by 2030, in alignment with the National Development Plan.
“This strategy is not just a vision; it is a collective commitment to building a social service sector that is responsive to the needs of our communities. It seeks to address the employment gaps faced by social workers while ensuring that their skills are effectively utilised in both the public and private sectors,” Vokwana said at Friday's meeting.
This as the country continues to face pressing social ills, including poverty, substance abuse, gender-based violence, child-headed households, and human trafficking, she emphasised.
The strategy provides a framework for recruiting, training, and retaining qualified social service professionals to tackle these issues. It also introduces a funding and deployment model to ensure professionals are placed where they are needed most, including in border management operations.
Vulnerable groups
A significant part of the meeting held in Pretoria focused on a proposal for collaboration between the department and the BMA.
The proposal presented by Oliphant underscored the vital need to integrate social workers into the BMA’s operations, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by vulnerable groups.
Oliphant highlighted that, like the South African National Defence Force, the South African Police Service, and the Department of Correctional Services, the Border Management Authority also requires dedicated social workers.
“Border posts are high-risk environments where social vulnerabilities intersect with security concerns.
“Social workers play an essential role in ensuring that individuals, especially children and victims of trafficking, receive the necessary psychosocial support and interventions in line with legislative frameworks,” she explained.
Beyond assisting vulnerable groups, Oliphant stressed that social workers would also be instrumental in supporting the Border Management Authority’s personnel who are frequently exposed to traumatic and high-pressure situations.
“Border officials often deal with emotionally taxing cases, from human trafficking survivors to desperate asylum seekers. Having in-house social workers would provide much-needed psychological support and trauma counselling, ensuring the well-being of both staff and those they serve.
“With the growing complexities of migration and border-related social issues, it is critical that social service professionals are part of border management processes. Their expertise in psychosocial support, child protection, and victim assistance will enhance the effectiveness of our interventions,” she said.
The Deputy Assistant Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Peter Mphilo, acknowledged the financial constraints that have hindered the establishment of an independent social services unit within the agency.
While recognising the initial intent to develop internal capacity, he emphasised the necessity of collaboration with the Department of Social Development and provincial stakeholders.
“We appreciate the assistance and cooperation from the provinces. The demand for social services at our border posts far exceeds supply, and this collaboration is critical in addressing those challenges,” Mphilo said.
Infrastructure
He highlighted the need to assess infrastructure requirements at border posts, focusing on interception procedures, interview facilities, and the seamless handover of vulnerable individuals to inland social services.
“Mapping out the entire process, from the port of entry to final social service intervention, is crucial for us to determine what needs to be funded,” he added.
Regarding funding strategies, Mphilo inquired about the role of donor funding and private sector involvement in the employment of social workers.
He stressed the importance of understanding whether private players directly fund social worker employment or contribute to broader organisational initiatives.
Moving forward, the Border Management Authority aims to refine its strategy by aligning funding mechanisms, infrastructure planning, and service delivery models to support social service professionals operating within border management, effectively.
“We need to be guided in terms of requirements. A phased approach, where we employ one or two social workers per region to provide advisory services, would be beneficial.
“Currently, we rely on provinces for support, but their capacity varies, and assistance does not always arrive on time. Having dedicated social workers within border regions would help bridge this gap.”
Mphilo also emphasised the importance of ensuring compliance with legislative frameworks, particularly the Children’s Act, given that many women who cross borders irregularly do so with children.
The presence of social workers at border posts would help facilitate proper child protection interventions.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its partnership with the department, benefitting from its support, and actively participating in the broader interdepartmental task team to enhance social service provision within border management operations. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 12:03
348 views
Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8
Social Development hosts engagement session on the FATF’s Recommendation 8
As part of South Africa’s ongoing measures to fully implement the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the Department of Social Development is hosting a multi-stakeholder engagement in Kempton Park.
“The objective of the multi-stakeholder engagement is to enhance government, NPOs [non-profit organisations] and key partners’ understanding and requirements of the FATF standards to combat money laundering and terror financing and the implementation of effective national measures to mitigate the risks.
“The fight against money laundering and terrorist financing requires a collective national effort and collaboration among key stakeholders. As the registrar and custodian of the NPO Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act No. 22 of 2022), one of Social Development’s strategic goals is the promotion of strategic partnerships with NPOs to deliver services to communities,” the department said of the three-day engagement that begins today.
The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.
With South Africa due to report back to FATF on the remaining deficiencies in its fifth-round mutual evaluation in June this year, the engagement will bring together government, NPOS, development agencies, donors, private sector, law enforcement agencies and financial institutions.
Stakeholders will focus on Recommendation 8 of the FATF, which aims to protect NPOs from potential terrorist financing and money laundering abuse through effective implementation of risk-based measures.
The formal programme at the three-day engagement will feature presentations, case studies and emerging best practices by experts from key financial institutions and regulators, including the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS), Chartered Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA, National Lotteries Commission and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
These will highlight trends and overview of national measures to combat money laundering and terror financing, as well as the important role of NPOs in combating money laundering and terror financing in South Africa.
The multi-stakeholder engagement builds on measures already underway as South Africa works to finalise outstanding action items from FATF’s recommendations.
South Africa is now deemed to have addressed or largely addressed 20 of the 22 action items in its Action Plan, leaving two items to be addressed in the next reporting period that runs from March 2025 to June 2025. This would enable South Africa to be considered for delisting from the FATF grey list in October 2025.
This as the FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 plenary meeting held in Paris. It developed an Action Plan with 22 Action items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and combating of financial terrorism regime.
Deregistration
This week’s gathering comes at the department has embarked on deregistration of non-compliant NPOs, with 203 279 organisations at the risk of deregistration for failure to comply with the requirements to submit annual reports as per the provisions of section 18 (1) of the Non-Profit Organisations Act (Act No. 71 of 1997, as amended through the General Laws Amendment Act 22 of 2022).
READ | Social Development issues notices of non-compliance to NPOs
The engagement session which is being held at the Premier Hotel OR Tambo will culminate in the adoption of a declaration on combating money laundering and terror financing in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 11:28
239 views
Renewed focus on ECD a critical investment in SA’s future
Renewed focus on ECD a critical investment in SA’s future
An increased focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD) is critical for the future of South Africa.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter.
“Better educational outcomes in basic education are linked to broader social and economic development. Education is a powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty, to uplift individuals and communities, and to bringing about a more equitable society.
“As was evident from the Basic Education Sector Lekgotla [held last week], all stakeholders in the education space are committed to prioritising foundational learning as the most effective means to enable young South Africans to succeed and thrive far into the future,” he said on Monday.
The President highlighted that government has spent the last 30 years “trying to correct” the devastating impact that Bantu Education under Apartheid had on foundational learning.
“This effort has now received greater impetus with the passage of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act. This Act makes Grade R, the reception year before Grade 1, compulsory.
“Through an enhanced focus on ECD, the Act will help ensure that young children are better prepared for formal schooling. Early Childhood Development plays a critical role in developing early literacy, early numeracy and social-emotional skills during an important time in a child’s cognitive development,” he said.
READ | Call to intensify efforts to improve early childhood learning
In the State of the Nation Address in February, President Ramaphosa committed to expanding access to ECD for all children through “registering and formalising existing ECD centres and ensuring that they have the facilities, training and material that they need to provide quality early learning”.
Now, the President reiterated the importance of making ECD more accessible.
“Children who attend quality pre-primary programmes tend to have larger vocabularies, better number awareness, stronger perceptual skills, improved social skills and greater curiosity.
“Quality ECD provision promotes social equality. Children from poor families benefit most from access to ECD. As the learning journey progresses, quality ECD is also linked to better transitions into high school, lower repetition and dropout rates, and better academic performance overall.
“The Basic Education Sector Lekgotla discussed how best to realign the existing education curriculum to strengthen foundational learning, including through ongoing assessments, scaling up teacher training and development, and expanding the provision of ECD learning and teacher support material,” President Ramaphosa emphasised.
The President highlighted that further down the line, basic education must also produce learners who can find work in an evolving world.
“A recent report by the World Economic Forum on the future of jobs shows that the need for science, technology, engineering and mathematics related jobs are fast outstripping ‘traditional’ occupations, which are on the decline in the face of technological advances.
“Our basic education system has to produce learners that are able to find work in an ever-changing knowledge and technology based global economy.
“The efforts of the Department of Basic Education to strengthen the provision of technical and vocational pathways to learners in high school are therefore to be welcomed. Even in more industrialised economies than ours, technical and vocational training is recognised as a solid pathway to employment and entrepreneurship,” President Ramaphosa explained. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 03/03/2025 - 09:20
9 views
Ministry provides update on Foot and Mouth Disease
Ministry provides update on Foot and Mouth Disease
The Ministry of Agriculture has encouraged livestock farmers across the country to limit animal movement as much as possible given the ongoing presence of Foot and Mouth Disease viruses in KwaZulu-Natal.
“The department recently received test results confirming the ongoing presence of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) viruses in KwaZulu-Natal Province. Cattle at a dip tank in Mtubatuba have tested positive for FMD.
“These cattle showed clinical signs of FMD in December, prompting sample collection, and laboratory results confirmed the introduction of a SAT1 FMD virus into the area,” it said in a statement on Friday.
Given that a SAT2 FMD event has been ongoing in the region since 2021, further investigations were conducted, confirming that the detected SAT1 virus is similar to one recently identified in the northern part of the Kruger National Park.
Over the past two weeks, clinical signs of FMD have also been observed in districts around Vryheid and Newcastle Laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of the FMD virus, with virus typing still in progress to determine whether these outbreaks were caused by a SAT1 or SAT2 strain.
Control measures within the Disease Management Area (DMA) remain unchanged.
READ | Minister meets His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini over FMD
The Ministry said the affected dip tanks remain under quarantine, and vaccination efforts in the area continue. The vaccine being used covers all three FMD SAT strains. Dip tanks in newly affected areas have also been placed under quarantine.
“These outbreaks highlight the persistent threat of FMD and the critical need for stringent control measures to prevent its spread. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen stressed the importance of strict compliance with biosecurity protocols and urged farmers and livestock owners to promptly report any suspected cases to veterinary authorities.”
Additionally, it reminded livestock owners that control measures implemented nationwide since October 2022 must be strictly followed to reduce the risk of further spread.
These measures include:
• Cloven-hoofed livestock across South Africa may only be moved if accompanied by a health declaration from the owner, confirming the animals’ health at the time of movement.
• Any newly introduced cattle, sheep, or goats must be kept separate from resident herds for at least 28 days.
“All livestock farmers across the country are strongly encouraged to limit animal movement as much as possible. Auctioneers and livestock owners should be particularly cautious when purchasing cloven-hoofed animals from provinces with active FMD outbreaks. No cloven-hoofed animals should be accepted from areas under FMD restrictions in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga provinces.”
The Ministry added that Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act imposes a legal duty on all animal owners or managers to take reasonable steps to prevent their animals from becoming infected and to prevent the spread of any disease from their animals or property to others.-SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 03/02/2025 - 14:21
119 views
People Trying to Seek Asylum Should Not Be Deported, Court Hears
Human rights organisation wants Refugees Act amendments declared unconstitutional
Court Blocks Former Lottery Official From Receiving Money After Sale of His Luxury Home
The house and other properties he owns were paid for with lottery money
Montana weather event confirmed as a landspout
Montana weather event confirmed as a landspout
Analysis of the recent destructive weather event in Montana, north of Pretoria, has been confirmed as a landspout and not a tornado.
This as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) conducted a thorough analysis of the destructive weather event that took place on Tuesday, 18 February.
“Following the analysis, which included visits to the site of the event and a close study of high-resolution satellite images of the event, among other things, the SAWS has concluded that the event was, in fact, a landspout as opposed to a tornado,” the weather service said on Friday.
In its statement it explained that a landspout develops over land and is generally smaller and weaker. A tornado, on the other hand, is a violent rotating column of air that extends from a thunderstorm and measures less than a few hundred meters in diameter although some are larger than 1 km.
“Tornadoes and landspouts are two small-sized events that the SAWS is working tirelessly to nowcast for the benefit of the public. Unlike with other weather conditions, signs of the potential development of a tornado are very evasive, particularly for landspouts,” it explained.
However, there has been an instance where the SAWS issued a tornado warning before its formation (on Saturday, 30 December 2017) albeit four minutes before it struck.
“Both tornadoes and landspouts have a similar appearance, but their development mechanisms and strengths differ. It is for this reason that the SAWS conducted a thorough analysis across Montana after which it was concluded that the event was a landspout.”
The landspout developed shortly before 5pm local time and affected a short stretch to the busy Sefako Makgato Drive.
From there, it uprooted trees and remained on the one side of the main road. Eyewitnesses estimated that this landspout took less than five minutes before lifting and disappearing.
The trace of its weakened phase was noted towards Zambezi where only tree branches were broken off with a zigzagging motion to the right side and back to the left of the main road.
Here, carport awnings and more roof sheeting were broken, twisted and lofted into the air.
“It is miraculous that, to date, no reports of deaths or injuries have been received.
“The landspout was rated as an EF0 according to the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale for tornado intensity, which is in use internationally. An EF0 event is generally associated with light or minor damage and corresponds to estimated wind speeds of the order of 90 to 130 kmh,” SAWS said.
At the time of the incident, the SAWS had an Orange Level 5 Impact-Based weather warning in place over Gauteng and adjacent provinces for disruptive rainfall and/or localised flooding.
Action to be taken when either a landspout or tornado strike:
• Where possible, quickly get out of the zone to which two thunderclouds are moving. Within such zones, it is almost certain that the wind will be strong and potentially damaging with injurious debris. Community members at the sudden start of a tornado or landspout may be caught by surprise, but each next minute should be used effectively.
• Do not use a tree as shelter when it is positioned in the path of a tornado or landspout.
• Loud sounds associated with tornadic impacts should quickly be used to scan the direction of clouds some distance away from the tornado / landspout. Thereafter, move out of the path of this event before moving opposite the main direction of clouds. Then find refuge.
• When indoors in a formal house, remain in a small room such the bathroom.
• To minimise impact for the shack dwellers, use the inside of small-sized furniture such as a sided wardrobe.
The SAWS said such action validates the saying “save one life, safe the world”.
Situational awareness creates a smooth and continuous defence against potential weather hazards, and it forms part and parcel of the Early Warning for All (EW4All) initiative.
The EW4All was introduced by the United Nations to ensure that everyone on earth is protected from hazardous weather, water, or climate events through lifesaving Early Warning Systems by the end of 2027.
“The public can be rest assured that SAWS, as mandated by the SAWS Act (Act 8 of 2001), will continue to monitor and assess developing weather systems and endeavour to issue weather-related Impact Based Early Warnings in a timely manner,” it said.
Such early warnings are routinely disseminated via mainstream news platforms such as radio, television, printed media as well as the SAWS website www.weathersa.co.za .
Additionally, pertinent information regarding on-the-ground impacts and significant expected weather events are posted on major social media platforms such as X (previously Twitter) @SAWeatherServic, Facebook (South African Weather Service) as well as YouTube. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 02/28/2025 - 11:11
241 views
Budget Speech delay a result of “funding challenges”
Budget Speech delay a result of "funding challenges"
Cabinet has reiterated that the postponement of the tabling of the National Budget from 19 February to 12 March is a result of efforts by Cabinet to collectively address the nation’s funding challenges within a constrained fiscal environment.
Cabinet on Thursday assured South Africans that deliberations within Cabinet on the 2025 National Budget are continuing to determine the best ways to fund the national priorities and ensure that the budget reflects the aspirations of all South Africans.
“The postponement, while it is the first in the history of South Africa, but not out of the norm in other jurisdictions, is still within the provisions of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA),” Cabinet said in a statement after it met on Wednesday.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana was scheduled to outline the financial, economic and social commitments that government would prioritise in its planned expenditure as part of the 2025 Budget Speech.
However, in an unprecedented move, it was postponed for further deliberation.
“The annual budget is tabled by the Minister of Finance but it requires the deliberation of the Cabinet before it is tabled in the National Assembly.
“Cabinet considered that although the tabling of the 2025 budget was scheduled for release at 2pm on 19 February 2025, a postponement is needed to allow for further deliberations to take place on the budget. Cabinet is united in the view that the budget must strike a balance between the interests of the public, economic growth and fiscal sustainability,” Godongwana said at a media briefing after the postponement.
Furthermore, the budget is produced and presented before the National Assembly according to the rules outlined in the Public Finance Management Act.
During the Budget Speech, the Finance Minister indicates the allocation of financial resources to the national government’s priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address.
Quarterly Labour Force Survey
Meanwhile, Cabinet welcomed the upward trajectory in employment creation following the second consecutive drop in the unemployment rate, which marks the lowest rate since the third quarter of 2023.
“The country’s unemployment rate decreased to 31.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 32.1% in the previous quarter. The number of employed people increased by 132 000 to 17.1 million, while the number of unemployed persons decreased by 20 000 to eight million during the same quarter,” Cabinet said.
Employment over the quarter increased in four of the 10 industries surveyed by Statistics South Africa, including finance (232 000), manufacturing (41 000), private households (18 000) and transport (17 000).
“Cabinet affirmed government’s commitment to create jobs with a special focus on youth employment programmes. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme, almost 2.2 million work opportunities have been created for young people,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 13:19
327 views
Government concludes talks on Sectoral Emission Targets
Government concludes talks on Sectoral Emission Targets
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced that the first round of consultations on the Sectoral Emission Targets (SETs) have been concluded, marking an important step forward in the country’s climate action journey.
Published for public comment in May 2024, the SETs are a key component of South Africa’s broader climate change strategy, aligning sector-specific emissions reductions with economic growth and job creation.
“The feedback received through the public consultations has been invaluable, helping to ensure that the Sectoral Emission Targets are both effective in addressing climate change and conducive to sustainable economic development.
“We are committed to ensuring that the final SETs create clear, actionable goals that will foster green innovation, attract investment, and create job opportunities across key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, and agriculture,” the Minister said on Thursday.
Following a thorough review and consultation process, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is now in the process of refining the SETs, incorporating valuable feedback from stakeholders and the public.
This inclusive approach ensures that the targets are not only ambitious but also achievable, providing a balanced pathway that supports both climate objectives and economic resilience.
In March 2025, the revised SETs will be shared with the Minister to initiate Inter-Ministerial discussions, as outlined by section 25(3) of the National Climate Change Act.
“These discussions will focus on aligning the SETs with national development goals, ensuring that South Africa’s climate response supports the creation of jobs in emerging industries while promoting long-term economic growth and accelerating the implementation of existing sectoral policies.
“The SETs will provide a clear framework for sectors to reduce their emissions, which in turn will drive the transition to a low-carbon economy. This transition is expected to create significant employment opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture,” the department said.
The DFFE, under the leadership of Dr George, has asserted its commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that the SETs contribute to building a resilient, low-carbon economy that drives sustainable growth and job creation for all South Africans. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 15:09
60 views
Final countdown for spaza shop owners to register
Final countdown for spaza shop owners to register
The clock is ticking for spaza shop owners and food businesses to register with their municipalities or face legal repercussions.
The deadline for registration is Friday 28 February 2025.
📢 Why shop owners must register now
In November 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that spaza shop owners and food businesses had 21 days to register their businesses with their respective municipalities.
This followed hundreds of cases of foodborne illnesses in parts of the country, where nearly 30 people, including children, passed away after consuming snacks purchased at some spaza shops last year.
SAnews Report | Law enforcement urged to act on shops selling expired food
After the directive was issued by the President in November, an extension was granted for spaza shops and other food handling outlets to register by 28 February 2025, as reported by SAnews.
READ | Deadline for spaza shop registrations extended to February 2025
The directive to register spaza shops is meant to prevent dangerous foodborne illnesses and protect communities.
📍 Where to register
✅Business owners must visit their municipal registration centre on business days only (public holidays & weekends excluded).
✅ Call the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) at 086 010 3703 or 012 748 9600 for support.
🚫 Non-compliance will not be tolerated. Law enforcement and health inspectors will deal with unregistered businesses and ensure strict food safety regulations are followed.
🚨Register today and protect your business, your customers, and your community. - SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 11:02
22 views
Serious Flaws in SASSA System Make it Vulnerable to Fraud
Unclear why same investigators, with unclear qualifications for the job, have presented more or less the same obvious findings to Parliament a second time
Government welcomes provisional outcomes of the media market inquiry
Government welcomes provisional outcomes of the media market inquiry
Government says it acknowledges and welcomes the provisional outcomes of the Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI), led by the Competition Commission of South Africa.
This week, the preliminary report from the commission regarding the MDPMI) garnered attention for its strong recommendation that Google should pay as much as R500 million yearly to compensate South Africa’s news industry.
The commission believes that South Africa should impose a digital tariff of 5% to 10% on major tech companies such as Google, Meta and Microsoft if they fail to fairly compensate media organisations for the content they distribute on their platforms.
The MDPMI began on 17 October 2023 and aims to investigate the characteristics of digital platforms that distribute news media content.
The focus is on identifying features that may hinder, distort, or restrict competition, or that undermine the objectives of the Competition Act.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has since described the inquiry as a crucial step in ensuring a fair and competitive digital media environment that supports the sustainability of local journalism and promotes media diversity.
“The South African media landscape is evolving rapidly, with digital platforms playing an increasingly dominant role in content distribution and advertising revenue,” a statement from the GCIS on Wednesday read.
Adjunct Faculty Member and Head of the GIBS Media Leadership Think Tank, Michael Markovitz, stated that the report aims to address the root causes of anti-competitive behaviour among big tech companies, and seeks to fundamentally reshape the digital market to foster fairer competitive dynamics.
The inquiry assessed the impact of global digital giants on local media businesses, ensuring that South African publishers, broadcasters and digital content creators can compete on a level playing field.
Government - through the GCIS, in partnership with members of the Print and Digital Media Transformation Steering Committee - said it remains committed to supporting an independent, pluralistic and sustainable media sector, recognising its fundamental role in strengthening democracy and ensuring access to diverse sources of information.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, said the GCIS will work with all stakeholders, including media houses, digital platforms, advertisers, and the public on the implementation of the final outcomes of the MDPMI.
“We will also contribute to the solutions proposed for addressing the challenges facing the media sector while unlocking opportunities for innovation and growth,” Morolong said.
The GCIS said the inquiry’s provisional outcome supports efforts for media transformation and sustainability, promoting economic participation and safeguarding public interest journalism, which is vital for a fair and diverse media landscape in South Africa.
White paper
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies, Khusela Diko, has welcomed the recommendations of the provisional report.
Diko believes that the recommendations strengthen the committee’s call for an urgent publication of a White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services and Online Content Safety by the Department of Communication and Digital Technologies (DCDT).
“For a very long time, over-the-top (OTT) digital platforms exploited the regulatory gap in the sector to the detriment of the public broadcaster, the South African Broadcasting Corporation, which operates under stringent regulations. We further welcome the recommendation that media houses be remunerated for the content they produce that gets to be exploited by OTT and digital platforms,” Diko explained.
She further said that the recommendations on Google and YouTube, amongst others, will hopefully serve as a deterrent to everyone that the lack of direct regulation in the sector is not "licencee for unscrupulous business practices". – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/26/2025 - 15:45
81 views