Cabinet

27 February 2025

Budget Speech delay a result of “funding challenges”

Location: News

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
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27 February 2025

Cabinet approves Medium Term Development Plan and National Communication Strategy Framework

Location: News

Cabinet approves Medium Term Development Plan and National Communication Strategy Framework

Cabinet has approved the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) for the period 2024-2029, which outlines key priorities for the 7th administration.

The MTDP builds on the National Development Plan, the Statement of Intent of the Government of National Unity, and the consensus reached during the Cabinet Lekgotla held on 29-30 January 2025.

Additionally, the MTDP incorporates the three strategic priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his Opening of Parliament Adress on 18 July 2024.

“The plan guides government’s initiatives to create a more inclusive country that lives up to the commitments of the Government of National Unity.

“It aims, among others, to ensure inclusive economic growth, reduce unemployment, poverty, and the rising cost of living as well as to ensure a capable, developmental, and ethical state,” Cabinet said in a statement.

National Communication Strategy Framework (NCSF)

Cabinet has also approved the National Communication Strategy Framework (NCSF) for the period 2024-2029 for implementation across all spheres of government.

The NCSF forms part of the ongoing work to consolidate and enhance government-wide communication system, in support of the implementation of the Medium Term Development Plan 2024-2029 as envisaged in the Government Communication Policy, approved by Cabinet in 2018 which is currently under review.

The NCSF responds to the expectation that government communication must be coherent, improve public trust and investor confidence, foster unity and social cohesion and mobilise citizens’ participation.

This is part of ongoing efforts to encourage South Africans to use information to improve their lives and take advantage of socio-economic opportunities to contribute to the development of our country. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 13:37
211 views

27 February 2025

Cabinet confirms appointment of SAA CEO Prof John Lamola

Location: News

Cabinet confirms appointment of SAA CEO Prof John Lamola

Professor John Lamola has been appointed as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of South African Airways (SAA) for two years, Cabinet said on Thursday.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni made the announcement at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Cape Town.

For her part, the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy congratulated Lamola on his appointment.

“The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, has congratulated Prof John Lamola on his appointment as Group Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, as approved by Cabinet on Wednesday, the 26th of February 2025,” the Department of Transport said in a statement.

Minister Creecy said that over the past two years, Lamola, in his capacity as acting CEO, has steered SAA to conclude three years of outstanding audits and in the 2023 financial year to declare profits after many years of not doing so.

“In addition, under his leadership, the entity has expanded to fly domestic, regional, and international routes,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 14:28
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27 February 2025

Cabinet sends best wishes for injured SANDF troops

Location: News

Cabinet sends best wishes for injured SANDF troops

Cabinet has extended its heartfelt wishes for a quick recovery to all soldiers returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) who are currently receiving medical treatment in South Africa.

“Cabinet expressed its well wishes for a speedy recovery for all 1returned injured soldiers who are now receiving medical treatment in South Africa, the home soil,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

This as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) announced earlier in the week that the remaining wounded troops in need of medical attention had been successfully repatriated from the DRC and would now receive necessary care and support.

READ | Critically injured soldiers in DRC brought back home

The injured soldiers have been categorised into three priority areas for care – critical, non-critical, and those requiring psychological and social interventions.

This is after 14 troop members lost their lives and others sustained injuries at the hands of the M23 as fighting in the Goma region escalated.

The rebel group fought intensely against the Congolese armed forces, resulting in the deaths of soldiers from 23 to 27 January during M23’s advance on Sake and Goma.

These soldiers were part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which aims to help restore peace, security, and stability in Africa’s second-largest country.

At a post-Cabinet briefing in Cape Town, Ntshavheni announced that the Executive supports the resolutions from both the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) concerning the eastern DRC.

The AUPSC endorsed decisions from the Joint East African Community (EAC) and SADC meeting, which called for an immediate ceasefire, safe humanitarian routes, the withdrawal of uninvited forces, respect for territorial integrity, and the inclusion of all actors in the joint Luanda-Nairobi political dialogue.

“UNSC resolution urged all parties – State and non-State actors in the eastern DRC to conclude an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as called for by leaders of the EAC and SADC.”

According to the Minister, the resolution further demands that M23 rebel groups withdraw from the territories they have seized in the eastern DRC and called on the Rwanda Defence Forces to stop supporting the armed group and immediately withdraw from Congolese territory “without preconditions.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 13:38
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27 February 2025

Cabinet welcomes progress on Eskom recovery efforts

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes progress on Eskom recovery efforts

Cabinet has welcomed an update on Eskom’s ongoing efforts to restore stability to the country’s national power supply, including additional capacity to the grid.

This follows unforeseen incidents at multiple power stations that led to the implementation of load shedding that began at the weekend.

Addressing a post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni explained that the highly unusual and unrelated incidents at the weekend resulted in a rapid depletion of reserve margins.

They included an electrical fault at Majuba power station, the loss of cooling water pumps at Camden power station and unit loss at Medupi power station.

“Cabinet noted that the upcoming addition of 1 600 megawatts with the synchronisation of Kusile Unit 6 scheduled for 9 March 2025 and Medupi Unit 4 at the end of March 2025 will further bolster our nation’s energy supply,” Ntshavheni said.

Cabinet also acknowledged the swift response by Eskom’s technical team to recover 4 800 MW with four of the five tripped units at Majuba having returned to the grid and two of four tripped units returned at Camden by 8pm on Sunday.

Despite the setback, Cabinet has noted that steady progress has been made in improving generation capacity and maintaining a reliable electricity supply.

From 1 April 2024 to 20 February 2025, load-shedding was suspended for 323 days, compared to 32 days in the same period last year. Electricity supply was available 99% of the time compared to just 9.8% last year.

Eskom suspended load shedding on Wednesday morning.

READ | Eskom suspends load shedding

“We maintain our guidance that load shedding is largely behind us due to structural improvements in the generation fleet. Our focus remains on eliminating load shedding as a structural constraint on the economy.

“There will be valuable lessons to be learned from the set of multiple unit trips that were unconnected and purely technical in nature related to electrical and control system issues within auxiliary parts of our power stations,” said the utility’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane said in a statement at the time.– SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 13:28
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27 February 2025

Cabinet approves submission of AfCFTA Protocol to Parliament

Location: News

Cabinet approves submission of AfCFTA Protocol to Parliament

Cabinet has approved the submission of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade to Parliament for ratification.

The protocol aims to enhance the participation of women and youth in trade under the AfCFTA, and it outlines specific objectives such as helping women and youth traders to effectively participate in the market.

It also strives to foster value addition and innovation for increased imports and exports by women and youth as well as their inclusion in regional and continental value chains.

“The protocol also advocates for measures to eliminate discrimination, promote equality and inclusivity to ensure that women and youth benefit from trade opportunities,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni told reporters on Thursday.

At the media briefing held following Cabinet’s meeting on Wednesday, the Minister said that other significant provisions of the protocol include eliminating non-tariff barriers affecting women and youth in trade, promoting their participation in policy formulation, and improving their access to finance.

“The protocol is expected to support women and youth in trade to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and enhance their inclusive participation in intra-Africa trade.

Additionally, Cabinet has also approved the submission of the Protocol on Competition Policy under the AfCFTA to Parliament for ratification.

The protocol is an agreement by African Union (AU) member states to ensure that competition on the continent contributes to trade, inclusive growth, industrialisation and sustainable economic development.

The protocol focuses on preventing anti-competitive practices by providing a framework for addressing market concentration, abuse of power and other competition-related issues.

“The AU acknowledges that the absence of continental competition policies results in anti-competitive practices such as cartels and monopolies that abuse their market position,” said the Minister.

Cabinet said the protocol will apply to all economic activity within the AfCFTA market and will target anti-competitive practices including international and cross-border cartels that are not effectively regulated, as well as competitive practices initiated by larger enterprises operating outside the continent. -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 12:33
39 views

27 February 2025

Cabinet welcomes reduction in crime levels

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes reduction in crime levels

While South Africa’s crime levels remain unacceptably high, Cabinet has welcomed the decline in some categories of the country’s crime statistics.

“While overall levels of crime continue to remain unacceptably high, the decline shows that interventions by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to make South Africa safer are making a difference,” Cabinet said in a statement on Thursday.

In its statement following its meeting on Wednesday, Cabinet stated that “Fighting crime is a shared responsibility between the police, the community and the business sector.”

This as the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu presented the Quarterly Crime Statistics for the third quarter of the current financial year (1 October 2024 – 31 December 2024) on Friday.

The stats showed that there had been a decline across multiple crime categories, including a notable decline in carjackings and robberies.

The third quarter showed a 9.8% decrease in murder, a 3.3% reduction in rape, and a 3.2% drop in attempted sexual offences

At the time, the Minister said that while there was a reduction in several categories, more still needs to be done to reduce the country’s crime levels.

“We are positioning ourselves accordingly in terms of policing whilst we continue our work throughout the whole country,” Mchunu said.

READ | Crime Stats reveal reduction in some categories of crime

On Thursday, Cabinet called on South Africans to play their part in the fight against crime by reporting any criminal activity to their nearest police station or calling the Crime Stop number: 08600 10111.

Mchunu appealed to communities to work hand in hand with law enforcement. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/27/2025 - 12:14
63 views

24 February 2025

Government continues working for the people, despite Budget postponement

Location: News

Government continues working for the people, despite Budget postponement

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the events of last week present an opportunity to raise the level of understanding among South Africans around the budget and what it means for them.

This as the annual Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance was postponed last week for the first time in the nation’s democratic history.

“As GNU [Government of National Unity] partners, we will continue working for the South African people. As we have done in the past to overcome differences, we will once again find one another.

“The considerable public interest around the Budget Speech, including from young people and on social media platforms, was greatly encouraging. It is our hope that this sparks a necessary national conversation on how we will fund our national priorities and the trade-offs that will need to be made,” the President said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.

Cabinet decided to postpone the presentation of the budget to allow further discussion on areas of disagreement among parties in the GNU. The budget will now be tabled in Parliament on 12 March 2025.

READ | Budget postponed for further deliberations

“The last-minute postponement was unfortunate. It gave rise to concern and uncertainty among South Africans, investors and the financial markets, who look to the Budget for important signals about the state and direction of our economy,” the President said.

He further highlighted that the budget reflects government’s choices and priorities for the country’s development.

“Decisions on how to spend public funds have implications for every South African. It is therefore essential that the concerns raised by different parties around the budget are properly addressed, in the interests of accountability, transparency and consensus-building,” he said.

President Ramaphosa noted that this is the first time that the budget is being presented by the Government of National Unity. He said that it is understandable that this new arrangement would require a different approach in some respects.
He told the nation that the process of forging agreement among the political parties in the GNU is still work in progress.

“Disagreements, contradictions and policy divergence are inherent in governments made up of several political parties.

“It has been more than six months since the formation of the GNU. Despite disagreement between parties on a range of matters, the centre holds. It is a sign of a healthy and robust democracy that such differences may emerge from time to time and be ventilated in public.

“Such differences don’t mean that the GNU is in crisis. It means that democracy is working. A Government of National Unity by definition infers consensus-building. No one party can impose its will. There needs to be thorough deliberation and meaningful engagement,” the President explained.

Public confidence

He added that the decision to postpone the Budget Speech and to continue discussions should engender public confidence in the GNU. It should reassure citizens that despite differences of opinion, government is pulling in the same direction.

He further added that the reality is that government strives to implement national priorities in a context of slow growth, limited revenue, high unemployment and a large social wage. The state is simply not able to fund every priority and ambition.

The President emphasised that the critical issue of the public purse must be a subject of discussion and debate not just among political parties, but among all South Africans who aspire to lead lives of dignity.

“The social contract between government and the citizenry relies heavily on accountability and transparency. These have been features of our budgetary process since the advent of democracy.

“The formation of the GNU was the result of the desire by the South African people that political parties work together to move the country forward.

“As we continue to do so, we are adapting and strengthening our existing frameworks for cooperation, partnership and building consensus. We are learning, we are adjusting to new circumstances and we are moving forward,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 10:16
68 views

21 February 2025

Cabinet calls for national unity against misinformation and external pressure

Location: News

Cabinet calls for national unity against misinformation and external pressure

Cabinet has urged all South Africans to stand united in defending the country against a growing wave of misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda aimed at distorting government efforts and sow division among citizens.

Cabinet said this in a statement on Friday, following a Cabinet meeting held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting held on 29 January 2025.

“We must not allow false narratives to divide us. We are a resilient nation that has more in common, and our history has demonstrated that there is no challenge we cannot overcome when we pull together.

“We are called on to stand for the love for our country, which is rooted in our democratic values of non-racialism, tolerance, compassion, peace, justice, equality, freedom and human dignity,” Cabinet said.

Reflecting on South Africa’s historical struggle for justice, Cabinet reaffirmed that the nation cannot turn a blind eye to human rights violations perpetuated around the world, nor can it ignore the less fortunate people who require its voice to ease their suffering.

Cabinet further reiterated President Ramaphosa’s strong stance in his recent State of the Nation Address, where he emphasised that South Africa would not be bullied or coerced by external pressures.

“South Africa belongs to all who live in it, and we are united in our diversity. Let us speak with one voice in defence of our national interests, sovereignty and constitutional democracy.

“Together, we are building a nation that encourages dialogue, fosters social cohesion and embraces all people, regardless of race,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:01
223 views

21 February 2025

Cabinet briefed on implications of aid funding withdrawal

Location: News

Cabinet briefed on implications of aid funding withdrawal

Cabinet says it has been briefed about the withdrawal of aid funding by the United States (US) government and its implications for South Africa, particularly on the HIV/AIDS and TB programmes.

In a statement issued on Friday, Cabinet said government was aware of the suspension of this withdrawal for a period of 90 days while the US Government reviews its position.

“Cabinet wishes to assure all South Africans that government will not allow a situation that leads to defaulting by any South African participating in the HIV/AIDS prevention and management programme,” the statement said.

South Africa runs the largest HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, treatment and management programme across 52 districts at the total cost of R46.8 billion in the 2024/25 financial year.

The US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), supported by the US Agency for International Development, is responsible for only 17% of this budget across 27 districts in eight provinces.

“The government of South Africa funds 90% of the antiretroviral procurement and Global Fund is responsible for funding 10% of this cost. In this regard, PEPFAR funds are only used for the salaries and operational costs of the people they appointed directly in the 27 districts,” Cabinet said.

The statement was issued following a Cabinet Meeting on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 29 January 2025. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:07
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21 February 2025

Cabinet reiterates SA’s commitment to ensuring stability in the DRC

Location: News

Cabinet reiterates SA’s commitment to ensuring stability in the DRC

Cabinet has reiterated South Africa’s commitment to a diplomatic solution that ensures stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while also protecting the well-being of the Congolese people.

In a statement on Friday, Cabinet paid tribute to the 14 gallant South African soldiers who were killed recently in the DRC while undertaking a United Nations (UN)-backed peacekeeping mission.

“These brave soldiers had been deployed in the country as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) and the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO),” Cabinet said following its meeting on 12 February and a Special Cabinet meeting on 29 January.

Cabinet affirmed that South Africa would continue to play its peacekeeping mission role and support other African countries whose solidarity, and material support helped secure the country’s liberation.

Cabinet was updated on the recent developments in the eastern DRC and called on all parties to embrace current diplomatic efforts aimed at finding a peaceful resolution.

The parties were also called to adhere to calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and restoration of essential utilities.

Cabinet further welcomed efforts by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders, aimed at finding a resolution to the conflict and facilitating the repatriation of the deceased and injured soldiers of South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania.

The remains of the 14 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who died in the eastern DRC were returned home last week and handed over to their families during a memorial service, held at Swartkop Air Force Base in Centurion.

READ | Fallen soldiers paid the ultimate price

“The outcome of the Heads of State Summit held in Tanzania on 8 February 2025 on the conflict also provides a beacon of hope for the troubled eastern DRC,” Cabinet said.

READ | SADC-EAC leaders call for dialogue in DRC conflict
– SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:13
315 views

21 February 2025

Grant beneficiaries urged to replace expiring SASSA Gold Cards

Location: News

Grant beneficiaries urged to replace expiring SASSA Gold Cards

Cabinet has called on all social grant beneficiaries to replace their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards by the 20 March 2025 deadline.

In a statement on Friday, Cabinet said this is to ensure that beneficiaries continue to access their SASSA grant payments without disruption.

“Social grant beneficiaries can go to their nearest Postbank site located at retailers such as Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer to get their Postbank Black Card," Cabinet said.

After the 20 March 2025 deadline - which was extended from the initial 28 February deadline - SASSA Gold Cards will no longer function at ATMs and retailers.

The call follows concerns among grant recipients about the looming expiry of the SASSA Gold Cards and potential payment delays.

Postbank, which administers the social grant payment system, has however assured beneficiaries that the transition to the new Postbank Black Card is simple and free of charge.

The move is part of Postbank’s broader efforts to modernise and secure the grant payment system, following past disruptions caused by fraud, card cloning, and system failures.

By migrating to the new cards, beneficiaries can expect improved security and reliability when accessing their grants.

Postbank has deployed additional support at designated retailers and SASSA offices to assist with the replacement process, urging beneficiaries to make the switch before the deadline to avoid any inconvenience.

The agency has previously said that Postbank has also made it easy for beneficiaries to locate the nearest place in every province where they can collect their Postbank Black Cards.

All they need to do from the comfort of their homes is to use their cellphone and:

Dial: *120*218*3#
To continue, reply by pressing number: 1; and
Reply with the number representing the province they live in.

To get the new Postbank Black Cards, beneficiaries are required to have a valid South African ID, or a temporary ID. Beneficiaries are urged to be aware that no card will be issued without these documents.

Ensuring that minimum documentation is required to get the new Postbank Black Cards is in line with SASSA and Postbank's ongoing commitment to continuously improve the customer experience of all social grant beneficiaries.

The Postbank Black Cards will be issued free of charge. For further enquiries, beneficiaries can contact Postbank on 0800 53 54 55 or SASSA on 0800 60 10 11. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:21
324 views

21 February 2025

Cabinet commends police efforts to combat illegal mining

Location: News

Cabinet commends police efforts to combat illegal mining

Cabinet has commended the South African Police Service efforts to combat illegal mining through Operation Vala Umgodi, which has resulted in over 18 000 arrests since December 2023.

Cabinet highlighted that about 1 700 illegal miners were arrested from August 2024 in Stilfontein.

“The [arrests] include the seizure of 458 firearms, 12 000 rounds of ammunition, 283 trucks, 303 vehicles and 84 big machineries from illegal mining. R5 million in cash and uncut diamonds worth R32 million were also seized,” Cabinet said in a statement on Friday, following a Cabinet meeting, held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on 29 January 2025.

Cabinet also welcomed ongoing efforts by law-enforcement agencies in the fight against illegal mining, as Operation Vala Umgodi is rolled out to various parts of the country.

Cabinet further commended the arrest of four police officers suspected of aiding the escape of illegal mining kingpin, Neo James Tsoaeli, also known as ‘Tiger’.

It emphasised that police officers must always maintain the highest standards of professional ethics and remain beyond reproach.

“Cabinet calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure that those involved in such corrupt activities are held accountable and get the harshest possible sentence,” Cabinet said.

Operation Vala Umgodi is a multidisciplinary initiative focused on combating illicit mining activities that threaten South Africa's vital mineral resources. The operation also plays a key role in addressing various other criminal activities, providing crucial support to operational members at both district and provincial levels. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:38
166 views

21 February 2025

Cabinet commends Class of 2024 for impressive results

Location: News

Cabinet commends Class of 2024 for impressive results

Cabinet has commended the Class of 2024 for achieving the highest matric pass rate since the advent of democracy in 1994.

The National Senior Certificate (NSC) results saw an impressive 87.3% pass rate, marking a significant 4.4% increase from the previous year.

A total of 615 429 learners successfully passed the NSC examinations, with nearly half of those who sat for the exams obtaining a Bachelor pass, granting them access to higher education institutions. Additionally, close to 320 000 distinctions were achieved, highlighting the academic excellence of the matriculants.

Government lauded the results as a significant milestone in the country’s education sector, emphasising that the achievements of the Class of 2024 reflect the strides made in improving the quality of education in South Africa.

These results coincide with the country’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, symbolising the ongoing efforts to dismantle the remnants of apartheid-era educational disparities.

“The achievements of the Class of 2024 are a clear demonstration of the progress we have made as we commemorate 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy. They also provide proof that we are reversing apartheid’s planned legacy of intergenerational indignity, disadvantage and poverty for the majority of South Africans," Cabinet said in a statement on Friday.

South Africa's education system has undergone significant reforms since 1994, with the government implementing policies aimed at improving access to quality education for all learners.

Under the National Development Plan (NDP), education remains a key pillar in addressing inequality and fostering economic growth.

Over the years, interventions such as the provision of no-fee schools, the school nutrition program, improved infrastructure, and curriculum enhancements have contributed to the steady improvement in matric results.

The increased focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, teacher training programs, and digital learning initiatives has also played a crucial role in raising learner performance.

Despite these successes, challenges remain, including resource disparities between urban and rural schools, socio-economic factors affecting learner performance, and the need to further enhance post-matric opportunities.

However, the Class of 2024’s results demonstrate resilience and a positive trajectory for the country’s education system.

Government has previously urged learners who did not pass to explore alternative pathways such as the Second Chance Matric Programme and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to ensure they remain within the education and skills development pipeline. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 12:00
30 views

21 February 2025

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility!

Location: News

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility!

Cabinet has urged all road users to drive responsibly and for traffic officials to hold transgressors of the rules of the road to account.

This comes after the preliminary statistics for the 2024/25 Festive Season Road Safety campaign showed that road fatalities, which are often a result of human behaviour, continue to plague the country.

“A total of 87% of crashes over the festive period were a result of human behaviour, which included hit-and-runs, jay-walking, fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speeding, drunken driving and reckless overtaking.

“These tragic road accidents ruin innocent lives, shatter families and cost our economy billions of rands a year,” Cabinet said in a statement released on Friday.

The statement was released after the Cabinet meeting of Wednesday, 12 February 2025 and the Special Cabinet meeting of Wednesday, 29 January 2025. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:57
72 views

21 February 2025

Cabinet supports bold vision outlined by President’s SONA

Location: News

Cabinet supports bold vision outlined by President's SONA

Cabinet has called on all sectors of society to support the initiatives announced by the President Cyril Ramaphosa during his State of the Nation address earlier this month.

Cabinet said this in a statement on Friday following a Cabinet meeting held on 12 February 2025 and a special Cabinet meeting on 29 January 2025.

“Cabinet calls on all sectors of society to support the initiatives announced by the President in his 2025 SONA and partner with government as we set our nation on a trajectory for the year ahead,” Cabinet said in a statement.

Cabinet also expressed its support for the bold vision of creating a nation where all South Africans share in its prosperity and opportunities, as outlined by President Ramaphosa.

“The President called on all South Africans to unite in action to reignite our collective vision and shared passion to build a South Africa that works for everyone. Through the planned National Dialogue, we will chart our nation’s course and forge a common vision for our country’s future,” Cabinet said.

The statement highlighted that the new Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) guides government’s initiatives to create a more inclusive country that lives up to the commitments of the Government of National Unity.

The MDTP aims, among others, to reduce unemployment, poverty and the rising cost of living as well as combat crime and corruption.

“The massive R940 billion investment drive announced by President Ramaphosa in new infrastructure and the upgrading of existing infrastructure over the next three years, puts infrastructure development at the heart of our country’s economic growth and job creation,” Cabinet said.

The address outlined a clear path to tackle the challenges experienced at local municipalities, particularly in the maintenance of essential infrastructure. It also detailed intensive interventions to deal with the country’s water challenges, including the expansion of water infrastructure by investing R23 billion into seven large water infrastructure projects.

President Ramaphosa outlined government’s commitment to support the well-being of South Africans through various social support initiatives in health, education, social protection, community development and public employment programmes, with around 60 percent of our national budget spent on the social wage.

“The President affirmed our nation’s sovereignty and constitutional democracy, and South Africa’s position to advance the well-being of humanity, and those around the world who continue to experience colonialism and oppression,” Cabinet said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:34
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21 February 2025

South Africa’s National Astro-Tourism Strategy

Location: News

Department of Science and Innovation, Republic of South Africa
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On Tuesday, 18 February, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, supported by Ms. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Ms. Maggie Sotyu, Deputy Minister of Tourism, led the presentation of South Africa's National Astro-Tourism Strategy to Parliament.

Last year, the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Patricia De Lille, tabled the National Astro-Tourism Strategy in Cabinet. Subsequent to this, in September last year, Cabinet approved this Strategy and in the same month, Minister De Lille and Minister Nzimande presided over the launch of this Strategy in Carnarvon in the Northern Cape.

This past Tuesday, this Strategy was presented at a joint sitting of the Portfolio Committees of Science, Technology and Innovation and Tourism.

In highlighting the strategic importance of astronomy and tourism to South Africa, Minister Nzimande stated that “South Africa is fast becoming one of the leading nations in the discipline of astronomy and this is why in August last year, we hosted the prestigious General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union. This was first time this prestigious gathering was hosted on the African continent.

Equally, we also have a very robust tourism sector as a country, which is a major contributor to GDP and is expected to grow significantly over the next 5 to 10 years.”

Minister Nzimande also used the briefing to highlight some of South Africa's most notable investments in astronomy infrastructure, during the democratic era, which include the 10-metre Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland, which is the largest optical telescope in the Southern Hemisphere.

The MeerKAT telescope in Carnarvon, which is a precursor to the SKA project, which he said was “going to be South Africa's single biggest scientific infrastructure.”

Outlining the benefits of these investments, Minister Nzimande indicated that "the investments in these high calibre scientific instruments in astronomy enabled an exponential increase in the number of South African astronomers from 60 (only 5 of them were radio astronomers) to about 300 in the last 30 years.”

The Minister Nzimande also used the opportunity to explain what astro-tourism was and further outlined the objectives of South Africa's Astro-Tourism Strategy.

The Minister stated that “… science tourism involves experiences enjoyed when visiting scientific attractions such as scientific landmarks, including museums, laboratories, observatories, and higher educational institutions where research is conducted.

It is also important to realise that astro-tourism is built around the traditions inherited from our ancestors by different ethnic cultures in observing the skies from time immemorial. Astro-tourism therefore draws heavily from the vast and untapped reservoirs of our indigenous knowledge systems.

Astro-tourism also encompasses all offerings such as observatories, telescopes, museums, planetariums, meteorite sites, visitor centres, amateur astronomy clubs, stargazing, tour-guides, astro-routes, and accommodation establishments, etc.”

In outlining the strategic importance of the Astro-Tourism Strategy, Minister Nzimande stated that “We regard science and tourism as mutually reinforcing and therefore building on our competitive advantages in astronomy and tourism, we seek to use the Astro-Tourism Strategy to achieve the following:

Enhance the performance of South Africa's astronomy tourism sector through infrastructure developments and improvements, optimal functioning of various streams of astronomy with tourism offerings and boosting transformation by enhancing the livelihoods of local communities;
Position South Africa as a world class Astro tourism destination that will yield sustainable benefit-sharing opportunities by maximising appropriate investments, improving marketing efforts, and enhancing visitor experience in South Africa;
Educate communities about the importance of preserving our dark skies and radio silence as this is a geographic advantage that needs to be protected for astrotourism to thrive; and
Most importantly, we also seek to use this strategy to drive meaningful socio-economic development within poor and rural communities, through science tourism.”

The Strategy is anchored on three pillars, which are: indigenous celestial narratives and human capacity development; infrastructure development; and inclusive tourism growth and partnerships – and requires an estimated budget of over R352 million.

The implementation of the Astro-Tourism Strategy is the joint responsibility of the Departments of Science, Technology and Innovation and Tourism, which have established a Steering Committee that comprises officials from both departments, the Northern Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

The DSTI's entity, the National Research Foundation (NRF) and its sub entities the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), also form part of this Steering Committee.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Science and Innovation, Republic of South Africa.

19 February 2025

Cabinet deliberations will deliver a budget that “works for all”

Location: News

Cabinet deliberations will deliver a budget that “works for all”

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in a statement on Wednesday evening moved to assure the nation that Cabinet’s continuing deliberations on the 2025 Budget will deliver outcomes that will protect vulnerable citizens and lay a platform for economic growth.

This as Cabinet on Wednesday postponed the tabling of the 2025 Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana to 12 March 2025.

The Minister was scheduled to outline the financial, economic, and social commitments that the government would prioritise in its planned expenditure as part of the 2025 Budget Speech in the National Assembly at 2pm.

However, in an unprecedented move, it was postponed for further deliberation.

President Ramaphosa said the postponement of the tabling of the Budget in Parliament “was the result of disagreement but also collegial and mature consensus within Cabinet that Budget proposals be worked through comprehensively and productively to secure the wellbeing of the economy and individual citizens”.

“We are called upon as the national leadership to pursue all initiatives aimed at growth in order for us to increase employment and alleviate the effects of poverty.

“The Government of National Unity will in the coming days and week intensify our efforts to balance the imperatives that drive the fundamental growth objectives of this administration with the realities of a constrained fiscal environment.

“We are working as partners to ensure that the Budget is one that works for individuals and investors alike,” said the President in the statement.

He provides a detailed plan for 2025 spending, including proposals for revenue collection to help fund the government’s planned interventions and commitments.

The Budget Speech, among others, aims to balance economic growth and support for the vulnerable in our society despite limited resources. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 19:26
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19 February 2025

2025 Budget: Close out period extended to 12 March

Location: News

2025 Budget: Close out period extended to 12 March

National Treasury says the embargo on budget documents made available to certain members of the media and economists during the budget lock-up until the Minister was to start his Budget Speech on 19 February 2025, is lifted and reporting thereon is allowed.

“However, officials of the National Treasury will not be providing comments or responding to queries related to the budget documents originally scheduled for release on 19 February 2025,” said Treasury in a statement.

This comes after the Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheniand the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana announced that the tabling of the 2025/26 annual budget, scheduled for 19 February 2025, was postponed to 12 March 2025.

“The close out period that was expected to end on 19 February 2025 is extended until 12 March 2025 in line with the National Treasury’s investor engagement strategy.”

Treasury said during this period, there would be no senior officials available as preparation of the publication of the 2025 budget will be underway.

In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa said Cabinet’s continuing deliberations on the 2025 Budget would deliver outcomes that will protect vulnerable citizens and lay a platform for economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 19:39
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19 February 2025

Budget postponed for further deliberations

Location: News

Budget postponed for further deliberations

Cabinet has postponed the tabling of the 2025 Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana to 12 March 2025.

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.

Furthermore, the budget is produced and presented before the National Assembly according to the rules outlined in the Public Finance Management Act.

“Section 27 of the Public Finance Management Act requires that the annual budget be tabled prior to the start of the financial year or in exceptional circumstances on a date as soon as possible after the start of the financial year as the Minister of Finance may determine

“Therefore, further discussions in Cabinet will take place in preparation for a new amended or a new budget to be tabled on 12 March 2025,” the Minister said.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the request for a postponement was a Cabinet decision.

He provides a detailed plan for 2025 spending, including proposals for revenue collection to help fund the government’s planned interventions and commitments.

The Budget Speech, among others, aims to balance economic growth and support for the vulnerable in our society despite limited resources. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 16:32
54 views

19 February 2025

Budget Postponement Is a “Blessing in Disguise” Says COSATU

Location: News

Hundreds marched in Cape Town ahead of budget announcement

19 February 2025

Budget speech postponed

Location: News

Budget speech postponed

In an unprecedented moment for the South African Parliament and the country, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza announced this afternoon, that the tabling of the Budget Speech for 2025/26 has been postponed to a later date.

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana was due to deliver the budget speech in Parliament on Wednesday afternoon.

“I have just had a consultation with all the Whips of parties following a consultation with the leader of government business. In terms of rule 48 sub-section 2, we have decided to adjourn proceedings for a date to be determined by the programming committee. This is in accordance with rule 10.

“Before we started the session, we were informed by the leader of government business…that while we have gathered here to have the Minister of Finance presenting the budget to this august House, there has not been agreement in terms of parties in the executive to actually find one another in proposals of the budget…about where there are possible increases.

“Cabinet therefore decided not to come and do a presentation of the budget and allow themselves enough time to relook at the budget and come back to this House in March at the time at which they will inform us,” she said.

Didiza explained the Chief Whips of the political parties in Parliament met to discuss the way forward.

“It is something that is unprecedented, but I do think it is correct that when such situations happen, we need to collectively think on the best way forward,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 14:45
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16 February 2025

SA, EU to co-chair Ministerial Political Dialogue

Location: News

SA, EU to co-chair Ministerial Political Dialogue

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, will co-chair the 16th Ministerial Political Dialogue between South Africa and the European Union (EU) on Wednesday, 19 February 2025, in Cape Town.

Lamola will be joined by Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission.

Lamola will also be accompanied by various Cabinet Ministers from South Africa.

“South Africa and the EU enjoy a strategic relationship characterised by multi-dimensional bilateral cooperation, which is long-standing and mutually beneficial,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIrCO) said in a statement.

Diplomatic relations between South Africa and the EU were officially established in December 1993, just before the onset of South Africa's new democratic era.

In 1999, the Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA) was established to create a framework for strengthening and diversifying bilateral cooperation.

This has been achieved through enhanced political dialogue, collaboration in trade and trade-related areas, economic cooperation, technical assistance and development cooperation.

“The TDCA also established a political dialogue between South Africa and the EU at the Ministerial level, serving as a mechanism to review progress on various areas of bilateral cooperation and discuss enhancing cooperation on regional and global developments of mutual interest.”

To date, the department has reported that seven summit meetings have taken place since 2007, with the next one scheduled for 13 March 2025.

The 16th MPD meeting is therefore well-timed to prepare for the upcoming eighth summit meeting, which will be hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 02/16/2025 - 13:41
56 views

13 February 2025

SA spent R7.7 billion on alcohol over the December holidays

Location: News

SA spent R7.7 billion on alcohol over the December holidays

Social Development Deputy Minister Ganief Henricks has told the portfolio committee on Social Development the scourge of substance and drug abuse is a challenge not only for South Africa, but globally.

Addressing the portfolio committee on Wednesday, the Deputy Minister highlighted the consequences of drug abuse on South African society.

The Deputy Minister led a team from the Department of Social Development and the Central Drug Authority in tabling the 2023/2024 Central Drug Authority Annual Report before the committee.

Ahead of presenting the report, Deputy Minister Hendricks noted that according to the South African Society of Psychiatrists one out of every five adults abuse mind-altering substances.

South Africans spent R7.7 billion on alcohol between the week of 25 December 2024 to 1 January 2025.

“According to the South African Society of Psychiatrists, almost 20% of South Africans – one out of every five adults – abuse mind-altering substances, with alcohol, painkillers (codeine) and dagga the worst offenders,” the Deputy Minister said.

He added that the rising figures of illicit drug use suggested that the country was losing the war on drugs.

“The annual cost to the country of alcohol abuse alone, in terms of absenteeism, lost productivity, health and welfare costs, and alcohol-related crime is estimated at up to 10% of the gross domestic product, or as much as R37.9 billion annually, according to a 2014 study in the South African Medical Journal.

“You can imagine how much it costs the country, especially its causal relations to gender-based violence and femicide, and all the social ills,” Hendricks said.

Turning to the 2023/2024 annual report from the Central Drug Authority, the Deputy Minister told the committee that the report highlighted some of the continued and sustained milestones during the sixth administration, particularly in terms of the investments made by national departments, public entities, provinces, the provincial substance abuse forums, and local drug action committees in people, through their various interventions to address and counter the drug problem in the country.

The Deputy Minister noted that South Africa, like other countries, was adversely affected by substance use and substance use disorders; alcohol being the most widely used psychoactive substance in the country.

“I am pleased to state that Cabinet has approved the Prevention and Treatment for Substance Use Disorder Policy,” he said.

He explained that the policy sought to introduce gamechangers in curbing the scourge of substance abuse in the country and would enable the sector to review current outdated legislation and address emerging trends.

Another critical milestone was that the department had initiated a process to establish an interministerial committee to address the scourge of substance abuse.

The Central Drug Authority presentation focused primarily on the implementation of the National Drug Master Plan 2019-2024 by key stakeholders, thus reducing the supply, demand and harm caused by substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking which, the Deputy Minister said, “are directly affecting the poor, vulnerable and other key populations in our communities”. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/13/2025 - 13:32

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