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Athlone Stadium in Cape Town will host the opening two rounds of the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025, where the Springbok Women’s Sevens team will start their quest to regain their World Series core team status for next season. World Rugby confirmed that the first two of three Challenger tournaments will be hosted in …
The battle lines will be clearly marked on Saturday when the DHL Stormers host the Vodacom Bulls in their highly anticipated Vodacom United Rugby Championship north-south derby in Cape Town, where the Pretoria outfit will be looking to reduce the gap between themselves and the two top sides on the standings, while the hosts will …
Cape Town, 06 February 2025 – Mining in Africa has long been a cornerstone of economic development on the continent but discussions about the sector often focus on large-scale extraction. However, a shift in perspective is gaining traction, one that highlights the importance of downstream industries in shaping a more sustainable and value-multiplying sector. Beyond …
Government, industry leaders encourages use of AI for greater good
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) has signified a fundamental change in how government interacts with citizens, disseminates information and ensures that the State’s voice reaches every corner of the nation.
This is according to Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, who addressed a Government Communicators Networking Session at Artscape in Cape Town on Wednesday night.
“The question to which we must respond is not whether to embrace AI and the suite of technologies, but how to do so in a way that enhances rather than diminishes our communication objectives.”
Morolong said government and its relevant stakeholders should explore how these technologies can break down language barriers, reach underserved communities, ensure the authenticity and credibility of government communications, preserve and promote indigenous knowledge systems, and enhance the skills of government communicators.
However, he stressed that in the pursuit of technological advancement, the nation must retain the human touch essential for effective public service communication.
“We must do so with a drive to leave no one behind, including our diverse skills and cultures.”
The Deputy Minister said the mission of various media platforms and government communication should be to ensure all citizens have access to empowering information that facilitates their active and productive participation in the nation.
The networking session, held on the eve of the State of the Nation Address, included a panel discussion on AI’s impact on media and government communication.
The former Dean of the Johannesburg Business School (JBS), Professor Randall Carolissen, led an important discussion about the transformative potential of AI.
He highlighted its societal impact and emphasised the need to balance technological advancements with personal privacy and accountability.
He also stressed the importance of enabling AI while protecting privacy and ensuring explainability and fairness.
Carolissen also highlighted the dual nature of AI, noting the negative outcomes like “highly convincing” deepfake images.
The panellist emphasised the transformative potential of AI in media, highlighting its role in revolutionising content creation and distribution.
AI was noted for its ability to enhance data processing, as exemplified by the Pan-Canadian AI strategy.
Canada was the first country globally to create a national strategy for AI.
In 2022, the Government of Canada proposed the AI and Data Act (AIDA) as part of Bill C-27, the Digital Charter and Implementation Act, to promote the responsible use of AI.
Practical applications of AI, such as transcription and multilingual support, were discussed, particularly in the context of South African media.
The panellists also touched on the importance of truth and trust in media, with AI aiding in verification and deeper storytelling.
Supple Chief Operations Officer Lea-Anne Moses underscored the increasing pressure on newsrooms to perform and the declining revenues that are becoming a central issue.
“But I think there’s an opportunity in looking at business models and how we use AI to go deeper in our stories, how we use it to transcribe our notes or conduct research and get the groundwork out of the way. But let’s not outsource our thinking to AI.”
Supple is a technology company based in Britain and South Africa that provides software, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and application programming interfaces (APIs) to governmental bodies.
Associate Professor Sisanda Nkoala, who holds the Media Inclusion and Diversity Chair at the University of the Western Cape and represents the Press Council of South Africa, stressed the significance of ethical journalism and transparency in the use of AI.
She highlighted the necessity of adapting this technology to better serve African contexts, particularly to address language barriers.
Concerns have been raised about AI ownership by large tech companies and its potential to worsen the digital divide.
The discussion also addressed AI’s impact on education, job displacement, and the necessity for regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible use of AI.
Meanwhile, the Chief Financial Officer of Kagiso Tiso Holdings, Tshepo Setshedi, said companies that do not embrace AI will be overtaken by those that do.
“So, we need to start preparing as a country in terms of investing in this space,” he told the attendees.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the State of the Nation Address this evening at 7pm. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/06/2025 - 09:04
CAPE TOWN: Jason Rowles struck a crucial half century but fell from the final delivery of the day to leave England...
All eyes on President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa will tonight outline the roadmap for the country for the year ahead, as he takes to the Parliamentary podium to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The President will deliver the first SONA of the seventh administration at 7pm tonight, under the theme: “A nation that works for all”.
SONA 2025 takes place as South Africa recently took up the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) – a historical moment, as the country became the first African State to do so.
In a media briefing on Wednesday, Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the address is expected to touch on the past, the present and the future of South Africa.
“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy,” he said.
The address is also expected to touch on the Government of National Unity (GNU) and how it is setting about achieving its objectives.
In his Opening of Parliament Address last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa revealed that the GNU will dedicate the next five years to “actions that will advance” inclusive growth and job creation, reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living.
The seventh administration took office last year following the national General Elections in which the South African people did not give a single clear majority to any political party.
“In the address, the President will outline the task of the Government of National Unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” Magwenya said.
Parliamentary process
The SONA represents the official start of Parliament’s programme and is one of the rare occasions when the three arms of the state – the legislature, the judiciary and the executive – gather under one roof.
During a media briefing yesterday, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza described SONA as a “crucial event on our national calendar as this Parliament but also as a nation”.
“This occasion is the result of months of meticulous preparation and coordination, which underscores its significance in shaping the national discourse and setting the tone for the year ahead.
“SONA allows the President as the head of state to speak to the nation and reflect on a wide range of matters of national importance, as well as outline the progress on the commitments made by the state.
“As such, SONA signifies the highest level of the state’s accountability to the citizenry by providing updates on the government programmes, developments in legislation and policies, profiling targets and a programme of action for the new financial year,” she said.
As the moment draws closer, leaders of the three arms of the state will form a procession and will enter the Assembly Chamber through the main entrance of the Cape Town City Hall.
The Speaker explained that SONA 2025 will “retain a full ceremonial format” including that procession.
“[This includes] a 21-gun salute, an aircraft flypast, a ceremonial guard, the singing of the national anthem, a full military band and procession involving provincial speakers and premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President [Paul Mashatile] and the President,” Didiza said.
Youth involvement
Didiza told the media that although dignitaries from across the world will be in attendance, Parliament has also made special way for the youngest of South Africans to be involved in the day.
“As part of fostering civic awareness and public engagement, SONA… will feature the Junior Guard of Honour, comprising a hundred learners from four Western Cape schools selected in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Education.
“The involvement of these young learners is crucial in educating and exposing them to the workings, roles and functions of State institutions, helping to shape them as the leaders of tomorrow,” Didiza said.
During the media briefing, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, announced that this year’s praise singer, who will usher the President in – a staple of the SONA – will be 19-year-old Inako Mateza, who hails from the Eastern Cape.
“The proceedings of this SONA will once again include praise singing by Imbongi. This practice is managed through rotational language and provincial selection processes, which ensures inclusivity and the promotion of all our official languages.
“This custom not only adds cultural significance to the event but also provides a platform to showcase grassroots talent on the prominent national stage,” Mtsweni-Tsipane said.
Speaking to SAnews, the award winning Mateza described her selection as an honour.
“Being chosen as an Imbongi to welcome the President in Parliament tomorrow means a lot to me because firstly, I'm a young person who embraces culture and tradition at a time where young people are focused and celebrated for amapiano music. So, for me being the Imbongi that will be welcoming President Cyril Ramaphosa makes me feel ecstatic.
“This opportunity will encourage me to continue the work I am doing. I've noticed that even people on social media enjoy the imbongi part of SONA. I thought I was doing this for my own enjoyment, but I see now that I have inspired others to walk this path too,” Mateza said.
The SONA will be broadcast live on television, on radio and will also be streamed live on the Presidency and Parliament YouTube channels. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:18
The residents do not know where or when they will be relocated
The address below was delivered by the DA Leader, John Steenhuisen, during a media briefing in Cape Town this morning. Good morning The DA is Delivering I want to use this opportunity, before the President makes his State of the Nation address tomorrow, to set out what the DA is doing to turn South Africa …
Premier Alan Winde calls on President Cyril Ramaphosa to put driving a thriving economy and enabling more jobs first when he delivers his State of the Nation Address this Thursday, 7 February 2025. “Faced with lingering stagnant economic growth, President Ramaphosa must be bold and unambiguous about putting our economy and job creation on an …
President Ramaphosa ready and focused for SONA
President Cyril Ramaphosa is fully prepared and focused ahead of his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, says Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
Addressing a media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday, Magwenya emphasised that despite various pressing national matters, the President remains undistracted and committed to delivering his address.
“He's very ready for tomorrow. Typically, in our office, there's never a time when we are dealing with one issue. The sort of typical day, week or month in our office involves dealing with multiple issues at the same time.
“So, we are excited. We are not in any way distracted by all these other issues. We accept these issues to be par for the course, in the nature of the President's work, and like the issues that we have to deal with and resolve, we are not in crisis mode,” Magwenya said.
He said the President’s office was addressing issues as required and remained focused on preparations for tomorrow’s SONA.
He noted a great deal of excitement surrounding the event, as it will be the first SONA under the seventh administration and the Government of National Unity (GNU).
“Tomorrow's address will have received inputs from Ministers that come from other parties who are responsible for their respective portfolios, and so tomorrow's address will be very much reflective of the Government of National Unity, and we are finding a great deal of excitement,” he said.
President Ramaphosa will deliver the 2025 SONA on Thursday at 7 pm at Cape Town City Hall, before a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament.
The first SONA of the seventh administration will be held under the theme “A nation that works, for all” and holds added significance as it coincides with South Africa’s 30 years of freedom and democracy as well as its Presidency of the G20.
“The annual address gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation and recommits us to working together to build the country we envisioned at the start of our democracy.
“In the address, the President will outline the task of the government of national unity in implementing the three strategic priorities of the Medium-Term Development Plan, namely, driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state,” he said.
Presidential Gold Challenge
Following the SONA, President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday tee off alongside a diverse stakeholder grouping to raise funds for charities during the annual Presidential Golf Challenge (PGC) which will be held at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand.
The PGC is held every year following the SONA and is hosted by the Ministry of Public Service and Administration in partnership with the private sector as part of the activities around SONA.
Magwenya explained that the challenge raises funds for charities designated by the sitting President and provides an opportunity for networking between government and the private sector.
“The proceeds will be donated to the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, which will in turn distribute funds to deserving charities to improve education and promote skills development in the communities across the country.
“The President is honoured to partner with an 11-year-old golfer Shalom Madlala from Malelane in the Mpumalanga province. Shalom is a provincial player in the South African Golf Development Board’s (SAGDB) program,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 12:42
President Ramaphosa to participate in joint SADC – EAC summit on the DRC
President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to embark on a working visit to Dar Es Salaam in the United Republic of Tanzania on Saturday, to participate in the joint Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) – East Africa Community (EAC) Heads of State and Government Summit on the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This was announced on Wednesday by Presidential spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, during a media briefing at the Imbizo Media Centre in Cape Town to update on the President’s programme and address recent developments of interest.
“The Heads of State and Government of SADC and the EAC agreed to meet urgently following their respective extraordinary summits held last month to deliberate on the way forward regarding the security situation in the DRC,” Magwenya said.
The joint SADC – EAC Summit will be preceded by Senior Officials and Foreign Ministers Meetings taking place on 6 and 7 February 2025.
The Extraordinary SADC Summit held last month mandated the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation to engage all State and non-State parties to the conflict on a ceasefire process to protect lives and facilitate a smooth flow of humanitarian support to people and communities affected by the armed conflict.
It also urged Political and Diplomatic leaders who are parties to the conflict to engage in a coordinated effort of dialogue, including supporting the Luanda Process, United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and others, to restore peace and security in Eastern DRC.
READ | SADC Extraordinary Summit condemns escalating violence in DRC, calls for urgent action
SONA Debate Reply
President Ramaphosa will deliver his reply to the State of the Nation debate on 13 February 2025.
Magwenya said the President looks forward to a constructive and substantively enriching debate that will follow his SONA address.
38th AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government
President Ramaphosa is also expected to lead the South African delegation to the 38th African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
“President Ramaphosa will lead the South African Delegation to the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government of the AU, which is taking place on 15 and 16 February 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He will be accompanied by several Ministers and senior officials,” Magwenya said.
The Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU will be held under the theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”.
It will review and assess what has been achieved in Africa’s efforts towards the attainment of long overdue justice and reparations after decades of colonialism and apartheid.
“The assembly is taking place two months after South Africa assumed its Presidency of the G20 in 2025. The Summit will be a unique opportunity for President Ramaphosa to brief his counterparts on the key priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and their alignment to Agenda 2063. The high-level meeting on the G20 will take place on 15 February 2025, on the margins of the summit,” he said.
One of the main objectives of the forthcoming assembly is to elect the new senior leadership of the AU Commission, Chairperson and a Deputy Chairperson of the Commission. There are three candidates vying for the Chairperson position, while four candidates are contesting the Deputy Chairperson position. It will also appoint the six Commissioners following the endorsement by the Executive Council.
“The summit is expected to discuss the status of Peace and Security on the continent. The discussion on peace and security on the continent will take place against the backdrop of great concerns regarding the state of peace and security on the continent, including the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The discussions on the peace and security situation in Sudan and South Sudan will also feature prominently during the summit,” Magwenya said.
The President, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, also known as the C-5, will convene an extended meeting on South Sudan to include key countries in the Eastern Region such as Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda. The current President of South Sudan, President Silva Kiir will also be in attendance.
South Africa will participate in the exchange of views on issues such as AUDA-NEPAD, APRM and Climate Change on the margins of the AU Summit. There will also be a review and assessment of the implementation of the Agreement Establishing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical flagship project of Agenda 2063.
G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting
President Ramaphosa will, on 20 February 2025, host the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting at the NASREC EXPO Centre, in Gauteng.
Issues for discussion include the current geopolitical dynamics, as well as the President's reflection on South Africa’s G20 Presidency High–Level Deliverables and the Review of the G20 @20.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced on 1 December 2024 under the theme, “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.
Basic Education Sector Lekgotla
President Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address on 27 February 2025 at the Basic Education Lekgotla.
The Department of Basic Education will host the Basic Education Sector Lekgotla at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre, Johannesburg.
The theme of the 2025 Lekgotla is “Strengthening foundations for Learning for a resilient future-fit education system”. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:07
Fine weather conditions ahead for SONA
With less than a day until President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Cape Town, attendees of the joint sitting of Parliament can expect fine weather conditions.
“We are expecting fine weather conditions with a minimum of 17°C and a maximum of 24°C. For the Western Cape, there will be a 30% chance of showers and rain along the south coast but it will be a fine day with no precipitation in Cape Town,” South African Weather Service (SAWS) Meteorologist and Forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela told SAnews on Wednesday.
The joint sitting will see attendees, including Members of Parliament (MPs) and invited guests, walking the red carpet ahead of the President’s speech.
Winds can be expected on the southerly to south easterly direction at between 10 and 20 kilometres per hour (km/h). If there are any gusts, this will be at about 60 km/h.
Around the coastal areas between Cape Agulhas and Cape Columbine, there could be damaging winds and waves. These conditions could result in difficulty in navigation at sea.
The President will address the nation on Thursday, 6 February, at 7 pm, at the Cape Town City Hall.
SONA is convened by the President in terms of the Constitution to provide the nation with an update on government's commitments and programme of action for the new financial year.
It is a joint sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), presided over by the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Chairperson of the NCOP. The President's address is the sole item on the agenda.
This will be the first SONA of the seventh administration. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:36
Africa must take bold steps to own its resources, create jobs and build industries that sustain prosperity for generations, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has told African leaders, policymakers, mining industry leaders and global partners at the African Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, on Sunday.
In a keynote address at the ministerial symposium of the Indaba, Mr. Denys Denya, Senior Executive Vice President of the Afreximbank Group, argued that the continent was standing at a crossroads and could either continue exporting its wealth and remain a marginal player in the global economy or take the bold steps to own its resources.
He noted that “While the global mining industry generated approximately US$1.7 trillion in revenue in 2023, Africa's share of this wealth remains disproportionately low. Our continent extracts the raw materials that power the world's industries, yet it is estimated that we retain as little as between four per cent and 20 per cent of the total value of our minerals due to minimal local processing and limited downstream development. The result? Lost economic opportunities, exposure to volatile commodity cycles and a persistent reliance on external markets for refined products derived from our own resources.” “The choice is ours. The time to act is now. Let us work together: governments, financial institutions, investors, and industry players to build an Africa where mining is not just about extraction but about transformation, innovation and wealth creation,” said Mr. Denya. “Africa has the resources, the market potential, and the policy frameworks to transition from a resource-dependent continent to an industrial powerhouse. However, success will depend on bold, decisive action from all stakeholders. Policymakers must implement clear, enforceable regulations that mandate local value addition and create investment-friendly environments. Private sector investors must step up with capital and technology to develop processing, refining, and manufacturing facilities.”
Reversing this trend demanded bold, coordinated action, he argued. “We must move beyond extraction and invest in refining, smelting and advanced manufacturing. African nations must increase local processing capacity for minerals such as bauxite, lithium, cobalt and iron ore.”
He added that regional collaboration was essential as no single country could build a mining value chain in isolation.
Mr. Denya highlighted the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in developing intra-African mineral value chains and strengthening cross-border collaboration and said that attracting capital for mining-related infrastructure, technology transfer and skills development were critical.
“Our mining policies must also prioritise environmental, social and governance standards, ensuring that mining benefits communities rather than displacing them,” he said, adding that the approach would create millions of skilled jobs for the youth and reduce reliance on volatile global markets while strengthening intra-African trade.
Reiterating Afreximbank's commitment to supporting Africa's mining sector and ensuring that mineral wealth drove economic growth rather than perpetuate resource dependency, Mr. Denya announced that, over the past three years, the Bank had approved more than US$1 billion in support of mining and mineral sector projects across the continent, including financing the development and construction of a bauxite processing plant in Guinea, supporting the expansion of a manganese processing plant in Gabon and providing working capital financing to a diamond company in Botswana.
Other major projects being supported by the Bank include a petrochemical fertilizer plant in Angola, a titanium dioxide pigment plant in South Africa and the feasibility study for the development of a limestone mine processing plant in Malawi, he added.
Mr. Denya said that the establishment of the US$10-billion AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, managed by FEDA, Afreximbank's impact investment subsidiary, would provide critical financial support to countries and businesses transitioning to the new trade regime, including those in the mining sector, and that the Bank's efforts to harmonise standards and implement the Africa Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme would also facilitate seamless movement of minerals and mining equipment across borders, reducing logistical bottlenecks.
Afreximbank was also leveraging digital platforms, such as the Africa Trade Gateway and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System, to enable efficient transactions and market access, which would ensure that Africa's vast mineral wealth was utilised to drive industrialisation, value addition and economic resilience across the continent, he added.
Mr. Denya also noted that Afreximbank, in collaboration with development partners, was driving the development and expansion of industrial parks and special economic zones (SEZs) to address infrastructure challenges that hinder industrial growth.
One of the most transformative initiatives under that pillar was the DRC/Zambia Electric Vehicle Battery Manufacturing Special Economic Zones - a project that positions Africa at the centre of the global energy transition by the implementation of battery precursor SEZs aimed at making the two countries globally competitive investment destinations for the battery electric vehicle value chain.
The African Mining Indaba 2025, taking place from 3 to 6 February, is the premier gathering where Africa policymakers, industry leaders and global partners work to shape the future of the African mining sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.
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Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com
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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank's total assets and contingencies stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, "the Group"). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.
For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com
Learners encouraged to explore TVET colleges
Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe, has encouraged learners to consider the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges as a valuable and viable alternative for advancing their careers.
The Deputy Minister was speaking during an oversight visit to the post school education and training (PSET) institutions in the Western Cape this week.
Gondwe described the TVET colleges as crucial for job creation and youth skills development in the country.
The Deputy Minister visited the West Coast College Vredenburg Campus, and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Bellville Campus in Cape Town.
Gondwe’s visits aimed at assessing the state of readiness of higher education institutions across the country, ahead of the 2025 academic year.
During the visit at West Coast College, she encouraged learners to take pride in acquiring artisan skills as they offer great entrepreneurship opportunities.
“I am very encouraged by what I’m seeing at TVET colleges, I believe they are the future of this country. TVETs are producing artisans with much needed skills [and] also offer opportunities for learners to acquire future skills, such as robotics, AI [Artificial intelligence], and coding,” Gondwe said.
At the second part of the visit, students at CPUT expressed concerns about student residences and other facilities. The Deputy Minister directed the institution to work with the Student Representative Council (SRC), to speedily resolve the identified issues.
The Deputy Minister’s visit to the Western Cape, follows her recent visit to higher education institutions in the Free State where she visited Goldfields TVET College and the Central University of Technology (CUT), at the Welkom campus.
During the visits, the Deputy Minister has been accompanied by key senior officials from Higher Education and Training, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
The Deputy Minister’s dedicated Help Desk has also formed part of the delegation, assisting with all higher education related queries on each visit.
The issue of funding and administrative challenges faced by the NSFAS was in the spotlight during the Free State leg of the visits.
“NSFAS needs to get its act together, in order to ensure that student allowances are paid on time with no delays. Delays cause serious challenges for learners; learners need allowances to eat and to buy hygiene products. This is important for their sense of wellbeing and dignity,” Gondwe said.
Gondwe embarked on the state of readiness visits following a plan of action, announced by Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane at the special meeting of the Post Education and Training sector held in January 2025, to establish the state of readiness for the 2025 academic year.
The Deputy Minister’s oversight is expected to continue in other provinces, with North West higher education institutions being the next on the list. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 14:56
Nearly 2 000 guests expected to attend this year’s SONA
Nearly 2 000 guests from various sectors are expected to flock to Cape Town to attend tomorrow’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), during which President Cyril Ramaphosa will take the nation into his confidence.
These guests represent civil society, academia, as well as traditional, religious and cultural groups.
“Public participation has always been a cornerstone of SONA, and this tradition will continue,” National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza said on Wednesday.
Didiza and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, were addressing a media briefing on Parliament’s preparations for the 2025 SONA.
The President will deliver the SONA to the nation at 7pm on Thursday night.
Didiza described SONA as a significant event in the country’s national calendar and crucial for shaping national discourse and establishing the tone for the year ahead.
During this event, the Head of State will reflect on various important national issues and outline the progress made on government’s commitments.
“As such, SONA signifies the highest level of the State’s accountability to the citizens by providing updates on government’s programmes, developments in legislation and policies, profiling targets and a programme of action for the new financial year.”
According to Didiza, the R6 million event, set to take place at the Cape Town City Hall, is the result of months of careful preparation and coordination.
Some of the dignitaries expected to attend include former Presidents and Deputy Presidents of the Republic, former Speakers of the National Assembly, former Chairpersons of the National Council of Provinces, former Deputy Speakers of the National Assembly, the Executive Mayor of the City of Cape Town, the Queen of the Bapedi nation, and a member of the European Union who serves as the Chairperson of the delegation for relations with South Africa.
It has been confirmed that former Presidents Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma will also attend.
To promote civic awareness and public engagement, Didiza announced that SONA will include a Junior Guard of Honour.
This group will consist of 100 learners from four schools in the Western Cape, selected in partnership with the Western Cape Department of Education.
“The involvement of young learners is crucial in educating and exposing them to the workings, roles, and functions of state institutions, helping to shape them as the leaders of tomorrow,” Didiza said.
The event will also include a performance by the Wynberg Girls’ High School band alongside the official Parliament Choir.
Tomorrow’s SONA will be followed by a two-day debate, with a reply from the President hosted at the Dome in the Nieuwmeester Parking Site.
The SONA proceedings will follow a full ceremonial format. This will include a 21-gun salute, an aircraft fly-past, a ceremonial guard, the singing of the national anthem, a full military band, and processions featuring provincial Speakers, Premiers, the judiciary, the Deputy President, and the President.
Didiza clarified the difference between the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) that occurred last year, marking the beginning of the seventh administration.
“OPA occurs once every five years, after general elections, to announce medium and long-term plans. SONA is an annual address that specifies short-term priorities and provides insights on the progress of the long-term targets.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 15:07
Activists called for reparations to be paid to the families of the miners who died
MPs, invited guests encouraged to wear local attire for SONA
The Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) and the nearly 2 000 guests attending tomorrow’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) to support local designers.
SONA is an event where President Cyril Ramaphosa provides updates on the government’s programmes and sets the agenda for the new financial year.
But, it is also where some MPs and bigwigs dress to the nines to make a fashion statement.
Parliament has since partnered with Proudly South African to support the local fashion industry under the ’Wear Local at SONA’ initiative, said Mtshweni-Tsipane on Wednesday.
“The campaign aims to elevate the local fashion industry calling on the nation’s leaders to showcase South African designed and manufactured fashion at the SONA,” she said.
In addition, Parliament has partnered with businesses in the agriculture, food, and beverage sectors to support the event.
“Some of these businesses represent the great success of our government in designating South Africa’s products as Geographical Indicators, such as in the case of the Karoo lamb and others.
“We extend our full gratitude and appreciation to all businesses and persons who continue to sponsor this event,” she told the media.
Mtshweni-Tsipane and the National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza were addressing journalists in Cape Town about Parliament’s preparations for the 2025 SONA.
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa will be ushered by Inako Mateza, a 19-year-old Xhosa praise singer from the Eastern Cape, which aligns with long-standing traditions.
She took a moment to express sincere gratitude to the informal traders for their continued cooperation since Cape Town City Hall became the venue for the SONA after the 2022 fire that damaged the parliamentary complex.
“While we acknowledge that events of this magnitude inevitably cause some inconveniences within the Central Business District, we also recognise the broader economic value that SONA brings to the city.”
As a significant national event, the Chairperson said SONA garners both local and international attention, boosting economic activity through increased tourism, hospitality, and business opportunities.
“As with previous SONAs, alternative arrangements have been made, in collaboration with the City of Cape Town and the Informal Traders Association, to ensure that affected traders can continue operating at designated alternative venues.”
Post-SONA sittings
After tomorrow’s all-important SONA, the NA and the NCOP will reconvene for a joint session on 11 and 12 February 2025 to debate the President’s address.
The President will respond to the debate on February 13, while the Minister of Finance is scheduled to deliver the Budget Speech on 19 February.
“We encourage all South Africans to actively engage with SONA by tuning in and sharing their views across the various communication platforms provided by Parliament, the government, and the media.”
The SONA will be broadcast live across Parliament TV, mainstream broadcasters, and streaming services. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 15:52
SONA 2025: Temporary road closures
Parliament has issued a series of temporary road closures and parking restrictions in and around the Cape Town City Hall, ahead of the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday evening.
Parliament announced the temporary road closures and parking restrictions from 1 – 19 February 2025, as preparations for the ceremony, scheduled to start at 7pm, get underway.
The list published on Tuesday also includes the full closure on 6 February 2025.
Road closures are as follows:
Block 1
Closure of Corporation Street: between Darling and Longmarket Streets.
Curb side fencing around the perimeter of the Cape Town City Hall.
Block 2
Road Closures for rehearsals from 06:00 – 23:59 (4 - 5 February 2025)
Curb side fencing around the perimeter of the Cape Town City Hall.
Block 3
Road closures for rehearsals are from 17:00 – 20:00 (4 - 5 February 2025).
Block 4
Parking restriction will be in the following areas from 16:00 on Wednesday, 5 February 2025 to 23:59 on Thursday, 6 February 2025:
Block 5
Road closures on Day 6 (6 February 2025) will be in the following areas from 05:00 to 23:59:
Curb side fencing around the perimeter:
Road closures will be in the following areas from 17:00 to 23:59:
Road closures will be in the following areas from 17:45 to 20:00:
Parliament has apologised for any inconvenience caused. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 13:18
Youth called to seize job opportunities through Presidential initiatives
The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, has urged young people to take advantage of job opportunities available through government initiatives aimed at tackling youth unemployment.
Mhlauli made this call during a site visit to Afrika Tikkun Services in Salt River, Cape Town, on Tuesday.
Afrika Tikkun Services is an organisation that is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI), through the Jobs Boost Programme.
Jobs Boost is a R300 million pay-for-performance model being piloted in South Africa. It is an outcomes fund that works with implementing partners to secure sustainable, quality jobs for unemployed, excluded youth.
The programme is the largest youth employment outcomes fund in the world, and a major innovation in the South African government’s effort to confront the chronic youth unemployment problem. Jobs Boost was initiated by the Presidency, as part of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention.
Mhlauli’s visit at Afrika Tikkun Service, aimed to assess the progress and impact of the initiative on young participants. She expressed satisfaction with the program’s implementation, particularly its focus on ensuring young people's transition into sustainable employment.
“This morning, we are at Afrika Tikkun, which is one of the partners through the Jobs Boost Program, which is part of the Presidential Employment Youth Intervention. We came to assess the progress of this particular program, as well as the impact on young people,” she said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the facility offers a structured approach to preparing young people for the job market, including a recruitment phase, job readiness training, and eventual job placement.
The Deputy Minister was particularly pleased to learn that the first cohort of participants has already been successfully placed in jobs.
“The facility is really, quite inspiring. We interacted with young people who are part of various phases of the program, including from recruitment phase, where they are taken into the program and the various levels, including job readiness programs as well, where you get them ready for job placement. And one of the reports we also received is that the first cohort has already been placed,” Mhlauli said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the young people are not just being trained, they are being placed in sustainable jobs for a period of at least six months.
“When we speak as government about addressing youth unemployment, we are speaking not just about training young people, but also speaking about how we get those young people into sustainable jobs for a period of a minimum of six months.
“So far, we are quite happy with this cohort, and one of the things that we have discussed with the team is that they will come back and discuss with the management of the facility on areas that they believe can be improved, as we go forward and upscale into the next cohort, going forward into 2026,” the Deputy Minister said.
Mhlauli also commended the enthusiasm of the participants and noted the high number of young women benefiting from the program. She added that this is encouraging as it addresses the gender disparities in youth unemployment.
“There's much excitement, much enthusiasm from the young people, and we are very happy to see that most of them actually are young women. In particular, most of the classes are filled with young women, which shows that we are also not just looking at youth unemployment, but particularly the unemployment rate of young women, which are obviously most adversely affected by the crises of unemployment.
“All in all, we are quite happy about the progress we have seen, and obviously the impact that is quite visible in the lives of young people,” she said.
Encouraging broader participation, she urged young people to explore opportunities on the SAYouth.mobi platform, a zero-rated government website that provides information on employment, training, CV writing, and business planning.
“We call on young people to make use of these opportunities, and the quickest way to do that is to go onto the SAYouth.mobi website. It is a zero-rated website where you'll find all of the information about the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative, as well as other initiatives such as the YES Program.
“It is one of the platforms that government has created for young people to be able to access these opportunities. So, we really do encourage young people to go onto that website its zero-rated meaning that you don't need any data to get onto the website,” the Deputy Minister said.
The Chief Operating Officer at Afrika Tikkun, Marian Claite, also reflected on the significance of the visit, emphasising the collaborative efforts between Afrika Tikkun and the Presidency.
“Today we met with the Deputy Minister Mhlauli from the President's office, and it was to discuss one of our projects that we are working on called Job Boost. And it was a very constructive conversation that we had. We discussed from the enrolment of our candidates to the training of our candidates, and where we are because we are now at the placement phase.
“We discussed our challenges and the collaboration of the relationship, how it would look as this was a pilot, how it would look next year, and what complexion we would like it to take,” she said.
Claite added that they have given some suggestions on their side on what they would like to see included in the program, as well as what is working well for them.
“At the end of the day, I think it is our mandate, and it's all of our wish that all 1,375 candidates that Afrika Tikkun Services has been tasked with training will be placed in meaningful employment opportunities,” Claite said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 22:11
Former State Security Minister granted R5 000 bail in corruption case
Former State Security Minister Bongani Bongo has been granted R5 000 bail, following his arrest for alleged corruption.
Bongo (47) made a brief appearance at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, after his arrest in the morning of the same day.
Bongo is accused of offering a bribe to evidence leader in Parliament’s Eskom inquiry, Ntuthuzelo Vanara, in 2017, and also contravening the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 (“PRECCA”).
He is being re-tried after he was acquitted by former Western Cape Judge President, John Hlophe, who dismissed the charges against Bong in 2021.
However, the matter went back to the court after Supreme Court of Appeal Judge John Smith, appealed the decision, and ordered that the matter be heard afresh, granting the retrial.
"It is reported that during September to October 2017, the accused approached a member of the then Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises to allegedly arrange a meeting to prevent the next sitting, where Eskom board was to account.
"Eventually, the suspect secured the meeting wherein he indicated that the Portfolio Committee sitting with the Eskom board cannot proceed as planned and indicated that was possible if the member named his price," National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya said on Tuesday.
Bongo is expected to reappear in court on 4 March 2025.
The accused, a former member of the National Assembly, was sworn in as a Member of the Executive and Cabinet, and the Minister of State Security, a position he occupied until 28 May 2024.
All MP’s are bound by the Code of Ethics, and all other ethical and other obligations and duties arising from the Constitution, the Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act, No. 4 of 2004, and the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 (“PRECCA”).
Lebeya vowed that the Directorate will continue to execute its mandate without fear, favour or prejudice.
He also commended the investigating team and encouraged the prosecution team to ensure the South African citizenry receive the deserved justice due to them. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/05/2025 - 09:41
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