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Agriculture is a vital part of our growth story – President

Location: News

Agriculture is a vital part of our growth story – President

President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is in the interest of all South Africans to have a diverse and inclusive agricultural sector that drives economic growth and ensures food security. 

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, he emphasised the need for a farming industry that reflects South Africa’s diversity while sustaining the country's food supply.  

“The farming sector of South Africa is vital to our growth agenda. It has shown resilience in the past and will likely continue along this encouraging and promising path. It will therefore be critical that the sector embraces the onward march of transformation.

“It is in the interests of all South Africans that we have an agricultural sector that is representative and inclusive, that contributes to the growth of our economy and that produces the food our country needs,” the President said. 

The President highlighted that agriculture was one of the most important sectors in the nation’s economy. The goods and services produced across the agricultural value chain underpin the country’s food security and account for a significant portion of South Africa’s exports. 

According to data from the Agbiz, last year South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record $13.7 billion. These agricultural exports are diverse, with 44% of these products exported to other African countries, 21% to Asia and the Middle East, 19% to the European Union and 6% to the Americas. 

The President reflected that the value and volume of South Africa’s farming sector have more than doubled since the country’s transition to democracy in 1994, reflecting the combined efforts of government and industry to ensure that South African products access as many export markets as possible. 

Beyond the role of expanded export markets, agricultural economists have attributed the sector’s growth to government’s embrace of science, allowing the private sector to register better seed cultivars and genetics to boost productivity.

“The agricultural sector remains ripe for investment because of its recognised growth prospects. In addition, the revenue the state collects from agricultural enables government to provide services that improve the lives of our citizens,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa also noted that the sector is a major source of employment. By the end of 2024, approximately 924 000 people worked directly in agriculture and over 200 000 worked elsewhere in the agriculture value chain.

“The health and growth of our farming sector is vital to supporting small towns and keeping rural South Africa vibrant. Given the critical role of agriculture in our national life, government is working with all stakeholders to ensure the survival, sustainability and growth of this sector,” the President said. 

In collaboration with partners in the industry, the President said government was undertaking growth-enhancing measures such as the sectoral master plans. The Poultry and Sugar Master Plans were the first steps, culminating in the Agriculture and Agro-processing Masterplan that was signed by organised agriculture and other partners in 2022.

The Department of Agriculture has launched a blended finance instrument in collaboration with the Land Bank to help farmers who require capital to continue growing the sector.

As this labour-intensive sector expands, the President said that more work opportunities will be created in the most vulnerable areas of the country, particularly rural areas. This in turn will support their economic rejuvenation.

The President further noted that agriculture, like other sectors, is affected by municipal service delivery challenges, and by the poor state of key infrastructure such as roads, rail and ports. He said this constrains the delivery of agricultural goods to markets.

However, the structural reforms that started during the sixth administration are making progress towards addressing the port and rail challenges. Several road transport and bulk water infrastructure projects are underway that will boost the growth of agriculture.

President Ramaphosa added that achieving sustainable agriculture in South Africa requires addressing challenges related to equity, inclusion, and land ownership in the farming sector.

“We cannot talk about sustainable agriculture in South Africa without addressing issues of equity and inclusion in farming and land ownership. Transformation remains a challenge in agriculture,” he said. 

The President highlighted that in his book, A Country of Two Agricultures, economist Wandile Sihlobo notes that black farmers currently only account for around 10% of the commercial output in South Africa's agriculture.  

“Our growth agenda must therefore have a bias towards the empowerment of black farmers. The inclusion of black farmers in commercial agriculture necessitates that land is made available to them. 

“The ongoing land reform process and release of government land will continue to benefit emerging farmers and ensure that they too add to the growth of South Africa's farming economy.

“This is an effort that requires multi-sectoral collaboration. The Land Bank and other commercial financiers will need to collaborate by providing capital. Organised agriculture can come on board to deploy the necessary training,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:27
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Minister Ramokgopa to engage North West on electricity challenges

Location: News

Minister Ramokgopa to engage North West on electricity challenges

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, will lead an intergovernmental engagement with all municipalities in the North West province do discuss electricity challenges and introduce effective interventions.

He will be joined by Premier of the North West, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, during Monday’s meeting.

This initiative follows the Minister’s recent engagements with municipalities in Limpopo and the Free State, where similar discussions were held to address municipal electricity issues. 

“This effort is in line with the seventh administration’s commitment to fostering a functional local government capable of fulfilling its obligations through a coordinated effort involving all three spheres of government.

“Several municipalities are currently under Section 139 intervention, necessitating oversight from the Provincial Executive. This situation stems from longstanding municipal debts, including both arrears and current accounts owed to Eskom for electricity distribution.

“An integrated approach is essential for developing a sustainable intervention plan that focuses on medium to long-term solutions. Some strategies may require financial reconfiguration, particularly in light of the country’s ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts,” a joint statement by the Ministry of Electricity and Energy and the North West provincial government said.

The outcomes of the meeting aim to formulate collaboration, which will ensure that municipalities can meet their financial obligations to Eskom and ensure reliable electricity access to all. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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Sun, 03/09/2025 - 15:10
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Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

Location: News

Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to assure residents of the City of Johannesburg that government is determined to move with urgency to resolve the service delivery challenges facing the city.

The President was addressing residents during a stakeholder engagement at the Johannesburg City Council Chamber on Friday afternoon.

Earlier in the day and on Thursday, the President together with the National Executive conducted an oversight visit to Gauteng.

“As a resident of Johannesburg, I share the concerns that have been expressed here about the deterioration of services and infrastructure. 

“Over the last two days, members of the National Executive have engaged the leadership of Gauteng and the City of Johannesburg on the challenges they face and the work that is being done to address them. 

“We are committed to ensuring cooperation among the three spheres of government to urgently attend to these challenges. We may well have said so in the past, but the enormity of the challenges and the problems compels us to now say we are going to redouble our efforts,” he said.

The President highlighted some of the challenges facing the city, including deteriorating road infrastructure, the closure of public facilities like the Johannesburg Library and delayed or unfinished infrastructure.

“Through the Department of Cooperative Governance, National Treasury and the Provincial Government, we are supporting the City of Johannesburg to stabilise its governance and financial affairs. 

“We need to ensure that we unlock service delivery backlogs and begin to address the backlog in infrastructure provision,” President Ramaphosa said.

Rejuvenating the city

Turning to the establishment of the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group announced earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa explained that the group will be made up of not only government bit also stakeholders.

A similar approach has been applied in KwaZulu-Natal with the establishment in 2024 of the eThekwini Presidential Working Group to turnaround the fortunes of Durban and position it as an investment and tourism hub.

“Our learnings in eThekwini make us confident that this is the correct model to address Johannesburg’s many challenges. 

“Over the last month, the Presidency has engaged the City of Johannesburg, the province of Gauteng and some social partners on establishing a Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

“There has been broad support from everyone engaged for an intergovernmental mechanism that will strengthen cooperation and leverage the expertise and resources of all stakeholders in the City of Johannesburg,” he said.

The working group’s first focus will be on governance and financial sustainability.

“We will work to strengthen the internal governance and financial management of the city by restoring institutional capacity. The second focus will be on water and sanitation and the third focus will be on electricity. 

“We will work to stabilise critical infrastructure by improving maintenance, increasing funding and focusing on the whole value chain. 

“The fourth focus will be on public spaces and beautifying the city. Specific interventions will include fixing road infrastructure, restoring street lighting and traffic lights, and enhancing waste collection throughout the city,” President Ramaphosa said.

Focus will also be placed on improving law enforcement and urban security, accelerating housing delivery, launching an inner-city rejuvenation project.

“We have set out a timeframe to achieve all this. It should not be an elongated timeframe. This Working Group will report on a regular basis to the Ministers and myself. 

“We cannot act as if it is business as usual. We must recognise the crisis before us and meet it with the resources, timeframes and accountability measures required,” he said.

The President called on stakeholders to join hands with government to turn the city back to its former glory.

“Government cannot do it alone. The involvement of broader stakeholders in the Working Group will not only hold us collectively accountable to the targets set, but accelerate our efforts. 

“In the coming weeks, my team will be engaging business, labour, civil society and academia regarding their respective roles in the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

“Johannesburg is a city of resilience. It is also a place of innovation and…a place of great hope. Let us move forward with determination, unity and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Sat, 03/08/2025 - 11:38
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Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Location: News

Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has assured social grant beneficiaries that her department, in collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is working tirelessly to resolve any challenges they may encounter while swapping their SASSA Gold Cards for the new Postbank Black Cards.

In a video posted by SASSA on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, Tolashe reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring an efficient and secure social security system for all beneficiaries.

“As a department of Social Development and SASSA, we want to assure you that our commitment to provide efficient social security system is still our top priority. We are doing everything in our power to resolve all the concerns and difficulties that you have,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that efforts are being made to assist all beneficiaries using the SASSA Gold Card before its expiry on 20 March 2025. She urged recipients to replace their cards with the Postbank Black Card, or switch to a bank of their choice to avoid any disruptions in receiving their grants. 

“We are working tirelessly to ensure that all our beneficiaries currently using the SASSA Gold Card are assisted speedily, efficiently and with dignity,” Tolashe stated.

She also reassured beneficiaries that the department is strengthening and monitoring its systems to prevent cyberattacks and safeguard personal information.

“Despite the challenges that we face today, we care about your wellbeing, and it is our responsibility to serve you with dignity and respect, as we continue to pay the right social grant to the right person at the right time and place, always,” she said. 

To ensure that no one is left behind and all beneficiaries that need to replace their cards are reached, Postbank announced in a statement on 27 February 2025 that it has increased the number of tellers servicing all the existing sites across the country. 

Postbank has also added more places to replace cards. Postbank black cards can be obtained from select outlets of major retailers that include Pick n Pay, Boxer, Usave, Shoprite and Checkers.

In addition, Postbank has started rolling out Spar stores nationwide to replace cards, providing an additional 234 places for beneficiaries to get cards.

A shortened USSD number which beneficiaries can use to look up sites has been introduced to improve their customer experience. To look up sites, beneficiaries can follow this process:

  • Dial *120*355#
  • Reply with (1) to continue
  • Reply with the province number (numbers 1 to 9 representing all provinces)
  • Reply with the number of the municipality. Then all the card replacement sites under that municipality will appear. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:35
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SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

Location: News

SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

As South Africa continues to make significant strides in women’s representation in government, greater efforts are urgently needed to ensure women’s leadership extends to corporate and economic sectors.

The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities made the remarks ahead of the global commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on Saturday, 8 March 2025.

International Women’s Day is a worldwide celebration of women’s achievements, as well as a powerful call to action for gender equality.

The day serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make to society, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges they continue to face in various spheres of life.

This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action” encourages the global community to intensify efforts to implement strategies, allocate resources, and initiate activities that will positively impact the advancement of women everywhere.

The WID 2025 coincides with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) (“Beijing +30”).

The year also marks the final five years of the 2030 United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the urgency of advancing gender equality globally.

The department emphasised that with the right action and support, positive progress can be made for women across the globe.

“South Africa continues to make strides in women’s representation in government, with women making up 46% of Parliament and 43% of the Cabinet. However, greater efforts are needed to ensure women’s leadership in corporate and economic sectors.

“More work should be done to accelerate equal representation, as women remain underrepresented in high-income sectors and continue to face significant wage gaps. To bridge the gap, there is a need to demonstrate actions to stronger policies on financial inclusion, access to credit, and workplace protections for women,” the department said on Friday.

The department highlighted the importance of equipping women with the necessary tools and resources to start and grow businesses, manage household finances, and invest in their futures.

These efforts will strengthen their voices in decisions affecting them, and also help narrow gender gaps in financial access, while endorsing broader social and economic equality.

In alignment with the Government of National Unity's (GNU) priorities for the 7th administration, which has identified rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth for all South Africans, the department emphasised that these priorities align closely with the World Economic Forum's (WEF) agenda for women’s rights.

The WEF focuses on closing gender gaps in economic participation, pay, and leadership.

“The South African Constitution champions the achievement of equality, including gender equality, throughout its provisions, particularly section 9 of the Constitution, which creates a basis for the obligation of the public sector, the private sector and civil society to eliminate and remedy gender, race and social inequalities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:57
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No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

Location: News

No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

The Department of Social Development has refuted claims made in recent media reports alleging that 50 South African NGOs are being investigated for terror funding and money laundering. 

In a statement on Friday, the department clarified that there were no such non-profit organisations under investigation.

“The Department of Social Development has noted attributed statements in recent media reports that 50 South African NGOs are being probed for terror funding and money laundering. The department would like to put it on record that there are no such NPOs,” the statement read. 

The department said that it convened a symposium with NPOs and other stakeholders to make the NPO community aware of South Africa’s obligations with regard to the implementation of anti-money laundering and the counter terror financing measures. 

The aim of the symposium was to strengthen consultation mechanisms between government and NPOs. It focused on deficiencies in SA’s measures to protect NPOs from exploitation to fund terrorist organisations as identified in the 2021 FATF Mutual Evaluation. 

The FATF reiterated its findings relating to these deficiencies in its 2024 Mutual Evaluation Follow Up Report on South Africa. This is available at file:///content/dam/fatf-gafi/fur/South-Africa-Follow-Up-Report-2024.pdf.coredownload.inline.pdf.

Delegates were informed about the recently launched NPO TF Risk Assessment that was undertaken to assess the nature of potential threats and inherent vulnerabilities that may potentially put NPOs in South Africa at risk of terror financing abuse, which can be found at https://www.dsd.gov.za/index.php/documents?task=download.send&id=565&catid=86&m=0.

“However, at no point during the symposium were any allegations made that NPOs in South Africa are implicated in terrorist financing or money laundering, or that the South African authorities are investigating any NPOs for involvement in these activities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:25
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South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

Location: News

South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka says South Africa’s G20 Presidency is aimed at ensuring resource-rich nations and communities in places like Limpopo can benefit equitably from their mineral wealth.

“In the midst of global geopolitical tensions and rising protectionist, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will champion cooperation, collaboration and partnerships between individuals, groups, peoples and nations,” Moraka said.

Speaking at the G20 Community Outreach event at the University of Venda in Limpopo today, Moraka said strengthening partnerships and expanding dialogue with a wide range of actors is important to collectively shape the G20’s approach to issues requiring international cooperation.

“South Africa will therefore also host a G20 Social Summit, prior to the Leaders’ Summit, by expanding outreach to communities beyond the 13 official G20 Engagement Groups,” Moraka said.

Moraka said during South Africa’s Presidency, there will be more than 85 in-person meetings throughout the country, including five meetings in Limpopo.

“We encourage the people of Limpopo to become more involved in these processes. We have been asked, and rightfully so, what benefits does the G20 Presidency brings to South Africa

“Tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from some of the world’s largest developed and developing economies are expected to arrive in South Africa over the year-long Presidency. 

“In addition to many Ministers, the Heads of State and Government of more than 40 countries will attend the Leaders’ Summit in November 2025,” the Deputy Minister said.

Moraka said the G20 Presidency was without a doubt a mammoth task, requiring considerable personnel and resources, by most accounts, this was the largest national project that South Africa has ever undertaken.

“This project is expected to have significant economic benefits for South Africa, notably for the tourism, transport, restaurant, entertainment and hospitality industries, with global visibility in all nine provinces.

“There is also significant opportunity for South African provinces and cities to promote their cultural, heritage, tourism and innovation, but also an opportunity to demonstrate South Africa’s technological, industrial and commercial advances across various sectors,” Moraka said.

A number of direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created during South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

“It therefore goes without saying that the support of all South Africans in telling a good story and highlighting our successes is critical if we are to leave a permanent G20 legacy for South Africa, and the whole of the African continent.  

“It is important for us all to work in synergy and in cooperation and partnership, more so in a fractured world filled with conflict and destruction. As much as we are excited to host the first G20 Presidency on the African continent, we are also cognisant of the enormous task that is before us,” the Deputy Minister said.

Also speaking at the same event, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said she was delighted to welcome esteemed members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders and all distinguished guests to the historic occasion, the first-ever G20 community outreach to be held in the province.

Ramathuba said the engagement was an opportunity to strengthen ties, advance collaboration and ensure that global economic policies translate into meaningful opportunities for local communities.

“It is also a symbolic gesture, a recognition of the role that provinces like Limpopo play in shaping the broader economic landscape of South Africa and the African continent,” the Premier said.

As the only African nation represented in the G20, South Africa carries a profound responsibility in ensuring that the voices of developing economies, particularly those in Africa, are heard on the global stage.

“The G20’s focus on economic growth, trade, investment, climate action and digital transformation resonates deeply with developmental priorities in Limpopo. 

“We understand that global economic policies have real, tangible effects on the lives of ordinary people, and it is our duty to ensure that these policies translate into meaningful opportunities for our communities,” Dr Ramathuba said. 

Lutendo Luvhengo, a third year student at the University of Venda told SAnews that although she had little knowledge about G20 and South Africa’s G20 Presidency, she hoped that South Africa’s hosting of the G20 meetings would benefit ordinary people.

“I believe that our country’s economy is going to improve. The guests coming to South Africa some of them are going to invest in our country and that will create more jobs,” she said.

Luvhengo was confident that the G20 meetings were going to be successful.

Echoing same sentiments was Israel Marema, first year Bcom student who said the G20 meetings were “investments in the country”.

“This is going to reduce the level of poverty by creating more job opportunities,” he said. 

Today’s launch of the G20 Outreach Programme forms part of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering wider public dialogue and participation in South Africa's G20 Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:53
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Investors urged to join Global Investor Call

Location: News

Investors urged to join Global Investor Call

National Treasury has encouraged investors, who are interested in participating in the upcoming Global Investor Call (GIC) after the tabling of the Budget, to submit questions through the respective Goldman Sachs or Investec representatives.

The Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, will table the 2025 Budget to Parliament on Wednesday, 12 March 2025.

“The Republic of South Africa, rated Ba2 (stable) by Moody’s Investors Service Incorporated, BB- (positive) by S&P Global Ratings and BB- (stable) by Fitch Ratings (Hong Kong) Limited, has mandated Goldman Sachs International and Investec Bank Limited, alongside their empowerment partners, Vunani Capital Partners and Cinga Capital, to arrange a non-deal Global Investor Call (“GIC”) scheduled for Wednesday, 12 March 2025 at 16:00 SAST / 14:00 GMT / 09:00 EST,” National Treasury said on Friday.

The GIC will be led by National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, and will be supported by senior National Treasury officials. 

It said the GIC will be followed by a series of in-person fixed income investor update meetings in Cape Town on Thursday, 13 March 2025, and Friday, 14 March 2025, and in Johannesburg on Friday, 28 March 2025. 

“Investec will be arranging logistics. Details of in-person fixed income investor update meetings internationally will be communicated to the market in due course. 

“There will be an open Q&A session during the GIC, and the Republic of South Africa also welcomes the pre-submission of questions through the respective Goldman Sachs or Investec representatives,” National Treasury said.

Representatives can be contacted as follows:

Goldman Sachs International:

Investec Bank Limited:

  • Name: Leanne Large
  • Email address: Leanne.Large@investec.com
  • Contact details: +27 82 494 8804

Link to pre-register (Recommended):

https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=367d0b60&confId=78851

Link for the audio replay (only available following the GIC): https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=367d0b60&confId=78851

Following the tabling of the 2025 Budget, a presentation will be available on National Treasury's website:

https://shorturl.at/1VyCh

During the Budget the Finance Minister will to outline the financial, economic and social commitments that government would prioritise in its planned expenditure as part of the 2025 Budget Speech.

He will indicate the allocation of financial resources to the national government’s priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:28
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Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

Location: News

Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

After thorough deliberations, a multi-stakeholder symposium -- hosted by the Department of Social Development -- has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving outstanding action items on Recommendation 8 and ensuring South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. 

The three-day symposium was convened by the Department of Social Development under the theme: "Together Countering the Financing of Terrorism in the NPO Sector-Promoting Cooperation and Compliance with the Global Standards”. 

In a statement on Friday, the department said the symposium was convened to focus specifically on FATF Recommendation 8 and was attended by representatives of government, civil society, Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), financial and non-financial regulators, and NPO funding lobby groups.

“Since its grey listing by FATF in February 2023, South Africa has already made notable progress in complying with the global standards on the prevention of money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing,” the department said. 

According to National Treasury, which is the lead department in addressing the overall FATF recommendations, South Africa is now left with one reporting cycle to address the remaining six action items.

Three of the outstanding action items relate to demonstrating a sustained increase in the investigation and prosecution of complex money laundering, terror financing and unlicensed cross-border money or value transfer services.

FATF Recommendation 8 focuses on NPOs and the potential use of the sector as a vehicle for money laundering and terror financing. FATF has rated most of the action items under Recommendation 8 as partly addressed. 

“Although FATF has made it clear that not all NPOs are at risk of being used for money laundering and terror financing, the department convened the multi-stakeholder engagement to inform the NPO sector of progress, create broader awareness, share best practice and promote better understanding of FATF global standards for NPOs,” the department said. 

The symposium underscored the critical importance of civil society and NPOs in South Africa, as they complement government and the private sectors in providing essential services to the most vulnerable groups and communities in society. 

Some of the key highlights from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium are as follows:

· No one size fits all approach. Not all NPOs are vulnerable to money laundering and terror financing, as some only operate within the borders of South Africa. FATF’s risk-based approach should be applied to high-risk NPOs.

· Data sharing across government and with the private sector/funders. The multi-stakeholder engagement symposium highlighted the need for data sharing agreements among government departments, law enforcement agencies and the private sector to assist in early warning and detection of suspicious activities by high- risk NPOs.

· Overregulation of the NPO sector. While the NPO sector welcomed government’s proposed initiative and measures to comply with FATF’s global standards as part of implementing Recommendation 8, they cautioned against overregulating the sector, which has the potential to stifle community activism and active citizenry envisaged in the National Development Plan.

· Expansion of outreach and educational programmes. One of the key issues emerging from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium is the need for the Department of Social Development to conduct more outreach in collaboration with other regulators such as the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).

· Establishment of an independent NPO regulator. It was recommended that the Department of Social Development should consider setting up the NPO Directorate in its current form as an independent NPO regulator. There was general consensus that the department cannot play a dual role of being NPO funder and regulator at the same time.

· Continued commitment beyond FATF’s grey listing. All participants agreed to continue collaborating and improving coordination, including harmonisation of funding requirements.

The symposium closed with a declaration signed and adopted by all participants to combat all forms of money laundering and terror financing in South Africa.

Delivering closing remarks, the Acting Deputy Director-General: Community Development, Mpho Mngxitama, expressed gratitude to all participants and commended them for their unwavering commitment to exit South Africa from the grey list, as well as improve transparency and accountability in the NPO sector.

“As FATF’s onsite visit approaches, it is now all hands-on deck to expedite action on all
outstanding items to exit South Africa from the grey list on record time,” the department said.

NPO Online Solution

The department seized the opportunity to demonstrate the NPO Online Solution, a self-service portal that will enable members of the public to register new NPOs, check status of their application, submit annual compliance reports and voluntary deregistration, amongst others.

A key feature of the new innovative and streamlined DSD NPO Online Solution is that it will be linked to the portals of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). 

It was agreed that a webinar will be organised to pilot the online solution before national roll out in the new financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:59
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Nelson Mandela Bay unveils backyard dwellers programme

Location: News

Nelson Mandela Bay unveils backyard dwellers programme

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has officially unveiled the much-awaited programme to register backyard dwellers for RDP houses.

Launched in KwaLanga, Kariega, on Wednesday, the Backyard Dweller Registration Programme is an effort by the municipality to give special focus to the plight of backyard dwellers, who have been raising what they called a ‘neglect and prioritisation of illegal land occupiers’.

Lobishe explained that the programme will be rolled out by the offices of ward councillors, where backyard dwellers will be registered on a list that will be audited to check whether requirements are met.

“The qualifying residents will then be included in the housing waiting list. Those who have met the requirements and qualified will be informed,” Lobishe said.

Lobishe said the registration programme responded to the plight of backyard dwellers.

Reflecting on the government’s decision to build RDP houses, the Mayor emphasised the aim to restore dignity to previously disadvantaged individuals.

To ensure accurate data collection, she said 200 field workers have been appointed across the city, with four assigned per ward.

Lobishe also commended backyard dwellers for their patience and discipline in refraining from land invasions, saying “this is the time to reward you”.

“The fact that you have stayed in your backyard rooms or houses for all these years, while some have decided to invade land, is not taken for granted. From now we will be moving with speed to complete the registration process in three months’ time.

“We are also engaging the other spheres of government to consider us in their budgeting so that our housing delivery can include backyard dwellers. We accept that we should have done more for you, and appeal that you work with us, as we start this journey,” Lobishe said.

Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Thembinkosi Mafana, said the commencement of the programme is part of the key deliverables for the directorate.

"We have set ourselves key priorities, taking care of the vulnerable, elderly, women, and child- headed families, and addressing the imbalances of the past like backyard dwelling, asbestos-roofed homes and informal settlements,” Mafana said.

One of the prospective backyard dweller beneficiaries, Nosipho Jicelo, said they are happy that the time has come for backyard dwellers to be taken care of.

"Some of us have been living as backyard dwellers for more than 20 years, patiently waiting for us to be considered. We hope that this programme will yield positive results this time around,” Jicelo said.

The registration process will start on 6 March 2025 until the end of June 2025, with a stringent verification process in place. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:53
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Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Location: News

Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the recovery of over 4 300 illegally harvested abalone valued at approximately R1.3 million and the arrest of 11 people allegedly involved in illegal poaching operations.

From 28 February to 2 March 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, and other enforcement agencies successfully disrupted a large-scale illegal poaching operation involving approximately 50 snorkel divers at Robben Island.

"The scale and brazenness of this illegal activity are deeply concerning, but the professionalism and dedication of our enforcement teams have once again demonstrated our unwavering commitment to protecting South Africa’s marine resources.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to all those involved for their tireless work in preventing the exploitation of our marine biodiversity,” the Minister said on Friday.

This operation follows a series of successful interventions in the last month, where law enforcement officers intercepted four significant abalone-related cases in a single day. 

On 13 February 2025, coordinated operations in Glencairn, Muizenberg, Grabouw, and Botriver led to the seizure of thousands of illegally harvested abalone and the arrest of multiple suspects.

The Minister has reiterated government's firm stance against illegal fishing and called on the public to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

"We will continue strengthening our enforcement capabilities and working closely with our partners to ensure that those who exploit our natural resources face the full consequences of the law. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in these operations. Their hard work and sacrifice are crucial in safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity,” George said. - SAnews.gov.za

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Committee Welcomes Arrest of SASSA Officials Suspected of Fraud

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Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Social Development welcomes the arrest of three South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) officials suspected of fraud at the Idutywa Local Office in the Eastern Cape.

The officials were arrested after SASSA's Eastern Cape Regional Executive Manager, Mr Bandile Maqetuka, visited the Idutywa Local Office on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, unannounced. Several unaccounted-for documents, such as birth certificates, affidavits, bank cards, identity documents, and stamped municipal letters, were found in one of the official's drawers.

The committee commends SASSA for following up with the unannounced visit after receiving a tip-off from beneficiaries. It is important for government departments and entities to take information from whistle-blowers seriously, as this is part of accountability.

Furthermore, the committee is pleased with the swift action from the South African Police Service in arresting the officials and hopes all the law enforcement agencies in the value chain will continue in the same manner.

The committee has consistently lamented the slow pace of investigations in cases related to fraud, corruption and financial misconduct in the Department of Social Development and SASSA. The Auditor-General has flagged the issue of investigations taking place at a snail's pace in the department and at SASSA.

The committee hopes the arrest will help deter fraudulent activities.

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

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President Cyril Ramaphosa Concludes Meeting Between the National Executive and the Gauteng Provincial Executive Council

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The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a meeting between the national executive and the Gauteng provincial executive council. The meeting follows three engagements with the provincial governments of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

President Ramaphosa intends to visit and engage the leadership of all nine provinces. 

The national and provincial executive meetings are aimed at strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation. They are also important for ensuring better alignment of provincial priorities with the priorities of the Government of National Unity.

President Ramaphosa urged the province to accelerate the resolution of recurring problems across Gauteng. Some of these include governance failures, financial mismanagement, crumbling infrastructure, crime and lawlessness and unreliable service delivery. This includes broader national challenges—unemployment and poverty. The provision of water across some areas in the province remains a concern. 

The province tabled several strategic areas that require support from the national government. These include disaster preparedness, response and recovery in areas affected by sinkholes. 

The province also requires more support from law enforcement agencies in responding to threats presented by taxi violence, illegal mining and undocumented foreign nationals.

Other strategic areas of national-provincial cooperation that could stimulate economic development in the province include investment in bulk infrastructure, collaboration in enhancing investment in high-tech manufacturing for the green economy, mining services, biotech and digital sectors and the energy generation and transmission eco-system. 

Premier Panyaza Lesufi welcomed the engagement with the national executive and committed to continue working closely with the national government on the priority areas of governance, social and economic development.

The Premier identified the expansion of special economic zones and critical infrastructure refurbishments as vital elements for stimulating economic growth and sustainable service delivery in the province. 

In closing, President Ramaphosa commended the province's focus on the areas of cooperation between the national and provincial governments that will be a catalyst for social and economic growth. 

The President outlined the importance of balancing development ambitions with budgetary realities.

Furthermore, the President encouraged the province to work closely with the private sector in ensuring innovative ways of funding key infrastructure projects, including working with metros in providing incentives to crowd in private sector participation. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

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G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

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G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

The upcoming Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year is anticipated to significantly enhance the tourism sector’s contribution to economic growth and job creation. 

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, who shared this perspective while responding to a parliamentary question about his department’s strategy to leverage South Africa’s G20 Presidency to create sustainable benefits for the economy, particularly for small businesses in townships and rural areas.

“By hosting G20 meetings across all provinces, South Africa aims to achieve a considerable economic boost, attracting tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from major global economies to provinces throughout its year-long Presidency,” he told Members of Parliament (MPs). 

South Africa assumed the Chair of the G20 on 1 December 2023, taking over from Brazil. 

The G20 consists of 19 countries, along with the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), which joined last year. 

This group brings together the world’s major and systemically important economies.

The Minister believes that this surge in tourism presents significant opportunities for South African provinces and cities to showcase their cultural heritage and tourism potential. 

According to Lamola, South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is anticipated to be one of the largest national projects, requiring whole-of-government and society participation. 

From 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, South Africa will host well over 100 in-person meetings across the country. 

“Firstly, the G20 will boost South Africa’s tourism sector, increasing employment and allowing provinces to showcase their cultural treasures.”

The Minister highlighted that the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that South Africa’s tourism sector employed 1.46 million people in 2023. 

This number is expected to increase to 1.7 million jobs soon, driven by a targeted initiative aimed at significantly boosting employment over the next five years. 

He also mentioned that WTTC statistics showed that tourism’s direct and indirect contribution to South Africa’s GDP was 8.2% in 2023, with expectations to rise to 8.8% in 2024.

In addition, it also allows for a demonstration of the nation’s advancements across multiple sectors.

According to Lamola, the G20 meetings are anticipated to generate considerable economic benefits, creating many direct and indirect jobs during and beyond this period. 

The Minister believes that Africa’s G20 Presidency offers an opportunity to promote inclusive growth, combat poverty, and ensure sustainable development. 

“Ultimately, the high-level deliverables and priorities identified for South Africa’s G20 Presidency will benefit South Africa at the national, continental, and global levels. 

“The G20 serves as a strategic platform for South Africa to lobby for policies aimed at advancing the three strategic priorities of the seventh administration.” 

These include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State.

In addition, South Africa’s second priority under its G20 Presidency is ensuring debt sustainability for developing economies. 

“In pursuing this, South Africa aims to see greater urgency in addressing the debt and solvency challenges many countries face, determining clear solutions to mobilise low-cost financing for development.

This approach will help reduce debt service costs for developing countries, including South Africa, thereby freeing up spending on essential services such as education, healthcare, and the infrastructure needed for economic development,” he told MPs.

Meanwhile, he said the nation seeks to leverage its G20 Presidency by promoting “harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and development.” 

“South Africa calls for a G20 framework on green industrialisation and investments to ensure progress towards a grand bargain that adds value to critical minerals, particularly near the source of extraction.” 

He believes that promoting the beneficiation and local value addition of resources at the source will result in a more additive rather than extractive relationship. 

“As mineral extraction accelerates to meet the energy transition needs, the countries and local communities endowed with these rich resources must be the primary beneficiaries,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

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Rhino poaching continues to decrease

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Rhino poaching continues to decrease

South Africa continues to see a downward trend in rhino poaching, with the 2024 statistics showing that 499 rhinos were poached in 2023, compared to 420 last year -- a decrease of 79.

“As we intensify the fight against wildlife poaching, it is encouraging to see that the work of the rangers, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and other key role players is steadily gaining momentum,” the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said on Thursday.

From January to December 2024, 420 rhinos were poached in South Africa, with 320 being killed on State properties and 100 on privately owned parks, reserves or farms. 

“The hardest hit province continues to be KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which lost 232 rhinos. However, this is a notable decline from the 325 that were lost in 2023. 

“The significant reduction can largely be attributed to the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Dehorning Programme, which was implemented in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park from April to October 2024. 

“The World Wide Fund for Nature-funded programme had an immediate impact, with monthly poaching numbers dropping from 35 in April to fewer than 10 per month between May and September 2024,” the Minister said.

However, from October, the poaching syndicates adapted their tactics and began targeting dehorned rhinos, leading to a sudden spike in poaching incidents in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.

In that month alone, the province lost 27 rhinos. 

“Fortunately, the provincial anti-rhino poaching team responded swiftly, intercepting the new syndicate and preventing further losses. The considerable efforts resulted in the province ultimately achieving a 67% decline in rhino poaching over the eight months. 

“Kruger National Park reported a total of 88 poached rhinos for 2024.  This is 10 animals more than the 78 that were reported for Kruger National Park (KNP) during the same period in 2023. 

“Up until the end of November 2024, rhino losses reported in the Kruger National Park stood at 67, but a significant escalation in rhino poaching activities was experienced during December 2024 and this has continued into January 2025,” George said.

A total of 21 rhinos were reported poached in KNP during December 2024 and a further 17 were reported poached during January 2025. 

The Mister said the escalation in rhino poaching in the Kruger National Park is of great concern.

Both the South African National Parks (SANParks) and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife continue to implement a number of actions and initiatives to counter the threats in the hotspot areas. 

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is focused on implementing their Rhino Guardianship Strategy, which also played a role in reducing poaching in the province. This strategy was initiated in August 2024.

“The Ezemvelo Integrity Implementation Plan was completed and approved for implementation; integrity assessments of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park staff, by an independent service provider, commenced, and a Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park Integrity Management Plan was completed and approved for implementation. Polygraphing of 55 Ezemvelo rhino reserve managers was completed and polygraphing of 58 field staff was completed.

“We continue to see some very good convictions in relation to rhino related cases, with lengthy direct imprisonment terms in respect of cases related to rhino poaching, assisting in the poaching of rhino and trafficking of rhino horns.

“However, the time that it takes to finalise many of these cases does remain a concern and unfortunately where the suspects are released on bail, the data tell us that a large number of them continue to commit crimes (often relating to rhino poaching and / or horn trafficking).

"Accordingly, expediting these cases through courts, as well as vigorously opposing bail will result in safeguarding more rhinos," the Minister explained.

National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking

“The sentencing of Francis Kipampa in January this year (who was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment, eight of which were suspended for five years), as one of the accused investigated in Project Blood Orange, sends out a strong message. Not only are we focusing on arresting those involved in poaching our rhino and trafficking the horn, but we are disrupting the higher up levels in the value chain. 

“This project is an excellent example of the integrated and multi-disciplinary approach to investigating organised crime linked to wildlife and ensuring that we target corruption, money laundering and the financial crimes associated with these activities,” he said.

The Minister said more of these focused investigations are needed, as government continues to implement the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking. 

“As we move into the second year of implementation of this strategy, our partnerships within government, with authorities in transit and destination countries as well as with the private sector and non-governmental organisations remain critical. 

“We need to continue to integrate and focus our effort through our existing programmes and forums, including the Integrated Wildlife Zones Initiative, the work of the South African Anti-Money Laundering Integrated Taskforce Illegal Wildlife Trade Task Force and the various task teams residing under the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure Priority Committee on Wildlife Trafficking. 

“We remain committed to the fight against rhino poaching and I believe that a renewed strengthening of our agreements and operational protocols with key countries should be our focus for 2025,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

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Incidence of occupational lung diseases remains high among SA miners

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Incidence of occupational lung diseases remains high among SA miners

The incidence of active pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and silicosis among gold miners remains high, but recent years have seen a slow decline in the rates of both diseases, according to a recent study. 

The findings from the study titled “Surveillance of Occupational Lung Diseases at Autopsy in South African Miners, 2021” suggest that this drop may be attributed to improved silica dust control measures, better living conditions, and the rollout of antiretroviral therapy (ARTs).

The study is based on the annual Pathology Computerised Pathology Automation System (PATHAUT) surveillance report. 

The Pathology Division of the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), a division of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), examines the cardiorespiratory organs of deceased miners and ex-miners. 

According to the lead author Thembi Mashele the research aimed to assess the prevalence of occupational respiratory diseases in miners at autopsy in 2021 and highlight key trends for South Africa. 

In 2021, 546 cardiorespiratory organs from deceased miners and former miners in South Africa were examined.

The autopsies were conducted on 303 (55.5%) Black miners, 241 (44.1%) White miners, and two (0.4%) mixed-race miners. 

The miners had an average age of 51.6 years, while White miners were slightly older than the Black miners. 

Most of the cases came from Gauteng, followed by the North West province. 

The deceased miners worked in various mining sectors, with the majority having experience in the gold mining industry.

Emphysema, active PTB, and silicosis were the most frequently occurring occupational diseases diagnosed at autopsy. 

The research revealed that the current active PTB rate was 137 cases per 1 000 autopsies, higher than the 1995 rate of 93 per 1 000. 

Rates of silicosis in Black and White miners remained above 200 per 1 000 as compared to 182 per 1 000 in 1995. 

Research revealed that the number of autopsies conducted at the NIOH has declined over the years, peaking in 1995 with 4 003 cases compared to 546 in 2021.

The study also found that there has been a drop in the number of miners coming to autopsy, which may reduce access to compensation for families. 

“This decrease also hinders the documentation of detailed findings for the surveillance and research of respiratory diseases associated with mining and environmental exposures.”

Mashele stated that asbestos mining ended in South Africa in 2002. However, due to the long latency of asbestos-related diseases, we can expect respiratory issues among miners exposed to asbestos for some time to come.

Meanwhile, environmental asbestos exposure-related cases will also be expected as asbestos remains in the environment and buildings.

The lead author stated that the government provides compensation to the families of deceased miners who have been diagnosed with certified compensable diseases. 

These include silicosis, coal worker’s pneumoconiosis, mixed dust fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, PTB, asbestos-related diseases, and progressive systemic sclerosis excluding skin-related conditions.

“Due to a decline in numbers seen over the years, we hope to raise awareness amongst healthcare professionals and the public about the surveillance of occupational respiratory diseases and the key trends observed since 1975.” 

Since 1975, demographic information, clinical causes of death, occupational histories, and pathological findings related to the cardiorespiratory organs of all examined miners and former miners have been documented in a computerised PATHAUT database. 

By the end of 2021, this database contained a total of 115 339 records.

The study has recommended a continued policy implementation to control dust in the mining industry – leading to reductions in the incidence of occupational respiratory diseases. 

Meanwhile, the researchers said the International Labour Organisation and the World Health Organisation’s Global Programme for the Elimination of Silicosis efforts to eradicate silicosis by 2030 should be complied with by the mining sector. 

In addition, to adhere to requirements, they suggest that employers should continuously perform air monitoring and submit regular reports to the Department of Mineral Resources.

“The ongoing systematic monitoring of trends will support the evaluation of interventions and the attribution of research in respiratory diseases confounded by smoking for compensation.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

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President Ramaphosa kicks off Gauteng oversight visit

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President Ramaphosa kicks off Gauteng oversight visit

President Cyril Ramaphosa says the economic success of Gauteng Province is crucial to the overall success of the country.

The President was addressing the Gauteng Provincial Government and the National Executive during an oversight visit to the province, on Thursday.

Gauteng is home to the financial capital of Africa in the form of Johannesburg, while Tshwane is South Africa’s administrative capital, and Ekurhuleni is an industrial and manufacturing hub critical to the country’s supply chains.

“Gauteng’s unique position in the national landscape is both an opportunity and a challenge. While it may be the smallest province in terms of land size, it is a giant in many other respects.

“Gauteng contributes the largest share of any province to the country’s Gross Domestic Product. It is the single most critical economic hub in the country, serving as a powerhouse of finance, governance, industry and innovation.

“The economic success of Gauteng is integral to the economic success of South Africa. It is here in Gauteng where our policies, plans and commitments must translate into action,” President Ramaphosa said.

Resolving challenges

During the State of the Province Address (SOPA) last week, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi pinpointed 13 challenges the provincial government must address. These include:

  • Water
  • Cable theft and vandalism
  • Non-functional traffic lights
  • Potholes
  • Crime and lawlessness
  • Mushrooming of informal settlements
  • Electricity in particular load shedding and load reduction in our communities
  • Increase in Gender Based Violence and Femicide
  • Drug abuse
  • Service at our hospitals and clinics
  • Lack of schools
  • Failing infrastructure and CBDs
  • Unemployment

During his remarks today, the President expressed consensus with the Premier.

“Premier, we also agree with you that if we do not move with speed to address the critical challenges identified in the State of the Province Address, we risk undermining the progress we have made.

“There are recurring problems across Gauteng. Some of these include governance failures, financial mismanagement, crumbling infrastructure, crime and lawlessness, as well as unreliable service delivery. These are the challenges that are also articulated in your G13 list which…if we do not address, we will not have served our people well.

“Our greatest challenges – in Gauteng and across the country – are in the end, unemployment and poverty. These are the challenges we all must face head on,” President Ramaphosa said.

Changing lives

The President also emphasised that the outcomes from the oversight visit must improve the lives of Gauteng citizens.

“What emerges from this meeting must not remain as just plans on paper. The outcomes of this meeting must be transformed into practical, measurable interventions that directly benefit the people of Gauteng.

“Through a collaborative and solutions-oriented approach, we will drive sustainable development, improve service delivery and enhance the quality of life for all who call this province home.

“Let us seize this moment with urgency and determination, ensuring that every commitment made here today is followed by decisive action,” he said.

The engagement with the provincial government is the fourth oversight visit, following engagements with the provincial governments of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.

“These engagements are crucial in strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation. They are important for ensuring better alignment of provincial priorities with the priorities of the Government of National Unity (GNU).

“Cooperative governance is a constitutional principle. It requires that, as different spheres of government, we must cooperate with one another in mutual trust and good faith. We must assist and support each other and coordinate our actions,” he said.

Human Rights Month

President Ramaphosa noted that as the national executive conducts its oversight visit to Gauteng, the country is commemorating Human Rights Month.

He highlighted that Human Rights Month is “particularly relevant in the context of our discussions today”.

“The right to water, sanitation, healthcare, housing and education are fundamental to the well-being of our communities. It is our duty to ensure that these rights are not just enshrined in our Constitution but are actively realised through tangible and impactful service delivery.

“People should not only be aware of their right to these services but should actively experience them in their daily lives. We therefore have to continue to harness the power of collaboration to overcome obstacles and implement sustainable solutions that will uplift our communities.

“Through unity and action, we must create a future where the rights of all South Africans are upheld, and where every citizen can access the quality services they rightfully deserve,” President Ramaphosa said. 

The month of March is a heightened period in South Africa to mark Human Rights Month, commemorated under the 2025 theme, “Deepening a culture of social justice and human rights”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Emergency housing unit deployed to assist KZN flood victims

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Emergency housing unit deployed to assist KZN flood victims

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has deployed a team from the Emergency Housing Unit -- in collaboration with the department's roving team -- to support families impacted by the ongoing floods in KwaZulu-Natal.

During her two-day visit to the province on Tuesday and Wednesday, the Minister held discussions with provincial and local authorities to explore urgent human settlements interventions.

As part of these efforts, she announced several initiatives aimed at alleviating the immediate housing crisis for flood victims.

The interventions announced include the temporary accommodation of 225 residents from Ward 74 in Lamontville, who have been relocated to the Impala Hotel.

Simelane also announced plans to provide permanent housing for 229 families from Lamontville, who will be resettled on land owned by the eThekwini Municipality in Georgedale, near Hammarsdale.

“We will build Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) for these families, while permanent homes are being constructed. Additionally, 93 households will be supplied with building materials to help them begin rebuilding,” Simelane announced on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Simelane, accompanied by KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma, visited the flood-affected Ncube and Nkwanyana families in KwaMakhutha, south of Durban.

The Ncube family, with six members, was forced to flee their home as three of their houses were completely submerged. The family is currently living together in a two-bedroom house.

Duma confirmed that an excavator has been deployed to clear rubble and waste from the area so as to unblock the drainage system. He said after discussions with Inkosi Makhanya, a suitable piece of land has been identified to relocate the Ncube family.

Simelane also visited the Ugu District Municipality to assess the extent of the flood damage in the region, with plans for further intervention in the coming days.

Unlocking emergency housing fund 

The Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements has called on the national Department of Human Settlements, KwaZulu-Natal’s Human Settlements Department, and the eThekwini Municipality to work together to address the devastation caused by the ongoing floods in KwaZulu-Natal.

Committee chairperson Nocks Seabi emphasised the immediate need to unlock the Emergency Housing Response Fund to provide critical support to the affected communities.

Seabi said during its oversight visit in October last year, the committee highlighted various concerns with delays to ensuring access to the fund for victims of floods.

He said it is in this context that impediments must be removed, so the fund can serves its purpose by being timeous and agile in assisting victims.

“In an environment of devastation and distress, government programmes must not be tied up in bureaucracy and territorial disputes that delay interventions. We are hopeful that the concessions made by the national department on the implementation of the fund will come in handy in the response to the current disaster.

“The delays witnessed previously, such as the verification of beneficiaries and assessment of damaged houses, which had taken 10 to 12 months or longer, should be a thing of the past going forward,” Seabi said in a statement this week.

Seabi called for enhanced monitoring of building standards, as regulated by many laws, including the Housing Consumer Protection Act, and the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act to ensure that houses are able to withstand the elements.

“In an environment of increasing environmental disasters, building standards and building materials should be such that they can withstand such disasters. Stronger monitoring and inspections should be the order of the day,” the chairperson said.

Seabi extended his heartfelt condolences to the people that have passed on during the floods, which continue to wreak havoc in the province. – SAnews.gov.za

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NSG, KZN Legislature partner to strengthen governance through training

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NSG, KZN Legislature partner to strengthen governance through training

To enhance governance and service delivery, the National School of Government (NSG) has partnered with the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature to roll out targeted capacity-building training for its members and employees.

This strategic collaboration, formalised on Wednesday at the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, signifies a shared commitment to strengthening governance through education, training, and the development of both elected public representatives and legislative employees.

The NSG will provide targeted training focused on improving ethical leadership and oversight, creating effective policies to enhance service delivery and engaging citizens in decision-making.

Speaker of the KZN Legislature, Nontembeko Boyce, emphasised that this initiative aligns with the Legislature’s ongoing programme of creating platforms to empower its members and employees so that they can serve with greater efficiency and impact.

“We believe that a well-capacitated Provincial Legislature can only be achieved through strong partnerships with institutions of learning, bodies supporting parliamentary democracy, and the broader community of KwaZulu-Natal,” Boyce said.

She said ongoing training would sharpen lawmakers' ability to create impactful legislation, enhance public participation and strengthen oversight mechanisms, which will ultimately drive better service delivery.

A vision for a stronger province

Boyce stressed the importance of continuous professional development, saying that staying ahead in governance requires lifelong learning.

“By investing in continuous learning, we aim to ensure that our members are not just well-informed but fully equipped to address the evolving needs of the people they serve.”

Professor Busani Ngcaweni, Principal of the NSG, echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm about the potential impact of the partnership.

“This collaboration is more than just training -- it’s about shaping a more accountable, efficient, and citizen-focused government. By addressing the unique challenges faced by the Provincial Legislature, we are paving the way for stronger governance, improved service delivery, and policies that truly make a difference,” Ngcaweni said. – SAnews.gov.za

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