Operation Dudula’s Victims Demand Justice
Litigation against the vigilante group started a year ago
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Ghana’s Mining in Motion Summit Gains Support From Key Leaders
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, King of the Ashanti Kingdom; Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources of Ghana; and Oheneba Kwaku Duah, the son of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Managing Director of the Ashanti Green Initiative recently met to discuss the upcoming Mining in Motion Summit in Ghana.
They explored the summit's potential to improve the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector in Ghana and the role of government, international partners and major mining firms in accelerating the sector's growth. Hon. Kofi Buah endorsed the event, emphasizing its significance in connecting small-scale miners with technology providers, financiers, regulatory bodies and global industry stakeholders to improve their operations and impact.
Organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative along with the World Bank, the World Gold Council and other international partners, Mining in Motion will take place from June 2 - 4 in Accra.
The summit is held under the theme Sustainable Mining & Local Growth – Leveraging Resources for Global Impact, uniting key decision-makers, including H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, as well as representatives from public and private sector mining institutions from South Africa, the Republic of Guinea, the African Union, ECOWAS and the United Nations.
The three-day event will highlight the role of traditional authorities in shaping artisanal and small-scale mining practices, emphasizing the sector's contribution to employment and economic growth. In 2024 alone, Ghana's artisanal miners generated $5 billion in foreign exchange earnings through gold exports. Providing direct employment for over one million Ghanaians and accounting for 35% of domestic gold output, the sector has the potential to significantly shape socioeconomic development in the west African country.
As Ghana's mining sector increasingly supports sustainable development, the Mining in Motion Summit will highlight best practices for integrating ASGM into the global financial system. Representatives from prominent international financing organizations will share their insights.
In a significant move to boost earnings for small-scale miners, Ghana has announced plans to establish a Gold Board. This new entity will simplify the process of purchasing gold from small-scale miners, providing them with easier access to global markets. With Samuel Adu Gyamfi, who was appointed Acting Managing Director of Precious Minerals Marketing Company last month and tasked with setting up the Ghana Gold Board, playing a pivotal role in shaping the summit, Mining in Motion is set to have a sizable impact on the growth of Ghana's gold sector.
Through a series of high-level panel discussions, deal signings, project showcases and exclusive networking, Mining in Motion serves as the ideal platform to connect Ghanaian miners with regional counterparts and global investors for forge industry-changing partnerships.
Stay informed about the latest advancements, network with industry leaders and engage in critical discussions on key issues impacting ASGM and medium- to large-scale mining in Ghana. Secure your spot at the Mining in Motion 2025 Summit by visiting https://MiningInMotionSummit.com. For sponsorship opportunities or delegate participation, contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About Ashanti Green Initiative:
The Ashanti Green Initiative is a foundation dedicated to promoting environmental restoration, advocating for climate-related issues, and fostering community development in Ghana and beyond. Guided by a commitment to sustainability, the foundation undertakes projects aimed at rehabilitating degraded lands, restoring water bodies, and promoting responsible natural resource management. The initiative also champions regenerative practices in mining, agriculture, and energy, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change while uplifting local communities through education, capacity-building, and economic empowerment programs. The Ashanti Green Initiative is led by Nana Kwaku Duah, son of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, King of the Ashanti Kingdom. Under his leadership, the foundation applies forward-thinking approaches and innovative solutions, creating impactful partnerships with local and international stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
About Energy Capital & Power:
Energy Capital & Power is an Africa-focused global leading investment platform for the energy and mining sectors. Through a series of events, online content and investment reports, we unite the entire energy and mining value chains – from oil and gas exploration to renewable power – and facilitate global and intra-African investment and collaboration.
Mashatile to commemorate Harvest Day with Free State apple farmers
Mashatile to commemorate Harvest Day with Free State apple farmers
Strategies for enhancing the agricultural sector, fostering economic growth, and promoting job creation will form part of Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s visit to the Free State.
Mashatile will commemorate Harvest Day at the Remmoho Investment in Agriculture Farm in Bethlehem on Thursday, 27 February.
According to a statement from the Deputy President’s Office, the event will highlight key milestones in agricultural development, underscoring government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive agricultural sector and creating job opportunities within the community.
As chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Agriculture and Land Reform, the Deputy President will meet with approximately 400 local farmers, agricultural stakeholders and commodity organisations.
“During his visit, the Deputy President will witness firsthand the investments in apple export and processing facilities in the province, which showcases the innovative efforts to enhance agricultural production and support local farmers, especially black farmers, in growing production,” the statement read.
The visit will also highlight the role of Remmoho Investment in Agriculture, which contributes to government’s vision of growing an inclusive agricultural sector, as enshrined in the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP).
“The company’s investments in the agricultural space are pivotal in breaking new frontiers to create employment opportunities and achieve food security in South Africa," the statment said.
The Presidency said the event will also be a celebration of agricultural success stories and an opportunity to underscore how such initiatives align with government efforts to foster economic development and food security.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso will accompany the Deputy President on his visit.
Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and the Executive Mayor of Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality, Conny Msibi, will receive the Deputy President. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 02/26/2025 - 08:30
28 views
President Ramaphosa to open G20 finance track meeting
President Ramaphosa to open G20 finance track meeting
President Cyril Ramaphosa will open the first meeting of the Group of 20 (G20) Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ under South Africa’s Presidency.
“The first G20 Finance Meeting and Central Bank Governors Meeting in South Africa will focus on the thematic areas of [the] global economy, debt, infrastructure, joint finance and health task force, international taxation, finance sector issues, and sustainable finance,” the Presidency said on Tuesday.
This engagement will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Wednesday, 26 February 2025.
The G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting is hosted by the Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana and Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, Lesetja Kganyago under South Africa’s G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.”
The Finance Ministers meeting is preceded by the second meeting of the Finance and Central Bank Deputies which took place on 24 and 25 February 2025.
“South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced in December 2024, and the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting is part of a series of 23 ministerial and approximately 130 working groups meetings that will take place during the course of 2025. The year-long deliberations will culminate in a G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025,” the Presidency said.
The G20 was originally established as a meeting of Finance Ministers in response to the Asian financial crisis of 1997-99, with the aim of coordinating policies to promote international financial stability’.
This initiative was elevated to a Heads of State and Government Leaders Meeting in 2008 after the global financial crisis of 2007.
Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 75% of international trade.
It comprises 19 countries including: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.
The grouping therefore plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:00
505 views
Premier to mitigate impact of aid withdrawal on jobs
Premier to mitigate impact of aid withdrawal on jobs
Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae has assured that her government, in collaboration with the national Department of Health, will explore innovative solutions to prevent job losses in the province’s health sector.
This follows the withdrawal of a United States (US) foreign aid grant to South Africa which has supported critical health programs.
Delivering her State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Friday, Letsoha-Mathae emphasised that efforts are underway to mitigate the impact and ensure continued healthcare service delivery despite the funding shortfall.
“Many of our strategic partners have indicated that funding from USAID [United States Agency for International Development] has been stopped. This poses an immediate threat of job losses to about 725 healthcare workers, social workers, data capturers, cleaners and many others.
“We will find innovative ways working with national Department of Health to mitigate the impact of this decision,” she said.
The Premier emphasised that no inclusive growth would be realised without quality healthcare and her administration was doing its best to improve healthcare quality in government facilities.
She added that less professionals mean less provision of services of which the province cannot afford.
“That is the reason why, last year, we employed 1 232 healthcare professionals that include doctors and nurses. More will be employed in the next financial year.
“The 1 112 contract workers employed to ease the COVID-19 health pressures, whose contracts expired in October 2024, were re-employed in January this year. Their return is a crucial step in increasing the provision of health services,” she said.
The Premier highlighted that the province had procured more Renal Dialysis Machines and installed Renal Water Purification Systems in some of its hospitals.
At the Mofumahadi Manapo Mopeli Regional Hospital in Qwaqwa, six dialysis machines were commissioned in this financial year. A Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit was delivered and will be installed and commissioned upon the completion of construction and prefiltration.
“At Boitumelo Regional Hospital, ten dialysis machines, two mobile Reverse Osmosis, and a Reverse Osmosis Plant are in clinical use. Importantly, availability of medicines in our health facilities is above 90%,” she said.
Due to increasing population, urbanisation and changing lifestyles, the Premier noted that the health burden is increasing, putting pressure on the available facilities.
She announced that healthcare facilities that are under construction will be completed in the 2025/26 financial year. These include the Thandanani Clinic in Welkom, Rheederpark Clinic in Welkom, Borwa Clinic in Tweespruit, Clocolan Clinic in Clocolan, Dinaane Clinic in Thaba-Nchu, and Valrok Clinic in Brandfort.
“We are also upgrading hospitals, laboratories, neonatal facilities, renal units, maternity wards, pharmacies, mortuaries, theatres and heli-stops. We have taken note of particular challenges at the Bloemfontein Government Mortuary and plans are afoot to remedy the situation,” she said.
The Premier further announced that the following health facilities now render a 24-hour service: MUCPP in Mangaung (Maternity and Emergency Services); Heidedal Clinic in Mangaung (Emergency Services); PAX Clinic in Viljoenskroon (Emergency Services); Bolata Clinic in Qwaqwa (Maternity Services) and the Lesedi Clinic in Kroonstad will be operational from April 2025 (Maternity and Emergency Services). - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 14:29
250 views
Plans underway to ensure service delivery in the Free State
Plans underway to ensure service delivery in the Free State
Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae says plans are underway to ensure that municipalities in the province can deliver basic services such as water, electricity, and refuse collection to the people.
Delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Friday, Letsoha-Mathae said that work to improve the state of the province’s municipalities is continuing.
“We are deeply concerned about the state of some of our municipalities. Their failure to provide services such as water, electricity and refuse removal is worrying. Water treatment plants are not maintained. Electricity infrastructure is collapsing. Taps are dry. Streets are littered with garbage.
“Work to improve the state of our municipalities is continuing. We want to get the basics right and improve service delivery to our people,” she said.
She added that the professionalisation of local government was ongoing and that the seventh administration continues to assist municipalities with the implementation of the Municipal Staff Regulations meant to create a development-oriented local government.
“We are also supporting municipalities with the development of municipal staff establishments that are fit for purpose, review of competency assessments, and remuneration framework for senior managers.
“Section 56 Managers are now permanently appointed in compliance with the Municipal Systems Amendment Act of 2022. Deployment of competent managers and technical officials to municipalities to enhance service delivery is also continuing.”
Letsoha-Mathae said the provincial authorities and municipal officials met with the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa last week to ensure that all municipalities can meet their financial obligations to Eskom.
“Ten municipalities in our province are participating in the Eskom Debt Relief Programme meant to help them settle their current accounts. We continue to provide support to these municipalities to ensure compliance and financial discipline in their engagements with Eskom.
“We commit to meet our electricity, water, services and property rates obligations to municipalities to lessen their dire financial state. Payment plans will be developed and adhered to. We will lead by example,” she explained.
The province has also been battling water challenges, however, the Premier announced that the Department of Water and Sanitation has committed to giving the provincial government R1.4 billion to deal with water and sanitation issues.
This amount is meant to improve water supply and quality and upgrade water and wastewater treatment works throughout the province.
Housing
Meanwhile, the Premier committed that there shall be housing, security and comfort for all as the provincial government drives integration to bring people closer to areas of opportunities.
“We will complete the upgrade of G-Hostel in Welkom, and Dark and Silver City Development in Bloemfontein in the third quarter of the 2025/26 financial year. Conversion and development of hostels into family units is our way of saying our people deserve better.
“We will also upgrade 34 informal settlements by the end of cycle to ensure access to basic services and security for thousands of residents,” she said.
This financial year, the province had planned to service 3 652 sites in informal settlements and greenfields. She announced that this target has been surpassed with 6 878 sites having been serviced.
She added that this year, contractors will be invited through a competitive bidding process to complete historically incomplete houses throughout the province.
“In improving the living conditions of our people in rural areas, we will eradicate mud houses and replace them with proper housing structures in [the]Thabo Mofutsanyana District and Mangaung Metro. We also commit to delivering government-subsidised housing across various types to meet the diverse needs of our communities,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 14:31
305 views
Traditional leaders urged to help build a better SA
Traditional leaders urged to help build a better SA
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on traditional leaders to work alongside the Government of National Unity (GNU) in shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for South Africa.
Addressing the annual opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) at the Good Hope Centre in Cape Town, the President reaffirmed the vital role of traditional leadership in the country’s development.
“As the Government of National Unity, I once again call on Amakhosi to join hands with us as we embark on a new, glorious future for South Africa and its people,” said President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.
The National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders comprises traditional leaders who are delegates from the Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders of South Africa and represent the Provincial Houses at national level.
He highlighted the historical significance of traditional leadership, noting that traditional leaders support governance in many rural and peri-urban communities, often facing the harshest conditions of poverty, inequality, and climate change.
The President expressed concern over the recent devastating floods in KwaZulu-Natal, which led to loss of life and destruction of property and infrastructure. He urged Amakhosi to work with disaster management teams to protect rural communities from extreme weather events.
“The recent floods in parts of KwaZulu-Natal have led to loss of life, damage to farming land, and the destruction of property and infrastructure. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the affected communities.
“I want to use this opportunity to call on you as Amakhosi to work with the disaster management response teams in our provinces and support the work that is being done to protect our rural communities against extreme weather,” he said.
READ | Level 2 heavy rain warning issued for KwaZulu-Natal
Killings
President Ramaphosa strongly condemned the increasing assassinations of traditional leaders, calling the attacks an “affront to our nation".
He referenced the recent killing of Contralesa NEC member and Ndzundza-Fene Traditional Council Chairperson, Kosi Thugwana, in Mpumalanga, stressing that such violence must be rooted out.
“Even one killing is one too many. Be assured that our law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrators of these heinous crime are brought to book.”
Shared prosperity
The President reiterated the government’s commitment to working with traditional and Khoi-San leaders to foster unity and development. He also emphasised the importance of their participation in the upcoming National Dialogue, a platform aimed at fostering inclusivity and shaping the country’s future.
He said that government will rely on the traditional leaders’ guidance to rally people towards a future of shared prosperity and inclusivity.
“It will be important that traditional leaders and the communities they lead [to] participate in the National Dialogue so that the process produces a plan that reflects the interests and aspirations of everyone.
“The Medium Term Development Plan that we have adopted as the Government of National Unity intends to advance three strategic priorities: to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living and to build a capable, ethical and developmental state,” the President explained.
He also highlighted ongoing consultations to review the White Paper on Local Government and emphasised the role of Amakhosi in shaping policies that affect rural communities.
The Deputy President has been mandated to facilitate dialogues with traditional leaders, further strengthening collaboration between government and traditional institutions.
Legislative developments
Following the Constitutional Court’s ruling that declared the Traditional and Khoi-San Leadership Act unconstitutional, the President confirmed that steps were being taken to reintroduce a revised bill in Parliament.
He urged traditional leaders to actively participate in consultations to ensure their interests are reflected in the legislation.
In addition, President Ramaphosa addressed the longstanding issue of customary initiation practices, particularly in the Eastern Cape, where fatalities and injuries continue to be a concern.
The government has gazetted regulations for public comment and is working towards drafting guidelines to regulate initiation school fees and prevent exploitation.
READ | Hlabisa and traditional leaders discuss safer customary initiation plan
Turning to the issue of land reform and economic development, the President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to land reform, noting the passage of the Expropriation Act as part of efforts to ensure that land is equitably shared.
The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has completed its work on the Communal Land Tenure Bill and is set to conduct public consultations.
Tackling gender-based violence and Forum of Majesties
The President urged Amakhosi to take a stand against gender-based violence and femicide, emphasising that such crimes have no place in African culture. He commended the House for its existing initiatives and called for greater involvement in protecting women and children.
“We know that such violence is not part of any culture. Violence against women and children is not part of the nation we want to build.”
Turning to traditional leadership, President Ramaphosa welcomed the launch of the Forum of South Africa’s Majesties, chaired by His Majesty King Makhosonke II, and acknowledged efforts to establish a similar platform for Queens.
He also encouraged traditional leaders to continue engaging with government ministries, particularly in sectors such as mineral resources, to ensure communities benefit from the country’s natural wealth.
G20 and National Budget
With South Africa set to host the G20 Summit for the first time later this year, the President urged traditional leaders to use the opportunity to showcase the nation’s diverse cultural heritage.
He also addressed the postponement of the Budget Speech, explaining that further discussions were necessary to align the priorities of the multi-party GNU.
READ | Government continues working for the people, despite Budget postponement
“In the interests of consensus-building, we are undertaking further discussions so that we can arrive at a budget that everyone can have confidence in a budget that promotes inclusive growth, supports job creation and that tackles poverty and inequality,” he said.
The President further emphasised that despite many challenges, it is through cooperation and partnership that a better South Africa can be built in which everyone enjoys equal opportunity and can lead lives of dignity. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 13:17
7 views
Level 2 heavy rain warning issued for KwaZulu-Natal
Level 2 heavy rain warning issued for KwaZulu-Natal
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a yellow level 2 heavy rain warning for KwaZulu-Natal.
This follows widespread flooding that has claimed the lives of nine people.
In a statement released Monday afternoon, the weather service warned of disruptive rainfall leading to localised flooding in susceptible areas, including formal and informal settlements, roads, bridges, and critical infrastructure in the province’s extreme northeastern regions.
On Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli visited the families of those affected by the recent severe weather conditions in the KwaMakhutha Township, south of Durban.
The floods have claimed the lives of three people, including the families’ graves, which were washed away due to the persistent rainfall in eThekwini and surrounding areas of the province.
The three affected families reside in KwaMakhutha, Mbumbulu, and Folweni.
Premier Ntuli expressed his condolences and reassured the public that the provincial government was taking immediate steps to provide assistance.
Ntuli said the MECs have already visited the area to assess the situation and ensure that those affected are not enduring further hardships.
He said the provincial government was committed to providing the necessary support, including temporary shelter and fixing the stormwater drainage system.
The Premier underscored the importance of allocating people in strategic areas, where they would be less vulnerable to floods.
“We asked the traditional leaders, when they allocate land for building houses, to consider flood-prone areas. Even in informal settlements, people must avoid building on land in floodplains,” Ntuli said.
While the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has a comprehensive disaster response plan in place designed to provide immediate assistance during and after such crises, the Premier stressed that prevention remains a top priority.
“We must prioritise early intervention over waiting until lives are lost. It is essential that people in KwaZulu-Natal observe the warnings given by weather service and CoGTA,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:11
128 views
Energise Mzansi campaign to empower South Africans on energy transition
Energise Mzansi campaign to empower South Africans on energy transition
The Energy Council of South Africa has launched a nationwide campaign to empower South Africans to gain a better understanding of and engage in the energy transition.
South Africa has committed to lowering carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 and usher in a green economy.
In that regard, government has also committed to an energy transition which is just, inclusive and which responds to South Africa’s developmental needs – leaving no one behind.
“Energy literacy is more than just understanding the basics, it’s the foundation for informed decision-making, constructive collaboration, and ultimately driving investment and economic growth through gained public positive sentiment.
“Through this campaign, we aim to connect South Africans with the factual information they need to make sense of the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the energy transition,” Energy Council CEO James Mackay said.
According to the council, the campaign focuses on six technical energy topics.
These are:
- Energy is an integrated system: Shifting from a polarised “supply mix” ideology to a practical, integrated system planning and delivery approach. This aims to balance supply side actions with demand response and changing trends, the increasing importance of infrastructure and digital integration and the critical issue of a competitive marketplace.
- Vital emissions obligations: South Africa has an intensive carbon footprint and is now exposed to carbon tax and carbon border adjustments from 2026 with its biggest trade partner, Europe.
- Ongoing coal dependency: Examining coal’s critical role in South Africa’s energy mix, which is still planned to be in operation well beyond 2026. The need for cleaner, reliable and more efficient use, and the pathway to a strategic, balanced transition not compromising energy security and economic stability.
- Bridging the transition with gas: Exploring how gas could provide crucial support to South Africa’s energy system by meeting fluctuating demand, system variability and bridging the gap as renewable energy grows and large coal stations are decommissioned.
- Scaling renewables and storage: Evaluating the growing adoption of solar and wind energy as well as battery storage, focusing on the advantages of renewable energy, the barriers to widespread deployment, and the role of technology in making renewables a central part of South Africa's energy future.
- Reforming the Energy Market: Understanding the critical need and benefits of a competitive wholesale electricity market to unlock investment, drive efficiency and lower prices, as well as anchor South Africa's future power sector eco-system
“The Energy Council estimates that R2 trillion will be required by 2035 for new technology financing and system upgrades. Government policy and commitment is clear. The two key drivers of our energy reform agenda are now anchored in law: The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, 2004 and the Climate Change Act, 2024.
“It is critical that informed responses lead the transition, ensuring collaboration across all stakeholders to create sustainable, long-term solutions for South Africa’s energy future,” the Energy Council said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 12:19
8 views
Government reiterates call to register spaza shops
Government reiterates call to register spaza shops
Government has encouraged all spaza shop owners and vendors to register their businesses with their local municipality by the end of the week.
“Spaza shops must be registered to ensure that food safety laws are followed, and dangerous goods are taken off the market, keeping children safe and preventing future outbreaks,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.
They have until Friday, 28 February 2025, to register their businesses.
Application forms for registration or permits to conduct business can be accessed physically at the municipal offices or on the municipality website.
The registration of a business takes one day, people must not wait until the last day to register.
“Citizens are reminded that registering a spaza shop on behalf of another person is a criminal offense. The Immigration Act of 2002 clearly states that it is a criminal offense to assist an illegal foreigner to conduct any business in the country and to assist an illegal foreigner to obtain a licence to conduct any business,” GCIS said.
For guidelines on spaza shop registrations visit: https://www.sanews.gov.za/features-south-africa/guide-register-spaza-shops.
Last year, President Cyril Ramaphosa extended the registration deadline for all spaza shops and food handling outlets after initially announcing the registration directive in November 2024.
This extension follows a serious incident involving foodborne illnesses, which resulted in over 890 cases and nearly 30 deaths since September 2024.
In October last year, six primary school children from Naledi, Soweto, died after allegedly eating snacks from a foreign-owned local spaza shop. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 10:53
40 views
Government activities for the week 24 – 28 February 2025
Government activities for the week 24 – 28 February 2025
On Monday, 24 February, the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, in collaboration with the World Bank and GSMA, will host a high-level workshop focused on accelerating access to affordable smart devices for all South Africans.
On Tuesday, 25 February, the Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai, will visit the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municiaplity in the Free State as part of the 2025 Back-to-School Programme.
On Wednesday, 26 February, Premier Alan Winde, will deliver the 2025 State of the Province Address (SOPA), outlining the Western Cape Government’s plans for the year ahead and reflecting on its achievements over the past year.
On Thursday, 27 February, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, undertakes an official working visit to the Middle East to attract infrastructure investment (20-27 February 2025).
Friday, 28 February, Parliament hosts the sitting of the permanent committees and pre-sitting meetings of the Pan-African Parliament (18-28 February 2025).
Neo
Tue, 02/25/2025 - 09:42
1 view
Call to intensify programme aimed at upgrading informal settlements
Call to intensify programme aimed at upgrading informal settlements
Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane has called on the department’s entities and branches responsible for informal settlements to work together to intensify the informal settlements upgrading programme and ensure the provision of essential services and adequate shelter.
“We need to urgently develop a strategy and plan to address the proliferation of informal settlements across the country with a special focus in the big cities and metros,” Simelane said.
The Minister made the call at the inauguration of human settlements entities’ boards and councils in Kempton Park on Friday.
The session introduced and empowered newly appointed boards and council members to the human settlements value chain.
In her address, Simelane underscored the need to address the spatial legacy of colonialism and apartheid, which perpetuates inequalities in land access and homeownership, with most people living in concentrated, poverty-stricken areas with limited access to social and economic amenities without security of tenure.
The Minister noted the department’s commitment to deliver 237 000 housing units for households earning less than R3 500 per month, prioritising well located land near economic opportunities and social amenities.
She said the Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses and Catalytic Projects were being implemented to integrate housing, transport, economic activities, and social services.
Efforts would require that the department work in collaboration and ensure that the boards and councils play their crucial role of oversight and support, to ensure efficiency.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that there are sustainable human settlements, and we help to transform the spatial legacy of apartheid and build an inclusive society in line with the priorities of the seventh administration, as earlier articulated.
“We must use the legislation and other empowering provisions at our disposal to restore the dignity of the historically disenfranchised,” Simelane said.
The Minister acknowledged the serious problem of blocked housing projects facing the department and its entities.
The Minister called for support of the Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP,) now known as the First Home Finance (FHF) Programme, and to make sure it gains the necessary traction to reach the targeted people.
“It might have not been adequately marketed, and it is the responsibility of the NHFC to make sure the programme is well communicated. Surprisingly, after I mentioned this programme during the SONA (State of the nation Address) debate, a lot of people started making enquiries about it, we will therefore have to lift our messaging in this regard.
“This will in earnest address the issues of limited housing finance for the missing middle. It will also contribute to the noble efforts of the transformation of the property market and enhance the government’s participation in the housing finance,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 10:39
170 views
Parties Hold Their Breath in Battle Over R300-Million Stellenbosch Mountain Estate
Judgment has been reserved in an urgent application to halt a luxury development on Botmaskop slopes
Innovation Fund: Everything you need to know
Innovation Fund: Everything you need to know
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has expressed its strong support for government's vision to bolster innovation as articulated by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The department said the Innovation Fund will be a key priority for the government in the 2025/26 financial year, with implementation overseen by the DSTI Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande.
In his address earlier this month, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the Innovation Fund, which aims to bolster the growth of innovative startups and technology-driven Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
“To build an innovative economy, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation will establish an Innovation Fund to provide venture capital to tech start-ups that emerge from our higher education institutions,” the President said in his speech.
What is the DSTI’s Innovation Fund?
In 2021, the DSTI launched the Innovation Fund as part of its comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at fostering innovation.
According to the department, the primary goal of the Innovation Fund is to stimulate the development and ongoing expansion of the high-tech SME sector.
It also aims to reduce risks associated with early-stage SME creation, fostering sustainable pipelines of viable, investable high-tech enterprises that can attract later-stage investments from the private sector.
In contrast to conventional financing institutions like private equity firms and commercial banks, the Innovation Fund is less stringent and offers more flexible yet thoroughly enforced financial support.
Who does this Fund target?
The Innovation Fund cuts across various stages of the SMEs’ business development life cycle and is structured to drive public-private co-investment in innovative high-tech SMEs.
The Innovation Fund model also leverages the investment expertise of institutions such Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the SA SME Fund and the Public Investment Cooperation (PIC), which in turn, drive the syndication of investment with various venture capital fund management entities.
What is the objective of the Fund?
Leverage Private Capital: Attract additional private sector investments into the South African innovation ecosystem and venture capital industry.
Stimulate Innovation: Encourage the development and commercialisation of locally developed IP and innovative products and services.
Support startups and tech-enabled SMEs: Provide catalytic capital backing to early-stage startups and tech-enabled SMEs.
Build a resilient innovation ecosystem: Strengthen the infrastructure and support systems for innovation and venture building, including venture studios, incubators, accelerators, hubs, and so on to ensure a robust and interconnected ecosystem.
DSTI’s financial investment:
The department has currently invested nearly R917.2 million in various investment intermediaries, including TIA, PIC, and the SA SME Fund.
This Fund has successfully leveraged over half a billion in co-investments from the private sector.
To date, it has provided support to 12 venture capital firms and approximately 96 technology investment opportunities and enterprises.
How can SMEs access the Fund?
More information on the Fund can be accessed at https://innovationbridge.info/ibportal/innovation-fund.
For current open calls visit https://www.tia.org.za/innovation-fund-first-time-and-emerging-fund-managers/ or https://epftechfund.orcaa.ai.
For further inquiries on the Fund please contact Mr Konanani Rashamuse on Koanani.Rashamuse@dsti.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 13:29
78 views
President Ramaphosa to open the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders
President Ramaphosa to open the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday address the annual opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders (NHTKL) in Parliament, Cape Town.
The National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders comprises traditional leaders who are delegates from the Provincial Houses of Traditional Leaders of South Africa and represent the Provincial Houses at national level.
In his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on 6 February 2025, President Ramaphosa reasserted Government's commitment to work with traditional leaders in the implementation of local development programmes.
“To meet the above objectives of a nation that works for all, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed Government’s collaboration with the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders as a vital conduit for creating jobs, reducing poverty and improving the lives of South Africans,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The President’s address is scheduled to start at 11:00 at the Good Hope Chamber. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 13:34
0 views
Hlabisa and traditional leaders discuss safer customary initiation plan
Hlabisa and traditional leaders discuss safer customary initiation plan
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring safer customary initiations.
The Minister led a productive engagement with Eastern Cape traditional leaders at the weekend. The gathering was the fifth since December 2024, showcasing the ongoing collaboration to protect the lives of young initiates while upholding this sacred cultural practice.
In December last year, Hlabisa conducted an emergency oversight visit to the Eastern Cape, where 28 young initiates tragically lost their lives during the summer initiation season.
According to the Department of CoGTA, a key milestone of the engagement was the collective agreement on a safer customary initiation plan.
The plan is aimed at eliminating preventable deaths and improving oversight during initiation seasons.
Hlabisa commended the proactive stance of traditional leaders, emphasising that their leadership is critical to successfully implementing safety measures.
“As COGTA, we stand firm in our resolve to work alongside traditional leaders to preserve our heritage while safeguarding the lives of initiates. Our shared goal is clear – zero deaths in the upcoming winter initiation season,” said Hlabisa.
This meeting addressed pressing challenges, particularly the eradication of illegal initiation schools, which remain a major threat to initiate safety.
Hlabisa called for stronger enforcement measures and urged traditional leaders to take a frontline role in ensuring that only registered and regulated initiation schools operate within their communities.
With the winter season fast approaching, the Minister called for immediate action to implement the agreed-upon safety plan, stressing that accountability and collective responsibility are key to success.
The engagement concluded with a unified commitment from all stakeholders to prioritise the safety of initiates and uphold cultural traditions with dignity and responsibility.
The Minister urged everyone present to commit to their efforts to protect the lives of the initiates.
“We must all stand together and say no more deaths. Our culture is a source of pride, and we have a duty to pass it on safely from one generation to the next,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 08:49
166 views
Media called to enter 2025 SADC Media Awards competition
Media called to enter 2025 SADC Media Awards competition
South African journalists/media have been invited to submit their entries for the 2025 SADC Media Awards competition.
The SADC Media Awards competition is open to journalists from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States.
The awards were established in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration in the region.
To promote regional integration and cooperation, the awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region.
The first prize winners will receive their prizes and certificates on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government that will take place in August 2025.
The first prize winner in each category receives US$2500 and the runner-up receives US$1000.
Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.gcis.gov.za website.
The entry forms can be found at https://lnkd.in/dN9BrxAc.
The rules of the 2025 competition can be accessed at https://lnkd.in/drPn2KBs.
Entries need to be posted or delivered to the MDDA or any GCIS offices nationwide marked:
MDDA Offices or GCIS Offices
SADC Media Awards Entry SADC Media Awards Entry
GSM Building Government Communications (GCIS)
SABC Auckland Park Campus 1035 Francis Baard Street
Johannesburg Hatfield, Pretoria
2006 0028
All entries must be submitted no later than 28 February 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 09:52
150 views
Government continues working for the people, despite Budget postponement
Government continues working for the people, despite Budget postponement
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the events of last week present an opportunity to raise the level of understanding among South Africans around the budget and what it means for them.
This as the annual Budget Speech by the Minister of Finance was postponed last week for the first time in the nation’s democratic history.
“As GNU [Government of National Unity] partners, we will continue working for the South African people. As we have done in the past to overcome differences, we will once again find one another.
“The considerable public interest around the Budget Speech, including from young people and on social media platforms, was greatly encouraging. It is our hope that this sparks a necessary national conversation on how we will fund our national priorities and the trade-offs that will need to be made,” the President said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.
Cabinet decided to postpone the presentation of the budget to allow further discussion on areas of disagreement among parties in the GNU. The budget will now be tabled in Parliament on 12 March 2025.
READ | Budget postponed for further deliberations
“The last-minute postponement was unfortunate. It gave rise to concern and uncertainty among South Africans, investors and the financial markets, who look to the Budget for important signals about the state and direction of our economy,” the President said.
He further highlighted that the budget reflects government’s choices and priorities for the country’s development.
“Decisions on how to spend public funds have implications for every South African. It is therefore essential that the concerns raised by different parties around the budget are properly addressed, in the interests of accountability, transparency and consensus-building,” he said.
President Ramaphosa noted that this is the first time that the budget is being presented by the Government of National Unity. He said that it is understandable that this new arrangement would require a different approach in some respects.
He told the nation that the process of forging agreement among the political parties in the GNU is still work in progress.
“Disagreements, contradictions and policy divergence are inherent in governments made up of several political parties.
“It has been more than six months since the formation of the GNU. Despite disagreement between parties on a range of matters, the centre holds. It is a sign of a healthy and robust democracy that such differences may emerge from time to time and be ventilated in public.
“Such differences don’t mean that the GNU is in crisis. It means that democracy is working. A Government of National Unity by definition infers consensus-building. No one party can impose its will. There needs to be thorough deliberation and meaningful engagement,” the President explained.
Public confidence
He added that the decision to postpone the Budget Speech and to continue discussions should engender public confidence in the GNU. It should reassure citizens that despite differences of opinion, government is pulling in the same direction.
He further added that the reality is that government strives to implement national priorities in a context of slow growth, limited revenue, high unemployment and a large social wage. The state is simply not able to fund every priority and ambition.
The President emphasised that the critical issue of the public purse must be a subject of discussion and debate not just among political parties, but among all South Africans who aspire to lead lives of dignity.
“The social contract between government and the citizenry relies heavily on accountability and transparency. These have been features of our budgetary process since the advent of democracy.
“The formation of the GNU was the result of the desire by the South African people that political parties work together to move the country forward.
“As we continue to do so, we are adapting and strengthening our existing frameworks for cooperation, partnership and building consensus. We are learning, we are adjusting to new circumstances and we are moving forward,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/24/2025 - 10:16
68 views
End of load shedding remains within reach
End of load shedding remains within reach
The Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa is confident that the end of load shedding in South Africa is within reach.
Briefing the media on Sunday following an implementation of Stage 6 load shedding, Ramokgopa assured the nation that government and Eskom are making long-term decisions in the best interest of the country's power grid and economy.
“At all material points, we will never make expedient decisions at the cost of the grid, because the consequences will be too ghastly to contemplate. That is why it is important that to the degree that we need to initiate load shedding, understanding fully well that is going to deliver a message of an entity and a ministry that essentially is dropping the ball.
“But we are making the point that we will not make expedient decisions. We'll make decisions that are in the interest of the of the grid and in the long term, in the interest of the South African economy,” the Minister explained.
The Minister further reassured the public that there is significant progress in stabilising the electricity supply.
“And I give you the assurance, that point I always make consistently, the end of load shedding is within touching distance,” he said.
New capacity
The Minister highlighted key developments in Eskom's recovery plan, including the synchronisation of Kusile Unit 6, initially expected by the end of February but now scheduled for 9 March.
Medupi Unit 4 is expected at the end of March or early April. These additions will bring 1,600 megawatts to the grid.
"Of course, the Medupi one is what we lost; we are recovering that. The Kusile unit, however, is entirely new capacity. I'm confident that we are moving in the right direction.
“I want to say to the rest of the country, you are going through pain, we understand your anger, we feel your pain, we can hear your cries. We will resolve this problem,” Ramokgopa said.
READ | Load shedding expected to be suspended by the end of the week
Staying the course
Ramokgopa emphasised that government remains committed to the generation recovery plan, which he said is yielding positive results despite occasional setbacks.
“We're staying the course in relation to the generation recovery plan, because that generation recovery plan is giving us the results that we desire. We have accepted that there are going to be setbacks.
He explained that the ongoing maintenance work is a critical part of ensuring that when the government ultimately declares load shedding a thing of the past, it does so with confidence.
“But as I’ve said consistently, when I stood before the nation to give an update on the grid’s performance, I made the point [that there will be] short-term pain, [and] long-term gain. We cannot postpone the maintenance of these assets.
“That’s why we are able to allocate the capital received from National Treasury to ensure that we carry out the necessary maintenance so that when we stand before you … that load shedding is behind us I'm able to speak with a degree of confidence. That is why I have not been able to make that absolute statement, because we have accepted that there are inherent risk in relation to the strategy that we have taken,” he explained.
In response to concerns about Eskom’s operational decisions, Ramokgopa dismissed any suggestions of underhanded dealings, reiterating that all efforts are aimed at long-term sustainability.
"We're not going to do shortcuts in relation to our obligations to the environment. We are committed to ensuring that South Africa’s energy supply is both stable and sustainable. As part of this journey to ensure that we eliminate load shedding, we're going to ensure that we keep to our obligations in relation to the environment,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 15:50
629 views
SA welcomes first visitors from China through new visa initiative
SA welcomes first visitors from China through new visa initiative
The digital Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) visa initiative is bearing fruit with the first group of visitors from China having arrived in South Africa at the weekend.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber along with Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and other government and tourism stakeholders welcomed the first group of visitors from China through the TTOS visa initiative.
The 15 tourists arrived on Saturday through the Cape Town International Airport in the Western Cape.
The Ministers were delighted to welcome the tourists and a tour guide who arrived in South Africa only a few days after their visas were processed through the Department of Home Affairs visa initiative.
“This was an exciting moment in this ground-breaking initiative where the TTOS is providing a faster and more seamless process for visas for travellers from India and China. Together with the Department of Home Affairs we have worked tirelessly to make this happen and I commend Minister Schreiber and the team in the Department of Home Affairs for the swift implementation of this new and improved visa initiative,” Minister de Lille said.
Last year, an Inter-Ministerial Committee with the Department of Tourism, the Department of Home Affairs, the State Security Agency and Operation Vulindlela in the Presidency was established to tackle the visa regime issues.
Home Affairs announced that the ground-breaking Trusted Tour Operator Scheme will significantly ease the process and allow for a seamless visa application process for travellers and tour operators from India and China.
READ | Trusted Tour Operator Scheme to boost tourism from China, India
From 12 February, the first group of approved 65 tour operators from South Africa, India and China started processing visa applications through the TTOS.
India and China have been identified as two key source markets for South Africa to grow arrivals due to the high number of tourists who travel internationally from these countries.
Currently, South Africa only receives 41 600 arrivals from India and 79 700 from China, a minor share of the country’s total arrivals for 2024 which stood at 8.9million total international arrivals.
“The TTOS is a massive win for the tourism and business events sector and the Department of Tourism will use the new visa initiatives as enablers to grow tourism arrivals to South Africa which will in turn drive inclusive economic growth and job creation,” Minister de Lille added.
Through targeted outreach engagements in India and China, the country has also been sharing the developments of the TTOS, the Electronic Travel Authorisation and Digital Nomad Visas with these two key source markets to ensure that more tour operators register and use these new and enhanced visa processes.
“We are extremely excited about these visa developments and what it means for the growth of the tourism sector. We have no doubt that the TTOS will exponentially increase arrivals from India and China which will stimulate demand across the tourism and services sector,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 16:01
102 views
Minister meets His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini over FMD
Minister meets His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini over FMD
Challenges posed by the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in KwaZulu-Natal were at the core of Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen and His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini's meeting recently.
“The engagement formed part of the Department’s [of Agriculture] intensified efforts to curb the spread of the disease and protect the province’s livestock sector. The main objective of the meeting was to seek His Majesty’s support in controlling the spread of FMD, which has remained a challenge in the region.
“KwaZulu-Natal continues to be one of the most affected provinces, with over 130 active outbreaks in communal dip tanks, small-scale farms, and five game reserves,” the department said.
This as two additional suspected outbreaks are currently under investigation.
Friday’s discussions held at the eMashobeni Royal Palace in Nongoma focused on collaborative solutions, including enhanced disease management strategies, improved biosecurity measures, and support for affected farmers.
“His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini expressed his full support for the Department’s efforts and committed to leading by example. He has invited the Department to his farm to commence vaccination efforts, demonstrating his dedication to disease control and livestock health in the region.
“Additionally, the Department of Agriculture confirmed that funding for vaccinations in the affected areas has been made available, ensuring that vaccination efforts can be ramped up to contain the disease.”
Following the meeting, Minister Steenhuisen commended King Misuzulu kaZwelithini’s leadership and commitment to working with government structures to support farmers and strengthen disease control measures.
“The Department of Agriculture remains committed to working closely with traditional leaders, farmers, veterinary officials and industry role-players to mitigate the impact of FMD and restore stability in the livestock industry.”
The Minister was accompanied on his visit by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture, Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa and industry role-players. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 15:54
46 views
Load shedding expected to be suspended by the end of the week
Load shedding expected to be suspended by the end of the week
The Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has assured South Africans that the country will overcome the current bout of load shedding crisis by the end of the week.
The Minister along with Eskom executives were briefing the media on Sunday to provide an update on the status of South Africa’s electricity generation performance.
The briefing follows an announcement by Eskom that it had implemented Stage 6 load shedding as of 1:30 am on Sunday.
“I'm confident that by the end of the week, we should be out of this difficult situation. We are confident we're going to go to conditions of normality. By the end of the week there will not be [any] load shedding. We would have gone through this wave and of course, we want the country to get accustomed to being normal.
“And in fact, something called load shedding should be considered extremely abnormal,” Ramokgopa said.
READ | Electricity Minister and Eskom to provide power update
The Minister explained that despite 300 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply, recent setbacks occurred, including the loss of five generation units at Majuba and four units at Camden power stations.
Eskom CEO Dan Marokane said out of the 10 units lost overnight, six were back online.
“We have five to six units that are planned to come back in operation during the course of today and we will take stock just after 8 o’clock in the evening, after the evening peak. Our teams are very focused on returning these units,” Marokane told media at the briefing in Pretoria.
He said the loss of multiple units at the Majuba power station was occasioned by an overload on a transformer.
Marokane said when they checked the situation at Majuba on Saturday, it coincided with the trip to Medupi power station which had to do with the underfrequency in the network.
At Majuba, five units were lost but were brought two back online by 6am on Sunday, as well as one at Camden. The power utility would proceed to bring the rest of the units back into operation.
“Essentially, what really pushed us into the position that we found ourselves [in] having to initiate load shedding at very short notice yesterday at 5:30 pm was the loss of multiple units at Majuba power station.
“This was occasioned by initially an overload on a transformer as a result of the startup of a unit that was coming out of a long-term outage and that essentially started the domino effect of reticulation supply cutting to the rest of the units. And one by one, those units gave in,” he explained.
He added that “we have understood the exact nature of how the event came about, and we are able to isolate it overnight and start addressing it.”
“Of course, in the coming week, we will be diving deeper into ensuring that, from a system design perspective, we are able to contain such occurrences going forth. And we'll also assess where else the rest may be lying in our fleet,” the CEO said.
Apology
Meanwhile, the Minister apologised for the recent setback and explained the efforts to address the load shedding issue.
“Let me also say at the onset that I want on behalf of government, and the leadership of Eskom, to express our regret and convey our apology to the rest of the country. The fact that we are experiencing load shedding and secondly, that we are experiencing the intensity of load shedding that we haven’t experienced in a long time.
“The levels of agitation, levels of anger and disappointment are understood because we are really on a journey to ensure that indeed ultimately, we are able to eradicate load shedding.”
He said that the setback was regrettable as was the one that occurred earlier this month.
The Minister explained that it was important to share how the country got to Stage 6 load shedding.
First, he explained that his department and Eskom are guided by the Energy Action Plan that the President outlined in July 2022, of which one of its outcomes is to fix Eskom.
The Minister emphasised that there was no sabotage involved on the basis of evidence in their disposal.
"I want to say to the rest of the country; the evidence that is before us is that this is a technical issue. I am making this point because we must not find any reasons to manufacture explanations of why we are at Stage 6 and point fingers somewhere else,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 15:06
95 views
Government remains committed to preserving local industries
Government remains committed to preserving local industries
Government is committed to preserving local industries and safeguarding employment opportunities, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said.
This as government acknowledged the concerns raised by the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) on the impact of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s (AMSA) decision to wind down its long steel business.
“We recognise the significance of this matter for workers, the broader steel industry, and the economy,” said the department in a statement on Saturday.
This as NUMSA staged a picket outside the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to voice their demands on Friday.
“The Minister is awaiting the memorandum to be presented by the board regarding these demands. Once received, the Minister will consider the issues raised and respond appropriately.
“The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) remains committed to engaging all stakeholders, including AMSA, organised labour, and industry partners, to find sustainable solutions. We continue to explore all possible avenues to avert job losses, support affected workers and ensure the resilience of South Africa’s steel sector,” said the department.
The dtic urged all parties to engage constructively “as we work towards interventions that protect industrial capacity while securing long-term economic stability.”
“The government remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving local industries and safeguarding employment opportunities,” said the department.
In January, the dtic said the steel industry is critical in the reconstruction and recovery plan for the South African economy, particularly the manufacturing, mining, construction, engineering, and transportation sectors.
This as AMSA announced that it was winding down its longs steel business at its Newcastle plant.
“The department notes with serious concern the announcement by ArcelorMittal South Africa to wind down its longs steel business at its Newcastle plant. In fulfilment of its mandate to work with the private sector in growing the local economy the dtic remains committed to working with AMSA to find a workable and lasting situation,” the department said in a statement at the time.
During the course of 2024, AMSA had reached out to various government departments and state-owned entities with requests for different concessions for their business. Having taken heed of these requests, the Minister of the dtic took the decision to form a comprehensive and coordinated approach to resolving the issues raised by AMSA.
READ | DTIC notes ArcelorMittal South Africa’s decision
The Minister set up a technical working group made up of the relevant stakeholders including the dtic and AMSA, the Departments of Electricity and Energy, Transport, as well as Eskom, Transnet and private sector stakeholders. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 12:02
168 views
Sustainability of black farmers is crucial for SA’s sugar industry
Sustainability of black farmers is crucial for SA’s sugar industry
Government is committed to ensuring that the more than 24 000 black small-scale sugarcane farmers remain an integral part of the multi-billion-rand sugar industry, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said.
The industry is the bedrock of rural economies in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga.
Steenhuisen met with a number of small-scale growers and the sugar industry leadership at KwaShukela in Mount Edgecombe, Durban.
“The sustainability of the small-scale sugarcane farmers must remain one of the main priorities for both government and the industry. I am passionate about the cause of small-scale farmers to ensure their growth and success. You are part of the agriculture family, and we regard you as very important stakeholders in agriculture," said the Minister on Friday.
The leadership of the sugar industry at the meeting was led by the South African Sugar Association (SASA), the South African Farmers Development Association, SA Canegrowers and South African Sugar Millers’ Association.
SASA has been at the forefront of the efforts aimed at securing the sustainability of the small-scale sugarcane farmers (SSGs).
“The dire situation of SSGs necessitated a decisive intervention by SASA and industry leaders, hence the installation of the billion-rand empowerment plan. An average of 13 349 SSGs per season have benefited from the Transformation Intervention Fund since the 2019/2020 season,” the Ministry of Agriculture said.
It added that SASA has spent R1.09 billion on empowerment interventions/initiatives, especially for the benefit of black small-scale growers.
Of the R1.09 billion, SSGs received R700.55 million (64.27%), black large-scale growers (LSGs) received R254.47 million (25.22%) and the value of other interventions for black beneficiaries amounted to R137.88 million (12.64%).
Furthermore, the extension of empowerment funding (R238.9 million for the current season) will continue to have a positive impact on SSGs and black growers in general. Two major categories of interventions exist – cane delivery-based and non-delivery-based interventions.
“The condition for receiving this cane delivery-based grant funding is for growers to be active farmers who deliver sugarcane.
“Besides the cane delivery-based grant funding to black growers, further funding examples include the R46.5 million infrastructure rehabilitation project in the Nkomazi region, Mpumalanga (which has greatly benefited SSGs and led to 300 hectares of cane being established), the R3.3 million SSG-driven rail siding initiative in Mkhuze, KwaZulu-Natal (making it possible for 70 000 tons of SSG cane to be transported to the Felixton Mill for the Makhathini-based growers at a significantly lower transport cost) and the installation of a dummy spiller (R7.6 million) at the Gledhow Sugar Mill for cane delivery by SSGs, which reduced SSG hauler turnaround times and transport costs.”
Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan
Phase One of the Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan to 2030 has cemented the foundational role of SSGs.
A minimum of R60 million of the Premium Price Payment (PPP) to SSGs as part of the Master Plan, for a period of three seasons (2021/2022 to 2023/2024), was allocated, escalating annually to R68 051 340 in the 2023/2024 season.
The 2023/2024 season was the last year of the PPP. However, on 20 March 2024, SASA Council approved the extension of PPP to 2024/2025 with an inflationary adjustment, meaning the allocation for this season is R71.08 million.
Through the Master Plan processes, the industry has been able to pinpoint challenges or factors which impede the envisaged growth of SSGs through surveys that engaged more than 2 500 growers. Some of these factors include access to land and capital.
“There are limited opportunities for individual small-scale growers to expand their area under cane due to the lack of access to land and the dispersed distribution of cane farms in the deep rural areas of KZN and Mpumalanga. SASA is focused on ensuring that the lack of economies of scale, long transport distances and high contractor costs, are mitigated by the grants and other support to small-scale growers.”
The Ministry said that the long-term strategy is to ensure that small-scale growers remain in cane farming and are sustainable with improved productivity in the short-term while medium to long-term interventions are being developed.
“The industry is now working on putting together an intervention plan for the improving the livelihoods of SSGs across the industry. This forms part of Phase Two of the Master Plan, which is yet to be signed and implemented, with Phase One having expired on 31 March 2023,” it said. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 02/23/2025 - 12:53
31 views