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African countries urged to address climate change

Location: News

African countries urged to address climate change

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George has called on African countries to act with resolve and clarity of purpose on issues of climate change.

This as the Minister attended the annual Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 16 February.

The meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the 38th African Union (AU) Summit, is where Heads of African States and Government consider climate issues of strategic importance to the Continent.

During this session, the Coordinator of CAHOSCC, Dr William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya delivered his report which highlighted various developments since the last meeting in 2024.

The report included reflections on the outcomes of the 29th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in November 2024 and the implications for Africa, the CAHOSCC report from the meeting held on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, in September 2024, updates from the Africa Climate Initiatives and Commissions, and the operationalisation of the Africa Climate Summit outcomes.

The CAHOSCC meeting also considered and submitted a draft decision on key climate change issues for adoption by the AU Assembly.

While delivering his intervention at the meeting, Dr George reiterated the need for African countries to "act with resolve and clarity of purpose" and went on to highlight the opportunities to do so through South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

“The Minister is leading on the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG) which has the overall objective to advance the environmental dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through focusing on a number of priorities and deliverables,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said in a statement on Saturday.

These include focusing on adapting to climate change and building resilience, addressing loss and damage, the just transition and mobilising climate finance.

The other priority areas include biodiversity and conservation, addressing land degradation, desertification and drought, sustainable chemicals and waste management as well as oceans and coasts.

Following a request by Dr George in his intervention, the meeting resolved to request the AU Commission to convene a consultative meeting with AU Member States to deliberate about the priorities and proposed deliverables for the ECSWG prior to the first virtual meeting of the Working Group in March 2025. -SAnews.gov.za

 

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Sun, 02/23/2025 - 12:18
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Afreximbank to Set up $1 Billion Oil Service Financing Facility in Guyana

Location: Business
Afreximbank

In a significant announcement at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo being held from, February 18 - 21, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), declared the multilateral Bank's intention to establish a $1 billion oil service financing facility in Guyana. This initiative aims to enhance local participation in the country's fast growing oil industry, in alignment with the government's local content policies. The Bank will deploy the $1 billion facility directly to qualifying corporate clients or through a factoring line via local banks, enabling them to finance invoices from local contractors.

President Oramah highlighted the transformative potential of Guyana's estimated 12 billion barrels of crude oil reserves. Emphasising the transformative power in proactive resource management, he advised Guyana to aggressively harness and build capital from its oil resources.

He said, "Given the level of oil production in Guyana and its offshore location, I estimate that the oil service sector would amount to 5 to 8 billion US dollars annually. But where will it go? Most of it would be paid to oil service companies abroad, if Guyana does nothing to avoid that. A 50% retention in Guyana would increase Guyana's GDP by 29% to 47%.” As such, he called for robust local content policies that would enable Guyanese entrepreneurs to become significant players in the oil value chain.

Based on Afreximbank's rich history of supporting commodity-dependent economies, President Oramah shared insights to complement the ongoing efforts of the Guyanese government. He acknowledged the inherent risks associated with dependency on a single commodity and laid stress on the importance of diversification.

He cautioned, “The commodity market is prone to volatility and cyclicality; hence, the reliance on crude revenues as a primary source of government funding could expose the national economy to volatile commodity markets." As such, he advised the government to secure long-term off-take contracts with oil service companies, which will enhance market access and price stability.

In the spirit of deepening Afri-Caribbean partnership, President Oramah remarked that skilled oil service companies from Ghana, Egypt, and South Africa, are "ready and willing to support Guyanese... And of course, Afreximbank is there to underwrite the marriage.”

He added that: “These measures are necessary if Guyana and other new entrants in the Caribbean and Africa are to avoid the painful "Dutch Disease. We make these suggestions based on the three long decades of financing oil and gas activities across Africa. We have witnessed oil-dependent economies transform for better or worse through these periods. In all these, the difference reflected the policy choices the leaders made.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank's total assets and contingencies stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, "the Group"). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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Cabinet calls for national unity against misinformation and external pressure

Location: News

Cabinet calls for national unity against misinformation and external pressure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:01
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Cabinet briefed on implications of aid funding withdrawal

Location: News

Cabinet briefed on implications of aid funding withdrawal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Fri, 02/21/2025 - 11:07
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Cabinet commends Class of 2024 for impressive results

Location: News

Cabinet commends Class of 2024 for impressive results

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Cabinet supports bold vision outlined by President’s SONA

Location: News

Cabinet supports bold vision outlined by President's SONA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:34
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Saudi Arabia Expands Energy Ties With Africa

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

Earlier this week, Egypt's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Karim Badawi and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Energy Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud signed an agreement to develop an executive plan for energy efficiency cooperation, strengthening bilateral ties in the energy sector and fostering sustainable development. This follows another significant development in September, in which Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly secured a $5 billion pledge from Saudi Arabia's PIF, representing the “first phase” of a larger investment strategy. 

As a leading global energy giant, Saudi Arabia has been actively investing in Africa's energy sector, aiming to expand its energy reserves, advance energy diplomacy and compete with other global superpowers. This strategic push not only strengthens Saudi Arabia's influence in the region, but also paves the way for deeper economic and political ties with African nations. 

To date, the lion's share of investment in Africa's energy sector has focused on clean energy advancements. With total project costs reaching $7 billion across the continent, Saudi developer ACWA Power stands as the leading private-sector investor in African renewable energy. In October 2024, the company announced that its Redstone solar plant in South Africa was set to achieve its full 100 MW capacity, while its Kom Ombo solar PV plant in Egypt successfully reached its full capacity of 200 MW. ACWA Power is also leading Project DAO, South Africa's largest hybrid renewable power plant, with an $800 million investment. The project is expected to come online by 2026 and aligns with the Kingdom's broader Vision 2030 goals.  

In addition to renewable energy, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its investments to secure critical minerals for clean energy technologies. In October, Saudi Arabia's Manara Minerals, a joint venture between Ma'aden and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), entered advanced talks to acquire a minority stake in First Quantum Minerals' Zambian copper and nickel assets. The potential investment, valued between $1.5 billion and $2 billion, underscores Saudi Arabia's strategy to secure critical minerals that are vital for the global clean energy transition. 

Turning to broader regional commitments, Saudi Arabia's financial support for Africa's energy infrastructure has grown. In October, the Kingdom announced a major funding initiative, pledging at least $41 billion for sub-Saharan African nations. This includes $1 billion for development, $5 billion for startups, $10 billion in financing from the Saudi Export-Import Bank and $25 billion in private sector investments over the next decade.  

Meanwhile, the Saudi Ministry of Energy has established the "Empowering Africa" initiative as part of its broader commitment to supporting sustainable development across the continent. In collaboration with the Ministries of Communications and Information Technology and Health, the initiative aims to deliver clean energy, connectivity, e-health and e-learning solutions to enhance lives and promote long-term growth in Africa. Building upon the Clean Fuel Solutions for Cooking Program, it focuses on providing cleaner cooking solutions to vulnerable populations, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional biomass fuels and improve health outcomes for millions of households. Minister bin Salman Al Saud has emphasized energy as a fundamental human right and is spearheading efforts to improve access to clean cooking technologies across the continent. 

Additionally, state-owned petroleum company Saudi Aramco is strengthening its partnerships with African nations to support energy investments and mobilization. These collaborations are expected to drive infrastructure development, enhance oil and gas production capacity and facilitate knowledge transfer between Saudi and African energy stakeholders, while aligning with broader energy security and sustainability goals.  

In the multilateral arena, the African Energy Chamber is working with Saudi Arabia to support South Africa's G20 energy investments and mobilization. This partnership is set to facilitate greater financing and policy coordination, ensuring Africa's energy priorities are well-represented in global energy discussions. The upcoming African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies conference in Cape Town serves as a key platform to facilitate and support these investments, bringing together Saudi stakeholders, African governments and global energy leaders to advance new projects, strengthen partnerships and accelerate the continent's energy transition. These collaborations are essential in addressing energy challenges, driving economic growth and fostering long-term sustainability. As Saudi investments expand – alongside those of other G20 nations – their impact on Africa's energy landscape will only deepen.  

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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BMA facilitated smooth arrival of G20 Foreign Ministers

Location: News

BMA facilitated smooth arrival of G20 Foreign Ministers

The Border Management Authority (BMA) says the processing of dignitaries arriving for the G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting, currently underway in Johannesburg, was carried out smoothly.

“The G20 Ministers started arriving in the country from 19 February 2025 and will depart from 22 February 2025, using OR Tambo International Airport and Lanseria International Airport.

“Working together with law enforcement agencies, the BMA has ensured seamless processing of the Foreign Ministers in a safe environment upon arrival. To this effect, the BMA has augmented its capacity at these two airports and allocated dedicated Immigration counters for the delegates to ensure speedy processing of all travellers,” BMA Commissioner Masiapato said in a statement.

The two-day meeting which began on Thursday is taking place in Nasrec, Johannesburg.

South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024, which will culminate in a meeting of G20 Heads of State and Government later in November.

Various sectoral Ministerial meetings will be held throughout the year in the lead up to November. 
G20 members include the world’s major economies.

The BMA is a Schedule 3A National Public Entity established in April 2023 with the mandate of facilitating legitimate movement of goods and persons.

Speaking at the opening of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at Nasrec in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa emphasised the significance of hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil. 

The Foreign Ministers' Meeting, hosted by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, takes place under South Africa's G20 Presidency theme of 'Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability'. 

“Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and faces unique challenges, such as the impact of climate change, development needs and the effects of global trade dynamics.

“The Summit's location underscores the need for African voices to be heard on critical global issues, like sustainable development, the digital economy and the shift toward green energy,” President Ramaphosa said in his address on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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AEW 2025 to Fuel Regional Investment as Southern Africa Advances (O & G) Development

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

From significant oil deposits in Namibia's Orange Basin to untapped potential in South Africa to gas frontiers onshore Zimbabwe and developments in Mozambique and Angola, Southern Africa has emerged as a highly-promising oil and gas market. However, to unlock the full potential of the industry, investors need to rally, providing the much-needed capital and technology to boost energy development across the region.

African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies – taking place September 29 to October 2, 2025 - will highlight Southern Africa's energy potential, from major projects and exploration campaigns to investment opportunities and emerging challenges. By uniting regional governments, major operators and global stakeholders, the event fosters collaboration, serving as a catalyst for South African energy development.

Angola Drives Exploration Towards Near-Term Production

Sub-Saharan Africa's second-largest oil producer, Angola continues to leverage industry reform to accelerate exploration and development. Seeking to maintain oil output above one million barrels per day while increasing natural gas production, the country is preparing to launch the final bid round of its six-year licensing strategy in Q1, 2025. Offering nine blocks for exploration in the deepwater Kwanza and Benguela basins, the round is expected to entice major deepwater players to expand their portfolios offshore Angola. To further support production growth, the country introduced five marginal fields for exploration in 2024 and continues to promote blocks available on direct negotiation. Major projects such as the Cabinda Oil Refinery (2025); the New Gas Consortium (early-2026); and the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development (mid-2026) are also set to fuel production.

Mozambique Targets LNG Advancement

With over 100 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of gas resources in the Rovuma Basin, Mozambique is pushing ahead with several large-scale LNG projects. These include the operational 3.4 million ton per annum (MTPA) Coral South FLNG project; the under-development 3.37 MTPA Coral North project; the 18 MTPA Rovuma LNG project; and the 13 MTPA Mozambique LNG project. Despite delays, operators are committed to accelerating development. While pushing the Mozambique LNG project timeline from 2027 to 2029/2030, TotalEnergies expects a U.S. loan approval to be restored under the Trump administration in the coming weeks. ExxonMobil also anticipates FID for the Rovuma project by 2026, paving the way for advanced development.

Namibia: The Next Deepwater Oil Producer

Following a string of discoveries in the offshore Orange Basin, Namibia is working towards first oil production by 2029. The Venus-1X discovery by TotalEnergies is at the forefront of this goal, with the French major seeking to finalize its phase one development plan in 2025 and make FID in 2026. However, the development of the Mopane well – situated in PEL 83 and operated by oil and gas firm Galp - could bring the timeline to first production much closer. Two discoveries were made at the Mopane 1-A well and the Mopane 2-A well, and the operator is now seeking a farm-in partner to develop the asset. Other companies such as Shell, Petrobras, Africa Oil Corp, Chevron and more are also investing offshore while independents including ReconAfrica and Sintana Energy are conducting exploration and appraisal drilling onshore.

South Africa Prioritizes Gas Exploration, Renewable Expansion

Two offshore basins have generated significant interest by foreign player in South Africa: the Southern Outeniqua Basin and the Orange Basin. Southern Outeniqua featured two major gas discoveries made by TotalEnergies (Luiperd and Brulpadda) in 2019 and 2020, representing some of Africa's biggest finds made during the period. While TotalEnergies exited the Southern Outeniqua basin in 2024, the company has turned its attention to South Africa's Orange Basin, hoping to mirror upstream success in neighboring Namibia. Other firms including Africa Oil Corp, Shell and Petrobras are investing in the Orange Basin, and all eyes are on future discoveries offshore South Africa.

Zimbabwe: An Onshore Gas Frontier

Zimbabwe made headlines in 2022 when Invictus Energy announced successful drilling activities at the Mukuyu-1 well at the onshore Cabora Bassa Project. This was followed by the discovery of gas at the Mukuyu-2 well in 2023, with the find revealing the potential for 20 TCF of gas resources. In 2025, the company completed an independence review of the Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement, which would enable the Invictus Energy to unlock value-sharing from the project. Going forward, the company is pursuing a 3D seismic survey alongside appraisal drilling and well testing to further delineate the resource potential while refining development plans and improving the operational efficiency. All eyes are on the project as Zimbabwe strives to bring its first natural gas development to fruition.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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Mpumalanga strengthens fight against GBVF

Location: News

Mpumalanga strengthens fight against GBVF

Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu has launched the Provincial Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide that will improve access to essential services for GBVF victims.

Wednesday’s launch in Secunda marked a step forward in the province’s commitment to addressing the deep-seated inequalities and GBVF that plagues communities.

The newly established council will focus on improving access to essential services for GBVF victims, including shelters, counselling, legal support, and healthcare. 

It is envisaged that the structure will develop an action plan for the implementation of the Provincial Strategic Plan on GBVF (PSP-GBVF), recently approved by Members of the Executive Council (EXCO).

Ndlovu said the launch affirms the provincial government’s commitment to fight the GBVF pandemic, given the increase in GBVF cases in the province.

Ndlovu said the statistics of sexual offences, which increased from 641 in March 2022 to 746 in March 2023, underscores the urgency of the structure. 

“Through the provincial structure, we are bringing together government, civil society, and the private sector to create a collective response to GBVF. The structure will effectively coordinate all GBVF intervention programmes, in our quest to eliminate the pandemic.

“We stand in solidarity with survivors, dedicating ourselves to rebuilding their lives, and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their heinous crimes. Justice will be served, and no offender will go unpunished. This initiative is a testament to our unwavering resolve to create a safer, more equitable society for all,” the Premier said.

The council will be constituted by government representatives, with the Premier as a co-Chairperson, the private sector, the civil society, and traditional leadership.

A pledge was signed at the end of the event as a commitment by all stakeholders to fight GBVF.

The launch aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s declaration of GBVF as a national crisis and a second pandemic. – SAnews.gov.za

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Conference discusses strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion

Location: News

Conference discusses strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion

Without a dedicated plan and political will to combat patriarchal forms of exploitation, Africa’s commitment to eradicating “all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination against women and girls” by 2063, will remain hollow.

These were remarks made by the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga.

The Minister was speaking at the Southern African Regional High-Level Conference on Advancing Economies of Women in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Africa on Thursday.

The Ministry in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Gates Foundation, is hosting the first Southern African Regional consultation to advance women economic empowerment in the SADC region.

The high-level two-day consultation forum, held in Sandton, Johannesburg, brings together women leaders from the SADC region, including senior government officials, policymakers, and representatives from other African Union (AU) Member States.

The forum, which will conclude on Friday, aims to discuss strategies to achieve women’s economic inclusion, financial access and Economic Justice and Rights (EJR) across the SADC region.

In her address, Chikunga acknowledged that women own fewer productive assets and that their businesses have fewer opportunities to trade. She also said that women experience financial exclusion and have limited access to markets and procurement.

She warned that without concrete measures in place, the continent’s aspiration to ensure that African women in all spheres -- granting them equal social, political, and economic rights, including the right to own and inherit property, sign contracts and manage businesses -- will remain unfulfilled.

“Similarly, rural women’s access to productive assets such as land, credit, inputs and financial services, will remain idle and futile without deliberate action. Without a deliberate skills revolution, the desire to position our youth at the forefront of knowledge and as catalysts of innovation and entrepreneurship, will fall short.

“Only when education and skills are accessible to all, will we be able to cultivate the creativity, energy and innovation of Africa’s youth into a driving force behind the continent’s political, social, cultural and economic transformation,” she explained.

Despite the continent’s noble vision, the Minister argued it will remain a distant reality “until we put in place concrete measures with firm timelines, deliverables and accountability mechanisms to ensure its realisation.”

She emphasised that the success of Agenda 2063 rests squarely on the seriousness of the leaders’ commitment to uplift women and girls, enabling them to pull the entire continent forward.

According to the AU, Agenda 2063 is Africa's development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development over a 50-year period.

Beyond Agenda 2063, the Minister highlighted the region’s support for the consultative forum, which is also inspired by the SADC Vision 2050 and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, which both reflect the region’s developmental aspirations.

She underscored the importance of increasing women’s participation in regional development, enhancing equal access to opportunities, achieving gender parity, strengthening gender mainstreaming at both national and regional levels, and combating gender-based violence (GBV).

Economic participation 

Chikunga emphasised that the economic potential of the region cannot be fully realised when half of its population remains underrepresented in trade, financial systems, digital economies, and entrepreneurship.

She also stressed the importance of ensuring that girls and women have access to quality education, as this is essential for meaningful economic participation to help address barriers. These barriers include early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and other societal norms that hold back the girl child.

‘We must provide young women with the kind of vocational and technical training that is tailored to market demands and empowers women to participate in diverse sectors, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

“We must note that, as things stand, women make up less than a third of the workforce across STEM careers, a number that should alarm all of us.

“The historical and ongoing exclusion of women from STEM is a tragedy we must confront urgently. Tangible programmes are needed to correct societal and cultural beliefs that use gender stereotypes to perpetuate scientific inequality,” she explained.

The Minister further highlighted the need for financial inclusion and access to investment opportunities, including access to land, productive assets, and property rights.

She also called for the provision of smartphones for women in the marketplace, including access to the internet, and digital tools that can enhance their economic participation. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 02/20/2025 - 17:30
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Select Committee Engages With Stakeholders on Marine Oil Pollution Bill

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Select Committee on Public Infrastructure and the Minister in the Presidency heard joint oral submissions from stakeholders on the Marine Oil Pollution (Preparedness, Response and Cooperation) Bill [B10-2022].

The bill aims to incorporate the provisions of the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC) into South African law. As a party to the OPRC Convention, South Africa is required to adopt measures to prepare for and respond to potential oil spills in the country's maritime domain.

Committee Chairperson Mr Rikus Badenhorst said combatting marine oil pollution is not only an environmental concern, it is also an economic, social and legal imperative. The destruction of marine habitats, the violation of environmental rights and the significant threats to livelihoods, particularly those dependent on the ocean economy, demand decisive legislative action.

“As outlined in the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC), to which South Africa is a party, we have a duty to ensure that our legislative framework adequately provides for prevention, response and accountability in cases of marine oil pollution,” said Mr Badenhorst.

The committee was of the view that the presentations and submissions received reaffirmed the urgency of strengthening South Africa's legislative framework for marine oil pollution prevention and response.

Key insights were shared by organisations such as the Biodiversity Law Centre, SANCCOB [Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds], BirdLife South Africa, the Green Connection, and Natural Justice. The stakeholders raised issues around delays in coordination between agencies and government officials during oil spill incidents, which allow the pollution to continue unabated. They also stressed the importance of integrating traditional ecological knowledge and ensuring transparent and accessible compensation mechanisms for affected communities.

Members of the committee picked up on the issue raised by stakeholders about the importance of including traditional healers in the discussions. The committee said traditional healers have a deep connection to the ocean and as custodians of cultural heritage and environmental stewardship cannot be overlooked. Engaging these communities is essential for holistic and effective marine resource management. The bill is currently in the provinces for the public participation process.

The Department of Transport provided a detailed responses to the stakeholder submissions, highlighting existing mechanisms and measures in place to address marine pollution, including the standby tug vessels patrolling the coastline and the country's membership of international treaties, such as the OPRC.

Mr Badenhorst said that as the committee continues its oversight role, members will remain vigilant in monitoring the implementation of the bill once it is enacted. “We are committed to ensuring that the necessary regulations are promulgated without delay and that our collective responsibility to safeguard our marine resources is upheld,” he said.

“The ongoing work to refine this bill must ensure that it is practical, enforceable and adequately resourced to fulfill its objectives effectively. We emphasise the importance of empowering relevant authorities, including the South African Maritime Safety Authority, and engaging coastal communities and small-scale fishers in decision-making and response efforts,” added Mr Badenhorst.

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

Read moreSelect Committee Engages With Stakeholders on Marine Oil Pollution Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During the Budget Speech, the Finance Minister indicates the allocation of financial resources to the national government’s priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address.

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

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

Janine
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 19:26
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Read moreCabinet deliberations will deliver a budget that “works for all”

2025 Budget: Close out period extended to 12 March

Location: News

2025 Budget: Close out period extended to 12 March

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Janine
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 19:39
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Budget postponed for further deliberations

Location: News

Budget postponed for further deliberations

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

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

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

“The annual budget is tabled by the Minister of Finance but it requires the deliberation of the Cabinet before it is tabled in the National Assembly.

“Cabinet considered that although the tabling of the 2025 budget was scheduled for release at 2pm on 19 February 2025, a postponement is needed to allow for further deliberations to take place on the budget. Cabinet is united in the view that the budget must strike a balance between the interests of the public, economic growth and fiscal sustainability,” Godongwana said in a media briefing on Wednesday afternoon. 

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

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

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

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

During the Budget Speech, the Finance Minister indicates the allocation of financial resources to the national government’s priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address.

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

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

 

nosihle
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 16:32
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Budget speech postponed

Location: News

Budget speech postponed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

NeoB
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 14:45
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Citizens outline expectations for Budget 2025

Location: News

Citizens outline expectations for Budget 2025

Reducing red tape for business and tackling the funding gap for higher education are among the items on the wishlist of ordinary South Africans ahead of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s  2025 Budget Speech, this afternoon.

Michael Mokwena, a small business owner in Garankuwa, north of Pretoria, told SAnews he hopes the government will make it easier to small business people to access loans from  banks.

“We small business owners  find it hard to access loans to expand our businesses. The laws and the requirements make it difficult for us to access funds,” Mokwena said.

Speaking ahead of the Budget which the Minister will table at 2pm, Mokwena said government must set aside funds to boost small businesses in the townships.

“Township businesses are playing a big role in the country’s economy and they are playing a role in job creation. We can’t all get employed. Some of us must create job opportunities for others. For that to happen, we need support from government. We need funding so we can play an active role in growing our economy,” Mokwena explained on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Elvis Montoedi from Hamanskraal, told SAnews that government must create more job opportunities for young graduates and importantly, government must prioritise funding for students.

“Government must set aside more money for education. It is sad to see some young people being unable to continue with their studies because of lack of funding. Government must also assist with job placement for those who have completed their studies,” Montoedi who is a final year Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)  student at the University of South Africa (UNISA) said.

Godongwana’s  Budget Speech will provide a detailed plan for 2025 spending, including proposals for revenue collection to help fund the government’s planned interventions and commitments.

READ | All eyes on the Budget: Godongwana to chart SA’s financial future

The Budget Speech, among other things, aims to balance economic growth and support for the vulnerable in our society, despite limited resources.

READ | Minister of Finance to deliver 2025 Budget Speech

This as senior lecturer at UNISA Ndou Eliphas said he expects the Minister will deliver a budget that caters for the poor - to infuse business optimism; to send a message to the public that government is working on raising economic growth and that government wants to eradicate poverty and inequality.

“The Minister of Finance should focus more on raising economic growth, [the] implementations of reforms that support economic growth, explaining how to reduce the debt servicing costs and stabilising debt to GDP ratio,” said Ndou.

Ndou is of the view that the Minister will deliver a budget that will give an optimistic outlook at a time of global economic uncertainty.

For those eager to follow the financial roadmap firsthand, the Budget Speech will be broadcast live on Parliament TV (DStv Channel 408) and streamed across Parliament’s digital platforms. South Africans can tune in to see how the numbers stack up and what lies ahead for the economy in 2025, across various TV channels and Government platforms, including on www.SAnews.gov.za . 

Wednesday’s budget will be the first budget to be tabled under the Government of National Unity (GNU). - SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:53
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Read moreCitizens outline expectations for Budget 2025

All Beneficiaries Will Continue to Receive Social Grants Beyond the Deadline for Moving to Black Cards

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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Having been briefed on the important matter of moving social grant recipients from the South African Social Security Agency's (SASSA's) Gold Cards to Postbank's Black Cards, the Portfolio Committee on Social Development and the Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies welcomed an undertaking that all beneficiaries will continue to receive their grants beyond the new deadline of 20 March 2025.

However, those without Black Cards after the new deadline will only receive their grants at their nearest branches of the South African Post Office, because the Gold Card will be deactivated.

The committees both raised their serious concern about the way in which the project was conceptualised and managed from the start, saying that communication was inadequate. They also expressed displeasure about the inconvenience beneficiaries have suffered due to the long queues and slow services, calling on the Postbank to redouble its efforts to ensure that all beneficiaries are treated with dignity and are helped expeditiously.

The committees advised the Postbank and SASSA to work closely with the Government Communications and Information System to leverage its communication network and specialised competency.

To address the challenge of long queues, the committees called for the introduction of additional service points in the form of mobile offices in rural areas where beneficiaries will be assisted speedily, without relying solely on retail stores often located at big shopping centres and malls.

Lastly, the committees thanked social grant beneficiaries for their patience with the process, which was necessary to ensure the security of the cards used to access social grants.

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

Read moreAll Beneficiaries Will Continue to Receive Social Grants Beyond the Deadline for Moving to Black Cards

Gauteng Legislature bemoans night club incident

Location: News

Gauteng Legislature bemoans night club incident

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, has called on law enforcement agencies to ensure those responsible for the inhumane treatment of patrons at ZanZou nightclub in Pretoria, are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.

The committee strongly condemned the shocking videos circulating on social media, which depict the alleged brutal and barbaric handling of patrons perpetrated at Zanzou nightclub.

Committee Chairperson, Bandile Masuku said the incident is a grave violation of human rights and an abuse of the dignity of the individuals involved.

“The committee is deeply concerned by the inhumane treatment of the patrons, which is completely unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. This incident serves as a painful reminder of our apartheid past, where Black men and women were subjected to torture and dehumanisation at the hands of the racist apartheid security forces.

“We cannot allow such atrocities to be repeated in a free and democratic South Africa. Such actions have no place in a democratic society that is founded on the principles of human dignity, equality, and the rule of law,” Masuku said in a statement on Tuesday.

The committee has called on Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni and all relevant law enforcement agencies, to ensure those responsible are swiftly apprehended and held accountable.
The committee also called for a comprehensive investigation into allegations that there might have been some form of police complicity in concealing and not acting appropriately in dealing with such violations.

The committee further called for the immediate closure of ZanZou nightclub and other establishments known to endanger the safety and rights of their patrons.

“No individual or entity should be allowed to violate the rights of others in such a manner, and those responsible must face the full might of the law. The committee has already written to the Provincial Police Commissioner to request a detailed status report on the investigation into this matter.

“We will continue to monitor developments closely to ensure that justice is served, and that such incidents are prevented in the future,” Masuku said. 

Masuku’s comments come as the SAPS has launched a manhunt for at least eight foreign national suspects in connection with the incident that is making the rounds on social media platforms.

This as video clips of the incident have been circulating on social media.

READ | Police launch manhunt following Pretoria night club incident

Masuku reiterated the committee’s commitment to upholding the principles of community safety, warning that it will take any necessary actions to ensure accountability.

“The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety stands in solidarity with the victims of this incident and urges anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward and report to the relevant authorities. Together, we must work towards a society where the rights and dignity of every individual are respected and protected.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has condemned the incident.

READ | Government strongly condemns acts of dehumanisation

– SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Wed, 02/19/2025 - 11:06
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