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South Africa has one of the highest HIV rates in the world, with 8-million people estimated to be living with the virus. While many people are aware of the link between HIV and Tuberculosis (TB), fewer know about another common co-infection: Human Papillomavirus (HPV). What is HPV? HPV includes a family of more than 200 …
Homes damaged across Msinga and Abaqulusi municipalities
Landlord battles with inconsistent payments from eThekwini Municipality
President signs four proclamations authorising corruption investigations
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed four new proclamations authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of maladministration and corruption at Ithala Development Finance Corporation, the Greater Kokstad Local Municipality, Llepele-Nkumpi Local Municipality and Greater North Transport.
Ithala Development Finance Corporation
Proclamation 243 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of the Ithala Development Finance Corporation situated in KwaZulu-Natal, focusing on tendering for the supply, implementation, and maintenance of an integrated banking solution.
The probe will determine if contract payments adhered to national treasury guidelines were irregular, wasteful, or led to financial losses for the department or state.
The SIU will also investigate any unlawful conduct by Ithala employees or officials that may have resulted in improper benefits.
“Furthermore, the investigation will assess whether fraudulent actions occurred, identify any resultant losses or damages, and examine any irregular or unlawful behaviour by Ithala employees or other entities.
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2017 and 31 January 2025, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2017 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” said the SIU.
Greater Kokstad Local Municipality
Proclamation 244 of 2025 directs the SIU to probe two tenders by the Greater Kokstad Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. These tenders are:
The SIU said the probe will examine whether the procurement and contracting were made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective or in violation of applicable legislation, guidelines, or instructions from the National or Provincial Treasury.
This includes the municipality or the state’s unauthorised, irregular, or wasteful expenditure.
The probe will also look at any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of the municipality, its suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity implicated.
The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2022 and 31 January 2025, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2022 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts.
Llepele-Nkumpi Local Municipality
Proclamation 243 of 2025 mandates the SIU to investigate serious maladministration in the affairs of Llepele-Nkumpi Local Municipality in Limpopo Province regarding procuring and contracting for goods, works or services for six contracts. The contracts under investigation are:
The contract was awarded in or about December 2013 for refurbishing the Lebowakgomo Civic Centre.
Greater North Transport
Proclamation 246 of 2025 authorises the SIU to investigate allegations of corruption in eight contracts and maladministration in six contracts at the Greater North Transport (GNT) in Limpopo Province.
The SIU will investigate the allegations of corruption of board members, officials or employees of the GNT or contractors, suppliers or service providers for the following tenders:
Furthermore, the SIU will also probe allegations of maladministration in the affairs of the GNT and any losses or prejudice suffered by the GNT or the State as a result of such maladministration concerning:
The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to national treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the state.
Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct by the department employees, officials, agents, and any other person or entity to corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others.
The investigation will also at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the department or the state, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the department or any other person or entity.
The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 January 2002 and 31 January 2025, as well as any related activities before 1 January 2002 and after the date of the proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts.
Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU said it was committed to identifying systemic failures and recommending measures to prevent future losses.
In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 02/04/2025 - 10:12
The Portfolio Committee on Health has concluded provincial public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (B33-2022) in Geroge, where it received mixed views on the Bill. The extensive public participation process has demonstrated the value of the involvement of the people in the law-making process.
“The intentions of the drafters of the Constitution were given true meaning through these public hearings, as every individual and organisation was given time to share their views, either in support or against the Bill. The committee is confident that the platform it has provided for the public to share their views is in line with the obligations made by the Constitution,” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, the Chairperson of the committee. To conclude the work initiated by the 6th Parliament, the committee held public hearings in Northern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and one session each in Free State and Western Cape.
In George, the committee received mixed reviews for the Bill, with a majority of participants supporting the intentions and benefits of the Bill. They argued that the public health benefits entailed in the Bill far outweigh the suggested negative consequences advocated by those against the Bill.
Supporters argued that the prevalence of products, such as hookah pipes and vapes, are increasingly enticing young people and exposing them to harm. Furthermore, an argument was made that the purported role electronic delivery systems are said to play in giving up smoking are not backed up by tangible evidence. Supporters argued that these products instead encourage the youth to move on to harder and more harmful products.
Also, many said that the possible ill health caused by the consumption of tobacco products is their reason for supporting the Bill. The high cost incurred by the Department of Health to treat ailments arising from smoking tobacco, such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, is unsustainable, supporters of the Bill said, especially considering South Africa's other pressing priorities in a climate of reduced financial resources. As at the hearings in Trompsburg, young people argued that the passing of the Bill will set a clear message about protecting the future of the generations to follow.
Some participants argued that the regulatory mechanism provided by the Bill, such as the banning of advertising at the point of sale, plain packaging and graphic pictorials depicting the dangers of smoking, will reduce the numbers of those taking up smoking in the first place, giving young people a healthier start in life.
While the majority of participants supported the Bill, some people made a strong objection to the feared economic impact of the Bill and the potential threat of adding to the already high unemployment rate in the country.
Small-scale traders had concerns that the prohibition on the sale of single stick cigarettes will have a devastating impact to their livelihoods. They also argued that the ban on advertising at the point of sale will render their businesses inoperable, as they attract customers through the visible display of tobacco products.
Meanwhile, business owners within the vaping industry argued that the current Bill does little to address regulatory loopholes within the sector. They argued that vapes should be regulated under different legislative prescripts, as they are different from the tobacco products currently contained in the Bill.
There was a strong emphasis of the potential risk of the Bill, with many concerns that it will result in an increase in the market share of illicit cigarettes. Some participants argued that the current focus should be on irradicating the illicit market that has taken hold of the sector, especially after the Covid restrictions.
The committee will now schedule oral hearings in Cape Town for those individuals and organisations who previously indicated their desire to make presentations before the committee.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Unemployed health graduates march in Pretoria, demanding urgent action from Treasury
SAPS nabs over 200 000 in festive season operations
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made 244 951 arrests during the festive season, as part of heightened crime-fighting operations aimed at safeguarding communities, holidaymakers, and tourists across the country.
The safer festive season operations commenced on 11 October 2024, and ended on Friday, 31 January 2025.
“From the period 01 October 2024 to 31 December 2024 – a total of 9 908 accused were found guilty and convicted for various crimes, including murder, rape, armed robberies, house breaking and car hijacking,” National Commissioner for the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola, said on Sunday.
Masemola held a media briefing to provide an update on the SAPS Nationwide Safer Festive Season Operations.
Masemola announced that a total of 2 198 illegal, and unlicensed firearms were seized and confiscated during operations. These include 1 731 handguns, 154 homemade guns, 211 rifles, and 102 shotguns.
Masemola said the majority of firearms seized were confiscated in Kwazulu-Natal, Gauteng, Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.
“Firearms remain a big problem in South Africa as most serious and violent crimes including murders were committed with the use of a firearm,” the National Commissioner said.
In this regard, 37 658 rounds of ammunition were also seized and 1 767 explosives that are mainly used in illegal mining activities and cash in transit armed robberies were also seized.
In addition, the police recovered R4 million in cash and seized 16 293 stolen cell phones, which were either taken during crimes or used in their commission, for further investigation and analysis.
Furthermore, a total of 960 stolen and hijacked vehicles were recovered.
During this period, more than two million patrols were conducted, with more than 4 600 roadblocks, 620 000 stop and searches, and more than two million persons were searched in the country.
“Further to that, over 78 000 licensed liquor premises compliance inspections were executed together with more than 12 000 compliance inspections at firearm dealers and private security premises. A total of 6 547 unlicensed liquor premises were shut down throughout the country during this period.
“Through our safer festive season operational concept, which is inclusive of Operation Shanela, we intensified our prevention and combatting strategies on nine focus areas with serious and violent crimes at the centre of attention.
“From combatting and putting perpetrators of Gender-Based-Violence-and Femicide (GBVF), Aggravated robberies, murders, rape and car hijacking in prison– we have been hard at work in asserting and reaffirming the authority of the state,” Masemola said.
The National Commissioner said the intelligence operatives, detectives, including visible policing members and forensic experts worked tirelessly in tracking, tracing and taking down wanted criminals.
“Through intelligence and collaboration with various units within the SAPS, identified crime threats were addressed through conventional methods to identify, neutralise, dislodge, dismantle and takedown organised crime syndicates.
“Crime intelligence continuously monitored various organised crime threats which include theft of motor vehicles, kidnappings for extortion, cash in transit armed robberies, critical infrastructure, illegal mining and stock theft – to mention but a few of other key crime categories,” the National Commissioner said.
Gender-based Violence and Femicide
Between October 2024 and December 2024, a total of 685 Gender-Based Violence and Femicide perpetrators, were convicted to time in prison.
Of these, 110 GBVF perpetrators were sentenced to life in prison, 71 GBVF perpetrators were sentenced to 20 years and above in prison, 174 GBVF perpetrators were sentenced to 10 years and up to 19 years in prison, while 330 GBVF perpetrators were sentenced to a year and up to nine years in prison.
“Our men and women in blue remain relentless in tracking, tracing, apprehending and prosecuting GBVF perpetrators,” Masemola said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 02/02/2025 - 12:02
Hawks make significant progress in combatting serious crime
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) has made significant strides in tackling high-profile criminal cases, resulting in the arrest of over 1 400 suspects, who have since appeared in various courts across the country.
This achievement was highlighted during a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, where the DPCI (the Hawks) National Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, gave an update on the progress made in the third quarter of the 2024/25 financial year.
In the reporting period, a total of 1 452 suspects had been secured before various courts in the country, including 1 409 individuals and 43 corporate entities. Of these arrests, 451 were South Africans, while 958 were foreign nationals.
“These arrests targeted people involved in serious corruption, serious organised crime, serious commercial crime, including fraud, theft, money laundering, cybercrime, police killings, cash-in-transit robberies, other armed robberies, kidnapping for ransom, State capture, illegal mining, counterfeit goods, tax-related offences, COVID-19-related offences, drug trafficking and trafficking in persons,” Lebeya said.
He said out of the 1 452 suspects, 1 172 were secured by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI), while the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) secured 234, and the Serious Corruption Investigation (SCI) secured 46 suspects.
Lebeya shared the geographical distribution of arrests, which showed the highest number of the arrests were made in the North West, where 919 suspects were apprehended, followed by Gauteng with 116 arrests, KwaZulu-Natal with 106, Mpumalanga with 67, and the Western Cape with 57 suspects arrested.
Lebeya noted that the North West figures include 854 illegal mining cases that were allocated from Operation Vala Umgodi at Stilfontein, which added to 21 arrests from organised crime projects, known as Tarantula and Grumpyface operations.
“During these arrests, 86 firearms and 3 617 rounds of ammunition were seized. Three clandestine drug laboratories, involving R37 713 500, were dismantled with four arrests,” Lebeya said.
The DPCI had secured 202 convictions during the same period, including 186 individuals and 16 corporate entities. Furthermore, 222 individuals (204 South Africans and 18 corporate entities), including those who were convicted before this quarter but not sentenced, were also sentenced.
Of the 204 convicts, 153 were South Africans, while 51 were foreign nationals.
“Most of these convictions and sentences were secured in the Gauteng province. Of these 222 sentenced convicts, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation secured 106, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation secured 86 and Serious Corruption Investigation secured 30.
"Let me hasten to say that the Directorate has secured 32 life imprisonment sentences during this quarter,” Lebeya said.
Freezing and forfeiture orders issued
To ensure that crime does not pay, the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation (PCSI) has contributed towards the issuing of a combined 96 freezing and forfeiture orders, amounting to R55 210 753-43.
In addition, Lebeya said an amount of R2 022 773-09 has been deposited into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account (CARA).
Digital forensics and ongoing investigations
Lebeya announced that the DPCI’s Digital Forensic Investigation Section has finalised the extraction and analysis of data evidence from 315 electronic devices.
The Priority Crime Management Centre (PCMC) has also received a total of 362 reports from telephone service providers for analysis in support of investigations.
Lebeya said at the beginning of the third quarter, the Directorate was handling 18 264 dockets with a monetary value of R1 026 817 012 597-38.
Of these, 5 616 dockets worth R111 332 466 767-03 and involving 12 607 accused, were still pending in the courts, with 1 836 under investigation, awaiting decisions from the National Prosecuting Authority on whether to prosecute or otherwise.
The Lieutenant General highlighted that the total success achieved by the DPCI on arrests, convictions and attachment of assets stood at 1 770. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 15:25
Conserving crop diversity key to food security
Millions of farmers across Africa play a crucial role in preserving crop diversity by cultivating traditional crop varieties, saving seeds for the next planting season, and exchanging seeds with neighbours and other farmers.
This practice is essential for safeguarding crop production and ensuring food security, as the population continues to grow.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen in a statement said farmers have long been the stewards of crop diversity, helping to secure food production and improve crop yields.
"Farmers have not always been formally recognised for their role in conserving plant genetic resources, but the adoption of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture has changed that," Steenhuisen said on Thursday.
The treaty acknowledges the vital contribution of farmers and indigenous communities in the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources, which is key to food security and agricultural biodiversity.
In a significant step for the country’s agricultural and food security landscape, the Department of Agriculture has confirmed that South Africa has ratified the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, making it the 154th Contracting Party to the agreement.
READ | SA signs international treaty to boost food security, biodiversity
This treaty aims to ensure global collaboration in conserving and sustainably using plant genetic resources.
Steenhuisen emphasised that by joining the treaty, South Africa must align its national policies and programmes to recognise farmers’ contributions to the conservation of traditional crops, especially those that are often neglected or underutilised.
Crops such as millets, cowpeas, sorghum and bambara groundnuts play an important role in local food systems but often lack the attention they deserve.
“We must ensure that indigenous farmers are involved in decision-making processes related to plant conservation, the sustainable use of genetic resources, and in the sharing of benefits derived from these crops. Farmers must also be empowered to save, exchange and sell farm-saved seed,” Steenhuisen said.
Supporting community seed banks
To further enhance the conservation of crop diversity, the Minister said the Department of Agriculture is working in partnership with farmers, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and provincial agriculture departments, to support and strengthen community seed banks.
These hubs for the conservation and revitalisation of local seed systems focus on crops suited to local conditions.
“Currently, community seed banks are operational in Limpopo, the Eastern Cape and the North West provinces. In the 2025/26 financial year, two new community seed banks will be established in KwaZulu-Natal and the Northern Cape provinces.
“These seed banks are central to preserving traditional crops, encouraging participatory plant breeding, and facilitating seed exchanges among farmers and communities through traditional food and seed fairs,” Steenhuisen said.
Crop diversity
Conserving crop diversity is integral to building sustainable food systems and advancing food and nutrition security.
According to the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey (NFNSS), approximately 20 million South Africans face food insecurity, a situation exacerbated by high poverty levels, unemployment, and income inequality.
The report also highlights the adverse impacts of climate change on crop yields, particularly in smallholder and subsistence farming communities.
The Minister said the NFNSS provides valuable insights to guide South Africa’s National Food and Nutrition Security Plan (2024-2029), “a key priority for government”.
Global collaboration and benefits
South Africa’s participation in the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture's multilateral system facilitates access to a global pool of genetic resources, benefiting the country’s farmers and researchers.
“This system supports the training, breeding and research needed to strengthen food security and improve crop resilience. Additionally, the treaty’s Benefit-Sharing Fund offers financial support for crop diversity conservation and capacity-building initiatives worldwide,” Steenhuisen said.
The Minister said the successful implementation of the treaty in South Africa will require strong government support at all levels and collaboration across the public, private and civil sectors.
He called for continued cooperation to ensure that South Africa’s farmers and communities benefit from the country’s participation in the treaty. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 10:47
Teachers and principals tell GroundUp how their schools are coping
SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is rolling up its sleeves in preparation to launch three separate investigations into the Department of Defence, the KwaDukuza Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, and the provincial Mpumalanga Department of Education.
The three investigations were given the green light by President Cyril Ramaphosa after he signed proclamations authorising the tender corruption related probes.
Department of Defence
The Department of Defence is under the SIU’s investigative microscope for allegations of “serious maladministration” related to two tenders.
These tenders relate to inventory verification, continuous asset verification, and the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of an asset management system.
“The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to national treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the state,” the SIU said.
The probe will also hone in on department employees to “establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct” by the employees, officials or agents and any other person or entity to “corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others”.
“The investigation will also look at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the Department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the Department or any other person or entity,” the corruption busting unit said.
Mpumalanga Department of Education
The SIU has set its sights on probing six contracts related to the “procurement and contracting for the supply of foodstuff for six schools in the province.
Investigations will assess whether the department followed National Treasury guidelines and if any irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses were incurred.
“Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct by the department employees, officials, agents, and any other person or entity to corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others.
“The investigation will also at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the department or any other person or entity,” the SIU said.
KwaDukuza Municipality
The probe into the KwaZulu-Natal-based municipality will investigate three infrastructure tenders issued by the municipality.
According to the proclamation, the tenders under investigation are:
“The SIU probe will examine whether the procurement and contracting were made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective or in violation of applicable legislation, guidelines, or instructions from the National or Provincial Treasury. This includes the municipality or the State’s unauthorised, irregular or wasteful expenditure.
“The probe will also look at any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of the municipality, its suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity implicated,” the SIU said.
Holding wrongdoers to account
The SIU assured that any evidence of alleged criminal acts will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
“Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:16
Hawks nab suspects for breaking immigration and RICA laws
Twenty-four foreign nationals have been arrested by Hawks members from the Newcastle Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit.
The suspects are Malawian nationals, aged between 18 and 28, and two Chinese nationals.
The arrests were effected in collaboration with the Newcastle Local Criminal Record Centre, the Illicit Mining Unit, DFI KZN and the Immigration Office on Monday.
The joint operation followed a tip-off about potential human trafficking activity at the Northern Truck Stop in Newcastle on 14 January 2025.
The investigating team obtained a search warrant from the Newcastle Magistrate Court and initiated the operation on Monday.
During the search, the law enforcement agencies uncovered 22 Malawian and two Chinese suspects on the premises.
It was established that the suspects were manufacturing SIM cards in violation of the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication–Related Information Act (RICA).
A total of 24 suspects, including the two Chinese nationals, Zhang Shengatao and Liu Gou, were apprehended for contravening the Immigration Act.
On Wednesday, Zhang and Liu appeared before the Newcastle Magistrate Court for violation of the RICA Act. The case was postponed to 6 February 2025 for formal bail application.
The KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General Dr Lesetja Senona commended the Hawks members for the arrests. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 12:04
Suspect linked to 2021 unrest appears in court
A 42-year-old suspect is expected to appear at the Durban Magistrate Court today on charges linked to the unrest of July 2021.
The suspect handed herself over at the Durban Central police station this morning, and was arrested and processed.
She faces charges under the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act (POCDATARA), and incitement to commit violence.
The arrest is as a result of a thorough investigation by the Durban Crimes against the State Unit of the Serious Organised Crime Investigation, following the unrest of July 2021, which affected KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
To date, 69 arrests and one conviction have been secured.
READ | SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
During the unrest, around 350 people lost their lives. The violence and destruction also caused damage to infrastructure and businesses, costing South Africa’s economy some R50 billion, with a further two million jobs being lost or affected.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) report into the unrest, which was released in January 2024, found that a myriad factors contributed to the outbreak of destruction and violence during the riots.
According to the SAHRC, evidence indicated that the acts of destruction during the unrest were well-orchestrated, including the blocking of the N3 highway, destruction of factories and warehouses, attack on government communication facilities, and bombing and theft of ATMs.
READ | DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences
“It is clear by now that the DPCI [Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation] shall continue to secure in court the attendance of anyone against whom sufficient evidence of committing a national priority offence is obtained, without fear, favour or prejudice,” the National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General Adv. Godfrey Lebeya said on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:47
Health Minister encourages adherence to ARV treatment
Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has appealed to people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to continue taking their medication amid reports that grant funding by the United States of America (USA) is under review.
The review of the grant funding is expected to affect the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) programme, which is aimed at supporting HIV prevention, care and treatment. The programme supports several countries, including South Africa, to achieve HIV epidemic control.
Addressing members of the media on the sidelines of a two-day Cabinet Lekgotla, Motsoaledi said the country’s ARVs proramme will not be affected, as it is funded by the South African government and the Global Fund.
“For now, all HIV/AIDS programmes continue. As the South African government, we want to ascertain that nobody must stop taking ARVs because that will be devastating,” Motsoaledi said on Wednesday.
South Africa has 52 districts and of those, 27 districts are funded by PEPFAR.
“PEPFAR chose 27 of the most affected districts and these districts are in eight provinces, as they choose districts based on the burden of HIV/AIDS. The only province that is not included is the Northern Cape because it does not have any districts that are highly affected by HIV/AIDS,” the Minister said.
Of the 27 districts, seven of them are in KwaZulu-Natal; five are in the Eastern Cape, four are in Gauteng; three are in Mpumalanga and the North West, respectively; two are in Limpopo and one is in the Western Cape.
“The total number of people on the ground who are dealing with HIV/AIDS in those 27 districts is 271 606. Of the 271 606 people, 256 452 are funded by South Africa from the fiscus. That leaves us with 15 145 people, who will be affected by the withdrawal.
“Our biggest problems will be the salaries and the operational costs. That is what we are looking at with National Treasury,” Motsoaledi said.
Seventy-six percent of the funding for HIV/AIDS programmes is from South Africa. This constitutes 74% of funding from the government and 2% from the private sector.
“That leaves us with a gap that is filled by the Global Fund, which gives 7% and PEPFAR, which accounts for 17%. When you add the funds from the Global Fund and South Africa’s funding, that makes 83% and PEPFAR remains with the 17%. We are buying ARVs, together with the Global Fund,” the Minister said.
With reports indicating changes in the grant funding by the US, Motsoaledi said the government of South Africa has not received any communication on these changes.
“So far, we have not received a letter from the American government. These funds for the HIV/AIDS programmes come through National Treasury and they have not received a letter; the Department of Health and Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) have also not received a letter.
“We have tried to contact the US embassy and we couldn’t get them. The NGOs and the clinics that are funded by PEPFAR are the ones who have received letters,” the Minister said.
Out of the 63 million people in South Africa, 7.8 million people are HIV positive, with 5.5 million on ARVs.
In 2014, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) adopted the strategy of 95-95-95, which sets a target that 95% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) must know their HIV status; 95% of people diagnosed with HIV must receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 95% of people receiving ART must achieve viral load suppression (VLS).
“We are on 96%. That means 96% of people who have HIV in South Africa know their status but of those, 79% are on treatment and in that 79% who are on ARVs, 94% of them are virally suppressed. It means that they can no longer spread the virus, reducing the number of new infections.
“For us to reach the 95-95-95 targets by 2030 - because we want to eliminate HIV as a threat to human health - we need 1.1million people to be on treatment so we reach the target,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 07:00
Provincial supply chain management director Musa Zondi was fired earlier this month
Silonjane villagers say they’ve been sidelined
Build KZN better
KwaZulu-Natal's development aspirations are taking centre stage at Africa's Biggest Property Management Conference, which is underway at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
The two-day conference, which concludes today, brings firmly into focus the importance of creating resilient and sustainable infrastructure that aligns with the province’s development goals, says KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli.
Hundreds of property industry experts and stakeholders, including property developers, investors, government representatives and infrastructure specialists - all united in their commitment to advancing KwaZulu-Natal’s real estate sector and boosting economic growth - have converged at the Durban Chief Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
The gathering -- launched by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, in partnership with the National and Provincial Departments of Public Works and Infrastructure, and eThekwini Municipality -- is being held under the theme: 'Build KZN Better'.
The conference aims to foster collaboration, share cutting-edge insights, and explore innovative solutions in property management.
Ntuli said the provincial government aims to build KwaZulu-Natal back stronger than ever before.
“By mobilising experts and stakeholders in the property sector, we can collectively revitalise our urban and rural landscapes, stimulate investment, and generate opportunities for all,” Ntuli said.
Delegates have used the conference to discuss best practices in land use, construction, and property management, while addressing challenges including climate resilience, affordable housing, and inclusive development.
The conference is expected to come up with actionable strategies and partnerships designed to drive long-term growth throughout KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
As part of plans to turn eThekwini around, the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) has been working hard to rebuild the city, as well as reposition it as an investment and tourism attraction.
Since its establishment in April 2024, the PeWG has recorded significant developments in service delivery, business confidence, addressing infrastructure and socio-economic challenges.
According to the PeWG's progress report, business confidence in the city increased from 38.42% in the first quarter of 2024 to 63.01% in the third quarter of the same year.
To respond to the challenges of the municipality, President Cyril Ramaphosa established the eThekwini Presidential Working Group in April 2024. The PeWG was established to accelerate support from national and provincial government to rebuild the municipality following a number of challenges confronting the metro. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/29/2025 - 15:14
The Bridge City Housing development was approved in 2019 but due to delays and financial problems the project remains largely incomplete
Mchunu honours men and women in blue
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has thanked police officers for the sacrifices they make to safeguard the country.
The country on Monday marked National Police Day.
"You leave your families to serve the greater family that is our beloved country. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. On behalf of the government of the Republic of South Africa and the people you so diligently protect, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you.
"The parade today is a symbol of the discipline, strength, and capabilities of the SAPS [South African Police Service]. It is a reminder to the people of South Africa that their police service is committed to excellence," the Minister said when delivering his keynote address at the National Police Day celebrations at Kings Park Athletics Stadium in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Monday.
The day brought together men and women in blue to recognise and celebrate the critical role played by law enforcement in upholding justice and maintaining public order.
Approved in 2005 by Cabinet, National Police Day also serves as a platform to strengthen the bond between police officers and the communities they serve.
READ | Salute to police officers!
National Commissioner of the Police, General Fannie Masemola, also paid tribute to police officers.
"When we reflect, as the SAPS management, we see a trail of momentous sacrifices made. We see you deprive yourselves of sleep, family time and social life patrolling the streets of South Africa day and night.
“We see you maintaining public order, we see you protecting the residents of South Africa and their property, and we see you putting an effort to prevent, combat and investigate crime in service of our country," said General Masemola.
This year's National Police Day programme included a ceremonial parade, displays and exhibitions to showcase the capabilities and expertise within the SAPS.
National Police Day underscores SAPS's commitment to professionalising the service, promoting accountability, and ensuring a safer South Africa for all.
The event was preceded by a series of activities, which included the National Golf Day, where more than R11 million was raised on Friday towards the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET).
Also, the SAPS hosted its 10th edition National Excellence Awards on Sunday, where police officers and support personnel were awarded for going above and beyond the call of duty in the last year.
SAPS also extended its gratitude to all police officers for their unwavering dedication and to the community for its continued support. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 01/28/2025 - 09:35
50 bursaries for deserving students
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will provide 50 bursaries for deserving students who have been accepted into public institutions of higher learning, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
These bursaries will be offered through the National Skills Fund, which collaborates with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The National Skills Fund supports this initiative through the department and aims to bridge the gap in access to education, particularly for the top students we are celebrating today,” Deputy President Mashatile explained.
The country’s second-in-command announced this during his keynote address at the KwaMpumuza 4th Annual Matric Excellence Awards ceremony at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
The awards ceremony celebrates the academic achievements of the top Matric Class of 2024 from 16 schools within the Mpumuza Traditional Authority.
The Blackburn Sports Ground in Sweetwaters was filled with the Matric Class of 2025, along with 329 primary school learners who received uniforms.
The event honoured high-achieving schools, teachers, and students from 11 schools in the KwaMpumuza area.
“Having a matric certificate means that you have gone through many obstacles since primary school and have worked hard to make the most of your future. You are a great source of pride for your families, schools, and the entire Mpumuza community,” he told those who have passed Grade 12.
He also thanked the educators and parents for their support.
“Your determination and sacrifice are not taken for granted, may you one day, through these children, enjoy the fruits of your labour.
“To those of you who are going to university, remember that you are now in charge of your own life,” he added.
He encouraged those heading to university to do their best to secure a brighter and more prosperous future.
“A university degree or qualification is a treasure that no one can take away from you, and it is a key to many closed doors.
“I encourage you today to dream big dreams. Do not be discouraged by your background, and the challenges that you have gone through. You deserve the best that life has to offer and as a government, we are determined to support you to make your dreams possible.”
Focusing on the current matriculants, he encouraged them to study diligently and resist distractions like peer pressure.
“I urge all of you to stay away from alcohol, drugs, and other harmful behaviours including violence of any form, early entry into sexual behaviours leading to teenage pregnancy, and STDs [sexually transmitted diseases].”
He also took the time to speak to the parents of children who failed and reminded them that every setback is a setup for a stronger comeback.
“Your love and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them find their way forward.
“Whether they pass or not, every learner is part of our shared future, and they all deserve our love, guidance, and unwavering belief in their potential.”
He concluded his speech by referencing former State President Nelson Mandela, who famously stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world“. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 14:57
KwaZulu-Natal Legislature praises Umkhanyakude District on matric results
Members of the KwaZulu-Natal legislature have praised the Umkhanyakude District for its remarkable turnaround - rising from the worst-performing education district to one of South Africa’s top performing regions in the matric exams.
The Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) urged the district to share best practice on achieving excellent matric results with other districts.
Speaking during the first visit to Umkhanyakude since the district was announced as the top-performing district, the members described the region’s meteoric rise as a remarkable achievement that should be emulated.
UMkhanyakude achieved an overall matric pass rate of 92.8%.
“Not so long ago, this district was number 75 out of 75 districts in the country. Today it is number three in the entire country, and it is also number one in the province. This shows that the district has a well-oiled strategy which is producing handsome dividends,” MPL Celiwe Madlopha said.
She said the legislature had contributed immensely to KwaZulu-Natal’s stellar education performance by providing effective oversight and identifying barriers to effective learning and teaching.
“Members of the legislature are visiting four schools in Umkhanyakude District today and tomorrow as part of the legislature’s School Functionality Monitoring Programme (SFMP). We are, among other things, monitoring infrastructure challenges that our schools face, the delivery of learner support material, the start of lessons, safety and security.
“The SFMP is our flagship programme that has helped to resolve many challenges in our schools. We appreciate the support we continue to receive from the provincial Executive and the schools governing bodies as we play our oversight role,” Madlopha said.
A comprehensive report will be compiled after the school visits and will be presented in the House for adoption and implementation. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 10:28
SAPS to host a series of activities in the build up to National Police Day
The South African Police Service (SAPS) will from Friday host a series of activities and events in the build up to National Police Day, which is scheduled to take place next week Monday.
In 2005, Cabinet approved 27 January as National Police Day. On National Police Day, SAPS remembers the sacrifices that the country’s men and women in blue have made and continue to make as they provide safety for all who live in South Africa.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and the Deputy Ministers of Police, Cassel Mathale and Polly Boshielo will, together with the National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, lead a delegation of senior leadership and members of the service in celebration of the build-up activities that will take place as follows:
SAPS National Golf Day
The SAPS National Golf Day is an event meant to raise funds towards the SAPS Education Trust Fund (SAPSET).
SAPSET is responsible for the educational needs of those children whose fathers and mothers died in the line of duty.
To date, more than 1 000 children have been assisted, with 18 recently obtaining a matric pass with a combined 17 distinctions.
Date: Friday, 24 January 2025
Time: 10:00
Venue: Mount Edgecombe Country Club, KwaZulu-Natal.
National Excellence Awards
The National Excellence Awards is an event aimed at recognising and rewarding outstanding performance, exceptional devotion to community relations and extraordinary courage within the South African Police Service.
The awards ceremony boasts more than 30 categories, including the National Commissioner’s Awards and the Ministry Awards.
Date: Sunday, 26 January 2025
Time: 18:00
Venue: Durban International Conference Centre (ICC).
National Police Day
Cabinet has set aside this day to allow SAPS management to reflect and take stock on progress made in the previous year to prevent, combat and investigate crime.
On this day, management also appreciates serving members, as well as pays homage to those members who died in the line of duty.
Date: Monday, 27 January 2025
Time: 08:00
Venue: Kings Park Athletics Stadium, Durban – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 11:31
Government, private sector partner to empower learners in rural KZN
Learners in uMkhanyakude, in the uMtubatuba region of northern KwaZulu-Natal, received a boost at the start of the school year when the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, led a back-to-school campaign.
In partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and the Izimpande Foundation, the Deputy Minister on Tuesday delivered 132 new school shoes to Bathathe and Mfekayi primary schools.
Both schools are no-fee institutions that provide accessible, quality education to their communities.
These schools are pivotal in uplifting the Mtubatuba region by fostering educational growth and opportunities for young learners.
Gina reaffirmed her belief that every learner deserves the necessary resources to thrive academically.
The Deputy Minister also extended her efforts to KwaNxusa High School in the uMthonjaneni Municipality and Qantayi High School in the uMhlathuze Municipality, where she donated essential stationery earlier this month.
Inspired by her initiative, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa and the Izimpande Foundation partnered with the Deputy Minister to expand the campaign and provide much-needed school shoes.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education District Director, Thanduyise Motha, emphasised that providing children with adequate resources from the foundation phase sets a strong base for their academic success.
He said uMkhanyakude has risen to become KwaZulu-Natal’s top-performing district for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Class of 2024, securing the third spot nationally.
Motha said when he was first appointed to the position, the district was ranked 75th countrywide, highlighting the incredible progress made in improving educational outcomes in the region.
Referring to the donation of school shoes, Motha said the gesture helps to contribute to the excellent pass rate in the district, which motivates learners to study further and harder.
He believes that this also motivates teachers to commit more to the success of the learners.
“This shows that government delivers on its promises at the basic education level, and I thank the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation for gracing us with this much-needed support,” Motha said.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister expressed her gratitude to the private sector for its role in the initiative.
“I thank the private sector for partnering with government in this initiative to positively impact our children, planting a seed from which the learners will reap benefits for their future,” she said.
During her interaction with the learners, Gina was inspired by their ambitions, as some learners expressed aspirations of becoming doctors, while another learner shared his dream of pursuing a career as a social worker.
The Deputy Minister encouraged all learners to stay committed to their studies and thanked parents for their essential role in supporting their children’s education.
Izimpande Foundation’s Sihle Ngobese highlighted the importance of supporting male learners in society, an initiative that led to the formation of the non-profit organisation in 2019, and the donation of school resources to various schools around the country.
“The idea of donating school resources is more than anything personal, where I was even assisted by someone I did not even know (sic). This planted a seed in me that I will also help others, just as I was helped.”
The principals of both schools expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generous donation.
They both expressed hopes for continued support to further improve their school infrastructure and educational resources for the betterment of their learners.
The back-to-school campaign underscored the transformative power of partnerships in addressing challenges faced by underprivileged learners and ensuring they have the tools and support needed to excel in their education. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 09:17
Celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic SA
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) work under the most daunting working environments as the country struggles with high rates of violent crime, including homicide and sexual assault.
When police officers leave their families every day to perform their duties, the brave men and women in blue are putting their lives on the line and risk returning home in a coffin.
Through the commemoration of National Police Day, which takes place annually on 27 January, government recognises the hard work and sacrifices that the country’s police officers make and continue to make to provide a safe South Africa for all.
Speaking to SAnews, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla MKhwanazi, said this year’s celebrations coincides with 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa.
“We know that in 1995 there was an amalgamation of different policing agencies that we had in the country that established the SAPS…[now] we are all one in policing in the country as mandated by the Constitution of the Republic,” MKhwanazi said.
When South Africa attained independence in 1994, the new democratic order brought about many changes and had a substantial impact on policing.
Last year, South Africa celebrated the 30th anniversary of the country’s democratic dispensation and commemorated the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.
This historic milestone coincided with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
“We are going to be celebrating 30 years of policing in a democratic South Africa. We will be displaying all our capabilities as the SAPS. The National Police Day is one of the activities on the SAPS calendar that has been gazetted by government and authorised for us to have a celebration.
“This year’s event will be celebrated in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically in eThekwini. We want to give confidence that Durban remains a place of interest for hosting big events,” the provincial police commissioner said.
Since its establishment in April 2024, the Presidential eThekwini Working Group (PeWG) has been working hard to address critical service delivery, infrastructure, and socio-economic challenges within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality with the goal of positioning the city as an investment and tourism hub.
The Working Group operates across three spheres of government and includes representatives from the private sector and labour.
Call for donations for the SAPS education trust fund
Prior to National Police Day, the SAPS will host a fundraising event, which will be in the form of a golf day on 25 January 2025.
The SAPS has established the South African Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET) to raise funds for the provisioning of financial or any other form of assistance to a child or children of members in the service that died in the execution of official duties or on duty, by financing the costs of such child’s or children’s educational needs.
“This allows us to assist these children to go through school until the obtain their first tertiary qualification to make life better for them because those men and women would have died saving society and therefore their children should not be forgotten.
“Of course, government will pay their insurance, but on top of that, we felt that it is important that we find a way of augmenting the resources they have in order to be able to go to school without any struggles.
“We are doing the fundraising and we rely heavily on business to come on board and help us finance the educational trust fund,” Mkhwanazi said.
Last year, the provincial fundraising event in KwaZulu Natal managed to raise about R1.2 million.
“This is the national event so we expect businesses from all over the country to contribute and donate to this fund. We are hoping that if KZN can pull more than R1 million alone, with nine provinces that will raise more funds to assist the children of the departed members.
“These are members that we normally celebrate every September in Pretoria at the Union Buildings, that would have died in the line of duty,” he said.
National Police Commemoration Day takes place on the first Sunday in September in memory of police officers who died in the line of duty in the last twelve months.
The education trust is comprised of members that are independent of the SAPS and meets all the legal requirements for donations.
“On the 26 January 2025, we are going to have the Excellence Awards where we recognise outstanding dedication, service, and excellence across various categories within the SAPS.
“We are going to be recognising those who have gone beyond the call of duty, including the committee members that have played the role in helping us fight crime in their role as the Community Policing Forums (CPF)
“If a police officer is off duty and places themselves in a position to prevent crime or becomes a rescuer of people that are trapped in dams or pit toilets, and you sacrifice yourself by taking them out, that is beyond your duties. It is such individuals that we want to recognize,” Mkhwanazi said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 12:48