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Seven to appear in court 

Location: News

Seven to appear in court 

Seven suspects are expected to appear in court soon after they were nabbed following police operations in Limpopo.

“Vala Umgodi Operations conducted in the Sekhukhune District in Limpopo led to the arrest of seven suspects for illegal mining of sand and possession of suspected precious minerals (raw Chrome), on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at [the] Nebo and Burgersfort Policing areas,” the South African Police Service (SAPS).

In its statement on Tuesday, the SAPS said a 36-year-old man was arrested for the possession of suspected stolen precious minerals (raw chrome) at Spitzkop Farm in the Burgesfort policing area.

“The suspect was found loading chrome in a yellow dumbbell truck. Another suspect aged 18 was arrested for contravention of immigration act in the area,” said the police.

Additionally, five suspects aged between 28 and 51, were nabbed for illegal mining of sand on Sunday, 06 April 2025, at Ga-Marishane Village in the Nebo policing area. 

Members of Vala Umgodi Operation conducted a disruptive operation at the area when a group of people were noticed loading sand into a white leyman truck. Police confiscated three shovels and the truck that was loaded with sand.

“The suspects will appear before the local magistrate’s court soon. Police investigations are ongoing,” said the SAPS.  -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 04/09/2025 - 09:20
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Eastern Cape welcomes Presidential visit to Gqeberha

Location: News

Eastern Cape welcomes Presidential visit to Gqeberha

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s official visit to the province, to assess progress on service delivery, challenges and opportunities for inclusive economic growth.  

The Presidential Oversight Visit, set to take place in Gqeberha from 15 to 16 April 2025, will be attended by leaders from all three spheres of government, and provides an opportunity for government to interact with residents.

Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane and his Executive Council are looking forward to engaging with President Ramaphosa and Members of the National Executive on key provincial priorities.

In a statement, the provincial government said the visit underscores the President’s commitment to engaging directly with provinces, strengthening collaboration, and driving South Africa’s broader development agenda.

“The provincial government is particularly encouraged by the visit’s focus on fostering synergy, sharing best practices, and enhancing service delivery to accelerate economic growth,” the statement read.

The two-day visit will include an oversight visit at Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ), followed by a Joint Cabinet meeting, which will be extended to Executive Mayors of the Eastern Cape District and Metro Municipalities.

This platform will allow for a comprehensive review of progress made, as well as a candid discussion on both the challenges and opportunities in advancing inclusive economic growth and efficient service delivery for the people of the Eastern Cape.

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government said it remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investment, job creation, and improved public services.

“We are confident that this visit will strengthen the partnership between the Eastern Cape and National Government. Working closely with the President and his administration, we aim to accelerate development, address critical needs, and unlock the full potential of our province,” Premier Mabuyane said.

This visit will be the fifth engagement between the national executive and provincial governments following recent interactions between the President and the provincial governments of Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Gauteng. - SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Mon, 04/07/2025 - 11:32
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Top African Projects Driving the Mining-Energy Nexus

Location: News

Energy Capital & Power
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Mining represents one of the most energy-intensive industries globally. As African nations ramp up mineral extraction to drive economic growth, mining projects and stakeholders are increasingly investing in energy infrastructure to sustain operations and meet rising production targets. Amid efforts to improve grid stability, the upcoming African Mining Week conference will highlight the continent's investment opportunities emerging from the mining-energy nexus.

Northam Bolsters Power Supply for South African Mines

In February 2025, mining firm Northam signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) for 140 MW of wind power to support its platinum group metals operations in Limpopo. This deal follows an earlier PPA signed in October 2024 for an 80 MW solar power facility to supply the company's Zondereinde mine, aimed at driving South Africa's expansion of its PGMs sector. These agreements are part of Northam's broader strategy to enhance energy security and sustainability while reducing its carbon footprint in alignment with national renewable energy goals.

Richards Bay Minerals Expands PPA Portfolio

Richards Bay Minerals, a subsidiary of mining multinational Rio Tinto, signed its third PPA with Red Rocket in February 2025, securing 230 MW of electricity from Red Rocket's 380 MW Overberg Wind Farm. This agreement increases the company's total contracted renewable energy supply to 500 MW and supports Rio Tinto's commitment to reducing emissions by 50% by 2030. Richards Bay Minerals also taps into energy from the 130 MW Bolobedu solar PV plant and 140 MW Khangela Emoyeni wind farm.

Further Investments in Renewables for Mining

Other mining companies across Africa are driving large-scale energy projects to secure a stable power supply. In South Africa, Ivanhoe Mines completed a 5 MW solar facility in Q1 2025 to support its Platreef PGM mine, while Impala Platinum signed a five-year PPA with Discovery Green to supply wheeled renewable energy to its Impala Refineries operation. Meanwhile, commodities firm Trafigura is developing a 2 GW initiative to power Angolan mines, and First Quantum is set to commission a 430 MW project in Zambia in 2025. Tronox Holdings plans to roll out 400 MW of energy projects in South Africa by 2027 and Chinese mining company CMOC is preparing a 200 MW energy project in the DRC, set for commissioning by 2028.

As these investments unfold, African Mining Week will showcase key milestones in energy security for the sector, highlighting lucrative opportunities within Africa's independent power markets. The event will emphasize the growing demand for stable, sustainable energy solutions as miners continue to invest in energy infrastructure.

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

Location: News

Work continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

No effort will be spared in bringing the responsible parties to account in the case of the alleged sexual assault of a seven-year-old child in Matatiele, says Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

“What I can promise, on behalf of the Ministry of Police and the SAPS [South African Police Service] is that we are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served,” Mchunu said.

The Minister was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday.

“This is a matter that transcends individual tragedy, and we acknowledge the deep emotional impact it has had on our communities,” said the Minister, adding that the Eastern Cape matter is a sensitive one that police are handling and dealing with, with great sensitivity.

“When the matter first came to our attention earlier this year, we sent a warrant officer to investigate the matter, interact with the complainant and the investigating officer, whilst looking at other related matters.

“In the initial report we received from the warrant officer, we came to learn that the incident occurred in October last year, and a case was formally opened on the 16th of October 2024, following [the] medical examination of the minor and session with a social worker.”

The Minister said from the report provided by the warrant officer, police concluded that the matter could have been handled better and still needed intervention.

“We then realised that we needed to reinforce the team and have a dedicated officer on the matter. After the handling of the matter by the various offices, one critical aspect which has continued to present a serious challenge is the matter around DNA. DNA testing was done on the victim, with no foreign DNA having been found,” he explained.

Three persons of interest have since emerged and following that, further DNA processing is underway as the investigation continues.

“A thorough investigation is now fully underway, and I can assure you that we are consulting with all relevant role players to ensure that every aspect of this matter is examined carefully and comprehensively.”

Additionally, he said the track record of the Family Violence, Child Protection (FCS) Unit remains commendable with more than 35 500 gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) suspects arrested in the last two years.

READ | FCS unit deployed to boost Matatiele case 

“During the same period, 4500 accused were convicted to time in prison for GBVF related crimes and notably, 660 of them were sentenced to life in prison. This indeed, must illustrate the seriousness at which the SAPS treats victims of GBVF related crimes especially those involving young children,” Mchunu said.

Citing police success in dealing with gender-based violence cases, Mchunu said in the past week alone, 259 rape suspects were arrested.

“This week, we have also welcomed the arrest of a 58-year-old male educator on Monday afternoon, 31 March 2025, for an alleged rape incident of a 13-year-old female learner in the Capricorn District of Limpopo. The Educator has appeared before the Mankweng Magistrates Court and is facing a charge of rape.”

Police will continue to support the family and the victim through the Employee Health and Wellness unit, including any other aspects related to the case. 

“We assure the affected family of our full support and commitment to this case,” he said.

On Saturday, the Ministry of Police assured members of the public that law enforcement is actively investigating two incidences involving the rape of minors in the Eastern Cape.

This was after the Ministry took note of calls on various social media platforms regarding the tragic violation of the two minors in two separate incidences in October and November last year.

In both incidences, the suspects have been identified and were arrested. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:54
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Read moreWork continues to solve Matatiela rape case 

BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

Location: News

BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

While challenges remain, progress has been made in strengthening South Africa’s border management systems, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, said on Tuesday.

“Beside the administrative successes relating to the establishment of the new organisation, there are operational successes, worth mentioning,” he said.

Some of the successes since the authority’s establishment in April 2023, include intercepting stolen vehicles. The authority also successfully managed the movement of heads of state and government technocrats from all over the world as well as a higher number of journalists for the BRICS Summit that the country hosted in August 2023. 

“We were able to apprehend or arrest over 468 000 individuals who were attempting to enter the country illegally since 1 April 2023,” he said, adding that 2 344 wanted criminals were also arrested. 

Additionally, over 262 explosives used in the explosion of rocks during illegal mining operations and the blowing up of cash-in-transit vehicles were also confiscated.

“The establishment of the BMA sought to create a single authority to effect border law enforcement with a single command and control. Contrary to what some people consider to be the functions of the Border Management Authority, our function is not just about stamping passports at the ports of entry,” Masiapato said.

The Commissioner was speaking at the High-Level Colloquium on Migration, in Pretoria.

He said the BMA exists to secure South Africa’s borders and concurrently facilitate legitimate movement of people and goods in all ports of entry and border law enforcement areas. The BMA Act provides for the BMA to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in executing its border law enforcement functions in the Ports of Entry and the Border Law Enforcement areas.

“The Border Management Authority plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth movement of people, goods, and services across borders while ensuring the safety and security of the country,” he said.

The authority also works to prevent the introduction of invasive species, pests and diseases that can harm the environment and ecosystem.

“We also ensure that all imports and exports comply with environmental regulations, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The BMA also monitors the movement of hazardous waste across borders to prevent illegal dumping and ensure compliance with international regulations.

“We also inspect food and water imports to ensure they meet international health standards and regulations. We also monitor the movement of vectors, such as mosquitoes and ticks, to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases,” the Commissioner explained.

He told those attending the colloquium that the authority is most known for its immigration function.

“In this regard, the BMA inspects travel documents, such as passports and visas, to ensure they are authentic and valid. We also monitor the movement of people to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and laws,” he said.

In the last 24 months, the BMA has screened millions of travellers for infectious and communicable diseases and “those we picked up with diseases have been referred to medical facilities for further medical attention.”

Masiapato said despite the achievements, challenges exist.

“Illegal migration, human trafficking and transnational organised crime continue to pose serious threats to our national security and public safety,” he said.

In June 2013, Cabinet made the decision to establish a Border Management Agency under the guidance of the Department of Home Affairs.

President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the Border Management Authority on 5 October 2023, in Musina, Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 04/01/2025 - 14:29
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Government allocates R1.44 billion for natural disaster recovery efforts – Hlabisa

Location: News

Government allocates R1.44 billion for natural disaster recovery efforts – Hlabisa

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has announced a significant financial commitment of R1.44 billion from the R11 billion requested to assist municipalities impacted by recent natural disasters.

The funds, dispersed between February and March 2025, aim to address infrastructure damage caused by floods, heat waves, and severe weather events across multiple provinces.

The grant allocation covers 60 municipalities and provincial sector departments across five provinces, including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Free State, targeting sectors such as infrastructure repair, education, health and agriculture.

Meanwhile, the Minister announced that the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has officially classified recent weather events as a national disaster, enabling prompt intervention and support for affected communities.

“As we face the growing challenges posed by natural hazards such as floods, heat waves, fires and droughts, it is crucial to recognise the substantial threats these events pose to our communities, to our infrastructure, as well as to our economy.

“While climate change has exacerbated some of these risks, we also confront challenges that stem from unsustainable practices and inadequate planning,” the Minister said on Monday at a media briefing. 

He believed that acknowledging these factors allowed government to pursue proactive measures and solutions that can lessen future risks.

The country has been experiencing significant weather events, including heavy rains, floods, thunderstorms and strong winds since the beginning of 2025. 

The Minister is of the view that this calls for urgent collaborative action and resilience-building within communities on behalf of the government and South Africans. 

Hlabisa also took the time to offer his condolences to the families and loved ones of the 40 people who have lost their lives since the December holidays. 

“We continue to commit our efforts to build resilience and reduce the risk of future disasters so that no more lives are needlessly lost.” 

He assured citizens that the State was now turning its attention to recovery and improving preparedness for future challenges by learning through developing stronger systems and strategies that will safeguard citizens and enhance collective resilience.

Hlabisa emphasised the importance of accountability, warning that any mismanagement or diversion of funds will face strict consequences. 

“I'm speaking about the funds amounting to R1.44 billion already in the accounts of our municipalities, but what we notice in some of our municipalities is that the poor infrastructure, planning and implementation become a serious factor.

“The poor workmanship is always noted once the money has been spent, diversion from the original allocation. When money was allocated for a bridge, a municipality decides to use the money for salaries, or when the money was allocated for 3 kilometres, the municipality decided to spend the money on 1 kilometre,” he explained. 

However, he said government will do whatever it takes to ensure that they follow these monies that have been allocated and have given municipalities up until August this year to use the allocated funds.

“The allocation of disaster response and recovery grants is a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our communities and rebuilding our nation as we navigate these challenging times. We must work together, leveraging our collective strengths and resources to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for all people of South Africa,” he concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 03/31/2025 - 14:24
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Read moreGovernment allocates R1.44 billion for natural disaster recovery efforts – Hlabisa

NICD warns of increase in cases of respiratory diphtheria

Location: News

NICD warns of increase in cases of respiratory diphtheria

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has urged citizens to check their children’s vaccination status due to a rise in diphtheria cases in the country.

Since the beginning of 2025, up until 23 March, diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, has been confirmed in 40 people in South Africa.

Of these cases, 19 exhibited symptoms, while 21 were asymptomatic.

“These asymptomatic individuals were carriers identified during contact tracing,” the statement read.

According to data from the NICD, there were 15 reported cases of respiratory diphtheria in the Western Cape, two cases in Gauteng, three cases in Mpumalanga, and one probable case in Limpopo.

Laboratory tests did not confirm the case from Limpopo, but the person exhibited symptoms consistent with respiratory diphtheria.

Over 78% of the cases have occurred in adults aged 18 and older.

Among the symptomatic cases, the public health institute said it was important to note that nine people have died, resulting in a case fatality rate of 27% (nine out of 33 cases) since the beginning of 2024.

“Adults who have not had a diphtheria vaccine in the last 10 years are urged to seek vaccination at a clinic or with their usual healthcare provider.

“Pregnant women are advised to get the vaccine with each pregnancy to protect the baby from diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.”

Diphtheria is a contagious, severe, vaccine-preventable illness usually associated with a sore throat, fever, and large, swollen glands in the neck.

The NICD said this illness is sometimes called a “bull neck”, and on examining a patient, the doctor will see a characteristic adherent membrane over the tonsils and the throat, also known as a “pseudomembrane”.

“If not treated early, the public health institute said diphtheria causes difficulty in breathing and can lead to complete blockage of the airway and death. The organism also produces a toxin that affects the heart muscle, kidneys, and nervous system, leading to life-threatening illness.”

Treatment is with diphtheria antitoxin to neutralise the toxin produced by the bacterium and appropriate antibiotics to eradicate the organism, which should be given early to be effective.

The NICD is encouraging doctors and healthcare workers to be on high alert for suspected diphtheria cases and are urged to report cases on the Notifiable Medical Condition app or the NICD website.

The NICD said the best protection against diphtheria is vaccination.

Infant vaccine is given at six, 10, and 14 weeks of age, with booster doses at 18 months and six and 12 years.

The available vaccines include Dt (diphtheria and tetanus) and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis or whooping cough). – SAnews.gov.za 
 

 

Gabisile
Mon, 03/31/2025 - 09:41
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Public Works Minister to host MINMEC meeting in Limpopo

Location: News

Public Works Minister to host MINMEC meeting in Limpopo

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson is set to open the first quarter meeting of the Minister and MECs (MINMEC) for Public Works and Infrastructure in all the nine provinces.

Thursday’s meeting will be held in Polokwane, Limpopo.

The meeting will also be attended by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba.

“MINMEC will provide an opportunity to reflect on the state of infrastructure in the country, and to adopt implementable plans aimed at achieving the vision of turning South Africa into a construction site and using public assets for the public good. 

“This will contribute to economic growth and help create thousands of new jobs,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.

Before the start of the meeting, the Minister, the Premier and Limpopo MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene, will conduct an oversight visit to the construction site of the Limpopo Theatre at the Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum just outside Polokwane. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 03/26/2025 - 14:16
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Read morePublic Works Minister to host MINMEC meeting in Limpopo

Operation Shanela makes progress

Location: News

Operation Shanela makes progress

Operation Shanela continues to make an impact across the country, with police having arrested 12 892 suspects recently.

“Through Operation Shanela, SAPS [South African Police Service] continues to take a bold and decisive approach to dealing with crime in the country. These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches, as well as tracing of wanted suspects,” SAPS said in a statement this week.

The arrests were made in the period 17 - 23 March 2025.

The police said 123 suspects were arrested for attempted murder; 167 suspects were arrested for murder (with the majority of these suspects, 45, arrested in KwaZulu-Natal and followed by the Western Cape with 42). The police also arrested 1 753 wanted suspects and 203 drug dealers.

A further 1 507 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs. The majority of these suspects (689) were arrested in the Western Cape. Furthermore, 115 suspects were arrested for being in possession of illegal firearms.

Additionally, 10 suspects were arrested for human trafficking, while 432 drivers were arrested for drunken driving.

One hundred and nineteen firearms and 1 335 rounds of ammunition were confiscated. The police also recovered 76 hijacked and stolen vehicles.

Curbing smuggling

Members of the Limpopo Anti-Smuggling team conducted a successful operation along the N11 road in Mahwelereng, which resulted in the arrest of 20 Ethiopian foreign nationals, who were allegedly smuggled into the country. 

Police also arrested suspected drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport. A Brazilian man and South African woman arrived on the same flight from São Paulo, Brazil, and were intercepted by police. Police seized cocaine valued at over R1 million. Their arrest has now brought the total number of similar arrests at the airport to five since January 2025.

“Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the State to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/26/2025 - 09:30
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Creecy unveils private sector role in revitalising rail and port infrastructure

Location: News

Creecy unveils private sector role in revitalising rail and port infrastructure

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has officially unveiled a groundbreaking Request for Information (RFI), aimed at transforming the country’s struggling rail and port infrastructure through strategic partnerships with the private sector.

“Today, I am launching an online request for information to develop an enabling environment for Private Sector Participation (PSP) and enhance investment in rail and port infrastructure and operations,” Creecy said during a media briefing on Sunday. 

The Minister described this decision as a significant step in government’s efforts to partner with the private sector, ensuring that the country’s rail network and ports reclaim their crucial role in enhancing trade and driving economic growth.

Creecy highlighted the urgent need for intervention, citing significant challenges, including infrastructure deterioration, vandalism, theft, underinvestment, and operational inefficiencies that have hindered economic growth. 

“The limited availability of State resources to fund infrastructure development and address backlogs has intensified these challenges, severely restricting the ability of State-Owned Entities (SOEs) to fulfill their critical mandates.,” she explained. 

The Minister told journalists that Transnet and government have received many “unsolicited“ proposals from the private sector offering investment skills and expertise to support the rehabilitation and reform of our struggling rail and port systems.

“This overwhelming interest has made it clear to the department and Transnet that we must engage in broad and inclusive market research before issuing requests for proposals in August this year.” 

However, according to the Minister, these processes are not formal procurement methods, but rather a mechanism to gather and analyse information from the market.

She stated that the government recognises the importance of understanding the freight logistics landscape from the perspective of interested and affected parties. 

The Minister believes that this will ensure that solutions are both effective and sustainable during this initial phase of PSP.

The RFI targets key mineral export routes, include the corridor from Northern Cape to Saldanha for iron ore and manganese exports, as well as the routes from Limpopo and Mpumalanga to Richards Bay for coal and chrome exports. 

In addition, there is an intermodal supply chain project that focuses on the container and automotive sectors.

This project encompasses the port, container, and automotive port terminals, as well as back-of-port arrangements and railway and inland terminals. 

It will also address the corridors connecting Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal (Durban), Gauteng and Eastern Cape (East London, Port Elizabeth and Ngqura), and Gauteng and Western Cape (Cape Town). 

“The RFI represents a pivotal step forward in our shared commitment to building a 21st-century transport system that goes beyond mobility to strengthen industrial competitiveness, deepen regional integration, and drive inclusive economic growth.” 

Creecy believes this move will help the department express challenges in a structured and coherent manner, clearly defining their scope, context, and impact to guide the development of focused, strategic, and sustainable solutions.

Support for new and emerging players

Meanwhile, Creecy said the State has committed to principles of job retention, State asset ownership, localisation, and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) and gender equality, by providing strong support to new and emerging players in the rail and port sectors. 

A dedicated PSP unit, to be hosted by the Development Bank of South Africa, will oversee the initiative.

The eight-week online consultation process, running from 24 March to 9 May 2025, aims to gather comprehensive market insights before issuing formal proposals in August. 

Stakeholders are encouraged to participate through the department’s website or dedicated online portal at www.psp-rfi.co.za, with all submitted information to be treated confidentially. 

“I encourage all Interested and affected parties to actively engage in this RFI process, contributing to the PSP unit’s efforts in shaping the potential PSP programme of projects and designing future bid packages for procurement,” she added. 

Government plans to release a second RFI focusing on passenger rail initiatives in May this year. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 03/23/2025 - 13:28
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Plantation initiatives provide job opportunities 

Location: News

Plantation initiatives provide job opportunities 

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced initiatives that will significantly contribute to the sustainable management of South Africa’s plantations while creating employment opportunities.

Through such initiatives, 1461 workers have been employed through the Expanded Public Works Programme, providing the communities within these plantations much-needed work opportunities in Category B and C plantations located in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

“These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to sustainable forestry management practices and dedication to fostering economic opportunities in communities across these regions,” George said on Thursday.

The first initiative is the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment’s (DFFE) commitment to planting 1 800 hectares annually. 

It’s part of the department’s strategy to reduce temporary unplanted areas, enhance productivity, and contribute to fibre security in South Africa.

“By addressing temporary unplanted areas, we envision that our efforts will not only strengthen the forestry sector but will also stimulate economic growth in surrounding communities through job creation and other socio-economic benefits.

“The department remains committed to promoting the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s plantations while ensuring tangible benefits for communities living near these forestry areas,” the Minister said.

The second initiative, also linked to the sustainable management of plantations, is the maintenance of land through strategic silvicultural 1 practices in plantations where the target has increased from 2 100 to 6 500 hectares from the 2025/26 financial year. 
This represents an increase of over 200%.

These silvicultural activities, which include fire risk reduction, pest and disease management, timber quality improvement, and enhanced accessibility within compartments, are essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability and productivity of these plantations.'

By implementing these measures, the department aims to improve the value of standing timber, safeguard plantation ecosystems, and support the broader forestry industry. 

These efforts will also stimulate rural economic growth in surrounding communities through job creation and the protection of vital natural resources. -SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:27
 294 views

Read morePlantation initiatives provide job opportunities 

Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes

Location: News

Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes

Over the last two months, government has adopted an improved approach to managing road safety and it has resulted in a decrease in road crashes.

“The consequence of these actions is that we saw a 10% month-on-month decline in accidents in January 2025 compared with January 2024, and a 25% decline in accidents when one compares February 2025 with February 2024,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, said on Thursday.

As part of this strategy, the Department of Transport has deployed the National Traffic Police on key routes at month end, deepened cooperation and focused on high-risk areas amongst national, provincial and municipal traffic officers. It also focuses on arresting pedestrians who walk on highways.

During this period 21 282 fines were issued to drivers for speeding, and over 3 000 drivers were arrested for drunk driving during January and February. About 12 000 illegal vehicles were impounded.

The Minister was speaking during the launch of the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign, that is taking place from 20 March to 2 May 2025, under the theme: “It begins with Me”. 

“We chose this theme because driver and pedestrian behaviour is responsible for 87% of road accidents and fatalities in our country. And so, reducing road fatalities and accidents is the responsibility of each one of us.

“The National Traffic Police, [including] South African Police Services provincial traffic departments, Cross Border Road Traffic Agency, Border Management Agency, the metros and local authorities, will work together to patrol routes leading to Limpopo, KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Free State, Eastern Cape and Western Cape. High visibility will also be maintained in Gauteng.

“We have identified the most critical routes across the country requiring additional resources and more focused monitoring over this period,” she said.

These include among others, the following:

  • The N4 Nelspruit;
  • Mankweng (R71);
  • Libode on the N2, Mthatha’s R61;
  • Parys (FS), R54;
  • Harrismith and the N3;
  • KwaDukuza, N2 in KZN and
  • N4 Middleburg in Mpumalanga.

Over the next six weeks the department will focus on working with the bus industry to check vehicle roadworthiness and educate drivers on fatigue management ahead of the Easer weekend.

Meetings will also be held with faith-based sector to support safe and appropriate travel arrangements to the big events over the Easter weekend. Taxi ranks will be visited to inspect vehicles and safer driving practices will be promoted. -SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 14:09
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Read moreGovernment adopts improved approach to curb road crashes