Lottery Licence Bidder Accuses Minister of Favouring Ithuba
HCI subsidiary Wina Njalo brought an urgent court application after Minister Parks Tau postponed deadline for new operator
office
African Development Bank Group to Expand Investment in Lesotho to $331 Million
The African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) plans to invest $331 million in key strategic sectors in Lesotho as part of its proposed Country Strategy Paper for 2025-2030 to boost economic growth and industrial competitiveness.
During an official visit to Lesotho -- the first by an African Development Bank President -- Dr. Akinwumi Adesina met with His Majesty King Letsie III to discuss strengthening development partnerships and expanding the Bank's investments in the country.
His Majesty expressed delight at the Bank President's visit, viewing the mission as a reflection of the Bank and Adesina's appreciation for Lesotho's progress in improving people's lives.
“With haste, we will ensure that the policies and incentives to accommodate the needs of and attract the private sector are in place, especially in healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing,” the King remarked.
King Letsie said he was confident that Adesina, whom he described as a 'man of action,' would help catalyze progress on the Bank's strategic projects in Lesotho.
Adesina thanked King Letsie for his strong leadership role as the African Union Nutrition Champion since 2014, his advocacy for improved nutrition and food security on the continent -- especially for women, adolescents, and children -- and his passion for youth development.
The African Development Bank president commended His Majesty for his leadership on the King Letsie III Just Energy Transition Fund, which aims to generate approximately 200 megawatts of power through private sector investments.
He also briefed King Letsie about the Bank's new 2025-2030 Country strategy paper and planned investments of $331 million to support quality infrastructure, capacity building, energy, integration and interconnectivity, debt management and standards, and strengthening the office of the Prime Minister.
Referencing dwindling donor commitments globally, Dr. Adesina said, "Africa must prepare to engage more proactively with the private sector. Every challenge is an investor's dream. Ultimately, capital, like water, will always find a receptive place to go."
According to Adesina, the Bank has implemented 87 projects totaling $429 million since Lesotho joined the Bank in 1973.
"We have eight ongoing projects worth $60 million, and we look forward to significantly expanding our commitments," Adesina said.
The Bank's investment strategy for Lesotho will focus on several priority areas:
- Energy infrastructure, including electricity transmission lines connecting Lesotho to South Africa
- Agricultural development to enhance food security and rural livelihoods
- Climate resilience initiatives to address environmental challenges
- Digital transformation, including broadband expansion for digital financial inclusion and government service digitalization
- Water resource management, building on the success of the Lesotho Lowland Rural Water Supply Project
- Public financial management and debt management support
- Trade competitiveness enhancements through improved grades and standards for exports
The African Development Bank-led Lesotho Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project has delivered remarkable results: 190 kilometers of pipeline to distribution networks, water storage tanks with a total capacity of 3.48 million liters, and 166 public water points serving approximately 28,266 people across eight zones in Maseru and Berea districts.
Responding to King Letsie's request, Dr. Adesina said the Bank will prioritize investments in primary healthcare centers across Lesotho.
“We will work on an integrated project that includes components of energy, a potential multi-partner $2.3 billion water transfer project from Lesotho through South Africa to Botswana, agro-value chains, and trade facilitation in Lesotho,” Adesina said after the meeting with King Letsie III.
The Bank is expected to support Lesotho in mobilizing approximately $260 million for the integrated water transfer project, which will supply 308 million cubic meters of water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use through a 700 km pipe system. The project has the potential to generate up to 22 MW of hydropower.
Speaking earlier, Minister of Finance and Development Planning Retselisitsoe Matlanyane indicated that as Lesotho's energy supply will exceed domestic demand by the end of 2026, the country intends to build a substation to export excess power production to South Africa. She reiterated Lesotho's commitment to private sector-friendly policies and engagement.
The minister highlighted the importance of primary healthcare and nutrition investments to help combat extreme stunting in several parts of the country.
King Letsie is the African Union-appointed African Leaders for Nutrition champion. The initiative, spearheaded by the African Development Bank and championed by African leaders, works to galvanize political will and significant investments to end malnutrition on the continent.
Dr. Adesina also met with Prime Minister Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane; and the ministers of Foreign Affairs; Agriculture, Food Security & Nutrition; Natural Resources; Health; Communication, Science & Technology; and Education & Training.
The Bank's delegation to Lesotho included its Executive Director for Lesotho, Dr. Nomfundo X. Ngwenya; Deputy Director General for Southern Africa, Moono Mupotola; and Senior Advisor to the President for Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, Dr. Victor Oladokun.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media Contact:
Emeka Anuforo
Principal Regional Communication Officer
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
Eighth SASSA official hands herself over to police
Eighth SASSA official hands herself over to police
A Johannesburg-based South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) office official, who has been on the run, has handed herself over at the Kliptown Police Station.
This follows the court appearance of seven SASSA officials in the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court on 18 March 2025, who are facing more than 1 000 fraud-related charges.
The suspects appeared alongside three of their accomplices, who are not in the employ of SASSA.
The matter was postponed to 1 April 2025 for a bail hearing.
SASSA confirmed on Monday that the official handed herself over on Sunday, 23 March 2025, accompanied by her lawyer.
The agency has welcomed the latest developments, noting that this brings to eight the number of SASSA officials allegedly involved in various counts of fraud.
“SASSA is pleased by the latest development and hopes that the law will take its course to make people accountable for their actions. As SASSA, we will continue to work with the law enforcement agencies and provide them with all the necessary information at our disposal that they need to ensure successful prosecution of all those involved,” said SASSA national spokesperson, Paseka Letsatsi.
Letsatsi said this is part of an ongoing process by the agency, directed by Social Development Minister, Nokuzola Tolashe, to clamp down on fraud and corrupt activities in all SASSA offices across the country.
SASSA has appealed to members of the public to work with the agency and report grant fraud and corruption to 0800 60 10 11, or the National Anti-Corruption Hotline at 0800 701 701. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 03/24/2025 - 15:27
126 views
Gauteng High Court Proposes Mandatory Mediation for Civil Cases
Judges Matter welcomes the move but says more judges are needed
Deaths, Cover-Ups and Bribes at Zimbabwe’s Lawless Redwing Mine
Thousands of artisanal gold miners toil in the dirt in a mine controlled by political elites
IAEOG Namibia 2025
We bring you compliments from the Chairman Hon. Justice Suleiman Galadima JSC, CFR, OFR (Rtd.) and the Management of African Peace Magazine UK (https://AfricanPeace.org/).
African Peace Magazine UK, has been publishing for well over 15 years, and we are committed to promoting Peace, business networking, good governance and improved condition of living for Africans.
We are pleased to invite you to the 2025 International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit, an event pivotal for those eager to stay abreast with the latest trends, innovations and opportunities in the oil and gas industry in Africa.
The International African Energy, Oil & Gas Summit & Awards/Exhibition (IAEOG) is few months away, kicking off on 4th-10th of August 2025.
This premier event continues to grow remarkably each year, with over 2500 attendees expected to converge from more than 50 countries under one roof.
The IAEOG is an interactive exhibition and networking event that unites global and African Energy key players, stakeholders, and decision makers.
This event is a proactive endeavor supporting the AfCTA's mission to forge regional value chains in Africa, aims at stimulating investment and job creation across the continent and ensure energy security.
AfCFTA ultimate goal is to unify approximately 1.3 billion people across Africa, with a collective GDP of nearing US$ 3.4 trillion.
The African Peace Organization, in conjunction with other strategic partners is set to organize the 4th Edition of the International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit Namibia 2025 with the Theme: Getting it Right, scheduled to hold on the 4th -10th of August 2025 in Namibia. It would feature panel discussions, presentations, exhibitions, dinners, golf tournament, award presentations, tours and a host of others. The venue for Charity Golf Tournament; is the 18th Hole Championship Golf Course of the prestigious Windhoek Golf & Country Club.
The event seeks to promote further business corporation between Nigeria – Namibia and other African Countries as a follow up to the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.
The summit will bring together high level top executives, CEOs, Managers, investors, the business community, government agencies, exporters and importers from oil and gas sectors from across Africa and the world. To deliberate on the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition and the future of oil and gas in Africa
Further the purpose of the summit is to facilitate trade amongst African countries and the world by providing a physical networking platform for participants to interface with their potential clients and partners, as well as to attract investment opportunities for business growth across Africa particularly in the oil and gas sector.
Join 540+ downstream trailblazers across reliability & maintenance, shutdown & turnarounds and capital projects at the Namibian oil and Gas summit 2025 sharing exclusive lessons learned and new best practices during 3-days of interactive, peer-led discussions and explore 50+ booths showcasing the latest innovation driving efficiency and safety.
Green Energy International Ltd (GEIL), an indigenous Nigeria oil and gas producing company and operator of the Otakikpo Marginal Field in OML-11, will attend and participate as a Bronze sponsor at this year's edition of the conference. The company is one of Nigeria's most vibrant service companies driving investment and infrastructure development for economic growth.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Peace Magazine.
For sponsorship, participation, partnership, Exhibition and speaking opportunities and all other enquiries please contact:
Sandra Chia
International Affairs
+2348033975746
+447407399766
Email: africanpeacemag@gmail.com
Nigeria Abuja Office:
Suite FT 12B
Alibro Atrium Plaza
Utako, Abuja
+2348033975746
South African Office:
16 Ridge Road
Vorna Valley
Midland 1686
South Africa
+27662449117
Angola:
Call: +244928690892
+244993656970
+244927589884
London Office:
Call: +4477771217805
WhatsApp: +447407399766
Social Media:
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/41U2TaH
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/41U2UeL
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4kOkRE5
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4kN8ckT
About African Peace:
African Peace Organization is an international organization for peace promotion, cultural relations, good governance and educational opportunities.
We build connections, understanding and trust between Africans and world. APO is also the organizer of the prestigious African Peace Awards.
APO is a brand which includes African Peace Television, African Peace Radio and African Peace Magazine. APO has been publishing for well over 15 years, and we are committed to promoting Peace, business networking, good governance and improved condition of living for Africans.
African Peace Organization through its Magazine condemns violence and acknowledges those who strive to make the strife disappear. It features pieces, articles and write-ups which go a long way in promoting this noble cause of peace. We at African Peace Magazine believe that every sector of a nation contributes in the collective journey of a peace country.
The IAEOG 2025 Summit will take place in August 2025; it will unveil investment prospects and connect global players to the growing Namibian oil and gas market.
Secure Your Exclusive Group Rate & Network with Global Oil & Gas Leaders in Namibia.
We would like to present an exclusive group booking rate for your attendance at IAEOG, buy 4 early bird delegate passes, and receive 1 complimentary pass. By joining us at the event, your team will gain market insights, forge essential connections, and meet our sponsors, partners, and speakers.
Africa Peace Magazine:
Website: https://AfricanPeace.org/
www.AfricanPeaceAwards.com
https://AfricanOilAndGasSummit.com/
www.IAEOGS.com
CGE to host dialogue with Parliament’s women, youth, and disabilities committee
CGE to host dialogue with Parliament’s women, youth, and disabilities committee
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) will on Monday, host the Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities at its KwaZulu-Natal provincial office in Durban.
The meeting will discuss the programmes the CGE is implementing in the province.
The engagement will be followed by a week-long committee oversight into different service delivery areas that are meant to address gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and its intersectional recovery programmes.
The portfolio committee intends to embark on assessing the provision of services for victims and survivors of GBVF.
“The committee will also be visiting and meeting institutions that are providing services to young women and adolescent girls in respect of access to sexual reproductive health rights and education with a special focus on sanitary dignity pads and learner pregnancy,” the Commission said in a statement.
The commission’s research report titled “School Dropout of Adolescent Girls during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: Policy Dialogue“, will provide an opportunity for increased engagement based on its findings and recommendations from the oversight visit. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 03/23/2025 - 10:34
103 views
UNIDO and Japan Highlight Longstanding Partnership for and With Africa at Special Event
The Permanent Mission of Japan to the International Organizations in Vienna and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) jointly hosted the “UNIDO-Japan partnership for Africa” event at the Vienna International Centre this week. Held in the framework of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), it showcased achievements through a week-long panel exhibition and a series of thematic discussions.
An opening ceremony on 17 March 2025 in the Rotunda featured remarks by UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller (via video message) and the co-host, Ambassador Atsushi Kaifu of Japan. Ambassador Maimounata Ouattara of Burkina Faso, Chairperson of the African Group in Vienna and UNIDO Deputy to the Director General and Managing Director Yuko Yasunaga also provided opening remarks. A musical performance by the My Heart String Quartet Hiroshima accompanied the ceremony.
In his video statement, Director General Müller underscored the strength of the partnership between UNIDO and Japan, noting, “UNIDO and Japan together address poverty and hunger, advance climate action and foster a circular economy. We create jobs and livelihoods around the world, offering perspectives for the future”. Ambassador Kaifu of Japan underscored the significance of the year 2025, as the TICAD 9 Summit will be held this August in Yokohama, Japan. He expressed the hope that “this week's event provides an opportunity to explore innovative solutions for Africa and serves as a significant milestone in advancing the TICAD process”.
Ambassador Kaifu of Japan underscored the significance of the year 2025, as the TICAD 9 Summit will be held this August in Yokohama, Japan. He expressed the hope that “this week's event provides an opportunity to explore innovative solutions for Africa and serves as a significant milestone in advancing the TICAD process”.
Ambassador Ouattara reaffirmed the importance of the UNIDO-Japan partnership with Africa stating that it “played a transformative role in promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization across our continent”. She further highlighted that “this partnership has contributed to economic growth, job creation and the adoption of sustainable practices that empower Africa industries and communities”. Deputy to the Director General Yuko Yasunaga highlighted UNIDO's ongoing commitment to supporting Africa's industrial development and acknowledged Japan's significant financial contributions.
The opening ceremony included the presentation of newly funded projects in Ethiopia, Nigeria, Sudan, the United Republic of Tanzania, and a regional project (Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia). Following the opening ceremony, a reception provided attendees with networking opportunities, while discussions continued in informative sessions.
The first session was a presentation on the activities of the UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) Tokyo in Africa, by Fumio Adachi, Head of ITPO Tokyo. The session informed about seminars and events, the delegate programme and African business advisors programme of the ITPO in Tokyo, as well as its Sustainable Technology Promotion Platform (STePP) and Global South programme.
Another session focused on plastic circular economy initiatives and challenges in Japan and Africa. Government representatives from seven African countries —Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa and the United Republic of Tanzania— discussed efforts to address plastic pollution through circular economy approaches. The discussion underscored how Africa's increasing plastic consumption, driven by population growth and urbanization, can benefit from sustainable waste management solutions.
A seminar on UNIDO's data-based lean manufacturing showcased the success story of the digital tool “U-SPARK” (UNIDO smart performance analytics for real-time Kaizen) which helps enhance enterprise performance management in Ghana's food processing sector. UNIDO is now working with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to expand the initiative across the continent.
Throughout the week, the results of the UNIDO-Japan cooperation in Africa were on display in a panel exhibition, showcasing our work in Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Morocco, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, South Africa, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, and Zambia, as well as the activities of ITPO Tokyo.
Through the week-long event, UNIDO and Japan reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing industrial development in Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
African Region Records Further Decline in TB Deaths, Cases
The African region has recorded the steepest decline globally in tuberculosis (TB) deaths since 2015, despite falling short of key milestones to significantly lower the burden of the disease and end its toll on health and lives.
Deaths from TB fell by 42% between 2015 and 2023 while cases declined by 24% over the same period, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global TB Report 2024.
The reductions were mainly due to increased efforts by countries to reinforce case detection and provision of treatment, thus averting deaths. About 1.9 million cases were detected in 2023 compared with 1.4 million in 2020. Over the same period, treatment coverage rose from 55% to 74% across the region.
This year, World TB Day is being marked under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, which calls for urgent action to turn commitments into tangible impact. It emphasizes the need for strong investment and decisive measures to scale up WHO-recommended interventions for early detection, diagnosis, preventive treatment and high-quality TB care.
The WHO End TB Strategy calls for countries to reduce TB deaths and cases by 75% and 50% respectively by 2025, compared with 2015 levels.
Several African countries have made notable progress. South Africa achieved a 50% reduction in TB incidence between 2015 and 2023, becoming the first country in the region to surpass the 2025 milestone ahead of schedule.
Mozambique, Tanzania, Togo and Zambia have also already met the 2025 goal of a 75% reduction in TB deaths. Other countries, including Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Uganda are close behind, with mortality reductions of 66% or more.
At a subregional level, Eastern and Southern Africa has been the main driver of TB reduction, cutting incidence from 466 to 266 per 100 000 between 2000 and 2023. Progress has been slower in Central and West Africa, where TB incidence and mortality remain a concern.
Despite the progress, several challenges still need to be overcome. Limited access to rapid diagnostics, which currently reach only 54% of TB patients, is one of the most pressing issues. While this marks a significant improvement from just 24% in 2015 – nearly doubling coverage in 10 years – access is insufficient to curb the spread of multidrug-resistant TB strains.
The burden of MDR-TB persists, with more than half of these cases undiagnosed and untreated in 2023.
TB also imposes a severe economic burden. For nearly 68% of TB-affected households in Africa, the cost of seeking treatment is catastrophic. Many families face high out-of-pocket medical expenses, loss of income and inadequate social protection, hindering adherence and full recovery.
Low funding continues to impede TB control efforts at national and regional levels. The African region requires US$ 4.5 billion annually for comprehensive TB services, yet only US$ 0.9 billion is currently available, leaving a US$ 3.6-billion gap. Without urgent investment, life-saving interventions will remain out of reach for many.
WHO continues to support countries to reinforce TB control and contribute to global efforts against the disease. This includes working with countries to adopt rapid diagnosis and updated treatment guides, in line with the UN High-Level Meeting Political Declaration on TB 2023.
To meet the global targets, urgent action is required to close the diagnostic gap, increase funding, and expand access to treatment and prevention.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.
More Than 100 Law Firms Defrauded the Road Accident Fund
Special Investigating Unit tells Parliament duplicate payments to lawyers amounted to R340-million
SASSA Explains Why It Paid Grants to 75,000 Dead People
Systems are being improved to solve the problem
Today is D-day for SASSA gold cards
Today is D-day for SASSA gold cards
Social grant beneficiaries who have not replaced their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards with the new Postbank black cards, have been urged to do so.
On 20 March 2025, SASSA gold cards will be deactivated and beneficiaries who have not yet transitioned to the new Postbank black cards, may face disruptions in making transactions from the card.
The beneficiaries will also not be able to use the SASSA gold cards to make any transaction, even if they have funds in their account.
However, Postbank will continue to replace SASSA gold cards with new Postbank black cards in all its card replacement sites, even after this date.
Postbank and SASSA have assured that all social grant beneficiaries will continue to be paid, including all the social grant beneficiaries who have not been able to get their black cards.
Beneficiaries are urged to note that the Post Office branch payments will be restricted to social grant beneficiaries that are yet to replace their SASSA gold cards, asylum seekers and Postbank green Mzansi/blue cards’ grant beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries who already have Postbank black cards are urged to use their card through ATMs and retailers to access their funds.
The initial deadline for this transition was set for 28 February 2025 but was extended to 20 March 2025 to provide beneficiaries with additional time to make the switch.
The new Postbank Black Cards can be obtained at various retailers, including Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer. To receive a new card, beneficiaries need to present a valid South African ID or a temporary ID.
Postbank has also made it easy for beneficiaries to locate the nearest place in every province where they can collect their Postbank Black Cards. Beneficiaries can use their cellphones to:
Dial: *120*355#
To continue, reply by pressing number: 1
Reply with the number representing the province you live in.
The new Postbank Black Cards offer several benefits, including improved security features, one free card replacement per year, three free withdrawals in stores per month, and one free monthly statement over the counter. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:13
106 views
Big Oil Find in Limpopo? Or Just False Hope?
Troubling questions for Booi Brothers about their exploration in Vhurivhuri
One day left until the SASSA gold card stops working
One day left until the SASSA gold card stops working
Social grant beneficiaries who have not replaced their South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold cards with the new Postbank black cards, have only one day left to make the change, before their gold cards stop working.
After tomorrow, 20 March 2025, SASSA gold cards will be deactivated and beneficiaries who have not yet transitioned to the new Postbank black cards, may face disruptions in making any transactions from the card.
The beneficiaries would also not be able to use the SASSA gold cards to make any transaction, even if they have funds in their account.
Earlier this week, SASSA and Postbank held a media briefing to update on the process of replacing the SASSA gold cards with the Postbank black cards.
Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe, explained that after the deadline, beneficiaries will not be able to use SASSA gold cards to buy or withdraw cash inside stores.
“Retailers would not accept the cards for any transactions, and any attempts will result in automatic system transaction declines. Beneficiaries would also not be able to use SASSA gold cards on any ATM. The SASSA gold may be swallowed when inserted in any ATM to attempt a transaction,” Mbengashe said on Monday.
However, the CEO further explained that tomorrow’s deadline is not a cut-off date for when Postbank stops replacing SASSA gold cards.
Postbank will continue replacing SASSA gold cards with new Postbank black cards in all its card replacement sites, even after this date.
“Social grant beneficiaries may still replace their SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards on, and after, 20th of March 2025.
“To prepare for the next grant payments that are scheduled for 3 to 5 April 2025, SASSA and Postbank encourage beneficiaries to make extra efforts to use the period between now and the payments dates to get their black cards,” Mbengashe said.
How do I access my April Grant payment if I do not have a black card yet?
Postbank and SASSA have assured social grant beneficiaries and the public that the payments of social grants will not be interrupted.
All social grant beneficiaries will continue to be paid, including all the social grant beneficiaries who have not been able to get their black cards.
“Starting from the next grant payments that are scheduled for 3 to 5 April 2025 and onwards, social grant beneficiaries that are yet to replace their gold cards with Postbank black cards, can go withdraw their grant at their nearest Post Office.
“There are currently 543 Post Office branches countrywide that we are working with. All that one will need to make this withdrawal is their ID (green barcoded ID, smart card ID, or temporary ID),” Mbengashe said.
Mbengashe added that the Post Office branch-based payments are a channel that many of the social grant beneficiaries have used before, and they are familiar with.
Beneficiaries are urged to note that the Post Office branch payments will be restricted to social grant beneficiaries that are yet to replace their SASSA gold cards, asylum seekers and Postbank green Mzansi/blue cards’ grant beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries who already have Postbank black cards are urged to use their card through ATMs and retailers to access their funds.
The initial deadline for this transition was set for 28 February 2025 but was extended to 20 March 2025 to provide beneficiaries with additional time to make the switch.
To date, over one million beneficiaries have successfully replaced their old SASSA Gold Cards with the new Postbank Black Cards.
Beneficiaries who have not yet made the switch are strongly encouraged to do so immediately to avoid any inconvenience.
The new Postbank Black Cards can be obtained at various retailers, including Checkers, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Usave, and Boxer. To receive a new card, beneficiaries need to present a valid South African ID or a temporary ID.
Postbank has also made it easy for beneficiaries to locate the nearest place in every province where they can collect their Postbank Black Cards. Beneficiaries can use their cellphones to:
- Dial: 120*355#
- To continue, reply by pressing number: 1
- Reply with the number representing the province they live in
The new Postbank Black Cards offer several benefits, including improved security features, one free card replacement per year, three free withdrawals in stores per month, and one free monthly statement over the counter. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 13:23
312 views
Treasury and SASSA Granted Leave to Appeal Ruling on SRD Grant
“Due to the complexity and seriousness of this case…it deserves the attention of the Supreme Court of Appeal,” says Judge Leonard Twala
Support From the United Kingdom Enables Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to Scale up Pest Monitoring and Improve Food Security in Africa
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a contribution of nearly USD 1.2 million (£ 950 000) from the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland which will support the implementation of the Africa Phytosanitary Programme (APP).
APP is an initiative of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and is designed to strengthen the technical capacity of personnel in national plant protection organizations - government agencies responsible for phytosanitary work. The programme equips them to use scientific approaches and advanced digital technologies to improve monitoring, detection, response and recovery from pest outbreaks.
Annually, pests cause between 30 to 60 percent of crop losses in Africa, resulting in an economic cost of about USD 65.58 billion. These losses leave millions of people at risk of food insecurity, impact small-scale and commercial farmers' livelihoods and hinder regional and international trade of agricultural commodities.
“This contribution to the APP will strengthen Africa's phytosanitary capacity, enhancing our collective efforts to combat plant pests. Robust plant health systems are essential for safeguarding food security, enhancing biosecurity, facilitating trade, and protecting livelihoods across the continent,” said Beth Bechdol, FAO Deputy Director-General and interim IPPC Secretary.
The APP implementation targets all 54 African countries, with phase one underway in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Mali, Morocco, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Phase two will be launched in 2025 with eight countries: Algeria, Cabo Verde, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Liberia, Malawi, South Africa and Tunisia.
A partnership for sustainable and resilient agriculture
Since becoming a Member of FAO in 1945, the United Kingdom has helped to promote sustainable agriculture and global food security by supporting the Organization's strategic work in areas such as agricultural statistics, nutrition and food security analysis, development cooperation, resilience and peacebuilding, and climate change. The most recent contribution from the UK's International Biological Security Programme will bolster a key area of FAO's work, helping to prevent, detect and manage plant pests that have the potential to move quickly and easily across borders and cause significant economic and environmental damage.
“We applaud the support of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to strengthen phytosanitary systems across Africa,” said Alexander Jones, Director of FAO's Resource Mobilization Division. “As global travel and trade increase, improving the technical capacities of national plant protection organizations so that they are able to identify and respond to threats as they emerge is an investment whose impacts will be felt at a global level.”
The United Kingdom has been a strong advocate for plant health throughout the years, lending support to various IPPC initiatives such as the International Year of Plant Health, the first International Plant Health Conference, the IPPC ePhyto Solution, and assessment and management of climate change impacts on plant health. The United Kingdom is also closely engaged in the development and implementation of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs), which provide the basis for countries to make national legislation, guidelines, and measures to protect their plant resources from pests.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FAO Regional Office for Africa.
Mashatile to lead official World TB Day and National End TB campaign
Mashatile to lead official World TB Day and National End TB campaign
The Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC), Deputy President Paul Mashatile, will deliver the keynote address at the national World TB Day commemorative event on Monday, 24 March 2025.
World TB Day is commemorated annually on the 24th of March to raise public awareness about the global epidemic of tuberculosis (TB) and highlight efforts to eliminate the disease.
The day is also designated to highlight the devastating health, social and economic impact of TB.
During the event on Monday, the Deputy President will also launch the National End TB Campaign at the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre in Gamalakhe Township, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the Presidency, South Africa is one of the countries most affected by TB and remains the leading cause of death in the country, claiming approximately 56 000 lives each year, with 54% of these deaths among people living with HIV.
This year’s official country theme for World TB Day is “Yes! You and I Can End TB – Commit, Invest, Deliver".
“This is a clarion call for leaders to champion TB efforts in their respective constituencies and encourage individual action from all South Africans to contribute to the national effort against TB.“
The Deputy President’s Office said the significance of this year’s commemoration will be marked by the launch of the National End TB campaign designed to substantially reduce TB incidence and mortality in South Africa by 2035.
This campaign will be carried out in phases, beginning with a focus on case finding and linking patients to care in the year 2025/26.
The campaign aims to diagnose 250 000 new TB cases by 2025/26 through targeted testing of five million people.
This will be accomplished by implementing Accelerated Targeted Universal TB Testing (TUTT) to reach individuals living with HIV and household contacts with confirmed TB cases.
The Deputy President will be joined by the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Thamsanqa Ntuli, SANAC Civil Society Chairperson Solly Nduku, Chairperson of the SANAC Private Sector Forum Mpumi Zikalala, and SANAC CEO Dr Thembi Xulu.
They will also be joined by representatives from development partners inclusive of the United Nations agencies, United States government agencies, research entities, civil society movements and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 10:13
102 views
Only One Million Grantees Have So Far Switched to Postbank’s New Card
Postbank says it’s issuing over 30,000 per day to get as many people swapped before the 20 March deadline
Kenya’s President Ruto Awards African Development Bank’s Adesina Highest National Honour
- “I am proud of the journey we started together ten years ago; I can see its fruits. Kenyans can feel its benefits,” President Ruto
- “What a great honour! What a rare privilege! What a historic recognition!” Adesina
Kenya's President H.E. William Samoei Ruto has conferred the country's highest honour, Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart CGH, on the President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr Akinwumi Adesina (www.AfDB.org).
Dr Adesina becomes the 20th recipient of the honour that was established in 1967 and first awarded to Kenya's founding father and former President, H.E. Jomo Kenyatta. Others include globally renowned leaders such as former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, South Africa's Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Uganda's Yoweri Museveni and Kenya's subsequent Presidents Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta and Dr Ruto.
During a colourful investiture ceremony at Nairobi's State House, President Ruto praised Dr Adesina's distinguished service, commitment, and passion for the economic development of Kenya and Africa.
President Ruto congratulated Adesina and told him, “You are amazing. You are a great leader. You deserve this honour and investiture.”
The two leaders share a warm relationship that dates back 20 years when Adesina lived and worked in Kenya for the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa, AGRA. At that time Ruto was Kenya's Minister for Agriculture. Both recalled how they worked together to provide subsidies to farmers despite opposition at the time from some donors and global financial institutions.
President Ruto said under his presidency he has continued with the same policy of offering subsidies to farmers, leading to an increase in the country's food production.
“Our maize production increased from 40 million to 70 million bags last year. Our sales from tea, generated more than 220 billion shillings [approximately $1.7 billion], the highest ever earnings.”
“I am proud of the journey we started together ten years ago; I can see its fruits. Kenyans can feel its benefits,” President Ruto told Adesina who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Grace Yemisi Adesina.
In its citation, the Kenya government recognized Adesina as a distinguished economist and a global development leader.
“He transformed the African Development Bank into a globally recognized institution for financial innovation and development impact and grown the Bank's general capital from $93 billion to $318 billion,” the citation reads.
In his acceptance speech, Adesina said: “I am greatly humbled by your incredible kindness! What a great honour! What a rare privilege! What a historic recognition!”
Adesina spoke about Kenya's special place in the history of the Bank which was established in 1964. Since then, the Bank has financed a total of 167 projects, with financial commitment of $7.8 billion.
He said the Bank's current portfolio in Kenya consists of 45 projects worth $4.09 billion. They include, among others:
- The Last-Mile Connectivity electricity project, which has helped to increase the number of Kenyans connected to the national electricity grid from 2.42 million households in 2014 to 9.7 million households in 2024.
- The expansion of the Thika-Nairobi Highway, which has drastically reduced travel time from 2-3 hours to just 30-45 minutes between the two destinations.
- The Bank is providing $634 million for the Kenya Town's Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation project. This includes 314.92 million Euros for the construction of the Thwake Multipurpose Water Dam, to be completed by July 2026. It will provide water to about 1.3 million people in Kitui and Makueni counties, as well as the Konza Techno-City in Machakos County.
- The Bank's support for the private sector in Kenya includes over $700 million in lines of credit to more than eight commercial banks.
President Ruto said the Bank's support to the country's mortgage sector has boosted the government's national housing programme, with 150,000 houses under construction, generating jobs for 260, 000 youth.
Speaking about Kenya's high youth unemployment, Adesina pointed to several youth riots that shook the country last year.
In addition to providing $309 million for eight on-going projects targeting skills development, Adesina said the Bank is preparing for Board approval, financial support for the establishment of a Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank of Kenya.
“This will be a stand-alone financial institution, that will be 100 percent dedicated to providing technical assistance, debt and equity financing for youth businesses in Kenya.”
Adesina was accompanied by Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth Dr Kevin Kariuki, the Vice President for Regional Development, Integration and Business Delivery Nnenna Nwabufo; the Director General for East Africa, Kennedy Mbekeani; the Executive Director for Eastern Africa, Jonathan Nzayikorera; and his Senior Advisor to the President for Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Dr Victor Oladokun, who delivered the opening prayer for the ceremony.
“This is an honour that I will cherish for life,” Adesina said. “It will be a constant reminder that the country I love so much, Kenya, loves me back, appreciates and celebrates my leadership at the African Development Bank, and values and honours the incredible contributions of the Bank to its development. I accept this honour with great humility.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
To look at the album click here (apo-opa.co/3FzwNt7).
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
Asylum Seekers Face Arrest While They Battle Broken System
Refugees without valid visas are blocked from applying for asylum
Over one million grant beneficiaries heed call to swap SASSA gold cards
Over one million grant beneficiaries heed call to swap SASSA gold cards
Postbank has announced that as it has successfully swapped over one million social grant beneficiaries from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold card to the new Postbank black cards.
This was announced by Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe during a joint media briefing by Postbank and SASSA on Monday.
“Postbank is encouraged to announce that we have achieved a significant milestone in our replacement of SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards. As of 10 March 2025, we successfully swapped over 1 million social grant beneficiaries from the SASSA gold card to the new improved and more compliant Postbank black cards,” Mbengashe said in an update on the replacement of SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards.
The two entities expressed appreciation to all grant beneficiaries that came forward in their numbers to replace their cards.
“Our heartfelt ‘thank you’ for your encouraging response, not forgetting thousands that are at our card replacement sites right now in all parts of the country to ensure that they also get their black cards …Thank you.
“To those that are yet to replace their SASSA gold cards, we encourage you to still head to a Postbank card replacement site to get your black cards,” the CEO said.
Postbank card replacement sites are located mainly in selected branches of major retailers that include Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, PicknPay, Boxer, Spar, and beneficiaries can dial *120*355# from a cellphone to look up a nearby site.
Beneficiaries require only a form of identification, which can be an RSA green barcoded ID, smart card ID, or temporary ID to do the swap. The cards are issued at no cost to the beneficiaries.
“For us as Postbank, reaching this milestone gives impetus to our commitment to ensure that all our gold card grant beneficiaries are issued with new cards,” Mbengashe said.
20 March 2025 deadline and what it means
The CEO reiterated that the SASSA gold cards will stop working on 20 March 2025 and no beneficiary would then be able to use their SASSA gold card to make any transaction, even if they have funds in their account.
“Beneficiaries would not be able to use SASSA gold cards to buy or withdraw cash inside stores. Retailers would not accept the cards for any transactions, and any attempts will result in automatic system transaction declines.
“Beneficiaries would also not be able to use SASSA gold cards at any ATM. The SASSA gold may be swallowed when inserted in any ATM to attempt a transaction,” she said.
She explained that any balance of funds that are available in the SASSA gold card when the cards stop working will be stored safely in each beneficiary’s bank account, and the funds will be accessible for withdrawal though the Post Office withdrawal process, the retailer’s cardless payment method if one is registered for it, or through the Postbank black card.
“Beneficiaries that would still be in possession of SASSA gold cards are strongly discouraged from attempting any transaction with the cards to avoid disappointment, even when they still have available funds,” she explained.
What the 20th March 2025 deadline does not mean
The CEO further explained that the 20 March 2025 is not a cut-off date for when Postbank stops replacing SASSA gold cards.
Postbank will continue replacing SASSA gold cards with new Postbank black cards in all its card replacement sites even after this date.
“Social grant beneficiaries may still replace their SASSA gold cards with Postbank black cards on, and after, 20th of March 2025.
“To prepare for the next grant payments that are scheduled for 3 to 5 April 2025, SASSA and Postbank encourage beneficiaries to make extra efforts to use the period between now and those payments dates to get their black cards,” Mbengashe said.
By doing that, she explained that beneficiaries will guarantee that their April 2025 grant payments are made with their cards.
She said Postbank will continue to swap the gold card until the end of June 2025.
“This is when we believe we should have swapped all beneficiaries that bank with Postbank. We, however, plead with all beneficiaries to please use the rest of the month of March and perhaps into early April 2025 to go get their new cards,” the CEO said.
How do I access my April Grant payment if I do not have a black card yet?
Postbank and SASSA have assured social grant beneficiaries and the public that the payments of social grants will not be interrupted. All social grant beneficiaries will continue to be paid, including all the social grant beneficiaries who have not been able to get their black cards.
“Starting from the next grant payments that are scheduled for 3 to 5 April 2025 and onwards, social grant beneficiaries that are yet to replace their gold cards with Postbank black cards, can go withdraw their grant at their nearest Post Office.
“There are currently 543 Post Office branches countrywide that we are working with. All that one will need to make this withdrawal is their ID (green barcoded ID, smart card ID, or temporary ID),” the CEO said.
Mbengashe said that the Post Office branch-based payments are a channel that many of the social grant beneficiaries have used before, and they are familiar with.
Beneficiaries are urged to note that the Post Office branch payments will be restricted to social grant beneficiaries that are yet to replace their SASSA gold cards, asylum seekers and Postbank green Mzansi/blue cards’ grant beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries who already have Postbank black cards are urged to use their card through ATMs and retailers to access their funds.
They are further urged to never try to collect their payments inside Post Office branches as they will not be provided with a service. Post Office branches will only provide cash withdrawals for those whose black cards are either lost or stolen.
“Social grant beneficiaries are also reminded that the Post Office payments are an interim measure, therefore they should use the time of this arrangement to make efforts to get their Postbank black cards. As mentioned, the replacement of SASSA gold cards will continue post 20 March 2025 in all the existing Postbank card replacement sites, and more sites are being added every day,” the CEO said.
Postbank and SASSA said they have taken these measures to ensure that there are no interruptions in the payments of social grants, and that beneficiaries that are yet to replace their SASSA gold cards continue to access their grants when the time for their cards to stop working arrives on 20 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 03/17/2025 - 14:48
328 views
SASSA’s Plans to Shorten Queues and Improve Grant Payment System
About 1.4-million people still need to replace their SASSA cards before the deadline on Thursday
Two More Lottery Officials Dismissed After Appeals Fail
Former acting chief operating officer and a Durban-based client liaison officer were summarily dismissed last year
The “Biggest Trout Farm in Africa” and the Failed R5,000 Community Fund
Lesotho Highlands aquaculture project offers little in return for its licence