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President Ramaphosa to Undertake Working Visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Wednesday, 23 April 2025, undertake a Working Visit to Maseru, Lesotho, to Co-Chair the Second Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the Republic of South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho, with His Excellency Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, Prime Minister of Lesotho. 

This South Africa–Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) follows the Inaugural Session which was held in September 2023 in Pretoria.

The elevation of bilateral cooperation to a BNC level in 2022 was a recognition of the solid foundation upon which relations between the two countries are founded.

Further, it is a practical demonstration of the two countries' resolve that cooperation in various sectors should benefit all.

South Africa will use the upcoming session of the BNC to promote greater solidarity among countries of the region and the South in the light of geopolitical shifts.

South Africa will also underscore the strategic importance of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) and highlight a need to expedite the speedy implementation of Phase II of the project, taking into consideration the agreed timelines and allocated budget. 

 Many South African companies have made significant investments in Lesotho, which have created thousands of jobs.

The Bi-National Commission is expected also to reflect on the movement of people between the two states.

This week's engagement between the two countries will, among other discussions, focus on:

  • Fostering stronger political and bilateral relations between the two countries;
  • Deepening economic cooperation; 
  • Reviewing implementation of the outcomes of the inaugural session of the BNC and identifying new priority areas; and
  • Exchanging views on regional, continental and global issues of mutual concern.

The BNC will be preceded by the Meeting of Senior Officials (SOM) and the Council of Ministers Meeting scheduled for 22 April 2025. 

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by 15 Ministers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa to Undertake Working Visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho

90-Day Blitz to Crush Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Launched

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)
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The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster Ministers and senior officials convened a special sitting on Monday, 14 April 2025, under the leadership of Cluster Co-Chairs, Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu.  

This urgent meeting was convened in response to the alarming surge in Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) incidents across the country.  It culminated in the adoption of a 90-day acceleration programme to intensify the national response and fast-track the implementation of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF.

Recognising the gravity of the crisis, the Cluster resolved to revitalise and urgently reconstitute the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on GBVF, with a formal request to the President for its re-establishment under the 7th Administration. The IMC's inaugural meeting is scheduled to take place within two weeks. It will serve as the central coordinating mechanism to expedite government interventions, resolve systemic bottlenecks, and ensure measurable progress.

A dedicated GBVF Priority Committee will also be established within the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), co-chaired by the Departments of Social Development and Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities. This structure aims to improve the coordination of frontline security and protection interventions.

Acknowledging the inadequacy of relying solely on the national government for local-level interventions, the Cluster directed the revitalisation of JCPS structures across all provinces. Provincial JCPS Committees, comprising security cluster executives and senior officials, will be established to drive targeted and localised implementation of GBVF interventions.  The Cluster further directed the activation of government machinery at the grassroots level, with a strong emphasis on community mobilisation and the involvement of local structures in the fight against GBVF.

To address inefficiencies within the criminal justice value chain, a team of senior officials has been tasked with aligning police, prosecutorial, and correctional services systems to eliminate delays in GBVF case processing. Departments have also been instructed to identify critical institutional gaps and propose actionable, time-bound measures. 

The meeting mandated the consolidation of GBVF-related statistics across the JCPS value chain, from arrest, prosecution, conviction to incarceration, into a single integrated report. This report, along with each department's intervention points, will be submitted to the IMC.

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has been instructed to coordinate a national webinar on GBVF, led by government experts, and to deliver targeted communication training to officials. The training will focus on ensuring message alignment and professional public engagement. The Cluster also resolved to prioritise the accelerated rollout of Thuthuzela Care Centres across all provinces to provide holistic, survivor-centred support services. 

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development was specifically tasked with urgently addressing the repair and maintenance of SOS systems in court facilities. This is aimed at enhancing safety for survivors and witnesses, especially minors, and ensuring the prevention of secondary victimisation.  Further, the meeting underscored the need to rebuild the social fabric of society, particularly the family unit, as a foundational step in the long-term prevention of GBVF.  Departments were directed to develop results-driven action plans with clear timelines, defined target communities, and measurable outcomes.

To strengthen the National Council on GBVF, departments will propose sustainable funding models and nominate board members at Deputy Director-General level or higher to reinforce institutional capacity.  The meeting further resolved to intensify training across the Cluster on the revised legislation, regulations, and guidelines for handling GBVF cases.   In addition, concern was raised about the growing number of children arrested for sexual offences, prompting a directive for NATJOINTS to develop an appropriate and urgent response to this emerging crisis.

Importantly, the Cluster affirmed the need to reclaim the national narrative on GBVF and broader security matters, ensuring that government, not external actors, leads public discourse on these issues.  This 90-day blitz marks not only a declaration of intent but the beginning of a coordinated, government-wide campaign to end GBVF. Implementation began immediately following the meeting, and the Co-Chairs emphasised that incremental change is no longer sufficient. 

Government enters this period with full force, calling on every organ of state and sector of society to play an active, decisive role in eradicating GBVF.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

Read more90-Day Blitz to Crush Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Launched

IR Committee Chairperson Welcomes Appointment of Mcebisi Jonas as US Envoy

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations, Mr Supra Mahumapelo, has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa's appointment of Mr Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States of America.

Mr Mahumapelo said an unfortunate distortion persists in the US about the real essence of the South African dispensation. “It is our hope that whilst the envoy will not immediately provide a complete solution to this problem, it will contribute to adding value as part of the broader efforts to help the US President, Mr Donald Trump, and his administration to understand the essence of South African democracy,” emphasised Mr Mahumapelo.

Mr Mahumapelo added that this government understanding will also then be conveyed to the rest of the US people and blacks Americans in particular. He said the committee will continue with reciprocative oversight with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation on this front.

The Presidency announced on Monday the appointment of Mr Jonas as a Special Envoy to the United States of America, serving as the official representative of the President and the government of the Republic of South Africa.

Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa's diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with US government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation's interests.

Mr Jonas has previously served as one of four presidential investment envoys, which were appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa. As a former Deputy Finance Minister, Mr Jonas brings extensive government experience to his new diplomatic role.

“We are looking forward with cautious optimism as the committee to the restoration of the healthy diplomatic relations between South Africa and the United States of America,” said Mr Mahumapelo.

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

Read moreIR Committee Chairperson Welcomes Appointment of Mcebisi Jonas as US Envoy

Egypt Selected to Host Inaugural IFAF African Flag Football Championships

Location: News

National Football League (NFL)
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  • Teams From Across Africa Will Feature in First-Ever IFAF Continental Championships in Region from June 20-21 
  • NFL Africa (www.NFL.com) to Host Football Development Events in Egypt Alongside IFAF Championships 

The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) is delighted to announce Egypt as the host nation for the inaugural 2025 IFAF African Flag Football Championships – AFRICA FLAG 2025. 

AFRICA FLAG 2025 will take place from June 20-21 in Cairo, Egypt, welcoming elite men's and women's national teams from across Africa for the first time at an IFAF Continental Championships.  As participation in flag football continues to grow rapidly throughout the continent, this inaugural event offers a pathway to qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships and represents a significant milestone on the journey towards flag football's historic Olympic debut at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028. 

"With the announcement of the first ever IFAF Continental Championships in Africa, we are taking another step in the global development of our sport,” said IFAF President Pierre Trochet. “Looking ahead to flag football's historic Olympic debut at LA28, our Continental Championships provide a fantastic platform to further accelerate the sport's regional growth at grassroots and elite levels. Egypt will be a great host, and we are certain AFRICA FLAG 2025 will play its part in inspiring new athletes and fans across a continent that has already produced a rich heritage of American football talent.” 

Hosted in partnership with the National Football League and Egyptian Federation of American Football (EFAF), various youth football development events will take place in Cairo in conjunction with the upcoming Championships — expanding the league's NFL Africa program to Egypt for the first time, creating more opportunities for young athletes from across the continent to play American football.  

In collaboration with IFAF and EFAF, U12 teams of boys and girls from Egypt, Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria will compete in a multi-day NFL Flag Continental Championship, facing off in the championship game on June 23. NFL Flag is the official flag football program of the NFL — working to bring the non-contact version of American football to young athletes worldwide.  

The NFL will also host a football talent identification event with prospects from across Africa. Athletes will showcase their skills and abilities with the potential to advance on through the NFL Academy Europe-Africa program in Loughborough, U.K. or the International Player Pathway (IPP) program — two core pillars of the NFL's global football development initiatives.  

A number of current NFL players will join these events in Egypt, including New York Giants' Bobby Okereke (Nigeria), Minnesota Vikings' Brian Asamoah II (Ghana) and NFL free agent Dieter Eiselen (South Africa). Okereke, Asamoah II and Eiselen are supporting football operations for national federations in the lead up to and during the Championships, as well as NFL Africa's youth football programming.  

“I'm excited and inspired to lead the NFL's efforts in Africa and to again expand our programming to a fifth country: Egypt — an innovative market for sport, with incredible talent,” said two-time Super Bowl Champion and NFL Africa Lead Osi Umenyiora. “Back-to-back days of NFL Africa events alongside the IFAF Continental Championships in Egypt helps showcase the aspirational pathways for talented young athletes across the continent, as we look ahead together to flag football in the LA Olympic Games in 2028. It will be a great weekend of football, and one that will create a powerful legacy as we introduce more and more young athletes to our game.”  

AFRICA FLAG 2025 will reinforce the acceleration of flag football's growth across the continent. At the record-breaking 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championships, Cameroon made history as the first African nation to compete on the global stage. Since 2023 participation in flag football has surged with Egypt and Nigeria seeing increases of 149% and 85%, respectively. In Nigeria, the national federation's outreach program has already engaged more than 13,000 young people, highlighting the sport's expanding reach and appeal. 

IFAF and the NFL are working hand-in-hand to develop and grow flag football across the continent, collaborating to create meaningful educational pathways for coaches and officials delivering flag across Africa. This commitment was reaffirmed at the recent three-day flag football coach education and officiating clinic in Ghana (April 11-13). The clinic welcomed new and experienced coaches and officials from 10 African countries — Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia and Uganda — enabling further long-term engagement and participation in the sport in the region. 

As part of the NFL Africa program, the league has also undertaken NFL Flag development, talent identification camps and fan events across Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and Nigeria since 2022.  

“We are extremely proud to be hosting the first ever AFRICA FLAG 2025 in Cairo and to be writing Egypt into flag football's history books,” said EFAF Founder Ali Rafeek. “Hosting this tournament allows us to put a spotlight on our talented athletes and to show the next generation what's possible in this sport — whether you're picking up a football for the first time or dreaming of the Olympics.” 

“AFRICA FLAG 2025 is a huge moment for the continued growth of flag football across our continent,” said Egyptian Women's National Team Quarterback Amira Nader. “It's an opportunity to showcase the incredible talent and passion rising throughout Africa and take a meaningful step towards making history at LA28. As the first-ever Continental Championships, this event will inspire the next generation to pick up a football and believe anything is possible.” 

IFAF continues to reinforce structured and competitive pathways for flag football, with the Continental Championships as an important stepping stone in the journey towards the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships. The record-breaking 2024 edition of the IFAF Flag Football World Championships was the culmination of IFAF's biggest-ever international cycle of flag football competition and brought together elite athletes representing 31 nations from five continents at the most competitive and thrilling tournament to date. Flag football is played by 20 million athletes in more than 100 countries, and with an ever-expanding African presence, these events will serve as key milestones on the road to LA28. 

Details regarding AFRICA FLAG 2025's participating nations as well as the 2025 Continental Championships for other regions will be announced in the coming weeks, offering teams from around the world more opportunities to compete and prepare for the journey toward LA28. 

For more details on the Championships, visit the IFAF website (https://apo-opa.co/42LiURK) or follow us on social media. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Football League (NFL).

For more information on NFL Flag, the official flag football program of the NFL, visit here (https://apo-opa.co/3G70ylD). 

For the latest NFL Africa activity, follow @ NFLAfrica on:
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/43VmZnx
X: https://apo-opa.co/43QGKN7

About IFAF:     
The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) (https://apo-opa.co/42LiURK) is the international governing body for the sport of American football and is responsible for all regulatory, competition, performance and development aspects of the game on a global level. Fully recognised by the International Olympic Committee and a signatory to the WADA Code, IFAF has 75 member nations across 5 continents.     

About the National Football League:  
The National Football League is America's most popular sports league, comprised of 32 franchises that compete each year to win the Super Bowl, the world's biggest annual sporting event. Founded in 1920, the NFL developed the model for the successful modern sports league, including national and international distribution, extensive revenue sharing, competitive excellence, and strong franchises across the country.  

Read moreEgypt Selected to Host Inaugural IFAF African Flag Football Championships

President Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States

Location: News

President Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former Deputy Finance Minister, Mcebisi Jonas, as his Special Envoy to the United States.

In his new role, Jonas will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of South Africa.

“In this capacity, Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa’s diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities. He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with US government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Monday. 

The Head of State described Jonas as an eminent South African leader, who served as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys that he appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa. 

“As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. Concurrently, he holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as my Special Envoy,” the President said. 

In addition, the President believes that this appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests.

“For decades, South Africa and the United States of America have maintained a historical and strategic relationship. In the interest of our country, our region and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades based on mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty and benefit for our respective peoples,” he added. 

Meanwhile, a delegation of senior officials, led by South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Sherpa and the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Zane Dangor, recently met with United States officials to clarify the country’s expropriation and equity laws.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with their counterparts in Washington, including senior officials at the White House and the State Department, to address key bilateral priorities. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 12:06
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Read morePresident Ramaphosa appoints Mcebisi Jonas as Special Envoy to the United States

Consumer Commission and PSETA partnership set to enhance skills development

Location: News

Consumer Commission and PSETA partnership set to enhance skills development

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) have entered into a strategic partnership to collaborate on skills development and research on emerging issues.

This was done through a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). 

“As part of the MoU, PSETA can place its graduates at the NCC, significantly contributing to the NCC's work. In turn, through its internship programme, which these graduates will join, the NCC will help ensure that the programme aligns with the skills demanded by the workplace. This will ensure that the graduates are well-trained and ready for the industry by the end of their training,” a joint statement by the NCC and PSETA said on Saturday.

PSETA’s focus is primarily on transversal skills within the Public Service sector. These skills, dubbed the ‘business of government’, include administration, management, planning, legislation and policy development.
They form the focus to drive the growth of skills and competencies in areas that will make the delivery of the business of government.

The PSETA is a statutory body entrusted with driving skills development across the public sector. As an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the primary role of the NCC is to protect the interests of consumers and ensure accessible, transparent and efficient redress for consumers. 

“As mandated by the Skills Development Act and aligned with the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) 2030, PSETA plays a critical role in shaping a professional, ethical, and capable public service workforce.

“As a trusted Authority, PSETA is committed to driving impactful, inclusive, and sustainable skills development that strengthens institutional capacity and supports service delivery excellence across the public sector,” the statement said.

The MoU, among other things, aims to achieve the following:

•    Identify priority research areas, including research to support the Public Service, in line with both parties’ research agendas and the PSETA’s Sector Skills Plan (SSP) priorities;
•    Facilitate cooperation and support on the development of capacity and capabilities for members and officials of the Public Service and unemployed learners, aligned to the PSETA SSP priorities, the National Development Plan, the National Skills Development Plan priorities and the Public Service;
•    Human Resource Development Strategy;
•    Facilitation and regular sharing of information on matters mutually relevant to the Parties;
•    Encourage the maximised usage of shared resources; and
•    Setting out the parameters for cooperation and support under the objectives of the MoU.

-SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:01

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Read moreConsumer Commission and PSETA partnership set to enhance skills development

Security strengthened at Wynberg court following shooting

Location: News

Security strengthened at Wynberg court following shooting

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has ordered that security be strengthened at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, in Cape Town, following a fatal shooting inside the court building earlier this week.

A high-level delegation, led by DJCOD Director-General, Advocate Doc Mashabane, conducted an oversight visit to the court on Thursday.

The delegation also included Acting Secretary-General in the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ), Advocate Marelize Potgieter, and the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape, Advocate Nicolette Bell.

“The purpose of the visit was to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether any security lapses had occurred. This intervention formed part of government’s response, with the objective of reviewing and strengthening security protocols at court facilities," the department said in a statement.

As part of immediate interventions, the Director-General has directed the installation of a security scanner, the tightening of access control to prosecutors' and magistrates' offices, and the enhanced vetting of court officials.

Furthermore, a report on the incident will be drawn up and submitted to DJCOD Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi and Chief Justice, Mandisa Maya.

“The department reiterates its commitment to ensuring that courts remain places for the dispensation of justice and not places where crime is committed,” the department said.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) said it views the incident in a “serious light”.

“The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, under whose delegation the Security of the Court falls, has been engaged on the enhancement of security in and around the court precinct.

“As the Head of the Judiciary in the Province, the Judge President of the Western Cape Division of the High Court wishes to convey condolences to the family of the deceased, and expresses regret and support to the Judicial Officers, officials and the public who witnessed the incident,” the OCJ said.

The incident is currently under police investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 04/11/2025 - 09:35
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Read moreSecurity strengthened at Wynberg court following shooting

Technology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Location: News

Technology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Four advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones and 40 body-worn cameras will be deployed for the first time at the country’s ports of entry over the coming Easter long weekend.

The drones are equipped with some of the most advanced night vision cameras in the world, including thermal detection technology.

Powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the devices are able to recognise and lock onto heat sources, moving people, or vehicles. They can also travel at speeds up to 43 kilometres per hour and are capable of operating in remote rural areas without access to GPS and even underground.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the launch of technology marks the biggest step forward for enhancing border security and management.

“Data shows that when we first trialled the use of drones over the festive season, the number of attempted illegal crossings that were successfully prevented, increased by 215%,” said the Minister.

WATCH | 

He added that the Border Management Authority (BMA) will now permanently deploy this cutting-edge technology on a fulltime basis.

“Our message to would-be illegal immigrants and smugglers is clear. We are now watching the borderline during the day, we are watching at night, we can see your body heat wherever you try to hide, and we will catch you. 

“As we roll out more and more cutting-edge technology, there are fewer and fewer places to hide for criminals who undermine our national security,” he said.

Schreiber explained that the cameras will be fitted to officials working in the port environment to detect and punish acts of corruption, while also monitoring the efficiency of officials.

“Importantly, the cameras are linked to a dedicated Digital Evidence Management System which ensures that all footage is admissible in court to ensure successful convictions.”

BMA Commissioner Dr Micheal Masiapato said the 2025 Easter Operation follows the successfully implemented 2024/25 Festive Season Plan which saw a steady increase of 5 084 251 travellers processed across 71 ports of entry.

“This plan builds on the successes and lessons learned from our previous operations, ensuring the advancement of robust mechanisms for safe and secure travel,” Masiapato said.

Heightened operations

Speaking at the media briefing in Pretoria, the Commissioner said that through the assistance of drone technology, previous deployments in the December-January operations were responsive and reactional to illegal movements.

“The increase in festive season movements prompted the BMA to officially begin with the Easter Planning Phase on the 1st of February 2025 through to the 14th of April 2025. 

“The Execution phase of the BMA’s Easter Operational Plan will run for a period of 10 days starting from the 15th to the 24th of April 2025, during which period deployments and intensified border operations will be heightened.
“We are here to serve the citizens of the country to deter any illegality at our ports of entry and border law enforcement area without fear or favour,” he said.

Masiapato said the Easter period is traditionally characterised by a significant spike in the movement of people and goods across the country’s ports, placing increased demand on the BMA to maintain optimal operational readiness.

“During this period, families travel for religious observances, holidays, and cultural gatherings, while traders and transporters increase activity in preparation for the long Easter weekend. 

“With the expected increase in attendance from the Zion Christian Church in Limpopo, more travellers are expected to move from our neighbouring countries into South Africa. These heightened activities bring both opportunities and risks, requiring a concerted and integrated operational response,” he said.

The BMA is undertaking training to equip eight officers to become expert drone pilots. They will operate the devices on a shift basis and will move around different ports in the country. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Thu, 04/10/2025 - 12:39
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Read moreTechnology to aid SA’s border management efforts  

Collaborative efforts key to tackling global challenges, KZN Premier

Location: News

Collaborative efforts key to tackling global challenges, KZN Premier

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to driving inclusive, equitable, and sustainable economic growth.

Delivering his keynote address at the opening of G20 2nd Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting, Ntuli emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle persistent global challenges, such as gender inequality in the workplace and widening labour income disparities.

Held from 8 to 11 April 2025, the meeting is focused on advancing gender equality in the workforce and addressing the growing gap in the labour income share, aligning with South Africa's G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability."

“This platform offers us a chance to collectively reflect and develop progressive labour market policies that respond to the realities faced by women, youth, and vulnerable workers across both developed and developing economies,” Ntuli said.

The Premier stressed that meaningful transformation requires international solidarity and shared responsibility, highlighting that collaborative policymaking is essential for a fairer global labour market.

He also highlighted that KwaZulu-Natal is actively pursuing economic policies that centre people and planet, in line with global calls for just and inclusive transitions.

He outlined provincial initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment, improve women’s participation in economic activity, and ensuring sustainable, inclusive growth.

“As a province, we are committed to building a future of dignity, fairness, and equal opportunity. The EWG’s focus on gender equity and income justice could not be more relevant or urgent,” he said.

The EWG meeting brings together senior officials and technical experts from G20 member states to shape policy approaches, ahead of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place later this year.

The key issues under discussion include, enhancing social protection systems, reducing gender and wage gaps, and ensuring equal access to decent work for all.

The G20, which includes 19 of the world’s largest economies along with the African Union and the European Union, represents approximately:
• 85% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
• Over 75% of international trade,
• And two-thirds of the world’s population.

The meeting is taking place at the Arch Convention Centre, in Umhlanga, north of Durban. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Thu, 04/10/2025 - 13:20
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Read moreCollaborative efforts key to tackling global challenges, KZN Premier

Systematic failures responsible George building collapse

Location: News

Systematic failures responsible George building collapse

An independent forensic investigation into the building collapse in George, in the Western Cape, has revealed systemic failures at multiple levels.

The report cites widespread non-compliance with regulatory standards and mismanagement by both the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC) and project personnel as key causes of the incident.

The findings, presented by Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane during a media briefing in Pretoria on Wednesday, revealed a series of procedural and structural failures, including irregular project enrolment, inspection lapses, poor material quality, and violations of occupational health and safety (OHS) protocols.

The NHBRC initiated the investigation after the Neo Victoria project collapsed on 6 May 2024, killing 34 people and injuring many others. Several survivors are still recovering.

Homebuilder certification and grading process

The investigation uncovered serious irregularities in the registration process of the construction company. The firm misrepresented its capabilities and failed to disclose that it intended to construct a multi-storey building.

“This omission breached NHBRC’s policies, which require transparency regarding a home builder's intended project scope in technical capacity. By bypassing this rigorous process, a company in question compromised its registration and certification of the project,” Simelane said.

Enrolment certification irregularities

The enrolment process demonstrated significant non-compliance with the NHBRC's enrolment procedures, resulting in critical regulatory breaches and unauthorised approvals.

“The enrolment forms were processed on 11 July 2023 even though the construction start date was scheduled for 19 June 2023. Again, the official did not verify that a homebuilder was registered to construct despite the building plans showing that this was indeed a multistorey enrolment.

“Thus, a contractor was allowed to proceed with the construction of a multi-storey building without the proper enrolment. Even more disturbing was the unlawful use of other official’s credentials to enrol the first phase of the project. This demonstrated the breakdown in the NHBRC’s internal control system,” the Minister highlighted.

Deficient inspection model

The NHBRC inspections failed to meet internal protocols, and these included one inspection, which was conducted eight days after enrolment, exceeding the five-day window period, in line with the NHBRC’s inspection protocol.

“More worrying was that the inspection reports included units which were yet to be constructed.” the Minister noted.

Occupational health and safety adherence

The report revealed multiple OHS breaches, including unresolved safety concerns, the resignation of a safety consultant, and the complete absence of OHS enforcement protocols in NHBRC’s procedures.

Inspectors were not empowered to enforce safety compliance, leaving serious safety violations unaddressed. The investigation also revealed that several personnel performing critical tasks lacked qualifications in engineering or quantity surveying.

Significant shortcomings were found in the evaluation of the appointed technical manager, whose credentials were not adequately reassessed.

According to the report, this played a major role in the technical missteps observed during the construction.

The geotechnical report provided did not include crucial information, such as trial pit locations, Dynamic Cone Penetrometer (DCP) test results, and geological maps. This information is essential for foundation design and site preparation.

Additionally, George Municipality approved the building plans after construction had already begun.

Recommendations

To prevent future incidents, the report issued comprehensive recommendations for reform within the NHBRC and the broader construction oversight framework.

These include clearly specifying the type of buildings a homebuilder is certified to construct on NHBRC registration certificates; establishing a peer review team to independently assess high-risk projects such as multi-storey buildings; conducting a comprehensive competency skills audit of inspectors and develops a thorough due diligence process to evaluate all information submitted during the registration phase.

“The report went further to recommend that technical managers be full-time onsite during critical stages of construction, that inspection be conducted within five days and that NHBRC staff must not be allowed to use another staff member’s login credentials.

“The outcome of the investigation has also made recommendations that implicated officials be held accountable for their actions. 

“The charges that will be levelled against them include dereliction of duty, misconduct, negligence, dishonesty, and misrepresentation in official inspection reports. We will continue to monitor that this is done by following due process,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 04/10/2025 - 11:29
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Home Affairs dismisses six officials for fraud, corruption

Location: News

Home Affairs dismisses six officials for fraud, corruption

The Department of Home Affairs has today dismissed six officials with immediate effect for a range of offences, including fraud and corruption. 

Another six officials were issued with final written warnings. 

This brings to 33 the total number of officials dismissed since July 2024, as the department intensifies its clean-up campaign.

Eight officials have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to 18 years, while the criminal prosecution of another 19 officials is underway.

The latest dismissals follow from the recent launch of the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum, which has further strengthened coordination between Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority (BMA), Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

“The speed at which Home Affairs, in collaboration with the SIU, is clearing out corruption from our midst demonstrates that swift progress can be made in the fight against this scourge. I have made it clear to the Department that delays will not be tolerated and that we will not rest until every last corrupt official has been fired,” Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said.

“I applaud the interdepartmental teams for their progress in ensuring that we wash the stain of corruption and state capture off of Home Affairs, so that it becomes the proud institution our country deserves. 

“My message to remaining perpetrators is clear: it is only a matter of time before we catch you and hold you accountable,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 04/08/2025 - 14:47
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Read moreHome Affairs dismisses six officials for fraud, corruption

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality announces new appointments

Location: News

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality announces new appointments

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has commended the appointment of two senior managers who have been placed in acting roles for the next six months.

"We welcome these appointments. We will hit the ground running to fast-track service delivery issues, prioritise the flood related infrastructure interventions in Kariega and other affected areas,” Lobishe said of the appointments in the Eastern Cape based municipality.

This as on Tuesday, the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Zolile Williams confirmed the appointment of Ted Pillay as the Acting City Manager and Lonwabo Ngoqo as the acting Chief Operating Officer (COO).

These appointments materialise following a request by the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Council and the Executive Mayor, for a section 154 intervention through COGTA and the MEC by appointing an Acting City Manager and a COO.

The appointments come after a request from the municipality’s council and Executive Mayor for a Section 154 intervention through COGTA, aimed at strengthening the municipality's administrative and governance capacity.

Section 154 of the South African Constitution requires the national and provincial governments to support and strengthen the capacity of municipalities to perform their functions.

Speaking at a recent press conference, Lobishe said the appointments come at a time when the municipality is working around the clock to accelerate service delivery.

"We thank MEC Williams for the interventions to address service delivery challenges. We are looking forward to work with this team of experienced senior officials,” Lobishe said.

On the status of the current City Manager, Mayor Lobishe confirmed that negotiations are ongoing with Dr. Noxolo Nqwazi, who is currently on suspension, regarding the terms of her contract termination.

The municipality aims to the resolve the matter with the incumbent City Manager over the next six months.

The MEC said the interventions are based on the request that the Council has made for the specific appointments.

The acting appointments took effect from 1 April 2025.
– SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Fri, 04/04/2025 - 07:18
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Read moreNelson Mandela Bay Municipality announces new appointments

Macpherson welcomes IDT board appointments 

Location: News

Macpherson welcomes IDT board appointments 

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson has welcomed the appointment of five new trustees to the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

“The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, welcomes the Master of the High Court’s appointment of five new trustees to the Independent Development Trust. The Minister has consequently written to the IDT board, now fully quorate for the first time in a year and a half, urging members to convene urgently to elect a chairperson among themselves to ensure optimal functioning of the agency,” said the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) in a statement on Wednesday.

The five newly appointed members to the board are Zimbini Hill, Jeffrey Mahachi, Raymond Nnaemeka Nkado, Nangamso Msuthukazi Matebese, and Bella Zoleka Mnanzana. 

They join Matodzi Ratshimbilani and Derek Naidoo, whom the Minister previously appointed as his representatives to the board, as well as Mpilo Mbambisa, Lufuno Nevondwe, Karabo Siyila, and Prudence Mkhwanazi, who previously served on the board. 

Macpherson said there has been allegations of corruption and governance issues at the IDT. The IDT is a Schedule 2 state-owned entity which manages the implementation and delivery of critically needed social infrastructure programmes on behalf of the government. 

“Officials and I have worked tirelessly since then to uncover the truth and restore governance stability after months of the board operating without a quorum,” Macpherson said.

He also expressed his good wishes to the board “as they embark on the critical task of cleaning up the agency and restoring the IDT to its rightful position in delivering social infrastructure.”

He is also looking forward to the swift conclusion of the PwC independent investigation to ensure accountability, including potential criminal prosecution, where necessary. The investigation is around the circumstances of the awarding of a controversial R800 million Oxygen Plant tender awarded by the IDT.

READ | Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender

“The IDT has a crucial role in transforming South Africa into a construction site, thereby driving economic growth and, importantly, creating jobs. It is through the transparency and accountability that we have introduced at the department that we will be able to enhance service delivery and build a better South Africa,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 10:09
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Read moreMacpherson welcomes IDT board appointments