Sharpeville: “These Politicians Just Come and Create a Spectacle”
Residents say Human Rights Day means little in their township
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Herd of Life-Sized Animal Puppets to Travel Through Central Africa to Norway
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Namibia Unveils Offshore Drilling Plans
Namibia's offshore oil and gas industry is set for significant growth in 2025, driven by new licensing opportunities and an uptick in drilling activities, Petroleum Commissioner Maggy Shino announced during a webinar hosted by the African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org), Wood Mackenzie and Namibia's Ministry of Mines and Energy. The move is set to attract fresh investment as the country cements its status as one of the world's most promising oil frontiers.
“We are operating in an open licensing regime and will be receiving applications shortly,” Shino stated, noting that available acreage spans deepwater, ultra-deepwater and shallow-water environments.
Meanwhile, development is accelerating on two of Namibia's most significant discoveries. TotalEnergies' Venus project in Block 2913B remains on track for a final investment decision (FID) in 2026, with new data confirming better density and permeability compared to surrounding blocks. On Galp's Mopane discovery, Shino revealed that 3,500Km2 of high-density seismic data were collected this week to refine volume estimates and advance the project toward FID.
On Shell's PEL 39 discovery – where the company recently wrote down $400 million – the Commissioner said Shell and its partners are analyzing data from the nine wells drilled so far to “ensure we have designed a pathway to development” and to determine the next steps.
Namibia's offshore basin remains vastly underexplored, despite its enormous scale. “The scale is enormous – there's 220,000 square kilometers of offshore license acreage,” said Ian Thom, Research Director for Sub-Saharan Africa Upstream at Wood Mackenzie. “With just over 20 exploration and appraisal wells drilled, this area is still hugely underexplored.”
“The resources are definitely there,” said Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President of the African Energy Chamber. “The big questions now revolve around sub-surface conditions, gas content and how best to commercialize these discoveries.”
Drilling activity in Namibia is set to ramp up in 2025, with seven wells expected this year alone. BW Energy plans to drill at the Kharas prospect within the Kudu license, while Rhino Resources awaits results from two high-impact wells in PEL 85. In South Africa's Orange Basin, TotalEnergies is expected to drill in Block 3B/4B, and Shell may drill in an ultra-deepwater block near the maritime boundary with Namibia.
On the Kudu license, Shino stated that BW Energy has “identified new targets with upside potential – not only for gas, but also for oil within the main area,” with two wells planned by year-end.
As Namibia advances toward first oil production, the government is committed to ensuring that petroleum discoveries translate into long-term economic benefits for the nation. “We are offering a sustainable operating environment, ensuring all discoveries are in a race to first oil while making a lasting impact on the local economy,” said Shino. Namibia's stable economy, industry alignment, respect for contract sanctity, expansive basins available for exploration and commitment to delivering sustainable energy resources position it as an attractive destination for investment.
Namibia's exploration boom and available licensing opportunities will take center stage at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, where government leaders, industry executives and investors will discuss the latest developments firsthand. With major discoveries advancing toward production and new blocks opening for investment, AEW offers unparalleled access to key decision-makers shaping Namibia's energy future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
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Judge says former NLC chief risk officer Marubini Ramatsekisa didn’t explain how he could live at an expensive golf estate while claiming to be unemployed
President takes ‘dim view’ on US visit seeking Cape secession
President takes 'dim view' on US visit seeking Cape secession
President Cyril Ramaphosa takes a “very strong dim view” of a proposed visit to the United States of America by the Cape Independence Advocacy Group to seek the Western Cape’s secession from South Africa.
This according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who addressed the media on Thursday morning.
“Our constitutional democracy that we forged in 1994, created a singular, non-racial state that recognises and protects our unity in diversity. From Musina to Cape Town, we are one democratic society that should never be allowed to fall under the chasm of race divide.
“There is no part of our beautiful land that can be allowed to secede. The President cautions everyone to exercise his or her Constitutionally given right, but to do so in the manner that does not undermine and subvert Constitutional democracy in South Africa.
“We should all be actively engaged in building a better South Africa in the face of unpredictable geo-political dynamics,” Magwenya said.
Turbulent times
Of late, South Africa has grappled with tensions with the United States of America, following the promulgation of the Expropriation Act of 2025 and, more recently, the expulsion of South African Ambassador to the USA, Ebrahim Rasool.
Magwenya explained that the Expropriation Act of 2025 replaces the Apartheid government’s 1975 Expropriation Act to align it to the country’s “land reform policies in line with our democratic Constitutional order”.
“The new Act introduces a transparent expropriation basis that strikes a healthy balance on land reform with legal protections. The Expropriation Act followed all legal prescribed channels to be enacted into law.
“Therefore, it leaves one to wonder what wrong have we done as a country with respect to this particular Act. We remain a rule of law society, and we adhere unwaveringly to the principles of our Constitutional democracy.
“We strongly reject any insinuation or assertion that through the Expropriation Act, we are committing acts of human rights violations, we are arbitrarily expropriating land,” Magwenya said.
On the return of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, Magwenya said government urges all political formations planning homecoming rallies for the ambassador to “refrain from partaking or engaging in actions that may seem inflammatory” and that may “worsen the already volatile diplomatic relationship with the United States”. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:54
265 views
Motorists urged to obey rules of the road ahead of long weekend
Motorists urged to obey rules of the road ahead of long weekend
The Western Cape Government (WCG) has urged all motorists to prioritise road safety by adhering to speed limits, as many prepare to travel during the upcoming long weekend.
From 10 and 16 March 2025, Western Cape law enforcement officers issued 200 speeding fines across the province, with the highest recorded speed being 160 km/h in a 120 km/h zone.
“Excessive speeding continues to be one of the most significant contributors to road crashes, injuries and fatalities,” the WCG said in a statement.
At high speeds, the provincial government warned that drivers have less time to respond to sudden obstacles, traffic changes, or emergencies.
The WCG reminded motorists that excessive speed makes it more difficult to navigate turns, avoid obstacles, and keep a vehicle stable. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, are often at the greatest risk when motorists speed excessively.
“Speeding not only increases the likelihood of incidents but also reduces reaction time, making it more difficult to avoid hazards. The faster a vehicle travels, the greater the force of impact in a collision, leading to often devastating consequences,” said Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku.
The MEC said serious injuries involving pedestrians and reckless or negligent driving continue to take a significant toll on the province.
“Every motorist has a responsibility to help keep our roads safe. We urge all drivers to remain mindful of their speed, drive responsibly, and make safety a priority – not just during the long weekend, but every time they get behind the wheel,” Sileku said.
The WCG has wished travellers a safe journey and appealed to motorists to be considerate and careful as they make their way to their destinations and back safely home.
To ensure a safe and incident-free long weekend, motorists are advised to:
• Stick to the prescribed speed limits at all times. Speeding is not worth the risk.
• Allow enough time to reach your destination, without the need to rush, or accept that you will arrive later than planned at your destination.
• Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.
• Stay focused on the road and avoid using mobile phones, or engaging in other distractions while driving.
• Ensure everyone is buckled up. This will significantly reduce the chances of serious injury.
• Fatigue impairs judgement and reaction time, stop and rest every two hours or 200km during long trips.
• Reduce speed when visibility is poor or in heavy traffic conditions. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 13:30
186 views
Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes
Government adopts improved approach to curb road crashes
Over the last two months, government has adopted an improved approach to managing road safety and it has resulted in a decrease in road crashes.
“The consequence of these actions is that we saw a 10% month-on-month decline in accidents in January 2025 compared with January 2024, and a 25% decline in accidents when one compares February 2025 with February 2024,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, said on Thursday.
As part of this strategy, the Department of Transport has deployed the National Traffic Police on key routes at month end, deepened cooperation and focused on high-risk areas amongst national, provincial and municipal traffic officers. It also focuses on arresting pedestrians who walk on highways.
During this period 21 282 fines were issued to drivers for speeding, and over 3 000 drivers were arrested for drunk driving during January and February. About 12 000 illegal vehicles were impounded.
The Minister was speaking during the launch of the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign, that is taking place from 20 March to 2 May 2025, under the theme: “It begins with Me”.
“We chose this theme because driver and pedestrian behaviour is responsible for 87% of road accidents and fatalities in our country. And so, reducing road fatalities and accidents is the responsibility of each one of us.
“The National Traffic Police, [including] South African Police Services provincial traffic departments, Cross Border Road Traffic Agency, Border Management Agency, the metros and local authorities, will work together to patrol routes leading to Limpopo, KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Free State, Eastern Cape and Western Cape. High visibility will also be maintained in Gauteng.
“We have identified the most critical routes across the country requiring additional resources and more focused monitoring over this period,” she said.
These include among others, the following:
- The N4 Nelspruit;
- Mankweng (R71);
- Libode on the N2, Mthatha’s R61;
- Parys (FS), R54;
- Harrismith and the N3;
- KwaDukuza, N2 in KZN and
- N4 Middleburg in Mpumalanga.
Over the next six weeks the department will focus on working with the bus industry to check vehicle roadworthiness and educate drivers on fatigue management ahead of the Easer weekend.
Meetings will also be held with faith-based sector to support safe and appropriate travel arrangements to the big events over the Easter weekend. Taxi ranks will be visited to inspect vehicles and safer driving practices will be promoted. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 14:09
121 views
One Vaal Dam sluice gate opened
One Vaal Dam sluice gate opened
The Department and Water and Sanitation opened one sluice gate at the Vaal Dam on Thursday to increase outflows and manage dam water levels.
In a statement on Thursday, the department said one sluice gate of the Vaal Dam opened at 12pm, in order to increase releases, due to the increased water levels at the dam amid continuous rainfall.
The dam, which supplies most of Gauteng, is currently sitting at 106.14%.
The department said the increased outflows seek to keep the dam at 105%.
“The opened sluice gate is expected to release between 110 to 130 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) and will remain open over the long weekend and dam levels continue to be closely monitored to ensure that any further action is activated depending on the level of water in the dam.
“All outlet valves that were previously opened and were releasing 60.1 cubic metres per second (mᵌ/s) of water at the Vaal Dam, have now been closed because they do not have the required capacity to release the required volumes,” the department said.
The department emphasised that the current water release by single sluice gate is within the safe operational limits and is not expected to lead to overtopping of riverbanks downstream.
“At Bloemhof Dam, outflows have also been increased to 250 mᵌ/s from 10 am today through the pipes and to allow for the extra flows that are expected from Vaal Dam in about three to four days and to keep the dam below 100%. Water levels at the dam are currently at 97.6%,” the department said.
The department added it will continue to monitor the water levels at both the dams closely. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 14:13
75 views
Nelson Mandela Bay sails to cruise industry growth
Nelson Mandela Bay sails to cruise industry growth
The strong working relationship between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) and local tour guides and operators, has proven to be the key driving force for the booming cruise tourism industry within the city.
According to the Tourist Guide Association of Mandela Bay (TGAMB), which represents the tour guides and operators within Nelson Mandela Bay, the industry has seen drastic growth post-COVID-19, due to the ongoing good working relationship with the municipality.
Luxolo Kanti confirmed that huge strides have been made within the tourism industry, with the "cruise industry as the catalyst and gateway” to the region’s broader tourism growth.
Kanti noted that the association, working with the municipality to rebuild the cruise industry, has seen more diversity and inclusiveness.
“A lot of emerging tour guides and operators have managed to get into the industry and thrive. Through a number of training programmes and workshops we have received on areas like Digital Marketing, Tourism Best Practice and Packaging of Cruise Tourism in South Africa, we have managed to acquire skills to market both the city and our businesses to attract more people to venture into the cruise tourism experience across the world,” he said.
Kanti also commended the municipality’s openness to the industry’s advice and contributions in policy development.
"In as much as we have made strides, there are still areas we need to improve on, both as the industry and the municipality, so that we can be competitive against other major cities.”
Successes
Highlighting the success of the current cruise season, NMBM mayor, Babalwa Lobishe said Nelson Mandela Bay has already received 34 cruise vessels which docked at the city’s ports, from the 45 scheduled for the season which started in November last year.
“In March alone, there has been seven cruise vessel dock-ins and five overnight stays, with three vessels still expected for this month. During the current cruise season, there will be 15 cruise vessels that will stay for more than one day. The cruise vessels for this season are expected to spend a combined total of 61 days,” Lobishe said.
The mayor also announced that the current cruise season is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the region, with a forecasted R100 million in economic spin-offs, an increase from R85 million during the 2023/24 season.
“This forecast is based on the anticipated 50 000 passengers who will be spending on tours, dining, shopping, and other cultural and heritage experiences across Nelson Mandela Bay. This influx of visitors will not only boost our local economy but also showcase the rich diversity and vibrant culture of our city,” the mayor said.
Appeal
In line with the city’s Tourism Master Plan, several initiatives are being pursued to enhance the region’s tourism appeal. These include the development of new cultural and heritage routes, the promotion of township tourism through community forums, and the expansion of events strategies aimed at attracting international visitors.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture, Bassie Kamana, emphasised the municipality’s commitment to ensuring that the city remains a top destination for tourists and a thriving community for the residents.
According to Kamana, part of the work that the NMBM Tourism Sub-Directorate is doing is to create a conducive environment for the cruise industry to optimise on regional economic opportunities.
“Working with the vast tourism industry stakeholders, the metro encourages passengers to explore the full breadth of the region, including private game reserves, cultural and heritage sites, and local businesses.
“This is done to make sure that passengers do not just sleep over in the metro, but spend funds, explore and experience the region’s tourist attractions and create unforgettable memories,” Kamana said.
The MMC added that working with its development entity Mandela Bay Development Agency, Transnet, Eastern Cape Tourism, and other stakeholders, it has made strategic infrastructure investments to improve port facilities, tourism products and heritage sites. This is so as to ensure a seamless and welcoming experience for cruise tourists.
The NMBM has also paid special attention to tourist safety and hospitality by training and recruiting youth with a tourism background to work as tourism ambassadors. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:53
92 views
Human Rights Festival celebrates liberation heroes
Human Rights Festival celebrates liberation heroes
Constitution Hill will this weekend host one of Gauteng’s key events – the 2025 Human Rights Festival from 20 to 23 March 2025.
“Celebrating it’s 7th year, the event invites the public to commemorate South Africa’s Human Rights Day and celebrate the memory of those liberation heroes who took a stand for human rights in the Sharpeville 1960 massacre.
“The festival aims to build greater awareness and knowledge around human rights and to promote the importance of an active citizenry,” said Constitution Hill in a statement.
This as South Africa marks Human Rights Day on 21 March 2025. Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, deliver the keynote address at the commemoration event scheduled to take place at the Derrick Ferreira Stadium, in Kariega.
The 2025 Human Rights Festival serves as both a global inspiration and a display of the strength of South Africa’s ubuntu culture in working towards a just and inclusive society.
Civil society organisations have worked with Constitution Hill to shape a unique programme for the event.
Hosted on the apron of the Constitutional Court and using venues in the Old Fort and Women’s Jail, the festival will bring together a public audience; community-based organisations; social movements; government and non-governmental organisations, and international organisations.
The four-day event is free to all and gates open at 10h00 on all three days.
On Thursday, Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile will deliver a powerful public lecture at Constitution Hill’s Women’s Jail Museum to honour the life and legacy of Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.
The opening of Qhakaza: Pain Undefined Curated by Gift Kgosierileng, explores how Mama Winnie Mandela used fashion as a form of resistance and empowerment.
“Through carefully selected pieces, photographs, and multimedia installations, the exhibition highlights how her iconic style became a tool for reclaiming agency and asserting dignity in the face of systemic oppression,” said the statement.
There will also be non-governmental organisation (NGO) capacity building sessions; learners programs and public dialogue sessions. The day will end with an NGO and film makers networking session.
On Friday, the official opening ceremony will include the 1000 Drums for Solidarity. Drumming serves as a powerful tool to amplify marginalised voices and foster solidarity within community groups.
There will be multiple interactive sessions including workshops and dialogues; family fun at the children’s village; a local authors book fair and book readings; film festival showcasing local and global talent; live poetry segments and a curated maker’s market.
A live show will take place from 17h00 – 21h00, headlined by renowned jazz artist Mandisi Dyantyis.
On Sunday, Constitution Hill invites the public to the last day of the event to take a stand and join together for Human Rights in the 8km WeThePeopleWalk Walk through the city with a fun filled program kicking off from 7am.
The walk will return back to the site for various activities and a local makers market.
The festival takes place at Constitution Hill, formerly a site of prisons, where many great liberation leaders were incarcerated.
Today Constitution Hill has been transformed into a beacon of light for democracy and social justice. A living museum that executes multiple education, creative development, human rights and constitutional public programs throughout the year.
For more information visits www.humanrightsfestival.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:23
72 views
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
CSA Announces Home Schedule For The 2025/26 International Season
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Cooperation between SA and Japan to continue
Cooperation between SA and Japan to continue
South Africa and Japan continue to enjoy well-established diplomatic relations, which are particularly strong in the fields of trade and investment, science and technology and education, skills transfer and capacity building through development assistance.
This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was speaking during an interview with the Foreign Correspondence Club of Japan as part of a working visit to the East Asian nation.
Full diplomatic relations with Japan were established in 1992, while in 2010, relations between the two countries were upgraded to a Strategic Cooperation Partnership.
This year marks 115 years of relations between the two nations.
READ | South Africa strengthens ties with Japan
Mashatile told the attendees that South Africa and Japan cooperate within the framework of the Partnership Forum held at a ministerial level, which covers the entire spectrum of sectoral cooperation.
The 13th Partnership Forum was held in 2022 in Tokyo and South Africa is expected to host the next session.
“Over the years, we have witnessed enhanced cooperation to foster closer relations through high-level engagements between our two countries. Japan is one of South Africa’s major economic partners with a sizeable investment in the South African economy, and the potential for increased investment exists,“ Mashatile said.
He stated that Japan is the fourth largest economy in the world and total bilateral trade between the two countries in 2024 was at R132 billion, with South Africa recording a trade surplus of R52 billion.
Development cooperation between South Africa and Japan involves technical assistance, research partnerships, financial loans, supplementary budget support through international organisations, and grassroots projects in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
In terms of multilateral cooperation, the Deputy President said Japan cooperates with Africa on the promotion of Africa’s developmental agenda, in line with Agenda 2063, through the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) framework.
In addition, he said the two countries cooperate in the Group of 20 (G20) framework to strengthen efforts towards advancing international economic cooperation for the achievement of sustainable development.
The Deputy President reiterated the South African government’s key objectives, which include reducing poverty and the cost of living, driving economic growth and job creation, and building a capable and ethical State.
“We are committed to making sure that our country prospers, not only for us to attract investments, but also to ensure that South Africans, have an improved quality of life.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy President said South Africa continues to pursue strong bilateral relations with the United States, despite the recent withdrawal of South Africa’s ambassador to the United States of America (USA).
“Acknowledging the recent withdrawal of our Ambassador from the USA, as a country we maintain the position that South Africa should maintain strong bilateral relations with the USA. As a country, we are committed to improving mutually beneficial trade, political, and diplomatic relations with the USA,” the Deputy President said on Wednesday.
At the weekend, the Presidency stated that it remains committed to building a relationship with the USA, despite the “regrettable“ expulsion of the Ambassador.
Additionally, the Deputy President expressed gratitude to all Ministers, Deputy Ministers, senior government officials, the South African embassy, and all counterparts for contributing to the success of his brief visit.
In the past three days, the team has met with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Chief Cabinet Secretary, members of business, academia, research and numerous other stakeholders.
The Deputy President’s visit which began on Sunday, will conclude on Wednesday, 19 March. -SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 12:35
249 views
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
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.
Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB
Motsoaledi urges all to help fight against ’silent killer’ TB
Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, says Tuberculosis (TB) has resulted in more deaths than all other infectious diseases combined but receives less attention.
In 2023 alone, TB claimed over 56 000 deaths in South Africa, despite being a preventable and treatable disease.
The Minister emphasised the urgent need to tackle this public health crisis and announced that the soon-to-be-launched End TB campaign aims to reduce TB-related deaths by 41% by 2035.
“TB is one of the oldest and deadliest diseases, yet it continues to be a silent killer,” said Motsoaledi on Wednesday.
“TB doesn’t make noise. And that’s the problem that we’re faced with. That’s why I’m saying we are faced with a very difficult job.”
The Minister called on everyone to act now to end this epidemic and save lives.
The Minister’s remarks come as 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 TB and highlight efforts to eliminate the disease.
During the event on Monday, the Deputy President will also launch the national End TB campaign in Gamalakhe Township, Ugu District, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the Minister, the End TB initiative aims to test five million people for the disease, leveraging the success of HIV treatment strategies to control disease and prevent drug resistance.
“When we say you want to test five million people, if one family member tested positive, we want to test the whole family. That’s what we are going to do.”
He noted that this infectious disease has killed more people than all other infectious including Ebola, malaria, yellow fever, smallpox, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, influenza, and mpox.
In addition, Motsoaledi emphasised several key elements of the campaign, including the need for those who test positive to receive immediate treatment to prevent further transmission.
The Minister acknowledged the strong link between TB and HIV/AIDS and announced that the campaign will integrate the management of these two diseases, noting that TB kills 80% of people with HIV.
He highlighted the success of SANAC in bringing HIV/AIDS under control, observing the reduction in funerals over the past 15 years.
He suggested changing the name of SANAC to the South African National AIDS and TB Council to reflect the co-infection.
Meanwhile, he said the End TB campaign was a critical step in South Africa’s efforts to address the longstanding TB epidemic and improve the health and well-being of its citizens.
He also touched on the promising new M72/AS01E TB vaccine, funded by the Gates Foundation and Wellcome, with the trial being conducted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI), with preliminary results expected in 2027.
The Minister called on the media to be an ally in shaping public perceptions, creating awareness, and influencing action around the TB campaign.
He was of the view that by amplifying the message, the media can play a crucial role in mobilising communities to participate in the fight against TB.
“We cannot succeed in this battle without the support and engagement of the media.
“Together, we can raise awareness, dispel misconceptions, and empower people to take action against this preventable disease,” he stressed. – SAnews.go.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/19/2025 - 15:02
94 views
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
AEW 2025 Program Launches, Highlighting African Energy Security and Global Investment Opportunities
The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference has officially launched its 2025 program, covering strategic topics from upstream oil and gas to downstream infrastructure and distribution to the energy transition, power industry, energy finance and more. The program offers insight into what this year's edition will offer, as industry leaders, global investors, major operators and think-tanks convene in Cape Town to discuss Positioning Africa as the Next Global Energy Champion.
As the largest event of its kind in Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies serves as a vital platform to sign deals and drive energy projects forward. This year's event offers an expanded program, featuring a variety of stages covering the entire energy value chain. Additional features include pre-conference workshops, a deal room, the return of the African Farmout Forum, technical hubs, fireside chats and more. The Just Energy Transition concert returns to kick off the week while the African Energy Awards & Gala Dinner celebrates movers and shakers in African energy.
One of the highlights of this year's conference is the G20 Energy Leaders Roundtable, which comes as South Africa hosts the 20th meeting of the G20 group this year. A series of country spotlights will also take place during the course of the week, covering markets such as South Africa, Senegal, Equatorial Guinea, Namibia and the Republic of Congo, as well as an OPEC roundtable featuring major OPEC-producers. A BRICS roundtable will examine the impact the group has on Africa's energy future while a COP 30 roundtable will discuss Africa's position ahead of the conference this year.
Africa's energy sector is more attractive than ever, as regulatory reforms, ambitious policies and long-term development strategies continue to entice spending. Total capital expenditure for the oil and gas industry alone is estimated to reach $43 billion in 2025, with spending set to reach $54 billion by 2030. AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 features an energy finance stage, with discussions covering the African Energy Bank; investment trends in Africa and reducing barriers to entry. The stage will unpack Mergers & Acquisitions; financing cross-border projects; energy access and equity, among other topics.
As one of the final frontiers for oil and gas exploration, Africa is seeing a plethora of projects advance. West Africa is projected to lead oil and gas spending in 2025, accounting for over 50% of the continent's total expenditure. While established producers such as Nigeria remain dominant, emerging producers such as Senegal and Mauritania are attracting high levels of investment. In Southern Africa, Namibia targets first oil by 2029 while South Africa seeks to unlock discoveries in both its offshore basins and onshore shale prospects. Zimbabwe targets onshore gas production while Mozambique advances its pipeline of large-scale LNG projects. AEW: Invest in African Energies Upstream E&P Forum will examine the continent's exploration hotspots. Panels include onshore and shallow water potential; the resurgence of Libya; onshore basins to watch; the outlook for LNG; and deepwater plays.
Amid the continent's oil and gas drive, Africa also seeks to advance a just energy transition, Countries such as Mauritania, Namibia and South Africa are spearheading large-scale green hydrogen developments while solar and wind developments offer increased accessibility for remote communities. Gas-to-power is a central feature of the continents just energy transition, with Algeria, Nigeria and Egypt leading the charge. The AEW: Invest in African Energies Energy Transition stage will unpack strategies for decarbonizing while boosting industrialization. Topics include addressing energy security and climate commitments; clean cooking opportunities; local content; integrated ESG, and more.
As Africa seeks to make energy poverty history by 2030, a fundamental industry is the power sector. Efforts are underway across the continent to revitalize power infrastructure, with both grid-connected and off-grid projects advancing. International partners have a role to play in supporting power projects and the AEW: Invest in African Energies Powering Africa stage will address this. Topics include energy leaders dialogue; energy efficiency; bridging the electricity gap; energy diversification; and integrating renewables into the energy mix.
“Africa is on the cusp of an energy revolution, and AEW: Invest in African Energies is where the deals that will define our continent's future are made. We remain committed to making energy poverty history by 2030, and through this event, we are accelerating the partnerships and policies that will make that vision a reality,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
Visit www.AECWeek.com to download your copy today.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.