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Government departments commended for timeous payment of supplier invoice

Location: News

Government departments commended for timeous payment of supplier invoice

Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya, has commended government departments that are complying with the legislation of paying suppliers timeously.

“Departments that consistently comply with this legislation are commended and encouraged to continue and maintain this performance and pay all legitimate invoices from suppliers timeously or within 30 days as required by the Public Finance Management Act and its related prescripts,” Gxoyiya said.

Addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya highlighted that as of the end of the third quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, 38 153 invoices, amounting to approximately R1 billion, were paid by the national departments after 30 days.

However, 4 993 invoices valued at about R442 million, remained unpaid by the departments, beyond the 30-day period.

Gxoyiya said the Department of Defence reported the highest number of invoices paid after 30 days during the third quarter with 30 355 invoices amounting to over R456 million.

“This department was also the highest during the first and second quarters with an average of 61% and 80% respectively of the total number of invoices paid after 30 days by national departments,” Gxoyiya said.

“The most common reasons provided by departments for the late and/or non-payment of invoices vary from misfiled, misplaced or unrecorded invoices to internal control deficiencies,” he said.

Gxoyiya said a total of 76 154 invoices amounting to over R8 billion were paid after 30 days and a total of 94 914 invoices older than 30 days not paid with the rand value of over R12 billion.

“The non-payment of invoices within 30 days remains a concern to the PSC as it is a contravention of the Public Finance Management Act. 

“The PSC will further engage the Office of the Auditor-General on mechanisms to ensure consequence management against Accounting Officers who fail to pay service providers within 30 days upon receipt of an invoice particularly where queries are concerned,” he said.

The National Treasury is continuously assisting suppliers with queries on non-payment of invoices through a dedicated central email address (30daysqueries@treasury.gov.za) by following up with transgressing institutions and providing feedback to suppliers with reasons for the late or non-payment of invoices, and possible date for the payment or any other resolution.

The National Treasury is encouraged to engage with service providers on various platforms to raise awareness of the dedicated queries communication platform so that more queries can come to the fore and receive attention. – SAnews.gov.za  

Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 14:12
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Read moreGovernment departments commended for timeous payment of supplier invoice

Progress made in tackling global challenges

Location: News

Progress made in tackling global challenges

South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) is making significant progress in tackling global challenges through an inclusive and collaborative approach.

This is according to the country’s G20 Sherpa, Zane Dangor. Sherpas are the personal representatives of the G20 leaders.

“We believe this is important and that the G20 must work with the UN [United Nations] and other multilateral institutions to mitigate these challenges and to find practical solutions for all of us. 

“We look forward to constructive engagements from all members of the G20, the invited guests [and] also the international organisations,” he said on Thursday. 

Dangor who is also the Director-General for International Relations and Cooperation, chaired the second virtual meeting of the G20 Sherpas in Pretoria on Thursday.

He also stressed the importance of Ubuntu – a philosophy of inclusiveness and solidarity – in addressing global challenges and achieving shared interests across international organisations.

“We must express our appreciation in the way that you embraced the spirit of Ubuntu, the culture that underpins not just South Africa’s culture of inclusiveness, but also Africa’s wider culture. Ubuntu really underpins our commitment and solidarity in addressing our common challenges in achieving shared prosperity,” he said during the opening session of the meeting. 

Dangor stressed South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism and shared prosperity, with 15 working groups having already conducted their first meetings and three task force meetings.

Working Groups are made up of representatives from member countries’ Ministries. The G20 working groups cover diverse areas, including development, anti-corruption, culture, education, women’s empowerment, environment, health, tourism, and disaster risk management.

“We hope that as you listen to the reflections of the working group members in your own inputs, you’ll be able to sharpen what you believe we should be taking forward as a collective.” 

He also touched on a diplomatic engagement where he told attendees that the Foreign Ministers’ meeting in February this year expressed strong support for South Africa’s themes and priorities, particularly in managing geopolitical issues.

At the meeting in February, G20 foreign ministers threw their weight behind South Africa’s Presidency priorities, which focus on sustainable development and debt sustainability for low-income countries, amongst others.

READ | Foreign Ministers’ Meeting backs SA’s G20 Presidency priorities 

In addition, he said following Brazil’s model, South Africa’s Presidency aims to develop in-depth discussions on geopolitical matters through ministerial and leadership channels while allowing working groups to focus on technical issues.

Dangor acknowledged the enormous task ahead and the need for support from key members and international organisations.

The Sherpa said the objective of the two-day meeting which will conclude on Friday, is to take stock of what has happened, identify areas for improvement, and address key issues.

READ | South Africa convenes second G20 Sherpa Meeting

He announced that the next meeting for the G20 Sherpa will be held from 26 to 28 June 2025 at the Sun City Resort in the North West, marking an in-person gathering to continue collaborative discussions. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 13:49
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Read moreProgress made in tackling global challenges

Cost containment should not undermine service delivery – PSC

Location: News

Cost containment should not undermine service delivery - PSC

The Public Service Commission (PSC) says that while cost containment measures demonstrate fiscal discipline and prudent financial management, their implementation must be closely monitored to avoid inadvertently undermining service delivery.

“This is particularly crucial in essential sectors such as healthcare and education, where cuts to resources or funding could have far-reaching consequences for public well-being and long-term development,” said PSC Commissioner, Anele Gxoyiya.

Addressing the media during the release of the commission’s Quarterly Bulletin titled: The Pulse of the Public Service for the period: 01 January to 31 March 2025, Gxoyiya said effective cost containment requires a balanced approach. This approach prioritises efficiency and savings without compromising the quality or accessibility of essential services.

“The PSC recognises the advantages of fiscal consolidation and cost containment, which include reduced waste in public finances and enhanced accountability,” the Commissioner said at Thursday’s briefing in Pretoria.

In addition, he said that excessive budget cuts could undermine the government's ability to fulfil its constitutional obligations.

“The PSC advocates for a balanced approach that combines financial prudence with investments in key areas essential for long-term growth and effective service delivery.

“The PSC remains committed to promoting constitutional values, advocating for equity and accountability, and ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and effectively for the benefit of all South Africans.”

Whistleblowers 

Regarding strengthening whistleblower protection, Gxoyiya said a resolution was made for the establishment of the Whistleblower Protection House.

This hosting of the Whistleblowers’ Symposium emanated from the 2022 International Anti-Corruption Day celebrations which highlighted the challenges regarding the protection of whistleblowers and their families.

During the symposium, a resolution was made for the establishment of the protection house to support whistleblowers and to facilitate access to support, creation of awareness of whistleblowers’ plight, provide financial assistance, legal counsel and psychological support.

The protection of whistleblowers was identified as one of the high priority areas in the national anti-corruption agenda.

Gxoyiya said this initiative will require the amendment of the current legislation, adding that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is at an advanced stage in reviewing the Protected Disclosure Act. The Act provides procedures in terms of which any employee may disclose information relating to an offence or a malpractice in the workplace by his or her employer or fellow employees. The Act also provides for the protection of an employee, who made a disclosure in accordance with the procedures provided for by the Act, against any reprisals as a result of such a disclosure.

“The advent of democracy in South Africa promised a society that will be built on a human rights-based culture to ensure that the lives of ordinary South Africans are improved and protected.

“Section 195 of the Constitution outlines the basic Values and Principles governing public administration. These values should be the cornerstone upon which to build a public service that is ethical, responsible, responsive and accountable. 

“Government and other role players agreed that corruption in South Africa and the killing of whistleblowers needs to be addressed collaboratively by all sectors of society as the efforts of whistleblowers contribute to building a capable, ethical and developmental Public Service that is responsive to the needs of the people,” Gxoyiya explained.

He added that the commission supports the initiatives of establishing the whistleblowers protection regime as it will enable the citizenry to report wrongdoing without fear of reprisal.

“Fighting corruption is every one’s responsibility in the country. Active citizenship must take its rightful place in fighting against corruption and expose theft, fraud and maladministration through whistleblowing,” he said.

The commission has encouraged South Africans to report acts of corruption and maladministration anonymously through the National Anti-Corruption hotline on 0800 701 701 and by email at (complaints@opsc.gov.za).

Citizens can also do walk-ins at PSC offices nationwide where complainants can interact with professionals equipped to safeguard anonymous reporting. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 04/03/2025 - 13:41
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Read moreCost containment should not undermine service delivery – PSC

Men as Allies: Youth Dialogue Tackles Patriarchal Masculinities for Gender Equality

Location: News

UN Women - Africa
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On 27 March 2025, UN Women South Africa Multi-Country Office, in partnership with the Tshwane University of Technology, and the Departments of Women, Youth, and People with Disabilities, hosted a dialogue on ‘Transforming Patriarchal Masculinities for a Gender-Equal World' for 150 young people. The dialogue, which took place in Pretoria, brought together students from universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutions (TVETs), and high schools from South Africa's Gauteng Province.

The dialogue, supported by the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa, was convened to compile youth recommendations for the upcoming Women Empowerment Ministerial Working Group (W20) meeting to be held later this year as part of the support to South Africa's G20 Presidency in 2025.

One of the pillars of South Africa's National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) served as the basis for the dialogue. Pillar 2 of the NSP on GBVF focuses on unlearning toxic masculinities and embracing alternative positive forms of masculinity. This was seen as a key strategy in a country where more than one-third of women have been subjected to violence at least once in their lifetime.

"Engaging young men and boys as allies in gender equality is critical for addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and patriarchy in our society," said Aleta Miller, UN Women Representative for the South Africa Multi-Country Office. "The dialogue creates a valuable platform to amplify the voices of young people to influence global policy discussions on gender equality through South Africa's G20 Presidency."

Civil society organizations, government stakeholders, youth representatives, women's movements, academic institutions, and the private sector discussed how positive, respectful, and inclusive behaviors that promote accountability can help to transform harmful social norms and prevent violence.

The dialogue began with reflections UN South Africa Resident Coordinator Nelson Muffuh and Advocate Joyce Maluleke who provided opening remarks before the keynote presentations. Two impactful presentations were delivered by Professor Langa Malose from Wits University and Rahul Gandhi from the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies. Both shared their experiences to explain how their views about masculinity and its effects on society were shaped.

These were followed by two engaging panel discussions that explored ways for men and boys to serve as successful allies in gender equality promotion and gender-based violence prevention. Sibulele Poswayo from W20 South Africa and Nkere Skosana from the Department of Social Development, along with Precious Banda from Young Women of Africa, Kabelo Chabala of Primestars, Thabo Limema from Absa, and Andiswa Mthembu ofYoung Women for Life, participated in direct discussions with youth participants to create open dialogue about these essential matters.

For Gomolemo Mokemane, a TUT student, the workshop was “very enlightening” because it allowed him to hear different opinions from different stakeholders on gender-based violence. “From attending this dialogue, I walk away with the firm belief that women should be treated as equals and not as competitors or subordinates, that we are all human beings first and foremost and not men and women, and that if we embraced Ubuntu (our shared humanity and interconnectedness), many of our problems would be solved,”

Nhlanhla Ditire also gave his view on gender equality: “To make the world gender equal, men must learn that they have to respect and protect women from a young age. I was nine years old when I lost both my parents, but I told myself that I would never raise my hand on a woman.” Nhlanhla also emphasized the importance of emotional health and saying, ‘When men get angry, it's good to cry it out; crying does not mean that you are weak. Get help, get therapy. Don't break the law."

The discussions concluded with selected representative reading out commitments to gender equality that they believe leaders should consider and adopt in their policies for action towards a gender-equal world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women - Africa.

Read moreMen as Allies: Youth Dialogue Tackles Patriarchal Masculinities for Gender Equality

BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

Location: News

BMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Masiapato said despite the achievements, challenges exist.

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

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

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

Edwin
Tue, 04/01/2025 - 14:29
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Read moreBMA reflects on progress made since its establishment 

Ramokgopa announces Independent Transmission Programme

Location: News

Ramokgopa announces Independent Transmission Programme

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has announced that government will pursue private investment for the construction of transmission lines through the Independent Transmission Programme (ITP).

The Minister made the announcement of the new programme during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Tuesday.

During the briefing, Ramokgopa touted the pilot programme for the ITP which will pave the way to the construction of 1 164 kilometres (km) of new transmission lines, designed to support renewable energy projects.

“Our renewable energy assets are not fully exploited as a result of the constraints on the transmission side. The Eskom balance sheet and the sovereign balance sheet is not sufficient to carry the kind of investments that are required in this space.

“In terms of the transmission development plan…we will need modernise and expand transmission by about 14 000km and for us to be able to do this, we need about R440 billion. The State is not in a position to provide that kind of support. So, today we are introducing the independent transmission programme,” Ramokgopa said.

He said a ministerial determination has been issued to create a “dispensation that allows for private sector participation”.

“Our view is that there’s a need for us to be able to ensure that we are able to accelerate and support transmission infrastructure development. The transmission development plan does say that we need this 14 000km of new lines to be able to unlock the capacity, especially in the cape provinces.

“That is where we have the most efficient and reliable energy assets in the form of solar and wind, but we have exhausted all of the transmission that allows us to evacuate the electrons so that the economy can benefit from those assets,” the Minister said.

Ramokgopa added that the procurement of transmission will be done in the most cost-effective way, while regulations will be issued this Thursday.

“The Ministry is the one mandated to procure and then the NTCSA [National Transmission Company of South Africa] is the party that buys that. We are going to ensure that we procure the most cost-effective and tendering procedures that are fair, competitive and equitable.

“The requirement for the ITP pilot has to be consistent with transmission development plan and it must also support the IRP [Integrated Resource Plan]. It must [also] be commercially viable,” Ramokgopa said.

It is envisioned that with the new transmission lines, at least 3000 megawatts (MW) of energy will be added to the grid.

“The new generation capacity that we are going to unlock as a result of this intervention is 3 222 MW. It is about 63% of the total capacity of Medupi and Kusile [power stations]. We are moving in the right direction.

“For the South African economy to grow, we need to unshackle the issues of the structural constraints, which is electricity and the inefficiencies in the logistics side. The second is greater investment by the private sector. Electricity gives us a pristine opportunity to transform the economy [and] grow the economy,” he said.

A Request for Qualification will be issued in July while a Request for Proposals will be issued in November. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 04/01/2025 - 12:35
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Human rights ought to be upheld every day 

Location: News

Human rights ought to be upheld every day 

By Neo Semono

Human Rights Month may have drawn to a close, but the significance of human rights extends further than a mere month. 

Human Rights are not just ideals enshrined in our Constitution - they are the foundation of dignity, justice, and freedom that shape our everyday lives.

South Africa’s Bill of Rights safeguards fundamental freedoms. This includes the right to life, freedom of expression, association, and peaceful protest. Yet, in the hustle and bustle of daily life - how often do we stop and take a minute to reflect on these? 

In fact, reflecting on them ought not to be a mere ceremonial obligation that takes place during the month of March. It should be instead a commitment and conversation that occurs throughout the year.

The month of March this year marked over six decades since the painful events of 21 March 1960 where 69 lives were lost in the Sharpeville Massacre in Gauteng. The massacre came to be as a result of citizens choosing to protest against the pass laws of the apartheid government.

Today, South Africa’s constitution states that everyone has the right to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket and to present petitions, peacefully and unarmed.

This year’s Human Rights Month was commemorated under the theme: “Deepening a Culture of Social Justice and Human Rights”.

While some would  likely only remember the month for the convenient long weekend it provided through Human Rights Day on 21 March, the theme spoke to issues affecting the globe today.

And while many sophisticated advancements have been made over the years and will be made in the future, human rights will always matter. They are that ever-important coat that forms part of the priceless family heirloom.

Human rights affect every aspect of life in that they are very closely linked to each person’s inner being. For example, each person that has been abused, raped and been a victim of a crime, finds it very difficult to forget how that horrid moment made them feel and how it trampled on their human rights.

The recent horrific attack and killing of six community-based patrollers in Soshanguve, Gauteng, a day after the commemoration of Human Rights Day, has badly affected the nation’s psyche.

The brave six, together with six others, had raised their hands up to help keep the community of the Marry Me informal settlement located north of Pretoria, safe. They paid the ultimate sacrifice.

These patrollers were ordinary people committed to making a difference in their part of the world. The fact that citizens across the country become part of community police forums (CPFs) speaks to the fact that South Africans have an inherent can-do attitude even if it places their lives at risk.

We should salute the fallen patrollers as well as those who continue to serve on CPFs.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) Act states that the police service shall liaise with the community through CPFs to establish and maintain a partnership between the community and the SAPS. 

The Act also speaks to promoting cooperation between the SAPS and the community in fulfilling the needs of the communities regarding policing as well as promoting joint problem identification and problem-solving by the service and the community.

Government has expressed concern over crime levels with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu voicing his concern over what appears to be the increasing number of murder cases during his visit to Soshanguve last week.

Human rights also extend to issues including inequality and addressing unemployment as stated by Deputy President Paul Mashatile in his Human Rights Day address describing these as “fundamental human rights issues.” 

He said that while South Africa has experienced notable economic growth through expanding economic participation, the harsh reality of a 31.9% unemployment rate reveals the ongoing struggle faced by many in the country against poverty and inequality. 

“This is not merely an economic issue. It represents a fundamental matter of human rights and fairness, demanding a concerted and sustained effort from all of us,” he said.

Last week, news also broke that 23 South Africans were rescued from Myanmar. This after they were lured by an employment agency to Thailand under the pretences of lucrative jobs that were advertised on various social media platforms. 

They were held captive for over four months in a cybercrime compound in Myanmar where they were subjected to physical torture and forced labour, among others. The repatriation of the victims was part of a bilateral cooperation agreement to combat human trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crime signed by Thailand and South Africa in 2023. 

In the same week, it was reported that over 30 Ethiopian nationals were able to escape from a house in Johannesburg’s Lombardy East. It is suspected that they were victims of a human trafficking syndicate.

Trafficking in persons is a crime and violation of human rights, and the country has the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act which deals with trafficking in all its various forms while also providing for the protection of and assistance to victims of trafficking.

As Human Rights Month closes off, we ought to continue to look out for the collective rights of each and every person every day of the year. 

Human rights are not abstract concepts; they touch every aspect of life. They are about safety, dignity, and the ability to live free from fear and oppression. As we move beyond Human Rights Month, we must carry forward the spirit of vigilance, advocacy, and action. Safeguarding human rights is not the duty of government alone. It is the collective responsibility of all of us. 

Every day presents an opportunity to uphold the rights of others, ensuring that justice and freedom remain a lived reality for all. -SAnews.gov.za  

Neo
Mon, 03/31/2025 - 15:47
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Vodacom Bulls Shine

Location: Sport

 The Vodacom Bulls shone bright over their South African counterparts in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship this past weekend, with the Pretoria outfit being the only of the four franchises to come away with a victory as the competition struck round 14. The Vodacom Bulls thumped Zebre Parma 63-24 in Pretoria, but it was a …

Read moreVodacom Bulls Shine

Window for grant recipients to switch to black cards extended 

Location: News

Window for grant recipients to switch to black cards extended 

The Postbank has announced a two-month extension for beneficiaries using the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) gold card to switch to the Postbank black card, allowing them to continue accessing their social grants through April and May 2025.

Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe stressed that beneficiaries who have not yet replaced their gold cards with the new black Postbank black card now have additional time to make the switch.

Government had initially set the deadline for the transition to the new cards to 28 February after which a second extension was set for 20 March 2025.

Mbengashe said the extension provides relief for those who have not yet completed the card replacement process.

“This is now mainly, of course, to those beneficiaries who have not had the time to go and replace their gold card with the black card. It is quite important as well to note that the usage of the card and how it works remains the same,” she said at a media briefing on Friday.

At the briefing in Pretoria, the CEO warned that after 31 May 2025, there will be no alternative methods to access grants.

Grants will continue to be paid into bank accounts but can only be accessed using the new Postbank black card.

“There will be no new extensions. Therefore, after these two months, there'll be no alternative. If you don't have your black card, you will not be able to access your grant,” she cautioned.

She said the gold SASSA cards still work the same and can be used at all retailers and ATMs through to 31 May 2024.

For those who still need to switch to the black card, there are over 300 national sites available for card replacement.

The sites are primarily located within select outlets of major retailers that include Shoprite, Usave, Shoprite, Spar, Pick ’n Pay and Boxer and beneficiaries can dial *120*355# from any cellphone to locate a nearby site.

According to the CEO, only an ID or temporary ID document is required to get a new card.

She said the sites are currently processing approximately 30 000 card replacements daily and urged beneficiaries not to wait until the last minute to replace their cards.

According to Postbank only 1.3 million of the 2.6 million social grant beneficiaries managed to switch from SASSA gold cards to Postbank black cards.  

Mbengashe encouraged those who are still using their SASSA gold cards to not use the Post Office.

“So, we are insisting that people please not use the Post Office. They will not service you if you go to them,” she said, adding that the card can be used at all retailers and ATMs.

She stated that only Mzansi Flexi card customers using the Post Office or asylum seekers can continue to use the Post Office.

“I think the most important thing as we continue to allow people to use their gold card is to emphasise that you must go and still replace this gold card and use these two months to your advantage and your benefit,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 03/28/2025 - 13:59
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Read moreWindow for grant recipients to switch to black cards extended 

Cabinet welcomes hemp and cannabis food product regulations withdrawal

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes hemp and cannabis food product regulations withdrawal

Cabinet has welcomed the withdrawal of the Department of Health's regulations that banned the sale of hemp and cannabis food products, according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

This week the Presidency announced that Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi will retract these regulations following a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

”Whilst acknowledging the negative impact of the unregulated sale of hemp and cannabis food products on possible consumption by children, such regulations must be fully consulted, must not be in contempt of the Constitutional Court Judge, and must not contravene the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act,” the Minister told journalists in Pretoria on Thursday during a post-Cabinet media briefing. 

President Ramaphosa reaffirmed his commitment to increasing stakeholder consultation and public participation in developing new regulations that will reduce health risks and the negative impact of food products containing cannabis and hemp, especially concerning minors. 

“In light of further stakeholder consultations, the Minister of Health will withdraw the Regulations under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act (Foodstuffs Act) to prohibit the sale, importation, and manufacture of foodstuffs containing hemp and cannabis. 

“The Department of Health will continue to consult broadly before publishing the revised regulations,” the Presidency added.

In addition, Ntshavheni said on Thursday that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is coordinating an interdepartmental draft regulation for the implementation of the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/27/2025 - 11:46
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Read moreCabinet welcomes hemp and cannabis food product regulations withdrawal

SASSA gold card swop deadline extended to end of April 2025

Location: News

SASSA gold card swop deadline extended to end of April 2025

The deadline for South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant beneficiaries to swop their SASSA gold cards for the new Postbank cards has been extended to 30 April 2025.

“The deadline for SASSA beneficiaries to swop their SASSA gold card for the Postbank black card has been extended to 30th April 2025 to allow SASSA and the Department of Social Development to complete the migration of the outstanding beneficiaries,” Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.

The Minister was briefing media following Cabinet’s meeting on Wednesday.

At the briefing in Pretoria, Ntshavheni said Cabinet received an update on the migration of SASSA grant beneficiaries to the new and secure Postbank black card.

“The Postbank has met eight of the nine requirements of the South African Reserve Bank for paying social grants, and the last outstanding item being the physical replacement of the cards,” she said.

Government had initially set the deadline for the transition to the new cards to 28 February after which a second extension was set for 20 March 2025.

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, 03/27/2025 - 12:02

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Read moreSASSA gold card swop deadline extended to end of April 2025

The Only Plant to Produce the Ranger PHEV is Where?

Location: Business

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA, 26 March 2025 – Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Ltd (Ford South Africa) has begun full-scale production of the first-ever Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) at its Silverton Manufacturing Plant. The Ranger PHEV, exclusively produced in South Africa for global export, is a key component of Ford’s …

Read moreThe Only Plant to Produce the Ranger PHEV is Where?

MOU signed to develop public servants and trainers

Location: News

MOU signed to develop public servants and trainers

Public Service and Administration Minister Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi has welcomed the signing of an agreement between the National School of Government (NSG) and the E’cole Nationale d’Administration (ENA) - the national school of administration in Burundi.

The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Pretoria on Wednesday to facilitate cooperation on educating, training, and developing public servants and trainers. 

The MoU was signed by Professor Busani Ngcaweni, NSG Principal, Professor Jean de Dieu Ndikumana, the Director General of ENA, witnessed by the Ambassador of Burundi to South Africa, Alexis Bukuru.

Minister Buthelezi said the agreement was an important development in cementing relations between the two institutions and the two countries. 

He added that it contributed to the implementation of the African Union's objectives, to build state capacity and to build stronger states and a functional, capable and efficient public sector on the African continent. 

“The NSG will play its role in contributing towards building capacity in Burundi, while South Africa has a lot to learn from Burundi as well, as the country has the invaluable experience of having to rebuild state capacity after a protracted war. We wish both the NSG and ENA the best in the implementation of this agreement,” Minister Buthelezi said.

The MoU enables the parties to collaborate in the following areas:

  • Capacity building for teacher trainers, trainer professionalisation programme and the digital or virtual art of facilitation
  • The joint development and implementation of continuous training actions for senior executives of ENA
  • The exchange of trainees between the NSG and ENA
  • Collaboration in research and sharing of experiences on the development of a new journal
  • Allowing the NSG and ENA researchers of the same academic areas to write, publish and conduct academic and innovation conferences together and
  • Setting up study visits and exchange of officials.

Ngcaweni and Ndikumana said they looked forward to implementing the partnership to empower public servants in their respective countries. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Thu, 03/27/2025 - 12:23
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Cabinet notes misinformation campaigns

Location: News

Cabinet notes misinformation campaigns

Cabinet has noted with concern “continuing misinformation campaigns by Solidariteit and AfriForum and their allies”. 

This is after AfriForum and Solidarity were in the United States recently.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said at a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday that law enforcement agencies were investigating these violations of South African laws.

“To prevent further misinformation, the South African Police Service (SAPS) met with AfriForum to clarify the allegations of white genocide with reference to farm murders.

“At the meeting, AfriForum conceded that the crime statistics as released by the Minister of Police are accurate, including on farm murders.” 

Ntshavheni said “it is common knowledge that some of the farm murders are committed by people known to the farmers including family members”.

The Minister was briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.

“Cabinet is also aware of the false claim that there are approximately 72 000 white farmers who have signed up to relocate to the USA [United States of America] in response to the invitation by the US President.” 

Citing data from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), Ntshavheni said South Africa has only 41 122 farming units, therefore the number of commercial white farmers does not exceed this figure. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 03/27/2025 - 12:08
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Cabinet welcomes strengthened ties between SA and Japan

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes strengthened ties between SA and Japan

Cabinet has expressed its support for the strengthened relationship between South Africa and Japan following Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s working visit to Japan earlier this month. 

The visit, held from 17 to 19 March 2025, aimed to enhance cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.

“Engagements were also held with the Japan International Cooperation Agency to explore areas of economic collaboration, the Association for African Economic Development in Japan to discuss trade and investment opportunities, and the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security to highlight investment opportunities in the mining sector,” said the Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

She was addressing the media during at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday. 

SAnews reported that Deputy President Mashatile successfully concluded his working visit to Japan last week. 

The two nations commemorated 115 years of strong diplomatic relations, with 2025 marking a significant milestone as both countries chair key multilateral organisations.

South Africa currently holds the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20), while Japan will lead the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9) Summit in August this year.  

During the working visit, Mashatile met with Japanese government officials, including a courtesy call to Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.

The country’s second-in-command also met with the Japan-African Union Parliamentary Friendship League to strengthen bilateral relations and parliamentary cooperation between South Africa and Japan.

During these engagements, the Deputy President highlighted South Africa’s favourable business environment, skilled workforce, and strategic location, making it an attractive destination for Japanese investment. 

The Deputy President expressed his appreciation for Japan’s support of South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, stating that he looks forward to collaborating with Japan to ensure the TICAD-9 Summit is successful. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/27/2025 - 11:10
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SA-DRC to hold diplomatic consultations

Location: News

SA-DRC to hold diplomatic consultations

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, will hold political and diplomatic consultations with his counterpart from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Thérèse Kayiwamba Wagner.

Kayiwamba serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophonie for the DRC.

According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the Ministers plan to review the bilateral cooperation between South Africa and the DRC, focusing on commitments made during the 12th Session of the South Africa-DRC Bi-National Commission (BNC) aimed at strengthening this cooperation.

The meeting will take place on Thursday, 27 March 2025, in Pretoria. 

Political ties between the two nations date back to 1997 when former President Nelson Mandela facilitated a meeting between the late President Désiré Kabila and Mobutu Sese Seko aboard a South African Navy ship in Pointe-Noire, Congo-Brazzaville. 

Formal bilateral relations between South Africa and the DRC were established in 1992. 

The department stated that these relationships are mainly conducted through the BNC, which was established in 2004.

The last session of the BNC took place in Kinshasa, DRC, on 6 July 2023. South Africa is scheduled to host the 13th session of the BNC.

“Since then, South Africa and the DRC have significantly strengthened their bilateral cooperation across various sectors, culminating in the signing of 38 bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding.” 

These legal instruments cover a broad spectrum of areas, including agriculture, defence, trade and investment, health, policing, energy, public service and administration, cooperative governance, transport, diplomatic cooperation, and immigration.
Meanwhile, the department said South Africa has significant investments in the DRC and is the second largest source of imports for the country. 

“Many South African multinational companies have a large footprint in the country in several sectors, including, among others, infrastructure development, financial services, mining, construction and property development, retail, and so on,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/26/2025 - 15:19
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Deputy Minister Botes to Host His Portuguese Counterpart

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will host the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Portugal, Professor Nuno Sampaio, on Thursday, 27 March 2025, in Pretoria.

The Working Visit will serve as an opportunity to review areas of bilateral cooperation, identify opportunities for further cooperation and address challenges impeding progress.

The meeting will further focus on the following key areas:

  • Proposed cooperation on critical minerals with Portugal
  • Expansion of scientific, technological and innovative relations with Portugal

South Africa and Portugal maintain friendly political relations and the two countries have strong historical and cultural ties.

Bilateral cooperation with Portugal is in line with South Africa's foreign policy objective of North-South Cooperation. The two countries are committed to develop mutually beneficial political and economic relations and technical cooperation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

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Chinese Traditional Culture Presented in Pretoria Market

Location: News

Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa
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On 22 February 2025, the Chinese Embassy in South Africa held a Lantern Festival themed activity at the famous Boeremark in Pretoria to promote traditional Chinese culture. Minister Li Zhigang attended the event.

A number of exhibition areas were set up on the spot. Locals were invited to taste tangyuan, the traditional Chinese delicacy. They received Chinese culture themed books and souvenirs, watched Chinese martial arts and dance performances, and learned about the origin and customs of the Lantern Festival, as well as the 24 solar terms and 12 zodiac signs. Traditional Chinese culture was presented in a graphic, vivid way. The game of pitch-pot was played and the 12 zodiac seals were presented to attract more people to participate and feel the charm of Chinese culture.

Chinese culture is profound and has a long history. This event allowed the local people to appreciate the profound Chinese culture in a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere, and to enjoy the festivity while savouring the delicious food. It not only showed the unique charm of traditional Chinese culture, but also built a bridge of communication and understanding for people of different cultural backgrounds.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa.

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