Malawi’s Education Choices in the Wake of Aid Cuts
USAID’s closure, while painful and damaging, might give rise to a new arrangement beyond aid.
Russia
The Sahel Region Is Less Secure Than Ever: Foreign Forces Just Add to the Cycle of Violence
After more than a decade, external security intervention has left the Sahel region more fragmented, militarised and violent.
How Fuel Hikes Impact the Price of Bread
Record diesel prices will increase food production costs
US’s Section 301 Investigation Confirms Freedom Front Plus’s Warnings About Dangers of ANC’s Reckless Foreign Policy
The announcement by the United States (US) that it will conduct a Section 301 investigation into South Africa (and 59 other countries) to probe possible unacceptable labour practices in the manufacture of trade goods is a clear sign that Washington’s patience with the ANC is finally running out. Section 301 allows the US to impose […]
The post US’s Section 301 investigation confirms Freedom Front Plus’s warnings about dangers of ANC’s reckless foreign policy appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Warships as Diplomats: How the South African Navy Is Tasked With Building Ties With Other Nations
The presence of a warship can be the most tangible and visible sign of bilateral and multilateral friendships.
Africa’s Militaries Have Always Relied on Imported Weapons: Why a Shift to Homegrown Defence Is Now Under Way
Across Africa, governments are finding ways to reduce dependence on foreign arms suppliers and building capabilities they can control, maintain and adapt.
The Time Has Come for Ramaphosa to Say Where He Stands
(Freedom Front Plus’s reply to SONA 2026) The time has come for President Cyril Ramaphosa to look Afrikaners in the eye and clearly articulate where he stands with them. For more than 30 years, Afrikaners have patiently extended a helping hand motivated by a genuine desire to collaborate and make South Africa a successful home […]
The post The time has come for Ramaphosa to say where he stands with the Afrikaner appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Much Like Zuma’s 2014 SONA, President Ramaphosa Tries to Tell a “Good Story”, While Country Collapses
President Cyril Ramaphosa borrowed a page from former President Jacob Zuma’s 2014 State of the Nation Address (SONA) tonight by boasting about the country’s “good story”. President Ramaphosa delivered his speech in his capacity as President of South Africa, but he remains President of the ANC. And wherever his party governs – in councils, provinces […]
The post Much like Zuma’s SONA in 2014, President Ramaphosa tries to tell a “good story”, while country collapses appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Inclusion in AGOA Is Key to South Africa’s Economic Recovery
The renewal of and South Africa’s continued inclusion in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is not merely desirable – it is absolutely essential for the country’s economic survival, job creation and growth. AGOA offers preferential access to the American market, which is crucial for creating thousands of jobs and facilitating billions of rand […]
The post Inclusion in AGOA is key to South Africa’s economic recovery appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
We Should Not Be Playing War Games With Iran, Russia and China
Repressive regimes should have no place in our military strategy
South African Trade Under Pressure Following Naval Exercise
South Africa’s economic interests were dealt a severe blow by the ANC’s decision to host a joint naval exercise with Iran, Russia and China in Simon’s Town. This step was not neutral diplomacy, but a deliberate geopolitical signal that further alienated the country from its second-largest trading partner, the United States of America (US). The […]
The post South African trade under pressure following naval exercise appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
ANC Cannot Speak on Behalf of South Africa Regarding Venezuela
The ANC cannot speak on behalf of South Africa regarding the events in Venezuela or its foreign policy. The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) has repeatedly pointed out that the ANC’s ideologically driven anti-Western policy does not reflect the sentiments of all South Africans. The Freedom Front Plus welcomes the actions of the United States […]
The post ANC cannot speak on behalf of South Africa regarding Venezuela appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
US Air Strikes in Northern Nigeria: Possible Windfalls, as Well as Dangers
US military intervention could strengthen Nigeria’s fight against insurgency in the short term but also risks unintended consequences.
ANC and Ramaphosa’s Arrogance Exposed
United States (US) Secretary of State Marco Rubio yesterday issued a sharply worded statement warning that America’s patience with South Africa and the country’s open defiance of the US has reached breaking point. Rubio’s statement makes it clear that America’s judgement of South Africa is no longer mere diplomatic sparring – it is the condemnation […]
The post Rubio exposes ANC and Ramaphosa’s arrogance and warns against South Africa’s self-destructive politics appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Global Power Shifts Are Playing Out in the Red Sea Region: Why This Is Where the Rules Are Changing
The Red Sea region has become a showcase of the new alliances shaping global power and influence.
Nigeria’s Government Is Using Digital Technology to Repress Citizens. A Researcher Explains How
Local conflict and development needs drive the demand for digital authoritarianism technologies.
Ansaru Terror Leaders’ Arrest Is a Strategic Change for Nigeria: What Could Happen Next
For Nigeria, the arrest of two major terrorist leaders is an important strategic victory but security needs to brace for likely retaliation.
Durban Protest Against Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Demonstrators demand Russia return Ukrainian children
US Geopolitics Drives Harsh Trade Tariffs
The United States’ announced 30% trade tariffs, likely driven by underlying geopolitical motives, are, by implication, a direct attack on the economic benefits South Africa derives from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). These tariffs are also a response to South Africa’s growing diplomatic and economic ties with countries such as those in BRICS, […]
The post US geopolitics drives harsh trade tariffs imposed on South Africa appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
Ministerial Forum for Political Dialogue Between the French Republic and the Republic of South Africa
- The 9th Session of the Ministerial Forum for Political Dialogue between the Republic of France and the Republic of South Africa was held in la Celle Saint-Cloud, France, on 16 May 2025.
- The French and South African delegations were led respectively by Their Excellencies Mr Jean-Noël BARROT, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic, and Mr Ronald Ozzy LAMOLA, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa.
- The talks reflected the warm and cordial relations of cooperation between the two countries. Views were exchanged on bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest.
On bilateral matters:
- The Ministers expressed their satisfaction with the improved level of cooperation in the fields of basic and higher education, science and culture, environment, electricity and energy, trade and investment, transport and development and cyber criminality. The two parties highlighted the need for both countries to develop plans of action for the effective implementation of existing bilateral agreements.
- The two parties welcomed the ongoing negotiations and significant progress made in finalising bilateral agreements pertaining to cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, transport, protection of Crozet and Prince Edward Islands Marine Protected Areas, maritime search and rescue as well as the creation of a Joint Ministerial Commission on international relations.
- The South African side expressed its continued gratitude to the French Republic for the numerous scholarship opportunities afforded to young South Africans to pursue educational opportunities in France. Both countries would continue to explore opportunities for further education and training, as well as the exchange of students and academics.
- To facilitate joint business trainings in South Africa and France, at the benefit of both countries, Their Excellencies Ministers Barrot and Lamola discussed a technical agreement in the field of Cooperation on Labour and Employment for Graduates and Young Professionals. The Ministers welcomed the development and look forward to the opportunities that will be created by the signature of the agreement.
- The South African side highlighted the important role played by France in terms of solidarity partnerships, particularly through the Just Energy Transition partnership (JET-P) and the Team Europe Initiative Manufacturing African Vaccines+ (MAV+). Both countries underlined the need for the JET-P to be continued and to contribute to South Africa's transition towards a decarbonized energy mix, in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement.
On regional and international matters:
- The Ministers exchanged views on regional African issues of common interest, particularly the situation in Mozambique, the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Sudan. On Eastern-DRC, they agreed to pursue convergence of the various diplomatic efforts, towards a lasting and sustainable solution to the conflict.
- The two parties exchanged views on the current geopolitical environment and agreed on the need to uphold multilateralism, and a rules-based multilateral system based on international law, in line with the objectives and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT congratulated South Africa for its G20 Presidency and reiterated France's support to its priorities, summarized in the theme “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”, noting that these priorities converge with the objectives of the French initiative of the Paris Pact for People and the Planet.
- Both parties addressed global issues, including climate change and biodiversity protection. French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT underlined France's invitation to the President of the Republic of South Africa, HE Mr Matalema Cyril RAMAPHOSA, to attend the third United Nations Ocean Conference taking place in Nice, from 9 to 13 June 2025.
- Regarding the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, both Ministers highlighted the need for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine and stressed the importance of supporting an inclusive and peaceful approach to the resolution of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both Ministers advocated for a negotiated settlement, in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter, which include respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.
- The crisis situation in the Palestinian territories and the Middle East was discussed. The French side was briefed on the status of the case brought by South Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). French Minister Jean-Noël BARROT invited South Africa to participate to the international conference on the Two-State solution, in June 2025 in New York, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.
- The Ministers welcomed the upcoming visit by the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Honourable Mr. Paul MASHATILE, to France from 21 May to 24 May 2025 a landmark opportunity to accelerate bilateral economic collaboration. Accompanied by a high-level delegation of key Ministers, this visit will spearhead the South Africa-France Investment Conference, a dynamic platform for fostering strategic partnerships and exploring innovative avenues for economic collaboration, organised by the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in France with robust participation from leading South African and French business entities. The Ministers are confident that this pivotal engagement will unlock new opportunities, deepen investment flows, and amplify trade synergies between the two nations.
- His Excellency Ronald O. LAMOLA expressed his heartfelt appreciation and deep gratitude to His Excellency Mr Jean-Noël BARROT, to the Government of the French Republic and people of France, for the warm and fraternal welcome, as well as the kindness and attention extended to him and his delegation during their stay in France. He further looked forward to welcoming the Minister to South Africa for the G20 Summit.
Done in La Celle Saint-Cloud, France, on 16 May 2025
| For the French Republic | For the Republic of South Africa |
| H.E. Jean-Noël BARROT
Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs |
H.E. Ronald Ozzy LAMOLA
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation |
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
G20 Finance Ministers set to meet in US
G20 Finance Ministers set to meet in US
The Group of Twenty (G20) Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors are set to convene a two-day meeting on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Spring Meetings, taking place in the United States, later this month.
The G20 is an international forum of both developing and developed countries, which seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.
This meeting is part of the Finance Track under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which will gather Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of G20 member countries, invited countries, and international organisations to discuss global economic challenges, financial stability, and policies aimed at fostering economic growth.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced on 1 December 2024 and will run until 30 November 2025. It is taking place under the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.”
The Finance Track is co-chaired by Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, and South African Reserve Bank Governor, Lesetja Kganyago.
G20 members include the world’s major economies, representing 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population.
The G20 comprises 19 countries (including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States), the European Union, and since 2023, the African Union.
The two-day meeting will take place from 23-24 April 2025, in Washington, D.C.
- The session will also be livestreamed on the following YouTube channels: https://www.youtube.com/c/NationalTreasuryoftheRepublicofSouthAfrica
- https://www.youtube.com/user/SAReserveBank - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 04/15/2025 - 11:14
157 views
Lamola arrives in Russia for working visit
Lamola arrives in Russia for working visit
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, arrived in Moscow, Russia, on Monday for a two-day working visit.
During his trip, Lamola will preside over the 18th Inter-Governmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation, a structured mechanism for coordinating economic and trade relations between South Africa and Russia.
In addition, he is scheduled to hold political consultations with his counterpart, Minister Sergey Lavrov.
According to the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, the Minister is also expected to visit the memorial centres dedicated to South Africa’s liberation heroes, John Beaver (JB) Marks and Moses Kotane. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/15/2025 - 09:26
31 views
G20 Development Working Group meeting to get underway
G20 Development Working Group meeting to get underway
The South African Presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20) is this week convening the second Development Working Group (DWG) meeting in the Western Cape.
“The G20 DWG plays a pivotal role in shaping global development priorities, focusing on reducing inequalities, promoting sustainable growth, and strengthening international partnerships,” the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation said.
Starting on Monday, 14 April and ending on Wednesday, 16 April, the meeting will serve as a platform for in-depth discussions on key development challenges and cooperative solutions.
The G20 is an international forum of both developing and developed countries, which seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency commenced on 1 December 2024 and will run until 30 November 2025.
The gathering will bring together representatives from G20 member states, invited countries, and international organisations to deliberate on policies that foster inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.
In alignment with the theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability, the discussions will focus on three high-level priorities:
• High-Level Principles on Global Public Goods and Global Public Investment.
• Mobilising Finance for Development and Means of Implementation.
• Building Resilience through Universal Social Protection Floors.
The G20 members represent around 85% of the global Gross Domestic Product, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population.
It comprises 19 countries (Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States) and two regional bodies, namely the European Union (EU) and African Union (AU).
The three-day meeting is taking place at the Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/14/2025 - 10:08
6 views
Nornickel Presents Palladium Technology Development Strategy for the PGM Industry in South Africa
Nornickel (https://NorNickel.com) has unveiled its strategy for the development of palladium-based technologies at the PGMs Industry Day, an international conference held in South Africa. The company's experts shared insights into new technological developments that have the potential to redefine the use of platinum group metals (PGMs) extracted on the African continent, particularly in the fields of energy, electronics, and green technology.
The presentation attracted considerable interest from conference participants. Industry representatives noted the practical relevance of Nornickel's innovations for the market, as well as the significant potential of palladium in emerging high-tech applications.
Nornickel is the world's largest producer of palladium and high-grade nickel, and one of the leading global suppliers of platinum, copper, cobalt, and other precious and base metals. The company's Palladium Centre focuses on the development and implementation of innovative palladium-based solutions aimed at enhancing industrial efficiency.
Palladium is the most extracted metal among the PGMs and benefits from a geographically diversified supply chain. Russia and South Africa, the two major producing regions, ensure stable global supply.
From a chemical perspective, PGMs complement each other in many applications. Nornickel's research shows that palladium alloys with other PGMs frequently outperform individual metals in terms of efficiency and durability.
Nornickel's approach to palladium innovation is closely aligned with key global megatrends: the energy transition, sustainable development, and digitalisation. Promising application areas include solar and hydrogen energy, biofuels, and next-generation electronics, where palladium can help reduce the cost of conductive components, hard drives, and OLED displays. In existing markets, the company is focused on improving performance and economics for end users.
Nornickel is actively building a global partnership network to co-develop and commercialise palladium-based solutions. The company is committed to long-term collaboration with scientists, manufacturers, and end users to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and products.
"Our goal is to become a technological partner for producers of PGM-based products. We focus on identifying applications where palladium delivers a strong competitive edge, bringing together leading scientific teams to develop prototypes, conducting large-scale industrial trials, optimising the product, and transferring the technology to manufacturers. This approach allows us to create more efficient materials and open up new markets for palladium applications," said Dmitry Izotov, CEO of Nornickel's Palladium Centre.
Since its launch, the Centre has built a portfolio of 25 products. By 2030, the portfolio is expected to exceed 100 projects, generating an additional annual demand of 40–50 tonnes of palladium.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Nornickel’s Palladium Centre.