SA News

10 March 2025

Government activities for the week 10 – 14 March 2025

Location: News

Government activities for the week 10 – 14 March 2025

On Monday, 10 March, the Department of Health will commemorate World Obesity Day at Ritson Campus Hall, Durban University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal.

Also on Monday, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy visits victims of a tragic Free State crash at Pelonomi Hospital.

On Tuesday, 11 March, the Acting Director-General of the Department of Military Veterans, Nontebeko Mafu invites the media to a Military Veterans Memorial Lecture and South African Military Veterans Association (SANMVA) engagement in the Eastern Cape.

Wednesday, 12 March, no confirmed event.

On Thursday, 13 March, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, will host the inaugural National System of Innovation Transformation Summit from 13 to 14 March.

Friday, 14 March, no confirmed event.

Neo
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:58
61 views

10 March 2025

President pays tribute to Athol Fugard

Location: News

President pays tribute to Athol Fugard

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to world-renowned actor, novelist and playwright Athol Fugard who passed away on Sunday in Stellenbosch.

Fugard was widely known as one of South Africa’s greatest playwrights – writing plays which dealt with the Apartheid government’s injustices and working with artists across the racial divide during South Africa’s darkest parts of history.

“Beyond the impressive body of work that he has left behind, Athol Fugard will be remembered for being an outlier amongst the millions of white South Africans who blithely turned a blind eye to the injustices being perpetrated in their name,” President Ramaphosa said.

Fugard’s most well-known work include the plays No Good Friday, The Blood Knot, Master Harold and the Boys, and Sizwe Bansi is Dead.

His book, Tsotsi, was also the inspiration behind the 2005 Oscar winning movie of the same title.

In 1985, Time magazine honoured Fugard as the “greatest active playwright in the English-speaking world”.

“As a country we are grateful that we were able to honour the legendary Athol Fugard during his lifetime with the National Order of Ikhamanga in Silver.

“The Fugard Theatre in District Six in Cape Town stands as a fitting tribute to a man whose life and works have left an indelible footprint, and that will continue to inspire generations of creative professionals for time to come,” President Ramaphosa added. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 08:01
327 views

10 March 2025

South Africa to outline progress on Beijing+30 implementation

Location: News

South Africa to outline progress on Beijing+30 implementation

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has arrived at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to present South Africa’s report on the country’s progress in implementing the Beijing Platform for Action (Beijing+30).

Chikunga is leading South Africa’s delegation to the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), which takes place from 10 to 21 March 2025.

The South African Beijing+30 report provides a comprehensive overview of the progress made in advancing gender equality from 2019 to 2024. It draws on data, statistics, and key trends to assess achievements and challenges in this area.

The report highlights the 12 critical areas of concern outlined in the Beijing Platform for Action, including women and poverty, education and training, women’s health, violence against women, women and armed conflict, and women and the economy.

In addition, it covers vital topics, including women in power and decision-making, human rights of women, women and the media, women and the environment, and the empowerment of the girl child.

“The focus of the report will look at the priorities, achievements, challenges and gaps, while also demonstrating and highlighting the emerging and future priorities,” the department said in a statement on Sunday.

South Africa will join the global community in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which coincides with South Africa’s Presidency of the G20, where women’s empowerment and gender equality are a priority.

The Minister is joined by Social Development Minister Nokuzola Tolashe; Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Mimmy Gondwe; Basic Education Deputy Minister, Dr Reginah Mhaule, and Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts.

KZN MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, including Northern Cape MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, and Mpumalanga MEC for Social Development, also form part of the delegation that will provide provincial updates on South Africa's progress in areas such education, health and social protection. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:41
121 views

10 March 2025

Police commended for drug bust at Durban school

Location: News

Police commended for drug bust at Durban school

KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their swift and effective operation at Fairvale Secondary School in Wentworth, south of Durban, which led to the confiscation of illegal substances and large sums of cash.

The massive operation on Friday follows the reports of violence and drug-related activities within the school.

Over 60 police officers conducted a thorough search and seizure to ensure that teaching and learning can continue in a safe and drug-free environment.

Among the illegal substances confiscated are vapes, cigarettes, sharp scissors, pocket knives, pain medication, and some unknown pills.

Hlomuka reiterated that the department is against criminal activities permeating the schools and putting learners' futures at risk.

"We will not idly stand by while drugs and illegal activities threaten the safety and education of our children," Hlomuka said.

The MEC also implored parents and guardians to play an active role in monitoring their children’s activities.

“We ask that parents be intentional about ensuring that their children stay away from the use of illegal substances and any criminal activities. The safety and well-being of our learners requires joint effort between the department, law enforcement and families,” Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:27
59 views

10 March 2025

Agriculture is a vital part of our growth story – President

Location: News

Agriculture is a vital part of our growth story – President

President Cyril Ramaphosa says it is in the interest of all South Africans to have a diverse and inclusive agricultural sector that drives economic growth and ensures food security.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, he emphasised the need for a farming industry that reflects South Africa’s diversity while sustaining the country's food supply.

“The farming sector of South Africa is vital to our growth agenda. It has shown resilience in the past and will likely continue along this encouraging and promising path. It will therefore be critical that the sector embraces the onward march of transformation.

“It is in the interests of all South Africans that we have an agricultural sector that is representative and inclusive, that contributes to the growth of our economy and that produces the food our country needs,” the President said.

The President highlighted that agriculture was one of the most important sectors in the nation’s economy. The goods and services produced across the agricultural value chain underpin the country’s food security and account for a significant portion of South Africa’s exports.

According to data from the Agbiz, last year South Africa’s agricultural exports reached a record $13.7 billion. These agricultural exports are diverse, with 44% of these products exported to other African countries, 21% to Asia and the Middle East, 19% to the European Union and 6% to the Americas.

The President reflected that the value and volume of South Africa’s farming sector have more than doubled since the country’s transition to democracy in 1994, reflecting the combined efforts of government and industry to ensure that South African products access as many export markets as possible.

Beyond the role of expanded export markets, agricultural economists have attributed the sector’s growth to government’s embrace of science, allowing the private sector to register better seed cultivars and genetics to boost productivity.

“The agricultural sector remains ripe for investment because of its recognised growth prospects. In addition, the revenue the state collects from agricultural enables government to provide services that improve the lives of our citizens,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa also noted that the sector is a major source of employment. By the end of 2024, approximately 924 000 people worked directly in agriculture and over 200 000 worked elsewhere in the agriculture value chain.

“The health and growth of our farming sector is vital to supporting small towns and keeping rural South Africa vibrant. Given the critical role of agriculture in our national life, government is working with all stakeholders to ensure the survival, sustainability and growth of this sector,” the President said.

In collaboration with partners in the industry, the President said government was undertaking growth-enhancing measures such as the sectoral master plans. The Poultry and Sugar Master Plans were the first steps, culminating in the Agriculture and Agro-processing Masterplan that was signed by organised agriculture and other partners in 2022.

The Department of Agriculture has launched a blended finance instrument in collaboration with the Land Bank to help farmers who require capital to continue growing the sector.

As this labour-intensive sector expands, the President said that more work opportunities will be created in the most vulnerable areas of the country, particularly rural areas. This in turn will support their economic rejuvenation.

The President further noted that agriculture, like other sectors, is affected by municipal service delivery challenges, and by the poor state of key infrastructure such as roads, rail and ports. He said this constrains the delivery of agricultural goods to markets.

However, the structural reforms that started during the sixth administration are making progress towards addressing the port and rail challenges. Several road transport and bulk water infrastructure projects are underway that will boost the growth of agriculture.

President Ramaphosa added that achieving sustainable agriculture in South Africa requires addressing challenges related to equity, inclusion, and land ownership in the farming sector.

“We cannot talk about sustainable agriculture in South Africa without addressing issues of equity and inclusion in farming and land ownership. Transformation remains a challenge in agriculture,” he said.

The President highlighted that in his book, A Country of Two Agricultures, economist Wandile Sihlobo notes that black farmers currently only account for around 10% of the commercial output in South Africa's agriculture.

“Our growth agenda must therefore have a bias towards the empowerment of black farmers. The inclusion of black farmers in commercial agriculture necessitates that land is made available to them.

“The ongoing land reform process and release of government land will continue to benefit emerging farmers and ensure that they too add to the growth of South Africa's farming economy.

“This is an effort that requires multi-sectoral collaboration. The Land Bank and other commercial financiers will need to collaborate by providing capital. Organised agriculture can come on board to deploy the necessary training,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:27
41 views

10 March 2025

Department of Health commemorates World Obesity Day

Location: News

Department of Health commemorates World Obesity Day

The Department of Health will observe World Obesity Day on Monday, 10 March 2025, to raise awareness about the global challenge of obesity and advocate for systemic changes that promote healthier lifestyles.

This year’s World Obesity Day is celebrated under the theme: “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives,” which emphasises a need to shift focus from individuals to the systems that influence people’s health.

According to the department, previous responses to obesity have primarily focused on individual behaviours. However, this year, they are shifting their focus.

“This highlights the need for multi-sectoral interventions to address the root causes of obesity and improve health outcomes.”

The department highlighted that being overweight and obesity are serious health issues in South Africa, significantly contributing to non-communicable diseases, and are associated with an increased risk of death and disability from these conditions.

According to the 2022 National Food and Nutrition Security Survey, nearly 50% of adults in South Africa are overweight or obese, with 68% of women and 38% of men affected.

In addition, almost 69% of obese adults reside in households that do not have enough food.

It is estimated that by the year 2025, one in four people will be living with obesity.

“It is time we turn our attention to creating supportive environments where people can have access to available healthy food and physical activity opportunities and to receive appropriate nutritional information to make decisions that will contribute to healthy eating habits and lifestyles,” the statement read.

World Obesity Day is observed on March 4 every year to raise awareness about the causes and prevention of obesity in adults and children and to encourage action to address it.

The commemoration will take place at the Durban University of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal today. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 08:51
62 views

9 March 2025

Limpopo a province of boundless opportunity

Location: News

Limpopo a province of boundless opportunity

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has called on the Diplomatic Corps to view Limpopo as a province of boundless opportunity.

“Our economy is powered by three key drivers, mining, agriculture, and tourism, each offering lucrative potential for investment and growth,” Ramathuba said.

Speaking at a Diplomatic Corps breakfast in Thohoyandou on Saturday, she said Limpopo was rich in mineral wealth, home to vast deposits of platinum, diamonds and rare earth minerals that are crucial to the modern world.

“The global demand for these resources continues to grow, and Limpopo is well-positioned to be a leading supplier, offering a stable and investor-friendly environment for responsible mining and beneficiation,” Ramathuba said.

Limpopo remains the breadbasket of South Africa, she said, producing a significant portion of the country’s fresh produce, including citrus, avocados and macadamia nuts.

“With fertile lands and a climate suited for year-round production, we are not just feeding the nation, we are feeding the world.

“We seek partnerships that will drive agro-processing, value addition and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that our agricultural sector remains a pillar of economic resilience.

“Our province is a place where nature, culture and heritage converge. From the breathtaking landscapes of the Kruger National Park to the ancient wonders of Mapungubwe, we offer an unparalleled tourism experience,” the Premier said.

Ramathuba said the hospitality of Limpopo people, combined with world-class facilities, makes the province a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.

“We therefore invite you to join us in expanding this sector, developing eco-tourism, luxury lodges, and cultural heritage sites that will continue to draw visitors from across the globe.

“Our province is not just an economic hub, it is a strategic gateway to Africa. Limpopo shares borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, making it a key trade corridor for goods and services moving across the continent.

“Our transfrontier parks and cross-border infrastructure position us as a link between SADC markets and global investors looking for an entry point into Africa’s growing economies,” the Premier said.

The province hosted the first Outreach Program of the Group of 20 (G20) on Friday. The Premier described it as a historic milestone.

“The G20 represents 85% of global GDP, 75% of global trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population. The outreach was more than just a dialogue, it was a powerful opportunity for the people of Limpopo to understand and engage with South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

“Moreover, it allowed us to showcase our investment potential in mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism and the green economy,” she said.

Ramathuba said Limpopo was ready to open doors to investors, to forge new partnerships and to build a future where the province stands as a global leader in industrialisation and sustainable development.

“Limpopo is open for business. Our investment landscape is rich with potential and we stand ready to work alongside you to turn vision into reality,” Ramathuba said.

At a gala dinner on Friday, the Premier told the Diplomatic Corps that Limpopo was a land of immense potential, rich in culture, heritage and economic opportunities.

“We encourage you to consider Limpopo not just as a tourist destination but as a region ripe for investment. Tourism is one of the key drivers of our economy, creating jobs and supporting local communities,” she said.

She said the province believed that investment in infrastructure, particularly in roads, bridges, and logistics would unlock the full economic potential of the province.

“When businesses and farmers have access to reliable roads, they can transport goods efficiently, engage in larger markets, and ultimately grow their enterprises.

“We invite our esteemed guests and members of the Diplomatic Corps to explore opportunities in infrastructure development, as we seek partnerships that will transform Limpopo into a well-connected economic hub,” she said.

Limpopo is blessed with fertile soil and a climate that supports diverse agricultural activities.

“We are committed to strengthening our farming industry by supporting small-scale farmers to transition into commercial farming,” the Premier said.

Friday’s launch of the G20 Outreach Programme forms part of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering wider public dialogue and participation in South Africa's G20 Presidency.

South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024.

The G20 is a group of 19 countries, as well as the African Union and the European Union, which defines itself as the premier forum for global economic cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sat, 03/08/2025 - 23:04
365 views

9 March 2025

President pays tribute to gender activist Pamela Mabini

Location: News

President pays tribute to gender activist Pamela Mabini

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed condolences to the family, friends and fellow activists of Gqeberha-based whistleblower and gender activist Pamela Mabini.

Mabini played a vital role in supporting victims in the Timothy Omotoso alleged rape and trafficking case.

The 46-year-old woman was shot outside her home on Friday, 7 March 2025.

The President paid tribute to Mabini for standing up for women who experienced gender-based violence.

“…[Mabini] made it her mission to ensure the police and our courts brought perpetrators to justice. The brutality inflicted on Dr Gomolemo Mokae and Pam Mabini – and recently, Imam Muhsin Hendricks – demonstrate that violent criminals have no regard for the lives of South Africans, including selfless and caring citizens who become known publicly for the contributions they make to the upliftment and protection of fellow citizens.

“Their deaths and those of all victims of violence must move communities to work together more closely as citizens and in partnership with the police to prevent violence and to identify perpetrators in instances where attacks result.

“I call on anyone who has information about any criminal activity – including these current cases – to play your role in making South Africa safer by sharing information with the police or community police forums. All of us look forward to law enforcement agencies playing their role in bringing violent criminals to book,” the President said on Sunday.

Mokae, 61, was found dead in his Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, home on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, after he had last been seen on 28 February 2025. He had spent many years caring for patients in Ga-Rankuwa and was experiencing health problems of his own when he was shot in his bed.

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, joined the President in extending her heartfelt condolences and expressed deep sadness over the tragic murder of Mabini.

“The department of Justice and Constitutional Development remains committed to ensuring the safety of court users, court officials, presiding officers, community activists, witnesses, and whistleblowers.

“Efforts are underway to strengthen legal protections, including reviewing legislation to close loopholes that hinder these safeguards,” the Minister said.

She emphasised that serving as a friend of the court is not only an act of bravery but also essential for fostering a safer society.

While respecting the independence of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies, the Minister Kubayi urged for a swift and thorough investigation into this tragic loss.

She called on all relevant authorities to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence and ensure safer communities.

Furthermore, the Minister encouraged whistleblowers not to be deterred by this act and urged anyone with information that could assist in solving this case to come forward. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 03/09/2025 - 14:49
221 views

9 March 2025

Minister Creecy to visit Free State accident victims

Location: News

Minister Creecy to visit Free State accident victims

Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy is expected to pay a visit to the two remaining patients who were involved in an accident that claimed the lives of 10 people in the Free State province earlier in the week.

The Minister will visit the patients on Monday at the Pelonomi Hospital.

The crash occurred on Wednesday at approximately 03:00 on the N6, approximately 15km south of Reddersburg towards Smithfield.

It involved a Mercedes Benz City to City bus carrying 33 passengers and a Volvo Truck-Tractor

“Other crash victims who had been admitted at Pelonomi and Smithfield hospitals have since been discharged,” the Department of Transport said on Sunday. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 03/09/2025 - 15:25
112 views

9 March 2025

Minister Ramokgopa to engage North West on electricity challenges

Location: News

Minister Ramokgopa to engage North West on electricity challenges

Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, will lead an intergovernmental engagement with all municipalities in the North West province do discuss electricity challenges and introduce effective interventions.

He will be joined by Premier of the North West, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, during Monday’s meeting.

This initiative follows the Minister’s recent engagements with municipalities in Limpopo and the Free State, where similar discussions were held to address municipal electricity issues.

“This effort is in line with the seventh administration’s commitment to fostering a functional local government capable of fulfilling its obligations through a coordinated effort involving all three spheres of government.

“Several municipalities are currently under Section 139 intervention, necessitating oversight from the Provincial Executive. This situation stems from longstanding municipal debts, including both arrears and current accounts owed to Eskom for electricity distribution.

“An integrated approach is essential for developing a sustainable intervention plan that focuses on medium to long-term solutions. Some strategies may require financial reconfiguration, particularly in light of the country’s ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts,” a joint statement by the Ministry of Electricity and Energy and the North West provincial government said.

The outcomes of the meeting aim to formulate collaboration, which will ensure that municipalities can meet their financial obligations to Eskom and ensure reliable electricity access to all. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 03/09/2025 - 15:10
18 views

9 March 2025

President Ramaphosa pays tribute to Dr Gomolemo Mokae

Location: News

President Ramaphosa pays tribute to Dr Gomolemo Mokae

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the brutal killing of medical doctor, author and black consciousness intellectual Dr Gomolemo Mokae.

“The brutality inflicted on Dr Gomolemo Mokae and Pam Mabini – and recently, Imam Muhsin Hendricks – demonstrate that violent criminals have no regard for the lives of South Africans, including selfless and caring citizens who become known publicly for the contributions they make to the upliftment and protection of fellow citizens,” the President said on Sunday.

Mokae, 61, was found dead in his Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria, home on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, after he had last been seen on 28 February 2025.

He had spent many years caring for patients in Ga-Rankuwa and was experiencing health problems of his own when he was shot in his bed.

“President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the family, friends, neighbours, patients and comrades of Dr Mokae who was a former national spokesperson of the Azanian People’s Organisation and a founder member of the Socialist Party of Azania,” the Presidency said.

In addition to his medical practice, Dr Mokae published several books and wrote for television as a proud exponent of his mother tongue, Setswana.

Mabini stood up for women who experienced gender-based violence and made it her mission to ensure the police and courts brought perpetrators to justice. She played a vital role in supporting victims in the Timothy Omotoso alleged rape and trafficking case.

She was shot outside her home on Friday, 7 March, in Gqeberha.

nosihle
Sun, 03/09/2025 - 14:42
8 views

8 March 2025

Eskom focuses on bringing new capacity onto the grid

Location: News

Eskom focuses on bringing new capacity onto the grid

Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, has reiterated the power utility’s commitment to bolstering electricity generation as it focuses on bringing new capacity online and completing its maintenance.

This comes after Eskom announced the implementation of Stage 3 loadshedding from Friday until Monday due to unplanned losses and to replenish emergency reserves over the weekend while high levels of planned maintenance continued.

“Our focus remains on bringing new capacity. Kusile unit 6 is going through its last stages of commissioning and we expect it to be synchronised to the grid by 18 March. We should have at the end of March and April Medupi unit 4 also synchronised

“It is the combination of maintained units and the new capacity that will essentially form the backbone of our entry into the winter period and the winter period plans to be announced at the end of March,” Marokane said on Saturday in Pretoria during a media briefing.

Eskom is currently executing its maintenance plans ahead of the winter season to ensure a more stable electricity supply and reduce the risk of loadshedding.

“We will see that path starting to taper as we go into the end of March and April. The one issue that requires our attention is the clinical finish in the execution of the maintenance. As we return units back from maintenance they need to come in and stay online.

“In the last week, whilst we have done the maintenance, a number of units slipped in terms of their due dates of returning from the outages. We saw slippages of about 1500MW that are adding to the unplanned unavailability,” he said.

The unplanned slippages happened in conjunction with big units such as Koeberg being off the grid for more than a week.

“We also experienced sub optimal coaling activity due to the intense weather conditions in the vicinity of Kusile from Thursday evening into Friday. It is on the back of this that our attention is really shifting towards getting back the tight discipline of executing our maintenance and getting the return and reliability of the units from the maintenance window to be such that we do not have this massive slippages adding pain to us,” Marokane said.

Eskom saw the unplanned capability loss factor rising from around 15 000MW in the middle of the week and on Friday it was at 18 000MW. This is what triggered the implementation of stage 3 loadshedding on Friday.

“Since than we returned 3 200MW by Saturday morning so quite a number of units came back, including two units at Kusile which returned last night at 10pm and this morning further units came back to give us the reduction in the unplanned losses.

“We are now sitting at about 4 500MW, on Sunday, we expect about 750MW capacity to come back. The remaining 2 800MW is expected to be returned by Monday morning. This will include the return of Koeberg unit 2 that has been on breakdown since last Sunday. Our plan is to finish the maintenance, get value of out of it and ensure that slippages do not occur,” the CEO said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sat, 03/08/2025 - 14:06
105 views

8 March 2025

Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

Location: News

Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to assure residents of the City of Johannesburg that government is determined to move with urgency to resolve the service delivery challenges facing the city.

The President was addressing residents during a stakeholder engagement at the Johannesburg City Council Chamber on Friday afternoon.

Earlier in the day and on Thursday, the President together with the National Executive conducted an oversight visit to Gauteng.

“As a resident of Johannesburg, I share the concerns that have been expressed here about the deterioration of services and infrastructure.

“Over the last two days, members of the National Executive have engaged the leadership of Gauteng and the City of Johannesburg on the challenges they face and the work that is being done to address them.

“We are committed to ensuring cooperation among the three spheres of government to urgently attend to these challenges. We may well have said so in the past, but the enormity of the challenges and the problems compels us to now say we are going to redouble our efforts,” he said.

The President highlighted some of the challenges facing the city, including deteriorating road infrastructure, the closure of public facilities like the Johannesburg Library and delayed or unfinished infrastructure.

“Through the Department of Cooperative Governance, National Treasury and the Provincial Government, we are supporting the City of Johannesburg to stabilise its governance and financial affairs.

“We need to ensure that we unlock service delivery backlogs and begin to address the backlog in infrastructure provision,” President Ramaphosa said.

Rejuvenating the city

Turning to the establishment of the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group announced earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa explained that the group will be made up of not only government bit also stakeholders.

A similar approach has been applied in KwaZulu-Natal with the establishment in 2024 of the eThekwini Presidential Working Group to turnaround the fortunes of Durban and position it as an investment and tourism hub.

“Our learnings in eThekwini make us confident that this is the correct model to address Johannesburg’s many challenges.

“Over the last month, the Presidency has engaged the City of Johannesburg, the province of Gauteng and some social partners on establishing a Presidential Johannesburg Working Group.

“There has been broad support from everyone engaged for an intergovernmental mechanism that will strengthen cooperation and leverage the expertise and resources of all stakeholders in the City of Johannesburg,” he said.

The working group’s first focus will be on governance and financial sustainability.

“We will work to strengthen the internal governance and financial management of the city by restoring institutional capacity. The second focus will be on water and sanitation and the third focus will be on electricity.

“We will work to stabilise critical infrastructure by improving maintenance, increasing funding and focusing on the whole value chain.

“The fourth focus will be on public spaces and beautifying the city. Specific interventions will include fixing road infrastructure, restoring street lighting and traffic lights, and enhancing waste collection throughout the city,” President Ramaphosa said.

Focus will also be placed on improving law enforcement and urban security, accelerating housing delivery, launching an inner-city rejuvenation project.

“We have set out a timeframe to achieve all this. It should not be an elongated timeframe. This Working Group will report on a regular basis to the Ministers and myself.

“We cannot act as if it is business as usual. We must recognise the crisis before us and meet it with the resources, timeframes and accountability measures required,” he said.

The President called on stakeholders to join hands with government to turn the city back to its former glory.

“Government cannot do it alone. The involvement of broader stakeholders in the Working Group will not only hold us collectively accountable to the targets set, but accelerate our efforts.

“In the coming weeks, my team will be engaging business, labour, civil society and academia regarding their respective roles in the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group.

“Johannesburg is a city of resilience. It is also a place of innovation and…a place of great hope. Let us move forward with determination, unity and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sat, 03/08/2025 - 11:38
61 views

7 March 2025

Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Location: News

Minister Tolashe assures smooth transition to Postbank Black Cards for grant beneficiaries

Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has assured social grant beneficiaries that her department, in collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), is working tirelessly to resolve any challenges they may encounter while swapping their SASSA Gold Cards for the new Postbank Black Cards.

In a video posted by SASSA on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, Tolashe reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring an efficient and secure social security system for all beneficiaries.

“As a department of Social Development and SASSA, we want to assure you that our commitment to provide efficient social security system is still our top priority. We are doing everything in our power to resolve all the concerns and difficulties that you have,” she said.

The Minister emphasised that efforts are being made to assist all beneficiaries using the SASSA Gold Card before its expiry on 20 March 2025. She urged recipients to replace their cards with the Postbank Black Card, or switch to a bank of their choice to avoid any disruptions in receiving their grants.

“We are working tirelessly to ensure that all our beneficiaries currently using the SASSA Gold Card are assisted speedily, efficiently and with dignity,” Tolashe stated.

She also reassured beneficiaries that the department is strengthening and monitoring its systems to prevent cyberattacks and safeguard personal information.

“Despite the challenges that we face today, we care about your wellbeing, and it is our responsibility to serve you with dignity and respect, as we continue to pay the right social grant to the right person at the right time and place, always,” she said.

To ensure that no one is left behind and all beneficiaries that need to replace their cards are reached, Postbank announced in a statement on 27 February 2025 that it has increased the number of tellers servicing all the existing sites across the country.

Postbank has also added more places to replace cards. Postbank black cards can be obtained from select outlets of major retailers that include Pick n Pay, Boxer, Usave, Shoprite and Checkers.

In addition, Postbank has started rolling out Spar stores nationwide to replace cards, providing an additional 234 places for beneficiaries to get cards.

A shortened USSD number which beneficiaries can use to look up sites has been introduced to improve their customer experience. To look up sites, beneficiaries can follow this process:

Dial *120*355#
Reply with (1) to continue
Reply with the province number (numbers 1 to 9 representing all provinces)
Reply with the number of the municipality. Then all the card replacement sites under that municipality will appear. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:35
452 views

7 March 2025

US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA

Location: News

US withdraws from Just Energy Transition partnership with SA

South Africa says it notes the United States’ decision to revoke the US International Climate Finance Plan, which had led to the withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition (JET) partnership with South Africa.

Last month, US President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14162 to revoke and rescind this plan.

According to reports, this also means the immediate withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement designed to combat climate change by curbing global greenhouse gas emissions.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said President Trump’s recent actions have affected the policies aimed at advancing South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JETP).

“As a result, effective immediately, the US has announced the termination of its membership of the International Partners Group (IPG) for JETPs South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam,” the department explained.

With the United States withdrawal, the department said associated financial pledges are also withdrawn.

“Grant projects that were previously funded and in planning or implementation phases have been cancelled.”

However, DIRCO said the country remains committed to implementing international agreements, including the decisions taken at the historic Paris Agreement.

“South Africa and other international partners will evaluate the implications of the US withdrawal from the JETP,” the department said,

During a parliamentary discussion regarding the United States’ decision to reduce funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa should not lament this change. Instead, the country should view this situation as an opportunity for transformation.

“We must act in unison to mitigate the negative impact of the USAID cuts. We must seize this moment to reconceptualise our global system and ensure that our domestic imperatives serve our nation efficiently and sustainably,” Lamola told Members of Parliament (MP).

He highlighted that the United States is South Africa’s biggest trading partner in the world after China.
South Africa is home to 601 American companies, accounting for 143 000 jobs.

The Minister told MPs that in 2023, bilateral trade between the US and South Africa equalled US$ 22 billion, with the United States being a significant agricultural export destination for South Africa.

South Africa exports platinum, motor vehicles, reaction initiators, ferroalloys, citrus, jewellery, nuts, chemicals, wines, engines, turbines, and ships and boats to the United States.

According to Lamola, about 22 South African companies are currently invested in the United States, providing about 6 900 jobs. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:46
336 views

7 March 2025

SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

Location: News

SA to champion women’s leadership on International Women’s Day

As South Africa continues to make significant strides in women’s representation in government, greater efforts are urgently needed to ensure women’s leadership extends to corporate and economic sectors.

The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities made the remarks ahead of the global commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) on Saturday, 8 March 2025.

International Women’s Day is a worldwide celebration of women’s achievements, as well as a powerful call to action for gender equality.

The day serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions women make to society, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges they continue to face in various spheres of life.

This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action” encourages the global community to intensify efforts to implement strategies, allocate resources, and initiate activities that will positively impact the advancement of women everywhere.

The WID 2025 coincides with the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women and the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) (“Beijing +30”).

The year also marks the final five years of the 2030 United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the urgency of advancing gender equality globally.

The department emphasised that with the right action and support, positive progress can be made for women across the globe.

“South Africa continues to make strides in women’s representation in government, with women making up 46% of Parliament and 43% of the Cabinet. However, greater efforts are needed to ensure women’s leadership in corporate and economic sectors.

“More work should be done to accelerate equal representation, as women remain underrepresented in high-income sectors and continue to face significant wage gaps. To bridge the gap, there is a need to demonstrate actions to stronger policies on financial inclusion, access to credit, and workplace protections for women,” the department said on Friday.

The department highlighted the importance of equipping women with the necessary tools and resources to start and grow businesses, manage household finances, and invest in their futures.

These efforts will strengthen their voices in decisions affecting them, and also help narrow gender gaps in financial access, while endorsing broader social and economic equality.

In alignment with the Government of National Unity's (GNU) priorities for the 7th administration, which has identified rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth for all South Africans, the department emphasised that these priorities align closely with the World Economic Forum's (WEF) agenda for women’s rights.

The WEF focuses on closing gender gaps in economic participation, pay, and leadership.

“The South African Constitution champions the achievement of equality, including gender equality, throughout its provisions, particularly section 9 of the Constitution, which creates a basis for the obligation of the public sector, the private sector and civil society to eliminate and remedy gender, race and social inequalities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 12:57
171 views

7 March 2025

No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

Location: News

No NGOs under investigation for money laundering, terror financing

The Department of Social Development has refuted claims made in recent media reports alleging that 50 South African NGOs are being investigated for terror funding and money laundering.

In a statement on Friday, the department clarified that there were no such non-profit organisations under investigation.

“The Department of Social Development has noted attributed statements in recent media reports that 50 South African NGOs are being probed for terror funding and money laundering. The department would like to put it on record that there are no such NPOs,” the statement read.

The department said that it convened a symposium with NPOs and other stakeholders to make the NPO community aware of South Africa’s obligations with regard to the implementation of anti-money laundering and the counter terror financing measures.

The aim of the symposium was to strengthen consultation mechanisms between government and NPOs. It focused on deficiencies in SA’s measures to protect NPOs from exploitation to fund terrorist organisations as identified in the 2021 FATF Mutual Evaluation.

The FATF reiterated its findings relating to these deficiencies in its 2024 Mutual Evaluation Follow Up Report on South Africa. This is available at file:///content/dam/fatf-gafi/fur/South-Africa-Follow-Up-Report-2024.pdf.coredownload.inline.pdf.

Delegates were informed about the recently launched NPO TF Risk Assessment that was undertaken to assess the nature of potential threats and inherent vulnerabilities that may potentially put NPOs in South Africa at risk of terror financing abuse, which can be found at https://www.dsd.gov.za/index.php/documents?task=download.send&id=565&catid=86&m=0.

“However, at no point during the symposium were any allegations made that NPOs in South Africa are implicated in terrorist financing or money laundering, or that the South African authorities are investigating any NPOs for involvement in these activities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:25
140 views

7 March 2025

South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

Location: News

South Africa’s G20 Presidency to benefit all

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka says South Africa’s G20 Presidency is aimed at ensuring resource-rich nations and communities in places like Limpopo can benefit equitably from their mineral wealth.

“In the midst of global geopolitical tensions and rising protectionist, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will champion cooperation, collaboration and partnerships between individuals, groups, peoples and nations,” Moraka said.

Speaking at the G20 Community Outreach event at the University of Venda in Limpopo today, Moraka said strengthening partnerships and expanding dialogue with a wide range of actors is important to collectively shape the G20’s approach to issues requiring international cooperation.

“South Africa will therefore also host a G20 Social Summit, prior to the Leaders’ Summit, by expanding outreach to communities beyond the 13 official G20 Engagement Groups,” Moraka said.

Moraka said during South Africa’s Presidency, there will be more than 85 in-person meetings throughout the country, including five meetings in Limpopo.

“We encourage the people of Limpopo to become more involved in these processes. We have been asked, and rightfully so, what benefits does the G20 Presidency brings to South Africa

“Tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from some of the world’s largest developed and developing economies are expected to arrive in South Africa over the year-long Presidency.

“In addition to many Ministers, the Heads of State and Government of more than 40 countries will attend the Leaders’ Summit in November 2025,” the Deputy Minister said.

Moraka said the G20 Presidency was without a doubt a mammoth task, requiring considerable personnel and resources, by most accounts, this was the largest national project that South Africa has ever undertaken.

“This project is expected to have significant economic benefits for South Africa, notably for the tourism, transport, restaurant, entertainment and hospitality industries, with global visibility in all nine provinces.

“There is also significant opportunity for South African provinces and cities to promote their cultural, heritage, tourism and innovation, but also an opportunity to demonstrate South Africa’s technological, industrial and commercial advances across various sectors,” Moraka said.

A number of direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created during South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

“It therefore goes without saying that the support of all South Africans in telling a good story and highlighting our successes is critical if we are to leave a permanent G20 legacy for South Africa, and the whole of the African continent.

“It is important for us all to work in synergy and in cooperation and partnership, more so in a fractured world filled with conflict and destruction. As much as we are excited to host the first G20 Presidency on the African continent, we are also cognisant of the enormous task that is before us,” the Deputy Minister said.

Also speaking at the same event, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said she was delighted to welcome esteemed members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, business leaders and all distinguished guests to the historic occasion, the first-ever G20 community outreach to be held in the province.

Ramathuba said the engagement was an opportunity to strengthen ties, advance collaboration and ensure that global economic policies translate into meaningful opportunities for local communities.

“It is also a symbolic gesture, a recognition of the role that provinces like Limpopo play in shaping the broader economic landscape of South Africa and the African continent,” the Premier said.

As the only African nation represented in the G20, South Africa carries a profound responsibility in ensuring that the voices of developing economies, particularly those in Africa, are heard on the global stage.

“The G20’s focus on economic growth, trade, investment, climate action and digital transformation resonates deeply with developmental priorities in Limpopo.

“We understand that global economic policies have real, tangible effects on the lives of ordinary people, and it is our duty to ensure that these policies translate into meaningful opportunities for our communities,” Dr Ramathuba said.

Lutendo Luvhengo, a third year student at the University of Venda told SAnews that although she had little knowledge about G20 and South Africa’s G20 Presidency, she hoped that South Africa’s hosting of the G20 meetings would benefit ordinary people.

“I believe that our country’s economy is going to improve. The guests coming to South Africa some of them are going to invest in our country and that will create more jobs,” she said.

Luvhengo was confident that the G20 meetings were going to be successful.

Echoing same sentiments was Israel Marema, first year Bcom student who said the G20 meetings were “investments in the country”.

“This is going to reduce the level of poverty by creating more job opportunities,” he said.

Today’s launch of the G20 Outreach Programme forms part of a series of initiatives aimed at fostering wider public dialogue and participation in South Africa's G20 Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 15:53
3 views

7 March 2025

Investors urged to join Global Investor Call

Location: News

Investors urged to join Global Investor Call

National Treasury has encouraged investors, who are interested in participating in the upcoming Global Investor Call (GIC) after the tabling of the Budget, to submit questions through the respective Goldman Sachs or Investec representatives.

The Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, will table the 2025 Budget to Parliament on Wednesday, 12 March 2025.

“The Republic of South Africa, rated Ba2 (stable) by Moody’s Investors Service Incorporated, BB- (positive) by S&P Global Ratings and BB- (stable) by Fitch Ratings (Hong Kong) Limited, has mandated Goldman Sachs International and Investec Bank Limited, alongside their empowerment partners, Vunani Capital Partners and Cinga Capital, to arrange a non-deal Global Investor Call (“GIC”) scheduled for Wednesday, 12 March 2025 at 16:00 SAST / 14:00 GMT / 09:00 EST,” National Treasury said on Friday.

The GIC will be led by National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, and will be supported by senior National Treasury officials.

It said the GIC will be followed by a series of in-person fixed income investor update meetings in Cape Town on Thursday, 13 March 2025, and Friday, 14 March 2025, and in Johannesburg on Friday, 28 March 2025.

“Investec will be arranging logistics. Details of in-person fixed income investor update meetings internationally will be communicated to the market in due course.

“There will be an open Q&A session during the GIC, and the Republic of South Africa also welcomes the pre-submission of questions through the respective Goldman Sachs or Investec representatives,” National Treasury said.

Representatives can be contacted as follows:

Goldman Sachs International:

Name: Rumbi Wasterfall
Email Address: rumbi.wasterfall@gs.com
Contact details: +44 207 774 6671

Investec Bank Limited:

Name: Leanne Large
Email address: Leanne.Large@investec.com
Contact details: +27 82 494 8804

Link to pre-register (Recommended):

https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=367d0b60&confId=78851

Link for the audio replay (only available following the GIC): https://www.netroadshow.com/events/login?show=367d0b60&confId=78851

Following the tabling of the 2025 Budget, a presentation will be available on National Treasury's website:

https://shorturl.at/1VyCh

During the Budget the Finance Minister will to outline the financial, economic and social commitments that government would prioritise in its planned expenditure as part of the 2025 Budget Speech.

He will indicate the allocation of financial resources to the national government’s priorities outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the State of the Nation Address. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:28
274 views

7 March 2025

Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

Location: News

Multi-stakeholder symposium reaffirms commitment to remove SA from FATF grey list

After thorough deliberations, a multi-stakeholder symposium -- hosted by the Department of Social Development -- has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving outstanding action items on Recommendation 8 and ensuring South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

The three-day symposium was convened by the Department of Social Development under the theme: "Together Countering the Financing of Terrorism in the NPO Sector-Promoting Cooperation and Compliance with the Global Standards”.

In a statement on Friday, the department said the symposium was convened to focus specifically on FATF Recommendation 8 and was attended by representatives of government, civil society, Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs), financial and non-financial regulators, and NPO funding lobby groups.

“Since its grey listing by FATF in February 2023, South Africa has already made notable progress in complying with the global standards on the prevention of money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing,” the department said.

According to National Treasury, which is the lead department in addressing the overall FATF recommendations, South Africa is now left with one reporting cycle to address the remaining six action items.

Three of the outstanding action items relate to demonstrating a sustained increase in the investigation and prosecution of complex money laundering, terror financing and unlicensed cross-border money or value transfer services.

FATF Recommendation 8 focuses on NPOs and the potential use of the sector as a vehicle for money laundering and terror financing. FATF has rated most of the action items under Recommendation 8 as partly addressed.

“Although FATF has made it clear that not all NPOs are at risk of being used for money laundering and terror financing, the department convened the multi-stakeholder engagement to inform the NPO sector of progress, create broader awareness, share best practice and promote better understanding of FATF global standards for NPOs,” the department said.

The symposium underscored the critical importance of civil society and NPOs in South Africa, as they complement government and the private sectors in providing essential services to the most vulnerable groups and communities in society.

Some of the key highlights from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium are as follows:

· No one size fits all approach. Not all NPOs are vulnerable to money laundering and terror financing, as some only operate within the borders of South Africa. FATF’s risk-based approach should be applied to high-risk NPOs.

· Data sharing across government and with the private sector/funders. The multi-stakeholder engagement symposium highlighted the need for data sharing agreements among government departments, law enforcement agencies and the private sector to assist in early warning and detection of suspicious activities by high- risk NPOs.

· Overregulation of the NPO sector. While the NPO sector welcomed government’s proposed initiative and measures to comply with FATF’s global standards as part of implementing Recommendation 8, they cautioned against overregulating the sector, which has the potential to stifle community activism and active citizenry envisaged in the National Development Plan.

· Expansion of outreach and educational programmes. One of the key issues emerging from the multi-stakeholder engagement symposium is the need for the Department of Social Development to conduct more outreach in collaboration with other regulators such as the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the National Lotteries Commission (NLC).

· Establishment of an independent NPO regulator. It was recommended that the Department of Social Development should consider setting up the NPO Directorate in its current form as an independent NPO regulator. There was general consensus that the department cannot play a dual role of being NPO funder and regulator at the same time.

· Continued commitment beyond FATF’s grey listing. All participants agreed to continue collaborating and improving coordination, including harmonisation of funding requirements.

The symposium closed with a declaration signed and adopted by all participants to combat all forms of money laundering and terror financing in South Africa.

Delivering closing remarks, the Acting Deputy Director-General: Community Development, Mpho Mngxitama, expressed gratitude to all participants and commended them for their unwavering commitment to exit South Africa from the grey list, as well as improve transparency and accountability in the NPO sector.

“As FATF’s onsite visit approaches, it is now all hands-on deck to expedite action on all
outstanding items to exit South Africa from the grey list on record time,” the department said.

NPO Online Solution

The department seized the opportunity to demonstrate the NPO Online Solution, a self-service portal that will enable members of the public to register new NPOs, check status of their application, submit annual compliance reports and voluntary deregistration, amongst others.

A key feature of the new innovative and streamlined DSD NPO Online Solution is that it will be linked to the portals of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).

It was agreed that a webinar will be organised to pilot the online solution before national roll out in the new financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 13:59
96 views

7 March 2025

Nelson Mandela Bay unveils backyard dwellers programme

Location: News

Nelson Mandela Bay unveils backyard dwellers programme

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has officially unveiled the much-awaited programme to register backyard dwellers for RDP houses.

Launched in KwaLanga, Kariega, on Wednesday, the Backyard Dweller Registration Programme is an effort by the municipality to give special focus to the plight of backyard dwellers, who have been raising what they called a ‘neglect and prioritisation of illegal land occupiers’.

Lobishe explained that the programme will be rolled out by the offices of ward councillors, where backyard dwellers will be registered on a list that will be audited to check whether requirements are met.

“The qualifying residents will then be included in the housing waiting list. Those who have met the requirements and qualified will be informed,” Lobishe said.

Lobishe said the registration programme responded to the plight of backyard dwellers.

Reflecting on the government’s decision to build RDP houses, the Mayor emphasised the aim to restore dignity to previously disadvantaged individuals.

To ensure accurate data collection, she said 200 field workers have been appointed across the city, with four assigned per ward.

Lobishe also commended backyard dwellers for their patience and discipline in refraining from land invasions, saying “this is the time to reward you”.

“The fact that you have stayed in your backyard rooms or houses for all these years, while some have decided to invade land, is not taken for granted. From now we will be moving with speed to complete the registration process in three months’ time.

“We are also engaging the other spheres of government to consider us in their budgeting so that our housing delivery can include backyard dwellers. We accept that we should have done more for you, and appeal that you work with us, as we start this journey,” Lobishe said.

Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Thembinkosi Mafana, said the commencement of the programme is part of the key deliverables for the directorate.

"We have set ourselves key priorities, taking care of the vulnerable, elderly, women, and child- headed families, and addressing the imbalances of the past like backyard dwelling, asbestos-roofed homes and informal settlements,” Mafana said.

One of the prospective backyard dweller beneficiaries, Nosipho Jicelo, said they are happy that the time has come for backyard dwellers to be taken care of.

"Some of us have been living as backyard dwellers for more than 20 years, patiently waiting for us to be considered. We hope that this programme will yield positive results this time around,” Jicelo said.

The registration process will start on 6 March 2025 until the end of June 2025, with a stringent verification process in place. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:53
129 views

7 March 2025

KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

Location: News

KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for the swift arrest of the perpetrators involved in the rape and murder of Sphindiwe Hlongwa, whose body was found dumped near her home in Mkhazini, south of Durban.

According to reports, Hlongwa, 31, was found strangled to death, with visible signs of assault and a swollen face after being dropped off by a Renault Kwid near her home on Monday evening.

Ntuli has condemned Hlongwa’s killing, describing the act as “barbaric, inhumane, and an attack on the dignity and safety of women” in the province.

“We are deeply horrified by yet another grotesque act of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is one of many murders linked to the scourge of GBVF in our province.

“However, working with the SAPS [South African Police Service] under our Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, we will make sure to treat every case as an emergency, one case at a time. We will never give up and we will do everything to defeat GBVF,” the Premier said.

Ntuli urged anyone with information related to the crime to come forward and assist the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.

International Women's Month commemoration

Meanwhile, Ntuli will on Saturday lead a delegation of the Members of the Executive Council (MEC) to commemorate International Women's Day at the KwaMashu Civic Centre.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. Observed annually on 8 March, the day is a reminder of the contributions women make to society and the challenges they continue to face. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:54
50 views

7 March 2025

Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Location: News

Police seize illegally harvested abalone worth R1.3m

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the recovery of over 4 300 illegally harvested abalone valued at approximately R1.3 million and the arrest of 11 people allegedly involved in illegal poaching operations.

From 28 February to 2 March 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Cape Town Marine Unit, and other enforcement agencies successfully disrupted a large-scale illegal poaching operation involving approximately 50 snorkel divers at Robben Island.

"The scale and brazenness of this illegal activity are deeply concerning, but the professionalism and dedication of our enforcement teams have once again demonstrated our unwavering commitment to protecting South Africa’s marine resources.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to all those involved for their tireless work in preventing the exploitation of our marine biodiversity,” the Minister said on Friday.

This operation follows a series of successful interventions in the last month, where law enforcement officers intercepted four significant abalone-related cases in a single day.

On 13 February 2025, coordinated operations in Glencairn, Muizenberg, Grabouw, and Botriver led to the seizure of thousands of illegally harvested abalone and the arrest of multiple suspects.

The Minister has reiterated government's firm stance against illegal fishing and called on the public to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.

"We will continue strengthening our enforcement capabilities and working closely with our partners to ensure that those who exploit our natural resources face the full consequences of the law. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every officer and partner involved in these operations. Their hard work and sacrifice are crucial in safeguarding South Africa’s marine biodiversity,” George said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:58
39 views

6 March 2025

G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

Location: News

G20 Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year to enhance tourism and economic growth

The upcoming Group of 20 (G20) Leaders’ Summit at the end of the year is anticipated to significantly enhance the tourism sector’s contribution to economic growth and job creation.

This is according to the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, who shared this perspective while responding to a parliamentary question about his department’s strategy to leverage South Africa’s G20 Presidency to create sustainable benefits for the economy, particularly for small businesses in townships and rural areas.

“By hosting G20 meetings across all provinces, South Africa aims to achieve a considerable economic boost, attracting tens of thousands of delegates and support staff from major global economies to provinces throughout its year-long Presidency,” he told Members of Parliament (MPs).

South Africa assumed the Chair of the G20 on 1 December 2023, taking over from Brazil.

The G20 consists of 19 countries, along with the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), which joined last year.

This group brings together the world’s major and systemically important economies.

The Minister believes that this surge in tourism presents significant opportunities for South African provinces and cities to showcase their cultural heritage and tourism potential.

According to Lamola, South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is anticipated to be one of the largest national projects, requiring whole-of-government and society participation.

From 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, South Africa will host well over 100 in-person meetings across the country.

“Firstly, the G20 will boost South Africa’s tourism sector, increasing employment and allowing provinces to showcase their cultural treasures.”

The Minister highlighted that the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that South Africa’s tourism sector employed 1.46 million people in 2023.

This number is expected to increase to 1.7 million jobs soon, driven by a targeted initiative aimed at significantly boosting employment over the next five years.

He also mentioned that WTTC statistics showed that tourism’s direct and indirect contribution to South Africa’s GDP was 8.2% in 2023, with expectations to rise to 8.8% in 2024.

In addition, it also allows for a demonstration of the nation’s advancements across multiple sectors.

According to Lamola, the G20 meetings are anticipated to generate considerable economic benefits, creating many direct and indirect jobs during and beyond this period.

The Minister believes that Africa’s G20 Presidency offers an opportunity to promote inclusive growth, combat poverty, and ensure sustainable development.

“Ultimately, the high-level deliverables and priorities identified for South Africa’s G20 Presidency will benefit South Africa at the national, continental, and global levels.

“The G20 serves as a strategic platform for South Africa to lobby for policies aimed at advancing the three strategic priorities of the seventh administration.”

These include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State.

In addition, South Africa’s second priority under its G20 Presidency is ensuring debt sustainability for developing economies.

“In pursuing this, South Africa aims to see greater urgency in addressing the debt and solvency challenges many countries face, determining clear solutions to mobilise low-cost financing for development.

This approach will help reduce debt service costs for developing countries, including South Africa, thereby freeing up spending on essential services such as education, healthcare, and the infrastructure needed for economic development,” he told MPs.

Meanwhile, he said the nation seeks to leverage its G20 Presidency by promoting “harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and development.”

“South Africa calls for a G20 framework on green industrialisation and investments to ensure progress towards a grand bargain that adds value to critical minerals, particularly near the source of extraction.”

He believes that promoting the beneficiation and local value addition of resources at the source will result in a more additive rather than extractive relationship.

“As mineral extraction accelerates to meet the energy transition needs, the countries and local communities endowed with these rich resources must be the primary beneficiaries,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/06/2025 - 10:42
499 views